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Author Topic:   West Marine Prices

minimontauk posted 04-17-2003 04:54 PM ET (US)
I live on Cape Cod, and the only major boating store locally is West Marine. I don't have much basis for comparison, but the prices seem very high. Are there any good mail-order outlets that would be cheaper, even including the shipping and handling? I have a bunch of first time (hopefully mainly onetime) purchases to make, lifejackets, flares, dock and mooring lines, bottom paint, etc., and I am getting a real sticker shock. Money saving suggestions appreciated.
Capt_Tidy posted 04-17-2003 05:16 PM ET (US)
In my area, West Marine does offer discount prices to commerical operations ie: "Port Supply" discount. And often you can order West Marine products via a retailer who has a WM discount card... hopefully these retailers pass on the savings.
Simply ask WM about how to get discounted rates.
Or try internet sales. I recently saved a hundreds on sailing instruments via an EMAIL retailer... a little more risk maybe but lots of savings.
Dick posted 04-17-2003 05:32 PM ET (US)
Try the link below. This is a first class operation, I buy most of the accessories for the marina from them.
Once you get into the site click on consumer.
www.landnsea.com
Dick
hardensheetmetal posted 04-17-2003 06:28 PM ET (US)
Mini-
I am having the exact experience that you are, I am outfitting anew boat and have a list worth about $2,500.00 (lines, fenders, paint, some small electronics, etc). I took the four catologs I had at home and made a comparison of between them. I found West and Boat US (same company now) to be the worst. I liked Defender Industries in CT. Boatworld was OK on some items, but not the lowest. There is a place in Maine, Coastal Marine Supplies, that had some really good pricing on some items, but had a limited selection on some (paint). If you like Wests' and it is convenient to you, go to a competitors website and place your order, but don't send it in (don't confirm the order), instead, print the order sheet, and take it to Wests', they should match all the prices.
Dan
andygere posted 04-17-2003 06:34 PM ET (US)
Go to http://www.shorewaymarine.com and order their catalog. Never go to West Marine without it. West will match prices on anything in the catalog, and Shoreway's are the lowest I've found. LHG turned me on to this tip.
lhg posted 04-17-2003 06:41 PM ET (US)
Always try Shoreway Marine, in Berlin NJ. These fellows are the originators of discount marine sales, with their original operation of Goldberg Marine, in NYC. Nobody beats their prices. I rigged my entire 25 Outrage from them, and still use them. 800-443-5408.
Their mail order service is great.
Cabela's and Bass Pro are also pretty good.
Overtons can be good on some things.
West Marine is a nightmare. Never use them unless you are desperate. Always bring in someone else's catalog for price matching, which they do, but hate. Other customers standing in line behind you always wonder what's up, and it makes them look bad.
dscew posted 04-17-2003 06:55 PM ET (US)
I've found West Marine's prices ridiculous enough that I refuse to enter their stores. If I have to order on line or mail order, I'd rather take the risk than support a ripoff.
andygere posted 04-17-2003 07:16 PM ET (US)
A lot of my West Marine purchases are of the "need it now" type, and getting them to price match gets me the thing I need in a hurry, at a fair price. They are also headquartered in my county, so I am supporting the local economy to some degree, and I think there is some value to that. The folks in my local store are used to seeing me with my Shoreway catalog, and they don't beef about it at all. They know I am a regular customer, and the store still makes money on every sale. The other reason I do buy a lot there is that shipping on small items often drives the cost up so high it becomes impractical to buy mail order. I do buy from Cabela's and Boaters World when convenient, but West often has what I need in stock when I want it, and I can hold the thing in my hand and decide if it's what I really want before I buy it. I don't think they are the evil empire, they just have a premium pricing strategy and they can get away with it because they are the dominant retailer in many markets. Be smart, take advantage of their inventory and sign up for the free West Advantage club and you get some of that money back once in a while. I don't want to sound like a West Marine cheerleader, but you can easily get the convenience you need and pay the prices offered by the other guys.
ducktwin posted 04-17-2003 07:56 PM ET (US)
I have found this outfit to have great prices. They are a surplus liquidator so their product line can be hit and miss.
The service is also quite good.
www.surplusunlimited.com
Tims_Tub posted 04-17-2003 08:10 PM ET (US)
I used to work for E & B Discount Marine, before they were bought by West I remember very well what we were charging for certain common items. I recently got back into boating and on my first visit to West Marine I was astounded at the pricing. Many of the items were double the price that they were only 7 years ago. The "rule of 7's" would say that that is a 10% annual increase, far more than the average 3% inflation.
