West Marine alternative?

[kpenokie]

Is there a competitor to West Marine for basic sailboat gear (shackles, blocks, cam cleats etc...)? I sure would like to be able to compare prices. Not that I'm cheap or anything.

[kpenokie]

Is there a competitor to West Marine for basic sailboat gear (shackles, blocks, cam cleats etc...)? I sure would like to be able to compare prices. Not that I'm cheap or anything.

[kpenokie]

Is there a competitor to West Marine for basic sailboat gear (shackles, blocks, cam cleats etc...)? I sure would like to be able to compare prices. Not that I'm cheap or anything.

[paladin]

Well...heck....just about anyone is cheaper than Waste Marine....
Try Defender Industries, go direct to Nicro Metal marine hardware, ABI Industries and lots of folks advertising in Woodenboat.

[paladin]

Well...heck....just about anyone is cheaper than Waste Marine....
Try Defender Industries, go direct to Nicro Metal marine hardware, ABI Industries and lots of folks advertising in Woodenboat.

[paladin]

Well...heck....just about anyone is cheaper than Waste Marine....
Try Defender Industries, go direct to Nicro Metal marine hardware, ABI Industries and lots of folks advertising in Woodenboat.

[ken mcclure]

Boat US

[ken mcclure]

Boat US

[ken mcclure]

Boat US

[Scott Rosen]

Defender Industries in Waterford, Connecticut is the most popular discount marine supplier. They have at least as much stuff as Waste Marine, without the fancy doo dads and the accompanying high prices. Get their catalog through www.defenderUS.com (http://www.defenderUS.com) or call them at 1-800-628-8225.

I've found their service to be a little spotty at times, but they try hard to make you happy and they have great prices and selection.

I would do everything in my power to avoid buying from Waste Marine.

[Scott Rosen]

Defender Industries in Waterford, Connecticut is the most popular discount marine supplier. They have at least as much stuff as Waste Marine, without the fancy doo dads and the accompanying high prices. Get their catalog through www.defenderUS.com (http://www.defenderUS.com) or call them at 1-800-628-8225.

I've found their service to be a little spotty at times, but they try hard to make you happy and they have great prices and selection.

I would do everything in my power to avoid buying from Waste Marine.

[Scott Rosen]

Defender Industries in Waterford, Connecticut is the most popular discount marine supplier. They have at least as much stuff as Waste Marine, without the fancy doo dads and the accompanying high prices. Get their catalog through www.defenderUS.com (http://www.defenderUS.com) or call them at 1-800-628-8225.

I've found their service to be a little spotty at times, but they try hard to make you happy and they have great prices and selection.

I would do everything in my power to avoid buying from Waste Marine.

[gashmore]

If you are buying a whole bunch of that kind of stuff at one time, Rigging Only will make a deal. For smaller orders, Boat US seems to have the better prices. Defender has better prices on some things but I don't think they are worth the hassle when they get the order wrong. (3 out of 5 times for me).

[gashmore]

If you are buying a whole bunch of that kind of stuff at one time, Rigging Only will make a deal. For smaller orders, Boat US seems to have the better prices. Defender has better prices on some things but I don't think they are worth the hassle when they get the order wrong. (3 out of 5 times for me).

[gashmore]

If you are buying a whole bunch of that kind of stuff at one time, Rigging Only will make a deal. For smaller orders, Boat US seems to have the better prices. Defender has better prices on some things but I don't think they are worth the hassle when they get the order wrong. (3 out of 5 times for me).

[landlocked sailor]

www.jamestowndistributors.com (http://www.jamestowndistributors.com) has my vote. Rick

[landlocked sailor]

www.jamestowndistributors.com (http://www.jamestowndistributors.com) has my vote. Rick

[landlocked sailor]

www.jamestowndistributors.com (http://www.jamestowndistributors.com) has my vote. Rick

[Mike Keers]

Hamilton Marine, "Those guys in Maine"
www.hamiltonmarine.com (http://www.hamiltonmarine.com) gets my boat bux for many necessary items, especially fasteners, plumbing, electrical, rope, some rigging stuff and hardware.

JSI in Florida used to be great until Sailnet.com bought them. Still some deals but service sux. I'll never buy from Defender again, major screw-ups and no satisfaction. Tried to rip me off for $800, had to go to CC dispute mediation.

[Mike Keers]

Hamilton Marine, "Those guys in Maine"
www.hamiltonmarine.com (http://www.hamiltonmarine.com) gets my boat bux for many necessary items, especially fasteners, plumbing, electrical, rope, some rigging stuff and hardware.

JSI in Florida used to be great until Sailnet.com bought them. Still some deals but service sux. I'll never buy from Defender again, major screw-ups and no satisfaction. Tried to rip me off for $800, had to go to CC dispute mediation.

[Mike Keers]

Hamilton Marine, "Those guys in Maine"
www.hamiltonmarine.com (http://www.hamiltonmarine.com) gets my boat bux for many necessary items, especially fasteners, plumbing, electrical, rope, some rigging stuff and hardware.

JSI in Florida used to be great until Sailnet.com bought them. Still some deals but service sux. I'll never buy from Defender again, major screw-ups and no satisfaction. Tried to rip me off for $800, had to go to CC dispute mediation.

[NormMessinger]

(Dang! Somebody is slow this morning. Anybody else notice? MyVitalAgent says 97% of the time required to connect is server. But who's?) Anyway....

My vote goes to Hamilton. If they mess up the make it right. If it isn't in there catalogue they can probably get it if it is from a regular supplier, such as ABI.

Now aintcha jist pleased as punch to get my opinion?

--Norm

[NormMessinger]

(Dang! Somebody is slow this morning. Anybody else notice? MyVitalAgent says 97% of the time required to connect is server. But who's?) Anyway....

My vote goes to Hamilton. If they mess up the make it right. If it isn't in there catalogue they can probably get it if it is from a regular supplier, such as ABI.

Now aintcha jist pleased as punch to get my opinion?

--Norm

[NormMessinger]

(Dang! Somebody is slow this morning. Anybody else notice? MyVitalAgent says 97% of the time required to connect is server. But who's?) Anyway....

My vote goes to Hamilton. If they mess up the make it right. If it isn't in there catalogue they can probably get it if it is from a regular supplier, such as ABI.

Now aintcha jist pleased as punch to get my opinion?

