Why Some Products Are Marked “No Discounts” (MAP / Price Protected)

 

Some manufacturers set a Minimum Advertised Price (MAP), sometimes referred to as MRP, on certain products. This means all authorized retailers are required to advertise and sell those items at or above a set price. If a retailer ignores this policy, manufacturers can impose penalties, including loss of access to products, reduced allocations, or increased wholesale costs. For us, honoring MAP is not just about compliance. These policies help protect the bowling industry as a whole by preventing large, high-volume sellers from undercutting smaller pro shops that provide in-person service, expertise, and support to local bowlers. Because of these agreements, MAP-protected items cannot be discounted in the cart, through promo codes, or through other workarounds. While some online sellers may try to bypass these rules, we choose to honor both the letter and the intent of these partnerships. Bowling is a relatively small industry, and we believe it’s best preserved by working together. By respecting these pricing policies, we help ensure continued access to quality products, professional services, and a healthier future for the sport.

MAP & Price Protection – FAQ

What does MAP or “Price Protected” mean?
MAP stands for Minimum Advertised Price. It’s a pricing policy set by the manufacturer that requires all authorized retailers to advertise and sell certain products at or above a specific price.

Why can’t this item be discounted?
Because of MAP agreements, these products cannot be discounted in the cart, through promo codes, bundles, or other offers. This applies both online and in-store. If we don’t honor this pricing, manufacturers can impose penalties or restrict our ability to carry their products.

Why does the manufacturer enforce this?
MAP policies help protect smaller pro shops and specialty retailers from being undercut by large, high-volume sellers. This allows local shops to continue offering services like custom fitting, drilling, and expert support rather than competing purely on price.

I’ve seen this product cheaper somewhere else. Why?
Some sellers attempt to work around MAP rules in ways that violate the spirit of the policy. We choose to honor both the intent and the goals of our manufacturer partnerships to help protect the bowling industry and ensure long-term access to products and support.

Do MAP-protected products ever go away?
Yes, manufacturers may temporarily adjust or lift MAP for approved promotions or as a product ages. When that happens, we’re happy to pass those savings along to our customers. 

Can you apply the discount manually or price-match?
We may sometimes still have products listed as price protected in error. Letting us know that you see it available at a lower price may help us update our system. However, if there is still a MAP in place, MAP-protected items cannot be discounted manually, price-matched, or reduced in any way outside of manufacturer-approved promotions. 

Does this help bowlers in the long run?
Yes. MAP pricing helps preserve local pro shops, professional services, and a competitive retail environment. We believe the bowling community is strongest when retailers, manufacturers, and bowlers work together with the shared goal of growing the sport.