RWM posted 04-17-2003 08:25 PM ET (US)
On Cape Cod you can usually get a better price at Boater's World. They've got a shop across from the Cape Cod Mall opposite Filene's Basement.
P.S. I order from Shoreway when I can.
doobee posted 04-17-2003 08:54 PM ET (US)
Boater's World in Hyannis will give you competitive pricing. You can also get good prices from Wal-Mart in Wareham. If they don't have what you need Atlantic Boats is an independent dealer nearby which offers competitive prices, and they offer the added advantage of knowing what they're talking about.
For those of you who are buying, or have recently bought a boat, ask your dealer for a Port Supply new boat owner's card. This will give you wholesale pricing for a limited time at any West, E&B, and Boat US.
Another way to get the best price from West is to shop for your best price through catalogs, online, wherever, and ask West to match it.
Remember, whenever you mail order something, returns become a hassle, and added expense. Your local retailer, or dealer may cost a little more, but you'll generally get better service and convenience.
BW23 posted 04-17-2003 09:30 PM ET (US)
I've found these guys to be outstanding.
Their catalog is the best $4.00 I've spent in years.
http://www.boatfix.com
Happy savings.
John from Madison CT posted 04-17-2003 09:32 PM ET (US)
I was in West Marine and Boat US today and found some products, namely Tempo items, to be selling ABOVE the Tempo retail price.
I only buy there when I absolutely have to. BoatersWorld is cheaper 95% of the time, and sometimes, on items like Wax, batteries, bilge pumps etc, they are up to 40% cheaper.
John
whalernut posted 04-18-2003 08:07 PM ET (US)
Try www.c-mesales.com c-me marine sales has some good prices and a catalog out of Buffaslo,NY. I have noticed their prices going up some the past 2 years, but still the best prices I have found and they don`t charge Hazmat shipping prices on Hazmat items, and they have the cheapest prices on them such as bottom paint,etc. Jack.
jstachowiak posted 04-18-2003 10:48 PM ET (US)
One more: www.surplusunlimited.com
Hobie1981 posted 04-18-2003 10:56 PM ET (US)
Doobee: A friend just bought a new boat. What exactly is this Port Supply, new boat owners card that allows you to buy at wholesale prices at West etc.
He can just ask his dealer for this card and the dealer will know what he's talking about ??
I've never heard of it..
Hobie
TightPenny posted 04-19-2003 05:10 PM ET (US)
West Marine will match a written price on their merchandise.
I just print out the best on line price I can find for the item I want. They have matched it everytime I asked. This included fishing Tackle.
I got them to knock about $16 off a Penn 113H, and over $30.00 off a matching Penn roller guide Senator Rod.
I did the same thing when I outfitted my 2000 Montauk. I saved hundreds of dollars from their listed prices. I also saved half the sales tax by buying from their Perth Amboy store which is in an Urban Economic Zone.
dscew posted 04-19-2003 06:07 PM ET (US)
Why not boycott West Marine since everybody agrees they are ridiculously out of line. Why not support those who have reasonable prices in the first place? They're the ones who deserve the business.
triblet posted 04-19-2003 06:38 PM ET (US)
Why not boycott West? Because in my case,
there isn't much else. There's a Boater's
World, but the people don't know much but
how to run the register, and their prices
are pretty much the same. SOME of the people
at West know what they are talking about, and
it doesn't take long to figure out who's who.

Chuck
aubv posted 04-19-2003 10:25 PM ET (US)
Personally, when it comes to boating the first place I go is West Marine. They usually have remnants of rope at a good discount, have SALES, a boat outfitting discount and a rebate program. It is a rare occurrence that they don't have what I need. You just have to know how to shop, as in go with some regularity, it is amazing what you can find on sale. I purchase a pair of Gil sailing pants last year for less than $70, the best $70 I've spent in some time, by the way. They have match priced a number of items for me. I purchased a demo dinghy at a great price last year and have returned items without a question. Can I get some things cheaper, yes but how much is time worth? I love people who will spend 20 dollars of gas and 5 hours of their time to save 3 dollars. Plus, I much prefer to purchase an item that I can see and ask questions about. The catalog is free and an education in and of itself. The staff is always helpful and knowledgeable. This is worth something. I'm glad West Marine isn't Wal-Mart
I don't get it, this is like the people who come to CW and whine that the site is this or doesn't have that.
hardensheetmetal posted 04-20-2003 06:58 AM ET (US)
Its funny, I was in a local boat yards marine store yesterday (Norwalk Cove Marine) and got thinking about Wests and othetrs meeting prices. I work in an industry where we normally make fun of other contravctors for underbidding jobs, and frequently bash others for ruining the industry for all by low bidding.
