Rent-to-own News - NEW PODCAST: Bob Lawrence, CEO AVB - Brand Source
August 27, 2008
Bob Lawrence is the CEO of AVB-Brand Source, the nation's largest buying group.
In an economic climate that seems awash in grim forecasts, Lawrence exudes an optimism that rests on his belief that "big" is out.
His assessment, "the aggregation of small is the new big," is a shot across the bow at the big box chains that, in Lawrence's opinion, have worn out their welcome in the minds of consumers.
In this exclusive podcast, Lawrence expands on idea of the DIY consumer culture transitioning to a "serve me" culture that bodes well for the specialized brand of customer service only the independent dealer can provide.
Over 3,000 attended the AVB-Brand Source Convention and Buying Show this week at the Paris Casino in Las Vegas where Lawrence told attendees member sales exceeded the industry averages in consumer electronics, appliances and furniture.
Next year, the site will host the APRO Convention and Buying Show which will co-locate with the AVB-Brand Source Convention August 30-September 3, 2009. Read More.
Lawrence discusses some of the factors that went in to the decision to co-locate shows with APRO next year and how the move is a win win for both organizations.
"Our goal is to be the largest home furnishings entity in North America," Lawrence said. "RTO is an important part of that. We need that channel for those customers who need or want to rent, and if we leave that out, we have a big gap in what we are trying to do. So RTO is going to become more and more important to us and it's a category we are going to put a lot of energy into."
Listen to podcast.
mevans@rtohq.org
About APRO
The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations is the official voice of the rent-to-own industry and the most accurate and trustworthy source of rent-to-own news in the industry. Founded in 1980, APRO is the national, nonprofit trade association advocating and representing the rent-to-own industry before the U.S. Congress, state legislatures, courts, media and the public.
For more information, visit www.rtohq.org.
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