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Rent-to-own News Archives from July 2010
High Touch, Special Olympics team up this weekend
[July 30, 2010] More than 400 athletes from around the state will gather in Wichita July 30 thru August 1 for the annual Special Olympics Kansas State Softball and Golf Tournament. This is the second year the Tournament will be played in Wichita. High Touch, Inc. is the presenting sponsor and has been working on planning the logistics of the Tournament since ...

Shuler, Peters open second Nebraska Premier store
[July 30, 2010] Mike Shuler and Heath Peters Mike Shuler and Heath Peters opened their second Premier store in Nebraska this summer in Hastings. The partners have branched out from their successful Kearney location, which was opened in November 2008 and has done “incredibly well” according to Shuler. With 26 years of combined service to the Central Nebraska rental market, Shuler ...

Countryside prevails in latest RTO "Battle of Ohio"
[July 30, 2010] Gary Ferriman presents Mike Tissot with the "Battle of Ohio" trophy in their periodic company competition to gain customers. Gary Ferriman of Showplace Rent to Own recently awarded Mike Tissot of Countryside Rent to Own the "Battle of Ohio" trophy in their periodic race for customers in the Buckeye State. In the most recent store-to-store customer growth ...

Consumer electronics sales outpacing projections
[July 29, 2010] The Associated Press recently reported that the rapid sales of new gadgets such as Apple's iPad and Amazon.com's Kindle have prompted an industry trade group to raise its projections for sales to retailers to $174.9 billion. The Consumer Electronics Association said Thursday that revenue for electronics manufacturers is projected to grow 3 percent over last year, up ...

Home Express opens second New Albany location
[July 29, 2010] Home Express Sales and Lease announces the Grand Opening of the newest location in New Albany, Indiana. The grand opening celebration is scheduled from Saturday July 31st at 10:00 am at 2325 Green Valley Road, at the corner of Green Valley and Daisy Lane. Home Express Sales and lease is a local chain of retail stores offering an exciting ...

Rent-A-Center exceeds earnings guidance, announces cash dividend
[July 29, 2010] Rent-A-Center, this week announced revenues and earnings for the quarter ended June 30, 2010. Total revenues for the quarter ended June 30, 2010, were $671.5 million, a decrease of $8.1 million from total revenues of $679.6 million for the same period in the prior year. This decrease in revenues was primarily attributable to the November 2009 ...

Aaron's Q2: Same store revenues up 2.4%
[July 29, 2010] Aaron's this week announced revenues and earnings for the three and six months ended June 30, 2010. For the second quarter of 2010, revenues increased 7% to $445.0 million compared to $417.3 million for the same quarter a year ago. Net earnings from continuing operations were down 12% to $24.4 million versus $27.8 million in ...

Woodhaven Furniture Industries announced as new name for Aaron's furniture plants
[July 23, 2010] Aaron's announced today that it has changed the name of its 11 furniture and bedding manufacturing plants from MacTavish Furniture Industries to Woodhaven Furniture Industries. The name change is synonymous with the Woodhaven brand of products the Company manufactures and accompanies a move toward greater green practices within the manufacturing process. A full rebranding effort including a new logo ...

Briley is new APRO President
[July 22, 2010] New APRO President Robert Briley. The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations Board of Directors Thursday, elected Robert Briley as the association's new president. Briley, who currently serves as first vice president, succeeds outgoing president "Tiger" John Cleek who was elected APRO's president the past two years. In the board meeting, members also elected Cynthia Strunk first vice president, ...

Quinn is APRO Lifetime Achievement Award Winner
[July 22, 2010] Kevin Quinn, APRO's 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner, with grandson Keagan Conder. Kevin Quinn, owner of Tacoma-based Quality Rentals Wednesday, was named APRO's 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner at the association's annual awards banquet at the Marriot Hotel in downtown Louisville. The awards banquet was the final social event of the APRO 2010 Convention and Trade Show. Known as ...

Slatton is dealer of the year, Collins is vendor of the year
[July 22, 2010] APRO's 2010 Rental Dealer of the Year, Jamie Slatton (Left) with mother Lois Slatton. The Association of Progressive Rental Organization's annual awards banquet Wednesday, honored rental dealers, vendors and state associations that have gone above and beyond the call of duty for the rent-to-own industry and exude dedication to causes greater than themselves or their personal businesses. APRO President ...

Eight elected to APRO Board
[July 21, 2010] During the APRO's general session, July 21 at the association's 2010 Convention and Trade Show in Louisville, Kentucky, association members elected eight candidates to the APRO board of directors including reinstalling a 20-year past board member and adding a fresh face, new to the board. Board members serve staggered two-year terms and half of the positions become open each ...

APRO General Session kicks off in Louisville
[July 21, 2010] L to R: Kathy Windsor, Shannon Strunk, Ernie Lewallen and Trent Agin with keynote speaker Jeremiah Wilson at APRO's general session Wednesday. Close to 300 rent-to-own dealers from across the country packed the main Marriott Ballroom in Louisville, Kentucky today, for the general session of APRO's annual Convention and Trade Show where they reflected on the year's achievements, celebrated ...

NEW VIDEO: David Lane, APRO's 2010 Employee of the Year
[July 21, 2010] Larry Carrico, APRO 2010 Employee of the Year David Lane, Premier franchisee Mike Lewis and Premier Companies CEO Trooper Earl. Click here to watch David Lane Video. Today the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations formally honored David Lane, a sales assistant for Premier Rental Purchase of of Goshen, Indiana, with the association's 2010 Employee of the Year award for ...

NEW VIDEO: Cordillia Stewart wins top APRO Scholarship
[July 21, 2010] Click to watch Cordillia Stewart video. The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) today honored Cordillia Stewart, a junior at Drury University. where she is pursuing a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology and Criminology, with a specially produced video in commemoration of her winning a $3,000 scholarship from APRO's Scholarship Foundation. Watch video. Stewart, an assistant manager for ...

NEW VIDEO: Louise Brown, APRO's 2010 Customer of the Year
[July 21, 2010] Click here to watch Louise Brown video. Louise Brown, a pillar of community service in her hometown of Portsmouth, Virginia, is the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations' (APRO) 2010 Customer of the Year and today was honored at the general session of the association's annual convention and trade show in Louisville, Kentucky with a specially produced video shown to ...

RAE 'Best of Show' Winners Announced
[July 21, 2010] The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations today announced its first ever "Best of Show" winners in the association's annual Rental Advertising Excellence competition. The two winning "Best of Show" ads -- a first ever designation to commemorate APRO's 30th Anniversary -- were selected from the 26 in-house and agency produced ad materials that had already earned the ...

APRO Convention heads to Churchill Downs
[July 20, 2010] L to R: Steven, Kelly, Sharon and Larry Carrico at APRO's Churchill Downs Social Event Tuesday. Hundreds of rent to own dealers, vendors, family and friends donned festive hats and headed to historic Churchill Downs Tuesday night for an evening of networking and camaraderie as part of APRO's 2010 Convention and Trade Show in Louisville, Kentucky. The event topped ...

Rent-A-Center names new VP's
[July 20, 2010] Eric McCartney is new Vice President of Fleet Management: Rent-A-Center today announced the appointment of Eric McCartney to vice president of fleet management. Reporting to Dave West, executive vice president of operational services, McCartney is charged with developing and implementing the strategy for design requirements, replacing and reselling, fleet maintenance and fuel programs for Rent-A-Center's fleet of vehicles. "...

APRO Rental Roundtable offers three track RTO education
[July 20, 2010] Chuck Simms leads a room of more than 200 rental dealers Tuesday. The Association of Professional Rental Organizations today, kicked off the educational component of its annual convention and trade show with a new three-track training program meant to help rent to own professionals at a variety levels take their careers to new heights. Attendees today broke into three ...

Texas named most improved state association
[July 19, 2010] Dave Edwards (left) presenting TARA President William Mcrae and several TARA board members APRO's "most improved state association award". The Texas Association of Rental Agencies (TARA) earned APRO's most improved state association award at a special president's reception Monday eventing hosted by outgoing APRO President "Tiger" John Cleek. The event was the first formal gathering of APRO's ...

APRO golfers tee off convention in Louisville, results announced
[July 19, 2010] APRO Golf Tournament first place team L to R: Doug Funk, Mike Goodin, Keith Selby, Kelly Ireland. Some 92 golfers from across the rent-to-own spectrum -- dealers, vendors, employees and family members -- officially kicked off The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations' (APRO) 2010 Convention and Trade Show Monday in Louisville with the annual Tom Kitchens/Joe Eason Golf Tournament ...

APRO 2010 Convention kicks off in Louisville
[July 19, 2010] The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) today kicks of its annual 2010 Convention and Trade Show today with Tom Kitchens/Joe Eason Golf Tournament in Louisville, celebrating the rent to own association's 30th anniversary. The convention, which is highlighted by a number of educational sessions, receptions and awards banquets honoring outstanding members of the industry, runs July 19-22. The ...

American Rental show, picnic a family affair
[July 17, 2010] L to R: Cindy Ferguson, David P. David, Shelly Martinek and Bill Keese at the American Rental Trade Show Saturday. The 20th annual American Rental/Full-O-Pep product training and pig roast kicked Saturday at the Seasons Hotel Conference Center in Nashville, Indiana. Managers from across American Rental's 47-store chain flocked to the event Saturday morning for up-to-date trainings on key ...

Rent One, vendors raise $27K for charities at annual event
[July 17, 2010] One of several Rent One "Day on the Diamond" teams. Mt. Vernon, Illinois based Rent One last week put the "fun" in "fundraising" generating more than $27,000 for Ronald McDonald House and other charities at the company's annual Day on the Diamond Vendor appreciation event this week at Rent One Park July 14 and 15. ...

American Rental Annual Pig Roast set for Saturday
[July 15, 2010] Tori Hunt, 9, rides the mechanical bull at American Rental's 2009 hog roast. The 20th annual American Rental/Full-O-Pep product training and pig roast commences tomorrow at the Seasons Hotel Conference Center in Nashville, Indiana. Managers from across American Rental's 47-store chain will flock to the event Saturday morning for up-to-date trainings on key products followed by a full blown ...

IContain and APP team with T-Mobile for real-time default, theft solutions
[July 14, 2010] IContain, a leading developer of asset protection solutions, and Asset Protection Products (APP), a solutions provider in the asset security market, today announced IContain’s ICX cellular-controlled power interrupt switch has shown tremendous success in collecting payments from delinquent accounts in the rent-to-own (RTO) industry over an eight month test period. For the $7 billion RTO industry, theft and ...

ColorTyme supports youth through FFA and 4-H
[July 14, 2010] ColorTyme, a rent-to-own franchising company, recently purchased a prized pig at the Henderson County Livestock Show. More than a charitable donation to the show’s youth exhibitors, the purchase marks a corporate tradition maintained for over two decades. Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the livestock show gave FFA and 4-H young exhibitors the opportunity to present their market-ready ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: AMCASE
[July 13, 2010] Today’s Home Entertainment Products want to hang, swivel, surround, thump and dazzle! A sleek, well organized display environment to showcase every pixel and decibel will make your store the number one destination for TV, Audio and more. AMCASE has developed modular solutions for complete RTO store interior packages including Electronics and Appliance store fixturing. Your display system should ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Asset Protection Products
[July 13, 2010] Asset Protection Products LLC (“APP”), the RTO industry’s only “One Stop Shop” for asset protection solutions, will make its long anticipated debut at the upcoming APRO Convention. Launched by industry notables Terry Beville, Jamie Slatton, Michael Gerwe, Joe Gazzo and Salvatore Moccia, APP will be providing revolutionary solutions to the challenges faced by every RTO ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: ContactPoint
[July 13, 2010] While other keynote speakers pack a notepad and pen, Jeremiah places a one inch thick board in his briefcase. Traveling the United States, Jeremiah Wilson’s not so ordinary keynote address has created quite a buzz over the unusual presentation. This year’s APRO (Association of Progressive Rental Organizations) 2010 keynote address should have the same effect as Wilson ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: DAC Products
[July 13, 2010] DAC Products, the designer and producer of wood, sewn and various other products has announced a consolidation and considerable new investments into their Rural Hall facility. The integration process is expected to be complete by the end of the third quarter 2010. In conjunction with an immediate $250,000 to $300,000 outlay of equipment, they will be transferring ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: eTax Partners
[July 13, 2010] Since 1988 eTax Partners has helped businesses increase profitability by offer the most comprehensive tax preparation services in the industry. What makes eTax different. eTax provides tax preparation services to more than 600 partners across the country. There are no sign up, training, or software fees. Offering tax preparation services to your customers takes only minutes. This allows you ...

High Touch donation improves YMCA efficiency
[July 13, 2010] Imagine, you just piled the kids in the car. They’re hungry and a bit cranky. It’s definitely time for a nap, but you dare not say it out loud. As you go over the list of chores waiting for you at home – dinner, dishes, laundry, kids’ baths – you head to the Y to sign the ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Fine Art Express
[July 12, 2010] Fine Art Express is a division of a 40 year old wall décor vendor supplying all of the top furniture stores, chains, and mass markets. We are excited to be one of APRO’s newest members, with hopes to establish mutual relationships with many of its’ members. We are based in California, with factories in Mexico. We are ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Florida State Games
[July 12, 2010] Do your sales people know the differences between HD Blu-Ray DVD’s and HD DVD’s? How about the bells and whistles offered by the latest video game systems? Florida State Games exudes excitement, facts and passion for the future of a new era of interactive video gaming aimed at new audiences. We can teach your sales people to ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Protect-A-Bed
[July 12, 2010] Protect-A-Bed, a premier provider of mattress and box spring encasements for the consumer and professional market, is showcasing its line of Bed bug and waterproof products to the Rent to Own industry during the APRO 2010 Conference. Protect-A-Bed will attend APRO (Booth # 110) to showcase their mattress and box spring encasements to the industry and offer education about ...

APRO Special Products Services Focus: SA IT Services
[July 12, 2010] SA IT provides a broad range of Information Technology services to small, medium, and large businesses across North America, and has earned a reputation of exceptional service, efficiency, and flexibility. SA IT offers Break/Fix support for desktops, laptops, servers, printers, POS devices, and many associated computer peripherals, regardless of the manufacturer or age of the equipment. Our depot services ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: TRIB Group
[July 12, 2010] TRIB Group is the nation’s oldest and most respected buying group. Dedicated solely to the RTO industry since 1983, TRIB Group is a member owned and member run organization. The staff at TRIB Group invites all APRO Convention attendees to visit their booth, #313, during the show. We gladly welcome all current members and those RTO dealers looking ...

Rent-A-Center donation to benefit children at Hornell YMCA
[July 12, 2010] Children at the Hornell YMCA, a recent recipient of Rent-A-Center donations. Rent-A-Center helped strengthen the sense of community for the residents that attend the Hornell YMCA. Representatives from Rent-A-Center stores from throughout the area delivered and assembled more than $5,000 in electronics and furniture to the Hornell YMCA as part of the company’s Random Acts of Caring ...

NEW WEBSITE: Rent-to-Own State Associations get connected
[July 12, 2010] The web remains a vital resource for rent-to-own companies, customers, and vendors. To promote online involvement on the state and local levels, the Association for Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) recently teamed with Imagery Marketing Group to offer local associations affordable websites of their own. Each state-level website ties into the national APRO site (rtoassociations.org), highlighting events and legislative ...

APRO Software Focus: Cynergi
[July 9, 2010] High Touch, Inc. and subsidiary RSSS have announced that they are on target for the completion of Cynergi and fully committed to the release date announced in January. “Our teams are working diligently and making visible progress,” says Ellison Crider, RSSS general manager. The highly anticipated product will allow rent-to-own operators more flexibility in the way that ...

APRO Software Focus: Drake
[July 9, 2010] Drake Software offers a quality product at a great value, providing over 33,000 tax professionals the tools they need for a successful tax season. All packages, including office management tools, tax research, accounting and payroll are included for one price with no hidden fees or costly add-ons. And Drake Software is more than a great value, it’s ...

APRO Software Focus: VersiRent
[July 9, 2010] Is your current RTO software holding you back and preventing you from taking full advantage of your business opportunities? Does your current RTO software make you run your business its way (the way its creators decided it should perform its tasks)? VersiRent (www.VersiRent.com) is the most versatile RTO software in the world today, and it can be ...

Premier franchisee sends managers to Disneyland
[July 9, 2010] Premier store managers Peyson Wiers (far left) and Tylor Davis (far right) with their families at Disneyland last month. Two lucky Premier store managers, Payson Wiers and Tylor Davis, earned trips to Disneyland in Anaheim, California this June as a gift from franchise owner John Reichenbach. Reichenback, who owns two Premier Rental Purchase stores in Auburn and Westbrook, Maine ...

RAE Award Winners Announced
[July 9, 2010] The rent-to-own industry's longest held advertising competition this year again honors the best in the business naming the top radio, television, print, creative campaign, community relations, and Internet advertising campaigns created over the past year. A selection of APRO's 2010 Rental Advertising Excellence Award Winners are as follows: TELEVISION IN HOUSE (Productions less than $1,000): Gold -- RimTyme ...

APRO Computers/Electronics Focus: D&H Distributing
[July 9, 2010] D&H Distributing, the major one-stop resource for an array of merchandise including computer products, consumer electronics, home entertainment solutions, housewares, small appliances, and console video games invites Rent-to-Own dealers, store owners and managers to visit the D&H APRO Trade Show booth #518 at the APRO Show. The event will take place July 19 to 22 in Louisville, ...

APRO awards $8K in scholarships
[July 2, 2010] The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations is proud to announce the four students receiving APRO’s Educational Scholarships. This is the first year the association is awarding multiple scholarships. The opportunity was made possible after the non-profit APRO Scholarship Foundation reached its initial fundraising goal of $100,000. The following are the winners of APRO’s 2010 Educational Scholarship. ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Brooks Furniture
[July 2, 2010] APRO Furniture Focus: Brooks Furniture Brooks Furniture introduces their new 53 Series post back glider rocker that features a new casual look with details such as solid end panels and apex back cushions that provide a unique style and a true value. Visit Brooks Furniture online here. The 53 Series has a plush tufted back and arm pads for ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Coaster Company
[July 2, 2010] Thank you for your ongoing support of Coaster Company. By now, most of you should have received the Coaster Rental Dealer specialty catalog. Download here. It is available in print, email, and soon via our web portal for Coaster Connect. The catalogue was conceived by rental dealers, and integrated into our inventory control model by our executive team. It ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Dimplex
[July 2, 2010] In the fast-growing home entertainment category, finding the right blend of fashion and function can be the key to driving sales. An innovative landscape electric firebox is the focal point in the Novara, a stylish and tech-savvy media console electric fireplace from Dimplex, the world leader in electric fireplaces. “When a family is searching for a new flat-panel ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Donco Trading Co.
[July 2, 2010] Donco Trading Company will feature it's latest creation at the APRO Convention and Buying Show -- the new mattress ready, solid wood, mission style stairway bunkbed. Donco is a furniture importer specializing in juvenile furniture from child to teen; bedroom sets to staircase bunks. The company, founded in 1992, features centralized warehousing, same Day Shipping for APRO members and ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Comfort Chair by MAC Motion
[July 2, 2010] A new concept in motion seating will take place at the APRO show in July, Comfort Chair by MAC Motion. This newly designed program is tailored for the RTO Industry and allows a replacement for the dominating bubba recliner. The swivel reclining chair comes with a matching ottoman which is enclosed in one UPSable carton. The designs are those ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Purdue Furniture
[July 2, 2010] Perdue Furniture Inc. is a family owned and operated USA manufacturer of quality built, competitively priced adult and youth bedroom groups, media stands, bookcases, and accent chests. In addition, we offer a popular stand-alone chest program. Perdue offers many product features that appeal to both the dealer and consumer. Our products are bench made in our 175,000 square ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Simmons
[July 1, 2010] Do you want to increase your mattress sales? Do you want one of the most recognizable names in the Furniture Industry on your floor? Do you want more steel? Less movement? Better conformability? Product training and full advertising campaigns. A dedicated Customer Care Department and bedding regulation expertise. The Simmons Mattress Company has been in business since 1870 and ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Twin Star
[July 1, 2010] Entertainment is popular year-round in the rent to own industry, and for Twin-Star International, providing RTOs with quality entertainment components from their versatile product lines is a foundational aspect of their business. “Our entertainment products have been a huge success,” said Alexia Rouquette Mays, director of marketing and public relations for Twin-Star. “It’s a growing ...

Reports show economic recovery is still struggling
[July 1, 2010] Reports show economic recovery is still struggling. Unemployment claims are up, home sales are down and manufacturing growth is slowing. New claims for unemployment benefits jumped by 13,000 to a seasonally adjusted 472,000, the Labor Department said Thursday. The four-week average increased to 466,500, its highest level since March. As jobless claims grow and benefits shrink, ...

David Lane is APRO's 2010 Employee of the Year
[July 1, 2010] David Lane, a sales assistant for Premier Rental Purchase of of Goshen, Indiana, is the Association of Progressive Rental Organization's 2010 Employee of the Year, demonstrating selfless deeds within his community that represent the best of the rent to own industry. Lane made headlines last year when he spearheaded an initiative to open the doors of his store so ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from June 2010
Aaron's shuts down office furniture division
[June 29, 2010] Aaron’s Monday announced it is ceasing the operations of its Aaron’s Office Furniture division and reducing its 2010 earnings guidance. During the second quarter the Company closed all but four of its Aaron’s Office Furniture stores and plans to have the remaining stores closed by September 30, 2010. It is anticipated that the Company’s pre-tax ...

APRO Applicance Focus: Crosley
[June 29, 2010] Crosley is excited to introduce new models in refrigeration, cooking, and laundry categories. Dealers and consumers will see new designs and higher end features, while recognizing many of the base features that drew them to Crosley in the first place. Many new Energy Star models will enter the lineup, as well. REFRIGERATION: Dealers will be pleased to see the ...

APRO Applicance Focus: GE
[June 29, 2010] GE CustomerNet is the ultimate online resource for GE appliance information. This innovative customer service resource makes doing business with GE appliances easier and is FREE to all customers. GE CustomerNet gives you the ability to place orders, check pricing, check availability, obtain product specifications (Product Library), product training, view invoices up to 24 months old, obtain proof of ...

APRO Appliance Focus: Speed Queen
[June 29, 2010] Speed Queen Home, an Alliance Laundry Systems brand, has provided commercial-quality laundry equipment for home use for more than 100 years. It continues to offer the best warranty in the business. Products used in the rent-to-own industry need to withstand excessive wear and tear and frequent relocation. Speed Queen’s unparalleled durability and exceptional warranty assurance make it the ...

APRO Appliance Focus: Whirlpool
[June 29, 2010] Whirlpool will be showing a complete rental line-up with products from Whirlpool, Estate, Amana and Maytag. The focus will be on the new top load laundry assortment on display, including the new high efficiency 7000 and 5000 series Whirlpool Cabrios, the Maytag Bravos, and front load laundry. A sleek new Whirlpool SXS will also make its first rental appearance ...

Louise Brown is APRO's 2010 Customer of the Year
[June 28, 2010] APRO's 2010 Customer of the Year Louise Brown. Louise Brown, a pillar of community service in her hometown of Portsmouth, Virginia, is the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations' 2010 Customer of the Year. Brown has been a customer of Virginia-based BestWay Rent To Own for 20 years. "I am choking up right now," Brown said from her ...

APRO Computers/Electronics Focus: Silko Radio
[June 28, 2010] Silko Radio has been in business for over 40 years specializing in refurbished consumer electronics with an emphasis on Sony laptops, digital cameras, and small electronics including several brands of GPS devices and LCD TV's and home theatre systems. Silko Radio has four warehouse distribution centers in the U.S. The company will continue its Dealer Reward Program which, ...

APRO Computers/Electronics Focus: O'Rourke Sales Company
[June 28, 2010] O’Rourke Sales Company, proud to be an APRO sponsor, continues to excel in the rent-to-own industry by offering dealers a complete one-stop-shop solution for their rental customer’s needs. O’Rourke Sales Company stocks cutting edge technologies offered by LG, Mitsubishi, JVC, DELL, Kenmore, Speed Queen, Crosley and others. These prestigious vendors offer products that are most desired ...

APRO Computers/Electronics Focus: LG Electronics
[June 28, 2010] From super slim LED HDTVs with 3D capability to advanced thin-bezel plasma screens to Network Blu-ray Disc players delivering streaming online content, LG Electronics is bringing its latest technologies to APRO 2010, Booth # 117. A proud 29-year member of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations, LG will showcase its new flagship INFINIA series of LED LCD and Plasma ...

Rent-A-Center spells good news for Omaha Tribe of Nebraska
[June 28, 2010] With help from the Rent-A-Center Random Act of Caring initiative, the Omaha Tribal Council will be better able to serve the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska. Rent-A-Center is donating the following items: • Three desktop computers • Sofa and loveseat • Two washers • Two dryers • Seven TV’s These will be used in their nursing home, Women, Infants ...

New RTOHQ: The Magazine: A 'Winn' for the industry
[June 28, 2010] By APRO Executive Director Bill Keese, As we gather in Louisville to celebrate 30 years of association history, we should recognize that there has been one constant since the beginning of APRO: Ed Winn III. Ed wrote the original bylaws, incorporated the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations, served as its first executive director, serves the industry as APRO’s ...

APRO's Employee of the Year finalists announced
[June 27, 2010] The Association of Progressive Rental Organization's annual "Academy Awards" of RTO narrowed this week to five outstanding finalists in the employee of the year category. Again this year, employee of the year finalists represent the best of the industry. Louis Carpenter of Portsmouth, Virginia has been an employee with Bestway Rent To Own for 14 years and currently ...

Premier announces 2010-2011 purchasing, marketing boards
[June 27, 2010] Following elections at their 2010 Dealer Retreat in Chicago earlier this month, The Premier Companies announced its 2010-2011 Premier Purchasing Cooperative Board and its 2010-2011 Premier Rental-Purchase Marketing Board. Both seven-person boards are dealer run and hold annual elections of three members to replace those rotating off. The following Premier dealers will serve on this year’s Purchasing Board: ...

RTO vet and 'guy's guy' John Allevato dies
[June 25, 2010] John Allevato with daughter Jenna (left) and son John on Father's Day. Respected industry leader John Allevato, 48, died Wednesday night surrounded by friends and family at Lewisville Memorial Hospital in Lewisville, Texas, ending a two year battle with cancer. Allevato, who most recently served as vice president of RIMCO, leaves behind a wife, Linda, 4 year-old daughter Jenna, ...

Downtown Louisville offers variety of cultural, historic, and entertainment options
[June 24, 2010] Click to download PDF of downtown Louisville map. While at the APRO Convention & Trade show, you’ll be within walking distance of a host of interesting museums, galleries, historic sites, and fabulous restaurants. Some that you won’t want to miss: The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, The Frazier International History Museum, The Muhammad Ali Center, Hotel/Museum 21C, ...

APRO Customer of the Year finalists selected
[June 24, 2010] The Association of Progressive Rental Organization's annual "Academy Awards" of RTO narrowed this week to four outstanding finalists in the customer of the year category. Again this year's entries represent the best of the industry. Louise Brown has been a customer of Virginia-based BestWay Rent To Own for 20 years. A retired cook, Brown and her husband, have ...

National TV Sales and Rentals kicks off in-store literacy program
[June 24, 2010] Librarian Heidi Lanz (L) and Kathy Windsor (center) lead a "coloring" session at National TV's first ever "Reading, wRiting and Rent to own" storytime Wednesday. Lebanon, Missouri-based National TV Sales and Rental Wednesday, planted the seedlings of what the company hopes will expand into a literacy program shared by rent to own companies across the country. Around ...

Countryside team volunteers for differently-abled campers
[June 24, 2010] Jason Salyers and Bill Hall, along with Kamp Dovetail campers and volunteers take a boat ride on Rocky Fork Lake. By 8:30 a.m. the summer storm had passed. As the skies cleared on Wednesday, and the temperature and the humidity both raced towards 90, over 10 percent of the Countryside Rentals workforce was already in place to lend ...

Rent-A-Center wins Supreme Court arbitration case
[June 23, 2010] In a 5-to-4 decision, Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court sided with Rent-A-Center in an decision that is a win for employers who want to resolve disputes with employees in the most efficient manner possible. The ruling in Rent-A-Center West Inc. v. Jackson saw the court rule in favor of Rent-A-Center's push to have an arbitrator, and not a ...

RentDirect Nationwide partners with Support Squad to improve RTO customer experience
[June 23, 2010] RentDirect Nationwide, the rental division of Nationwide Marketing Group, announced today that Support Squad is now a supported vendor for their more than 350 rent-to-own member dealers across the country. Support Squad provides remote and phone based technical support to assist customers resolve issues with their personal computers, PC-related components, virus, and SPAM security. According to James MacAlpine, Executive ...

ColorTyme Summer Meeting concludes with sea-themed closing dinner
[June 22, 2010] To mark the end of the ColorTyme annual Summer Meeting, employees, franchisees and vendors joined for a Closing Dinner at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa. See photo gallery here. The event featured dinner, a live band, palm reader, caricaturist and a spray tattoo artist. Attendees also played for prizes with games including a sea-animal ring toss, ...

APRO to provide four scholarships this year
[June 22, 2010] Because of the level of donations and amount in the Scholarship fund, the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations will this year award four scholarships as part of its annual educational mission In addition, an "Anonymous Donor" matched this year's scholarship amounts. This year’s amounts are as follows: 1st place - $3000 2nd place - $2000 3rd place ...

Brighthouse opens 200th store
[June 22, 2010] BrightHouse, the UK’s leading rent-to-own retailer, today announces details of its accelerated store opening programme in the UK as the company this weekend opened its 200th store in Bedford. That store opening was quickly followed by its 201st and 202nd store openings in Andover and Orpington. These stores will be quickly followed by BrightHouse’s 203rd and 204th ...

New room block reserved for APRO Convention
[June 22, 2010] Didn’t get your room for APRO Convention yet? Although the APRO room block at the Marriott Louisville Downtown has sold out, you’re in luck. APRO has reserved an additional block of rooms at the nearby Springhill Suites Louisville Downtown at the discounted rate of $112 per night. This is a new, all-suites hotel located 1.5 blocks ...

ColorTyme tees off with summer golf tournament
[June 19, 2010] Following a successful buying show at the ColorTyme Summer Meeting, more than 130 attendees enjoyed a day of leisure with activities including the annual Willie Talley Golf Tournament. This year, the tournament was played at Raptor Bay Golf Club in Bonita Springs, Florida. Named after the founder of ColorTyme, the Willie Talley Golf Tournament is a tradition celebrated by ...

Heartland wraps high energy show and seminar with awards banquet
[June 18, 2010] Golf winners at the Heartland of America Awards banquet Wednesday night. The Missouri Rental Dealers Association rounded out its Heartland of America Regional Trade Show and Seminar with an Awards Dinner on the evening of June 16, followed by a full morning of training sessions on June 17. These events, along with a Buddy Bass Tourney, GolfTournament, Trade Show ...

DAC plant consolidation to enhance efficiencies
[June 18, 2010] DAC Products, the designer and producer of wood, sewn and various other products has announced a consolidation and considerable new investments into their Rural Hall facility. The integration process is expected to be complete by the end of the third quarter 2010. In conjunction with an immediate $250,000 to $300,000 outlay of equipment, they will be transferring ...

Last chance to reserve room for convention
[June 18, 2010] The deadline for making your hotel reservations at the Marriott Louisville Downtown is Monday, June 21. However, the APRO room block is getting close to being sold out so reserve your room today! Make your reservations online here or call 800/533-0127. Don’t forget to register for the convention also and book your airline travel with your favorite travel ...

ColorTyme retreat launches with general session
[June 17, 2010] Charlie and Becki Doege. The general session for ColorTyme's 2010 Dealer Retreat at Bonita Bay, Florida, Thursday included company, industry and legislative updates from key officials at both ColorTyme and parent company Rent-A-Center. ColorTyme CEO Bob Bloom opened the session and welcomed around 135 franchisees, vendors, friends and family. Bloom was followed by Mitch Fadel, Rent-A-Center president who foretold ...

High Touch promotes Jason Mock to director, research and development
[June 17, 2010] Jason Mock of High Touch. High Touch, a technology solutions provider, has promoted Jason Mock to Director of Research and Development, a new division recently added to meet client demands. The announcement was made by Wayne Chambers, High Touch CEO/president. Mock has 10 years of technology experience, including founding a cellular phone company while completing college. Mock has worked ...

ColorTyme retreat kicks off in Bonita Springs
[June 16, 2010] L to R: Brian Duke (O'Rourke Sales Company), Mike Wood (LG), Thomas Seago (ColorTyme Corporate), Joe O'Rourke (O'Rourke Sales Company), Nicole Chanovich (Archbrook Laguna) The Country's oldest rent-to-own franchise company kicked off it's annual franchisee getaway this year in Bonita Springs, Florida today with a vendor appreciation reception. Around 135 franchisees, vendors, friends and family will enjoy a much ...

NEW PODCASTS: Heartland companies keep it "all in the family"
[June 16, 2010] National TV Sales and Rental's family. In a recent issue of RTOHQ: The Magazine, APRO's General Counsel Ed Winn III observed that today's rent-to-own companies increasingly are family-run businesses. Gone are those dealers who were in it primarily to make a quick buck; they've been replaced by business men and women keen on nurturing a company in which their ...

