Who Makes the Kenmore Brand? Unveiling the Manufacturer Behind the Name
The Kenmore brand, once synonymous with Sears, is now owned by Transformco. However, Transformco doesn’t actually manufacture the appliances themselves; they license the Kenmore name to various manufacturers.
The Evolution of Kenmore: A Brief History
Kenmore, a brand deeply rooted in American households, has a long and complex history. For decades, it was the flagship appliance brand of Sears, Roebuck & Co. Customers trusted Kenmore for its reliability and affordability. However, with Sears’ decline and eventual bankruptcy, the fate of Kenmore hung in the balance.
The brand was eventually acquired by Transformco, an entity formed from the assets of Sears Holdings. This marked a significant shift in the brand’s identity, moving it from being exclusively a Sears product to being available through a wider range of retailers. The core change is the licensing of the brand, rather than direct manufacturing.
Licensing: The Key to Understanding Kenmore’s Production
Instead of manufacturing Kenmore appliances itself, Transformco licenses the brand name to different manufacturers. This allows Transformco to focus on brand management and marketing, while leveraging the manufacturing expertise of established appliance makers.
The manufacturers, in turn, produce appliances under the Kenmore brand name, adhering to specific quality standards and design specifications set by Transformco. This approach allows for flexibility and access to a wider range of product offerings.
Identifying the Actual Manufacturers
Pinpointing the exact manufacturers behind specific Kenmore appliances can be challenging, as this information isn’t always publicly disclosed. Furthermore, the manufacturer can change from year to year, or even within the same product line. Some of the companies historically known to produce Kenmore appliances include:
- Whirlpool: Known for making Kenmore refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers.
- LG: Historically responsible for Kenmore dishwashers and some refrigerator models.
- Electrolux: Previously manufactured Kenmore ovens and ranges.
- Cleva North America: Manufactures Kenmore vacuums.
It’s important to note that these relationships can change. The easiest way to identify the manufacturer of a specific Kenmore appliance is to:
- Check the appliance’s model number.
- Google the model number.
- Look for a manufacturer’s code stamped on the appliance itself, usually on the back or underneath.
Benefits of Brand Licensing for Kenmore
The licensing arrangement offers several benefits:
- Access to Expertise: Transformco can tap into the manufacturing expertise of established appliance makers.
- Flexibility: The company can easily adjust its product offerings by partnering with different manufacturers.
- Reduced Capital Investment: Transformco avoids the significant capital investment required to operate its own manufacturing facilities.
- Wider Distribution: Kenmore products can be sold through various retailers, expanding their reach beyond Sears.
Potential Drawbacks of Brand Licensing
While licensing offers benefits, it also presents some potential drawbacks:
- Quality Control: Maintaining consistent quality across different manufacturers can be challenging.
- Brand Dilution: A perceived decline in quality from any licensed manufacturer can damage the overall Kenmore brand reputation.
- Customer Service: Dealing with warranty claims and customer service issues can be complicated when multiple manufacturers are involved.
Common Misconceptions About Kenmore
Many people still associate Kenmore solely with Sears, leading to some common misconceptions:
- Kenmore is only sold at Sears: While historically true, Kenmore appliances are now available at other retailers.
- Kenmore appliances are manufactured by Sears: Sears never directly manufactured Kenmore appliances; they contracted with other companies.
- Kenmore appliances are of lower quality now: Quality can vary depending on the manufacturer of a specific appliance. It’s crucial to research individual models before purchasing.
Tips for Buying Kenmore Appliances Today
Here are some tips to consider when purchasing a Kenmore appliance:
- Research the Manufacturer: Identify the actual manufacturer of the specific appliance you’re interested in.
- Read Reviews: Look for reviews from other customers to gauge the appliance’s performance and reliability.
- Compare Prices: Compare prices from different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
- Consider the Warranty: Understand the warranty coverage and who to contact for service.
- Check the Model Number: Use the model number to verify specifications and features.
Understanding Kenmore Model Numbers
Decoding a Kenmore model number can provide valuable information. The first three digits of the model number often indicate the manufacturer. For example, a model number starting with “790” usually indicates it was manufactured by Whirlpool. A model number starting with “796” is typically an LG product. Understanding this coding can help you make a more informed purchase decision.
Navigating Kenmore’s Future
The future of the Kenmore brand depends on Transformco’s ability to maintain quality control and brand reputation across its licensed manufacturers. By focusing on delivering reliable and innovative products, Kenmore can continue to be a trusted name in the appliance market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happened to Sears and how did it affect Kenmore?
Sears, facing financial difficulties and declining sales, filed for bankruptcy in 2018. This led to the sale of many of its assets, including the Kenmore brand, which was acquired by Transformco. The bankruptcy of Sears fundamentally changed how and where Kenmore products are sold.
Are Kenmore appliances made in the USA?
Not all Kenmore appliances are made in the USA. Some are manufactured in other countries, depending on the licensed manufacturer. Check the product specifications or look for a “Made in USA” label if origin is important to you.
Is Kenmore still a good brand?
The quality of Kenmore appliances can vary depending on the manufacturer. While the brand once had a reputation for reliability, it’s essential to research specific models and read reviews to assess their current quality. Don’t rely solely on the Kenmore name; investigate the specific appliance.
Where can I buy Kenmore appliances?
Kenmore appliances are available at various retailers, including Sears, Amazon, and other online and brick-and-mortar stores. They are no longer exclusively sold at Sears.
Who do I contact for warranty service on my Kenmore appliance?
The contact for warranty service depends on the specific appliance and the terms of the warranty. Check your warranty documentation for instructions. Often, service is handled directly by the manufacturer, not Transformco.
How can I find the manufacturer of my Kenmore appliance?
Check the model number on the appliance. The first few digits often indicate the manufacturer. You can also look for a manufacturer’s code stamped on the appliance itself, typically on the back or underneath. Use the model number and a search engine to quickly identify the manufacturer.
Are Kenmore parts still available?
Yes, Kenmore parts are generally still available through various online retailers and appliance parts suppliers. Finding parts is usually not a significant issue.
What is the future of the Kenmore brand?
The future of Kenmore depends on Transformco’s ability to maintain quality and innovate. Continued strong brand management is crucial. Successful licensing partnerships are key to Kenmore’s long-term viability.
Does Kenmore offer smart appliances?
Yes, Kenmore offers a range of smart appliances with features like Wi-Fi connectivity and app control. These features are often integrated through the licensed manufacturer’s technology.
How does the Kenmore brand compare to other appliance brands like Whirlpool or LG?
The quality and features of Kenmore appliances are directly tied to the manufacturers producing them. A Kenmore appliance made by Whirlpool will likely be comparable to a Whirlpool-branded appliance in terms of quality and performance. Focus on comparing the specific appliance’s features and reviews, regardless of the brand name.
What should I look for when comparing Kenmore models to other brands?
Focus on features, performance, reliability, and price. Read reviews from other customers and compare warranty terms. Don’t automatically assume Kenmore is inferior or superior; evaluate each model individually.
Is it possible for the same Kenmore appliance to be manufactured by different companies at different times?
Yes, the manufacturer for a specific Kenmore appliance model can change over time. This is due to Transformco’s licensing agreements. Always verify the manufacturer of the specific appliance you are considering before purchasing.