Eamonn Casey is the general manager of Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa. An established hotelier with a hospitality career spanning almost 20 years, he is a graduate of Shannon College of Hotel Management, with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in International Hospitality Management & Business Studies.
Are you a saver or a spender?
I’m a well-considered spender and over the years I have developed a few good habits that serve me well. When I plan a holiday, I will set money aside in the months prior to cover the costs before I fly.
Do you shop around for better value?
I have a tendency to make occasional impulse purchases. A reduced price or special offer will very often catch my attention and that can result in purchasing things I don’t actually need.
What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
The home I purchased with my partner. It was not an extravagant property but it felt that way at the time.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
The Louis Copeland classic navy suit I am wearing today. Its excellent quality brings longevity, which is long-term value.
How did you prefer to shop during the Covid-19 restrictions — online or local?
Local and in person! I really enjoy the experience of shopping, and I am not keen on online food shopping. When I do food shopping, I am always on the lookout for new and interesting products. Also, quality packaging and good retail presentation really work for me.
Do you haggle over prices?
No. If I feel something is overpriced then I will not consider it. When shopping, I have a preference for supporting small local businesses. I tend to be a repeat customer and my loyalty has often been acknowledged by personal service and the occasional discount.
How has the Covid-19 crisis changed your spending habits?
During the pandemic, I learnt to live without occasional spending on clothes. When planning a holiday, I will always book direct, as by cutting out the intermediary you can get the best value. Also, the pandemic led me to support local Irish businesses.
Do you invest in shares?
Not in a conventional sense. My pension is invested across a number of well-managed funds.
Cash or card?
Card using my iPhone Wallet. In the past, carrying a wallet was cumbersome. Incorporating payment cards on to my phone eliminates the need for a wallet. Who would have thought?
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
Two mature topiary Buxus bushes from an excellent nursery in Kilternan. Gardening is hard work so, considering they took a number of years to grow and skill to nurture, I reckon I saw value. They look great in my garden so I think they were a ‘good buy’.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
When I set my sights on purchasing something, I tend to set money aside and work towards it as a goal. I will own my first Tesla electric car within the next year.
Have you ever lost money?
Thankfully not.
Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?
Is the occasional Quick Pick lottery ticket considered a gamble?
Is money important to you?
I have a healthy respect for money. As a teenager, I had a part-time job in a local hotel and I quickly learnt that my hard work paid dividends. From that, I enjoyed financial independence, but I also learned that cash is, as they say, hard-earned and too easily squandered.
How much money do you have on you now?
A €10 note that I have had in my business card holder for more than a week. These days I rarely use cash as using my debit card is quick and easy.
