When a manufacturer can dramatically increase the number of widgets they sell by partnering with a major-retailer then it’s a win/win for both the manufacturer and for the major-retailer. Right?
Though, that relationship could have some downsides for the manufacturer. If the major-retailer-widgets cost much less than the manufacturer’s widgets, then the manufacturer may lose some sales. Solution: Don’t make the latest technology available to the major retailer Provide only recent technology that the manufacturer can no longer sell.
The used/trade-in market for major-retailer-widgets could become so cheap that the manufacturer may also lose some sales in favor of used widgets. Solution: Lock them and don’t allow resale of used widgets.
Makes good business sense, eh? Though maybe not so good for PPL who buy used;