--Norm

[Mark Van]

I'll second Hamilton Marine...I've had very good luck with them.
I've tried Jamestown once, and they screwed up my first order.
Defender has the best prices, but don't use them if you are in a hurry. There service is somewhat anoying. When you call them because they sent you the wrong item, they act as if it is your fault.
Coming down to the tail end of my boatbuilding project, I have been depending on West Marine, because thay are the most consistant and fastest. A one week delay in getting an item could cost a lot more than the extra price West charges. West also has the best On-Line ordering system.
Mark

[Mark Van]

I'll second Hamilton Marine...I've had very good luck with them.
I've tried Jamestown once, and they screwed up my first order.
Defender has the best prices, but don't use them if you are in a hurry. There service is somewhat anoying. When you call them because they sent you the wrong item, they act as if it is your fault.
Coming down to the tail end of my boatbuilding project, I have been depending on West Marine, because thay are the most consistant and fastest. A one week delay in getting an item could cost a lot more than the extra price West charges. West also has the best On-Line ordering system.
Mark

[Mark Van]

I'll second Hamilton Marine...I've had very good luck with them.
I've tried Jamestown once, and they screwed up my first order.
Defender has the best prices, but don't use them if you are in a hurry. There service is somewhat anoying. When you call them because they sent you the wrong item, they act as if it is your fault.
Coming down to the tail end of my boatbuilding project, I have been depending on West Marine, because thay are the most consistant and fastest. A one week delay in getting an item could cost a lot more than the extra price West charges. West also has the best On-Line ordering system.
Mark

[Stu Fyfe]

I'll throw my two cents in. Hamiliton Marine messed up an oar order I placed (sent two different blade sizes) and corrected it within a few days.I can accept mistakes if the company takes care of it like that. Jamestown is the best provider we have for bronze fasteners and such.

[Stu Fyfe]

I'll throw my two cents in. Hamiliton Marine messed up an oar order I placed (sent two different blade sizes) and corrected it within a few days.I can accept mistakes if the company takes care of it like that. Jamestown is the best provider we have for bronze fasteners and such.

[Stu Fyfe]

I'll throw my two cents in. Hamiliton Marine messed up an oar order I placed (sent two different blade sizes) and corrected it within a few days.I can accept mistakes if the company takes care of it like that. Jamestown is the best provider we have for bronze fasteners and such.

[Scott Rosen]

Gotta ring in again. Jamestown is my choice for building and maintenance supplies and basic hardware. I don't think they sell much high-tech "pure sailing" stuff of the kind you'll find at West or Defender. But if you're fitting out a small wooden boat, you should be able to get most of what you need at Jamestown. When I mentioned Defender, I was thinking of stuff like electronics, high-tech sailing gear, anchoring, foul weather gear, etc., which is what I thought (mistakenly?) you were looking for.

[Scott Rosen]

Gotta ring in again. Jamestown is my choice for building and maintenance supplies and basic hardware. I don't think they sell much high-tech "pure sailing" stuff of the kind you'll find at West or Defender. But if you're fitting out a small wooden boat, you should be able to get most of what you need at Jamestown. When I mentioned Defender, I was thinking of stuff like electronics, high-tech sailing gear, anchoring, foul weather gear, etc., which is what I thought (mistakenly?) you were looking for.

[Scott Rosen]

Gotta ring in again. Jamestown is my choice for building and maintenance supplies and basic hardware. I don't think they sell much high-tech "pure sailing" stuff of the kind you'll find at West or Defender. But if you're fitting out a small wooden boat, you should be able to get most of what you need at Jamestown. When I mentioned Defender, I was thinking of stuff like electronics, high-tech sailing gear, anchoring, foul weather gear, etc., which is what I thought (mistakenly?) you were looking for.

[Pelican]

I got a catalog from bosumsupplies.com . Looks like good stuff but haven't had a need to order as yet.

[Pelican]

I got a catalog from bosumsupplies.com . Looks like good stuff but haven't had a need to order as yet.

[Pelican]

I got a catalog from bosumsupplies.com . Looks like good stuff but haven't had a need to order as yet.

[NormMessinger]

http://www.bosunsupplies.com/ http://media5.hypernet.com/~dick/ubb/wink.gif

--Norm

[NormMessinger]

http://www.bosunsupplies.com/ http://media5.hypernet.com/~dick/ubb/wink.gif

--Norm

[NormMessinger]

http://www.bosunsupplies.com/ http://media5.hypernet.com/~dick/ubb/wink.gif

--Norm

[kpenokie]

Well guys (generically used) I spent way too much time looking and comparing prices. The long and the short of it is that there wasn't but $5.00 difference on a $200 order. West Marine, dare I say it, was actually lowest on some items.

Thanks for all the interesting sites and one days worth of entertainment.

[kpenokie]

Well guys (generically used) I spent way too much time looking and comparing prices. The long and the short of it is that there wasn't but $5.00 difference on a $200 order. West Marine, dare I say it, was actually lowest on some items.

Thanks for all the interesting sites and one days worth of entertainment.

[kpenokie]

Well guys (generically used) I spent way too much time looking and comparing prices. The long and the short of it is that there wasn't but $5.00 difference on a $200 order. West Marine, dare I say it, was actually lowest on some items.

Thanks for all the interesting sites and one days worth of entertainment.

[Hugh Paterson]

DAMN BLAST IT..... ive been buying from West marine cause I thought they were cheap, and we have to pay airfreight on our orders cause we live in Scotland, now you have all spoiled my day by telling us of all the others. You guys want to live here then u will know what the word RIPPOFF really means.
but I know now...... c ya im off shopping.

Shuggie.

[Hugh Paterson]

DAMN BLAST IT..... ive been buying from West marine cause I thought they were cheap, and we have to pay airfreight on our orders cause we live in Scotland, now you have all spoiled my day by telling us of all the others. You guys want to live here then u will know what the word RIPPOFF really means.
but I know now...... c ya im off shopping.

Shuggie.

[Hugh Paterson]

DAMN BLAST IT..... ive been buying from West marine cause I thought they were cheap, and we have to pay airfreight on our orders cause we live in Scotland, now you have all spoiled my day by telling us of all the others. You guys want to live here then u will know what the word RIPPOFF really means.
but I know now...... c ya im off shopping.

Shuggie.

[Bob Cleek]

Hugh, why not Davey and Co., London? I've had to have them send stuff across to the USA west coast, right here in WasteMarine's back yard! They were the only one's that had that really hard to find old fashioned UK hardware. (Where else will you find an asbestos liner for a Pascal Atkey Pansey cabin heater? LOL)

[Bob Cleek]

Hugh, why not Davey and Co., London? I've had to have them send stuff across to the USA west coast, right here in WasteMarine's back yard! They were the only one's that had that really hard to find old fashioned UK hardware. (Where else will you find an asbestos liner for a Pascal Atkey Pansey cabin heater? LOL)

[Bob Cleek]

Hugh, why not Davey and Co., London? I've had to have them send stuff across to the USA west coast, right here in WasteMarine's back yard! They were the only one's that had that really hard to find old fashioned UK hardware. (Where else will you find an asbestos liner for a Pascal Atkey Pansey cabin heater? LOL)

[Al Lorman]

I have patronized many of the suggested alternatives to West Marine, as well as West Marine, and I have to say that, when the chips are down, no one beats West Marine (or, at least, the location I patronize). I won't bore you with the details, but I've had a several months long disaster, originally caused by another supplier, and when West made a minor contribution to the choas, they turned themselves inside out to rectify the situation. They have gone far beyond what any reasonable person could have expected and seem concerned solely with solving the problem. And the low bidder that was the principal cause of the problem? They basically couldn't care less.

