Question

Should a diver support a dive shop or shouldn't it be the reverse?

Answer 1

I've heard divers say support your local dive shop but when I stop to think about it they are businesses and as such should earn my business like any other business.
I can understand supporting certain events that promote conservation or clubs that promote the sport but I don't like being held hostage just to get my tanks filled.

Answer 2

It is a mutual relationship. My diveshop will refund my purchase no questions asked if I don't like my purchase. They will also stand behind everything they sell. You can't get that online. If I have a warranty issue they handle it for me. They will try to be as competitive as possible on prices. I can try any mask, fins, BC, or regulator in their pool at no cost before I buy. Yes, some products are cheaper online, but there is no customer service and most high end products are dated and from Europe. Good luck exchanging a BC because it does not fit. My dive shop goes the extra mile to make sure I'm happy with my gear (including annual service), in exchange I will support them with my business.

Answer 3

Ideally it should be a mutually supportive relationship.  I found a shop I like based on the owner and the people working there.  They share advice and we talk about diving issues all the time.  If you don't support them -- let them know how they're doing, what you think you'll be looking for in classes and gear, etc. -- they won't make it and you'll be looking for a shop perpetually.  Remember, they service the stuff that keeps you alive while you dive!

Answer 4

I manly support one dive shop, because their the only shop doing the type of diving I want to do. Deep technical diving, cave diving and rebreather diving. If I find a piece of equipment that they don't support then I'll shop another dive store. For the most part they have means to reach out to other stores to purchase what ever you need.

Answer 5

It goes both ways.If the dive shop doesnt support you, they will not be in buisnesss very long. If you dont support your local dive shop they will not be in buisness very long. There are good and bad dive shops. Dive shops along the coast have a lot of traffic and dont have to bend over backward to please every one. On the other hand an inland dive shop has to work very hard to obtain new buisness.

Answer 6

I always try to support local, but this is to a certain level. I have a local dive shop that I love, but sometimes prices are better somewhere else I buy it there, also if they are rude and do not support the local community and tend to not go to those places. Like I said I have a local shop around me that does clean ups and have loved the people that work there. What about you, do you support local or tend to go to the bigger guys?

Answer 7

I think you should support each other. As a business they need you to stay open. As a diver, you need a business you can trust with your gear. You need the employees to help answer you questions about the different gear available. I gave been with the same dive shop since 1994. He knows how I like to dive and makes great suggestions on what I may need. Safe diving

Answer 8

Support the dive shop, so long as they satisfactorily offer you the products and services that you need. If not satisfied, then consider alternatives - just like any other merchant or service provider.

Answer 9

I personally am in  support of My local dive shop. My dive shop owner  is in the Midwest and as such is not bringing home millions of dollars or year fact if anything it’s a difficult endeavor. He has always been supportive of me already and has provided me numerous items to test and train with. In addition as a dive master he is always giving me extra discounts. Diving is not just about the best price for the best deal. In my opinion is about relationships and helping each other out to support our only a bigger cause, but to  enjoy the sport and socialize