Heartland golf tournament winners announced
[June 16, 2010] Tiger John Cleek Jr. (Cleek's), Jeff Dowdy (Cleek's), Larry Nilges (ALMO Distributing) and TJ Swafford (Ashley Furniture). The winning teams from the annual Heartland of America Regional Trade Show Golf Tournament, held June 16 at The Lodge of Four Seasons, Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri are as follows. First-place team: Tiger John Cleek Jr. (Cleek's), Jeff Dowdy (Cleek's), Larry ...

NEW PODCAST: "Tiger" John Cleek Jr.
[June 16, 2010] MRDA President "Tiger" John Cleek Jr. Click to listen to podcast. "Tiger" John Cleek Jr. is serving his fourth and final year as MRDA president. In this exclusive podcast, Cleek shares some of his thoughts on the evolution of the MRDA Heartland of America Trade Show during his tenure. Listen to podcast....

Golf and bass tournaments rule day two of Heartland Show
[June 16, 2010] Fishing enthusiasts at the Heartland of America Trade Show Annual Bass Fishing Tournament. The weather couldn't have been better for golfers and fishermen who got busy recreating bright and early June 16 at the Missouri Rental Dealers Association's Heartland of America Regional Trade Show's Golf Tournament and Buddy Bass Tourney. Both events, held at the Lodge of the Four ...

MRDA Heartland kicks off three days of work and play
[June 16, 2010] Don Julson (BriteLite), John Rogers (High Touch), John Blair (PTS Tax Services) and Bill Keese (APRO Executive Director). The Missouri Rental Dealers Association kicked off its sixth-annualHeartland of America Regional Trade Show and Seminar at the Lodge ofthe Four Seasons Resort in Lake Ozark, Missouri, on June 15 with aVendor Showcase Reception, featuring 70 vendors representing 57 rent-to-own exhibitor ...

Georgia, Kentucky hosting state association meetings at APRO Convention
[June 15, 2010] The Georgia Rental Dealers Association and the Kentucky Rental Dealers Association will be hosting state association meetings during this year’s APRO Convention. Network with your fellow state dealers, catch up on state business and enjoy a complimentary lunch. Please RSVP by June 25 to provide an accurate lunch count for the events. Georgia RDA meeting Tuesday, July 20 ...

easygates opens third Arkansas store
[June 15, 2010] Bud Gates, Chairman and CEO of easygates, announces the opening of a new easyhome franchise store. This is the third store in Arkansas and opened on June 12 at 2909 E. Nettleton Avenue in the University Plaza Shopping Center in Jonesboro, Arkansas. “We are ecstatic to bring the easyhome concept to Jonesboro, bringing the total number of stores ...

Find the 'Passion to Succeed' at APRO's keynote address
[June 14, 2010] APRO 2010 Keynote Address: The Passion to Succeed, The Power to Break Barriers Jeremiah Wilson, ContactPoint 9–11 a.m., Wednesday, July 21 Sponsored by GE Consumer & Industrial and Simmons This keynote address won’t put audience members on the edge of their seats—it will stand them on the tips of their toes. “The Passion to ...

APRO's 2010 Board of Directors Candidates
[June 14, 2010] During the association’s general session, July 21 at APRO’s 2010 Rent-to-Own Convention and Trade Show in Louisville, Kentucky, nine APRO members will run for eight available positions on the board of directors. Board members serve staggered two-year terms and half of the positions become open each year at the Convention and Trade Show, in addition to any ...

ColorTyme franchisees gear up for annual getaway
[June 14, 2010] America's longest running rent to own franchise, ColorTyme, this week hosts the company's annual getaway and networking retreat at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort at Bonita Springs, Florida June 16-20. Around 135 franchisees, vendors, friends and family will head to the beach for a much deserved week of networking and leisure activities including a golf tournament at the ...

Premier Mid-Year Retreat, open house bookends successful year
[June 14, 2010] The Premier Companies Mid-Year Dealer Retreat and company open house wrapped up last week at the Westin O'Hare in Chicago with around 65 Premier dealers, associated vendors and guests honing their franchising chops in over 15 individual dealer-led breakout sessions. "Our franchisees want to hear from other dealers and they want more data," said Premier franchisee John ...

Employee, customer of the year, scholarship nominees due TODAY
[June 11, 2010] APRO's "Academy Awards" of rent to own -- where outstanding industry personalities will be recognized -- will take place July 21. This is when APRO will recognize the contributions of rent to own employees as well as customers with its annual Employee and Customer of the Year award. APRO this year will also award a $2,000 scholarship ...

Deadline APRO hotel deadline June 21
[June 11, 2010] The deadline for reserving a room at the Marriott Louisville Downtown for the APRO 2010 Convention at the discounted rate is Monday June 21. Haven’t decided if you’re attending yet or not? The education alone is reason enough to be there. Not to mention the legislative updates, industry information, and networking. Don’t forget the fabulous social ...

Heartland of America gears up for sixth annual regional show
[June 10, 2010] Next week the Heartland of America Trade Show marks it's sixth year when hundreds of rent to own dealers and vendors head to Lake Ozark, Missouri, where they will take part in an enviable golfing, fishing, networking and buying bonanza, that distinguishes the show's regional legacy as a value packed company destination. Download show brochure here. Around 140 Rent-to-own ...

RimTyme teams with major league soccer event for rim and tire display
[June 9, 2010] Soccer fans enjoyed a day of food, fun and games with a look at custom wheels Saturday in Frisco, Texas. Parked on location, RimTyme showed off rims and tires at MLS Futbolito, an all-day soccer competition. Futbolito is the largest touring Hispanic event hosted by a U.S. professional sports league. Held at Pizza Hut Park for the third ...

Social, networking events abound at APRO Convention
[June 9, 2010] APRO's 2010 Convention in Louisville features a host of social and networking events with great food and world class entertainment. Always the highlight of the APRO Convention, this year's social and networking events return to tradition with the APRO President's Welcome Reception, a Gala Cocktail Party at Churchill Downs and APRO's 30th Anniversary Awards Banquet and Reception. Joe Eason/Tom ...

FAN Sales and Leasing converts to Aaron's
[June 8, 2010] Geron Vail. FAN Sales and Leasing President Geron Vail, today confirmed his company is in the final steps of converting to an Aaron's Sales and Lease Ownership franchise. The transaction, which will become official once all contract formalities are completed in coming days, includes the sale of six of FAN's 16 stores to Aaron's corporate and to geographically adjoining ...

Mason is new VP of Biz Development for SA IT
[June 8, 2010] Charles Mason III Charles Mason III, a 20 year veteran vendor to the rent to own industry is the new Vice President of Business Development/Depot for SA IT Services and will manage the depot services for the RTO Channel. Mason's years of experience and contacts within the RTO industry will provide SA IT with remarkable insight into this industry, ...

Business beware: many social networks provide companies with user information
[June 8, 2010] Guest editorial by Gene Sacco, President of DATATrue, LLC The recent Facebook debacle that involved a hacker obtaining and selling the log-in information of thousands of users has again placed social network security standards in the spotlight. As more Americans become aware of identity theft risks, more websites are being urged to provide tighter security systems to protect their ...

Convention fashion tips
[June 8, 2010] General attire for the APRO Convention & Trade Show is “business casual” in the exhibit hall, educational seminars and most other events. Go here for some ideas on casual attire. For those special social events, you may choose to “dress it up” a bit. Here are some suggestions: Gala Cocktail Party at Churchill Downs July 20: Kentucky ...

At Rent One work is a family affair
[June 7, 2010] L to R: Rent One's Brian and Murray Beck. Rent One's Murray Beck and son, Brian, were featured in a recent article in the Mt. Vernon Register highlighting the duo's intertwining career paths. Murray Beck is vice president of operations for Mt. Vernon, Illinois-based Rent One and his son Brian Beck, is Rent One's Region 2 manager. They have ...

APRO Convention going to Little Rock in 2011
[June 7, 2010] In keeping with a desire to make it convenient for more rental professionals to attend trade association events, the APRO Board of Directors recently named Little Rock, Arkansas as the host city for APRO's 2011 Convention & Trade Show July 11-14. Steeped in both political history and Southern charm, Little Rock is a cultural destination unlike any other in ...

easyhome to open new store in Austin
[June 4, 2010] Bud Gates, Chairman and CEO of easygates, LLC announces the opening of a new easyhome franchise store. This will be the fourth store in Texas and will open on June 5 at 10:30 Norwood Park Boulevard in the Walmart Super Center in North Austin, TX. “We are ecstatic to bring the easyhome concept to North Austin, bringing the ...

Rent-A-Center celebrates Castle Rock opening with mayor
[June 3, 2010] Rent-A-Center Manager Bobby Weber and his four-person sales team are pleased to offer Castle Rock and the surrounding communities a new option when it comes to acquiring ownership of high-quality furniture, appliances, electronics and computers. “From bedroom sets to washers and dryers, we’re going to help people find what they need and a payment option that works ...

Statistical survey deadline extended to June 14
[June 3, 2010] The deadline for APRO's online statistical survey has been extended to June 14. The survey -- a critical instrument used by financial analysts, investment bankers, legislators and the media to gauge the value of the entire rent to own industry -- needs your company's input. APRO's simplified, online data entry form is now available. Go here to register a ...

APRO's Rental Roundtable -- Three Ways to Learn in Louisville
[June 2, 2010] At this year's Convention and Trade Show, APRO has designed three separate tracks to hone in on a variety of business-enhancing needs based on attendees’ management level and size of the company. The morning of July 20 kicks off at the Marriott Louisville Downtown with APRO’s popular Rental Roundtable. Attendees will break into three groups -- store-level employees/managers, ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from May 2010
Aaron's drives donations for troops
[May 28, 2010] Aaron's and the Armed Forces Foundation (AFF) have united in a collaborative effort to drive donations for military families this approaching Memorial Weekend. Aaron's and the AFF first initiated a text-to-give campaign that allows participants to text AFF to 50555 to donate $10 to the Armed Forces Foundation which serves the military and their families. Ninety-four percent of all ...

Premier Companies announces new marketing director
[May 27, 2010] Williamsburg, Virginia May 27, 2010: The Premier Companies CEO/president, Trooper Earle, today announced Nancy Price as the new Director of Marketing for all the Premier brands. Price replaces Jocelyn Swanson, who is refocusing her attention to Premier’s public relations. Price has more than fifteen years in sales and marketing beginning her career at USA Today. She increased advertising ...

High Touch acquires Kansas City-based IT Pros
[May 25, 2010] High Touch today announced the recent acquisition of IT Pros, a Kansas City-based IT Managed Services provider. IT Pros provides an array of services including PC and server management, remote and on-site services, and data back-up, minimizing day-to-day hassles of managing business technology. According to Kevin Colborn, High Touch Director of Managed Services, the acquisition is a strategic addition ...

Hemmelgarn named national sales director at Protect-A-Bed
[May 25, 2010] Barb Hemmelgarn, new Protect-A-Bed national sales director for RTO and corporate housing. Barb Hemmelgarn has been appointed a national sales director for the Rent-to-Own and Corporate Housing division at Protect-A-Bed, a premier provider of bedding protection products. In her position Hemmelgarn will focus on growing the R.T.O division at Protect-A-Bed, with colleague Rita Haney, by uncovering new ...

Premier Companies open house kicks off June 8
[May 25, 2010] The Premier Companies is counting the days to its Franchising Open House in Chicago June 8 at the Westin O’Hare. For those interested in making a career change by opening their own RTO business, Premier will help them explore the strong benefits and advantages enjoyed by its franchisees: 1) Proven expertise in franchising, available through five programs 2) ...

Retail study shows new opportunities for digital advertising
[May 24, 2010] A new report shows that 92 percent of consumers rely on the web when shopping for products. A recent report by Jones Lang LaSalle "Get Connected -- How to Harness the Power of Digital Media" reports that the digital connections must be integrated as a whole to maximize consumer penetration such as e-mail, social media sites and a ...

Industry statistical survey due Friday
[May 24, 2010] APRO's online statistical survey -- the touchstone used by financial analysts, investment bankers, legislators and the media to gauge the value of the entire rent to own industry -- needs your company's input. APRO's simplified, online data entry form is now available. Go here to register a new account and participate in the most important survey you will take ...

Rental Advertising Excellence Awards early deadline tomorrow
[May 24, 2010] The rent-to-own industry's longest held advertising competition is back. APRO's 2010 Rental Advertising Excellence contest will once again honor the best radio, television, print, direct market and Internet advertising campaigns created for rent-to-own businesses and companies over the past year. In commemoration of APRO's 30th Anniversary, entrants will also compete for a first ever "Best of Show" prize. ...

RSSS Conference attendees push APRO Scholarship Fund past $100K mark
[May 18, 2010] Raof Bishay (center), CTO for American Rental upon learning Rent One's Larry Carrico (right) just auctioned his shirt. RSSS Users' Conference attendees weren't the only ones dealt winning hands at the event's 'Texas Hold Em' night' Tuesday. Rent to own dealers, employees and their children came up the big winners too, as the proceeds of the friendly poker night ...

Chambers, Crider roll out project 'Fusion'
[May 18, 2010] Ellison Crider, general manager RSSS at the company users' conference Tuesday. High Touch President/CEO Wayne Chambers and Rental and Sales Software Systems (RSSS) General Manager Ellison Crider Tuesday, addressed more than 50 RTO dealers outlining project "Fusion" -- a cooperative effort between High Touch and RSSS programmers to combine the best features of the two software systems. Chambers ...

RSSS Users' Conference kicks off in Corpus
[May 17, 2010] Ellison Crider (RSSS), Uzma Powell (High Touch), Larry Carrico (Rent One) at the RSSS Users' Conference in Corpus Christi. RSSS Users from across the country headed to Corpus Christi, Texas, Monday, for the kick off reception for the 2010 RSSS Users Conference where attendees from some 22 rent to own companies will tap in depth discussions on RSSS's moves ...

Aaron's, Atlanta Dream team up to honor local children's hospital patients
[May 17, 2010] The Atlanta Dream and Aaron’s have announced a partnership for the 2010 season which will extend the team’s reach in the community by providing tickets to metro Atlanta youth to attend Atlanta Dream games, and establishing a new community initiative with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. “We could not be happier to have a quality company ...

Rent-A-Center announces key senior management appointments
[May 14, 2010] Rent-A-Center, the nation's largest rent-to-own operator, today announced the appointment of two seasoned executives to newly created senior management positions. Agustín Viola-Prioli: Agustín Viola-Prioli was named vice president, business development. Reporting to Joel Mussat, senior vice president, strategic planning and development, Viola-Prioli brings nearly two decades' worth of domestic and international finance, strategy and general management experience ...

APRO Board nominations due today
[May 14, 2010] Eight seats on the Association of Progressive Rental Organization's Board of Directors are up for election at the general session of APRO's annual convention in Louisville, Kentucky July 21st. Nomination forms should be filled out and returned by fax or email no later than today. All candidates should be contacted and grant consent prior to nomination. Current APRO Board ...

Queen City and Bernie's join Nationwide Marketing Group
[May 13, 2010] Twice today is reporting former NATM Buying Corp. members Queen City and Bernie's have joined the Nationwide Marketing Group. For Queen City, the 11-store CE and appliance chain based Charlotte, N.C., the change marks a return to Nationwide, where it had been a buying group member through much of the 1980s and 1990s. Queen City CEO Roddey Player ...

DAC Products gives back on Mother's Day
[May 13, 2010] A group of DAC employees and family members turned out on the Saturday before Mother’s Day to present roses to all the women residents at Village Care Nursing Home, an elderly care facility in King, NC. Eighty-two red roses were donated and individually delivered to each female resident by the group from DAC. The staff, social director, and ...

Who will be APRO's 2010 Customer and Employee of the year
[May 13, 2010] David Keen of Rent One (center) -- APRO's 2009 Employee of the Year. Watch video. APRO's Employee and Customer of the Year are those customers and employees who inspire, help or sacrifice for the betterment of their families and or communities. If one of your rent to own employees, co-workers or customers represents rent-to-own with such honor and character, ...

Are you paying attention to the 'Millennial' generation?
[May 12, 2010] The 92 million Millenial Americans are today's largest generation. Millenials are defined as those who were born between 1981 to 2002. A National Journal telephone and on-line survey examined the views of the Millenials. The survey results can help business better adapt to the generation power-to-be whether as consumers, employees or employers. Here are some statistics and observations from ...

Industry statistical survey due in two weeks
[May 12, 2010] APRO's online statistical survey -- the touchstone used by financial analysts, investment bankers, legislators and the media to gauge the value of the entire rent to own industry -- needs your company's input. APRO's simplified, online data entry form is now available. Go here to register a new account and participate in the most important survey you will take ...

Icontain asset management featured in tech piece
[May 12, 2010] The Boise Weekly today featured an article on the growing demand for "asset management" programs in the rent to own industry, specifically new innovations by IContain: Tough times have kept the $6.8 billion rent-to-own industry healthy, as credit-crunched consumers seek out alternatives to buying new stuff outright. Industry experts estimate as many as 3 million households a ...

APRO Scholarship Applications due June 11
[May 11, 2010] "Bo" Walker with daughter Robin Walker -- APRO's 2009 scholarship winner. Watch video. The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations is now accepting applications for its third annual $2,000 scholarship award open to all APRO rent-to-own employees and their children. Scholarship applications are due June 11. See full details and download scholarship application here. APRO's 2009 Scholarship Winner ...

APRO Board Nominations Due May 14
[May 10, 2010] Eight seats on the Association of Progressive Rental Organization's Board of Directors are up for election at the general session of APRO's annual convention in Louisville, Kentucky July 21st. Nomination forms were mailed last month to all APRO members in good standing and should be filled out and returned by fax or email no later than May 14. All ...

High Touch introduces RTO software fusion, 'Cynergi' product line
[May 6, 2010] High Touch CEO Wayne Chambers describes the fusion of RSSS and High Touch features at the company's users conference Thursday. High Touch President/CEO Wayne Chambers Thursday addressed users conference attendees and outlined project "Fusion" -- a cooperative effort between High Touch and RSSS programmers to combine the best features of the two largest rent to own software companies. ...

ColorTyme manager Coelho raises $14,000 for Children Hospital Boston
[May 6, 2010] Albert Coelho, ColorTyme store manager, raises $14,000 for Children's Hospital Boston. What started as one man’s run to support a personal cause turned into a massive fundraiser for the local Children’s Hospital. Albert Coelho, Providence ColorTyme store manager, recently finished the Boston Marathon with $14,520 to benefit the Hospital’s patient care and research programs. ...

High Touch gears up for 'modernization' talks at users conference in Wichita
[May 5, 2010] Dealers and industry reps. with High Touch and RSSS officials Wednesday. Rent to own industry operators from across the globe Wednesday, converged on Wichita, Kansas for High Touch Technology Solution's Users Conference to learn the ins and outs of a new "Best of Both" software that promises to combine the best features of the two largest RTO software ...

What is your BBB rating?
[May 5, 2010] APRO members have spent fifteen years spearheading a public relations campaign to improve the industry's marketing potential and public image. While there are national efforts to improve the industry's image, many have done so at the local level. One of the significant components is your company's Better Business Bureau, or BBB rating. "A company's BBB rating is important ...

Reasons you should exhibit at APRO in Louisville!
[May 3, 2010] 86% of attendees use face-to-face at exhibitions to become aware of new products, evaluate vendors for future purchase and/or narrow their choices to preferred vendors. 45% of attendees develop an emotional connection with a brand after interacting with it at a trade show. 53% of attendees who plan to buy one or more products or services as a result ...

Customer-Employee of the year nominations due June 11
[May 3, 2010] David Keen of Rent One (center) -- APRO's 2009 Employee of the Year. Watch video. APRO's Employees and Customers of the Year are those customers and employees who inspire, help or sacrifice for the betterment of their families and or communities. If one of your rent to own employees, co-workers or customers represents rent-to-own with such honor and character, ...

RAE entry deadline June 1
[May 3, 2010] The rent-to-own industry's longest held advertising competition is back. APRO's 2010 Rental Advertising Excellence contest will once again honor the best radio, television, print, direct market and Internet advertising campaigns created for rent-to-own businesses and companies over the past year. In commemoration of APRO's 30th Anniversary, entrants will also compete for a first ever "Best of Show" prize. ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from April 2010
Rick Wigen Joins Almo as VP of Product Management
[April 30, 2010] Rick Wigen, new Almo VP of product management. Almo Corporation, a leading U.S. distributor of consumer electronics and appliances, today announced that Rick Wigen will join the company as Vice President of Product Management responsible for consumer electronics and major appliances. Located at the Philadelphia headquarters, Rick will manage the product purchasing group. “At Almo, due to ...

UPDATED: Missouri dealers to donate 35 computers to fire ravaged school
[April 30, 2010] The Missouri Rental Dealers Association today a t 2:30 p.m. will hold a formal press conference where it will donate 35 new Compaq computers to the Fredericktown Middle School in Fredericktown, MO. The school burned down April 10 and officials relocated the school to a local church, Calvary Temple, until a more permanent location can be secured. The ...

Industry founders reflect on 30 years of APRO in new RTOHQ: The Magazine
[April 29, 2010] By Bill Keese, APRO executive director, A feature in this issue of RTOHQ: The Magazine reflects on the creation and early days of APRO as told by Bud Holladay, Chuck Sims and Ed Winn III. After 30 years, we separate the reality from the myths on the association’s purpose and responsibilities as seen by the founders of APRO. ...

Consumer confidence highest since fall 2008
[April 29, 2010] The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index, which had rebounded in March, increased further in April. The Index now stands at 57.9 (1985=100), up from 52.3 in March. The Present Situation Index increased to 28.6 from 25.2. The Expectations Index improved to 77.4 from 70.4. The Consumer Confidence Survey® is based on a representative ...

CE vet Mike Neighbours retires after 38 years
[April 28, 2010] Mike Neighbours retires Friday. After 38 years in the consumer electronics industry -- the last 10 serving rent to own dealers -- Mike Neighbours is prepping for the next phase of his life. Come this Friday, Neighbours is stepping down as RTO Sales Manager for CE distributer SED International. After that, he and his wife, Darlene, will pull up ...

Rent-A-Center stock moves noted by Bloomberg
[April 28, 2010] Blooomberg Businessweek today reported on a number of stocks that made notable moves in Tuesday's stock market. The nation's largest rent to own company, Rent-A-Center was one of those companies. The publication reported: "Rent-A-Center advanced 9.1 percent to $28.05, the highest price since May 2007. The biggest U.S. rent- to-own retailer of consumer electronics and ...

Rent-A-Center donates merchandise to Fort Benning
[April 27, 2010] Rent-A-Center is donating merchandise, including furnishings, electronics and computers with a wholesale value of more than $17,000, to Fort Benning. A portion of the donation benefits the Soldier and Family Assistance Center, which provides support to wounded, ill and injured soldiers and their family members. The balance of the donation benefits other services coordinated through the Family and ...

Take APRO's statistical survey now!
[April 27, 2010] The time is now to complete APRO's online statistical survey -- the touchstone financial analysts, investment bankers, legislators and the media use to gauge the value of the entire rent to own industry. APRO's simplified, online data entry form is now available. Go here to register a new account and participate in the most important survey you will take ...

Aaron's Q1: same store revenues up 4.4 percent
[April 26, 2010] Aaron's today announced record revenues and earnings for the three months ended March 31, 2010. For the first quarter of 2010, revenues increased 4% to $495.3 million compared to $474.0 million for the first quarter in 2009. Net earnings from continuing operations increased 5% to $37.0 million versus $35.4 million last year. Diluted earnings per ...

Rent-A-Center Q1: company raises 2010 revenue and guidance
[April 26, 2010] Rent-A-Center today announced revenues and earnings for the quarter ended March 31, 2010. First Quarter 2010 Results: Total revenues for the quarter ended March 31, 2010 were $718.4 million, a decrease of $9.8 million from total revenues of $728.2 million for the same period in the prior year. This decrease in revenues was primarily attributable to ...

Missouri dealers rally for local school, donate 25 computers
[April 26, 2010] Before Fredericktown Middle School burned down April 10, principal Scott Sikes hadn't even heard of the Missouri Rental Dealers Association (MRDA). Within a week, he learned the association was donating 35 brand new Compaq Desktop Computers so his campus of 440 sixth, seventh and eighth graders could continue their curriculum at Calvary Temple, a local church where the school ...

BrightHouse invests $1.5 million in new national service center
[April 26, 2010] Picture: Neil Edwards, Head of Service and Kieran O’Callaghan with their team at the ribbon cutting of BrightHouse’s new National Service Centre. BrightHouse, the UK's leading rent to own retailer, has invested $1.5 million in a new National Service Centre, on the site of its National Distribution Centre in Manchester. The new Service Centre replaces BrightHouse’...

Premier to Host Annual Franchising Open House in Chicago, June 8
[April 26, 2010] The Premier Companies is holding its Annual Franchising Open House in conjunction with its Mid-year Dealer Retreat inChicago on June 8. Premier dealers from across the country willcome together to network, participate in hands-on business workshops, and work togetheron strategies to grow their businesses. During that time Premier will host an Open House on so that those interested in ...

Rent-A-Center steps up for Louisiana Cultural Economy Foundation
[April 26, 2010] With help from the Rent-A-Center Random Act of Caring initiative, the Louisiana Cultural Economy Foundation (LCEF) will be better able to achieve its goal of supporting Louisiana’s economy as it promotes the state’s cultural industry and serves artists, cultural organizations and businesses. Rent-A-Center is donating the following for LCEF offices: • Five laptop computers • Conference table/chairs ...

Aaron's to honor armed forces foundation with commemorative NASCAR racecar
[April 25, 2010] Aaron's announced today it will honor the Armed Forces Foundation (AFF) with a commemorative NASCAR racecar at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Charlotte during the upcoming race Memorial weekend, Sunday, May 30. The paint scheme will feature a patriotic red, white and blue design. In addition to the custom paint scheme for the Michael Waltrip Racing No. 00 NASCAR Sprint ...

Seventh annual "Bowling for Autism" kicks off tomorrow
[April 23, 2010] John Cleek Jr.'s annual "Bowling for Autism" event kicks off tomorrow at AMF Town and Country Lanes in Columbia, Missouri at 11;30 a.m. The successful program, which has already raised more than $125,000 over the past six years, will continue to raise money for TouchPoint Autism Services (formerly Judevine) which offers services and support ...

Former ColorTyme manager opens first RTO store
[April 23, 2010] Once a ColorTyme manager, Daryck Fuqua recently became a franchisee with the opening of his new store in Phoenix, Ariz. Offering the convenience and affordability of rent-to-own, the new 4,800 square-foot store marks Fuqua’s success at achieving a long-term goal. "Opening a ColorTyme franchise has always been one of my dreams ever since I started working ...

Rent-A-Center supplies furnishings to Nevada housing units
[April 23, 2010] With help from the Rent-A-Center Random Act of Caring initiative, Neighborhood Housing Services of Southern Nevada (NHS) will be able to better serve local families and individuals served by their affordable housing initiatives. Rent-A-Center is donating six of each for NHS Affordable Housing Multi-Family Units: • Sofa/loveseat sets • Living room table sets • Living room pairs of lamps ...

Streamlined industry survey due May 28
[April 22, 2010] Financial analysts, investment bankers, legislators and the media depend on APRO's annual statistical survey to gauge the value of the entire industry. And that survey depends on you. APRO's simplified, online data entry form is now available. Go here to register a new account and participate in the most important survey you will take all year. "The value ...

Nationwide has long tradition of energy conservation
[April 22, 2010] As a four year ENERGY STAR award winner, Nationwide Marketing Group is no stranger to the importance of energy conservation in the retailing industry. For many years the buying group has been pushing an environmental message to their independent retailers, customers and the communities they serve. “We can confidently say that our independent retailers are promoting and selling ...

Grab your hat! It's derby time at APRO Convention
[April 21, 2010] Time to go shopping for your Derby attire and fabulous hats! The Kentucky Derby is only a few weeks away. And you’ll get to wear it all again at the APRO 2010 Convention & Trade Show July 19-22. APRO is throwing a private party at Churchill Downs just for you and your friends! You can place your bets ...

PARD donates five computers, software to local school
[April 21, 2010] L to R: Nativity School Board member Susan Ewing, Executive Director Jairee Counterman, students Queshawn Jenkins-Barksdale and Jzaquean Carter and Board member Stephen Proctor at PARD meeting Tuesday. Around 31 Pennsylvania rent to own professionals turned out for the Pennsylvania Association of Rental Dealers annual business meeting yesterday which culminated in the donation of $5,000 in products and ...

IMF: Global economy on the rebound
[April 21, 2010] The world economy is bouncing back from recession better than expected and will expand by more than 4 percent this year according to the International Monetary Fund's top economist in a Washington Post report. China is projected to grow by a world-leading 10 percent, while major European nations are expected to grow by a combined 1 percent. The United ...

TRIB Group launches new Web site
[April 20, 2010] TRIB Group today officially launched its new retooled Web site that features a fresh design and rebranding along with a host of other tools. TRIB Group first embarked on the website redesign project in the fourth quarter of 2009 after the project was awarded to one of TRIB Group’s approved vendors, Imagery Marketing of St. Louis, Missouri. The ...

Vendor Advisory Committee nominations due May 1
[April 20, 2010] Six seats on APRO's Vendor Advisory Committee are up for election this year and the nomination process is now underway. The Vendor Advisory Committee is open to any APRO Associate Member in good standing who desires to get more involved with the rent-to-own industry trade association. The election will be held at the APRO Annual Convention and Buying Show ...

PA Dealers to donate computers at business meeting tomorrow
[April 19, 2010] Around 31 Pennsylvania rent to own professionals are expected at the Pennsylvania Association of Rental Dealers annual business meeting Tuesday in which the organization will donate $5,000 in products and merchandise to an innovative middle school program for inner-city boys. PARD members will make their first "Computerz For Kidz" donation to The Nativity School of Harrisburg Tuesday, ...

Showplace holds appreciation day
[April 19, 2010] Pictured L to R: Keith Ferriman, Rick Hughes, Gary Ferriman, Chris Mefford and Brian Walker Showplace Rent to Own recently hosted a special company activity recognizing its employees and vendors. Gary Ferriman, Founder and President of the Marion, Ohio based company created the event as a means to recognize employees and stores that contribute each year to the success ...

Chris Mueller opens Tampa Premier Home Furnishings store
[April 19, 2010] Seasoned RTO veteran and owner Chris Mueller opened his Premier Home Furnishings store in Tampa last week. A smooth launch and steady store traffic bode well for success in his new location. Mueller has been in the industry since he became a driver for Action TV Rentals in 1980 at the age of 18. Earning a reputation as “...

Officers elected at high turnout TRDA meeting
[April 15, 2010] L to R: Chuck Botts, treasurer, Cindy Hogan, board member, Chris Bolin, president, Harvey Whitehead, secretary, James Garland, vice president. The Tennessee Rental Dealers Association met in downtown Nashville Tuesday for its annual business meeting drawing close to 30 attendees from 11 rent to own company's to participate in educational sessions and elect new board members and officers. Chris ...

Rent One re-locates service center
[April 15, 2010] A Mt. Vernon rent to own company with stores in five states has moved its service center recently to a 40,000-square feet facility that was once a popular department store, according to a story yesterday in the Vernon Morning Sentinel. Rent One, founded by Larry and Sharon Carrico, purchased the former Dobbs Department Store, on Illinois 37 South. ...

VIDEO: Rent-A-Center outfits Nebraska Boys and Girls Club
[April 14, 2010] On Tuesday, April 13, leaders of Rent-A-Center hosted a dedication and open house at the Boys & Girls Club of Lincoln/Lancaster Co. Teens at the Boys & Girls Club of Lincoln/Lancaster County have a newly updated positive place to hang out and call their own, thanks to a partnership between Boys & Girls Club of America and Rent-A-Center, Inc. ...

Adding GPS devices could save on comprehensive coverage
[April 13, 2010] By Jeanette Beardsley, APRO endorsed commercial insurance agent With the proliferating use of GPS devices in vehicles, we have had a couple vehicle theft claims where there was a GPS devise installed after purchase. In the loss settlement, the actual cash value of the vehicle is determined by Blue Book as well as any additional equipment. Electronic devices such ...

APRO Board nomination form coming soon
[April 12, 2010] Eight seats on the Association of Progressive Rental Organization's Board of Directors are up for election at the general session of APRO's annual convention in Louisville, Kentucky July 21st. Nomination forms were mailed last week to all APRO members in good standing and should be filled out and returned by fax or email no later than May 14. All ...

D&H wins TRIB's 'Soaring Eagle', 'Rising Star' Awards
[April 12, 2010] D&H’s Manager of the Home Entertainment Division John Alifano (left) and TRIB Group President Ernie Lewallen during the Group’s vendor meeting at the TRIB Show in Dallas. D&H Distributing, the major North American computer products and consumer electronics distributor, is proud to announce that it has won two major awards in the rent-to-own industry from ...

APRO Scholarship applications due June 11
[April 12, 2010] "Bo" Walker with daughter Robin Walker -- APRO's 2009 scholarship winner. Watch video. The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations is now accepting applications for its third annual $2,000 scholarship award open to all APRO rent-to-own employees and their children. APRO's Scholarship Foundation will award $2,000 toward college tuition fees for the winning applicant who must be ...

