I would guess that the dealer is feeling that the internet sales/'mass produced' machines are taking some of what he/she feels is their rightful business.
Also most likely the 'mass produced' machines referred to are actually produced in greater numbers than the more expensive 'dealer' machines. Doesn't make one intrinsically better or worse because of the volume of production of a particular machine in my opinion. I've come across or heard about 'lemons' in either category - but not very many.
If a machine fits your budget, does what you need it to do and works well for you, that's the main concern, not where you purchased it or how much you paid.