This could also be wholesale customer returns to a contract reprocessing facility, and instead of their destruction, the goods are being diverted and sold. This is not an uncommon fraud scheme.
All in all, I say everyone need to make a living, and I'd rather support the legitimate businesses. Then again, if I feel I am being price gouged, I will take my business elsewhere.
Again, this is where selection of your tub AND dealer should blend together.