Gillian Ronan, restaurant owner

Are you a saver or a spender?

A bit of both. I like to save but I also like to invest my money. I have invested in a number of businesses mainly in the furnishings and interiors sector, and I have worked hard to make them successful. I know the value of money.

Do you shop around for better value?

Yes, I always check out prices and look for the best deal. I recently moved my health insurance to Aviva which saved a significant amount of money and, like everybody else, I buy lots of promotions in the supermarket and stock up on offers. My husband and two sons are regularly in the fridge so it’s a bit of a money pit! If I’m going to waste money, I’d rather blow it on a good bottle of wine than by being too lazy to shop around.

What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?

My most extravagant purchase has to be Town Bar & Grill, which I bought last year. It cost me my life savings and I am working hard now to convert it in to my best investment yet. I believe in value for money, and I have introduced a special express lunch menu two courses for €15.95. If anybody brings in this article, they’ll get a complimentary glass of prosecco with their lunch!

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

I’m an avid cyclist and bought a Cannondale bike. I cycle from Dublin to Wicklow at least three times a week and I also cycle for the NCBI (National Council for Blind Ireland), a charity which I support with my friend Sean Kelly.

Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?

I think it’s really important to support local business so personally I wouldn’t cross the Border to shop.

Do you haggle over prices?

I do when appropriate. I have haggled over the years for everything from property to clothes, and if it is done in the right spirit, I think it’s great. In the restaurant, we have a good relationships with our suppliers and we all respect each other. However, if I feel that a potential supplier is charging too much, then I would certainly haggle for what I feel is a fair price. I also think it’s right to haggle when significant volume and long-term business is involved.

Has the recession changed your spending habits?

Yes. I have cut back on lots of things from clothes to hair appointments but it hasn’t stopped me enjoying myself. A meal out with friends and family or meeting for a drink with friends is what I’d rather do now with my money.

Do you invest in shares?

Yes. Like lots of people, I bought bank shares that did not perform as one would have wished. I also bought property that is down in value.

Cash or card?

Card.

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?

The last thing I bought was some beautiful new linen for the restaurant. Customers really appreciate the details and I’m hoping it will turn out to be great value for money in terms of business.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

Yes, I saved up for two apartments which now are in negative equity because of the collapse in the property values.

Have you ever lost money?

Nothing major. I bought my house many years ago so I’m not in negative equity there – thank God.

Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?

I suppose buying a restaurant in the middle of the worst recession in living memory makes me a gambler, but I’m determined it will be a big win!

Is money important to you?

No, but I don’t like to be without it.

Best money saving tip you’ve ever heard?

Two-course lunch in the Town Bar and Grill Restaurant for €15.95! Beat that.

How much money do you have on you now?

Not enough!