[Al Lorman]

I have patronized many of the suggested alternatives to West Marine, as well as West Marine, and I have to say that, when the chips are down, no one beats West Marine (or, at least, the location I patronize). I won't bore you with the details, but I've had a several months long disaster, originally caused by another supplier, and when West made a minor contribution to the choas, they turned themselves inside out to rectify the situation. They have gone far beyond what any reasonable person could have expected and seem concerned solely with solving the problem. And the low bidder that was the principal cause of the problem? They basically couldn't care less.

[Al Lorman]

I have patronized many of the suggested alternatives to West Marine, as well as West Marine, and I have to say that, when the chips are down, no one beats West Marine (or, at least, the location I patronize). I won't bore you with the details, but I've had a several months long disaster, originally caused by another supplier, and when West made a minor contribution to the choas, they turned themselves inside out to rectify the situation. They have gone far beyond what any reasonable person could have expected and seem concerned solely with solving the problem. And the low bidder that was the principal cause of the problem? They basically couldn't care less.

[rbgarr]

I had an interesting experience with West Marine the other day. A cousin of mine is getting married in two weeks and we got an e-mail announcing that the couple had 'registered' at West Marine (shades of Martha Stewart!). I got a list of what their preferred gifts are, checked out prices by shopping other locations, eventually got them a new barometer on ebay for half retail (and still too expensive for what it is, but that's another topic).

The interesting thing is that when I called West Marine's 800 number a message said that all their order takers were busy, but that if I called back Wed-Fri, they'd ship any order for free if I mentioned something like their " Busy Order Takers Discount". Just tell them you tried calling earlier in the week and got no ordertaker on the line. Maybe it would work, who knows?
I guess they do that in an effort to forestall buyers from shopping around.

[rbgarr]

I had an interesting experience with West Marine the other day. A cousin of mine is getting married in two weeks and we got an e-mail announcing that the couple had 'registered' at West Marine (shades of Martha Stewart!). I got a list of what their preferred gifts are, checked out prices by shopping other locations, eventually got them a new barometer on ebay for half retail (and still too expensive for what it is, but that's another topic).

The interesting thing is that when I called West Marine's 800 number a message said that all their order takers were busy, but that if I called back Wed-Fri, they'd ship any order for free if I mentioned something like their " Busy Order Takers Discount". Just tell them you tried calling earlier in the week and got no ordertaker on the line. Maybe it would work, who knows?
I guess they do that in an effort to forestall buyers from shopping around.

[rbgarr]

I had an interesting experience with West Marine the other day. A cousin of mine is getting married in two weeks and we got an e-mail announcing that the couple had 'registered' at West Marine (shades of Martha Stewart!). I got a list of what their preferred gifts are, checked out prices by shopping other locations, eventually got them a new barometer on ebay for half retail (and still too expensive for what it is, but that's another topic).

The interesting thing is that when I called West Marine's 800 number a message said that all their order takers were busy, but that if I called back Wed-Fri, they'd ship any order for free if I mentioned something like their " Busy Order Takers Discount". Just tell them you tried calling earlier in the week and got no ordertaker on the line. Maybe it would work, who knows?
I guess they do that in an effort to forestall buyers from shopping around.

[Bob Cleek]

I used to shop at WasteMarine long before it was even invented. Used to be Anchorage Marine in Sausalito, CA, and West cordage hooked up with them and eventually bought out the independent Anchorage Marine. That became the first WestMarine store. (I know, I should have gotten in on the IPO...LOL) Amazingly, there are still folks working at the Sausalito WasteMarine store who were working there when it was Anchorage Marine. Good folks and they do know their products. Unfortunately, the chandlery business has gone the way of the hardware stores. It costs a tremendous amount to "floor" inventory. They have to pay interest on the money that is borrowed (or lose it on the capital) for all the product that stocks their shelves waiting to be bought. Hence, it has become almost impossible to buy that little widget that nobody needs except once in a blue moon. The bean counters tell them they have to allocate floor space to the products that "move." It isn't about how much it costs, but how fast they can turn it around and send it out the door. Thus, we have "chandleries" that are full of foul weather gear, sunglasses, tennis shoes, paperweights, greeting cards, boat pencil and pen sets and related crap like that, but short on that particular bolt you really need. (Yea, they can order five of them in a blister pack for you, for a price, but you needed six.)

I have to say in West's defense that they are sailors and boaters generally and they are sensitive to this problem. They will try to get what you need. On the other hand, the economics of hardware sales has made WestMarine and Defender sort of the Ace Hardware of the chandlery business, with negative results. Just as hardware stores have become "home improvement centers," long on five hundred buck gas barbeques and short on keg nails you can buy by the pound, the chandleries have really put the "little guy" out of business except on a boutique basis. Nobody can make a living making traditional marine hardware, for instance, unless they are selling limited quantities of "jewelry" out of the back pages of WoodenBoat, or have cornered the market like ABI with a line of semi-traditional stuff made by Asian children chained to their worktables. The trend is toward "generic" and you can expect to see more and more with the WestMarine label on the shelves and less and less of the stuff that doesn't have the broad appeal of a plastic Harken block. Perhaps the worst side effect of these economic realities is that, like the "big box" stores like Costco and Home Despot, WestMarine is now big enough to dictate to the manufacturers what will and will not be made, and to whom they will sell. I have ABI (bronze and stainless fittings) and Anchor (marine electrical hardware) right in my own neighborhood. I KNOW those guys. Yet, they now have contracts with WestMarine which PROHIBIT their selling products themselves to individual retail customers. You used to be able to purchase a stock item right from the manufacturer, but now they will all tell you that their products are available at WestMarine... You can only buy from the manufacturer if you go "commercial" and get a resale license and do the sales tax dance with the State and all. That really isn't worth the trouble unless you are really dealing in volume. It may be of help to some to know that WestMarine itself has a commercial subsidiary called "Port Supply" which is identical to the WestMarine catalog, but at lower prices, if you qualify as a commercial customer. They are pretty tight with it, though, since they'd rather charge you retail! LOL

[Bob Cleek]

I used to shop at WasteMarine long before it was even invented. Used to be Anchorage Marine in Sausalito, CA, and West cordage hooked up with them and eventually bought out the independent Anchorage Marine. That became the first WestMarine store. (I know, I should have gotten in on the IPO...LOL) Amazingly, there are still folks working at the Sausalito WasteMarine store who were working there when it was Anchorage Marine. Good folks and they do know their products. Unfortunately, the chandlery business has gone the way of the hardware stores. It costs a tremendous amount to "floor" inventory. They have to pay interest on the money that is borrowed (or lose it on the capital) for all the product that stocks their shelves waiting to be bought. Hence, it has become almost impossible to buy that little widget that nobody needs except once in a blue moon. The bean counters tell them they have to allocate floor space to the products that "move." It isn't about how much it costs, but how fast they can turn it around and send it out the door. Thus, we have "chandleries" that are full of foul weather gear, sunglasses, tennis shoes, paperweights, greeting cards, boat pencil and pen sets and related crap like that, but short on that particular bolt you really need. (Yea, they can order five of them in a blister pack for you, for a price, but you needed six.)