While I don't like West Marine for several reasons (including their high prices) they are the ones setting the standard on pricing. If it were the other way around, all the small Mom and Pop ships stores would be bitchin up a storm and crying that Wests and Boat US were ruining the industry. From a business stand point, they are smart, the unknowing drot coming in green will pay their premium price, but they can still atract the seasoned boater who has a clue with price matching.

Dan
witsendfl posted 04-20-2003 10:01 AM ET (US)
aubv/hardensheetmetal,
This arguement has risen a few times in the past year and I always seem to want to comment. I agree w/ you comments but would like to take it a step further.
Some people have NO CLUE what it takes to keep a LARGE business going like West Marine. They probably have a VERY liberal return policy like Home Depot. Take a $500 gas grille home for a weekend use it then return it and say it does not work. Your family reunion was a blast and it did not cost you a dime for that grille. That happens probably more than we know at these large retailers, and it costs money.
People use West Marine for the same reasons as Home Depot. Chances are if you need it is there, and if they can't find it they know someone who does. I get a little offended w/ people that are so damn cheap. These locations for the most part are RETAIL outlets not discount houses. Time is worth money, and driving all over town to save a few bucks is not smart. Advertizing, mass mailings of catalogs,marketing,training etc. take money. It does not come free. Many of the contributers on this site could really use a small lesson in running a small business. IT DOES'NT come free. Making .10 on a item that costs a $1.00 does not cut it.
I challenge some of you to email or write these so called RIP OFF Joints and tell them your feelings.
Guys don't take offense to this post. Shop your best deal, but please understand a little of what it takes to run a business.
witsendfl JimK
andygere posted 04-20-2003 03:12 PM ET (US)
One more reason I shop at West: They donate 2% of pre-tax profits to local charities and community organizations. Do the mail-order houses do the same?
dscew posted 04-20-2003 03:14 PM ET (US)
There's no reason to be 40% higher than their cometitors on any item. Reasonable profit is great, but not gouging.
John from Madison CT posted 04-20-2003 07:54 PM ET (US)
I give a huge thumbs up to: www.boatfix.com
I bought my Tempo fittings at $18.88 vs. $29.99 at West Marine. That is a huge savings. Also, Boatfix charges actual UPS shipping prices. They bill your CC after they know the shipping amount. Really a top notch organization. ( no sales tax either)
Also, regarding West giving 2% of profits of "charity", I find that am absolutely hilarious marketing schtick. They charge up to 40% more than other resellers, then give back 2%. What a joke.
If you care about "charity" why not save the 40%, then give 20% to charity yourself. To pay a huge premium so that they might give 2% back is not smart.
John
andygere posted 04-20-2003 08:05 PM ET (US)
John,
The point is that you never have to pay the 40% higher price, just bring your Shoreway (or other competitor?s) catalog and get it for their price. I really don't care where anyone shops, but I think it's silly to pay shipping charges when you can have it today for the same price. Obviously, the 2% is not my primary reason for going there, but it certainly makes me feel better about spending money there, especially since a lot of that goes back into my own community.
Also, pricing is relative. If you?ve ever had to buy some critical part at a local marina or in some remote waterfront town, you probably paid a lot more than the West price.
whalernut posted 04-20-2003 09:52 PM ET (US)
I really like the Price Matching part thing, I will take magazines in hand to West Marine more often!! The problem with Boatfix is their catalog prices are higher than their online prices, another reason for a printer, will they match online priceing? Jack.
peetmin posted 04-20-2003 10:34 PM ET (US)
I had an positive experience recently involving West marine. I had been shopping for the last two months with the intention of replaceing my aged Apelco radar. After considerable deliberation I decided to purchase The Furuno 1712. BOATERS WORLD had an advertised price (their spring catalog) $100 dollars cheaper than anyone else includeing the internet. I went to the store and when I asked about this I was told by the salesperson that this was a misprint and he would not be able to honor this price even though I was holding their catalog in my hand. I Knew that if I pressed the issue and raised my voice I would get my price. I was waiting on my tax return so I didn't press it. Instead the following week when my money arrived I showed up at WEST MARINE with my Boater's World Mag in pocket. It also happened to be their no tax weekend promotion. The sales girl told me she would honor the BW price but asked me if I thought that would be a bigger savings than the no tax weekend. I informed her that I hoped to take advantage of both. She told me that she couldn't do that. So I told her that I would be inclined to purchase From BW as they were cheaper to begin with. She agreed and allowed me both savings ($200 saved).By the way, the current BW catalog still has the misprint $1399 instead of $1499, someone's bound to honor it. pb
TightPenny posted 04-21-2003 10:02 AM ET (US)
Whalernut.
