Target carries an Eddie Bauer brand. I have the 22" that I bought there about 3 years ago, so it's been on 6 European trips and still looks new. Weighs 6.5 pounds. Sells for $69 but is often on sale. Love it.

I think it is really quite simple: a lot of people believe that their luggage is just as sturdy as Tumi, just as durable, etc., and costs a lot less regardless of where it was constructed.

I personally don't hang around gate areas or luggage carousels looking at what people are carrying and judging them accordingly which is probably why I use ordinary old Briggs + Riley luggage.