Money: Play the swap shop game to pocket the profits ...

WHEN it comes to cutting everyday costs it pays to play the field - blindly sticking to the same brand or store can be bad for the wallet.

Dermott Jewell, Chief Executive of the Consumer Association of Ireland, believes the major problem shoppers in the Republic have is being too loyal.

"People could save a lot of money by looking around. Sometimes you get the best bargains at the least expected places," he says.

Supermarkets, for example, come top of the pops when it comes to buying CDs.

The latest Westlife release may not seem so cool when bought alongside baked beans and toilet roll, but it could leave extra cash for other groceries. "

"A few months ago we did a survey comparing the price of compact discs in Tesco and music shops. Tesco came out far cheaper, said Mr Jewell."

Every branch of the supermarket chain in Ireland now sells the top 10 CDs for just pounds 11.99 - at least a fifth less than in the more trendy music shops.

"The problem is most CD buyers would never think of looking in a supermarket. They seem conditioned into searching in the traditional music stores," said Mr Jewll.""The way to save money is to open your mind and take a chance.

"People should not be afraid of the unknown or untried. If they investigated they might be pleasantly surprised at what there is available for them."

Switching banks could also help keep consumers in the black.

Many people belong to one of the older banks which they have been with all their life and rarely go anywhere else for any financial dealings.

This means they miss out on some of the deals available from outfits that have recently set up.

Banking new boys Tusa offer the cheapest mortgage available in the Republic, 3.8 per cent APR, and 17.5 per cent APR on its credit card.

"The same is true of phone companies,"" said Mr Jewell.

"Very few people have switched from Eircom even though there are many potential savings with some of the less established rival operators.""

Motorists could also accelerate their savings if they looked about for cheaper fuel.

Often driving for a few extra minutes will reveal a station off the main road which is selling petrol at a lower price.

Costs can also vary greatly between supermarkets.

"People often take a liking to a store and so always go there to shop," said Mr Jewell.

That is fair enough, but they might find that if they looked at a few other supermarkets from time to time they could save several pounds on everyday goods."

But, he said, there can be a cost in looking for price cuts.

"Often what you are paying for is convenience.

"For instance, if you booking tickets and are prepared to turn up and buy in person you will save a few pounds by avoiding the credit card fee, but many people prefer to save time by buying over the phone.

"It all comes down to how you prioritise. There are savings to be made, but it involves a bit of effort."BILL HOPPING: A change of bank, supermarket or service provider could put more cash in your pocket. So before you buy your regular brand or visit your favourite shop again, it may pay to make the extra effort and just take a look at the competition or a less conventional supplier.

TAKE CARE OF THE PENNIES ...

A recent survey by mortgage provider VirginOne revealed some of the surprising lengths to which people will go to save money. They included:

71 per cent would redecorate their home rather than pay a professional;

23 per cent would re-use wrapping paper;

11 per cent would cut unfranked stamps off envelopes to use again;

10 per cent would hoard unwanted items to give to friends and family as gifts;

Only six per cent would consider remortgaging as a way of saving money

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