Sears Takes Jenn-Air From Lowe's, Home Depot

By Alan Wolf -- TWICE, 11/5/2009

Hoffman Estates, Ill. - Sears will become the sole national retailer of Jenn-Air appliances after the new year, supplanting existing distribution deals between the super-premium Whirlpool brand and Lowe's and The Home Depot.
Sears, the nation's No. 1 appliance retailer, said it will introduce 17 Jenn-Air refrigerators, dishwashers and cooking products by mid-month at 255 of its largest stores. Jenn-Air will continue to be available to independent dealers and regional chains.
The move blunts market share gains by the home-improvement channel, and presents Sears with a prestige kitchen collection just as consumers begin planning their holiday entertaining.
Price points for the luxury line run as high as nearly $10,000 for some built-in refrigerator models.
Sears has recently beefed up its high-margin premium portfolio with the addition of Bosch appliances and the expansion of its private-label Kenmore Elite collection.
"Sears continues to listen to our customers who have voiced their desire for a super-premium line," said Sears' home appliances president Doug Moore. "Our relationship with Jenn-Air to carry its luxury line of kitchen appliances is another great example of how we continue to enhance our brand offerings."