TRDA meeting Wednesday
[April 12, 2010] The Tennessee Rental Dealers Association Spring meeting takes place Wednesday at the DoubleTree Hotel Downtown in Nashville, Tennessee where dealers will take part in professional and industry seminars and elect officers. Mike Tissot of Countryside Rentals and Ed Winn III, general counsel for the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations are slated to speak. As vice president Bolin became TRDA's ...

ColorTyme's Hughes wins Multi-Unit MVP Award
[April 8, 2010] Gary Hughes (right) accepting his MVP award from Multi-Unit Franchisee Magazine. Multi-Unit Franchisee Magazine recently awarded Most Valuable Player status to Gary Hughes, franchisee of 20 years and owner of 12 total ColorTyme and RimTyme stores. Hughes was chosen for the recognition based on outstanding performance in areas including philanthropy, leadership, longevity and development. Signing on with ColorTyme in ...

Are you and your customers ready for the digital revolution
[April 7, 2010] Recent research headed by Karl Finch and Dr. Jim Witte point to an exponentially changing world spurred by the technological revolution. These rapid technological changes will have dramatic consequences for businesses, employees, products and customers. Rent-to-own owners are keenly aware of the latest products that consumers need and want that rent-to-own can hopefully provide. According to Dr. Jim Witte, ...

Customer-Employee of the year nominations due June 11
[April 7, 2010] David Keen (center) -- APRO's 2009 Employee of the Year. APRO's Employees and Customers of the Year are those customers and employees who inspire, help or sacrifice for the betterment of their families and or communities. If one of your rent to own employees, co-workers or customers represents rent-to-own with such honor and character, then be sure to submit ...

Registration open for APRO's 2010 Convention and Trade Show
[April 7, 2010] Register now for the rent-to-own industry event of the year -- APRO's 2010 Convention and Trade Show in Louisville, Kentucky July 19-22. For the first time, the APRO will hold its Convention in Louisville where more than 100 exhibitors will cater to hundreds of decision making rent-to-own dealers taking part in a host of one-of-a kind educational, training and ...

Rent-A-Center selects FM Facility Maintenance for nationwide facility program
[April 6, 2010] Rent-A-Center (RAC), the nation’s largest rent-to-own operator today selected FM Facility Maintenance (FM) to provide facility management services for its 3,000 company-owned stores nationwide and in Canada and Puerto Rico. “By leveraging FM’s strengths, we will greatly simplify our store managers’ responsibilities, improve the consistency of our customer experience, and enhance visibility of expenses while ...

CAL-APRO donates to new homeless center
[April 6, 2010] The California Association of Progressive Rental Organizations is donating $1,000 to Today's Urban Renewal Network which is establishing a new Homeless Engagement Center in Riverside, California. Nation's Rent To Own owner Paul Davis -- CAL-APRO's president -- also donated several thousand dollars in furniture from his company to outfit the lobby and reception rooms for the new facility. ...

Rent-A-Center outfits Arkansas Boys and Girls Clubhouse
[April 6, 2010] Rent-A-Center today, will dedicate a new “RAC Room” for teens at the Boys and Girls Club of Central Arkansas in North Little Rock outfitted with two new sofas and loveseats, three TVs, four computers and computer games. The dedication is scheduled for 3 p.m....

Rental Advertising Excellence entries due June 1
[April 5, 2010] The rent-to-own industry's longest held advertising competition is back. APRO's 2010 Rental Advertising Excellence contest will once again honor the best radio, television, print, direct market and Internet advertising campaigns created for rent-to-own businesses and companies over the past year. In commemoration of APRO's 30th Anniversary, entrants will also compete for a first ever "Best of Show" prize. ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from March 2010
Aaron's reaches out to Dallas-Ft. Worth community
[March 31, 2010] Some 250 Aaron's volunteers outside the North Texas VA Hospital Wednesday. More than 2,000 Aaron’s employees Wednesday, headed into Dallas -Ft. Worth area communities as part of the company's second annual community outreach initiative -- a new component of Aaron's National Managers Meeting held in Dallas this year. Over a two day period, the company will dedicate ...

TRIB Group elects Lyn Leach president
[March 31, 2010] New TRIB Group President Lyn Leach. As its last order of business Wednesday morning, the TRIB Group Board of Directors elected it's slate of officers for the upcoming year, including electing vice president Lynn Leach of Ace Rent To Own, as president. Leach succeeds Ernie Lewallen of UHR Rents who concluded a three year term as TRIB Group's president ...

TRIB Group wraps meeting at new Dallas Cowboys Stadium
[March 31, 2010] TRIB Group members at Cowboys Stadium Tuesday. Close to 300 rent to own professionals from across the globe capped three days of buying networking and fellowship with a tour of the $1.4 billion Dallas Cowboys stadium in Arlington. Participants toured the facility -- the largest domed stadium in the world -- in groups of 50 before settling back ...

Premier named one of fastest growing young franchisors in America
[March 30, 2010] The Premier Companies was recently ranked Number 10 on the 2009 Fast 55 list of fastest growing young franchisors in America, published by Franchise Times from data compiled by FRANdata. This is Premier’s second year to be one of the Top Ten on the list. Premier is the only company from its industry ever to make the list. ...

TRIB Group wraps record setting show
[March 30, 2010] Dick Eichlin, Marty Smith and Larry Carrico review Imagery Marketing's latest web features. The TRIB Group Buying Show closed this afternoon in Dallas after a frenetic two day run in which members from 104 rent to own companies bought millions in furniture, appliances, electronics and specialty items. Some 84 vendors were kept busing on the buying show floor with ...

RSSS and High Touch outline features of "Best of Breed" software collaboration
[March 30, 2010] Leading rent to own industry software companies High Touch and RSSS Monday, unveiled development details of their collaborative "Best of Breed" rent to own software at the TRIB Group Convention and Buying Fair in Dallas. "This software will be a combination of the best of High Touch and the best of RSSS," said RSSS General Manager ...

ColorTyme dealer turns memory into inspiration
[March 29, 2010] For Al Coelho, manager of the Providence ColorTyme, running for a cause is not just an exercise in charity but one that hits very close to his heart. Recently completing the New Bedford Half Marathon, Coelho honored the memory of his newborn daughter and made a promise to raise money for Children’s Hospital Boston. Olivia Marie, Coelho’s ...

TRIB elects board members, hits buying show
[March 29, 2010] Mark Reopelle, Angela and Kevin Quinn of Quality Rentals at the TRIB Group Membership Meeting in which Kevin was elected to the TRIB Board Monday. TRIB Group members elected three board members Monday at the buying group's annual membership meeting which drew more than 200 member rent to own dealers. Chris Bolin of Bolin Rental Purchase, Ron Rose of ...

Congress heads home for two week recess
[March 29, 2010] U.S. House and Senate members are at home for the Easter/Passover recess until April 12th. Congress members return to their districts to gear up for the upcoming election season and to take a rest after a heated Health Care legislative debate. The Health Care bill passed both the House and Senate then signed into law by President Obama. ...

Aaron's opens landmark 1,700th Store
[March 29, 2010] Aaron's has announced the recent opening of its 1,700th store, a reflection of the Company's strong growth and the solid business model offering credit-strained customers lease-to-own options. "The Aaron's business model has proven to succeed in both up and down economies," said Robin Loudermilk, Aaron's, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer. "The 1,700th store ...

Kathy Windsor honored with top TRIB award
[March 28, 2010] TRIB Group President Ernie Lewallen presents Kathy Windsor of National TV Sales with the buying group's highest award Sunday. Kathy Windsor, seven-year TRIB board member and co-founder of National TV Sales and Rental, last night in Dallas received the Norman W. "Slats" Slatton Sr. President's Award -- TRIB Group's most prestigious honor -- before an audience of more ...

TRIB Group "Hot Show" sales top $5.4 million
[March 28, 2010] "Bidders" at TRIB Group's record setting "Hot Show" Sunday. More than 200 rent to own professionals crowded the Coronado Ballroom of the Hilton Anatole Hotel to kick off the buying at TRIB Group's "Hot Show" -- the opening purchasing event at the rent to own buying group's 2010 annual convention and buy fair in Dallas. By ...

Michael Gerwe Jr. teams with industry execs to launch Asset Protection Products
[March 26, 2010] Michael Gerwe Jr. of RES Marketing, has joined forces with other industry notables including Terry Beville, Jamie Slatton, Joe Gazzo and Salvatore Moccia, and others, to launch Asset Protection Products. As the exclusive licensee for products developed by I-Contain, the start-up company will focus its efforts on developing and selling devices to help rent-to-own dealers protect their rental assets. ...

Aaron's brings second annual community outreach managers meeting to Dallas
[March 26, 2010] Aaron's "Lucky Dog" greets students from Anne Beers Elementary where Aaron's volunteers dropped off shoes for 400 children and adults at last year's community outreach event. Aaron’s is once again transforming its national managers meeting into a company-wide community outreach effort. More than 2,000 Aaron’s employees will be in Dallas for the event and over ...

Rent-A-Center donates $20,000 to Atlanta Children's Healthcare Service
[March 26, 2010] Rent-A-Center is donating $20,000 in video game equipment and televisions on March 26 to the Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. The equipment and televisions will be used primarily in the teen room at the cancer center. "We are pleased to support the important work undertaken by the dedicated staff at ...

ORDA wraps annual business meeting, plans legislative conference
[March 25, 2010] ORDA Officers (L to R): Mark Koehler (VP), Doug Higgins (Secretary), Scott Kinnear (President), Joel Ehrlich (treasurer). Over 20 rent to own dealers and supporting vendors turned out for the Ohio Rental Dealers Association annual meeting at the Concourse Hotel and Conference Center in Columbus, Ohio Wednesday where members elected officers and heard industry presentations. Board members re-elected president ...

TRIB Group Convention begins Sunday
[March 25, 2010] TRIB Group's annual Convention and Buy Fair kicks off Sunday in Dallas ushering in a four day rent to own bonanza featuring second-to-none networking opportunities, special show deals, membership meetings and the group's annual awards banquet slated for the new Dallas Cowboys Stadium. "We're very excited about the attendance and the attitude of our members," said Dennis ...

FRDA concludes successful legislative conference
[March 25, 2010] The Florida Rental Dealers Association held its 11th Annual Legislative Conference March 23-24 in Tallahassee, Florida. Facing no major legislative issues or concerns this year, attendees were able to meet with over 20 members of the house and senate, watch a senate debate, and hear presentations by Randy Miller, Vice President of The Florida Retail Federation, and Tami Perdue, ...

Healthcare reform's small business impact
[March 24, 2010] The health-care overhaul that President Barack Obama signed into law Tuesday will mean big changes for many small businesses. Through a combination of coverage mandates, penalties, tax credits and purchasing pools, lawmakers aim to boost insurance coverage for U.S. workers. But exactly how the legislation will affect small businesses depends in large part on their size. The $940 ...

Aaron's declares 3-for-2 stock split
[March 24, 2010] Aaron's today announced that the Board of Directors of the Company has declared a 3-for-2 stock split effected in the form of a 50 percent stock dividend on both Common Stock and Class A Common Stock. The holders of both Common Stock and Class A Common Stock will receive 1/2 new share for each share held. New shares and ...

Nationwide selects Audio Authority as vendor partner
[March 23, 2010] Audio Authority Corporation, a manufacturer of innovative retail demonstration products, announced today that it has been selected by Nationwide Marketing Group as a new vendor partner. Audio Authority recently exhibited at PrimeTime!, Nationwide’s buying show and conference, held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, February 28 through March 3, 2010. The Nationwide Buying Group leverages the $12 ...

Rent-A-Center to outfit 10 U.S. Army garrisons
[March 22, 2010] Rent-A-Center today announced plans to donate merchandise, with a wholesale value of $175,000, to 10 Army garrisons. Coordinated through the military’s Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command, the donations are slated for April through November of this year. The 10 garrisons are: Fort Hood, Kileen, Texas; Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga.; Fort Lewis-McChord, Lakewood, Wa.; Fort Carson, ...

Protect-A-Bed sponsors bed bug webinar
[March 19, 2010] Protect-A-Bed, the leading provider of bed bug proof mattress encasements for the corporate housing and rent to own industries, is sponsoring an educational webinar discussion on fighting the bed bug battle in cooperation with the Corporate Housing Providers Association (CHPA) on March 23. The hour-long session will take place from 2 – 3 p.m. EST., giving attendees a ...

Content is key to 3D-TV penetration, study finds
[March 19, 2010] Increased availability of 3D content is vitally important to sales of 3D-enabled TVs in 2010 and beyond, according to new consumer research from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and the Entertainment and Technology Center (ETC) at the University of Southern California. Content remains the key component in future adoption of 3D in the home. Two-thirds (67 percent) of those ...

Monitor your business with new iphone app
[March 18, 2010] New iphone app lets you see your office security cameras from your iphone; anytime and anywhere you may be traveling. Live images can be viewed from your phone in real time, even zooming in and out, on the free iphone app. As long as you have internet through your iphone, and high-speed internet at the camera location, then you ...

Buddy's, now largest RTO indie, begins franchising
[March 17, 2010] Buddy's owner Jamie Slatton with company president Joe Gazzo. Tampa-based Buddy’s Home Furnishings, in February, completed its Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and is now listed in the national franchise registry ushering in the next era of the company's development. The seminal rent to own company founded in 1961 by the late Norman Slatton Sr. and his wife Lois ...

New "invisible asset management" products helps RTO industry maintain strong growth
[March 16, 2010] Due, in part, to a lagging economy and the continuing credit crunch, the rent-to-own industry has seen tremendous growth and success. These successes, however are often hobbled by theft and difficult collection attempts. Industry leaders and local managers alike have searched for a suitable solution to these issues. How can one unobtrusively aid customers in keeping current with their ...

Premier Wheel Workz offers new wheel repair service
[March 15, 2010] “You bend ‘em, we mend ‘em” is the new slogan at Premier Wheel Workz stores where customers not only can buy or lease wheels and tires, but they can come in to repair their bent rims as well. While tire repair has been standard at Premier, new in-store wheel repair technology enables Premier dealers to offer ...

ORDA annual meeting this month
[March 15, 2010] The Ohio Rental Dealers Association holds its annual spring business meeting March 24 at the Concourse Hotel and Conference Center in Columbus, Ohio. The board will discuss it's popular Midwest Training Expo -- Sept. 21-22 -- and review vendor presentations in addition to holding officer elections. ORDA President Scott Kinnear, also an APRO board member, said the he anticipates ...

TRIB Group gears up for annual convention; downloads available
[March 12, 2010] TRIB Group will turn up the heat at its annual convention and buy fair in two weeks, March 27- 31, when the rent to own industry's largest member-owned buying group kicks off five days of meetings, award ceremonies and spring buying. Hosted in Dallas, Texas at the beautiful Hilton Anatole, and co-located with BrandSource, TRIB Group's event is open ...

PrimeTime! rebates up 20 percent
[March 12, 2010] Nationwide Marketing Group, the parent company of RentDirect Nationwide, announced that independent dealers cashed in on 20 percent more of instant rebate checks, over last year’s spring show, on products purchased at PrimeTime! held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas last week. In 2009, an excess of $12 Million in rebate checks were handed out to independent ...

Former Rentway CEO to head international business lender
[March 12, 2010] Opportunity International today announced the appointment of Bill Morgenstern as CEO, replacing Kadita "A.T." Tshibaka who has served as interim CEO since April 2009. Tshibaka will assist with the transition over the next month and return to his former role as a member of the Board of Directors of Opportunity International. "We are tremendously grateful ...

Rent One silver anniversary is 'Rentastic'
[March 12, 2010] David Keen, employment development manager, and Mark Williams, VP of sales and marketing, at Rent One's silver anniversary managers meeting. Rent One this week celebrated its 25th anniversary at the company's annual business meeting in Cape Girardeau, Missouri where more than 100 managers, their families and vendor partners turned out. To commemorate the historic achievement, Rent One will raffle ...

ColorTyme announces $30K giveaway winners
[March 11, 2010] Thirty ColorTyme customers recently cashed in as names were drawn for the $30K Giveaway, and countless others won in-store prizes. Held in celebration of the company's 30th birthday, ColorTyme's $30K Giveaway gave customers a chance to win $1,000 along with instant prizes in local stores. Rent-to-own customers registered for the grand-prize drawings Sept. 1 to Oct. 31 at ...

Bryce Jewelry introduces 'Bridal Plus' package
[March 11, 2010] Bryce Jewelry rings in the new decade with an innovative bridal program that is a marriage of service and success. The Bridal Plus package is the latest of Bryce’s creative marketing concepts designed to create a larger customer base with a lower investment. This compact program allows RTO dealers to benefit from a consistent and proven market – ...

DSI announces 2010 electronic expo dates
[March 11, 2010] DSI Systems' 2010 electronics expo tour will cover three states and again offer dealers their choice of four breakout sessions in addition to a general DSI presentation. Toshiba, Mitsubishi, LG, Sharp, Monster, DIRECTV, and more will conduct the breakout sessions for small groups on specific products. Dealers will be able to ask questions directly to the vendors and receive ...

DSI Systems reduces rebate headaches for independent dealers
[March 9, 2010] DSI Systems understands the challenges to a dealer’s cash flow and profitability created by the complicated manufacturer consumer instant rebate programs that more and more manufacturers are utilizing to drive sales. In response to those challenges, DSI developed a rebate claim process in 2009 that allows dealers to make their rebate reimbursement claim through DSI. This process allows ...

Rent One rolls out Harley, new store for 25th anniversary bash
[March 9, 2010] Murray Beck, Trent Agin, Col. Chris Lawson, Larry Carrico and Mark Williams at Rent One's 2010 managers meeting. Rent One is celebrating its 25th anniversary today at the company's annual business meeting in Cape Girardeau, Missouri where more than 100 managers, their families and vendor partners are expected. To commemorate the historic achievement, Rent One will raffle off a ...

Revamped APRO University in session
[March 9, 2010] APRO's revised online rent to own training program is live. The easier-to-use lower-cost APRO University online interface is currently offering APRO's original five training courses: Introduction to Rent-to-Own, Rental Delivery and Safety, Customer Satisfaction in Rent to Own, Communication in the Rent to Own Workplace and Account Management in Rent to Own. These industry specific courses were redesigned to ...

D&H offers range of vendors for 2010 TRIB SHOW
[March 8, 2010] D&H has Grown its portfolio of offerings for the rent-to-own marketplace, covering items ranging from best-selling notebooks to small appliances, HDTVs and gaming equipment. D&H Distributing, the major North American computer products and consumer electronics distributor, announces it is offering an expanded line of manufacturers and products to rent-to-own store owners and dealers in time for the ...

BrightHouse expands to Gaolgate Place
[March 8, 2010] BrightHouse, the U.K.'s leading rent to own chain, is continuing its expansion program with the opening of a new store in Gaolgate Place, Stafford. The new 3,400 sq ft store, which employs seven staff will have its Grand Opening on Saturday 6th March. To mark the occasion BrightHouse, will be hosting a family fun day to ...

ColorTyme manager inspires work through play
[March 3, 2010] Toby Littlejohn, ColorTyme championship belt winner. With the recent economic turndown leaving employee satisfaction at a record low, finding a cost-effective way to motivate the workforce can be a challenge. Fortunately, Jim Aldridge, manager of ColorTyme in Gaffney, South Carolina, discovered a creative approach to recognizing top performers that has sparked much interest and conversation: The ColorTyme Route Manager’...

Aaron's 'Dream Machine' to honor Mitsubishi
[March 3, 2010] Aaron's named Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, its Vendor Partner of the Year for 2009 and will race a Mitsubishi-themed No. 00 Aaron's Dream Machine in the company's honor. The racecar, driven by Michael Waltrip Racing No. 00 Aaron's Dream Machine driver David Reutimann, will make its on-track debut at Atlanta Motor Speedway on March 7 for the Kobalt Tools ...

Blockbuster adds pseudo RTO program
[March 3, 2010] Blockbuster Video said Tuesday it would change its fee policy after reporting a loss of $435 million in the fourth quarter, providing for a rent to own option by default option, according to UPI. The new policy changes a charge of $5 for a seven-day rental to a $5 fee for five days, after which customers will be charged ...

Premier's Cuthbertson earns community service award
[March 2, 2010] Premier dealer William Cuthbertson. Clarksville Premier Rental-Purchase owner William Cuthbertson earned a special award for community service at the recent Premier Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida. An integral and respected part of the Clarksville, Tennessee community, Premier has been providing furniture, appliances and electronics with both retail and rent-to-own options since Cuthbertson opened as a franchisee in 2006. Prior ...

RTO heavyweight makes retail inroads with "RAC Acceptance" program
[March 2, 2010] Keith Smith of Rent-A-Center, describes the RAC Acceptance program to single store retailer Mo Halawani of XOOM. Rent to Own and retail are not strange bedfellows. Rent to own literally rose from the ashes of a denied credit sale under the guidance of Ernie Talley in the 1960's. Many of today's most successful rent to own dealers began in ...

EPA Recognizes Nationwide with 2010 Excellence in Appliance Retailing Award
[March 2, 2010] NMG Executive Panel: Les Kirk, vice president, Ed Kelly, president and vice president Robert Weisner at a press conference Monday. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized Nationwide Marketing Group (NMG) with a 2010 Excellence in Appliance Retailing Award for its outstanding contributions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by marketing and promoting energy efficient products. NMG Executive ...

Rent-A-Center, Washington AG reach agreement, avoid trial on collections case
[March 1, 2010] Rent-A-Center and the Washington State Attorney General's office late last week, reached an agreement on a case that was headed to trial March 23. The Washington AG's Consumer Protection Division filed claims against Rent-A-Center in July 2009 asking King County Superior Court to declare Rent-A-Center's collection practices and rental contracts in violation of the state's Consumer Protection Act and ...

ColorTyme named AllStar Franchise for 2010
[March 1, 2010] ColorTyme, the nation’s oldest rent-to-own franchisor, was chosen from more than 800 companies as a top business opportunity in the 2010 AllBusiness Allstar Franchises ranking. Backed by analysis from parent company Dun & Bradstreet, AllBusiness.com’s ranking assesses the strengths of franchising companies based upon criteria including Web visibility and financial strength. The AllStar list of 300 ...

PrimeTime! goes live in Vegas
[March 1, 2010] Rental Dealers at RentDirect Nationwide PrimeTime! kickoff Sunday. Close to 3,000 retail and rent to own dealers packed the convention center at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas Sunday night for the kickoff of Nationwide Marketing Group's (NMG) PrimeTime! conference and buying show. More than 3,300 are registered for the show -- the second highest attended Nationwide ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from February 2010
RentDirect Nationwide Show hits Vegas
[February 28, 2010] RentDirect Nationwide kicks off its PrimeTime! buying show and conference at MGM Grand in Las Vegas today where rent to own dealers from across the country will take part in unique educational and networking opportunities and peruse more than 150,000 square feet of exhibit space showcasing the latest products. The conference -- which officially opens with a general ...

APRO Legislative Conference wraps 'day on the Hill' with networking reception
[February 25, 2010] L to R: Bill French, N.C. Rep. Virginia Foxx, David Kraemer, James MacAlpine. APRO Legislative Conference attendees ended a full day of meetings with legislators at the event's annual networking reception and dinner Wednesday evening at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C. See photo gallery. More than 120 conference attendees including rent ...

APRO conference 'tie auction' raises $7,500 for scholarship fund
[February 24, 2010] Tie auction winners (l to r): Jeannie Mendell, Scott Brown, Larry Sutton, Jamie Thompson, Jeff Loeb, Larry Carrico, Joe Gazzo, Charles Smithgall, Mamie Harper. APRO Legislative Conference attendees loosened their ties after a full day of meetings with legislators at the event's annual networking reception and dinner Wednesday evening. Then they sold them. Jamie Slatton of Buddy's Home Furnishings ...

Job creation is focus of RTO legislative message
[February 24, 2010] Missouri Congressman William Lacy Clay addresses a diverse group of RTO professionals at APRO's Legislative Conference Tuesday. Rent to own dealers, vendors and other industry professionals kicked off the first day of APRO's 2010 Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., united behind the message that rent to own legislation will spur economic recovery through job creation and business expansion. ...

Industry memories rekindled in new RTOHQ: The Magazine
[February 24, 2010] Introduction by APRO Executive Director Bill Keese, “History cannot give us a program for the future, but it can give us a fuller understanding of ourselves, and of our common humanity, so that we can better face the future.”—Robert Penn Warren Knowing and understanding the history of rent-to-own and the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations ...

RTO industry pros head to DC
[February 23, 2010] Rent to own industry professionals from across the country are making their way to APRO's 2010 Dave Egan Legislative Conference today at the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel in Washington, D.C. to kickoff the industry's legislative event of the year. More than 100 rent to own dealers, employees and vendors are on hand for legislative updates and grassroots training this ...

Teletrack and eBureau develop new specialty credit tools
[February 23, 2010] Teletrack, Inc., an industry-leading provider of credit risk solutions for non-traditional lenders, and eBureau, an innovative provider of real-time predictive scoring and information solutions, today introduced a suite of credit scoring and other predictive models that are to become core components of Teletrack’s risk management solution offerings. Teletrack chose to partner with eBureau because of their depth of ...

RNR re-designed site includes social networking
[February 22, 2010] At the 2010 RNR Custom Wheel and Tire Franchise Meeting held January 18 – 21, in Tampa, FL, RNR, one of the largest custom wheel and tire stores in the world, launched its newly re-designed website. The site provides improved functionality and benefits to visitors and members, which include a simplified main menu with links to the most useful ...

Missouri dealers gain marketing insights at annual meeting
[February 18, 2010] Marketing specialist Kelly McDonald with MRDA President John Cleek Jr. Around 85 Missouri Dealers representing some 20 different RTO companies kicked off the Missouri Rental Dealers Association annual meeting at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Columbia yesterday where they were treated to a birds eye view of marketing trends that will affect business decisions into the foreseeable future. ...

Tracking software nabs rent-to-own thief
[February 18, 2010] West Valley Police haven't arrested the thief just yet, but they know his name and information -- all because he looked himself up on Salt Lake County Jail's database, according to local news station Channel 5 KSL.com. West Valley EZ Rent-to-Own Assistant Store Manager Cody Flippin said was helping someone else when the thief walked in Dec. 10. ...

Brennan introduces negative RTO bill in PA
[February 17, 2010] State Rep. Joe Brennan, D-Lehigh/Northampton, recently introduced legislation that would further regulate Pennsylvania rent-to-own centers, according to a statement released by Brennan's office today. Pennsylvania is home to 257 rent-to-own stores that employ 1,542 employees. The bill, H.B. 2247, was referred to Consumer Affairs Feb. 9. "Since the rent-to-own industry began in the 1960s, their sales ...

APRO thanks legislative conference sponsors
[February 17, 2010] Rent-to-own industry professionals are gearing up for APRO's 2010 Legislative Conference next week Feb. 23-25 in Washington, D.C. The conference -- the single most important legislative event for rent to own dealers -- comes at a critical time when calls for industry regulation are still resounding on Capitol Hill. APRO's 2010 Legislative Conference sponsors are integral to the ...

RAC Q4 2009 investor presentation available
[February 17, 2010] Rent-A-Center today released it's Q4 2009 investor presentation in pdf format. Download here....

Aaron's Q4: same store revenues up 5.2 percent
[February 16, 2010] Aaron's, the nations largest rent to own franchise and second largest RTO company, today announced revenues and earnings for the three months and year ended December 31, 2009. For the fourth quarter of 2009, revenues increased 10% to $446.3 million compared to $404.9 million for the fourth quarter in 2008. Net earnings from continuing operations increased 19% ...

MRDA hosts annual meeting tomorrow
[February 16, 2010] Missouri Dealers kick off annual meeting tomorrow at 8:55 a.m. at the Hampton Inn & Suites, Columbia, Missouri and will feature industry and legislative updates followed by the Missouri Rental Dealers Annual Business Meeting. MRDA President John Cleek Jr. expects around 100 attendees representing around 20 different RTO companies in the state. Cleeks said boardmembers will review the ...

Reverend never 'tires' of preaching RTO gospel
[February 16, 2010] The Tampa Bay Business Journal recently featured "The Reverend of RTO”, Larry Sutton, and his now 10-year old company, RNR Custom Wheels and Tires as the subject of a piece titled, "A Rent-to-Own Keeps its Growth Rolling. The article follows Sutton from owner of Champion Rent-to-Own, a company with nearly 150 stores offering furniture and appliances, before ...

Teletrack integrates Transunion Credit info
[February 16, 2010] Teletrack, an industry-leading provider of credit and fraud risk solutions for non-traditional lenders, has added access to TransUnion credit information and scores to its specialty credit platform for non-traditional credit grantors. Integration with TransUnion allows Teletrack’s non-traditional consumer finance customers to access a single-source specialty credit platform with all of the relevant risk management solutions they need to ...

DATATrue 'connects' with kSoft and RTO Pro
[February 16, 2010] DATATrue is pleased to announce that it has successfully integrated its verification program with kSoft Corporation and RTO PRO. Key Points: DATATrue customers that also use kSoft or RTO Pro software can now access DATATrue automatically and when they enter a customer’s information on the kSoft or RTO Pro systems. RTO Pro is a complete point of sale ...

RentDirect Nationwide PrimeTime! launches in two weeks
[February 15, 2010] RentDirect Nationwide is preparing for its PrimeTime! by Nationwide buying show and conference at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada on February 28 – March 3. The show will cover over 150,000 square feet of exhibit space showcasing the latest products from leading manufacturers. Dealers attending the show can also take advantage of exclusive offers including Cash Back ...

Press takes fresh look at RTO in Ohio
[February 15, 2010] The rent to own industry and it's appeal in the current economy was the topic of choice for the Columbus-Dispatch this weekend and featured interviews with a number of rent to own dealers in the area. The mainstream daily newspaper with a Sunday circulation of more than 330,000, detailed the industry's improvements that have led to a 8 ...

Protect-A-Bed opens UK office
[February 15, 2010] Protect-A-Bed, a leading provider of bedding protection products with a presence in 27 countries, today announced its acquisition of London-based Shine Capital Europe LTD which distributes Protect-A-Bed products across Europe. The acquisition creates a formal corporate presence for Protect-A-Bed in Europe. Simon Zamet, owner of Shine Capital Europe LTD, has been named CEO for Protect-A-Bed Europe. Protect-A-Bed Europe sells ...

Countryside employees brave winter weather for annual meeting
[February 12, 2010] Countryside Rent-2-Own President Mike Tissot with Diane Smalley, manager of the company's store of the year in Hillsboro. It wasn’t the 8 inches of snow and high winds in the Ohio Valley that closed all 25 of Countryside Rentals’ RENT-2-OWN stores on Wednesday. In fact, all of that blustery winter weather couldn’t keep the vast majority of ...

easygates opens two new stores
[February 12, 2010] Bud Gates, Chairman and CEO of easygates, LLC announces the opening of two new easyhome franchise stores. The second store in Arkansas opened on February 6 at 2070 John Harden Drive in the Jacksonville Plaza shopping center in Jacksonville, Arkansas and the second store in Missouri will open on February 13 at 139 N. Belt Highway in the Hy ...

InForm offers $59 Easter holiday promo
[February 12, 2010] Easter offers another opportunity to get customers in stores. What better way than an “In-store promotional giveaway?” Year round promotions are great traffic builders and they create in-store excitement, repeat business and generate customer good will. Order your holiday promotion at least a month in advance, display it in your store, put up the advertising poster in your ...

Ashley Furniture to open 300 new franchise stores
[February 10, 2010] Ashley Furniture hopes to open 300 new lower-cost franchise stores this year, according to a story in the Chicago Tribune. In the story, the Arcadia-based manufacturer says the stores will offer furniture at a single price -- for example, all sofas for $399, rugs for $99, or five-piece dining room sets for $399. The store's president of sales, Kerry ...

Credit card use down
[February 10, 2010] Credit card usage is slowing, according to a USA Today report. Revolving credit — largely made up of credit card debt — fell by nearly 20 percent in November, the largest drop on record, according to the Federal Reserve. The slowdown reflects less borrowing by consumers and tighter lending standards employed by banks. Through October, the number of new ...

Kaye promoted to Benefit Marketing VP of sales
[February 9, 2010] David Kaye, new Benefit Marketing Solutions VP of sales and marketing. Benefit Marketing Solutions, Inc. (BMS), the recognized leader in membership programs for the rent-to-own industry and other retail markets, today announced the promotion of David L. Kaye to Vice President—Sales and Marketing. BMS is a subsidiary of Access Plans, a leading membership and insurance marketing company. Kaye ...

DSI now features Panasonic Professional Displays
[February 9, 2010] DSI today announced Panasonic Professional Displays is now part of the company's product line. Panasonic Professional Displays are perfectly suited for the needs of our Dealers serving the commercial installation market. Panasonic Professional Displays are designed for the demands of the commercial environment, featuring extensive configuration options for a wide range of specific applications. As the premier manufacturer of ...

Follow APRO on Twitter and Facebook
[February 5, 2010] Keep up to date on all the latest rent-to-own industry news and announcements on APRO's Twitter and Facebook pages. Read previous Twitter posts here, then sign up and "follow" RTOHQ to receive regular updates via e-mail, smart phone application or text. You decide how you want to stay connected. Get association updates on the go via your smartphone ...

Aaron's donates solar-powered electric systems to Haiti relief efforts
[February 5, 2010] Aaron's today is donating two solar-powered electric systems valued at $100,000 in support of Haiti relief efforts through ACORP, Aaron's Community Outreach Program. Through ACORP, Aaron's associates have donated thousands of hours of associate time to community service projects in more than 1,700 cities across the U.S. and $6.8 million in goods and services donations. ...

