Plugging in automated components sends revenue to the component manufacturer (the corporation) and does not depend on skilled repair personnel.
Repairing mechanical (or electrical) devices and components depends on skilled labor, and doesn't necessarily send revenue to the manufacturer (the corporation).
Manufacturing cheap products overseas makes it more likely that owners will replace the whole unit (e.g., new cheap vacume, new cheap washing machine) rather than to repair a better-manufactured unit, which depends on skilled labor.
The above assessment comes from recent discussions with (1) an appliance repair store owner and (b) a 25+ year independent auto mechanic. Both believed that there is a concerted effort on many fronts to eliminate skilled repair personnel who do not contribute to manufacturer profitability.