Retail is gouging through buy ups and mergers. They have nearly eliminated the competition. The prices are what they say they are. The lack of competition kills price wars. Remember when gas stations had price wars, and gave away green stamps, or cups and glasses. Remember when they pumped gas and checked oil levels? They do not have to because the hundreds of gas companies have been whittled down to few, who control the market. Department stores are down to a few. We have an oligopoly.
Check out cable prices. No real difference. Phones are not competing. Grocery is not worth driving to the next store. Now grocery is pushing another huge buyup. It will not be good for the consumer.