ColorTyme manager enters Boston Marathon for children's hospital
[February 5, 2010] On April 19, Providence ColorTyme Store Manager Albert Coelho will be running for more than his health; he will be making a difference for thousands of children. Coelho will participate in the Boston Marathon, a 26.2-mile foot race, to raise money for Children’s Hospital Boston. “I'm running for Children’s Hospital Boston because I believe so ...

Serta offers national RTO comforter giveaway
[February 5, 2010] We are very excited to announce Serta’s 1st Quarter 2010 National Marketing Event. Never before has a Mattress Manufacturer offered an event like this that gives rent-to-own dealers the opportunity to capitalize on a nationally advertised event in the mattress category. Consumers who rent a Queen, Split Queen, King or Cal King size Serta Perfect Sleeper Mattress Set ...

APRO, Ashley hospitality suite a hit
[February 3, 2010] RTO dealers at the Ashley Hospitality Suite at World Market Center Las Vegas Tuesday. More than 30 rent-to-own professionals representing a dozen companies turned out Tuesday for the annual RTO reception at Las Vegas Winter Market hosted by the Association of Progressive Rental Organzations and sponsored by Ashley Furniture. World Market Center Las Vegas’ campus was alive with optimism ...

Artists Guild of America: Real art by real artists
[February 2, 2010] Ron Munoz shows off some art samples at Las Vegas Market. For over 30 years the Artists Guild of America has been producing hand-painted art on canvas in company studios located in Los Angeles, California. Each painting begins with a blank canvas and is painted and signed by studio artists who use genuine paints, heavy textures, gel, crackle, foils, ...

Progressive Furniture expands into hardwoods
[February 2, 2010] George Ramel, Mike France and Dan Kendrick of Progressive Furniture. Progressive Furniture, a 25-year old North Carolina Furniture Company, recently expanded its offerings by producing a line of hardwood products manufactured in the company's Mexico plant. Progressive is exhibiting it's hardwood furniture at the Winter Las Vegas Market this week. The hardwood products -- made from either Maple, Birch, ...

Coaster Fine Furniture RTO catalog released
[February 2, 2010] As an import distributor of fine home furnishings across all major residential categories, Coaster offers one of the largest selections of continually-warehoused merchandise from seven warehouses strategically located across the country. And with Coaster's new 2010 "Rental Catalog", ordering just became that much easier. Download catalog here. Coaster's new "Rental Catalog" condenses all the furniture company's 3,...

New Majik RTO opens in Huntingdon, PA
[February 2, 2010] Huntingdon Mayor Dee Dee Brown, center left, helps cut the ribbon on the new Majik Rentals store in her city. Lancaster-based Majik Rentals and Sales officially opened its fifth rent to own location in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania yesterday. The stores ribbon cutting ceremony was highlighted by a $4,000 contribution to a local charitable organization. Majik, which first opened for ...

SLR International debuts at Vegas Market this week
[February 2, 2010] Joe Savovic, founder of SLR International. SLR International, leather motion furniture specialist, debuts this week at the Winter Las Vegas Market in Building A, space 1054. SLR International was founded in early 2008 by RTO industry veteran, Joe Savovic. "It gives me great personal pleasure to once again serve a segment of friends spanning 25 years in the ...

Rent-A-Center reports Q4 2009 Results
[February 1, 2010] Rent-A-Center, the nation's largest rent-to-own operator, today announced revenues and earnings for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2009. Fourth Quarter 2009 Results: Total revenues for the quarter ended December 31, 2009 were $672.9 million, a decrease of $26.9 million from total revenues of $699.8 million for the same period in the prior year. This ...

High Touch, RAC donate 40 computers to Kansas community organizations
[February 1, 2010] Rent-to-own software leader High Touch, today announced it is joining efforts with long-time business partner Rent-A-Center to donate 20 IBM computers each to Breakthrough and Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland. The donation is being organized by High Touch, Inc., a 25-year-old Wichita technology solutions company. “Breakthrough and Girl Scouts give so much to the community, and we wanted ...

Inspector General warns TARP may not prevent another financial crisis
[February 1, 2010] The 2008 economic crises prompted unique opportunities for rent-to-own to promote its positive contribution to consumers. The over extension of credit was one of the driving issues of the financial collapse leaving rent-to-own's credit-free transaction a more viable consumer option for many. The twice initiated Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) by the U.S. Congress was designed to infuse ...

Las Vegas Market opens today
[February 1, 2010] This week’s Winter Las Vegas Market, runs today through Feb. 5 presenting retailers, rent-to-own dealers and design professionals new tools, resources and business strategies to not only survive, but to thrive in a challenging home furnishings industry in 2010. APRO will host a Hospitality Suite from 5-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 2 sponsored by Ashley Furniture at the ...

Twin-Star customer appreciation night a hit
[February 1, 2010] LtoR: Scott Hancock of Buddy's ,Gidget Meaut and Craig Meau of Twin Star. Twin-Star International, manufacturer of ClassicFlame Electric Fireplaces and Tresanti Media and Wine Cabinets Sunday, hosted it's third annual customer appreciation event at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas on the eve of The Winter Las Vegas Market. Over 450 retail and rent-to-own dealers and industry ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from January 2010
Las Vegas Market: There's an app for that
[January 29, 2010] Consistent with its out-of the-box innovative leadership, World Market Center Las Vegas, is launching a free, downloadable application to enhance the experience of those attending Winter Las Vegas Market, Feb. 1 – 5. The first-of-its-kind interactive smartphone application designed specifically for the home furnishings industry provides attendees with quick and easy mobile access of exhibitors and events during Las ...

Rent-A-Center names Robert Brockman senior vice president of HR
[January 29, 2010] Rent-A-Center, the nation's largest rent-to-own operator, today announced the appointment of Robert Brockman to senior vice president of human resources. Reporting to Mitch Fadel, president and chief operating officer, Brockman succeeds Mel McCall, who retired in December. Brockman's duties will include oversight of traditional human-resources responsibilities such as store and home-office staffing, training and development, compensation, benefits and payroll. ...

Waterbury ColorTyme remembers recent shooting victim
[January 28, 2010] ColorTyme’s Steve Dwyer never met John Frazier, but the teen’s tragic death in Waterbury, Connecticut, prompted a local rent-to-own franchise owner to get involved. Taking to heart the company’s motto, “People Helping People”, Dwyer is collecting donations at ColorTyme in Frazier’s name and will match every dollar that the store raises through Feb. 6. ...

Rent to own part of new consumer diet
[January 28, 2010] As the recession continues, Americans are saving more, spending less, and rethinking middle-class living, according to a recent article by U.S. News and World Report. Rent to own is mentioned as a part of the "rental rebound" section of the article as a timely alternative as the "ownership society" takes a backseat. The section is as ...

Joe Urena dies
[January 27, 2010] Joe Urena Joe Urena passed away in Redlands, California on January 26. Urena was an associate of Marie May and was in sales for Rental Dealer News and Rentex in the 1990s and had many friends in the rent-to-own industry. All services will be held at Todd Memorial Chapel at 570 North Garey Avenue Pomona, CA 91767 at the ...

Restonic gives bedding a new lease on rental life
[January 26, 2010] When it comes to re-renting bedroom sets, mattresses regularly prove more problematic than profitable. With staining, transportation wear, cleaning costs and bug issues, rent to own dealers typically get seven to eight months -- about two an a half turns -- of life at best from a traditional mattress. Meanwhile the bedroom sets that house them need replacement mattresses ...

APRO Vendors: Booth rate deadline Feb. 1
[January 26, 2010] Booth rates for APRO's Annual Convention and Trade Show will increase February 1st. The show is 70% sold out so don't delay. View your invitation to exhibit here. APRO's 2010 Convention and Trade Show will celebrate the association's 30th anniversary in Louisville, Kentucky, July 19th - 22nd. To view available booths Click Here or contact Cindy Ferguson at cferguson@rtohq....

Troy Aikman is new Rent-A-Center spokesman
[January 26, 2010] New RAC Spokesman Troy Aikman. Rent-A-Center revealed today that Troy Aikman is the company’s new celebrity spokesperson. The well-known sports broadcaster, former Dallas Cowboys quarterback, three-time Super Bowl champion and member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame will be featured extensively in Rent-A-Center’s marketing efforts starting in February. Rent-A-Center chose to team up with Troy Aikman ...

Consumer confidence climbs in January
[January 26, 2010] Consumer confidence in the overall economy rose in January to the highest level in seven months, according to the latest figures released today from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and CNET (www.cnet.com). The CEA-CNET Index of Consumer Expectations (ICE) rose to 172.9 this month, an increase of nearly eight points from last month. The ICE, which ...

Past APRO President joins Silko Radio
[January 25, 2010] APRO Past President Glenn Davis. APRO past president Glenn Davis announced this week he is currently working as a Silko Radio Sales Representative. Davis will continue to head up the rental sales division of King Koil Mattresses. Davis was president of APRO in 1985 and served as secretary for six years. He was one of the founding members of ...

Whirlpool provides online consumer tool for Cash for Appliances program
[January 25, 2010] Whirlpool Corporation continues its legacy of leadership in energy efficiency with the launch of an easy-to-use rebate finder tool on three of its brand Web sites – Whirlpool, Maytag and KitchenAid brands. As a manufacturer and marketer of more than 300 ENERGY STAR qualified major appliances in the U.S. and Canada, Whirlpool Corporation created the tool to help ...

Premier Companies convene in Orlando
[January 25, 2010] The Premier Companies Annual 2010 Convention kicks off today at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida Jan. 25-28. Premier attendees kick off the event with a round of golf beginning today at noon at a Greg Norman-designed world-class course located directly on the hotel grounds. Throughout the week Premier Companies attendees -- which include rent-to-own furnishings franchise ...

BrightHouse opens new store in Gravesend
[January 25, 2010] BrightHouse the UK's leading rent to own chain, specialising in the sale of home electronics, domestic appliances and household furniture, is continuing its expansion programme with the opening of a new store in the Thamesgate centre in Gravesend. The 2,500 sq ft store, which employs seven staff will have its Grand Opening on Saturday 30th January, to mark ...

High Touch, RSSS join forces for modernized POS software
[January 22, 2010] Citing client needs, technology advancements and rent-to-own industry shifts, High Touch announced today a high-speed initiative to develop and implement a new single modernized system. The initiative, a joint effort between High Touch and its subsidiary RSSS, will be accompanied by organic change at both organizations, said Wayne Chambers, High Touch CEO/president. “RTO is the foundation on which ...

Baber's expands Rent-N-Roll store reach
[January 22, 2010] Cynthia Baber-Strunk and Shannon Strunk of Baber’s today expanded their RNR Franchise with the purchase of two Rent-n-Roll stores in Gulfport, Mississippi and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The stores were purchased from industry veteran Wayne Sutton. The new locations bring the number of stores Baber’s operates to 59 (eight Rent-N-Rolls; 51 Baber's) and Baber’s now becomes the ...

PrimeTime! vendor listings now available
[January 22, 2010] Updated Vendor Listing and Show Floor Maps are now available for the upcoming Nationwide RentDirect Show at MGM Las Vegas Feb. 28-March 3. See vendors here. PrimeTime! by Nationwide Marketing Group (NMG), the largest buying show for independent rental dealers, is expecting a solid attendance at their upcoming event judging by impressive registration numbers. “We are very pleased ...

TRIB Group annual convention hosts closing event at Cowboy's Stadium
[January 22, 2010] TRIB Group’s annual Convention and Buy Fair, co-located with Brand Source is set for March 27-31, 2010. Hosted in Dallas, Texas at the Hilton Anatole, TRIB Group hosts a 5-day event open to all its members and approved vendors. The convention includes membership meetings, over 11 hours of buying time, the HotShow—a signature rapid-fire buying event, board ...

DATATrue auto payment tool lowers returns, cuts costs
[January 22, 2010] Recessionary factors continue to draw new customers to the rent-to-own transaction while at the same time it is creating new challenges for traditional RTO customers. Information verification specialist DATATrue's automated EFT/ACH payment program is one that can help customers stay on top of their regular payments, circumvent returns and save time and money for all parties. Bill Wendell of ...

TARA 2010 Convention date set
[January 21, 2010] The Texas Association of Rental Agencies today released the convention dates for TARA's 27th Annual Convention & Southwest Buying Show. The event will be held Oct. 10-11, 2010 at the Hotel InterContinental-Dallas. For more details visit TARA's homepage at http://www.taraontheweb.com/ or contact Scott Pospisil, Executive Director Texas Association of Rental Agencies at 512/477-1991 or 512/917-8550....

RNR honors franchisee of the year, company best at annual awards banquet
[January 21, 2010] RNR Franchisee of Year: RNR of Virginia. (L to R) Jeff Loeb, Larry Sutton, Ron Russell and Richard Rose. RNR Custom Wheels and Performance Tires Wednesday, named RNR of Virginia its franchisee of the year at the company's annual awards banquet honoring high performing stores, managers and franchisees. RNR of Virginia -- owned by Richard Rose, Jeff Loeb and ...

Briley sells three stores to Aaron's corporate
[January 20, 2010] Robert Briley West Texas Aaron's franchisee Robert Briley, today reported he has finalized the sale of three of his Aaron's Sales and Lease franchise stores to Aaron's corporate. Briley told RTO Today he sold his Mineral Wells, Eastland and Sweetwater stores to Aaron's corporate. He also sold the buildings and land for the Mineral Wells and Sweetwater stores to ...

Business to Business names Aaron's "Company of the Year"
[January 20, 2010] Atlanta's Business to Business recently named Aaron's, Inc. its 2010 "Company of the Year" as part of the magazine's annual achievement awards selections, which recognize the extraordinary accomplishments and contributions of Atlanta's great business leaders and companies. Ambassador Andrew Young will present the award to Aaron's at an awards ceremony tonight at 6:30 at the Atlanta History Center. ...

ColorTyme names Hughes 2009 franchisee of the year
[January 19, 2010] Gary and Jutta Hughes of the Hughes Group win ColorTyme's "Franchisee of the Year" Award winners. ColorTyme CEO Bob Bloom at right. ColorTyme franchise owners Gary and Jutta Hughes of the Hughes Group, took home the company's top honor for the fifth time Tuesday, when they were received ColorTyme's 2009 Franchisee of the Year Award -- the "...

RNR 2010: Cultural shift drives after-market wheel demand
[January 19, 2010] The RNR Custom Wheels and Performance tires kicked off it's annual franchisee meeting beginning with a golf tournament Monday and continuing with a welcome reception sponsored by American Tire Distributors and Benefit Marketing Solutions. A general session commenced today at the Hilton Westshore in Tampa, Florida, that included a favorable prognosis for the after market wheel and tire market. ...

46 states in legislative session for 2010
[January 19, 2010] The beginning of the year means the beginning of state legislative sessions. All businesses need to take note when legislators are in session as the many bills introduced could have consequences to your business and employees. It is estimated that more than 125,000 bills will be introduced in 2010 not including the U.S. Congress and Washington, D....

Shaw is ColorTyme top manager
[January 18, 2010] L to R: Franchise owners Gary Hughes and Peter Landretti, Double Diamond Manager Mark Shaw and ColorTyme CEO Bob Bloom. Mark Shaw took home ColorTyme's top store manager honor for the sixth year in a row Monday, at the company's annual 2010 convention at the Embassy Suites in Frisco, Texas. Shaw, who manages a ColorTyme in Waipahu, Hawaii, was ...

APRO Scholarship Winner is a grade above the rest
[January 18, 2010] Robin Walker. Click to watch video of 2009 APRO Scholarship Winner. Robin Walker made the grades. Literally. As a the 2009 APRO Scholarship recipient, Walker must complete the semester with a 3.0 grade point average or better to receive the full amount of $2000 APRO scholarship. Walker completed the first semester of her Sophomore year at Ole Miss ...

Rent-A-Center assists Texas crisis center
[January 15, 2010] With help from the Rent-A-Center Random Act of Caring initiative, the FamilyTime Crisis and Counseling Center will be able to better serve local families and individuals in crisis. Rent-A-Center is donating eight HP computers and additional support for the center. Founded in 1977, FamilyTime’s mission is to provide an outreach program and accessible services to families and individuals ...

Aaron's Q4 conference call Feb. 16
[January 14, 2010] Aaron’s, Inc. will hold a live conference call at 5 p.m. (EST) Feb. 16, to discuss the company's fourth quarter 2009 earnings results. Aaron's Chairman Charlie Loudermilk, President/CEO Robin Loudermilk, COO Ken Butler, and Executive Vice President/CFO Gil Danielson will provide opening remarks and participate in a Q & A. For those wishing to participate, Dial 800/357-0498 ...

Credit bureaus mine more personal data as credit card regs tighten
[January 13, 2010] Beginning in February, personal income—as estimated by the three credit bureaus—may be used to help determine new credit card approvals, according to the Wall Street Journal. The move marks a new era of tightened lending and increased regulations on consumer credit. As a result, more consumers could be shut out of the credit picture, making alternative financing ...

Rent-A-Center live Q4 conference call February 2
[January 13, 2010] Rent-A-Center will hold a conference call to discuss the company's fourth quarter 2009 earnings results at 10:45 a.m. (ET) Feb. 2. Read more....

Aaron's "Mini" giveaway makes one "Big" surprise
[January 12, 2010] Cynthia Norlin (left) receives the keys to her new Mini Cooper. Aaron's today announced that Cynthia Norlin of Glendale, Arizona, is the grand prize winner of a brand new 2010 Mini Cooper in the Aaron's Mini Cooper Sweepstakes. The sweepstakes, a co-promotion with Hewlett Packard (HP) that ran from Oct. 1 to Nov. 30, was held at Aaron's locations ...

RNR 2010 Franchisee Meeting Preview
[January 12, 2010] RNR Custom Wheels and Performance Tires -- the country's largest custom wheel and tire rental chain -- hosts its sixth annual franchisee meeting at the Hilton Westshore in Tampa, Florida Jan. 18-21. Around 100 franchisees, managers and vendors are expected at the RNR Meeting which will kick off with a Golf Tournament Jan. 18. Over the following days the ...

Inform lauches new Web site
[January 12, 2010] InForm Print & Promotions, a company with over 30 years in the rent to own industry, today announced the debut of the company's re-designed website www.shopinform.com. "The web has become a much more effective tool for us to communicate with and display products for our customers over the past few years. With that in mind we ...

Legislative Conference Hotel Deadline Approaching: Make reservations today!
[January 12, 2010] The hotel deadline for APRO's 2010 Legislative Conference is in 10 days. Have you made your hotel reservation? Reserve your room now by calling the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel at 202/484-1000 and request the APRO room rate of $249 single/double. Early conference registration is critical for congressional meeting coordination and event planning throughout the conference. Register today online or contact ...

BrightHouse 2009 holiday revenue up 21%
[January 11, 2010] BrightHouse, the UK’s largest rent-to-own company, today announced a 21 percent revenue increase in its trading update for the 13 weeks to 24 December 2009. Trading performance in the period has shown continued revenue growth from both new and existing stores. Highlights: Revenue up 21% to £50.5m ($81.7 million); 2008: £41.7 million ($67....

RTO vet Lowe joins FAN Sales & Leasing as Executive VP
[January 8, 2010] Sam Lowe, new executive vice president for FAN Sales and Leasing. Sam Lowe, a 20-year plus veteran of the rental purchase industry, officially takes the helm today as executive vice president of Furniture and Appliances Now (FAN) Sales & Leasing. He will be responsible for all operational activities including sales, marketing and human resources. Lowe has spent the majority ...

RAC boardmember Roberts elected to chair North Texas health care system
[January 8, 2010] Texas Health Resources’ board of trustees recently elected two high-profile North Texas business executives — Leonard H. Roberts and Kerney Laday Sr. — to serve two-year terms on setting the strategic direction for the largest health care system in North Texas, according to the Dallas Business Journal. Roberts, who serves on the boards of Plano-based Rent-A-Center and J.C. ...

Aaron's to celebrate BCS National Championship Winner
[January 7, 2010] Aaron's is already a winner when it comes to this year's BCS National Championship football game between the University of Alabama and the University of Texas. As a corporate sponsor of both universities' athletic programs, Aaron's is guaranteed a victory no matter which team wins tonight's game and will create a celebratory race program for the winning school that ...

Personal, professional growth highlight ColorTyme 2010 Convention
[January 7, 2010] ColorTyme kicks off it's 2010 annual convention in just under two weeks at the Embassy Suites in Frisco, Texas Jan. 18-20, where the rent-to-own industry's oldest rent-to-own franchisor will rally the troops for a week of networking, training, inspiration and good old fashioned fun. Already over 250 rent-to-own franchisees, managers and vendors have signed up for the convention and ...

CE to grow in 2010, according to CEA forecast
[January 7, 2010] The consumer electronics (CE) industry will generate more than $165 billion in U.S. shipment revenues this year, a slight increase from 2009, according to the semi-annual industry forecast released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). CEA President and CEO Gary Shapiro announced the forecast in his opening remarks at the 2010 International CES, the world's largest consumer ...

Whirlpool account managers achieve certified green professional designations from NAHB
[January 7, 2010] Whirlpool Corporation recently announced that Sue Reed, senior account manager Florida Contract Sales, and Mark Peterson, senior account manager Southern States Contract Sales, have earned Certified Green Professional (CGP) designations from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The CGP distinction recognizes Reed and Peterson as building industry professionals with knowledge of the best strategies for incorporating green building ...

DBL Distributing combined with new CE division
[January 6, 2010] Ingram Micro Inc., the world's largest technology distributor, today announced it will begin transitioning DBL Distributing into a formal division known as the Ingram Micro Consumer Electronics Division. Founded upon the same product line card, expert people and high quality service, the new Ingram Micro Consumer Electronics Division will build upon DBL's comprehensive mix of over 20,000 products ...

Specialty Electronics Nationwide announces partnership with CEDIA
[January 5, 2010] Specialty Electronics Nationwide (SEN) the buying group, today unveiled details of its educational partnership with the Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association (CEDIA). SEN announced that CEDIA is co-sponsoring two free instructional seminars at the SENationwide PrimeTime! and CashBack Now! event at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, February 28 - March 3, 2010. These two seminars are featured ...

LG unveils HDTVs with 'Skype' capability
[January 5, 2010] LG Electronics and Skype today announced that LG’s 2010 HDTVs with NetCast Entertainment Access will feature embedded Skype software allowing Skype users to make voice and high-definition video calls directly from their family room without a PC. Skype on the new LG HDTVs will be demonstrated this week at the International Consumer Electronics Show (Central Hall Booth #8205). ...

APRO's 2010 Legislative Conference Hotel Registration Deadline: Jan. 22
[January 4, 2010] The hotel deadline for APRO's 2010 Legislative Conference is January 22. Reserve your room today by calling the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel at 202/484-1000 and request the APRO room rate of $249 single/double. Early conference registration is critical for congressional meeting coordination and event planning throughout the conference. Please take a moment to register today online or contact Jeannie Hutchison ...

BrightHouse partners for child protection in UK
[January 4, 2010] Leo McKee, BrightHouse CEO (far left) with Giles Pegram, Director of Fundraising NSPCC (far right). BrightHouse, the UK's largest rent-to-own company, today announced a new partnership with the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) -- a national charity focused on ending child abuse. Brighthouse will help fundraise for the charity and will carry posters and ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from December 2009
Premier opens new Memphis store
[December 31, 2009] Premier Rental-Purchase dealers Chuck Botts and Bart Stamper have teamed up with former Aaron’s regional manager Fred Reed to open the newest Premier store in Memphis. They celebrated their opening in a big way with over 200 agreements in their first weeks in business. “We came in at the right time,” says Botts, a 10-year industry ...

LG introduces first mobile DTV in U.S.
[December 31, 2009] Newly-certified to comply with mobile digital television (DTV) technology now being deployed by American broadcasters, LG Electronics is introducing the industry’s first portable, battery-operated mobile DTV in the United States, designed to receive new rugged over-the-air signals being transmitted by local broadcasters. With hundreds of stations expected to sign on the air using the newly-minted technology in 2010 ...

Synnex corporation announces agreement to acquire video game distributor
[December 23, 2009] SYNNEX Corporation, a leading business process services company, announced today it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire substantially all of the North American assets of Jack of All Games, Inc. a wholly-owned subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. The acquisition of Jack of All Games provides SYNNEX with an established distribution footprint in video game hardware and ...

National TV Sales donates 10,000 lbs of food to needy Missouri families
[December 22, 2009] When Lebanon, Missouri-based National TV Sales and Rental owner Kathy Windsor read what a heavy toll the economy was taking on a local holiday food drive, the wheels began to turn. She "got the Rolodex to workin", started making phone calls to wholesale grocers and in a matter of just five days, her company purchased 10,000 pounds ...

New RTOHQ: The Magazine focuses on the 'states of rent-to-own'
[December 22, 2009] Introduction by APRO Executive Director Bill Keese, This issue of RTOHQ: The Magazine focuses on how state rental dealer associations contribute to the general health of the rent-to-own industry and provide vital information and networking opportunities to its members so that they can better operate and manage their companies and stores. While we wish we had the space to ...

InForm introduces new 'Tax Preparation' postcard
[December 21, 2009] Let customers know about your company's new tax preparation service with Inform's new effective and inexpensive "Tax Preparation" postcard mailing. InForm recently added a new addition to it’s line of stock postcards. The full color 4 X 6 "Tax Preparation" postcard is available with full color printing on the front and blank on the back, as ...

Register and make hotel reservations for APRO's 2010 Legislative Conference
[December 18, 2009] Register today for APRO’s 2010 Dave Egan Legislative Conference set forFebruary 23-25 in Washington, D.C., at the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel. Make your hotel reservations by calling 202/484-1000 and request the APRO room rate of $249 single/double. After 17 years of representing the rent-to-own industry before the U.S. Congress, APRO's annual legislative conference is the legislative event ...

Entrepreneur ranks RNR Custom Wheels and Tires #1 in category
[December 17, 2009] Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 ranks RNR Custom Wheels & Tires -- the country's largest custom wheel and tire rental franchise -- tops in the Miscellaneous Auto Products category for 2009. RNR's #1 ranking appears in the January 2010 issue. Larry Sutton, RNR president and longtime member of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO), said the ranking is ...

New Live Oak Rent-A-Center donates to local charities
[December 17, 2009] Rent-A-Center District Manager Kris Wolfe, Winona Edwards, Love, Inc. executive director and Rent-A-Center Manager Jeff Jones. Rent-A-Center Manager Jeff Jones is pleased to offer Live Oak and the surrounding communities a new option when it comes to acquiring ownership of high-quality furniture, appliances, electronics and computers. “From bedroom sets to washers and dryers, we’re going to help ...

Brothers Moody open Premier Rental-Purchase store in Tuscaloosa.
[December 17, 2009] Brothers Chad and Jeffery Moody opened their second Premier Rental-Purchase store recently – this one in Tuscaloosa, Al. It was always part of the plan to open another store since they debuted in Columbus, Miss. in mid 2008, but according to Jeffery, it just happened faster than they had anticipated. “We always intended to open a second store ...

Rent-2-Own stores spread charity around Ohio
[December 16, 2009] Everyone at Countryside Rent-2-Own expected a big number. But this year, that number was 43 percent larger than what company president Mike Tissot expected. And when he’s surprised, it's bound to be big. For several years, Bainbridge, Ohio-based Countryside Rent-2-Own stores have selected a week in December during which a percentage of deliveries or growth in potential rent ...

'Cash for Appliances' money begins flowing to states
[December 16, 2009] The U.S. Department Of Energy last week began releasing some $300 million promised to states as part of the federal government's Appliance Stimulus Rebate effort, aimed at spurring sagging appliance sales and promoting the use of more energy efficient appliances. Similar to the "cash for clunkers" program, the "Cash for Appliances" rebate program is part of ...

Oklahoma dealer seeks county commissioner post
[December 15, 2009] Jim Rogers, 50, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma is running for district 3 county commissioner of Sequoyah County. The position is now held by Mike Huff who defeated Rogers by 13 votes in 2006 and has indicated he will seek a second term. "We have an abundance of potential here," said Rogers, owner of Gem's Rent-to-Own. "Sometimes it's ...

BlackBox GPS encourages 'going green' initiative
[December 14, 2009] BlackBox GPSis committed to implementing 'green'initiatives and recognizes its GPS fleet monitoring solutionsproductsforthe RTO industry helpimplement environmentally sustainable practices too. "We recognize that with each seemingly small stepeach business leadertakes toward environmental sustainability," said Robin Standlee, CEO at Blackbox GPS, "together weare making asignificant positive impact for this and future generations. In the not-so-distant past, implementing ...

RTO makes appearance on Christmas retail survey
[December 14, 2009] Rent-to-own this weekend, made its first appearance on an annual holiday survey that targets retail shopping habits in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The annual study carried out each weekend in December by consumer research expert Britt Beemer, CEO of America's Research Group (ARG), and UBS Global Equity Research, surveyed 1,001 adults this weekend. The data points ...

Most RTOs not covered by GLB privacy regs
[December 11, 2009] Ed Winn III, APRO legal counsel. Most Rent-to-own industry dealers are not covered by the Graham-Leach-Bliley Act, which took effect in 2001, for two primary reasons according to APRO Legal Counsel Ed Winn III. The first reason is that rental purchase dealers, as a rule, "operate, maintain, or repair" the property that they rent. The second is that ...

November retail sales fuel recovery hopes
[December 11, 2009] Retail sales in November breathed life into forecasts of an economy on the mend, rising more than expected in November, boosting hopes that consumer spending will support the fragile economic recovery, according to the AP. The government's report came as a surprise to the nation's retailers who have been reporting generally lackluster results for the start of the holiday ...

Rent-A-Center pitches in for Missouri homeless shelter
[December 10, 2009] With help from the Rent-A-Center Random Act of Caring initiative, City Union Mission in Kansas City will be able to better serve local poverty stricken and homeless men, women and children. Rent-A-Center is donating: 10 computer monitors, washer, dryer, 42” monitor, Blu-ray Home theater system, chair/twin sleeper, laptop computer and two media cabinets. Since 1924, City Union Mission has ...

Rent-A-Center furnishes homes for New Orleans "Katrina" families
[December 9, 2009] A mere four years ago, New Orleans, and indeed much of the Gulf Coast, was crushed in the maw of Hurricane Katrina. Today, five families are returning to New Orleans to rebuilt homes furnished by Rent-A-Center through its Random Acts of Caring initiative. Rebuilt by the St. Bernard Project (SBP) after their destruction by Hurricane Katrina, Rent-A-Center is furnishing ...

Retail customer satisfaction tanks
[December 8, 2009] A new study released today by The SALT & Pepper Group finds that retailers’ customer service leaves much to be desired. In fact the new study pegs service at only 48.2 out of 100. The new stats show a marked discrepancy between the relatively low customer service ratings in retail versus the high customer service ratings surveyed among ...

National TV Sales honors outstanding employees
[December 8, 2009] Award winners at the National TV Sales and Rental Christmas party this weekend. National TV Sales and Rental this Saturday held its annual employee Christmas party and awards banquet at Andy's 417 in Lebanon, Missouri where 12 of the company's top employees were honored. Taking home the top honor was National TV Sales and Rental 2009 Employee of the ...

RTO Pro Software launches new Web site
[December 8, 2009] RTO Pro Software, the rent to own industry's leading Windows-based management system serving over 900 RTO locations, announces the debut of the company's re-designed website www.rtopro.com. "With the addition of so many new RTO Locations over the past several months, the time was right to update the RTO Pro Website to be as professional as the ...

Rent-A-Center promotes new planning and development Sr. VP
[December 8, 2009] Joel Mussat, new Sr. Vice President of Strategic Planning and Development. Rent-A-Center today announced the promotion of Joel Mussat to Sr. Vice President – Strategic Planning and Development. His new expanded responsibilities will include business development – new business, acquisitions and program management – in addition to his current strategic planning responsibilities. Mussat, who has been with Rent-A-Center for ...

Weekend sales foretell bleak holiday retail season, study asserts
[December 7, 2009] Britt Beemer, CEO of America's Research Group A new Christmas Retail Survey released today by America's Research Group (ARG) and UBS Global Equity Research reveals that sales are weaker this year than in 2008 contrary to some forecasts of an improved holiday shopping season. Of those consumers not shopping, an overwhelming 95.1 percent said they will wait until ...

RTO supporter former U.S. Sen. Paula Hawkins dies at 82
[December 7, 2009] Former Sen. Paula Hawkins U.S. Sen. Paula Hawkins, the sponsor of the original rent-to-own bill in 1982 and first female U.S. senator from Florida, died last week at Florida Hospital South in Orlando. Though included as part of a larger piece of bank legislation, the RTO bill Hawkins sponsored was the only one to ever to pass ...

Study: Word of mouth guides electronics, apparel purchases
[December 7, 2009] Retailers will spend millions of dollars on advertising this holiday season, but many shoppers won’t commit to buying some gifts until hearing from people just like them that it’s worth it. According to a Retail Advertising and Marketing Association survey conducted by BIGresearch, word of mouth remains the biggest influence in people’s electronics (43.7%) and ...

Third easyhome opens in Oklahoma
[December 4, 2009] Bud Gates, Chairman and CEO of easygates, LLC announces the opening of a new easyhome franchise store. The store will open on December 5, 2009 at 916 W. Shawnee in the River City Plaza Shopping Center in Muskogee, Oklahoma. “We are thrilled to bring the easyhome concept to Muskogee," Gates said. "While this is our first ...

