First off I should say that the LDS serves a valuable need. Training, and service both make our LDS valuable. The instructors I've worked with so far have all been great, and provide very valuable knowledge.
However the retail section of the LDS that I use IMO is typical of many. They price personal items like masks, fins, and snorkels 15-20% above MSRP. This is NOT just beyond typical street prices from places like ScubaToys, but beyond the MSRP. They then provide the student a 20% discount. The net result is that one pays MSRP or a bit below for personal items. My experience with the new divers in my OW class is that almost ALL students purchase personal stuff from the LDS. While there is nothing illegal in the way they do business, I feel the practice is deceptive.
I guess one has to take it item by item, and weight the various factors like what service may be included (like with a reg or BCD), is it important to try the gear fit (like with a wetsuit), and markup on an item by item basis. I've found that for many gadget type items like mask straps, reg bags, and lanyards LP pricing is not much better then the LDS...they are ALL HIGH
I have purchased a few items from my LDS, but the money I spend with them generally goes for training, or tank rental.
The LDS that I use is busy. They always have people shopping there, the pool generally has people using it, and their travel agency appears to do very well. I have zero issue with using other places to purchase equipment when the savings is good.
I paid under $200 for my mask, fins, snorkel, and boots. Most people in my OW class paid closer to $400, and a couple even more. When we start talking those differences, than I just can not go with the LDS.
Ron
JVM4.0:
Recently, my wonderful wife bought me a dive light. A Princeton Surge. She included the receipt, in case I wanted to trade for a different light ( I had made noises about and LED light). With taxes and all, she paid $42 for the light. Awfully nice of her.
Now, here's the rub.........I have noticed that places like Liesure Pro charge $29 for the exact same item. My LDS claims they keep track of internet pricing, and do their best to meet competitive pricing on popular items. I don't begrudge the fact that the LDS has to make money to remain in business, I love the idea of shopping locally. I just don't think they have to make all their profit on me.
So, what's your Point of Pain when comparing pricing between the LDS and the internet? My wife paid a 30% upcharge, over and above a "normal" markup on the product from the LDS. What is the difference YOU willing to pay for the priveledge of buying from your LDS?
