Tyler Durden put it best, "The things you own, end up owning you."

In the 70s, my uncle fresh out of University for Engineering was asked to design a component for a household appliance. He created the design, blueprint, specs, and materials. His boss instantly rejected the design, saying it was "too durable", "We have an entire service department with thousands of employees. If we made all of our parts this durable, we would not make revenue on service, and these people would also be out of a job."

I'd also say; reducing durability and quality just below your competitor allows you to undercut your competitors on price, and win the sale. Consumers today expect very little. When things are purchased on an easy credit/debt transaction, rather than hard-earned money - people are less likely to search reviews and ensure they are buying a quality product. Easy money, weak consumers.