Kenmore is a name that has been trusted in American households for more than a century. Known for producing reliable home appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, ovens, and vacuum cleaners, Kenmore became a staple brand for generations. However, with changing market dynamics and the decline of its long-time partner Sears, many people are left asking: Is Kenmore still in business? This article explores the history, struggles, current status, and future of Kenmore to provide a clear picture of where the brand stands today.
A Little Background about Kenmore
In 1913, Kenmore was launched as a Sears-only brand. Over the years, it became synonymous with quality, affordability, and durability. The brand built a reputation for offering reliable appliances that were accessible to middle-class families. Sears’ nationwide presence helped Kenmore gain a strong customer base, and for decades, it was one of the top appliance brands in the United States.
Kenmore didn’t manufacture its own products. Instead, appliances were produced by leading companies like Whirlpool, GE, and Frigidaire under the Kenmore name. This approach allowed Kenmore to offer competitive pricing and innovation without running its own factories. For much of the 20th century, Kenmore was a household favorite.
Is Kenmore Still in Business?
The short answer is: yes, Kenmore still exists, but it is no longer the powerhouse it once was. The downfall of Sears, which filed for bankruptcy in 2018, significantly impacted Kenmore’s visibility and sales. Since Sears was the primary retailer of Kenmore products, the brand lost its biggest distribution channel almost overnight.
Despite this setback, Kenmore has not disappeared. The brand continues to exist, with its appliances available online through Amazon, Lowe’s, and other retailers. However, its market presence is much smaller, and many consumers are unaware that Kenmore products are still available for purchase.
Current Status of Kenmore
Today, Kenmore operates as a licensed brand rather than a manufacturer. Transformco, the parent company that took over Sears’ assets, still owns Kenmore. The brand primarily relies on third-party retailers and online marketplaces to reach customers.
Kenmore appliances are still being produced, but on a much smaller scale compared to the past. The lineup includes refrigerators, washers, dryers, dishwashers, and microwaves, among other products. While Kenmore is technically still alive, it functions more like a shadow of its former self.
Kenmore Current Struggles: Inventory, Slow Sales, Bad Timing
One of Kenmore’s biggest challenges has been inventory management. With Sears gone, Kenmore lost its built-in retail network, making it harder to distribute and sell products efficiently.
Additionally, slow sales have been a recurring issue. Competing with giants like Samsung, LG, and Whirlpool has proven difficult, as these brands have stronger global marketing and advanced technology features.
Bad timing has also played a role in Kenmore’s struggles. The decline of Sears coincided with a major shift in the appliance industry toward smart appliances and energy-efficient designs, areas where Kenmore has been slower to innovate.
What Are the New Plans and Features?
To stay relevant, Kenmore has attempted to modernize its product lineup. In recent years, the brand has introduced smart home technology in appliances, such as voice-controlled features and app integration. These upgrades aim to compete with tech-savvy brands like Samsung and LG.
Kenmore has also shifted its focus to online retail channels. By partnering with Amazon and promoting through digital platforms, the brand hopes to reach younger, tech-savvy customers who shop primarily online. These efforts show that Kenmore is trying to adapt, but the road ahead is still uncertain.
Alternatives of Kenmore
For shoppers looking for alternatives to Kenmore, several brands dominate the appliance market today. Whirlpool, LG, Samsung, GE, and Frigidaire are popular options, offering a wide range of products across price points. These companies not only provide quality appliances but also lead in innovation, especially with smart technology and eco-friendly features.
While Kenmore still offers good appliances, many customers now turn to these competitors for better availability, advanced features, and stronger customer support.
Kenmore Roadmap for the Future
Kenmore’s future depends on its ability to reinvent itself in a crowded market. The brand must continue investing in smart technology, form stronger partnerships with major retailers, and rebuild its reputation among younger consumers.
If Kenmore can balance affordability with modern innovation, there is still potential for a revival. However, without a large retail presence or major investment in branding, its growth will remain limited compared to global leaders.
Conclusion
Kenmore is not completely gone, but it is far from the iconic brand it once was. Once a leader in American households, Kenmore now struggles with limited visibility, declining sales, and stiff competition. Still, the brand continues to sell appliances online and through select retailers, showing signs of resilience.
For loyal customers, Kenmore remains a familiar name, but the appliance landscape has changed. The coming years will determine whether Kenmore can adapt and reclaim its spot—or slowly fade into history.
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