They will. I just print out the page showing what I found on line. They keep the copy, and I get the price.
Florida15 posted 04-21-2003 10:32 AM ET (US)
I am inclined to take my business to the store that gives me the best price in the first place, not when their back is against the wall and forced to "price-match." I've
gotten my best prices at Academy Sports and for some things , Boater's World. I find that Sam's Club has the best prices on cranking and deep cycle batteries.
peetmin posted 04-21-2003 12:18 PM ET (US)
I agree and that is what I was going to do until she agreed to honor the no tax promotion. That saved me an additional $100. Hell I can buy half a tank of gas with that... pb
dscew posted 04-21-2003 07:17 PM ET (US)
I agree with florida 15. My support goes to the business that gives a fair shake to everyone and makes a reasonable profit. Why bring in the prices from the fair-minded business so the rip off can make the profit?
peetmin posted 04-21-2003 07:33 PM ET (US)
I'm not sure if you didn't pay attention or your telling me you wouldn't have bought from the source that was $100 cheaper.Whatever the case you and florda can each send me $100 if it dosen't mean that much to you. Cause it would mean alot to me. Thanks for the tip...pb
whalernut posted 04-21-2003 09:15 PM ET (US)
Thanks TightPenny, I will try that one!! Jack.
doobee posted 04-21-2003 11:29 PM ET (US)
I happen to know for a fact that West's target profit margin is 40%. Some items sell above target, some items sell below target, but the average is 40%, and that includes the profit they make on shipping.
Last year their total income was @ $540 mil.
Their profit was @ $149 mil. That's @27% profit.
Sounds like West should be buying their stuff from Boatfix.com.
lhg posted 04-22-2003 12:21 AM ET (US)
West Marine's pricing policies are going to end up being bad for the boating industry, in general. Boating is already under considerable stress, with many simply no longer being able to afford owning a boat. Costs are out of sight. Look at engine prices alone. Exorbitant, near monopoly, prices by such West will further convince people they can't afford to be boaters.
Case in point. Currently, I need a set of simple 5/8" Bailer Plugs for my livewell.
Bass Pro: $2.99 for 2
West Marine: $7.99 for 2
Outrageous price discrepancies like that can only be seen as ripping off the unsuspecting consumer. In this case, my business, obviously, goes to Bass Pro.
I won't even give them the chance to price match, as that only helps them out with this dual, discriminatory, pricing strategy.
andygere posted 04-22-2003 12:36 AM ET (US)
This thread started with minimontauk saying that his only local marine supply outlet is West Marine, and he was frustrated with the high prices. Several of us provided him with a solution, e.g. price matching at West. Like mini, I have a West Marine 5 minutes from my boat (10 from my house) and no other alternative open on the weekends. My alternative is to drive an hour to San Jose to Boater's World. Obviously, we all want to pay the lowest price, and when time is not of the essence, we shop around and buy from the cheapest supplier. I'm a capitalist, and I can't fault West for what is a very savy business model. That doesn't mean that I'm willing to overpay; I'm not. I am, however, smart enough to get what I need at the lowest price, and with the lowest level of personal inconvenience. I couldn't care less if the guy in line behind me is getting ripped off. That's his problem, not mine. The bottom line: If you don't like West, don't shop there. If you do, be smart enough to use the price matching.
By the way, before West Marine opened, the only alternative on the Outer Cape was Nauset Marine. Those guys have really high prices.
doobee posted 04-22-2003 12:49 AM ET (US)
There are several examples of price discrencies in this thread.
The numbers I posted, which come from West's annual report, suggest that these examples are the exception, not the rule.
If you find a price that is way off, you ought to forward it to Randy Repass at West Marine. You might be surprised at the response you'll get.
lhg posted 04-22-2003 01:12 AM ET (US)
The last time I tried a price match in a West store, Deerfield Beach, FL, I was rebuffed.
