Big box store gets into scuba

**MgicTwnger** · 12-23-2007, 05:51 PM

Recently a big sporting goods store in my part of the US (I'm not naming names) has gotten into scuba. Until now they catered to hunters, campers, and so forth. They are carrying a full selection of gear, air fills, as well as "certification opportunities". Exactly what that means the web site does not explain.
Next comes the hard sell:Scuba 101 one hour fun classes are an easy, no-charge way to introduce yourself to the excitement and mystery surrounding scuba diving. Hosts of the classes will answer the many questions you may have on this great sport.

I think this pretty well answers the question of what will become of the LDS: the same thing that happened to other small, independent merchants.

**dalehall** · 12-25-2007, 10:21 AM

You think?? I'm not so sure about that. Those "big box stores" offer a minimal amount of choices and expertise when it comes to any specialized type sport. I think the LDS will survive due to the fact of them being "experts." You can't get killed while playing baseball, so any store can sell me baseball gear. But, if I'm going to do something that I could die doing, I want to talk to people that know their stuff and not some minimum wage dude that works there in the summer in between semesters.
I know those stores (like Dicks) hire people to work in certain areas. A golf guy to work the golf area, a hunter to work the outdoor section, but you are talking one or two people maximum and a choice of one or two brands in the store. So, you are very limited in advice and merchandise. I think the LDS will be ok, IMHO. Of course, my LDS is the Divers Supply World Headquarters, so I KNOW they will be ok. But, I think a lot of other places will be fine also.
I am interested in who the store is that's gotten into it.. Can you PM the name?

**MgicTwnger** · 12-25-2007, 02:02 PM

PM sent.

I guess only time will tell. Sure, some LDS's will survive, but think about it: how many potential divers will be walking through a big box (or see their ad), check out the scuba section, and think "Wow, I can get everything here, and cheap!".
Speaking for myself, as long as the warranty will be honored and the dealer is reputable, I shop strictly for price, and 90% of the time that means the internet. For training, I go to instructors I know and respect irregardless of any shop affiliation.

**Scuba Mama** · 12-26-2007, 07:32 PM

Most LDS have been facing increase challenges with internet shoppers. As with any business the LDS have to face the challenges head on and adapt an change or face disappearing. This is the same with most businesses.

I think a good comparison is Hardware stores. I will go to my local ACE over going to the big box. Why, service is the reason. I also know if I have a problem with something it will be taken care of fast. I will pay more for the sevice the value is worth it to me. Big Box I am lucky to see someone with in the first hour. I will however, if I am working a large project go to big box because of cost of materials. The ACE just doesn't carry the quantity.

I think most stores will be fine. They have and will always face new business challenges, it how they respond to them. And, no I would not trust my life to a big box.

Scuba Mama

**MgicTwnger** · 12-26-2007, 07:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Scuba Mama

And, no I would not trust my life to a big box.

Scuba Mama

But are you trusting your life to the company that manufactured the gear or the one that sold it to you?

**Scuba Mama** · 12-26-2007, 08:47 PM

OK, I will be clearer. I already don't like the service from big boxes, their is no way I would trust the training. What type of service desk do they have for repairs, how good is the gear? Will it last or is it really cheap snorkel gear?
What type of air banks do they have, are they certified or is it the same gear they use for tires? I know what my shop uses, I know how often the gear is inspected.

I might trust a big box to work on a saw to sharpen it, more then likely I would take it to the local hardware again service.

Basic rules most forget, you get what you pay for. Most people remember this after that bargain item breaks. Had they spent a few dollars more they would still have and use the item.

For me the value you get in smaller location is service its key. I have never gotten this at a big box and don't think I ever will.

Its not to say there are not people who will think its a deal and cheap and try learning that way. Most will find they will be ill equipped to take on the demands of scuba.

Scuba Mama