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Unfortunately I agree with the others about the competition you face from online. I just bought carb kits from SIM and also bought some parts from online sales for repairs to a nail gun and a chainsaw.

I had tried to support my local Stihl dealer for a new pull cord. I had committed to paying $7 +- after seeing it online for $1.45 which just seemed stupid cheap. Got to store and the cord was $21.
Ordered online last Thursday and it was in my mailbox when I got home today.

It appears to be an exact replacement for my original 50 year old cord.

Sorry for the sidetrack, back to boats. The business, to be viable would have to sell to not only retail but to small shops that "need it now" as they have torn apart a customers boat, found a need for parts unexpected, and want to get the job done. That market could make your idea much more workable.

I think a better question for you to ask is of the shops in your area where they buy. Guys on this thread including me are willing to wait for the delivered stuff at a better price.