I brought two Stoltz 12" keel rollers to the counter, West price $28.00/ea, and presented my Bass Pro catalog, list price $22.50/ea, for a price match. As usual, a big discrepancy in price. The guy said that if they price matched, West policy was to add in a "shipping charge", as the catalog does. In addition, local sales tax has to be paid. Just another of their scams, with no real saving at all. So I left them on the counter and walked out.
Even worse, I recently went to my local Boat US store, which was always a better deal than West. No longer. Everything in the store, by ADMISSION of the MANAGER, went up about 25% when West took over. So now, in my area, West has cornered the local market. There are no other alternatives. So I am back to mail ordering everything I need.
peetmin posted 04-22-2003 01:32 AM ET (US)
Its a matter of convience. I'm sure there is always going to be someone cheaper but how far do you travel to save 10%? How much is your time worth. In the case of internet sales or mail order the shipping cost can take the savings out of the deal. One other thing there is not much variation in price when it comes to electronics. Pick an item and spend a couple hours on line shopping for it. I spent two weeks shopping for the Furuno 1712 before taking it home. I ended up getting it for $1400 that includes tax. It would have cost $1620 tax included in that figure had I paid West's shelf price. I lose no sleep working two stores against each other's pricing. In fact I find it entertaining.
In regard to LHG, I agree there are some who are being priced out of this hobby. But for whatever reason the large chain stores are profitable which would contradict the idea that the industry is depressed. Someone is spending the money
Don't get me wrong I'm not waving a West Marine flag here, they were just the cheapest this time...pb
JHawkDrvr posted 04-22-2003 09:25 AM ET (US)
Not to beat a dead horse but I think we all should advise West Marine that we will do our shopping online if they don't control their pricing. Can you say monopoly?! They have strategically gobbled up all of their competition. I recently bought a coupler to use my marine radio antenna for my stereo (made by Shakespeare). I don't recall the exact price but Boaters world was $39, Boat US was $49 and West was $55! It's in their catalog as such. I don't feel that we (the consumer) should have to ask them to price match. They should do better market analysis before pricing their items.
TightPenny posted 04-22-2003 09:52 AM ET (US)
It is amazing to note the commentary that has arisen on this thread. Everyone is bashing West Marine and their pricing.
It is clear that most of those who posted in the bashing manner are not in business themselves, and are clueless as to what it takes to make a living from a business. Life is much easier when someone else writes the paycheck with your name on it.
Businesses are not charities. Business are legal entities which are intended to make a profit. There is a tremendous cost in keeping inventory. Fortunately, I don't have to pay for inventory, my business is Engineering, and my inventory is what is in my head, but still my overhead sometimes can choke me.
West Marine is in business because they are profitable. As I and others have indicated, they will price match for educated consumers, and from my experience I have never had a problem with them. Of course I am not a stranger to them, and never demand, but politely ask.
How much are you willing to pay to get what you need? West Marine generally has what I need, are conveniently located, so I will pay their price for the normal stuff, since I can walk out the door with it in my hand, and not wait for the UPS guy to show up at the door in 7 working days.
For those of you who do not agree with the West Marine pricing, the solution is simple. Don't shop there. Spend your money elsewhere, shop on line and wait for the UPS guy, but please stop whining about that which you cannot change.
Florida15 posted 04-22-2003 10:13 AM ET (US)
PB, I don't blame you at all for buying at West since they gave you the no-tax deal.
100 bucks is nothing to sneeze at. I was just saying under normal circumstances I'm going to go with the business that prices fairly from the get-go.
TIghtpenny, the other businesses are making a profit and doing just fine with their pricing, so why does West find it necessary
to price their merchandise so far above the
others ? Their stores are not showplaces. I don't see where they would have any more overhead than any other store. I've been in the local West store once and found no reason to go back.
Kelly posted 04-22-2003 10:17 AM ET (US)
This reminds me of a story a friend of mine told me. He had a small grocery and produce market years ago. A man came in and said, "Why are you charging $0.69 a pound for tomatoes, the store down the road only charges $0.59 a pound." My friend said, "Well, I guess you better buy them at the store down the road." The man said, "But they don't have any." My friend said, "Well, if I didn't have any, I could price them at $0.49 a pound."
I heard it said once "An unconscionable price is the price that no one will pay."
I am generally not happy with the customer service at the West store closest to my house, but it is up to them run the store the way they see fit and up to me to purchase as I see fit. I would be disapointed if they closed, because usually they have what I need and are fairly close.
Kelly
Cpt Quint posted 04-22-2003 10:23 AM ET (US)
One compliment for my West Marine. When you go into the store the employees know boats. When I go into Boaters World the manager was the assistant manager in the dress shirt department at Hects the week before.