I have to say in West's defense that they are sailors and boaters generally and they are sensitive to this problem. They will try to get what you need. On the other hand, the economics of hardware sales has made WestMarine and Defender sort of the Ace Hardware of the chandlery business, with negative results. Just as hardware stores have become "home improvement centers," long on five hundred buck gas barbeques and short on keg nails you can buy by the pound, the chandleries have really put the "little guy" out of business except on a boutique basis. Nobody can make a living making traditional marine hardware, for instance, unless they are selling limited quantities of "jewelry" out of the back pages of WoodenBoat, or have cornered the market like ABI with a line of semi-traditional stuff made by Asian children chained to their worktables. The trend is toward "generic" and you can expect to see more and more with the WestMarine label on the shelves and less and less of the stuff that doesn't have the broad appeal of a plastic Harken block. Perhaps the worst side effect of these economic realities is that, like the "big box" stores like Costco and Home Despot, WestMarine is now big enough to dictate to the manufacturers what will and will not be made, and to whom they will sell. I have ABI (bronze and stainless fittings) and Anchor (marine electrical hardware) right in my own neighborhood. I KNOW those guys. Yet, they now have contracts with WestMarine which PROHIBIT their selling products themselves to individual retail customers. You used to be able to purchase a stock item right from the manufacturer, but now they will all tell you that their products are available at WestMarine... You can only buy from the manufacturer if you go "commercial" and get a resale license and do the sales tax dance with the State and all. That really isn't worth the trouble unless you are really dealing in volume. It may be of help to some to know that WestMarine itself has a commercial subsidiary called "Port Supply" which is identical to the WestMarine catalog, but at lower prices, if you qualify as a commercial customer. They are pretty tight with it, though, since they'd rather charge you retail! LOL

[Bob Cleek]

I used to shop at WasteMarine long before it was even invented. Used to be Anchorage Marine in Sausalito, CA, and West cordage hooked up with them and eventually bought out the independent Anchorage Marine. That became the first WestMarine store. (I know, I should have gotten in on the IPO...LOL) Amazingly, there are still folks working at the Sausalito WasteMarine store who were working there when it was Anchorage Marine. Good folks and they do know their products. Unfortunately, the chandlery business has gone the way of the hardware stores. It costs a tremendous amount to "floor" inventory. They have to pay interest on the money that is borrowed (or lose it on the capital) for all the product that stocks their shelves waiting to be bought. Hence, it has become almost impossible to buy that little widget that nobody needs except once in a blue moon. The bean counters tell them they have to allocate floor space to the products that "move." It isn't about how much it costs, but how fast they can turn it around and send it out the door. Thus, we have "chandleries" that are full of foul weather gear, sunglasses, tennis shoes, paperweights, greeting cards, boat pencil and pen sets and related crap like that, but short on that particular bolt you really need. (Yea, they can order five of them in a blister pack for you, for a price, but you needed six.)

I have to say in West's defense that they are sailors and boaters generally and they are sensitive to this problem. They will try to get what you need. On the other hand, the economics of hardware sales has made WestMarine and Defender sort of the Ace Hardware of the chandlery business, with negative results. Just as hardware stores have become "home improvement centers," long on five hundred buck gas barbeques and short on keg nails you can buy by the pound, the chandleries have really put the "little guy" out of business except on a boutique basis. Nobody can make a living making traditional marine hardware, for instance, unless they are selling limited quantities of "jewelry" out of the back pages of WoodenBoat, or have cornered the market like ABI with a line of semi-traditional stuff made by Asian children chained to their worktables. The trend is toward "generic" and you can expect to see more and more with the WestMarine label on the shelves and less and less of the stuff that doesn't have the broad appeal of a plastic Harken block. Perhaps the worst side effect of these economic realities is that, like the "big box" stores like Costco and Home Despot, WestMarine is now big enough to dictate to the manufacturers what will and will not be made, and to whom they will sell. I have ABI (bronze and stainless fittings) and Anchor (marine electrical hardware) right in my own neighborhood. I KNOW those guys. Yet, they now have contracts with WestMarine which PROHIBIT their selling products themselves to individual retail customers. You used to be able to purchase a stock item right from the manufacturer, but now they will all tell you that their products are available at WestMarine... You can only buy from the manufacturer if you go "commercial" and get a resale license and do the sales tax dance with the State and all. That really isn't worth the trouble unless you are really dealing in volume. It may be of help to some to know that WestMarine itself has a commercial subsidiary called "Port Supply" which is identical to the WestMarine catalog, but at lower prices, if you qualify as a commercial customer. They are pretty tight with it, though, since they'd rather charge you retail! LOL

[Scott Rosen]

Well, Bob and others,

The folks who work at my local Waste Marine don't know much and they're arrogant to boot. I just can't stand shopping there. The sales people talk to me like I'm some kind of an idiot. There's one guy there who has a very strong "I know better than you do" attitude. (even if I am some kind of an idiot, they shouldn't talk to me like that) I know that for some items like electronics their pricing is okay, but for the items I use the most, they either don't stock them or they charge an arm and a leg. For example, if you buy building or finishing supplies at Waste, you've spent two or three times what you would pay at Jamestown Distributors, or even at a local paint store. Compare the price of Penetrol or mineral spirits or sand paper or masking tape or foam brushes or fasteners or rubber gloves or electrical supplies or propane canisters or engine parts. You'll be shocked. Despite their claimed expertise, there's lots that the Waste folks either don't know or won't tell you. For example, a guy at my yard was trying to get some teak clean. He went to Waste and ended up buying a bunch of expensive products and brushes and none of them worked. He went back to the Wast catalog and studied it trying to find the answer. I had mercy on the guy and told him to go to the paint or hardware store and buy a pound of TSP. I know he didn't believe me, but to his credit he followed my advice anyway. When I next saw him, he was thanking my profusely for the tip. He said after he saw how well it cleaned the years of dried up goo on his teak, he tried the stuff at home too and couldn't believe how well it worked. He also noticed that it smelled a little like Fantastic and 409--at about 1/100th of the price. Duh. I told him that before he buys that bottle of expensive bilge cleaner, he might want to mix up some of his leftover TSP and try it on the bilge. TSP is less than a dollar a pound, and a pound makes at least 20 gallons of solution, probably more. I told him that it also removes rust, exhaust and pollution stains from paint and gelcoat for a mere fraction of the stuff in the shiny bottle with the picture of the boat on it. Then, before consulting me again, he went back to Waste for a teak "treatment" for his interior teak trim (plywood, I'm sure) that won't darken the wood too much. Waste sent him home with a couple of bottles of some snake oil, and none of them gave him the golden amber finish he was looking for. I asked him if he'd tried pure tung oil. Nope. Never heard of the stuff. I told him that it's the basic ingredient of the snake oils he paid an arm and leg for, but without the needless additives and resins. Another guy overheard us and chimed in saying how tung oil gives the nicest interior finish without turning the wood black. I'll bet that if you asked every Waste Marine employee what to use on interior teak, not one of them would tell you to use pure tung oil. Why? Simple. They don't sell it.