Aaron's associates help company 'go green'
[December 4, 2009] Aaron's next week will further propel its new 'Going Green Initiative' by picking the best entries from 100's of conservation minded ideas submitted by company associates. The generator of the selected idea, or ideas -- if more than one is deemed doable by COO Ken Butler -- wins $100. The environment however, as well as the company as a ...

Economic recovery gaining traction
[December 4, 2009] The economic recovery gained momentum in late fall as shoppers spent more and factories bumped up production. That assessment by the Federal Reserve Wednesday marked its most positive view on the economy since it toppled into recession two years ago. The Fed's new nationwide assessment found that conditions have improved since the last report in late October. Boston, New ...

RTO Conventions abound in January
[December 3, 2009] Three of rent-to-own's biggest franchise companies -- ColorTyme, RNR Custom Wheels and Tires and Premier -- will ring in the new year with annual conventions and business meetings in January. The run of events begins with the ColorTyme 2010 National Convention at the Embassy Suites in Frisco, Texas Jan. 17-20. The event, which includes a Dallas Stars Hockey Game ...

RNR teams up with Toys for Tots
[December 3, 2009] RNR Custom Wheels & Tires teamed up with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve over the last few weeks to help thousands of underprivileged Florida children have a brighter holiday season with the Toys for Tots collection program which continues through December 19. RNR is in the gift giving spirit as well, for each toy donation received at one ...

D&H rewards program unveiled
[December 2, 2009] D&H Distributing today invites its RTO store owner and dealer customers to participate in the D&H Incentives program, a rewards plan in which dealers gain points toward merchandise available at the D&H online Incentives “mall.” Enrolled dealers earn one point for every $10 of qualifying purchases. Points can be redeemed for prizes such as ...

Whirlpool named "Vendor of the Year" by Bath and Kitchen Buying Group
[December 2, 2009] Whirlpool was recently recognized with the “Vendor of the Year” award from the Bath & Kitchen Buying Group (BKBG) at its annual Fall Conference in Dallas, Texas. “This award recognizes Whirlpool Corporation for a job well done,” said Eddie Schukar, vice president of vendor relations. “The company brings a level of quality and professionalism that ...

Rent-A-Center presents at investor conference tomorrow
[December 2, 2009] Rent-A-Center will present at the Raymond James Boston Fall Investors Conference in Boston, Massachusetts on Thursday, December 3. The company will begin its presentation at 2:30 pm ET that day. Interested parties may listen to the presentation on the company’s Investor Services site at http://investor.rentacenter.com. Raymond James & Associates Equity Capital Markets holds multiple conferences each ...

Registration open for APRO's 2010 Legislative Conference
[December 1, 2009] Registration is now open for APRO’s 2010 Dave Egan Legislative Conference set forFebruary 23-25 in Washington, D.C., at the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel. Attendees should request the APRO room rate of $249/night single/double 202/484-1000. After 17 years of representing the rent-to-own industry before the U.S. Congress, APRO's annual legislative conference is the legislative event of the year. ...

Highest pending home sales since March 2006
[December 1, 2009] October pending homes sales rose for the ninth straight month and hit their highest levels since March 2006, according to data released today by the National Association of Realtors. October pending home sales were up 3.7 percent in October, compared to September, and up 32 percent versus October 2008--the biggest annual increase in history. Remember, though, October 2008 ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from November 2009
Two RNR stores sold to Rent-A-Tire
[November 30, 2009] Two Georgia Rent-N-Roll Custom Wheel and Tire stores will officially become Rent-A-Tire stores at midnight as the details of the sale are finalized. RNR Franchisee Mike Gilner of H2H Enterprises -- said the sale of the two RNR stores -- in Macon and Columbus -- will better allow him to focus on his remaining two RNR stores in Riverdale, ...

ColorTyme store helps feed local families at Thanksgiving
[November 25, 2009] On Tuesday, the ColorTyme store in Waterbury partnered with the Youth Service System (YSS) to provide local families with meals, including frozen turkeys, for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. The YSS is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the overall well being of children, youth and families. “The Waterbury YSS called me, asked me to host the event and ...

Confidence in consumer electronics soars
[November 24, 2009] Consumer confidence in consumer electronics reached the highest level in the history of the CEA-CNET Index, according to figures released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and CNET. The CEA-CNET Index of Consumer Technology Expectations (ICTE) reached 93.5, the highest level of the index since tracking began in January 2007. The ICTE, which measures consumer expectations about ...

Registration Opens for PrimeTime! Buying Show and Conference
[November 24, 2009] Nationwide Marketing Group announced today that online registration (www.nationwideprimetime.com) is now open for their upcoming PrimeTime! buying show and conference at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada on February 28 – March 3, 2010. “The retail market and consumer profile has changed dramatically over the last few years,” said Robert Weisner, Executive Vice ...

Rent-A-Center opens 43rd Oklahoma store, contributes $2K in community grants
[November 23, 2009] Rent-A-Center Manager David Testerman is pleased to offer Tahlequah and the surrounding communities a new option when it comes to acquiring ownership of high-quality furniture, appliances, electronics and computers. “From bedroom sets to washers and dryers, we’re going to help people find what they need and a payment option that works for them,” says Testerman, who ...

Second easyhome opens in Wichita
[November 20, 2009] Bud Gates, Chairman and CEO of easygates, LLC, announces the opening of the second Wichita easyhome store. The store will open at 407 E. Pawnee (Pawnee and Broadway) on November 21, 2009. Mr. Gates stated: “This will be our second easyhome store in Wichita, KS and the 27th in the United States. Despite difficult economic conditions, our first ...

Rent-A-Center donations benefit MPowering Kids and the Littig House Community Center
[November 20, 2009] Rent-A-Center representatives make donation to local programs. Rent-A-Center helped brighten the day for area youth and their families who participate in programs provided by MPowering Kids and the Littig House Community Center in New York. Representatives from Rent-A-Center stores from the area delivered eight new computers and a $1,300 check to the MPowering Kids programs; and presented a ...

Rent-A-Center outfits substance abuse headquarters in Long Island
[November 20, 2009] Rent-A-Center staff present contribution to Long Island non-profit. Representatives from Rent-A-Center stores in Suffolk County delivered and assembled $6,000 in electronics and furniture to the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (LICADD) for the organization’s new office in Suffolk County (Ronkonkoma) which will now serve more area teens and families in need. The donation is ...

DKD job training program to help 'wire' southern Illinois
[November 20, 2009] The Congressman Danny K. Davis Job Training Program -- based in Chicago -- and The Digital Development Corporation, this week announced a collaboration with four technology companies and three southern Illinois towns to implement a three tier project that would create jobs, deploy broadband Internet and train community residents for ‘high end’ technology jobs. Working to deploy broadband ...

Premier 2010 annual convention set for Orlando, January 25-27
[November 19, 2009] The Premier Companies announced its 2010 Annual Dealer Convention will be in Orlando, Fla. from January 25-27 at the JW Marriott Grand Lakes. With the theme of “Celebrating Excellence,” Premier’s Executive Team is making plans for a “bigger than ever” event, with expected attendance to be over 200 dealers, families, vendors and guests. “We ...

Senate health care bill introduced
[November 19, 2009] Democratic Senate majority leader Harry Reid of Nevada, Wednesday unveiled his party's proposal for overhauling the health care system, outlining legislation Democrats say would cover most of the uninsured while reducing the federal budget deficit. The impact the proposed legislation would have on small businesses differs from the House version of the bill introduced last week. Reid said at ...

Whirlpool issues global sustainability report
[November 18, 2009] Whirlpool Corporation, the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, today announced the release of the company’s first global, comprehensive sustainability report. The report provides an overview of the company’s efforts to make a sustainable difference in the world. The company also produces an annual report and, for the first time, is making a detailed ...

RAC names Feiler new VP of development
[November 18, 2009] Trey Feiler, Rent-A-Center's new vice president of development. Rent-A-Center today announced the appointment of Trey Feiler to vice president of development. Reporting to Dave West, executive vice president of operational services, Feiler is charged with administration of the Company’s real estate, construction and facilities departments. “In his new position, Feiler will develop all-new facilities while managing existing ...

Study: Holiday shoppers will use cash, debit cards, less credit
[November 17, 2009] It’s the year for a little more green and a little less plastic, according to NRF’s 2009 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions survey. Conducted by BIGresearch, the study found one-fourth (24.9%) of holiday shoppers will pay for gifts this year with cash, a 9.1 percent increase from last year’s 22.8 percent. In addition, ...

DAC Products announce point of sale counter system
[November 17, 2009] DAC Products, a leading manufacturer of retail merchandising fixtures, today announced it has developed a system to give RTO stores an easy, customizable, upscale, and cost effective cash wrap option. DAC's new modular point of sale counters allow unlimited possibilities in configuring a layout for your unique space. “We are tuned in to today’s RTO and retail ...

Auto sales drive positive retail numbers; furniture, appliance sales down
[November 16, 2009] Retail sales rose more than expected in October, pushed largely by a marked rebound in auto sales. However, take out the influence of car purchases and the numbers are far less promising. Sales fell at many other retail stores as consumer spending continues to remain reserved, raising questions about the durability of the recovery, according to stats released today ...

Aaron's awards grand prize in national contest
[November 16, 2009] Aaron's Inc. recently surprised Ruth Usher, the grand prize winner of Aaron's National Lucky Dog Day Sweepstakes in Perry, Georgia with a houseful of furniture, name-brand appliances and electronics valued at $14,000. Watch the video here http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/shopaarons/41191/ "Aaron's strongly believes in giving back to our customers, especially during difficult economic times," said Robin Loudermilk, ...

DATATrue assigns full time RTO training head
[November 12, 2009] Katherine Rowse DATATrue recently announced the addition of a corporate trainer dedicated specifically to the RTO industry. Katherine Rowse has been assigned to the RTO training division in support of the much needed demand for new employee training on the DATATrue product line and interpretation of response packages. It is clearly apparent the challenge that many dealers face when ...

BrightHouse reaches 190 stores
[November 12, 2009] BrightHouse store 190 in Consett. BrightHouse, the UK's leading and largest rent-to-own retailer this week opened its 190th store in Consett, County Durham. "Consett is our thirteenth new store opening since the beginning of our current financial year in April.," Leo McKee, BrightHouse CEO said. "It represents a milestone in our strategy of opening stores in ...

Consumer protection, financial stability at core of sweeping Dodd bill
[November 11, 2009] Sen. Chris Dodd Tuesday introduced a wide-ranging financial-regulatory-overhaul measure, seeking more ambitious changes in some areas than envisioned by the White House or proposed by the House of Representatives. Dodd's discussion draft, running more than 1,100 pages, proposes financial reform legislation that would fundamentally change the country's financial landscape and create a unified super-regulator to oversee all the ...

Sutton honored by charitable mission
[November 11, 2009] Pastor Craig Altman with RNR founder Larry Sutton. Pastor Craig Altman of Grace Family Church in Tampa recently presented RNR Custom Wheels and Tires owner Larry Sutton a plaque in recognition and appreciation for providing his Rent-N-Roll location as a site to feed the Tampa Bay homeless and others that are struggling in this economy. For the past year ...

Speese honored for lifetime of entrepreneurship
[November 10, 2009] Mark Speese Mark Speese, chairman and CEO of Rent-A-Center, will receive the Murphy Award on Friday at the BDO Seidman LLP Leadership Luncheon at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas. The luncheon benefits the University of North Texas Murphy Center for Entrepreneurship and the award is given to an individual who has demonstrated a lifetime commitment to entrepreneurship. Former Dallas ...

Healthcare reform and the RTO impact
[November 9, 2009] The U.S. House late Saturday, narrowly passed a $1-trillion health-reform package that includes compulsory insurance, tax hikes for the wealthy and a clause to prevent insurers from rejecting customers with pre-existing conditions. Despite House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's and President Barack Obama's optimism, the bill -- the Affordable Health Care for America Act -- faces an uphill battle in ...

Rent One sponsored "Fitnessgram" making an impact in southern Illinois
[November 9, 2009] Larry Carrico presents "Fitnessgram" participants with gold thank you coins. Students at the Mt. Vernon District 80 schools are making the most of a program grant to improve their physical fitness and health. Since the beginning of the school year, second and third grade classes have been utilizing the Fitnessgram software provided by Rent One as a major ...

Brighthouse booms in recession
[November 9, 2009] Brighthouse, the rent -to-own retailer is booming as recession-hit families on low incomes line up to purchase flat screens and living room sets. The UK's largest RTO company, which has 188 shops, said its earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortization jumped by 23.7 per cent to £14.6m ($24.2 million) over the past six months ...

New easyhome store to open in Oklahoma City
[November 6, 2009] Bud Gates, Chairman and CEO of easygates today announced a new franchise store is opening on Southwest 59th Street in the Walker Center Shopping Center in Oklahoma City tomorrow. “We are elated to introduce this new market to the easyhome concept," Gates said. "Tim Green, our Regional Manager, has put together a great team led by ...

Fast Track Services offers APRO member exclusive
[November 6, 2009] Fast Track Services, an Arlington, Texas-based print, marketing and promotional service provider, is offering a DIY direct mail tool custom designed for the rent-to-own industry which is currently available only to APRO member companies. The RTO portal allows rent-to-owns to design and customize a variety of postcard mailers, select and purchase demographically targeted mailing lists and send them out ...

BlackBoxGPS hires operation manager
[November 6, 2009] BlackBoxGPS today announced the appointment of Bradford Hamilton to head operations. In light of continued growth of the GPS monitoring service for fleet vehicles and to keep up with growing demand, especially in the delivery vehicle fleet markets, BlackBoxGPS announces the appointment of Bradford Hamilton to head operations. Hamilton was previously chief operating officer of One Source Telecom, a ...

Jobless rate worst since early 80's
[November 6, 2009] The unemployment rate hit 10.2 percent in October, surpassing 10 percent for the first time since 1983. The Labor Department said Friday that the jobless rate rose from 9.8 percent in September. The economy shed a net total of 190,000 jobs in October, less than the revised 219,000 lost in September, but more than economists ...

Premier dealers open second Maine store
[November 6, 2009] Jim Ratner and John Reichenbach Jim Ratner and John Reichenbach last month opened their second Premier store in Auburn, Maine not long after the anniversary of the opening of their first store in Westbrook, Maine. Partners by accident, they have enjoyed success on several fronts, not the least of which is their ability to build on each other’s ...

Retailer gains beat expectations
[November 5, 2009] A drop in unemployment claims and better than expected gains by retailers last month have some analysts suggesting the combined news may be a strong sign the economy is heading north just ahead of the holiday season. The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits dropped last week, according to a weekly Labor Department report, with a total figure ...

Alliance HealthCard promotes Denison to executive vice president
[November 5, 2009] Alliance Health Card, parent company of rent-to-own program provider Benefit Marketing Solutions, today announced the promotion of Bradley W. Denison to executive vice president. Denison, who joined the company in early 2006, will continue in his role as general counsel and secretary for the company. He began as general counsel of Benefit Marketing Solutions and had formerly been senior ...

3-D TVs heading for masses in 2010
[November 4, 2009] The next frontier in television technology is here and heading to retail outlets next year. Just don't forget your glasses. Sony and Panasonic say they will release home 3-D television systems in 2010; JVC is not far behind. All of Mitsubishi's current model Home Theater TVs are 3-D ready and are offered in screen sizes from 60 inches to ...

TRIB Group adds second buying show
[November 4, 2009] TRIB Group’s Board of Directors recently finalized the decision that the 2010 Meeting of the Minds will be held at the Paris Resort in Las Vegas on August 30, 2010 in conjunction with the Brand Source convention. This move solidifies the addition of a second annual TRIB Group buy fair opportunity that will take place Aug. 31 and ...

KLQ's Mary Reopelle dies
[November 3, 2009] Mary Reopelle Mary Reopelle, long time office manager for KLQ Enterprises died October 30 from complications attributed to the swine flu. Reopelle leaves behind her husband Mark, Quality Rentals Inc. Warehouse General Manager & Buyer, daughter Becky and Son Danny. Both Becky and Danny have worked for Quality Rentals since out of school in the summers and both have ...

DATATrue announces national skip/stolen database
[November 3, 2009] DATATrue, the original front end information verification service, today announced the release of Alert1One -- a new national skip/stolen database tool in the fight against fraud and loss. DATATrue specializes in creative and effective methods to reduce fraud and loss by early detection of false data provided customers who encompass the majority of the industry's charged off accounts. “...

easyhome announces Q3 conference call and Webcast
[November 2, 2009] Canada-based easyhome will hold its quarterly management conference call with shareholders, analysts and portfolio managers on Tuesday, November 10, 2009 to discuss the company's third quarter performance. The results will be issued by news release after the market closes on Monday, November 9, 2009. Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 Time: 4 p.m. EST Dial-in: toll-free: 1-888-789-9572 or 416-695-7806 ...

2009 tax deduction for BlackBox GPS fleet tracking equipment
[November 2, 2009] GPS Fleet equipment purchases may qualify rent to own companies for the Section 179 deduction. BlackBox GPS, the leading GPS fleet routing and monitoring solution for the RTO, furniture & appliance industry confirms their GPS tracking is tax deductible under Section 179 for 2009. Today Co-Founder, Steven Muntean reports that business owners and managers who act quickly and order ...

ColorTyme Webinar today
[November 2, 2009] ColorTyme today is hosting the rent-to-own company's first-ever Webinar for its franchisees. During the secure online presentation, ColorTyme CEO Bob Bloom will offer franchise owners a detailed presentation that will include industry trends and current initiatives. “We’re excited to communicate with our franchise owners through this Webinar,” said Bloom. “ColorTyme is always introducing new, innovative ...

New Premier store opens in Orlando
[November 2, 2009] Steve Dovale is an entrepreneur. He has owned several businesses including a cookie company, a construction firm and an outdoor screen enclosure and pool deck operation – each a franchise. So when he had the opportunity to purchase a furniture store from a friend last year, he naturally looked around for franchise options and found Premier Home Furnishings. He ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from October 2009
Will the future of your business depend on social media networking?
[October 29, 2009] A recent book out by business author Erik Qualman, entitled Socialnomics, states the future of your business will depend on your branding through social media networking. Social media networks first became popular with MySpace. Now the most current popular sites are Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter among others. In Qualcom's book, he cites the following statistics on why you as ...

Northwest Rental Dealers Association Meeting Postponed
[October 28, 2009] The Northwest Rental Dealers Association (NWRDA) meeting scheduled for November 11, 2009, in Tacoma, Washington, has been postponed. A new meeting date has not been set. Notices will be sent once the meeting has been rescheduled. NWRDA serves the states of Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington. E-mail Kevin Quinn if you need more information regarding NWRDA or the rescheduled ...

Sliding consumer confidence fuel uncertainty for consumers
[October 28, 2009] Consumer confidence fell unexpectedly in October as job prospects remained bleak, a private research group said Tuesday, fueling speculation that an already gloomy holiday shopping forecast could worsen. The Consumer Confidence Index, released by The Conference Board, dropped to 47.7 in October -- its second-lowest reading since May. "Consumers also remain quite pessimistic about their future earnings, ...

APRO's 2010 Rent-to-Own Convention to be held in Louisville, KY
[October 27, 2009] The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations’ (APRO) board of directors has selected Louisville, Kentucky, as the host city for the association’s 30th birthday celebration, July 19–22. APRO’s 2010 Rent-to-Own Convention will be held at Louisville’s Marriott Downtown and the Kentucky International Convention Center. The APRO board’s selection of Louisville was unanimous. “We are ...

APRO trade show created business opportunities for American Rentals and Charles Cloud
[October 27, 2009] During APRO's recent trade show in Las Vegas, American Rentals CEO David David jokingly asked previous owner Gary McDougal if he wanted to buy his stores back. Former APRO Board member and RTO dealer, Charles Cloud, overheard the conversation and now the deal has been struck bringing Cloud back into the RTO business after nearly a decade. Cloud, who ...

Rent-A-Center beats estimates
[October 27, 2009] Rent-A-Center Inc. reported a quarterly profit that beat Wall Street estimates helped by improved margins. Total revenues for the quarter ended September 30, 2009 were $671.3 million. Net earnings and net earnings per diluted share for the quarter ended September 30, 2009 were $36.8 million and $0.55. "I am pleased with our results for the ...

Credit Card industry criticized for punishing credit free consumers
[October 26, 2009] The no-debt, credit free rent-to-own transaction continues to be a viable consumer option as credit tightens and customers choose other methods to purchase products and services. According to finance expert, Carmen Wong Ulrich, credit card companies are adding fees and raising interest rates. These aggressive hike in fees and interest rates are a result of Congress applying new regulations ...

Aarons cited as top twelve stock picks
[October 26, 2009] Bloomberg columnist, John Dorfman, cited Aaron's Inc, as one twelve "stocks that save my screen." Aaron's recent third quarter results show a 6.8% increase in same store sales. Dorfman states "Aaron’s financial results are attractive. Sales have grown at a 16 percent annual clip the past five years, earnings at 18 percent. This year ...

Ina Mahoney funeral details released
[October 24, 2009] Ina Mahoney, 52, beloved industry friend and veteran products buyer for Tampa-based Buddy's Home Furnishings for over 25-years, died in her home Oct. 23 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Details are as follows: Visitation: Tuesday October 27th, 6 to 8pm, Loyless Funeral Home, 5310 Land O Lakes Blvd, Land O Lakes, FL 34639. Funeral Celebration: Wednesday October 28th, ...

Long-time Buddy's Buyer Ina Mahoney dies
[October 23, 2009] Ina Mahoney, 52, beloved industry friend and veteran products buyer for Tampa-based Buddy's Home Furnishings for over 25-years, died in her home Friday morning after a prolonged battle with cancer. Buddy's President Joe Gazzo issued the following statement to RTO Today: "I am deeply saddened to inform you that Ina Mahoney, an amazing woman known for her dedication ...

Marketing basics: Don't sell your promotion short
[October 23, 2009] As the holiday season quickly approaches, store managers and marketing types are planning holiday “events.” It may be radio, TV, direct mail, email blasts or an in-store promotion. Rent-to-own professionals plan each and every one of these strategies very carefully but too often “sell them short” without ever realizing it. Whether radio, TV, direct mail or ...

BlackBox GPS RoutePlanner hits home run
[October 23, 2009] BlackBox GPS, a leading provider of fleet solutions for delivery and service vehicles announces the victory of RoutePlanner as an invaluable tool for BlackBox GPS customers. “We've had an overwhelming amount of positive feedback regarding the RoutePlanning feature," said company Co-Founder Steven Muntean. "It's great to know that we are able to facilitate the day to ...

MRDA hosts 'Traveling Roadshow' fall trainings
[October 23, 2009] Computer training at MRDA's Heartland of America show this summer. The Missouri Rental Dealers Association next week is once again hosting its popular three day "Traveling Roadshow" training seminars where rent-to-own employees will get up to speed on the latest trends in computers, electronics and appliances. Download brochure and registration form here. Last year 150 area rent-to-own professionals ...

Consumer Protection Agency passes key committee
[October 22, 2009] The U.S. House Financial Services Committee today approved creation of a controversial Consumer Financial Protection Agency (CFPA), charged with writing rules for mortgage and credit card lenders and other financial service providers which could include rent-to-own. In a partisan vote that represents the largest expansion of financial service regulation since the 1930's, lawmakers in the House Financial Services ...

Aaron's Inc. Q3: Same store revenues up 6.3%
[October 22, 2009] Aaron's Wednesday announced revenues and earnings for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009. A replay of the company's conference call on the report is available here. For the third quarter of 2009, revenues increased 7% to $415.3 million compared to $388.0 million for the same period last year. Net earnings from continuing operations rose ...

Illinois dealers weigh new agency concerns, elect new president
[October 21, 2009] IRDA Board Memers with Jill Young Shurtz (third from right), president/CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Central Illinois. APRO's 'State Association of the Year' -- The Illinois Rental-Purchase Dealers Association -- convened Wednesday at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Springfield, Illinois to mull a range of issues ranging from legislative and legal updates to sales tax audits ...

High Touch releases 'Business Intelligence' (BI) application
[October 20, 2009] High Touch today announced the release of its high-value Business Intelligence (BI) application to complement its PRO/Store point-of-sale software. The web-based application is designed to provide clients with the power to slice-and-dice data for analysis of what happened, when it happened and why it happened. The delivery of Business Intelligence (BI Basic) is the first version of this new ...

Members Only: APRO 2009 Customer Satisfaction Survey released
[October 20, 2009] APRO's 2009 Customer Satisfaction Survey -- an invaluable customer service, marketing and advertising guidepost -- will be delivered today electronically to APRO members only. This twice a decade study was conducted by leading rent-to-own customer satisfaction expert Britt Beemer of America's Research Group. America's Research Group is one of the premiere household consumer research companies in the country. Beemer ...

Aaron's signs continued Partnership with Atlanta Hawks, Thrashers and Philips Arena
[October 20, 2009] Aaron's Inc. today announced a continued partnership with the Atlanta Hawks, the Atlanta Thrashers and Philips Arena. Aaron's is the only Hawks, Thrashers and Philips Arena partner with a specific Hawks game-night of the week dedicated to the company. "Aaron's Lucky Dog Wednesdays" is a unique franchise position that will be a part of the Atlanta Hawks ticket ...

Pennsylvania dealers pitch in for 'Computers for Kidz'
[October 19, 2009] Over a dozen Pennsylvania rental dealers from across the state joined forced recently for the Pennsylvania Association of Rental Dealers annual meeting at the Harrisburg Hilton. As APRO's "Most Improved State Association" PARD members voted to get behind a community outreach initiative and alloted $5,000 towards the purchase of computers as part of the rent-to-own industry's "...

New York dealers hit $40K goal for Special Olympics
[October 19, 2009] Premier Companies CEO Trooper Earle with NYSRDA President Dave Edwards at the association's fall meeting Oct. 15. The New York State Rental Dealers Association held its fall membership meeting Thursday, Oct. 15 at the Turning Stone Casino in Verona, New York where over 50 rental professionals turned out for legislative updates, vendor presentations and industry training. A highlight of ...

Whirlpool named one of the top 50 U.S. companies for social responsibility
[October 19, 2009] Whirlpool Corporation was named one of the top 50 U.S. companies for Social Responsibility by the Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship and Reputation Institute. Based on a recent survey of U.S. consumers conducted by the Reputation Institute, Whirlpool earned a rating of 72.24, ranking it 23rd on the 2009 Boston College Corporate Social Responsibility Index ...

RTOHQ: The Magazine - APRO's 2009 Buddy Award Winners
[October 19, 2009] The latest issue of RTOHQ: The Magazine hits mailboxes this week and features a long look at those rental dealers whose achievements garnered industry-wide recognition this year with the presentation of a "Buddy". The featured articles in the September-October 2009 issue focus on APRO’s 2009 Rental Dealer of the Year, Vendor of the Year, President’s Award ...

2010 census will show a new customer in America
[October 16, 2009] A recent Ad Age report shows that the nearly 310 million Americans in 2010 reflect a new breakdown of American consumers. The demographics of Americans dictate marketing, advertising and ultimately sales for retail businesses. "The concept of an 'average American' is gone, probably forever," demographics expert Peter Francese writes in 2010 America, a new Ad Age white ...

KRDA elects new officers
[October 15, 2009] The Kansas Rental Dealers Association held its annual meeting Wednesday at the Prairie Band Casino in Mayetta Kansas where 28 attending rent-to-own dealers elected a new slate of officers. KRDA members elected Tyson Johnson (Rent-A-Center) as president, Steve Wine (Rent 1st) vice president and Shaun Rusch (Triad Leasing) as secretary/treasurer. Vaughn Burkholder, Employee Law attorney, updated attendees on employment ...

Rent One 'Day on the Diamond' scores with vendors, community
[October 14, 2009] Southern Illinois community leaders join Rent One and Ronald McDonald House St. Louis representatives Wednesday for Rent One's presentation of the first $10,000 of a $100,000 commitment to Ronald McDonald House. With an entire minor league baseball park at their disposal, Rent One managers braved drizzling rain Wednesday to thank vendors from over 30 companies at the ...

Industry furthers job training program with computer, cash donation
[October 13, 2009] Casey Pristou with training program executive director Lowry Taylor. Casey Pristou, President of Aaron's Franchisee Watershed Development Corporation, recently met with Lowry Taylor, executive director of the Chicago-based Danny K. Davis Job Training Program (DKDJTP), to donate a van load of used desktop and laptop computers, LCD TV’s and other miscellaneous technology items. The equipment will be used ...

IContain expands into new international markets, passes on savings to RTO
[October 13, 2009] Profit protection has been heralded as the number one issue for companies during the economic downturn. IContain's products are designed to save RTO owners losses and protect profits by reducing the cost of collections, unwarrented customer visits, missed opportunities to collect product and harassment lawsuits resulting from overzealous managers trying to collect money rightfully owed to the store. Recently, ...

'Cash for Appliances' rebate program on its way
[October 13, 2009] Thursday October 15th is the deadline for states to submit their detailed plan to execute the U.S. Department of Energy's "Cash for Appliances" program. Guidelines and eligibility requirements are determined by each state. According to the U.S. Department of Energy spokeswoman, Chris Kielich, the consumer does not have to trade-in their old refrigerator or washer and ...

Gainesville ColorTyme takes donations for injured local man
[October 13, 2009] The community of Gainesville was devastated recently after a horrifying motorcycle accident left Ron Hertell – passionate family man and community member – incapacitated and seriously injured. Hertell’s injuries are so significant that doctor’s predict that he will require a year of rehabilitation, which leaves him unable to work for a considerable period of time. Mike Gavidia, ...

Credit no longer the popular choice to acquire household goods
[October 13, 2009] According to the recent Nilson Report, the tightening of credit and high unemployment are changing consumer behavior when acquiring household goods and a large majority of economists say the country's slow recovery will continue with consumers decreasing use of credit. "Think about what's happening in the economy," said Trish Preston, head of U.S. debit for MasterCard. ...

TARA Southwest Buying Show kicks off new era
[October 12, 2009] New TARA President William McCrae (far right) shares a laugh with Bailey Street sales reps. Barbara Giles (l) and Jose Ramos. TARA's 26th annual convention and buying show continued Monday as dealers from across the Lone Star State took advantage of educational industry updates and browsed booths represented by close to 30 exhibiting companies. While recent company conversions, buyouts ...

Rent-A-Center furnishes Wichita Children's Home
[October 12, 2009] The Wichita Children’s Home received a welcome boost today from Rent-A-Center’s Random Acts of Caring initiative. With new furniture, electronics, and appliances from Rent-A-Center, the Children’s Home will be able to better serve local children and their families. Rent-A-Center is donating: · Two sofas · Two sleeper sofas · 46” HDTV · 10 twin beds · ...

New TARA President McCrae promises government affairs focus
[October 11, 2009] William McCrae is elected TARA's new president Sunday. William McCrae, president of Buzz's Lease Purchase and Sales became the new president of the Texas Association of Rental Agencies Sunday at the opening of the association's 26th annual convention and southwest buying show at the Intercontinental Hotel in Addison, Texas. McCrae replaces outgoing president Dan Matthews of Rent Plus. Listen ...

New easygates store opens in Tulsa
[October 10, 2009] Bud Gates, Chairman and CEO of easygates, LLC announces the opening of a new U.S. franchise store. The store opened yesterday on East 31st Street in the Garnett Crossing Shopping Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. “We are elated to bring the easyhome concept to Oklahoma," Gates said. "This is the first of what will be several ...

Rent One pledges $100K to build new St. Louis Ronald McDonald House
[October 9, 2009] Rent One owner Larry Carrico (far right) at last year's 'Days at the Diamond' event at Rent One Park. Rent One is pledging $100,000 to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Metro St. Louis at the company’s “Days at the Diamond Annual Vendor Appreciation Days” at 4 p.m., Oct. 14, at Rent One Park in Marion, ...

Rent-A-Center outfits Mississippi teen room
[October 7, 2009] Representatives of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi andRent-A-Center will join together for a dedication ceremony opening a new “RAC Room” for teens at the Club in Jackson, Mississippi on Thursday, Oct. 15. Teens at this Boys & Girls Clubhouse will have a much improved positive place to hang out and call their own, thanks to a ...

TRIB 'Meeting of the Minds' hosts record breaking crowd
[October 7, 2009] R to L: Chris Bolin (Bolin Rental Purchase), Chris Raffo (Home Express) and Ken Mashburn at TRIB Group's annual "Meeting of the Minds" event Wednesday. A record number of rental dealers from around the country wrapped up a full day of networking Wednesday at TRIB Group's annual "Meeting of the Minds" at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel in ...

Loudermilk to Georgia dealers: 'Satisfy the customer'
[October 7, 2009] L to R: Charles Loudermilk Sr., Ernie Lewallen, Jeff Klopp and Mark Kresch chat after the GRDA meeting today in Atlanta. Charles Loudermilk Sr., 82, founder and chairman of Aaron's Inc., had a simple message for attendees at the annual meeting of the Georgia Rental Dealers Association Wednesday in Atlanta. "Satisfy the customer," Loudermilk said. "It ...

'Tiger' addresses Aaron's Franchise Association
[October 6, 2009] "Tiger" John Cleek at Aaron's Franchise Association annual meeting. 'Tiger' John Cleek, president of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) and recently converted Aaron's franchisee, addressed a crowd of around 300 at the Aaron's Franchise Association annual meeting Tuesday morning at the Ritz Carlton in Atlanta. Cleek converted his family's 52-year-old family business from Cleek’s to ...

