Dive Shop Relationships

[Tortuga James]

That is a tough one. It is hard to walk away from any business, even bad business, when you are trying to get started and need every trip you can get. I would just have a heart to heart and tell them the way it is and hope they see your value to their business. If not, you are wasting your effort anyway and you should market to business that makes sense. Hopefully the friendship survives.

 

[Rickelpickel]

Thanks for the words of wisdom Capt. James. Thats just what I'll do..

 

[tekdvr2]

So let me get this straight.....Any one that patronizes this shop and goes out on your boat... the shop wants a commission? That's not a commission that's a shakedown at 25%.
It's a fine line on fees. You have yours posted (brochure, internet)..everyone knows it's $80 a dive. If the shop organizes the dive (ie: books the entire boat) they get a discount. You should not be giving back cash to any shop! Always discount!
You can't write off a kickback!
If partial lets say 4 divers with 2 walk on's ($5 off a head on their 4). They only have 4 divers. No break.
You have to know your break even limit and profit line.

I have found that after a while, most people will book direct after they been out a few times and like the operation and dive sites.

tb