You get what you pay for.. in areas where you need advise, West Marine normally has employees with a certain skill level.
If price is it I found this site shopping for tempo motor paint and its 1/2 the west marine price!!www.outdoorsuperstore.com
PSW posted 04-22-2003 10:34 AM ET (US)
Try shopping at this place. They are marinewholesale.com great place and more stuff than you can imagine. Prices are extremely low also. They are located about 20 minutes from me and the owner is a good guy. If there is something you need he will find it and get you a good price.
PSW
fester posted 04-22-2003 11:53 AM ET (US)
A friend of mine owns a small marine store. He has indicated that over the past two years his business has nearly doubled. He attributes this mainly to customer's frustration with West Marine. Prices are too high and the lack of knowledgable people working at West Marine. My biggest problem with West Marine in addition to the prices is people working in the stores. When I go to a marine store, I want a salesperson who is knowledgeable in boating who can tell me how to fix my problem or explain how to use a product sold in the store. It seems like West Marine employees are unable to do this. I'm willing to pay a bit more for something in a store if the salesperson can tell me what to expect from what I am buying.
John O posted 04-22-2003 12:39 PM ET (US)
Tempo 27 Gal fuel tank
West Marine 189.99 plus shipping
Bass Pro 99.00 plus shipping
$90.99 is a huge difference
Just ordered one from Bass Pro. Total 111.94
with a rush delivery to arrive at my door in 4-6 days. West Matine does not stock this size in my area.
bgraham10 posted 04-22-2003 01:04 PM ET (US)
Whoever recommended BOATFIX.COM, thankyou! I just saved alot of money by getting my faria volt/hourmeter gages there. I saved over 35 bucks on two gages compared to other online and local stores.
whalernut posted 04-22-2003 05:37 PM ET (US)
JohnO, that is a smoking good price for that tank, wow!! I was thinking $109.99 is a good price for an 18 gallon Moeller tank, you got me there :) I can`t use a 27 gallon tank, or I would buy one at that price pronto!! Jack.
John O posted 04-22-2003 08:14 PM ET (US)
Whalernut,
I was happy with the price. It made the decision between Pate and Tempo easy. While I like the pate look with its Desert Tan color and fuel gauge I am on a bit of a budget these days after repowering and could not pass on the Tempo.
I made sure I was specific with the customer service rep at Bass Pro and cross referenced the Tempo part number.
whalernut posted 04-22-2003 09:18 PM ET (US)
Jim, I do no one of the companies had the Tempo 17.5 gallon for $98.99 at one pint, let`s hope they don`t send you that one? I really wish I could fit that 27 gallon tank in my Currituck, but alas the 18 gallon Moeller is tayler made for under by drivers seat!! If the 27gal. Tempo truly is $99, everyone here should get one that neads a Montauk gas tank right now :) That is such a great price, was that a sale price? Jack.
John O posted 04-22-2003 10:25 PM ET (US)
Whalernut,
go to the Bass Pro shops web site and the Tempos are listed with price.Everyday price.
Bayouwhaler posted 04-23-2003 01:23 PM ET (US)
Basicly West Marines prices are very high but they usually have everything at our location. If you have time to shop then shop elsewhere or order it online. I usually only use them when I don't feel like making trips to 2 or 3 places. Good luck
prm1177 posted 04-23-2003 02:05 PM ET (US)
Having worked many years in retail, I know a bit about retail. Store that offer big discounts need to have high volume in order to make a decent profit. To generate high volume requires turning over each item in inventory frequently. Looking at my local West Marine outlet, I see a lot of specialty items that probably don't turn too often. This goes a long way to explain their margins. Large inventory=higher costs. I don't mind shopping at West Marine prices occasionally, because I know they will usually have what I want in stock. For high ticket items, the Internet is where it's at.
Morocco posted 04-23-2003 03:07 PM ET (US)
My favorite West Marine story:
On Christmas Eve day I went in to buy something, when I checked out the lady at the register said, "Merry Christmas, here's a little something for being a customer," and she handed me a register receipt with a "$10 Discount, Happy Holidays" banner on it.
I thought that was nice, and put it in my wallet. Went away for the holiday, got back to the boat January 2nd. Needed a couple of small things, so walked over to West (they are 200 yards from my slip -- very convenient) got the parts and presented the $10 off tape.
Guy shook his head and said: "Sorry, expired."
"What?"