Aarons makes U.S. News and World Report's top ten businesses
[October 6, 2009] The October 5th U.S. News and World Report's Money section features Aaron's as one of the top ten businesses doing well in today's economy. The article by Rick Newman reflects the recent positive media attention rent-to-own has received in today's economy. The article also reflects the many advances in pricing and payment options while featuring rent-to-own's unique niche ...

Rent-A-Center outfits new Phoenix area Boys and Girls Club
[October 5, 2009] Representatives of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Phoenix and Rent-A-Center, Thursday will formally dedicate a new “RAC Room” for teens at the Club, furnished with merchandise form Rent-A-Center. Teens at the Boys & Girls Clubhouse will finally have a positive place to hang out and call their own, thanks to a joint venture with Boys & Girls ...

Georgia dealers welcome Loudermilk at annual meeting Wednesday
[October 5, 2009] Charlie Loudermilk Sr. presented with the APRO Lifetime Achievement Award last year in St. Louis. The Georgia Rental Dealers Association welcomes Charlie Loudermilk Sr., entrepreneur, philanthropist and chairman of the second largest rent-to-own business in the country, Aaron's, Inc. at its annual meeting Wednesday. Loudermilk headlines a packed agenda beginning at 9 a.m. at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel ...

New easyhome opens in Omaha
[October 4, 2009] Bud Gates, Chairman and CEO of easygates, this weekend announced a new easyhome franchise store opening on October 3, 2009, in Omaha, Nebraska. The store is the first opened by JSNB Enterprises, LLC, an easyhome franchise owned by Jerry Stine and Vernell Jackson. “We are thrilled to partner with Jerry and Vernell as franchisees and excited they are ...

Rent-A-Center outfits new Brooklyn Boys and Girls Club
[October 2, 2009] Teens at the Thomas S. Murphy Clubhouse in Brooklyn will finally have a positive place to hang out and call their own, thanks to a partnership between Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) and Rent-A-Center, Inc. Teenagers are a tough group to impress, but the new RAC Rooms will help attract more teens by furnishing a cool and ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from September 2009
Consumer Confidence Drops, Consumer Credit Tightens
[September 30, 2009] A recent Conference Board study shows consumer confidence in the retail market dropped this month. Consumer confidence is trying to gain momentum but unemployment and shaky confidence in the market keeps purchases stagnating. These trends have retail markets worried going into the busy Christmas season. On the housing market side, new federal regulations tightened credit guidelines leaving many customers ...

Product training, networking highlight RTO Expo
[September 30, 2009] L TO R: Mark Griffith, Brooke Smith and Lee Fink with Countryside Rent-2-Own at a product demonstration by Bob Brandlin of SilkoRadio. Over 150 rent-to-own dealers packed training rooms Wednesday to get up to speed on the latest product innovations in electronics, appliances, computers and furniture at the sixth annual Midwest RTO Expo at the Concourse Conference Center in ...

TRIB Group 'Meeting of the Minds' next week
[September 30, 2009] TRIB Group’s annual Meeting of the Minds event kicks off in one week and is on track to be the best attended event to date. The event will be held next week, October 7-8, 2009 at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The event is free of charge for TRIB Group members and special ...

BlackBox GPS proves a win for RTO owners, managers
[September 30, 2009] BlackBox GPS is the leading provider of fleet monitoring and tracking solutions for the RTO industry. “We have been overwhelmed with the positive feedback from our current RTO clients, and intend on continuing to be the leading GPS solution provider for the Rent-To-Own industry” ” states Austin Kocielko, Fleet Management Consultant for BlackBox GPS. Sandy from Buck's Furniture, ...

Midwest RTO Expo opens with reception, bowling
[September 29, 2009] Ohio State Rep. Seth Morgan and ORDA President Scott Kinnear officially open the 2009 Midwest Expo in Columbus, Ohio Tuesday. The sixth annual Midwest RTO Training Expo -- the brainchild of the Ohio Rental Dealers Association (ORDA) -- kicked off Tuesday evening at the Concourse Hotel and Conference Center in Columbus, Ohio where close to 160 rent-to-own dealers from ...

DSI holds first annual Vendor Summit
[September 29, 2009] DSI Systems held its first annual Vendor Summit at its corporate headquarters last week in Des Moines, Iowa. Inviting account executives and senior management from all of the DSI Systems vendors, over 100 representatives came together for this important meeting. “The independent retailer channel is the only sure bet for manufacturers,” declared Dave Robison, CEO of DSI ...

ColorTyme celebrates new multi-unit course graduates
[September 29, 2009] ColorTyme, and its ColorTyme University program, celebrated with the first 10 graduates of its all-new multi-unit management training course, held Sept. 21-23. “As more and more ColorTyme franchisees become multi-unit owners, this multi-unit management course is crucial for our system,” said Albert Kohut, vice president of operations for ColorTyme and co-creator of the course. “I worked ...

Sixth annual Midwest Expo begins tomorrow
[September 28, 2009] Expo 2008 show floor. The sixth annual Midwest RTO Training Expo -- the brainchild of the Ohio Rental Dealers Association (ORDA) -- kicks off tomorrow at the Concourse Hotel and Conference Center in Columbus, Ohio where close to 160 rent-to-own dealers from as many as nine states are expected to participate in what has become the largest regional rent-to-own ...

Bestway honors high performers at awards banquet
[September 24, 2009] Bestway 2009 Award Winners. Front middle: C.D. Bell -- Bestway Profit King. Bestway Rent-To-Own today closed out its 2009 annual managers meeting in Destin, Florida, with an awards brunch celebrating 43 managers of the company's highest performing stores. The company is wrapping up the most profitable year in its history and several of the managers took home multiple ...

FRDA names first-ever 'Employee of the Year'
[September 23, 2009] Mike Van Heusen (l) accepts FRDA's first ever 'Employee of Year' award from Jan Arnett. Mike Van Heusen of Z-Best Rentals is the Florida Rental Dealers Association's first ever 'Employee of the Year.' Heusen accepted the award Tuesday from Jan Arnett at the conclusion of FRDA's annual business meeting attended by over 100 dealers representing around 15 rent-to-own ...

NEW PODCAST: David Kraemer president, CEO Bestway Rent-To-Own
[September 23, 2009] Listen to podcast with Bestway president and CEO David Kraemer. Kraemer is a 26-year RTO veteran who served as past executive vice president with Rent-A-Center and joined Bestway in 2002. The company is currently the largest independent rent-to-own company in the country with 77 stores in seven states. Kraemer is a firm believer in the philosophy of "happy ...

NEW PODCAST: Beth Durrett, CFO Bestway Rent-To-Own
[September 23, 2009] Listen to podcast with Bestway Rent-To-Own CFO Beth Durrett. Beth Durrett is the chief financial officer for Bestway Rent-To-Own. In her 30 years with the company -- dating back to its pre-RTO well-servicing days -- Durrett has lived the Bestway philosophy of putting employees first. New hires at Bestway are likely to hear from her with "welcome aboard" ...

UPDATED: Chair Frank Joins Push for Financial Regulatory Reform
[September 23, 2009] Today, House Financial Services Chair Barney Frank reiterated the House commitment to pass a financial regulatory overhaul by the year's end. U.S. Senate Banking Chair Chris Dodd yesterday set forth his proposal to merge the Federal Reserve, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Office of Thrift Supervision into a ...

Rent One hosts Bowl-A-Thon for Jefferson County troop fund
[September 23, 2009] Rent One bowling team at the recent JCOIF Bowl-A-Thon. Rent One recently hosted a Bowl-A-Thon for Jefferson County Operation Iraqi Freedom (JCOIF) -- a fundraiser for Jefferson Country troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Rent One kicked off this year's fundraiser with the first donation. The Bowl-A-Thon raised over $5000 towards JCOIF's goal this year. In addition, organizers held ...

Congress keeps super financial regulatory agency on table
[September 23, 2009] U.S. Senate Banking Chair Chris Dodd yesterday set forth his proposal to merge the Federal Reserve, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Office of Thrift Supervision into a single entity as confirmed by committee staff. The new agency would have broad authority to regulate banking and consumer transactions. The ...

Rent-A-Center donates to Texas Community Storehouse
[September 23, 2009] With help from the Rent-A-Center Random Act of Caring initiative, the Community Storehouse will be able to better serve local children and their families with new furnishings and electronics for their facilities in Keller and Roanoke. Rent-A-Center is donating: Four computers Sofa Loveseat Area rugs 32” LCD HDTV Full-size refrigerator The Community Storehouse offers assistance to children within the ...

ColorTyme, RimTyme honored with 14 RAE Awards
[September 22, 2009] As part of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) 2009 Convention and Buying Show in Las Vegas, which took place earlier this month, ColorTyme’s two brands, ColorTyme and RimTyme, were honored with 14 Rental Advertising Excellence (RAE) Awards. APRO’s RAE program recognizes some of the best marketing and advertising work in the rent-to-own industry throughout the ...

Bestway District 3 is Knowledge Bowl Champ
[September 22, 2009] Bestway District 3 took home the $5,000 'Knowledge Bowl' prize Tuesday night. Bestway Rent-To-Own's third annual Knowledge Bowl contest rounded out a packed day of leadership and product training Tuesday night at the largest independent RTO company's annual managers meeting in Destin, Florida. District 3 -- "The Eight Profiteers" -- which covers eight stores in Mississippi, won ...

Bestway turns on the 'Afterburner'
[September 22, 2009] L to R: Jamie Cryer, Alexis Graham (Ace) and Bill Masters review mission plans Tuesday. Bestway managers found a new appreciation for the words planning, leadership and execution Tuesday. That's when three U.S. Air Force fighter pilots stormed the company's annual managers meeting in Destin, Florida and broke the 100 or so attendees into six teams each given ...

Rent-A-Center to dedicate new "RAC" rooms to Boys and Girls Clubs
[September 22, 2009] Rent-A-Center is outfitting two new "RAC" rooms for Boys and Girls Club teens in Florida and Washington this week. Tomorrow the company will dedicate a new room at the Laurence F. Lee Boys & Girls Club in Jacksonville, Florida where area teens will finally have a positive place to hang out and call their own. The new “...

Aaron's expects positive same store revenue growth in Q3
[September 22, 2009] Aaron's, Inc. today announced expectations for third quarter 2009 same store revenue growth. Same store revenues (revenues earned in Company-operated stores open for the entirety of both periods) are expected to increase in the mid-single digit percentage range during the quarter ending September 30, 2009 compared to the same quarter of 2008. The Company will announce its third quarter ...

Bestway managers hit the beach for annual meeting
[September 21, 2009] Steve Kruse (operations analyst), Marvin Macklin (store manager Birmingham, AL), and CEO David Kraemer at the Bestway welcome event Monday. The nation's largest independent rent-to-own company -- Bestway Rent-To-Own -- kicked off it's 2009 annual meeting Monday at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Resort in Destin, Florida where close to 100 store, district and regional managers from the company's 76 ...

FRDA annual meeting kicks off with golf tournament, casino night
[September 21, 2009] Sharon Tomaszewski, FRDA executive director and proud father Terry Beville FRDA treasurer at the association's second annual poker tournament. Over 60 rent-to-own professionals turned out Monday, for the seventh annual Norman "Slats" Slatton Golf Memorial -- the kickoff event for the Florida Rental Dealers Association's annual meeting at the Westin Hotel/Harbor Island in Tampa, Florida. Around 120 dealers ...

Matthews is new Benefit Marketing Solutions president
[September 16, 2009] Susan Matthews Benefit Marketing Solutions (BMS) today announced the promotion of Susan Matthews to President. BMS is a subsidiary of Alliance HealthCard, a leading membership and insurance marketing company. Matthews served as executive vice president of sales and marketing for BMS for many years. She was named 2008 Vendor of the Year by the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations ...

DAC Products declares APRO Show huge success
[September 16, 2009] DAC Products, maker of electronics merchandising displays exhibited at the recent APRO Show in Las Vegas and announced that they were very pleased with the results. “We were hopeful that we could meet or exceed last year’s sales, which were good," said Todd Woods, vice president of sales and marketing. "But we were just blown ...

Pasco, Wash. welcomes ColorTyme back into community
[September 16, 2009] Front L - R: Adan Saenz, Alma Cruz, Armondo Tovar. Standing L - R: Erick Davis and Albert Vasquez. Today, Pasco residents welcomed ColorTyme back to the community. After weeks of preparation, Franchise Owner Mark Childers and his Vice President of Operations, Albert Vasquez, worked together to open a new store at the address of 2403 West Court St. ...

O'Rourke kicks off this year's APRO TEAM Fund
[September 15, 2009] Successful grassroots political efforts take motivation, elbow grease and money. Sending rent-to-own advocates to Washington several times per year on behalf of the rent-to-own industry's federal legislative effort is a costly affair. But the gains of maintaining those Capital Hill connections and a robust federal effort are too important. That's why O'Rourke Sales Company kicked off the 2009-2010 APRO ...

August retail sales jump 2.7 percent
[September 15, 2009] The U.S. Census Bureau today announced that advance estimates of U.S. retail and food services sales for August, adjusted for seasonal variation and holiday and trading-day differences, but not for price changes, increased 2.7 percent over July. Though greater than last month, the $351.4 billion August sales estimate is still 5.3 percent below August ...

NEW VIDEO: Watch, listen to winning RAE ads
[September 14, 2009] APRO's 2009 Rental Advertising Excellence Awards included 70 winners in over 15 categories culled from thousands of entries that represent the best advertising in the rent-to-own industry. The contest was divided into two broad categories -- in-house and agency produced -- and broken into contests representing the best rent-to-own advertising in the categories of Print Materials, Direct Marketing, Newspaper, ...

APRO Virtual Tradeshow is live
[September 14, 2009] The APRO 2009 Convention and Buying Show is long gone. But keeping in touch with the 84 vendors who attended the Las Vegas show is now easier than ever with APRO's Virtual Tradeshow link. Dealers will find specific details on all vendors who attended the show including product descriptions and contact information. The virtual trade show provides year round ...

Iowa Dealers head off threats through organization, leadership
[September 14, 2009] L to R: Ed Winn III, state sen. Matt McCoy, Jim Carney and Brian Luksetich at recent AIRD meeting. Almost two years after turning back a rent to own price control bill, Association of Iowa Rental Dealers (AIRD) President Brian Luksetich is confident the state's relatively quiet RTO business climate is well earned. "We're not sitting back and ...

APRO Show tops $18 million
[September 11, 2009] Bolstered by a large showing of rent-to-own companies across the country, the APRO Convention and Buying Show in Las Vegas tallied over $18 million in purchase orders during the two day show. 132 Rent-to-own companies representing over 5,300 stores shopped 84 exhibitors across 137 booths during the two day buying show at Paris Casino. Hundreds of rent-to-own dealers ...

LG Electronics Partners in weekend recycling project
[September 11, 2009] LG Electronics USA and 9NEWS, in cooperation with Waste Management, have teamed up to host a FREE recycling event for area residents on Saturday, Sept. 12. Consumers can drop off up to 10 electronic items for free recycling from 7 a.m. to 12 noon (or until capacity is reached) at two area locations: Denver: Invesco Field at Mile ...

UPDATE: Rent-A-Center Prevails, download opinion here
[September 10, 2009] The Massachusetts Supreme Court today ruled in favor of Rent-A-Center in a multi-million dollar class action lawsuit -- Silva et al v. Rent-A-Center -- that put the state's 23-year old rent-to-own statute to the test. Download opinion here. The question at hand was whether rent-to-own contracts fell under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Retail Installment Sales Act or the ...

Healthcare reform and the RTO impact
[September 9, 2009] The U.S. Congress is back in session with health care legislation dominating the attention of lawmakers and the public. The current proposed health care legislation mandates small businesses with payrolls of more than $250,000 must provide health insurance to their workers or pay a fine. The health care debate will dominate Congress for the next month beginning ...

RTO's capitalize on $154 billion tax credit expansion
[September 9, 2009] Liquid Tax, an aggregate tax preparer announced today that new tax breaks will drive fresh customers to it’s dealer channel. As federal stimulus dollars begin to flow, one unlikely beneficiary is the $30 billion tax-preparation industry. “It’s because of this stimulus coupled with a weak economy and high unemployment rate that Liquid Tax has seen its ...

TARA registration deadline Friday
[September 9, 2009] Friday is the last day to reserve discounted rates on hotel rooms for TARA's 26th Annual Convention and the last day to preregister for the convention at the lowest registration fee possible. The reduced hotel convention rate is educed convention rate is $136. Additionally, those TARA members who register before September 11 can take advantage of the lowest registration ...

Colorado dealers meet Sept. 12
[September 8, 2009] The Colorado Rental Dealers Association will hold it's annual meeting Sept. 12 at 6 p.m. at Maggiano's Little Italy in Denver....

NEW PODCAST: APRO President "Tiger" Cleek re-elected
[September 2, 2009] Listen to "Tiger" John Cleek podcast here. "Tiger" John Cleek of Cleeks/Aaron's will serve another year as president of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) after his re-election Wednesday morning at the rent-to-own trade association's biannual board meeting in Las Vegas. The election took place during the board's first full meeting at the 2009 APRO Convention ...

French elected vice chairman of vendor committee
[September 2, 2009] Listen to Bill French podcast. Bill French of O'Rourke Sales is the new vice chairman of APRO's 12-member Vendor Advisory Committee (VAC), replacing past president Ellison Crider of RSSS who has served in the position for the last four years. Michael Gerwe of RES Accessories, was re-elected as the committee’s co-vice chairman. French, vice president of national accounts ...

McDougal is APRO Lifetime Achievement Award winner
[September 2, 2009] APRO 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Gary McDougal. The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) Tuesday night, bestowed its highest honor on former rental dealer turned lifelong industry advocate Gary McDougal, naming him APRO's 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner. APRO President "Tiger" John Cleek presented Gary and Mary McDougal with the award, capping off a night of honors ...

Edwards is Rental Dealer of the Year, Blair is Vendor of the Year
[September 2, 2009] APRO's 2009 Rental Dealer of the Year Dave Edwards (l) with APRO President "Tiger" John Cleek. The Association of Progressive Rental Organization's annual awards banquet Tuesday, honored rental dealers, vendors and state associations that have gone above and beyond the call of duty for the rent-to-own industry and exude dedication to causes greater than themselves or their personal ...

NEW PODCAST: APRO Boardmember Cynthia Baber-Strunk, Baber's
[September 2, 2009] Listen to podcast with Cynthia Baber-Strunk here. Cynthia Baber-Strunk knows how to convert a bad circumstance into something better. It’s how she got into the rent-to-own business in the first place—and it is why she’s inspired to run for a position on the APRO board of directors now. Having taught high school biology for nine years, ...

NEW PODCAST: Aaron's Todd Evans talks about APRO's convention
[September 1, 2009] Listen to Todd Evans podcast. Vice President of Aaron's franchising, Todd Evans, talks about the state of Aaron's franchising during APRO's annual convention. Listen to Todd Evans podcast....

NEW PODCAST: Vontoo has a message for rent-to-own
[September 1, 2009] Listen to Vontoo podcast. Vontoo messaging company provides rent-to-own companies voice technologies for increased promotions and labor saving collections. Listen to Vontoo podcast here....

NEW PODCAST: BestWay's Steve Kruse
[September 1, 2009] Listen to Steve Kruse podcast. BestWay's Steve Kruse, who received the award for most Congressional meeting during APRO's 2009 Legislative Conference, talks to APRO about the most effective tips to generating support for rent-to-own in Congress. Listen to Steve Kruse podcast....

APRO Golf winners announced
[September 1, 2009] Dave Edwards, Robert Barnes, Charles Smithgall and Mark Fore. APRO's 2009 golf tournament at the Angel Park Golf Course in Las Vegas kicked of the 2009 Convention and Buying Show with close to 60 rent-to-own dealers and exhibitors participating. Winners are as follows: First Place: Dave Edwards Robert Barnes Mark Fore Charles Smithgall Longest Drive: Jamie Moore Jerry Pinkley ...

Vendor Advisory Committee elected
[September 1, 2009] APRO Associate members today elected two new members to the association's vendor advisory commitee (VAC) and re-elected five at a special exhibitor lunch at the APRO 2009 Convention and Buying Show in Las Vegas. Newly elected VAC members are Larry Furiani (Coaster) and Mike Neighbors (SED). Re-elected VAC members are Al Benson (Central File), John Blair (PTS), Ellison Crider ...

NEW PODCAST: APRO Boardmember Dennis Adams, American Rental
[September 1, 2009] Play Dennis Adams podcast. If ever a company name described one of its employees, Full-O-Pep defines Dennis Adams. Bloomington, Indiana-based Full-O-Pep/American Rentals operates 50 stores and three RNR Custom Wheels and Performance Tires locations across four states and Adams has helped open many of those locations. Currently, as district manager, he oversees 10 key central Indiana stores. “I’...

Four new faces join APRO board
[September 1, 2009] Members of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) Monday, elected eight candidates to the association's board of directors Monday including four new members with extensive industry experience. The election took place during the general session of APRO's 2009 Convention and Buying Show in Las Vegas. Newly elected members include: Dennis Adams Full-O-Pep Appliances, Inc. Bloomington, Indiana 812/961-4224 dennis@americanrentals....

Rent-to-own News Archives from August 2009
Romine announces bid for Missouri Senate
[August 31, 2009] Gary Romine announcing bid for Republican nomination for Missouri State Senator in 2012. Gary Romine, past APRO president and owner of Show Me Rent To Own, today announced his candidacy for Missouri Senate at the president's reception banquet closing the first full day of APRO's 2009 Convention and Buying Show in Las Vegas. Romine said he will run as ...

APRO's Rent-to-Own Roundtable features protection and profit
[August 31, 2009] America's Research Group CEO Brit Beemer. APRO's popular rent-to-own roundtable discussion Monday featured the most prominent professionals in the industry during the association's annual convention in Las Vegas, featuring a presentation and open discussion on the most recent updates regarding federal legislation, customer satisfaction and legal issues. APRO's roundtable discussion began with industry lobbyist, John Raffaelli, who updated the ...

APRO General Session kicks off convention
[August 31, 2009] Rent One's Larry Carrico (l) and APRO President "Tiger" John Cleek (r) present the RTO Employee of the Year Award to David Keen. Close to 200 rent-to-own dealers from across the country packed the Bally's Event Center in Las Vegas for the general session of the annual APRO Convention and Buying Show where they reflected on the year's ...

NEW VIDEO: Robin Walker is APRO 2009 Scholarship Winner
[August 31, 2009] Play video here. Robin Walker, a University of Mississippi sophomore, is APRO's 2009 Education Scholarship winner and was formally honored today during the association's 2009 General Session at the association's annual convention and buying show in Las Vegas. Daughter of Gary “Bo” Walker, director of operations for RTO Rentals of Paris, Tennessee, Walker was selected from a competitive ...

NEW VIDEO: Wilders are RTO Customers of the Year
[August 31, 2009] Play video here. Sherron and Robert Wilder, Rent-A-Center Customers since 1992, are in the business of helping others. The couple's charity work in Benton Harbor, Michigan was formally honored today during APRO's 2009 General Session at the association's annual convention and buying show in Las Vegas. From their Safe Haven programs for children, to their current outreach mission for ...

NEW VIDEO: Dave Keen is RTO Employee of the Year
[August 31, 2009] Play video here. David Keen, employee development manager for Rent One, is APRO's 2009 Employee of the Year and was formally honored today during APRO's 2009 General Session at the association's annual convention and buying show in Las Vegas. Keen served four terms on the Mt. Vernon City Council -- home base for Rent One's 42 stores -- and ...

APRO golfers tee off in Vegas
[August 31, 2009] Dave Edwards, Robert Barnes, Charles Smithgall and Mark Fore took first in APRO's annual golf tournament. Some 60 golfers from across the rent-to-own spectrum -- dealers, vendors, employees and family members -- officially kicked off The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations' (APRO) 2009 Convention and Buying Show Sunday in Las Vegas with the annual Tom Kitchens/Joe Eason Golf Tournament ...

BlackBox GPS names new CEO
[August 30, 2009] Boca Raton, FL -August 30th, 2009: BlackBox GPS, the leading provider of Fleet Routing and Monitoring Solutions for the RTO Industry, announced thetransition of Co-Founder and CFO, Robin Standlee, CPA, to serve as the company's new CEO. Standleebrings her uniquemanagement backgroundinthe capacity as CFO andconsultant successfully navigatingstartups and established companiesthrough spinoffs and mergers,including aGPS manufactureranda leading provider of ...

New easyhome to open in Wichita, Kansas
[August 28, 2009] Bud Gates, Chairman and CEO of easygates, today announced the opening of a new easyhome rent-to-own store in the Providence Square Shopping Center in Wichita, Kansas on August 29, 2009. "This will be the 23rd easyhome store in the United States and the concept has proven to be very successful," Gates said. "We are especially excited ...

Whirlpool closes Evansville, Indiana plant
[August 28, 2009] Whirlpool Corporation today announced changes to its North American manufacturing operations resulting in the closure of its manufacturing facility in Evansville, Indiana. The closure will eliminate approximately 1,100 full time positions in mid-2010. Production of top freezer refrigerators made at Evansville will be transferred to one of the company's existing manufacturing facilities in Mexico. Production of icemakers produced ...

DAC touts new products at APRO show
[August 27, 2009] DAC Products, maker of electronics merchandising displays will be exhibiting again at this year’s APRO show in Las Vegas in booth #812. “We are focused on the RTO industry and their needs so we are introducing several new designs intended specifically for them," said Todd Woods, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for DAC. "We ...

Lewallen featured in 'Day on the Hill' mini-doc
[August 27, 2009] Watch video here. Rent-to-own dealer and industry ambassador Ernie Lewallen is the subject of a new mini-documentary produced by Moneris Solutions that follows Lewallen's experiences during APRO's 2009 Legislative Conference this April. For over 15 years, rent-to-own dealers have been coming to Washington DC for the Dave Egan Legislative Conference. Lewallen, owner of Ohio-based UHR Rents, leads Moneris Producer ...

Rent-A-Center furnishes new 'RAC Room' in St. Louis
[August 27, 2009] Representatives of Herbert Hoover Boys & Girls Club, Rent-A-Center, area teens and their parents will formally dedicate a new "RAC Room" today that was fully outfitted with merchandise from Rent-A-Center. The dedication will take place at 5 p.m. at the Herbert Hoover Boys & Girls Club, Adams Park Unit, St. Louis, Missouri. Teens at this Boys & ...

ColorTyme University graduates celebrated
[August 26, 2009] (l to r): Ted Schlaack, Mike Tagle, Carol Thomas, Justin Nusser, Justin Vaughn; back row: Christopher Cook, Gerardo Cuevas, Ryan Alford, Greg Green, Bill Carlton and Mark Shealy ColorTyme and its ColorTyme University for Store Managers program celebrated its 33rd graduating class of nine students. The graduating class includes: Bill Carlton, Ada, Okla.; Christopher Cook, Mathews, La.; Gerardo Cuevas, ...

RAE Community Relations winners make difference where it counts
[August 26, 2009] Community relations is a category of particular significance in APRO's annual Rental Advertising Excellence contest. While more traditional forms of advertising, particularly television, powerfully influence the public image of rent-to-own, a company's active engagement with the concerns of the community in which it does business conveys an equally moving message. "It shows that you are part of the ...

DSI Systems launches online ordering
[August 26, 2009] DSI Systems, the largest national distributor of televisions, satellite equipment, and accessories, today launched a new online ordering system that will allow retailers to place orders directly through the DSI Systems online product catalog. Access to online ordering is available to all current DSI Systems customers and includes the following features: • Dealer specific pricing • User-friendly search engine ...

Rent One funds innovative school fitness program
[August 25, 2009] Rent One is spearheading an innovative program to help students improve their academic performance and overall health by tuning up their physical fitness. This year some 1,200 K-8 student in Mt. Vernon District 80 will participate in Fitnessgram -- a program that promotes the awareness and importance of physical activity and its relationship to health and academics -- ...

TARA registration deadline Sept. 11
[August 25, 2009] September 11 is the last day to reserve discounted rates on hotel rooms for TARA's 26th Annual Convention and the last day to preregister for the convention at the lowest registration fee possible. The reduced hotel convention rate is educed convention rate is $136. Additionally, those TARA members who register before September 11 can take advantage of the lowest ...

RTO Pro introduces 'Web@Pay'
[August 25, 2009] RTO Pro, a leading provider of rental-purchase software with over 800 user locations, announces the release of WEB@PAY- RTO Pro’s new online payment functionality allowing customers to make rental payments through the rental dealer’s website. "WEB@PAY is another example of how RTO Pro is able to use advanced Windows technology to meet the increasing operational needs ...

Consumer confidence rises in August
[August 25, 2009] Consumer confidence in the overall economy improved in August, as consumer confidence in technology and consumer electronics (CE) jumped in the same period, according to the latest figures from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and CNET. The CEA-CNET Index of Consumer Expectations (ICE) reached 172.2 in August, a jump of more than six points from July's yearly low. ...

New stimulus effort: 'Cash for Appliances'
[August 25, 2009] A new federal program beginning in late fall will set aside $300 million for consumers to upgrade their old appliances for new energy efficient models under a new "cash-for- clunkers" type program designed to improve household energy efficiency and boost floundering appliance sales to boot. As part of the economic stimulus plan, consumers can look forward to a ...

2009 RAE Award winners announced
[August 24, 2009] Some 70 winners in over 15 categories were announced today by the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) in the country's longest running rent-to-own advertising contest APRO's 2009 Rental Advertising Excellence Award winners were culled from thousands of entries and represent the best advertising in the rent-to-own business. The contest was divided into two broad categories -- in-house and ...

Rent-A-Center furnishes new Harlem teen center
[August 24, 2009] Representatives from the Children’s Aid Society and Rent-A-Center christen a new Teen center in Harlem. Teens at The Children’s Aid Society Dunlevy Milbank Boys & Girls Club will finally have a positive place to hang out and call their own, thanks to a partnership between Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) and Rent-A-Center, Inc. Teenagers are ...

KLQ Auction raises $21 K for scholarships
[August 21, 2009] Angie Quinn (Quality Rentals) and Bill French (O'Rourke Sales) at the KLQ Golf Tournament and Auction Thursday. In what KLQ Education Foundation co-founder Kevin Quinn of Quality Rentals is calling the biggest turnout ever, rent-to-own pro's from around the country turned out for the fifth annual golf tournament and auction that funds the foundation and awards four year scholarships ...

Rent-A-Center selects CyrusOne as exclusive data center provider
[August 20, 2009] CyrusOne, Texas’ leading data center facility provider announced that Rent-A-Center, the largest rent-to-own operator in the United States, has selected CyrusOne as its exclusive data center provider. CyrusOne will provide high availability colocation services to Rent-A-Center from one of its three Dallas-area facilities. Operating more than 3,000 stores in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada, Rent-A-Center required ...

KLQ Foundation fundraiser tees off in Washington
[August 20, 2009] KLQ Golfers attend a special "thank you" dinner at Kevin and Angie Quinn's home Wednesday. Over 150 golfers from across the country turned out today for the 5th annual Dan Quinn and James Webber Memorial Golf Tournament in Lacey, Washington -- the key fundraiser for a highly successful state scholarship program. Rent-to-own dealers, vendors, friends and family trekked ...

APRO Computer-Electronics Focus: ArchBrook Laguna
[August 19, 2009] ArchBrook Laguna continues to deliver proven name brand offerings to the rent to own industry with computer and electronic products shipped together in one shipment. ArchBrook Laguna’s alliance with Expert Warehouse and Brand Source has bolstered an unrivaled consumer electronics line card that features such manufacturers as Toshiba, Sharp, Mitsubishi, LG, Samsung, Panasonic, Hitachi and JVC. We carry ...

Imagery Marketing hosts RTO Roundtable
[August 19, 2009] At Imagery Marketing Group’s annual roundtable for rent-to-own industry clients earlier this month, conversation led to the topic of improving business in light of recent economic trends. Imagery took the opportunity to present cost effective marketing opportunities, inspiring clients to consider implementing some non-traditional approaches to effectively boost their marketing efforts. A full-service agency, Imagery Marketing Group provides ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Aaron's
[August 18, 2009] Leading RTO Independents Are Converting To Aaron’s. “It’s happening all across North America, independent RTO operators are converting their stores to Aaron’s,” says Greg Tanner, national director franchise development for Aaron’s. “And, leaders in the industry are leading the way. We’ve had a conversion program for more than 17 years, but ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: BlackBox GPS
[August 18, 2009] With over 2,000 RTO vehicles and counting, BlackBox GPS, the leading Rent-to-Own GPS solution provider, will showcase their highly anticipated GPS Routing Software, RoutePlanner at the APRO convention August 31 through September 2, in Las Vegas. Since 2003, BlackBox GPS has been developing GPS Fleet Solution's with a core focus in delivery and service vehicle management. To answer ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: BriteLite Enterprises
[August 18, 2009] BriteLite Enterprises is a leading vendor for DJ and audio rack systems for the RTO industry. nearly 14 years in the business, BriteLite sells to many retailers in the U.S. and Mexico and will be targeting the Canadian market in this second half of 2009. At the APRO Show, BriteLite will present 4-5 DJ packs that will convey ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Benefit Marketing Solutions
[August 18, 2009] Don’t lose your customers because they are losing their jobs. Economic times are difficult. The jobless rate is at an all time high. Customers are being laid-off. Companies are downsizing or closing, Jobs are being terminated. This affects your business because when this happens to a customer they typically cannot keep their merchandise. Help your customers and yourself ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Central File Marketing
[August 18, 2009] At a time when most marketers are singing the blues, Central File Marketing’s customers are seeing lots of green. The company is posting record sales and is one of a handful of Milwaukee-area employers that is hiring, according to Dan Chaudoir, founder and CEO of the firm. He attributes this partly to the inherent counter-recessionary nature of the ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Classic Models Jewelry
[August 18, 2009] Classic Models Jewelry Manufacturing is a major diamond importer and prime jewelry manufacturer established in 1986 and located in Atlanta, GA. To meet the demands of a growing market that includes RTO, retail jewelry locations, catalog, gift, and award/recognition jewelry CMJ has opened an additional sales office in Chattanooga, TN. With a sales and training team that has accumulated ...

