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Is Kenmore Still in Business? The Phoenix Rises from the Ashes

Yes, Kenmore is indeed still in business, although its current form is quite different from its heyday as the flagship appliance brand of Sears. While Sears’ bankruptcy in 2018 significantly impacted Kenmore, the brand was ultimately acquired by Transformco, an entity controlled by Eddie Lampert (the former CEO of Sears Holdings). Under Transformco’s ownership, Kenmore appliances are primarily sold through online retailers like Amazon and occasionally through retail partnerships, a marked shift from its traditional brick-and-mortar distribution through Sears stores. The brand is actively evolving, focusing on rebuilding its image and expanding its product offerings while navigating a changed retail landscape.

Kenmore’s Journey: From Sears’ Darling to Independent Brand

Kenmore’s story is inextricably linked to that of Sears, Roebuck and Co. For decades, Kenmore appliances were synonymous with quality, reliability, and the quintessential American home. However, the decline of Sears led to uncertainty about Kenmore’s future. Let’s delve into how Kenmore survived the Sears collapse and what its current operations look like.

The Sears Era: A Legacy of Appliances

Established in 1913 by Sears, Kenmore quickly became a household name. Its appliances were known for their durability and innovative features, often manufactured by other established brands like Whirlpool but rebranded under the Kenmore label. The brand benefited immensely from Sears’ extensive retail network, becoming a staple in American homes for generations. For many, a Kenmore appliance was a symbol of quality and trust.

The Bankruptcy of Sears and the Sale of Kenmore

Sears’ long and protracted decline culminated in bankruptcy in 2018. As part of its restructuring efforts, Sears sold the Kenmore brand to Transformco for $400 million. This acquisition marked a turning point for Kenmore, separating it from its historical anchor and forcing it to forge a new path in the market.

Kenmore Under Transformco: A New Chapter

Under Transformco’s ownership, Kenmore has undergone significant changes. The brand no longer relies solely on Sears stores for distribution. Instead, it has embraced online retail, primarily through Amazon, allowing it to reach a wider customer base. Transformco has also focused on introducing new Kenmore products, often sourced from different manufacturers than those of the Sears era, and exploring strategic retail partnerships to expand its reach.

Where Can You Buy Kenmore Appliances Today?

While the iconic Sears store is no longer the go-to place for Kenmore, there are still several avenues for purchasing Kenmore appliances:

Amazon: This is currently the primary online retailer for Kenmore products, offering a wide selection of appliances, from refrigerators and ovens to washing machines and dishwashers.
Retail Partnerships: Kenmore has entered into partnerships with other retailers, though these partnerships may vary depending on location and product availability. Keep an eye out for Kenmore displays in other appliance stores.
The Kenmore Website: While the Kenmore website may not offer direct purchasing options for all products, it serves as a central hub for product information, specifications, and customer support.
Sears Outlet Stores: While Sears has significantly reduced its retail footprint, some Sears Outlet stores may still carry Kenmore appliances, often at discounted prices.

The Future of Kenmore: Navigating a Competitive Market

Kenmore faces a challenging but potentially rewarding future. As an independent brand, it must compete with established appliance manufacturers in a crowded market. Its success will depend on its ability to:

Rebuild Brand Trust: While Kenmore still enjoys a degree of brand recognition, it must reassure consumers about the quality and reliability of its current appliances.
Innovate and Differentiate: Kenmore needs to develop unique product features and designs that set it apart from its competitors.
Strengthen Distribution Channels: Expanding its retail partnerships and optimizing its online presence are crucial for reaching a wider audience.
Provide Excellent Customer Service: Ensuring customer satisfaction through reliable service and support is essential for building brand loyalty.

The story of Kenmore is one of resilience and adaptation. While its relationship with Sears has fundamentally changed, the brand has managed to survive and is actively working to redefine its place in the appliance market. Whether it can recapture its former glory remains to be seen, but Kenmore is undeniably still in the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Kenmore

Here are some frequently asked questions about the current state of Kenmore:

Who owns Kenmore now? Kenmore is currently owned by Transformco, an entity controlled by Eddie Lampert.
Are Kenmore appliances still made in the USA? Not all Kenmore appliances are made in the USA. While some may be, many are manufactured overseas by various companies contracted by Transformco. The specific manufacturing location can vary depending on the appliance model.
Is Kenmore a good brand? Historically, Kenmore was known for its reliability and quality. However, with the change in ownership and manufacturing, the perception of the brand’s quality has shifted. Reviews can be mixed depending on the specific appliance and model. It’s important to research individual products before purchasing.
Where can I find Kenmore appliance repair services? You can find Kenmore appliance repair services through independent appliance repair companies, online directories, and the Kenmore website, which may provide links to authorized service providers.
Are Kenmore and Sears the same company? No, Kenmore and Sears are no longer the same company. Kenmore was sold to Transformco during Sears’ bankruptcy. Sears continues to exist, but with a much smaller retail footprint.
Does Kenmore still offer warranties? Yes, Kenmore appliances typically come with warranties. The specific terms and duration of the warranty can vary depending on the appliance model and retailer. Be sure to review the warranty information carefully before purchasing.
Can I still use my Sears credit card to buy Kenmore appliances? It depends on the terms and conditions of your Sears credit card and where you are making the purchase. Check with your credit card provider for the most up-to-date information.
Are Kenmore Elite appliances still available? Yes, Kenmore Elite appliances are still available. This line represents the higher-end appliances offered by the Kenmore brand.
What is the best way to compare Kenmore appliances to other brands? Compare specifications, features, customer reviews, and price points. Consider factors such as energy efficiency, warranty coverage, and repair availability. Online resources like Consumer Reports and appliance review websites can be helpful.
Where can I find Kenmore appliance parts? You can find Kenmore appliance parts through online retailers specializing in appliance parts, independent appliance repair companies, and the Kenmore website, which may provide links to authorized parts distributors.
Is Kenmore planning to open new retail stores? As of now, there are no widely publicized plans for Kenmore to open new standalone retail stores. The focus remains on online sales and retail partnerships.
How has the quality of Kenmore appliances changed since the Sears bankruptcy? The perceived quality of Kenmore appliances has varied since the Sears bankruptcy. Some consumers report satisfaction with newer models, while others express concerns about the quality compared to older Kenmore appliances manufactured during the Sears era. It is essential to research specific models and read reviews before making a purchase.