Who Owns Kenmore Appliances?

Whirlpool Corporation is one of the world's largest manufacturers of home appliances, serving millions of consumers globally through its diverse brand portfolio and comprehensive distribution network. The company operates through multiple brand divisions and business segments, each targeting different market segments, price points, and geographic regions. Whirlpool's commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability has established it as a trusted leader in the home appliance industry for over a century.

In 2025, Whirlpool Corporation navigated a challenging macroeconomic environment while demonstrating operational resilience and strategic execution. The company reported net sales of $15.5 billion, with GAAP net earnings of $318 million and GAAP earnings per diluted share of $5.66. Despite market challenges, Whirlpool achieved ongoing EBIT of $729 million with a 4.7% margin, and ongoing earnings per diluted share of $6.23. The company executed $200 million in structural cost take-out initiatives to mitigate the impact of tariffs and maintain operational efficiency.

Whirlpool's business operations are organized into three main segments: Major Domestic Appliances (MDA) North America, MDA Latin America, and Small Domestic Appliances (SDA) Global. In 2025, MDA North America generated $10.2 billion in net sales, representing the company's largest geographic segment. MDA Latin America contributed $3.6 billion in net sales, while SDA Global added $1.7 billion. This diversified geographic presence helps Whirlpool balance regional economic conditions and market opportunities.

The company's brand portfolio represents one of its most significant competitive advantages, encompassing multiple well-known appliance brands that serve different consumer segments and price points. Whirlpool (mass-market appliances), KitchenAid (premium kitchen appliances), Maytag (value-oriented appliances), Kenmore (Sears private label), and Café (premium brand) form the core of the company's domestic portfolio. Internationally, Whirlpool owns Indesit and Hotpoint, which serve European markets with strong brand recognition and market presence.

Innovation remains central to Whirlpool's strategy, with the company consistently introducing industry-first technologies and features that enhance consumer convenience and appliance performance. In 2026, Whirlpool highlighted portfolio-wide innovation at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), showcasing breakthrough technologies including industry-first nugget ice built into refrigerators, UV Clean laundry sanitation, Live Look in-camera technology and Doneness Detection in KitchenAid wall ovens, and XL crisper drawers from Maytag. These innovations demonstrate Whirlpool's commitment to developing solutions that improve home living while maintaining high standards of quality and reliability.

Whirlpool's global manufacturing network spans North America, Mexico, Brazil, Europe, and Asia, enabling efficient production and distribution to markets worldwide. The company maintains significant research and development operations focused on appliance innovation, energy efficiency, and smart home technology integration. Whirlpool's investment in R&D has positioned it as a leader in connected appliances, energy-efficient products, and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Financially, Whirlpool has demonstrated resilience in managing working capital challenges and maintaining operational efficiency. In 2025, the company generated cash provided by operating activities of $467 million and free cash flow of $78 million, despite significant working capital demands from record-level product refreshes and operational shifts due to tariffs. For 2026, Whirlpool projects cash provided by operating activities of approximately $850 million and free cash flow of $400-500 million, with plans to pay down approximately $400 million of debt.

The company's strategic focus for 2026 includes successful product launches, reduced promotional intensity, and gradual recovery of the housing market. Whirlpool's confidence in future performance is based on its recent successful product introductions, operational improvements, and strategic cost management initiatives that position the company for sustainable growth and profitability.