Hughes, Squires open new ColorTyme in Clarkson, Wash.
[August 18, 2009] To the cheers of many Clarkson, Wash. residents, the much anticipated ColorTyme store at 205 Diagonal Street (on the corner of Diagonal and Second Street) has officially opened its doors for business. “Everybody is so glad we’re back in Clarkston,” said Colleen Squires, one of the franchise owner partners at the new ColorTyme store. “I ...

Coble, Hogan open new ColorTyme in Smyrna, Tennessee
[August 17, 2009] Carl Coble and Scott Hogan are thrilled to be in Smyrna, Tenn. Their new ColorTyme store at 291 Sam Ridley Parkway East (Suite 245) is now open for business. “We’re different than our competition because we have an owner/operator, Carl, who is loved by his customers,” said Hogan, now a multi-unit ColorTyme franchise owner with the ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: DAC
[August 14, 2009] DAC Products, maker of displays for merchandising electronics along with other retail fixtures, is set to show two new, innovative products at the upcoming APRO show in Las Vegas. Both items are expansions of existing categories, which can be coordinated to give tremendous flexibility when outfitting a store. Chris Hodges, Business Development Manager for DAC stated “We are ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Dimplex
[August 14, 2009] The industry’s most realistic flame effect, superior quality, unparalleled service and support, plus a one-year warranty make Dimplex the world leader. Nothing says “home” quite like a warm hearth. According to the National Association of Home Builders, a fireplace is one of the top three most-desired features for new homebuyers. But for many customers, a traditional fireplace ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: dPi Teleconnect
[August 14, 2009] Want to increase your store traffic with qualified rent-to-own customers? Here’s how. Offer the pay-as-you-go services they are looking for: dPi home phone, energy, long distance, Internet, cellular-recharge and bill pay. dPi’s traffic-building products are tailored-made to fit your RTO customer. Just think of all the great cross selling opportunities you’ll have. It’s everything an ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: DreamSeat
[August 14, 2009] Want to take the seasonality out of sports furniture and have less headache figuring out which sport or team to inventory? Want to turn more and make higher profits on your investment? Wouldn’t you want one chair to become any team you wanted? DreamSeat has the solution. DreamSeat’s new XZipit furniture line is designed with a patented ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Florida State Games
[August 14, 2009] Do your salespeople know the differences between HD Blu-Ray DVDs and HD DVDs? How about the bells and whistles offered by the latest video game systems? Denis Rosen, national sales manager for Florida State Games, spouts facts and figures, but he also exudes excitement and passion for the future of a new era of interactive video gaming aimed at ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Imagery Marketing Group
[August 14, 2009] Many know Imagery Marketing Group for its savvy ability to combine its knowledge of rent-to-own with innovative strategies and fresh design. In addition to empowering clients to reach their audiences through TV, radio, web, and print advertising, Imagery is implementing a more targeted marketing approach to increase sales and amplify clients’ return on investment (ROI). “We now have ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Liquid Tax
[August 14, 2009] Liquid Tax, an Aggregate Tax Preparer and leading provider of tax prep solutions today’s retailers need to help increase profits and customer counts with efficiency and automation, announced thesuccess of itsLiquid TaxFlat-ratetax prep service in27 states, including Alaska. Unlike most traditional tax prep services where customers are subject to being charged by the key stroke, or per IRS ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Marcone Supply
[August 13, 2009] Whether installing new appliances or refurbishing used ones, Marcone Supply is your partner for all the supplies you need, right now. They offer moving blankets, Fore-Arm Forklift and hand trucks for making deliveries, plus power cords, hoses and ducting for use in new installations. They also offer specialty products like ShakeAway vibration isolation pads that help reduce noise from ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Moneris
[August 13, 2009] Moneris Solutions has a 40-year history as one of North America's largest processors of all forms of electronic payments, including credit and debit cards, ACH, e-check and gift cards. We can deliver processing capabilities through point-of-sale hardware, payment processing software and e-commerce solutions. We are dedicated to providing cost effective solutions tailored to the needs of RTO businesses. Our ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Peg Perego
[August 13, 2009] Peg Perego has been in business for 60 years. The company was founded in Italy with the creation of a baby carriage, designed by Giuseppe Perego for his son, Lucio. His carriage caught the attention of other parents who asked him to build one for them. Peg Perego was born. Today, Peg Perego remains a family owned company, now ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Teletrack
[August 13, 2009] Teletrack improves credit screening for rental purchase dealers by delivering traditional credit reports including tradelines Teletrack, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of First Advantage Corporation (NASDAQ: FADV), is expanding its ability to deliver predictive data from multiple data sources as a result of its integration with ExperianSM. Teletrack is now able to provide incremental data from rent-to-own companies that ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: TRIB Group
[August 13, 2009] TRIB Group is the oldest and most respected buying group specifically designed for the rental industry. Established in 1983 by a group of independent rental dealers, it has grown over the last 26 years to a nationally recognized RTO organization dedicated to helping independent dealers improve their bottom line. We combine the purchasing power of our member companies nationwide, ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: TV Armor
[August 13, 2009] Since 2007, TV Armor has manufactured and retailed TV Screen Protectors for todays fragile LCD, LED, and Plasma TVs. TV Armor screen protectors are made from the highest quality optical grade plastic available, yet they can stand up to the worst abuse a consumer can dish out, while maintaining the High Definition picture they love. The idea to create ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Twin Star
[August 13, 2009] Twin-Star International, manufacturer of ClassicFlame Electric Fireplaces and Tresanti Media Cabinets is introducing a new line of unique and cool home furnishing: Tresanti Refrigerated Wine Cabinets. Filling a void in the marketplace, Tresanti Wine Cabinets have been well received by retailers. Each cabinet is constructed using the finest quality wood veneers and hardwood solids, and stunning multi-step hand rubbed ...

APRO Special Products/Services Focus: Walter L. Clark and Associates
[August 13, 2009] Insurance consultant Jeanette Beardsley. In today’s economy it is of utmost importance to keep costs down. One of the areas to look at is of course insurance. Walter L. Clark and Associates prides itself in finding the best price for the coverage a store needs rather than just cutting coverage. We take this very seriously as part of ...

APRO Software Focus: High Touch
[August 12, 2009] Answering the needs of its clients, High Touch, a 25-year-old technology solutions provider, will showcase two highly requested products that complement their PRO/Store point-of-service software at APRO Aug. 31 thru Sept. 2 in Las Vegas. Auto Dial voice marketing and GPS Asset Tracking and Fleet Management are both designed to maximize staff efficiencies and minimize labor costs, says Jason ...

APRO Software Focus: Ideal Software Systems
[August 12, 2009] Ideal Software Systems will be featuring a new Microsoft Windows-based rent-to-own point of sale product at the APRO convention in Las Vegas. Ideal has, for 25 years, offered the premier business enterprise management software for rent-to-own and retail businesses. "What do you do when you have the best product in the industry?" At Ideal, they have started from ...

APRO Software Focus: Rental Information Systems
[August 12, 2009] Rental Information Systems, Inc., developer of The RAM System software application, has announced the release of two powerful new products that focus on increased employee productivity and improved RTO customer experiences. These new products deliver an online payment processing solution, company wide inventory and customer search tools, and a powerful automated voice messaging system. “We are continually looking ...

APRO Software Focus: RSSS
[August 12, 2009] For over 25 years, RSSS has been a leading innovator of technological solutions for the rent-to-own industry. To continue that tradition, RSSS is proud to announce some exciting new items for the APRO Convention and Buying Show in Las Vegas August 30 - Sept. 2. Online Web payments continues to benefit those who have implemented it. Side effects have ...

Bankruptcy rate soars as credit crisis deepens
[August 12, 2009] Job losses and pruned credit options are driving an increase in consumer bankruptcies this year, with new filings poised to hit 1.4 million by Dec. 31, according to the American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) and Bloomberg News. The growing number of bankruptcies, many of which are accompanied by job loss, foreclosure, divorce or other life changing events, is leaving ...

Cincy DJ puts Policy Matters Ohio on Hotseat
[August 11, 2009] Cincinnati talk show host, Mike McConnell Tuesday morning, went toe to toe with Ohio Policy Matters representative, David Rothstein, regarding the think tank’s recent public criticisms of rent-to-own. Listen to full radio interview here. During the hour long radio broadcast, "Midday With Mike" on WLW AM, McConnell responded to Policy Matters’ media campaign to “promote their ...

Easyhome released Q2 Results
[August 11, 2009] Canadian Rent-To-Own Company easyhome, today released results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2009. Revenue for the quarter increased 9.3% to $43.5 million compared with $39.8 million in the second quarter of 2008. Same store revenue growth was 1.0% in the quarter. Operating income was $3.4 million, compared with $3.9 million for ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Coaster Fine Furniture
[August 11, 2009] Coaster Fine Furniture recognizes that the smaller footprint of a typical rental store is a perfect fit for their quick-ship inventory program and is rolling out new initiatives that underscore the company’s commitment to rental dealers. As an import distributor of fine home furnishings cross all major residential categories, Coaster offers one of the largest selections of continually-warehoused ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Donco Trading Company
[August 11, 2009] Donco Trading Company will feature it's latest creation at the APRO Convention and Buying Show -- the new premier Staircase Bunkbed. Donco is a furniture importer specializing in juvenile furniture from child to teen; bedroom sets to staircase bunks. The company, founded in 1992, features centralized warehousing, same Day Shipping for APRO members and caters to both small or ...

APRO Furniture Focus: King Koil
[August 11, 2009] In 1898 Samuel Bronstein began the King Koil tradition of bench-built craftsmanship in St. Paul, Minnesota with six employees in a small factory. Since then King Koil has been committed to designing and manufacturing the best sleep products in the industry Throughout the 1900's, King Koil grew domestically and expanded globally to become one of the industry leaders. Currently ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Protect-A-Bed
[August 11, 2009] Protect-A-Bed, a premier provider of mattress and box spring encasements for the consumer and professional market, is showcasing its line of Bed bug and waterproof products to the Rent to Own industry during the Association of Progressive Rental Associations (APRO) 2009 Convention and Buying Show. Protect-A-Bed will attend APRO (Booth # 415) to showcase their mattress and box spring ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Simmons Company
[August 11, 2009] Founded in 1870, The Simmons Company prides itself in innovation. From the invention of the Pocketed Coil, to the Queen and King size mattress, to the Bowling Ball commercial, Simmons boasts products that create tremendous quality as well as value in today’s rental industry. Simmons offers beds that are easy to sell and lease. Customers want beds they ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Serta
[August 11, 2009] Serta Mattress will be offering tremendous savings on its popular mattress collections at the upcoming APRO Show in Las Vegas. The bedding brand leader is offering a show exclusive of $50 off any Queen or King Perfect Sleeper set as well as $50 off any Queen or King size Sertapedic models. Additionally, Serta has submitted two proposals to be ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Soflex
[August 11, 2009] You want it where? You need it when? You want how many? Soflex has redefined “quick ship” and guarantees unbeatable delivery anywhere in the U.S. Receive your order in one to four days, depending on your trading area and location in the United States. Soflex ships all credit approved orders the day that they are received. Their ...

APRO Furniture Focus: Welton USA
[August 11, 2009] Since 1985, Welton USA has provided quality furniture and electronics to the rental industry. Welton designs, assembles and distributes high quality furniture and electronics, providing exceptional products at competitive prices. Our exacting standards and dependable quality have earned the trust of rental dealers throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Welton USA's 552,000 square foot distribution center ...

Rental Rountable Kicks off RTO Education Bonanza
[August 11, 2009] Rental Rountable Kicks off RTO Education Bonanza Moderated by Michael Hoffman 1-3 p.m., August 31 APRO's popular rental roundtable session brings together the top minds in rent-to-own for an open forum on the issues affecting the industry. Moderator and keynote speaker Michael Hoffman will lead interactive discussion of nuts and bolts rent-to-own business issues including: Good Business Practices ...

Chesterfield, Va. resident wins ColorTyme $500 E-mail Sweepstakes
[August 11, 2009] “I was looking for a new refrigerator. So I went to ColorTyme.com and signed-up for the e-mail coupons. About a week later, I received a message saying I had won,” said Melissa Payne, a resident of Chesterfield, Va., and the winning customer of the ColorTyme $500 E-mail Sweepstakes. “What’s great is that I did ...

APRO Computer-Electronics Focus: SED International
[August 10, 2009] SED provides Rent-To-Own Dealers with the best brands, competitive prices and the largest selection of name brand computer and consumer electronics products. A full service provider for the RTO channel, SED combines the experience of a team of dedicated professionals, specialized services, and a large selection of products to make “Distributor of Choice” more than just a slogan. ...

APRO Computer-Electronics Focus: O'Rourke Sales Company
[August 10, 2009] O’Rourke Sales Company, proud to be an APRO sponsor, continues to excel in the rent-to-own industry by offering dealers a complete one-stop-shop solution for their rental customer’s needs. O’Rourke Sales Company stocks cutting edge technologies offered by LG, Mitsubishi, Philips, RCA, JVC, DELL, Kenmore, Speed Queen, Crosley and others. These prestigious vendors offer products that are ...

APRO Computer-Electronics Focus: DSI
[August 10, 2009] After introducing a new website in September of 2008, DSI introduced online ordering for all of the company's dealers. Dealers are now able to go into the website, get their price, check local inventory in real time and place their orders electronically. Although DSI still believes our sales force is the best in the industry and offers significant expertise ...

APRO Computer-Electronics Focus: D&H
[August 10, 2009] D&H Distributing, the major one-stop resource for computer products, consumer electronics and home entertainment solutions, announces that its APRO Trade Show booth #604 will promote this year’s top-selling new computing formats. D&H carries an array of models, from the latest space-saving, all-in-ones like Lenovo’s A600 21.5" consolidated desktop unit; to netbooks from Lenovo, Acer ...

APRO Computer-Electronics Focus: CybertronPC
[August 10, 2009] Cybertron's RTO partners are thrilled with the growing Gaming Systems sales success in their stores. Dealers with that cutting-edge product vision are offering Cybertron's gaming systems not only for the exciting new revenue potential, but due to the "look" of the systems, as a customer attraction highlight in their stores. At the 2009 APRO Convention, CybertronPC will introduce ...

Walker is APRO Scholarship winner
[August 10, 2009] Robin Walker, a University of Mississippi sophomore, was today announced The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations' 2009 Education Scholarship winner. Daughter of Gary “Bo” Walker, director of operations for RTO Rentals of Paris, Tennessee, Walker was selected from a competitive field of over 100 entries which was narrowed to six finalists last week. A journalism major, Robin Walker ...

Rent-A-Center commits to Kerrville community
[August 10, 2009] Customers in Kerrville and surrounding communities now have a new choice available when it comes to renting or buying brand-name furniture, appliances, electronics and computers. Rent-A-Center is celebrating the opening of its newest store Aug. 11 at 423 Main Street featuring approximately 5,330 square feet of high-quality merchandise. Customers will find Rent-A-Center’s local staff ready to help ...

APRO Appliance Focus: Whirlpool
[August 10, 2009] Whirlpool will have its booth on the APRO show floor instead of being part of the Whirlpool booth on the retail side. We will be showing the complete Rental Line-up with products from Whirlpool, Estate, Amana and Maytag. We will be showing a wide range of laundry products - from the Whirlpool compact laundry, to the regular Topload Estate, ...

APRO Appliance Focus: GE
[August 10, 2009] GE's development and manufacture of Smart Grid-enabled appliances will shave energy peaks for utility companies and save consumers money. "I've been in the appliance business for nearly 30 years," said GE President and CEO Jim Campbell. "I've seen many innovations and changes in the industry. Some have been nothing short of revolutionary," "I think ...

APRO Appliance Focus: Crosley Corporation
[August 10, 2009] Crosley’s business model focuses not only on bringing quality products in at competitive prices, but also on the service aspect of the business. Crosley backs up its products with one of the most inclusive warranties in the industry and a highly trained network of appliance distributors. These same distributors work diligently to make sure our dealers receive frequent ...

APRO 2009 Scholarship finalists continued
[August 5, 2009] The Association of Progressive Rental Organization's 2009 Scholarship Award Competition narrowed this week to six finalists who come from a variety of RTO backgrounds and companies throughout the United States. The scholarship competition -- which provides a $2,000 award to the winner -- is open to RTO employees or the sons or daughters of RTO employees from APRO ...

APRO 2009 Scholarship finalists selected
[August 5, 2009] The Association of Progressive Rental Organization's 2009 Scholarship Award Competition narrowed this week to six finalists who come from a variety of RTO backgrounds and companies throughout the United States. The scholarship competition -- which provides a $2,000 award to the winner -- is open to RTO employees or the sons or daughters of RTO employees from APRO ...

TRIB's Meeting of the Minds: Oct. 7-8
[August 5, 2009] TRIB Group is pleased to announce the schedule of events the group's annual members-only Meeting of the Minds. The event will be held on October 7-8, 2009 at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The event is free of charge for TRIB Group members and special invited guests. Meeting of the Minds is an informational ...

Aaron's directors declare dividend
[August 5, 2009] The Aaron's, Inc. Board of Directors today declared a quarterly cash dividend. The dividend declared is $.017 per share on Common Stock and $.017 per share on Class A Common Stock, payable October 1, 2009 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on September 1, 2009. Aaron’s, Inc., based in Atlanta, currently has ...

New RTOHQ: The Magazine focuses on "The Board"
[August 5, 2009] The latest edition of RTOHQ: The Magazine hits the post office this week and focuses on APRO's 2009 Board elections and the candidates who hope to guide the rent-to-own industry over the next two years. In his introduction, APRO Executive Director Bill Keese takes a look at the four board members who are retiring from the board this election ...

Waterbury ColorTyme supports Youth Service System with donation
[August 3, 2009] To Steve Dwyer, supporting the Waterbury, Conn., community - where his ColorTyme store is based - means everything to him and his team. Recently, he and his staff donated a Whirlpool stove to the Waterbury Youth Service System - a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the overall well being of children, youth and families. "This just made sense ...

Benton Harbor's Wilders are RTO Customers of the year
[August 3, 2009] Sherron and Robert Wilder are APRO's 2009 Customers of the Year. Sherron and Robert Wilder, Rent-A-Center Customers since 1992, are in the business of helping others. From their Safe Haven programs for children, to their current outreach mission for the homeless, the Wilders' impact on Benton Harbor, Michigan and those who have fallen on hard times continues to resonate. ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from July 2009
New easyhome store to open in Texas
[July 31, 2009] Bud Gates, Chairman and CEO of easygates announces the opening of a new easyhome store in the Brazos Square Shopping Center in Waco, Texas on August 1, 2009. This is the third store opened by easycompany an easyhome franchisee based in Wichita, Kansas. “The easyhome concept has proven to be very successful and we believe consumers in Waco ...

RTO Employee of the year finalists announced
[July 31, 2009] The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations today, announced the finalists for its prestigious "Employee of the Year" contest. The contest -- aimed at celebrating those rent-to-own employees who best represent the industry through their contribution to their families, communities and society at large -- was narrowed to four finalists this week out of entries culled from across the ...

High Touch rolls up sleeves for Habitat for Humanity workday
[July 31, 2009] High Touch employees at a recent Habitat workday. A team of 20 High Touch employees and their families volunteered their time Saturday, July 25, to participate in a Habitat for Humanity workday and sponsorship. The home is for a local single parent family seeking a safer place to live and separate bedrooms for two young children. Construction will continue ...

APRO seminars add key insights into RTO business
[July 30, 2009] Sometimes it takes an outsider looking in to help us see what we can do to improve our businesses. We need to know what’s going on legally that is affecting how we do business today, and may very well influence how we do business in the future. And don’t underestimate the power of online training programs that ...

Aaron's racing enters new marketing partnerships
[July 30, 2009] Aaron's, of Atlanta, GA, the Aaron's Outdoors television program and Mossy Oak Brand Camo have teamed together to produce a unique marketing campaign that features specialty paint schemes on three NASCAR racecars and a national register-to-win sweepstakes. Aaron's will replace its familiar Aaron's Dream Machine paint schemes with Mossy Oak patterned camouflage and prominently feature the Aaron's Outdoors logo ...

RTO Customer of the Year finalists announced
[July 29, 2009] The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations today announced the finalists for its prestigious "Customer of the Year" contest. The contest -- aimed at commemorating those rent-to-own customers who best exemplify the human spirit through their contribution to their families, communities and society at large -- was narrowed to three finalists this week out of entries from across the ...

Educational seminars highlight APRO convention
[July 28, 2009] Educational seminars highlight APRO convention Where can you find the most education focused entirely on helping you grow your rent-to-own business in one place? At the APRO 2009 Convention & Buying Show in Las Vegas August 30-September 2. The APRO educational program includes individual sessions on topics such as marketing to a diverse population, evaluating and improving your RTO ...

CEA: Consumer confidence falls to lowest level this year
[July 28, 2009] Consumer confidence in the overall economy dropped in July to its lowest level this year, according to the latest data from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and CNET. The CEA-CNET Indexes also showed that consumers’ confidence in technology and consumer electronics (CE) declined this month. The CEA-CNET Index of Consumer Expectations (ICE) slumped to 165.9 ending two consecutive ...

Easyhome announces Q2 conference call, webcast
[July 28, 2009] easyhome, Canada's largest merchandise leasing company, will hold its management conference call with shareholders, analysts and portfolio managers at 4 p.m. (EST) Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2009. The results will be issued by news release after the market closes on Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2009. Dial-in: toll-free: 1/888-789-9572 or 416-695-7806 Passcode: 6232716 - Dial in the passcode, followed by # ...

Rent-A-Center releases Q2 results
[July 27, 2009] Rent-A-Center today announced revenues and earnings for the quarter ended June 30, 2009. Total revenues for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 were $679.6 million, a decrease of $39.4 million from total revenues of $719.0 million for the same period in the prior year. This anticipated decrease in revenues was primarily the result of a 6....

Colortyme store manager helps win "Mt. Rainier to the Pacific Relay"
[July 27, 2009] ColorTyme Store Manager Dave Ross (Back row, third from left) with his running team -- the recent winner of the "Mt. Rainier to the Pacific Relay". ColorTyme Store Manager Dave Ross and his running team won the “Mount Rainier to the Pacific Relay” – a 154-mile foot race that starts in Ashford, Wash., and ends in Ocean ...

Contest nomination deadline today 5 p.m.!
[July 24, 2009] Today is the nomination deadline for APRO's annual contests and awards. Check out the links below and make sure your employees, customers and companies are entered to win! RTO Employee and Customer of the Year Award: APRO's annual award set aside for those customers and employees who inspire, help or sacrifice for the betterment of others. See complete contest ...

easyhome CFO Fregren steps down
[July 24, 2009] Canadian rent-to-own company easyhome, today announced Chris Fregren, easyhome's current senior vice-president and chief financial officer, is stepping down from the company effective August 16, 2009, after which Steve Goertz will take over the position. Fregren was a key player in some of easyhome's most important recent initiatives, including the rapid expansion of its national network, the launch of ...

RNR, DropJaw Team up for Custom Car Tour
[July 23, 2009] DropJaw Magazine Editor Glenn Pilgreen and RNR Austin Operations Manager Braxton Spangle. John Spangle's RNR Custom Wheels and Performance Tires Austin location Thursday became the the latest stop on a nationwide custom car show tour co-sponsored by DropJaw Magazine. Around 30 cars were expected Thursday at the RNR parking lot off Research Blvd, many in anticipation of the 20th ...

Aaron's and La Quinta Inn & Suites team up to reward customers
[July 23, 2009] Specialty retailer Aaron's Inc. and LQ Management LLC, operator of La Quinta Inn and La Quinta Inn & Suites, are teaming up to provide their customers exclusive discounts and offers. Aaron's customers will enjoy a discount at participating La Quinta hotels by using the discount promo code included in the 27 million advertising flyers distributed monthly by Aaron's. Aaron's ...

Rent-A-Center to make 80K donation to North Texas Food Bank
[July 23, 2009] A special ceremony celebrating Rent-A-Center's $80,000 plus donation to the North Texas Food Bank is scheduled for 11:15 a.m. Monday, July 27 at Rent-A-Center Headquarters in Plano. Representatives of the North Texas Food Bank (NTFB), executives and employees of Rent-A-Center and a family who has benefited from the food bank will be present for the donation. The ...

LG Electronics Introduces first ever THX display
[July 23, 2009] Redefining the LED LCD HDTV landscape, the newest HDTVs from LG Electronics are the first LCDs to receive THX Display Certification in the U.S. market. LG’s new LH90 series, available now through national retailers such as Best Buy and other leading electronics dealers, offer consumers advanced picture quality, smart energy savings and stylish design. “Creating a ...

Aaron's same store revenue up in Q2
[July 21, 2009] Aaron’s Inc., today announced revenues and earnings for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009. For the second quarter of 2009, revenues increased 8% to $417.3 million compared to $387.0 million for the same quarter a year ago. Net earnings from continuing operations were up 24% to $27.8 million versus $22.4 million ...

Bargain Center makes Aaron's conversion
[July 20, 2009] Dale Frederick of Bargain Center, today announced his conversion to Aaron's Sales and Lease Ownership Bargain Center, a company with stores in Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Kansas, today became the latest independent RTO company to convert to Aaron's Sales and Lease Ownership. The deal, which includes the selling of three of Bargain Center's 14 existing stores -- two to Aaron's ...

Harvey replaces Hickey at Aaron's
[July 20, 2009] Scott Harvey, new VP of management development for Aaron's Inc. Long-time Aaron's franchisee and corporate man Mike Hickey recently stepped down as vice president of management development for Aaron's Inc, making room for Scott Harvey. Hickey -- a 15-year Aaron's employee in charge of e-learning, field training and managers-in-training programs -- is leaving the position to better tend to ...

RTO Pro unveils dynamic new features
[July 20, 2009] After requests from its over 800 single and multi-location users, RTO Pro, a leading provider of point-of-sale rental-purchase software, announces two new features to its Windows-based program: Company-wide Inventory and Multiple Depreciation Methods. "This new functionality is just another example of how RTO Pro is able to use advanced Windows technology to grow with the increasing operational needs ...

25 Year Industry Vet Opens Premier in Murfreesboro
[July 20, 2009] New Premier dealers Tom and Martie Opial. Tom Opial opened his Premier Rental Purchase store in Murfreesboro, Tenn. last May, despite the fact that his building wasn’t finished, he had no sign, and it had been a rough road to getting a loan. But he had launched his own new business, and that is all that mattered. “...

Full-O-Pep company picnic ends with a bang
[July 18, 2009] Tori Hunt, nine, daughter of American Rental Manager Timothy Hunt, tries her hand on the mechanical bull Saturday. Over 400 employees, friends and family from Full-O-Pep's 57 American Rental and RNR Custom Wheel and Tire stores turned out for a company wide picnic and fireworks extravaganza Saturday at the conclusion of a two day product training expo in Nashville, ...

American Rental Show wraps, company picnic begins
[July 18, 2009] American Rental Managers Terry Gross and Sharon Lidberg check out the latest product offerings from Guy Pasvogel of Dorrance Supply. Store and regional mangers made their final rounds to vendor booths today at the annual American Rental Product Experience Show at the Seasons Hotel in Nashville, Indiana where they wrapped up trainings with over 35 companies on a range ...

American Rental Show hosts trainings, state association meeting
[July 17, 2009] Rental Purchase Dealers Association of Indiana President Dennis Adams (standing) leads the association's meeting Friday. Managers company-wide trekked to pastoral Nashville, Indiana Friday, for the 19th annual Full-O-Pep/American Rental Product Experience Show where a record number of vendors turned out to support the show at the Seasons Hotel Conference Center. Alongside the packed show floor, where store and regional ...

RimTyme kicks off customer appreciation events
[July 16, 2009] Throughout the first half of July, several RimTyme locations celebrated the “dog days of summer” by hosting customer appreciation events. In the past, to celebrate the summer season, RimTyme corporate-owned stores and franchise locations hosted parking lot auto shows and other customer-oriented events to exhibit rim brands such as Akita, Mezzano, Mazzi and others. “On July 3, ...

BlackBox GPS Announces the release of RoutePlanner
[July 15, 2009] BlackBox GPS, a leading provider of fleet solutions for delivery and service vehicles announced today the release of their fleet routing solution, RoutePlanner. BlackBox GPS RoutePlanner provides the ease and ability to promptly route your vehicles in Real Time with the click of a mouse. This highly anticipated solution, designed with the input from rent-to-own dealer companies from around ...

Broyhill enters RTO market
[July 15, 2009] Jim Vaughn, right, Broyhill rental channel representative, meets with APRO Membership Director Laurie Hill and Marketing Director Cindy Ferguson. Broyhill Home Furnishings, a division of Furniture Brands International, has its sites set on rent-to-own where representatives see the company's innovative product line as the perfect answer to more discriminating RTO customer tastes. Jim Vaughn, director of national accounts for ...

Nine vie for APRO Board of Directors
[July 15, 2009] In just over a month, members of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations will decide who will fill half the seats on the APRO Board of Directors. The official election takes place Aug. 31 during the general session of APRO's 2009 Convention and Buying Show in Las Vegas. This year, nine candidates are vying for eight available positions on ...

High Touch pitches in for Habitat for Humanity
[July 15, 2009] A single, working mom wants a safer place to live and separate bedrooms for her two young children. High Touch wants to make a difference for the Lee family and other families in need. Both are getting their wish, thanks to a July 25 Habitat for Humanity workday and sponsorship. Construction will take place on the Lee home July ...

Measuring Up Expands Internet presence with social networking features
[July 14, 2009] Tony Craig, founder and president of Measuring Up and its parent corporation Right Choice Today, announced the expansion of its Internet presence for Measuring Up. The company added new features to its existing Web site and launched a new auxiliary site as part of Measuring Up's campaign to connect to the most popular social and business networking sites. “...

NEW VIDEO: IRDA Boys and Girls Club donation
[July 14, 2009] Watch video Members of the Illinois Rental Dealers Association July 7, became role models for the local business community after committing $21,000 for much needed capital improvements to a Springfield Boys and Girls Club forced to temporarily shut down next week due to state budget cuts. Read more. The donation, which will fund a slew of renovations at ...

APRO's Rental Rountable brings together top minds in RTO
[July 13, 2009] Early Registration: July 15 APRO's popular rental roundtable session brings together the top minds in rent-to-own for an open forum on the issues affecting the industry. Moderator and keynote speaker Michael Hoffman will lead interactive discussion of nuts and bolts rent-to-own business issues including: Good Business Practices Economic Trends Affecting Rent-To-Own Michael Hoffman New Income Opportunities Community Involvement Education ...

TLH Enterprises relocates its Alice, Texas ColorTyme
[July 9, 2009] TLH Enterprises, owner of more than 40 ColorTyme stores, relocated its ColorTyme store in Alice, Texas, to a more visible location – from one side of Main Street to the other. “Our store has been in Alice for about 15 years,” said Diana Cuellar, co-store manager. “I’ve been here for about 12 years. We’ve ...

APRO Seminars help grow your RTO business
[July 9, 2009] APRO's 2009 Convention and Buying Show in Las Vegas offers a wide range of multi-faceted educational sessions that have something for everyone.Whether you're a store employee, manager, owner or corporate executive you will take away relevant information and strategies to help you do your job better.Choose the topics that benefit your business most. EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE JULY ...

Indiana Dealers to shape legislative strategy next week
[July 8, 2009] The Rental-Purchase Dealers Association of Indiana will hold it's annual meeting at the American Rental/Full-O-Pep Trade Expo and Company Picnic at 10 a.m. at the Seasons Hotel and Conference Center in Nashville, Indiana July 17. Main order of business: negative rent-to-own legislation introduced in the state legislature last session that proposed to limit "reserve accounts", regulate late ...

Illinois Rental Dealers step up when economy is down
[July 8, 2009] IRDA members present a check for $21,000 to Boys and Girls Club of Central Illinois Tuesday. Members of the Illinois Rental Dealers Association Tuesday, became role models for the local business community after committing $21,000 for much needed capital improvements to a Springfield Boys and Girls Club forced to temporarily shut down next week due to state ...

Rent-A-Center donates furnishings, funding to Utica teen center
[July 7, 2009] Representatives from Rent-A-Center presented more than $6,800 in furnishings and electronic merchandise, as well as a $1000 check,to Utica Safe Schools Healthy Students program today. Rent-A-Center gave students involved in the Utica Safe Schools Healthy Students after-school advantage program another reason to check out The Underground Café Teen Center – a complete makeover. Representatives from the local ...

