LDS vs on-line purchase?

[tech3324]

Not sure where this question belongs, but thought I'd try it here.

A dive shop somewhat near me carries an expensive name brand tech item that is also available on-line, no shortage of supply. Because I wanted to try this item on for fit, I made a special trip to this particular shop. They have the item, and I want it, but I balked at buying because their price is 20% over MSRP. Looking on-line the same item is 20% under MSRP. I'd like to support this shop and I'd pay full MSRP right now, but at 20% over I feel a little like I'm being gouged for no apparent reason.

Anyone else ever encounter this, and how did you handle it?

 

[Bob DBF]

Tell them what you just told me and see what happens. When I am looking at a large purchace I always talk to the LDS, sometimes we do business sometimes not. I'd give them the online price and ask what they can do, you might beat MSRP.

Bob
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I may be old but I’m not dead yet.

 

[cgvmer]

Since you used their services for sizing, I would minimally give them the chance to pay what you are willing to pay. Once you provide them the option of msrp, if they don't agree they don't deserve to get the business. NO business owner can ignore the realities of the internet and if they do they will close.

 

[jon1]

I encountered this with two recent purchases of mine. My wetsuit was $30 more at my LDS than on Leisurepro. I tried it on there and since i am known by name there, I bought it. I feel that if you try something on or express intrest to the shop in buying it and buy it somewhere else, thats not right. If you just see it online and buy it, thats fine. You dont owe your shop anything. If they are unwilling to go down to even the MSRP, it doesnt sound like they should get your business anyway.

 

[vjanelle]

I haven't paid the MSRP price on a large order... ever. Ask them to cut you a deal if you're buying more than one thing at a time, and mention that you can find it cheaper online... Just factor in the price of shipping if they offer you a discount, especially if they have the item on hand.

 

[DeusVerto]

I look at it this way; I tip for good service at a restaurant or hotel, or even when I get my hair cut. Surely these are smaller purchases than SCUBA gear generally, but the principle is the same.

If you get good service from your LDS, you should allow them to earn a living on the value they add. Yes, that's worth 10-20 percent extra, depending on your circumstances. Isn't it?

 

[Bogie]

I would always give the LDS a chance to come close to the internet market. I bought my name brand high end BC/W from a LDS. I will always go back and give them first shot. It is good for the LDS because every time I visit my local stores I'm always buying something.

 

[Tortuga68]

Did you know their price before you tried it on?

Anyway, offer them MSRP or whatever you're comfortable paying

 

[leabre]

A dive shop somewhat near me carries an expensive name brand tech item that is also available on-line, no shortage of supply. Because I wanted to try this item on for fit, I made a special trip to this particular shop. They have the item, and I want it, but I balked at buying because their price is 20% over MSRP. Looking on-line the same item is 20% under MSRP. I'd like to support this shop and I'd pay full MSRP right now, but at 20% over I feel a little like I'm being gouged for no apparent reason.

Based on your town, would this happen to be the dive shop on the ventura harbor by chance? I've noticed the same thing when passing through eager for an impulse purchase on a dive computer. I knew what was MSRP but they marked it up 20%... as if!! Luckily I went guage mode shortly after and ended up spending $300 instead of $2,100

 

[redacted]

Last time I bought a new car, I went to the local dealer to do a test drive and decide on options. I then shopped around for best price. Last stop was again the local dealer to see if he could match the best price.

Why should more expensive scuba purchases be any different?