As far as I can tell, Waste is in it only for the money and only for their shareholders. They only carry products with a high profit margin, even if there's something better out there. Their "sales associates" are brainwashed, uh I mean trained, to sing the praises of whatever the higher-ups decide to put on the shelves.

Don't say I didn't warn ya.

[Scott Rosen]

Well, Bob and others,

The folks who work at my local Waste Marine don't know much and they're arrogant to boot. I just can't stand shopping there. The sales people talk to me like I'm some kind of an idiot. There's one guy there who has a very strong "I know better than you do" attitude. (even if I am some kind of an idiot, they shouldn't talk to me like that) I know that for some items like electronics their pricing is okay, but for the items I use the most, they either don't stock them or they charge an arm and a leg. For example, if you buy building or finishing supplies at Waste, you've spent two or three times what you would pay at Jamestown Distributors, or even at a local paint store. Compare the price of Penetrol or mineral spirits or sand paper or masking tape or foam brushes or fasteners or rubber gloves or electrical supplies or propane canisters or engine parts. You'll be shocked. Despite their claimed expertise, there's lots that the Waste folks either don't know or won't tell you. For example, a guy at my yard was trying to get some teak clean. He went to Waste and ended up buying a bunch of expensive products and brushes and none of them worked. He went back to the Wast catalog and studied it trying to find the answer. I had mercy on the guy and told him to go to the paint or hardware store and buy a pound of TSP. I know he didn't believe me, but to his credit he followed my advice anyway. When I next saw him, he was thanking my profusely for the tip. He said after he saw how well it cleaned the years of dried up goo on his teak, he tried the stuff at home too and couldn't believe how well it worked. He also noticed that it smelled a little like Fantastic and 409--at about 1/100th of the price. Duh. I told him that before he buys that bottle of expensive bilge cleaner, he might want to mix up some of his leftover TSP and try it on the bilge. TSP is less than a dollar a pound, and a pound makes at least 20 gallons of solution, probably more. I told him that it also removes rust, exhaust and pollution stains from paint and gelcoat for a mere fraction of the stuff in the shiny bottle with the picture of the boat on it. Then, before consulting me again, he went back to Waste for a teak "treatment" for his interior teak trim (plywood, I'm sure) that won't darken the wood too much. Waste sent him home with a couple of bottles of some snake oil, and none of them gave him the golden amber finish he was looking for. I asked him if he'd tried pure tung oil. Nope. Never heard of the stuff. I told him that it's the basic ingredient of the snake oils he paid an arm and leg for, but without the needless additives and resins. Another guy overheard us and chimed in saying how tung oil gives the nicest interior finish without turning the wood black. I'll bet that if you asked every Waste Marine employee what to use on interior teak, not one of them would tell you to use pure tung oil. Why? Simple. They don't sell it.

As far as I can tell, Waste is in it only for the money and only for their shareholders. They only carry products with a high profit margin, even if there's something better out there. Their "sales associates" are brainwashed, uh I mean trained, to sing the praises of whatever the higher-ups decide to put on the shelves.

Don't say I didn't warn ya.

[Scott Rosen]

Well, Bob and others,

The folks who work at my local Waste Marine don't know much and they're arrogant to boot. I just can't stand shopping there. The sales people talk to me like I'm some kind of an idiot. There's one guy there who has a very strong "I know better than you do" attitude. (even if I am some kind of an idiot, they shouldn't talk to me like that) I know that for some items like electronics their pricing is okay, but for the items I use the most, they either don't stock them or they charge an arm and a leg. For example, if you buy building or finishing supplies at Waste, you've spent two or three times what you would pay at Jamestown Distributors, or even at a local paint store. Compare the price of Penetrol or mineral spirits or sand paper or masking tape or foam brushes or fasteners or rubber gloves or electrical supplies or propane canisters or engine parts. You'll be shocked. Despite their claimed expertise, there's lots that the Waste folks either don't know or won't tell you. For example, a guy at my yard was trying to get some teak clean. He went to Waste and ended up buying a bunch of expensive products and brushes and none of them worked. He went back to the Wast catalog and studied it trying to find the answer. I had mercy on the guy and told him to go to the paint or hardware store and buy a pound of TSP. I know he didn't believe me, but to his credit he followed my advice anyway. When I next saw him, he was thanking my profusely for the tip. He said after he saw how well it cleaned the years of dried up goo on his teak, he tried the stuff at home too and couldn't believe how well it worked. He also noticed that it smelled a little like Fantastic and 409--at about 1/100th of the price. Duh. I told him that before he buys that bottle of expensive bilge cleaner, he might want to mix up some of his leftover TSP and try it on the bilge. TSP is less than a dollar a pound, and a pound makes at least 20 gallons of solution, probably more. I told him that it also removes rust, exhaust and pollution stains from paint and gelcoat for a mere fraction of the stuff in the shiny bottle with the picture of the boat on it. Then, before consulting me again, he went back to Waste for a teak "treatment" for his interior teak trim (plywood, I'm sure) that won't darken the wood too much. Waste sent him home with a couple of bottles of some snake oil, and none of them gave him the golden amber finish he was looking for. I asked him if he'd tried pure tung oil. Nope. Never heard of the stuff. I told him that it's the basic ingredient of the snake oils he paid an arm and leg for, but without the needless additives and resins. Another guy overheard us and chimed in saying how tung oil gives the nicest interior finish without turning the wood black. I'll bet that if you asked every Waste Marine employee what to use on interior teak, not one of them would tell you to use pure tung oil. Why? Simple. They don't sell it.

As far as I can tell, Waste is in it only for the money and only for their shareholders. They only carry products with a high profit margin, even if there's something better out there. Their "sales associates" are brainwashed, uh I mean trained, to sing the praises of whatever the higher-ups decide to put on the shelves.

Don't say I didn't warn ya.

[thinwatersailor]

Most of the West Marine employees around here, rather than being boat experts, are part timers who work there for the discount to stock their own boats. Defender just sent me an anchor, got here in three days, and West doesn't even carry that particular one. Still, patronize the little guys if you can find them.

[thinwatersailor]

Most of the West Marine employees around here, rather than being boat experts, are part timers who work there for the discount to stock their own boats. Defender just sent me an anchor, got here in three days, and West doesn't even carry that particular one. Still, patronize the little guys if you can find them.

[thinwatersailor]

Most of the West Marine employees around here, rather than being boat experts, are part timers who work there for the discount to stock their own boats. Defender just sent me an anchor, got here in three days, and West doesn't even carry that particular one. Still, patronize the little guys if you can find them.

