Why is sodium bicarbonate so expensive at pool stores?

[raterus]

I'm stocking up on sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda) this year. It seems the cheapest option, by far are 13.5lb Arm & Hammer bags at Sams Club for $6.88 a bag. I'm surprised pool stores aren't even competitive with this price, it's nearly 3x the price at a pool store, for the same store. In fact, Sams club sells the same stuff in their pool section at the higher price. I know it's the same stuff, just different names.

Anyone know how to explain the markup here?

Thanks,
Michael

 

[gtnos]

because the pool store stuff is special for pools.....

markup because they can my friend. soda is soda, I get mine at walmart.

 

[Casey]

You're paying for the beautiful pictures and names on the labels.

 

[Richard320]

Somehow they have to recoup the cost of performing free testing!

 

[JasonLion]

In areas like most of Florida and Texas where there are many many swimming pools and the market is more competitive, you will see much more reasonable pricing at some (but hardly all) of the pool stores.

 

[woodyp]

THIS Texan sure hasn't seen any of that!