[DManA]

I have heard, now this might be a urban legend, that appliance manufacturers make special versions of their brand name products with cheaper components specially for the deep discounters. Is this true?

[Bushman2]

The manufactures do make their products for other retailers, i.e. Sears, but with the retailers specifications. In some cases the parts may be less quality than their own brand name.

[x_plus_one]

Janome has made Sear Kenmore sewing machines for years and the machines are first quality but less pricey than the higher end Janome....