I have to disagree.
If my LDS prices an item so it costs me the same from them as it would if I purchased online and had to pay for shipping then they have earned my business. I`ll pay the local sales tax. That is what I consider reasonable. I want my LDS to compete for my equipment business. Why should I give them special consideration it`s business!
They will make a profit on small items that it won`t pay to ship or items that people need on short notice. They also profit on fills, training and travel bookings.
I`m tired of hearing the BS about supporting your LDS. If there is enough interest in diving in my area and the LDS does a good job of supporting their customers they will survive. I live in a desert and there is close to a dozen LDS` within a hour ride from my home. Some compete and get my business others don`t try so I won`t buy!