Rent-to-own News - Bestway hits 90 stores with Buddy's acquisition

Bill Alexander, manager store #131 Chattanooga unveiling the Bestway banner.

Dallas-based Bestway Rent-To-Own expanded its presence in the Southeast last week with the acquisition of three Buddy’s Home Furnishings stores in the Chattanooga market. 

"We are excited about acquiring these three Buddy's franchise stores, which puts us currently at 90 stores and soon to open number 91, early this fall," said David A. Kraemer, president and CEO of Bestway. "We are fortunate to have great people, who provide the resources and fuel for our growth. We are constantly on the lookout for acquisitions and/or new stores that can either fill a strategic void where we currently do business, or stores that will provide solid rural or metropolitan coverage where we desire future expansion."

The week prior to the acquisition, Bestway wrapped a very successful district manager’s meeting along with a high-energy “war room” event. This event proved to be the most successful in the company’s history.  During the three days of meetings, the DM’s were able to get out to watch a Frisco Rough Rider’s baseball game, socialize with vendors and meet team “Sisters for a Cure” a group of Bestway women who walk the "Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure" event each year.

Kris Swift, regional vice president of Bestway Region 2, noted the Chattanooga acquisition provided a growth opportunity that would continue to strengthen the Bestway system.

"We are very excited about the people and potential in each store,” said Kris Swift,  “The addition of these three stores bolsters our footprint in the Chattanooga market and continues to solidify Bestway's place as the largest independent rent to own company in the country. The fun part is watching the stores and people grow when we put Bestway programs and processes in place. It's an exciting time for us as a company and we look forward to our next opportunity to grow."

With 90 stores located in Kentucky, Indiana, Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina and North Carolina, Bestway is currently the largest independent rent to own company in the United States operating company stores.