Internet and Mail Order Advertising Policy

PADI believes that the professional retailer represents a vital link with the diving consumer. Further, we believe that the sale of life support scuba and snorkeling equipment (i.e., regulators, computers, submersible pressure gauges, watches that include depth gauges or computers, depth gauges, dive computers, tanks, mask, fins, snorkels, exposure protection suits, and buoyancy compensators) should be conducted by authorized dealers.

Removing the professional retailer from the sales process increases the chances for accident or injury as well as diminishes the overall scuba experience for the diving consumer. PADI Retailers are dedicated to providing unparalleled training and assuring satisfaction with the proper fit, comfort, and utility of equipment purchases which can only be assured by hands-on professional service.

Therefore, PADI will not accept advertising in any of publications, websites or other media which promote the direct sale of scuba and snorkeling equipment from manufacturers and circumvent the dealer. Manufacturer advertising in all media are required to promote their dealer network online as the primary source for acquiring scuba diving life support equipment. Manufacturers are allowed to create online storefronts for their dealers to help facilitate sales and are required to adhere to the following:

Provide a shopping cart unique to each of their dealers showing the purchase of products being made from said dealer

Prominently direct consumers to their nearest dealer to facilitate in-store purchase promoting the consumer/dealer relationship

Dealer Search and/or Dealer List should be made available online for the consumer at all times

If at any time it is deemed that the manufacturer is not complying with the true spirit and intent of this business mode designed to facilitate the retailer/consumer relationship, PADI reserves the right to terminate and/or reject any advertising.

Advertising from PADI Retail and Resort members who offer direct sales via internet, phone, or mail will be accepted. At its editorial discretion, PADI reserves the right to reject any ad at any time.