[cs]

Originally posted by Bob Cleek:
I used to shop at WasteMarine long before it was even invented. Used to be Anchorage Marine in Sausalito, CA, and West cordage hooked up with them and eventually bought out the independent Anchorage Marine. That became the first WestMarine store. (I know, I should have gotten in on the IPO...LOL)


Yes, you can still buy there stock at only $6.31 a share at the last update. You can see there recent quote at:
http://www.cnbc.com/chart/chart.html?sym=WMAR&Timespan=260

Chad Smith

[cs]

Originally posted by Bob Cleek:
I used to shop at WasteMarine long before it was even invented. Used to be Anchorage Marine in Sausalito, CA, and West cordage hooked up with them and eventually bought out the independent Anchorage Marine. That became the first WestMarine store. (I know, I should have gotten in on the IPO...LOL)


Yes, you can still buy there stock at only $6.31 a share at the last update. You can see there recent quote at:
http://www.cnbc.com/chart/chart.html?sym=WMAR&Timespan=260

Chad Smith

[cs]

Originally posted by Bob Cleek:
I used to shop at WasteMarine long before it was even invented. Used to be Anchorage Marine in Sausalito, CA, and West cordage hooked up with them and eventually bought out the independent Anchorage Marine. That became the first WestMarine store. (I know, I should have gotten in on the IPO...LOL)


Yes, you can still buy there stock at only $6.31 a share at the last update. You can see there recent quote at:
http://www.cnbc.com/chart/chart.html?sym=WMAR&Timespan=260

Chad Smith

[Scott Rosen]

Yeh, I think the IPO was at $6.875 on 12/13/93. Bob, compared to a similar investment in dotcoms, you would be in great shape. Over a period of about eight years, you would have lost only about 50 cents a share on you intitial investment in Waste Marine. And that's the good news. The price to earnings ratio is 12.76, which means that not only has your initial investment declined in value, but the actual earnings are less than 1% of the stock value. That means you'd make over three times as much on a simple bank savings account. But the worst still isn't over. It doesn't appear that Waste Marine has ever paid a dividend to its stockholders. Market capital is $110,000,000. Who in their right mind would pay a hundred and ten million dollars for this company--just to get a return of less than a penny on the dollar for their investment?

[Scott Rosen]

Yeh, I think the IPO was at $6.875 on 12/13/93. Bob, compared to a similar investment in dotcoms, you would be in great shape. Over a period of about eight years, you would have lost only about 50 cents a share on you intitial investment in Waste Marine. And that's the good news. The price to earnings ratio is 12.76, which means that not only has your initial investment declined in value, but the actual earnings are less than 1% of the stock value. That means you'd make over three times as much on a simple bank savings account. But the worst still isn't over. It doesn't appear that Waste Marine has ever paid a dividend to its stockholders. Market capital is $110,000,000. Who in their right mind would pay a hundred and ten million dollars for this company--just to get a return of less than a penny on the dollar for their investment?

[Scott Rosen]

Yeh, I think the IPO was at $6.875 on 12/13/93. Bob, compared to a similar investment in dotcoms, you would be in great shape. Over a period of about eight years, you would have lost only about 50 cents a share on you intitial investment in Waste Marine. And that's the good news. The price to earnings ratio is 12.76, which means that not only has your initial investment declined in value, but the actual earnings are less than 1% of the stock value. That means you'd make over three times as much on a simple bank savings account. But the worst still isn't over. It doesn't appear that Waste Marine has ever paid a dividend to its stockholders. Market capital is $110,000,000. Who in their right mind would pay a hundred and ten million dollars for this company--just to get a return of less than a penny on the dollar for their investment?

[gashmore]

If you plan to buy a bunch of stuff it pays to get a Federal tax ID for a "marine repair company" and get a dealer relationship with Lewis marine, Port Supply, Oceanna or any of a number of other distributors.

You have to watch the prices because if you only order one or a few feet, the price will be the same as Boat US or West. But if you want a box of fittings or clamps, a full roll of hose or wire or a case of caulk, you would be amazed at the price.

[gashmore]

If you plan to buy a bunch of stuff it pays to get a Federal tax ID for a "marine repair company" and get a dealer relationship with Lewis marine, Port Supply, Oceanna or any of a number of other distributors.

You have to watch the prices because if you only order one or a few feet, the price will be the same as Boat US or West. But if you want a box of fittings or clamps, a full roll of hose or wire or a case of caulk, you would be amazed at the price.

[gashmore]

If you plan to buy a bunch of stuff it pays to get a Federal tax ID for a "marine repair company" and get a dealer relationship with Lewis marine, Port Supply, Oceanna or any of a number of other distributors.

You have to watch the prices because if you only order one or a few feet, the price will be the same as Boat US or West. But if you want a box of fittings or clamps, a full roll of hose or wire or a case of caulk, you would be amazed at the price.

[Bob Cleek]

Thanks for the stock tip, Scott. Now I don't feel so bad! LOL Amen to WasteMarine NOT being the place to buy ANYTHING YOU CAN BUY ANYWHERE ELSE. I've often ranted about crap that costs four times as much because of the boat on the can... WasteMarine is a store with a boat on the wall!

WasteMarine is a "resource" because sometimes it is the only place you can get a little widget on Saturday morning, without which, you'd lose the weekend's work. Sandpaper? Jen Brushes? Holy Moley! No way, Jose! Their prices on "ordinary" stuff are highway robbery. Besides, anybody who owns a wooden boat and doesn't buy sandpaper by the sleeve and foam brushes by the box is throwing away money. (BTW... I was amazed to find 3M Tri-M-ite in 50 sheet half sleeves at Home Despot for a very competitive price.) I know you love TSP for cleaning (and I love the civil disobedience aspect of rinsing it overboard! LOL), but nothing beats oxalic acid for bleaching teak. It doesn't have a boat on the can, either, and can be had at any paint store for peanuts.

One last WasteMarine tip. Their "Skipper's Varnish" is reportedly Z Spar "Captains" packaged with WasteMarine's house label. Occasionally, they have it on sale as an advertising "loss leader" at $12 or $13 a quart. That's a fair savings over Z Spar Captains and I stock up when I get the chance.

[Bob Cleek]

Thanks for the stock tip, Scott. Now I don't feel so bad! LOL Amen to WasteMarine NOT being the place to buy ANYTHING YOU CAN BUY ANYWHERE ELSE. I've often ranted about crap that costs four times as much because of the boat on the can... WasteMarine is a store with a boat on the wall!

WasteMarine is a "resource" because sometimes it is the only place you can get a little widget on Saturday morning, without which, you'd lose the weekend's work. Sandpaper? Jen Brushes? Holy Moley! No way, Jose! Their prices on "ordinary" stuff are highway robbery. Besides, anybody who owns a wooden boat and doesn't buy sandpaper by the sleeve and foam brushes by the box is throwing away money. (BTW... I was amazed to find 3M Tri-M-ite in 50 sheet half sleeves at Home Despot for a very competitive price.) I know you love TSP for cleaning (and I love the civil disobedience aspect of rinsing it overboard! LOL), but nothing beats oxalic acid for bleaching teak. It doesn't have a boat on the can, either, and can be had at any paint store for peanuts.

