Smart investors can get shopping, hotel discounts

Shareholders fortunate enough to benefit from special discount schemes offered by publicly-quoted companies are probably aware of the various schemes available, but it may be worth looking through your portfolio just in case you are missing out on some perk.

In the hotel sector, both Ryan and Jurys offer 10 per cent discounts to all shareholders regardless of the amount of shares held.

The offers usually apply to room rates and holiday packages within their hotel chain covering accommodation and food, but not drink. There are generally no restrictions on bookings, but you are advised to make reservations well in advance of busy weekends.

On a more restricted basis, Smurfit shareholders, with more than 1,000 shares, can avail of special rates at the K Club in Co Kildare.

The rates have been introduced in the past two years and apply from November to March, from Sunday through to Thursday. They do not apply during Christmas, New Year's Eve or weekends.

Those with fewer shares can, however, still get a glimpse of the exclusive K Club as part of the company's annual shareholder's golf competition. The lucky shareholders selected to play at the club are randomly drawn out by the company.

Meanwhile, Irish Continental Group offers discounts on its travel services to travellers holding 100 shares. They can avail of discounts of 20 per cent off the cost of travel on passenger and car ferry services to and from Britain and a 10 per cent discount on its summer direct service to and from France. The discounts may also be available on certain inclusive packages from Irish Ferries.

And for shoppers, Arnotts offers a 10 per cent discount to its shareholders with 900 or more shares. Those with shares held in a nominee account can also avail of the discounts once ownership has been established.

This discount is generally available throughout the newly expanded store in Arnott's own departments and in most of its concession stores.

While most investors are well satisfied with a healthy dividend, regular trips to annual general meetings can also yield a few goodies.

In the drinks industry, shareholders in Guinness and Cooley are given a sample of the companies' products to take home, while Waterford Wedgwood gives out either a piece of glass or Wedgwood every year.