So, let's just say EVERYTHING had a MAP. Every store sells the same products, for the same price. Sounds like... Cuba? Soviet Union?

Competition drives consumer prices down, making everything more affordable for consumers. LFSs are always going to be more expensive than MD. You pay a premium for getting right away - and that's to be expected. And this went on long before the internet. Back many moons ago when I worked at a LFS, we had competition from mailorder houses. "That Fish Place" - which is still around - could get you products in just a couple of days.

BTW, I thought most MAP pricing is in place for advertising ONLY. You can sell it at any price you want? I've found quite a few marine (boat) products that have a MAP for public pricing, but that can be purchased for less.