One last WasteMarine tip. Their "Skipper's Varnish" is reportedly Z Spar "Captains" packaged with WasteMarine's house label. Occasionally, they have it on sale as an advertising "loss leader" at $12 or $13 a quart. That's a fair savings over Z Spar Captains and I stock up when I get the chance.

[Bob Cleek]

Thanks for the stock tip, Scott. Now I don't feel so bad! LOL Amen to WasteMarine NOT being the place to buy ANYTHING YOU CAN BUY ANYWHERE ELSE. I've often ranted about crap that costs four times as much because of the boat on the can... WasteMarine is a store with a boat on the wall!

WasteMarine is a "resource" because sometimes it is the only place you can get a little widget on Saturday morning, without which, you'd lose the weekend's work. Sandpaper? Jen Brushes? Holy Moley! No way, Jose! Their prices on "ordinary" stuff are highway robbery. Besides, anybody who owns a wooden boat and doesn't buy sandpaper by the sleeve and foam brushes by the box is throwing away money. (BTW... I was amazed to find 3M Tri-M-ite in 50 sheet half sleeves at Home Despot for a very competitive price.) I know you love TSP for cleaning (and I love the civil disobedience aspect of rinsing it overboard! LOL), but nothing beats oxalic acid for bleaching teak. It doesn't have a boat on the can, either, and can be had at any paint store for peanuts.

One last WasteMarine tip. Their "Skipper's Varnish" is reportedly Z Spar "Captains" packaged with WasteMarine's house label. Occasionally, they have it on sale as an advertising "loss leader" at $12 or $13 a quart. That's a fair savings over Z Spar Captains and I stock up when I get the chance.

[RGNowak]

I like Garhaur marine for sailboat hardware. They have high quality stuff with prices about 50% of Harken equivelents.

http://www.garhauermarine.com/

Originally posted by kpenokie:
Is there a competitor to West Marine for basic sailboat gear (shackles, blocks, cam cleats etc...)? I sure would like to be able to compare prices. Not that I'm cheap or anything.

[RGNowak]

I like Garhaur marine for sailboat hardware. They have high quality stuff with prices about 50% of Harken equivelents.

http://www.garhauermarine.com/

Originally posted by kpenokie:
Is there a competitor to West Marine for basic sailboat gear (shackles, blocks, cam cleats etc...)? I sure would like to be able to compare prices. Not that I'm cheap or anything.

[RGNowak]

I like Garhaur marine for sailboat hardware. They have high quality stuff with prices about 50% of Harken equivelents.

http://www.garhauermarine.com/

Originally posted by kpenokie:
Is there a competitor to West Marine for basic sailboat gear (shackles, blocks, cam cleats etc...)? I sure would like to be able to compare prices. Not that I'm cheap or anything.

[Alan D. Hyde]

It seems likely to me that someone associated with West Marine may be lurking out there.

Why not step in, and explain your price structure, corporate policies, reasons for these things, economic realities of the business, etc.?

Here in the midwest, West stores are cheaper than most of the non-mail-order alternatives (boat dealers and marinas). If you need something NOW, they often have it, and are consequently very convenient.

There's a lot of overhead expense tied up in their space and their stock, so I wouldn't expect them to be cheaper than a low-cost strictly mail-order competitor.

Convenience, like everything else, must be paid for. And who reasonably expects expertise in ANYTHING from a retail store clerk?

Alan

[Alan D. Hyde]

It seems likely to me that someone associated with West Marine may be lurking out there.

Why not step in, and explain your price structure, corporate policies, reasons for these things, economic realities of the business, etc.?

Here in the midwest, West stores are cheaper than most of the non-mail-order alternatives (boat dealers and marinas). If you need something NOW, they often have it, and are consequently very convenient.

There's a lot of overhead expense tied up in their space and their stock, so I wouldn't expect them to be cheaper than a low-cost strictly mail-order competitor.

Convenience, like everything else, must be paid for. And who reasonably expects expertise in ANYTHING from a retail store clerk?

Alan

[Alan D. Hyde]

It seems likely to me that someone associated with West Marine may be lurking out there.

Why not step in, and explain your price structure, corporate policies, reasons for these things, economic realities of the business, etc.?

Here in the midwest, West stores are cheaper than most of the non-mail-order alternatives (boat dealers and marinas). If you need something NOW, they often have it, and are consequently very convenient.

There's a lot of overhead expense tied up in their space and their stock, so I wouldn't expect them to be cheaper than a low-cost strictly mail-order competitor.

Convenience, like everything else, must be paid for. And who reasonably expects expertise in ANYTHING from a retail store clerk?

Alan

[Scott Rosen]

Alan,

I've often questioned the wisdom of those in the recreational boating business who think that by expanding into more geographical areas they will achieve economies of scale and greater profits. That model works extremely well for a businesses like McDonald's, oil companies and may work for retail department stores (maybe not--check out all of the recent Chapter 11 filings by national retail chains) but judging by market performance, not so well for Waste Marine.

Problem with this model is that the West Marine brand name is not associated with any particular product. Nor does West have an exclusive right to sell any significant products. You can't get a BigMac at the local diner, but you can get a Garmin GPS at your locally owned chandlery. West's generic brand cleaners and paints aren't exactly going to be the next "BigMac" of the boating world. In other words, if someone else opens a store down the street and offers lower prices, greater conveience, better service or any combination of those, then West would have little advantage in that locality. That's the situation here in coastal Connecticut. Boaters have lots of choices, and West is just one of many. It's also the case that in my neck of the woods, West is not necessarily the most convenient. I'm closer to a Boaters' World than to a West, and Boaters' World sells at the same price or less than West. Guess where I go on a Sunday morning when I need an extra lifejacket at the last minute? West promotes itself as having greater knowledge and expertise (and in fact their catalog is informative), but how many people will pay more or be inconvenienced for that perceived bit of expertise? Not enough to keep the shareholders happy, I would think.

Here in the Northeast, we have a chain of marinas operated by Brewers. I believe that Brewers is a privately owned company. Their idea is that by purchasing or affiliating with many marinas alond the coast, they can offer services and get economies of scale that a sinlge local marina can't match. They appear to have done well with their growth during good economic times. We'll see if that kind of growth by acquisition will help them survive the next economic downturn. Boating, like other luxury items, is usually the first to feel the pinch. Flexibility and low overhead are usually the traits that allow companies to survive a downturn. Larger companies have a harder time being flexible, are less able to reduce their overhead costs and are slower to react to changing market conditions.

[Scott Rosen]

Alan,

I've often questioned the wisdom of those in the recreational boating business who think that by expanding into more geographical areas they will achieve economies of scale and greater profits. That model works extremely well for a businesses like McDonald's, oil companies and may work for retail department stores (maybe not--check out all of the recent Chapter 11 filings by national retail chains) but judging by market performance, not so well for Waste Marine.

