An LFS is retail so I don't understand how they could hike it above what they sell it for? I think they raise the price more than that above wholesale due to operating costs, shipping, labor, doa, etc...etc...
I don't think the issue was if you could get it cheaper online. I think that is pretty much fact. But what about when you have a pump or equipment failure that you need something asap? If you don't buy from the LFS and he goes out of business where would you but that equipment when it is an emergency?