He flipped it over -- it was good for ONE WEEK!
Nice, huh? I explained to him how easy it was to turn something positive into a negative, but he just shrugged.
I still go there occaisionally for convenience, and when things are on sale, but generally they are behaving like the Oil companies and pricing not because of costs and profits, but because they can.
lhg posted 04-23-2003 03:30 PM ET (US)
Just this weekend:
Starbrite Non-skid Deck cleaner, great for cleaning a Whaler's floor:
Walmart: $4.85/bottle
West Marine catalog: $8.00/bottle (65% higher)
And I'll bet that West is a bigger overall buyer from Starbite than Walmart. So there goes the quantity discount theory. West simply functions, on everything they sell, on exorbitant markup. The public will eventually wise-up, and the place will be out of business. This kind of pricing is not sustainable over the long run, and others will steal their business. Look at United Airlines.
andygere posted 04-23-2003 05:03 PM ET (US)
Larry, if Wal-Mart carries it, chances are they are the largest retailer of that product, bar none. They are also getting it cheaper and on better terms than West or anyone else. Wal-Mart has incredible market power (4,392 stores and revenues of $246.53 billion to West's 257 stores and $530.6 million), and is well known for opening stores and using predatory pricing to drive the locals (hardware stores, fabric centers, nursury/landscape centers, tackle shops etc.) out of business, then raising their prices once the competition is gone. There's no way you can make a fair comparison since Wal-Mart is the dominant retailer in just about every sector they do business in. If you want to take issue with retail business practices, you need to look no farther than Wal-Mart
As far as West's business strategy, if their prices are too high, a competetor certainly will certainly come along and undercut them. So far that has not happened where I live. In my town, they are the cheapest of 3 marine retailers (the other 2 being mom and pop local shops), but the only one open on Sundays and evenings. Hey, I get mad when they charge me $3.99 for a couple of waterproof wire connectors, but only when I forget to bring my competetor catalogs. I am happy when I need something in short order and know I can get it right away. I buy from lots of retailers, rather than being loyal to just one. Each has advantages and disadvantages, and as consumers we are lucky to have so many choices.
ufish posted 04-23-2003 06:08 PM ET (US)
One more vote for "boatfix.com". Recently bought a pair of heavy duty stainless steel VHF antenna mounts for $25/ea. West Marine's price is $49.99/ea. I love the West catalog as a reference but rarley buy from them.
Smithson posted 01-12-2008 03:21 AM ET (US)
I have worked for West Marine and much of what they sell is marked up 400 to 600 percent with the exception of electronics. As an employee I was able to purchase items about 10-20 percent above cost. Now that I am no longer an employee I would not purchase from them due to pricing.
Larry posted 01-13-2008 08:51 AM ET (US)
To West Marine's credit, they have a very liberal return policy. Try to make a retrun to a mail oreder company. I was very unhappy with a p.o.c marinepro oil changer, boat fix refused to take it back. How much is your time worth to call for a return autherization, rebox, drive to the post office wait in line and pay shipping both ways? At West I can just walk in, and get a no questions satisfaction refund-somestimes without even the orginal receipt. Kudos to them for that. I still compare prices. With sales, West can be cheaper than walmart, which is a zoo and has no selection and no service.
contender posted 01-13-2008 02:44 PM ET (US)
West Marine (in the Ft Lauderdale area) is to high in price, I go there as a last resort, maybe because there are so may places to purchase marine stuff down here the prices vary so. Also the West Marine in Ft. Lauderdale has become more of a marine clothing store. But, like I said the only thing down here is you can count on is that West Marine will have the highest prices.
mdono posted 01-13-2008 06:02 PM ET (US)
I'll admit that I've not read this entire thread but jumped in to have a look.
Last year I was waiting in a West marine for a cashier. The door to the back office was left open and I could see on the wall a spreadsheet detailing sales, costs $GP and other stuff. Margin for that particlar quarter was 42%.
No wonder we think they are high in price when compared to other retailers.
M
deepwater posted 01-13-2008 08:51 PM ET (US)
I have read this thread and if ya dont like the prices,, Than Make it yourself,,Fabracate it ,,modifiy it ,,Make it work or do without,, If its got to be perfect or OEM than Pay the price and be done with it ,,Take better care of your stuff and you wont have to replace it so often ^@^
macfam posted 01-13-2008 10:55 PM ET (US)
Last year I joined Cape Cod Boaters Coop. They are located just off the Otis rotary in Bourne on Cape Cod. They're in a small warehouse.
