Bruce in Bangkok wrote:

For what its worth:
We had a project some 15 years ago where the client specified
"snap-on, or equal" so we ordered snap On - some $150,000 worth. As I
result I got to meet the Asian Rep who when asked about the high cost
of their tools blamed Product Liability Insurance for a substantial
part of the cost of a Snap On wrench.

You sure it isn't the distribution system?

Snap-on, 8 mpg truck with franchisee drives to each sale, cost embedded in
product.

Sears, mpg doesn't matter, customers drive their car, truck or van.

Wes