Yes, here we are in 2008 and nothing much has changed. Neither will it, I'm afraid, as far as
gouging is concerned. This sort of thing has been going on for as long as I can remember, and I don't see it changing any time soon. Especially when purchasers fall for the sort of deal mentioned by Jonathan above. I'm depressed!
Regarding the exclusive contracts that Robert mentions. Yes, this is a popular ploy by our beloved manufacturers. I'm wondering if there's an opportunity here to source parts from the United States, where the market is, shall we say, a little more open, and third-party vendors are often available.
