Dacor appliances are made by Dacor, which operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics America after being acquired in August 2016.
Dacor is an American luxury kitchen appliance brand with roots in Southern California, founded in 1965, and is best known for its premium ranges, wall ovens, refrigerators, and cooktops.
Samsung Electronics is a South Korean technology and electronics giant headquartered in Suwon, South Korea, and one of the world’s largest consumer electronics companies.
Knowing that Samsung now backs Dacor helps explain how a California luxury brand can combine artisan craftsmanship with cutting edge smart home technology.
This article covers who makes Dacor appliances, where they are produced, who owns the brand, its history, how it compares to a rival, and whether the appliances are any good.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Dacor Appliances?
Dacor appliances are made by Dacor, which operates independently as a Samsung Electronics America subsidiary.
Even after the Samsung acquisition in 2016, Dacor maintained its own engineering, design, and manufacturing teams in California.
Samsung provided financial backing and smart home technology integration, including SmartThings connectivity, while Dacor retained its own luxury identity.
The brand focuses exclusively on high premium kitchen appliances, competing directly with JennAir, Miele, Wolf, and Sub-Zero.
Dacor is also the only major appliance brand to be endorsed by the master chefs of Le Cordon Bleu, the prestigious Paris culinary institute.
Where Are Dacor Appliances Made?
Dacor appliances have historically been made in the United States, with the company’s headquarters and primary manufacturing facility originally located in City of Industry, California.
At the time of the Samsung acquisition in 2016, Samsung confirmed there would be no changes to Dacor’s United States based manufacturing operations.
Dacor distributes its appliances throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico through more than 1,300 authorized dealer showrooms.
As Samsung’s investment has grown, some production and component sourcing may have evolved, so confirming origin on the specific model label is advisable for buyers who prioritize domestic manufacturing.
Who Owns Dacor Appliances?
Dacor is owned by Samsung Electronics America, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. of South Korea.
Samsung acquired Dacor in August 2016 for approximately $150 million, marking Samsung’s entry into the ultra premium kitchen appliance market.
Before the sale, Dacor had been family owned and operated for three generations of the Joseph family since its founding in 1965.
The acquisition terms and background are documented in Samsung’s official announcement.
What Is the History of Dacor?
Dacor, short for Distinctive Appliances Corporation, was founded in 1965 by Stanley M. Joseph in California.
The Joseph family had actually been making kitchen appliances since 1948, starting with a residential ventilation hood, and held multiple US patents on kitchen innovations.
Three generations of the Joseph family were inducted into the National Kitchen and Bath Association Hall of Fame, making them the only family with three inductees, as noted in Dacor’s recorded history.
Samsung acquired the company in 2016 and has since added SmartThings integration and continued expanding Dacor’s premium product lineup, including winning the 2025 LUXE RED Design Award for its 24-inch dishwasher.
Dacor Appliances vs JennAir Appliances: How Do They Compare?
Dacor and JennAir are two of the most prominent American luxury kitchen brands and compete directly in the same price tier.
Dacor emphasizes artisan craftsmanship, seamless flush built-in installation, and deep Samsung SmartThings integration.
JennAir, a Whirlpool brand, focuses on bold design collections, smart connectivity through multiple platforms, and a broad full kitchen suite offering.
Both are excellent choices, and the decision usually comes down to design aesthetic and whether a Samsung or Whirlpool smart home ecosystem is already in place.
Are Dacor Appliances Any Good?
Dacor appliances are well regarded in the luxury kitchen segment, earning consistent praise for their build quality, premium materials, and innovative features.
The brand’s ranges and wall ovens are especially noted for precise temperature control and sleek stainless steel interiors.
Samsung’s backing has strengthened Dacor’s smart home features, with all major appliances now compatible with the SmartThings platform, as covered in recent product coverage.
Entry level Dacor appliances start around $3,500 and can exceed $19,000 for premium refrigerators, putting the brand firmly in the luxury tier.
For buyers who want a California crafted luxury kitchen brand with Samsung smart technology and deep dealer showroom support, Dacor is a compelling choice.
For more on other luxury kitchen brands, see Who Makes JennAir Appliances and Who Makes KitchenAid Appliances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dacor Appliances
Who owns Dacor appliances?
Dacor is owned by Samsung Electronics America. Samsung acquired the brand in August 2016 for approximately $150 million. Before that, Dacor was a three-generation family owned California company.
Are Dacor appliances made in the USA?
Dacor was founded in California and has historically manufactured in the United States. Samsung confirmed no changes to US manufacturing at the time of acquisition, though checking the model label is advisable for the most current origin.
Is Dacor a luxury brand?
Yes, Dacor is a luxury kitchen appliance brand. Its appliances start around $3,500 and can exceed $19,000, competing directly with Sub-Zero, Wolf, Miele, and JennAir.
Does Dacor work with Samsung SmartThings?
Yes, all major Dacor appliances are compatible with Samsung’s SmartThings platform, allowing unified smart home control alongside other Samsung devices.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.