Problem with this model is that the West Marine brand name is not associated with any particular product. Nor does West have an exclusive right to sell any significant products. You can't get a BigMac at the local diner, but you can get a Garmin GPS at your locally owned chandlery. West's generic brand cleaners and paints aren't exactly going to be the next "BigMac" of the boating world. In other words, if someone else opens a store down the street and offers lower prices, greater conveience, better service or any combination of those, then West would have little advantage in that locality. That's the situation here in coastal Connecticut. Boaters have lots of choices, and West is just one of many. It's also the case that in my neck of the woods, West is not necessarily the most convenient. I'm closer to a Boaters' World than to a West, and Boaters' World sells at the same price or less than West. Guess where I go on a Sunday morning when I need an extra lifejacket at the last minute? West promotes itself as having greater knowledge and expertise (and in fact their catalog is informative), but how many people will pay more or be inconvenienced for that perceived bit of expertise? Not enough to keep the shareholders happy, I would think.

Here in the Northeast, we have a chain of marinas operated by Brewers. I believe that Brewers is a privately owned company. Their idea is that by purchasing or affiliating with many marinas alond the coast, they can offer services and get economies of scale that a sinlge local marina can't match. They appear to have done well with their growth during good economic times. We'll see if that kind of growth by acquisition will help them survive the next economic downturn. Boating, like other luxury items, is usually the first to feel the pinch. Flexibility and low overhead are usually the traits that allow companies to survive a downturn. Larger companies have a harder time being flexible, are less able to reduce their overhead costs and are slower to react to changing market conditions.

[Scott Rosen]

Alan,

I've often questioned the wisdom of those in the recreational boating business who think that by expanding into more geographical areas they will achieve economies of scale and greater profits. That model works extremely well for a businesses like McDonald's, oil companies and may work for retail department stores (maybe not--check out all of the recent Chapter 11 filings by national retail chains) but judging by market performance, not so well for Waste Marine.

Problem with this model is that the West Marine brand name is not associated with any particular product. Nor does West have an exclusive right to sell any significant products. You can't get a BigMac at the local diner, but you can get a Garmin GPS at your locally owned chandlery. West's generic brand cleaners and paints aren't exactly going to be the next "BigMac" of the boating world. In other words, if someone else opens a store down the street and offers lower prices, greater conveience, better service or any combination of those, then West would have little advantage in that locality. That's the situation here in coastal Connecticut. Boaters have lots of choices, and West is just one of many. It's also the case that in my neck of the woods, West is not necessarily the most convenient. I'm closer to a Boaters' World than to a West, and Boaters' World sells at the same price or less than West. Guess where I go on a Sunday morning when I need an extra lifejacket at the last minute? West promotes itself as having greater knowledge and expertise (and in fact their catalog is informative), but how many people will pay more or be inconvenienced for that perceived bit of expertise? Not enough to keep the shareholders happy, I would think.

Here in the Northeast, we have a chain of marinas operated by Brewers. I believe that Brewers is a privately owned company. Their idea is that by purchasing or affiliating with many marinas alond the coast, they can offer services and get economies of scale that a sinlge local marina can't match. They appear to have done well with their growth during good economic times. We'll see if that kind of growth by acquisition will help them survive the next economic downturn. Boating, like other luxury items, is usually the first to feel the pinch. Flexibility and low overhead are usually the traits that allow companies to survive a downturn. Larger companies have a harder time being flexible, are less able to reduce their overhead costs and are slower to react to changing market conditions.

[Alan D. Hyde]

Scott, what you say makes sense, but they're the only physical presence we have around here, aside from a few much higher priced boat-dealers and marinas.

Alan

[Alan D. Hyde]

Scott, what you say makes sense, but they're the only physical presence we have around here, aside from a few much higher priced boat-dealers and marinas.

Alan

[Alan D. Hyde]

Scott, what you say makes sense, but they're the only physical presence we have around here, aside from a few much higher priced boat-dealers and marinas.

Alan

[Jonathan Kabak]

I thought I would throw my two cents in.

A couple of weeks ago I had the joy of passing on an important bit of nautical knowledge to someone. How to inflate a fender. It happend to be to the three West Marine staff who sold it to me and broke three needles trying to inflate a fender with a removable plug valve. On the other side of the coin there are some West stores that are amazing. Key West has a staff that has serious knowledge and know how. I have discussed everything from amp hours to cordage with them and was always impressed.

Like anything it all depends on how seriously one takes their job. When a sixteen year old kid is managing the West Marine on the weekends you are going to get frustrated. Although West Retail is $ I must confess I am a big fan of Port Supply. Their staff on the phone is great and they are timely. Hamilton up in Maine is perhaps a shade better but with a Port supply account I can walk into any West and charge what I need, or get it sent to a particular store at the next port. Everything is a trade off I suppose.

My 2 Cents

[Jonathan Kabak]

I thought I would throw my two cents in.

A couple of weeks ago I had the joy of passing on an important bit of nautical knowledge to someone. How to inflate a fender. It happend to be to the three West Marine staff who sold it to me and broke three needles trying to inflate a fender with a removable plug valve. On the other side of the coin there are some West stores that are amazing. Key West has a staff that has serious knowledge and know how. I have discussed everything from amp hours to cordage with them and was always impressed.

Like anything it all depends on how seriously one takes their job. When a sixteen year old kid is managing the West Marine on the weekends you are going to get frustrated. Although West Retail is $ I must confess I am a big fan of Port Supply. Their staff on the phone is great and they are timely. Hamilton up in Maine is perhaps a shade better but with a Port supply account I can walk into any West and charge what I need, or get it sent to a particular store at the next port. Everything is a trade off I suppose.

My 2 Cents

[Jonathan Kabak]

I thought I would throw my two cents in.

A couple of weeks ago I had the joy of passing on an important bit of nautical knowledge to someone. How to inflate a fender. It happend to be to the three West Marine staff who sold it to me and broke three needles trying to inflate a fender with a removable plug valve. On the other side of the coin there are some West stores that are amazing. Key West has a staff that has serious knowledge and know how. I have discussed everything from amp hours to cordage with them and was always impressed.

Like anything it all depends on how seriously one takes their job. When a sixteen year old kid is managing the West Marine on the weekends you are going to get frustrated. Although West Retail is $ I must confess I am a big fan of Port Supply. Their staff on the phone is great and they are timely. Hamilton up in Maine is perhaps a shade better but with a Port supply account I can walk into any West and charge what I need, or get it sent to a particular store at the next port. Everything is a trade off I suppose.

My 2 Cents

[Scott Rosen]

So how do you inflate a fender?

[Scott Rosen]

So how do you inflate a fender?

[Scott Rosen]

So how do you inflate a fender?

[cs]

West Marines stock as of July 19, 2001 is back up to $10.56

[cs]

West Marines stock as of July 19, 2001 is back up to $10.56

[cs]

West Marines stock as of July 19, 2001 is back up to $10.56