I just give these guys a call at 508-563-1330, and tell them what I want. They provide a catalog like West and Boat US.
THEY DELIVER next morning at your door for FREE!!!
I just bought a Jabsco spotlight, w/remote dash control. Very nice. SAVED $100 dollars over West Marine. That's a substantial savings!
I've bought a 54 qt Igloo cooler, Fortress anchor, pennant line, as well as other things. Next day service. No shipping fee, and they are very knowledgeable.
Also bought enough shrink-wrap (26'x 45') for less than $100.
If anyone is around the Cape Cod area, I highly recommend them.
Kingsteven18 posted 01-13-2008 11:19 PM ET (US)
I look for and find many of the items I need very reasonably on E-Bay.
AZdave posted 01-14-2008 02:17 AM ET (US)
I may be old fashioned,but I like to actually hold and look at products. Sometimes it gives information not available from online jpegs.A good example would be the offshore PFD's. These would seem to be the best choice with their high level of flotation, reflective strips and self righting. But in the store you find that they are so bulky that you would never actually wear one while fishing. I think a PFD loses most of its value if it is not being worn.
WestMarine has a whole store full of interesting products, and some of their staff is worth talking with. I will look into other catalogs and price matching, but I think the brick and mortar stores provide value and insight along with their high prices. Dave
Brian7son posted 01-15-2008 10:34 AM ET (US)
For electronics, try Bethel Marine. They have good prices. Before I purchased my Furuno chart plotter and stereo, I had compared both West Marine and Boater's World. I got much better prices at Bethel.
One small example (off the top of my head) was a pair of Polyplaner 8" 400 watt speakers. Boaters World was $299 a pair, West Marine was $244.00 a pair, Bethel was $182.00 a pair.
http://www.bethel-marine.com/
Whale1 posted 01-15-2008 10:39 AM ET (US)
My local West stores in St. Pete are usually higher priced but will meet any genuine price from a competitor, especially in electronics and other big ticket stuff.

ONH2O
Mobjack posted 01-15-2008 01:26 PM ET (US)
I also like to be able to evaluate a product in person before I buy it, and West is good for that, even if I end up buying somewhere else.. On small items I usually wind up taking the gouging and buying it at West just because they are darn near the only game in town where I am(that's open on Sundays).
One other interesting development at my local West was this:
Usually our store has been staffed by folks who are marginally knowledgeable, and typically not enough that you would want to take their advice about anything. However, recently a guy I know who was a Merc dealer for 30+ years sold his dealership and retired, but got bored so he started working at West about three or four days a week. He is a walking lexicon of boatbuilding and boat maintenance knowledge, and I go there regularly if I have a question about anything.
contender posted 01-15-2008 08:29 PM ET (US)
deepwater, I can understand what you are saying, however the fact is, The last time I was in West Marine I was looking at a battery switch. I drove TWO BLOCKS down the street to another marine store and the same switch was 1/2 price. You can make a profit but don't kill us...good luck
Jefecinco posted 01-15-2008 09:09 PM ET (US)
boe.com
WT posted 01-15-2008 09:27 PM ET (US)
West Marine's stock price has dropped 66% in the past 12 months from #18 to it's current 52 week low of $6 per share.
It looks like it's tough to make a profit in the retail marketplace. It will be a shame if they close all their stores.
Oh well, the consumer has spoken.
Warren
dscew posted 01-15-2008 09:39 PM ET (US)
I've been in a couple of West stores, I won't pay their prices, nor would I allow them to meet someone else's honest pricing, just so they can gouge the rest. I'll try to give the business to the guy who prices it right the first time. That doesn't mean rock bottom prices, since I don't shop at Walmart either. There are a couple of local marine shops that want to serve the community, make a few bucks and talk to their customers. That's what I like to support. Online, it's landnsea.com. Just my .02.
Pawpawwillie posted 01-16-2008 09:49 PM ET (US)
Two examples I noticed today: Sta Bil fuel stabilizer, qt bottle--19.99 in West, 8.47 in Wal Mart. Merc OB oil filter-- 13.99 in West, 8.47 in Wal Mart.
A2J15Sport posted 01-16-2008 10:57 PM ET (US)
You all want to complain about Big Box store monopolies, yet it seems that you all go there.
I read: Duplicity and arrogance.
dscew posted 01-17-2008 08:24 AM ET (US)
I've never been a Walmart, and never intend to be. I do try to support local business, and unless they gouge, that's where I buy.

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