How many manufacturers remain absolutely dedicated to "brand name quality" over the decades? Some do, but lots of things can weaken that resolve, whether new ownership, or some retailer waving more money. I have even known family-owned business to end up cheapening products, after the family members who started the company retired or died.
And subbing out manufacturing of parts or complete products to foreign manufacturers isn't exactly a new concept.


“Montana seems to me to be what a small boy would think Texas is like from hearing Texans.”
John Steinbeck