Manchester Credit Union polls Bury shoppers on spending and saving
A poll by Manchester Credit Union identified 51 per cent of respondents as "big spenders" instead of "savvy savers."
The MCU gathered responses during three days at Mill Gate Shopping Centre last week.
With the help of the MCU's bee mascot, the team asked shoppers whether they considered themselves one of Bury's "biggest spenders" or "savviest savers."
In a close result, 51 per cent identified as big spenders.
Mandy Wilcock, chief executive of Manchester Credit Union, said: "It's been a brilliant few days, really engaging with local people about money matters in a fun way.
"While the big spenders won the vote, it was a close contest, and we spoke to many shoppers with a real passion for saving, too.
"On a more serious note, it's important we improve financial literacy in adults and children across the UK.
"As a lender with a long history of providing affordable financial services to the people of Bury and Greater Manchester, we're keen to invest in the local community and give them the knowledge to make good financial decisions.
"Getting people thinking about their families' needs and financial habits, and encouraging them to prepare for a rainy day, is all part of that."
A spokesperson explained: "Unlike a bank, a credit union exists solely for the benefit of its members.
"Without shareholders, all profits are returned to members as dividends on their savings and used to improve member services and the local community."
Ms Wilcock added: "Our family loan members have an average £111 in their savings account, and many of them are saving for the very first time.
"This is a great example of how we're building financial resilience and helping our members get ahead."
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The visit to Mill Gate Shopping Centre was part of MCU's wider community outreach, which includes the Bee Smart with Money roadshow for primary schools across Greater Manchester.
The roadshow involves a "fairy tale with a financial twist" designed to improve children's financial literacy.
Butterstile Primary School in Prestwich was the latest school to take part in the roadshow.
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