APRO Scholarship Award entries due July 24
[July 7, 2009] Click to play video. The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations is seeking qualified applicants for it's second annual scholarship competition open to all APRO rent-to-own employees and their children. Deadline: July 24, 2009 APRO's Scholarship Foundation will award $2,000 toward college tuition fees for the winning applicant who must be currently attending or accepted into an accredited college ...

Convention: Early Registration Deadline July 15
[July 6, 2009] Early Registration Deadline Next Week! The Rent-To-Own Industry Event of the Year Is Here Register by July 15 – Save $100! Register Now: Dealers Exhibitors Convention packages are $1,195 for Bally's and $1,295 for Paris, with discount, and include a four night hotel stay and complete registration for two people. For example, the Bally's package includes a ...

UK's Brighthouse posts 21.5 percent profit gain
[July 6, 2009] BrightHouse CEO Leo McKee and business developer Hamish Paton at a meeting this summer with APRO officials in Austin, Texas. The UK's largest rent-to-own company, BrightHouse, today announced a 21.5 percent rise in full-year underlying profit and said current trading was in line with management expectations. The 177-store chain said earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) ...

ColorTyme's biggest gets bigger: TLH Enterprises opens second Corpus Christi store
[July 6, 2009] TLH Enterprises, owner of more than 40 ColorTyme stores, opens its second store today in the “sparkling city by the sea,” Corpus Christi, Texas. “I have been working for TLH and ColorTyme for about 10 years,” said store manager Stella Griffin. “I was from San Angelo, Texas, but I moved to Corpus Christi to ...

Premier dealers turn "jailbirds" to send MDA kids to camp
[July 3, 2009] William Cuthbertson jailed to raise money for the Muscular Distrophy Association. Local business owners and community leaders from Clarksville, Tenn. were accused recently of “having a big heart” and were “arrested” and hauled off to “jail” on Thursday, June 18. Among them were Premier Rental-Purchase dealers William, James and Leaann Cuthbertson. They remained “behind bars” ...

APRO Golfers tee off at scenic Angel Park
[July 2, 2009] Angel Park Golf Club. This year's annual Tom Kitchens/Joe Eason Golf Tournament will be held on the Palm Course at the Angel Park Golf Club in Las Vegas during APRO's annual Convention. Registration Deadline: August 14 Find full tournament details and download entry form here. At almost 3,000 feet in elevation, Angel Park offers spectacular views of Red ...

Aaron's Inc. Q2 Conference call July 22
[July 2, 2009] Aaron’s, Inc. will host a conference call at 10:30 a.m. EST July 22 to discuss the company's second quarter 2009 results. There will be opening remarks and then questions and answers with Chairman Charlie Loudermilk, President/CEO Robin Loudermilk, COO Ken Butler, and Executive Vice President/CFO Gil Danielson. Dial 1-800-357-0498 a few minutes before the scheduled time of ...

'A breath of fresh air': Illinois RDA makes renovation possible at area Boys and Girls Club
[July 2, 2009] IRDA Board members. It wasn't the outreach project they'd planned to do; but it's the one that needed doing. The Illinois Rental Dealers Association Tuesday will formally present The Boys and Girls Club of Central Illinois (BGCCIL) with a check for $21,000 at a press conference at 10 a.m. in Springfield -- a donation that will fund ...

New Consumer Protection Agency could impact RTO bills
[July 1, 2009] The Obama administration yesterday sent a detailed proposal to Congress to create an agency to protect consumers and oversee nearly every facet of consumer lending. Though the bill, and the agency it proposes to establish – The Consumer Financial Protection Agency – does not name rent-to-own directly and is focused on abusive mortgage and credit card lending practices that ...

Employee and Customer of the Year: deadline July 24
[July 1, 2009] Click to watch video. APRO's Employee and Customer of the Year Contest is On! Deadline July 24! The search is on for the rent-to-own customer and employee who best personify the spirit of the industry through their work on behalf of others. Nominations can be made online here or by downloading and faxing this application. APRO's Employee and Customer ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from June 2009
Minnesota Supreme Court: Franken wins, Dems at 60
[June 30, 2009] The Minnesota Supreme Court today unanimously ruled former "Saturday Night Live" star Al Franken the winner of last November's Senate race, putting him on the brink of becoming a U.S. Senator and giving Democrats a dominant 60-vote supermajority in the Senate. In a unanimous 5-0 decision, the court upheld a three-judge panel's April 14 ruling that Franken ...

APRO Convention Update: Early bird registration July 15
[June 30, 2009] The Rent-To-Own Industry Event of the Year Is Here Register by July 15 – Save $100! Register Now: Dealers Exhibitors Convention packages are $1,195 for Bally's and $1,295 for Paris, with discount, and include a four night hotel stay and complete registration for two people. For example, the Bally's package includes a $125 per night room rate ...

Rent-A-Center, Q2 2009 conference call broadcast July 28
[June 30, 2009] Rent-A-Center will broadcast its quarterly earnings conference call on Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at 10:45 AM ET over the Internet. This call will be held to discuss the earnings release that will be issued after the close of the market on Monday, July 27, 2009. Audio of the call will be broadcast live and will be available on the ...

American Rental product expo, picnic set for July
[June 29, 2009] American Rentals General Manager David P. David tries his luck on the mechanical bull at last year's American Rental company picnic. American Rental, the third largest independent RTO company in the U.S., is gearing up for its 19th annual training expo and company picnic which this year includes 36 participating vendors who will train company employees on the ...

Premier wraps midyear dealers retreat with open house
[June 26, 2009] The Premier Companies wrapped a successful midyear dealers retreat in Atlanta, Georgia Thursday with an open house for entrepreneurs interested in joining the Premier family. Over 90 dealers attended the retreat and took part in 15 offered workshops available to support dealers in their growth. Premier unveiled a number of new programs in human resources, marketing and training and ...

RAE Awards celebrate the industry's best ads: July 24 deadline
[June 26, 2009] Click to watch. The rent-to-own industry's most prestigious advertising competition is back. But if you want your ad or community relations program included in this year's 2009 Rental Advertising Excellence Awards (RAE) awards competition, you don't have time to waste. The RAE submission deadline is July 24, so click here to learn more and download an entry form. APRO ...

Newly elected councilman donates 1,000 DVDs to libraries
[June 25, 2009] Riverside City Councilman Paul Davis (center) with family at his swearing in ceremony this week. Riverside City Councilman-elect Paul Davis of Ward 4 was officially sworn into office this week, but he's already going to bat for local libraries. Davis, owner of Nations Rent-To-Own, who ran on a platform of fiscal responsibility, said governmental transparency is going to be ...

ColorTyme and RimTyme offer franchise financing guarantee
[June 25, 2009] ColorTyme and RimTyme rent-to-own companies offer franchise business opportunities with a franchise financing guarantee. If an approved franchisee does not receive financing, ColorTyme will refund the franchise fee. ColorTyme, Inc. is America’s oldest franchisor of independently owned-and-operated rent to own stores. ColorTyme’s history is rooted in the desire to help people afford the things they need and ...

Countryside team volunteers for local campers
[June 24, 2009] Countryside Rentals Human Resources Director Jim Runnels pilots a boat full of Kamp Dovetail campers and volunteers. On a picture-perfect summer day, near a postcard lake in southwest Ohio, over 10 percent of the Countryside Rentals workforce was there to lend a hand for one of the largest summer camps for children with disabilities in the Great Lakes region. ...

Customers honored at Bargain Center Customer Appreciation Day
[June 24, 2009] Grand Prize raffle winner Ralph McCord atop his new Harley Davidson. Bargain Center -- a rent-to-own company based in Grove, Oklahoma -- recently held a customer appreciation event throughout all 14 of its store locations to thank its customers the communities it serves. “We really wanted to show our customers that we truly appreciate them and consider them ...

APRO Convention registration open: Early bird discount deadline July 15
[June 24, 2009] This year the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations returns to the "City of Lights" for the rent-to-own event of the year: APRO's 2009 Convention and Buying Show at Paris and Bally's, Las Vegas, Aug. 30 - Sept. 2. This year APRO offers attending dealers a $100 discount off show registration packages for registering before July 15. Register now! ...

ColorTyme bikers trek across U.S. for franchisee retreat
[June 24, 2009] ColorTyme Time Travelers. While many chose to endure air travel to Jackson Hole, Wyo., for ColorTyme’s 2009 Summer Meeting, a valiant group of franchise owners and corporate employees trekked across the country by motorcycle. The group named the Tyme Travelers, included Larry Hill, Mark Shealy, Nellie Rosete, Mark Shaw, Ted Schlaack, Tom Neyhart, Lisa Neyhart and Roger Timmons. ...

High Touch auto dial product helps cut costs
[June 22, 2009] High Touch, Inc., a technology solutions provider, will soon rollout a highly anticipated product that complements the company's PRO/Store point-of-sale software. Auto Dial Voice Messaging is designed to maximize staff efficiencies and minimize overhead, according to Jason Mock, Director of Enterprise Accounts for High Touch. Talley’s Beta Tests Auto Dial More time for sales activities and customer relationships ...

Local ColorTyme owners announce essay contest winners
[June 22, 2009] ColorTyme franchisee Louis Garcia presents laptop computers to local high school essay contest winners. Owners of five ColorTyme franchise stores in Maryland, Epic Ventures LLC today, announced the four winners of the 2009 Epic Ventures People Helping People Senior Essay Competition. Winners of the essay contest include Sloane Morgan and Adjana Ramirez of W.E.B. Dubois High School ...

Premier Rental-Purchase Donates $10K to Booker High School
[June 19, 2009] Premier dealer Calvin Cooksey and wife. Premier Rental-Purchase in Sarasota, Florida, is the proud No. one sponsor of Booker High School's sports program, having recently committed $10,000 to support the Booker Tornadoes. Premier Sarasota is a family-owned and operated rent-to-own store specializing in furniture, appliances and electronics. They opened their doors last August and, according to owner Calvin ...

ColorTyme franchisees, vendors pow wow in all day conference
[June 19, 2009] Yesterday, as part of the ColorTyme Summer Meeting in Jackson Hole, Wyo., franchise owners participated in an all-day conference where they met with several vendors. Vendor representatives provided a list of merchandise that franchisees could later purchase during a special "hot buy" session. ”I love the summer meeting. I learn from others and enjoy visiting with old ...

Heartland Show totals rock expectations
[June 19, 2009] Sale in progress on the show floor of the 2009 Heartland of America Trade Show. The economy may be rotten but you won't find evidence of that in show totals posted at the fifth annual Heartland of America Trade Show which wrapped up yesterday in Lake Ozark, Missouri. The multi-state Midwest rent-to-own staple drew a record crowd this year ...

Rent-A-Center commits to community at Wyoming store opening
[June 19, 2009] Customers in Riverton, Wyoming, and surrounding communities now have a new choice available when it comes to renting or buying brand-name furniture, appliances, electronics and computers. Rent-A-Center celebrated the opening of its newest store with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday. The new store is located in The Shoppes at Federal, 1020 N. Federal Blvd., in Riverton. $2,000 in community ...

Heartland training day adds new level of value to show
[June 18, 2009] Dan Green of Ashley Furniture shows off the engineering behind an Ashley Furniture recliner. The Heartland of America Trade Show today launched its much anticipated product training day where over 150 rent-to-own dealers will rotate through vendor led training sessions aimed at sharpening product knowledge at the store level and improving customer service, sales and relationships. Dealers and store ...

Heartland Show wraps with awards banquet
[June 17, 2009] MRDA Executive Director Ken Steiner (l) with association president John Cleek Jr. Heartland of America Trade Show attendees packed the Granada Ballroom at the Lodge of the Four Seasons Resort Wednesday night for the annual awards banquet recognizing golf and bass tournament winners and reflecting on the association's and the industry's accomplishments over the past year. The four man ...

Relationships rule at Heartland Show
[June 17, 2009] National TV Sales and Rental company at the Heartland of America Show. Though purchase order totals will not be available until tomorrow, organizers of the Heartland of America Tradeshow are all smiles as activity in the main exhibit hall winds up Wednesday evening. Around 167 dealers representing 20 rent-to-own companies packed the sold-out hall here at the fifth annual ...

Dealers, vendors make Heartland Show networking events
[June 17, 2009] L to R: Sean Keefe (DSI), Larry Carrico (Rent One), Kelly Carrico (Rent One) and Dan Haight (Pioneer) enjoy a game of four man scramble Wednesday. Rent to own professionals took full advantage of recreational and networking opportunities today at the fifth annual Heartland of America Regional Trade Show in Lake Ozark, Missouri, showing up en masse for golf ...

Jackson Hole hosts ColorTyme franchise summer meeting
[June 17, 2009] Starting today, the Snake River Lodge in Jackson Hole, Wyo., will host ColorTyme’s Franchise Summer Meeting in which franchisees from around the country will gather to spend several days working with members of the ColorTyme corporate staff, collaborate with fellow franchisees and attend several vendor buying presentations. “I enjoy getting together with the other franchisees and talking ...

RTO dealers turn out for Heartland; attendance up 26 percent
[June 16, 2009] Clint Young (l) of Fisher & Paykel Appliances shows off one of the company's high tech washing machines to Murray Beck of Rent One. Rent-to-own dealers and vendors from over five states across the midwest trekked to the banks of The Lake of the Ozarks tonight to shatter attendance records on opening night of the fifth annual Heartland of ...

BlackBox GPS launches Imagery's "Company Cake" training
[June 15, 2009] BlackBox GPS, the leader in RTO Fleet Routing and Monitoring Solutions announced today their launch of Imagery Marketing’s Company Cake Training Course. The BlackBox GPS Company Cake Courses were developed to help RTO Managers effectively manage their fleet and improve the overall efficiency of their mobile workforce. The courses were specifically designed with regional, district, and store managers ...

Rent-A-Center donates $10,000 to D.C. Food Bank
[June 12, 2009] Rent-A-Center's Dwight Dumler presents a check for $10,000 to Lynn Brantley of the Capital Area Food Bank. Rent-A-Center today donated $10,000 to the Capital Area Food Bank – the Capital region’s largest public, nonprofit food and nutrition education resource. The donated funds will help support the food bank’s various programs and feeding initiatives. “The ...

Above and beyond: RTO employee, customer of the year sought
[June 11, 2009] The search is on for the rent-to-own customer and employee who best personify the spirit of the industry through their work on behalf of others. These are people who inspire, help and sacrifice for the betterment of their families and/or communities. The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations annually celebrates outstanding rental employees and customers who best exemplify the industry ...

Rent One donates computer to youth program
[June 11, 2009] Rent One owner Larry Carrico, Rev. James Gordon, a youth advisor and several children at Rent One corporate offices yesterday. Rent One donated a laptop computer to the Southtown Youth Program in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, Wednesday. The program is run by a local church and coordinates a summer camp for children of all ages. Rent One regularly donates, Big ...

New York dealers hold successful legislative day
[June 10, 2009] NYSRDA annual membership meeting. Around 18 New York Rental Dealers from across the state turned out in Albany, New York, yesterday to meet and greet state lawmakers and promote a better understanding of the rent-to-own transaction's impact on consumers and the economy. The New York State Rental Dealers Association held it's first annual NYSRDA Legislative Day, Tuesday, holding approximately ...

Training to highlight re-vamped Heartland Show
[June 9, 2009] Bass tournament at last year's Heartland Tradeshow. Next week the Heartland of America Trade Show in Lake Ozark, Missouri, will add training to it's enviable golfing, fishing, networking and buying bonanza, a move that will further fortify the show's regional legacy as a value packed company destination. Over 150 Rent-to-own pros from Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas and Missouri are ...

Easygates opens two new franchise stores
[June 8, 2009] Easygates -- the franchise division of Canada-based easyhome -- opened two new stores last week in San Marcos, Texas and Salina, Kansas. “We are elated to bring the easyhome concept to two new markets," said Bud Gates, chairman and CEO of easygates, "Trent McKenzie and Chuck Siedlecki, our Central Texas Franchisees have put together a great ...

Davis wins Riverside City Council Seat
[June 3, 2009] Riverside Ward 4 City Councilman Paul Davis. Listen to podcast. Rent-to-own dealer Paul Davis is the new Riverside Ward 4 City Councilman after winning a decisive victory over the two-term incumbent last night. Davis took home 52 percent of the vote in the race against Frank Schiavone in a hard fought election in which voters also returned incumbents Nancy ...

Discover Rental Purchase launches franchise happiness guarantee
[June 2, 2009] In a business landscape cluttered with companies seeking franchise operators, Jim Steger thinks he may have it figured out. As Vice President of Franchise Development for Discover Rental Purchase, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Steger knows he is competing with hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S businesses who are wooing potential franchise operators. And, in an uncertain economic ...

Rent-A-Center contributes $2K to library at store opening
[June 2, 2009] Starting today, customers in Novi, Michigan, and surrounding communities have a new choice available when it comes to renting or buying brand-name furniture, appliances, electronics and computers. Rent-A-Center is celebrating the opening of its newest store at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2. Featuring approximately 4,500 square feet of high-quality merchandise, the new store is located at ...

APRO 2009 Scholar search begins
[June 1, 2009] APRO 2008 Scholarship winner Penny Wyatt (center) with then APRO President Larry Carrico (left) and Show Me Rent To Own owner Gary Romine. Watch Video. The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations is seeking qualified applicants for it's second annual scholarship competition open to all APRO rent-to-own employees and their children. Application deadline: July 24, 2009 APRO's Scholarship Foundation will ...

Don's EZ Pay to open new store in July
[June 1, 2009] Arkansas-based Don's E-Z Pay is looking to open a fourth store in neighboring Idabel, Oklahoma this July, almost a year after the company's founder, Don Cecil died. Cecil's daughter, Rhonda Weatherford, a registered nurse, who has also managed the company's three existing stores for the past 10 years, said the expansion was one envisioned by Cecil before his death. ...

ColorTyme franchisees see big future in Canton
[June 1, 2009] Tony Trombley and Tom Smith Partner to Offer Superior Customer Service in New Store Canton, Ohio is now the home of a new ColorTyme store – co-owned by Tony Trombley and Tom Smith. Located near the corner of Whipple Avenue and Tuscarawas Street West in Canton Centre Mall, the 5,000 square-foot ColorTyme offers residents a new choice in ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from May 2009
ColorTyme store celebrates successful fundraiser for boy awaiting heart transplant
[May 29, 2009] It started with Hanover’s local ColorTyme store donating a laptop. Then it progressed to the development of a “Have a Heart, Give a Heart” fundraising campaign – all for Jarrett Peck, a 10-year-old boy who will soon undergo a complicated heart surgery. See previous story. Today, the Hanover community has collectively raised enough dollars to meet the ...

RTO employee and customer of the year search is on
[May 29, 2009] Far right: APRO's 2008 Employee of the Year Bill Tennison of Heartland Furniture and Appliance. Watch video. The search is on for the rent-to-own customer and employee who best personify the spirit of the industry through their work on behalf of others. Nominations are being accepted now through July 24. Nominations can be made online or by faxing this ...

RNR continues to help feed hungry in Tampa
[May 29, 2009] Members of Grace Family Church serve meals in their outdoor soup kitchen set up in the parking lot of an RNR Custom Wheels & Performance Tire’s store in Tampa, Fla. RNR Custom Wheels & Performance Tire’s store on East Fletcher Avenue in Tampa, Florida, has been drawing a crowd of hundreds of people every Monday and Tuesday ...

DSI, Digital Delivery Group announce strategic alliance
[May 28, 2009] DSI Systems, the nation's largest distributor of satellite and consumer electronic equipment, and Digital Delivery Group (DDG), the leading convergence and digital products-focused distribution consortium, today announced a strategic partnership creating the DSI DDG Alliance. With 59 pickup facilities coast to coast, the alliance will provide custom integrators with the largest inventory of flat panel televisions in the industry, ...

Rent-A-Center Gift to benefit summer camps in Onondaga and Madison Counties
[May 28, 2009] New York State Sen. David Valesky joins Rent-A-Center representatives as they present Camp Healing Hearts with a check for $4,000. Rent-A-Center will help brighten summer vacation for more than 740 children attending Camp Lookout in Madison County and Camp Healing Hearts in Onondaga County. Representatives from 14 area Rent-A-Center stores presented more than $8,500 in cash and ...

Electronics lead consumer confidence rally
[May 28, 2009] Consumer confidence in the overall economy moved up sharply in May, according to figures released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). The CEA-CNET Indexes also show that consumers continue to feel more confident about future spending on technology and consumer electronics (CE). The CEA-CNET Index of Consumer Expectations (ICE) climbed in May, reaching 174.6, up nearly six ...

Vendor Advisory Committee nominations due July 1
[May 27, 2009] Seven seats on APRO's Vendor Advisory Committee are up for election this year and the nomination process is now underway. The Vendor Advisory Committee is open to any APRO Associate Member in good standing who desires to get more involved with the rent-to-own industry trade association. The election will be held at the APRO Annual Convention and Buying Show ...

Cleek's annual bowling event tops $100K mark
[May 27, 2009] John Cleek Jr.'s sixth annual "Bowling for Autism" event earlier this month raised $21,400 for the Judevine Center for Autism in Columbia, Missouri, bringing the six-year fundraising total for the event to $106,000. Money from the event held at the AMF Town and Country Lanes, in Columbia, Missouri, which involved 154 bowlers and a silent ...

Consumer confidence rallies for biggest jump in six years
[May 27, 2009] The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index last month posted its largest month to month gain in six years, rallying to an eight month high as consumers continue to gain footing in an economy rife with sluggish economic factors. The Index now stands at 54.9 (1985=100), up from 40.8 in April. The Present Situation Index increased to 28....

Lynn Porter of RentQuik dies
[May 26, 2009] Longtime APRO member Lynn Porter, 53, of RentQuik died this Sunday afternoon of cardiac arrest. A memorial service has been scheduled for 4 p.m. at Freeman Harris Funeral in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Porter had been in business since 1985, and an APRO members since 1987, with six RentQuick stores in Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Warr Acres, Oklahoma. Friends and ...

Industry arguments begin in Mass. Supreme Court case
[May 26, 2009] Industry attorneys head to Boston June 9 to begin oral arguments before the Massachusetts Supreme Court over a multi-million dollar lawsuit that claims the state's 20 - year old RTO statute does not regulate RTO transactions. Read More. Last December the lawsuit a Massachusetts Federal District Court sent the case -- - Silva et al v. Rent-A-Center -- to ...

Rent One first to donate to holiday fundraiser for troops
[May 22, 2009] JCOIF officials Sherri Meadows and Joyce Coorman accept a check from Rent One Owner Larry Carrico while Rent One managers Keen, Murray Beck and Trent Agin look on with other members of the JCOIF. Larry and Sharon Carrico and the entire Rent One family Thursday, kicked off the 2009 fundraising campaign for the Jefferson County Operation Iraqi Freedom Committee ...

FRDA signs up dealers for new skips/stolen database
[May 21, 2009] Florida rental dealers discuss a new skips/stolen database at their annual association meeting last September. Buddy’s Home Furnishings, Rent King, and ColorTyme dealer Dave Pagano this week are the first companies to sign on to a new real time database rental dealers hope will allow them to reduce theft by identifying applicants who have stolen rental property in ...

Consumer protection, regulation drive credit card reform
[May 20, 2009] A sweeping bill that would tame "abusive" practices by the credit card industry could make it's way out of the U.S. House of Representatives today after passing the Senate yesterday on a 90-5 vote. Propelled by a wave of anti-bank and pro-consumer sentiment, the bill would outlaw staple credit card industry practices such as surprise interest rate ...

Dolezal named new High Touch CFO
[May 20, 2009] New High Touch CFO Vernon A. Dolezal. High Touch, a technology solutions provider, has hired Vernon A. Dolezal Jr., as director of finance and chief financial officer. The announcement was made by Wayne Chambers, High Touch CEO/president. Dolezal has 20 years of finance and accounting experience, including corporate finance positions with The Carrier Corporation and Case-New Holland. Most recently ...

Call for APRO Board nominations
[May 20, 2009] In just over three months, members of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) will play a key role in shaping the course of the rent-to-own trade association and the industry as well. Eight of 17 APRO Board seats are up for grabs at APRO's 2009 Convention and Buying Show Aug. 30 - Sept. 2 at Paris and Bally's, ...

ColorTyme, RimTyme name new communications head
[May 19, 2009] Ryan Alford, new corporate communications specialist for ColorTyme, RimTyme. ColorTyme and RimTyme announced today the hiring of Ryan Alford as the new corporate communications specialist. In his new role, Alford will lead both brands’ public relations strategies, assist with internal communications and, most importantly, support franchisees. Before joining ColorTyme and RimTyme, Alford was the corporate communications manager for Quiznos ...

Wayland Russell to headline Premier dealer retreat
[May 19, 2009] Wayland Russell, founder and former CEO of Rainbow Rentals, will address attendees at the Premier 2009 Dealer Retreat June 24. Russell will focus on the importance of the entrepreneurial spirit and explain how Rainbow’s mantra – “More, Better, Different” – continually challenged those within the organization to take Rainbow’s performance off the charts and change the ...

Past APRO President heads rental sales for King Koil
[May 18, 2009] Glenn Davis of King Koil Mattress Company. APRO past president Glenn Davis and Curtis Spain will head up the newly created national rental sales division for King Koil Mattress Company, he announced this week. Davis was president of APRO in 1985 and served as secretary for six years. He was one of the founding members of the rent-to-own trade ...

Registration opens for 2009 Midwest RTO Training Expo
[May 18, 2009] Packed show floor at last year's Midwest RTO Expo. Registration for the hottest regional RTO Training Expo has begun. The sixth annual Midwest RTO Training Expo -- the brainchild of the Ohio Rental Dealers Association (ORDA) -- kicks off September 29-30 at the Concourse Hotel and Conference Center in Columbus, Ohio and registration for the event begins today. Last ...

New RTOHQ: The Magazine profiles industry lobbyists, "Niche" Connection
[May 18, 2009] By APRO Executive Director Bill Keese Prior to becoming our 18th president, Ulysses S. Grant was fond of sipping brandy and smoking cigars in the lobby of the famed Willard Hotel, just two blocks from the White House. Folklore has it that America’s Civil War hero coined the term “lobbyist” to describe those who approached him seeking ...

Premier to host franchising open house
[May 15, 2009] The Premier Companies, one of the top five fastest growing young franchisors, is hosting an Open House for those interested in owning their own business or growing their business portfolio in the rent and sale of household, auto related and financial goods and services. The event will be held at the Atlanta Airport Marriott, Atlanta, Georgia, June 25. Participants ...

Georgia Dealers welcome Loudermilk October 7
[May 14, 2009] The Georgia Rental Dealers Association (GRDA) annual membership meeting will be held 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Oct. 7 at the Marriot Airport Renaissance Hotel in Atlanta and will feature a talk from the head of Aaron's, Inc. The meeting will precede the TRIB Group’s Meeting of the Minds also held on the 7th and 8th. ...

Arkansas dealers elect new board
[May 14, 2009] New ARDA Officers and Board members. Around 30 Arkansas rental dealers met Wednesday to elect a new slate of board members and officers to their state dealers association and participate in a range of educational presentations at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in West Little Rock. New board-members and officers are as follows: Scott Houchin, president, FAN Sales and Leasing, ...

WVRDA elects new officers, sets course for future
[May 13, 2009] West Virginia Officers: vice president Josh Hendricks, president Mike Courts and secretary/treasurer Rebecca Hollen. Around 16 rental dealers from 10 companies showed up at the Grand Pointe Conference Center in Vienna, West Virginia today to elect officers and come to grips with new regulations regarding the pricing of used merchandise. Dealers elected a new board including president Mike Courts, ...

Hanover ColorTyme rallies community support for boy's heart transplant
[May 13, 2009] Residents of McSherrystown, Hanover and surrounding Pennsylvania communities -- including the Hanover ColorTyme -- are combining forces to raise funds for a local 10-year-old in dire need of a heart transplant. The Community fundraiser is for Jarrett Peck a 10-year-old boy, who has had two open-heart surgeries, five stints, and three coils in his heart and lungs. He was ...

Re-tooled Heartland Show set for June 16-18
[May 12, 2009] Dealers from at least five states will again head to the scenic Lodge of the Four Seasons Resort in Lake Ozark, Missouri, for the fifth annual Heartland of America Regional Trade Show and Seminar June 16-18. Rent-to-own pros from Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas and Missouri are expected and dealers from other states are welcome at the annual event which ...

Does FTC "Red Flags" rule apply to RTO?
[May 11, 2009] Ed Winn III By Ed Winn III, APRO Legal Counsel There is considerable press and palaver about the new FTC Red Flags rule, and what companies must do to get in compliance with it. You can read all about the rule at www.ftc.gov/redflagsrule. The first step to a proper interpretation and then implementation of the rule is ...

New ColorTyme opens with donation to child advocacy group
[May 8, 2009] Ribbon cutting ceremony for new ColorTyme in Augusta, Georgia. Bud Evans, owner of the new ColorTyme franchise store in Augusta, Georgia, cut the ceremonial red ribbon in front of his store April 30 to kick-off the grand opening celebration. Representatives from the mayor’s office and the chamber of commerce participated in the festivities, which included plenty of refreshments ...

Rent One takes on students in job shadowing program
[May 8, 2009] Rent One staffers Lori McGovern, Murray Beck, Chris Lowe and Donna Fally mentored local high school students in a job shadowing program Thursday. Rent One's Mt. Vernon, Illinois corporate staff grew by four yesterday as part of a new job shadowing initiative aimed at giving local high school students a taste of the real world. Students from Mt. Vernon ...

Easyhome Q1 results released
[May 7, 2009] Canadian-based rent-to-own Easyhome today announced its results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2009. Revenue for the quarter increased 10.2% to $43.9 million compared with $39.8 million in the first quarter of 2008. Operating income was $4.4 million, down from $5.7 million for the first three months of 2008. Net income for the ...

RTO vets open new Premier store in Coshocton, Ohio
[May 7, 2009] Jeff Gibson and Ron Semelsberger. When Ron Semelsberger decided to join the RTO industry 23 years ago, he had no idea it would lead him and his family toward three acquisitions, six different relocations and the ability to one day own his own business as a Premier franchisee. When Semelsberger and his partner Jeff Gibson and their team of ...

Arkansas dealers gear up for spring meeting
[May 7, 2009] Arkansas dealers from across the state will convene next Wednesday at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in West Little Rock. Members will elect directors to its board as well as officers during the packed agenda which also includes a talk by Chuck Sanders, Rent-A-Center Regional Director (R064) for the Dallas, TX area. Lobbist Mark Lowery will brief attendees on the ...

CORT Furniture enters staging game
[May 6, 2009] Furniture rental company CORT is using its furniture muscle to help sell homes through a nationwide home staging program that will outfit empty homes homes for sale, according to the Washington Business Journal. The Fairfax, Virginia-based company also runs a corporate relocation service that includes helping sell the homes of employees being relocated by their new or existing employer ...

Voting begins in Paul Davis' council race
[May 5, 2009] Riverside City Council Candidate Paul Davis of Nations Rent-To-Own. Listen to podcast. Rent-to-own veteran Paul Davis' bid for a seat on the Riverside, California City Council began in ernest Monday as voters began receiving ballots for the mail-only election that will determine three council races. Davis, owner of two Nation's Rent-To-Own stores -- one in Riverside and the other ...

West Virginia dealers to study new pricing landscape, elect new officers
[May 4, 2009] WVRDA President Shawn DiLeo. When Shawn DiLeo, spearheaded the re-organization of the West Virginia Rental Dealers Association (WVRDA) two years ago, he was glad to have six dealers show up. A lot has changed since then. After two years as the WVRDA president, DiLeo is no longer managing stores for a franchisee, he's become one. With three ColorTyme stores ...

RAC outfits rec-rooms for Fort Knox soldiers
[May 4, 2009] With help from the Rent-A-Center Random Act of Caring program, soldiers at Fort Knox will enjoy new furnishings in six rest and recreation areas on the U.S. Army base. Three rooms in the 233rd Transportation Barracks, two rooms in the 19th Engineer’s Building and the reception area of the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Building will receive the following ...

Rent-to-own News Archives from April 2009
Theft on the rise, lash back with world's first free GPS tracking devices
[April 30, 2009] Merchandise theft and loss costs Americans over an estimated 50 billion dollars every year. Globally, hundreds of billions are lost annually. IContain Aims to remedy this problem. With the cost of loss prevention climbing in an effort to combat these increases in theft, loss, and damage, available solutions for protecting valuables are a major expense for many industries - ...

CEA: Net-enabled TV's in high demand
[April 29, 2009] Demand for Internet-enabled televisions is growing rapidly, according to a new study by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). The study, Net-Enabled Video: Early Adopters Only? found that about half of prospective TV buyers say they are likely to purchase an Internet-connected TV. The study reveals numerous ways consumers would use an Internet-enabled TV. Nearly half (48 percent) of U....

Montana bill exempts rental goods from property tax
[April 29, 2009] A bill that will lighten the tax load on rent-to-own dealers in Montana became law last week after passing out of the state legislature one vote shy of unanimously. The new law will exempt from personal property tax "property (that) is owned by a business whose primary business income is from rental or lease of personal property to ...

Imagery welcomes vendors, clients to new digs
[April 29, 2009] Imagery Principal Marty Smith (right) discusses the company's newest offering, variable print on demand solution iDemandNOW, with open house attendees. After outgrowing their old digs and moving to a new building in April 2008, Imagery Marketing Group’s staff went to work. They worked on fliers and product development, on websites and TV production, logos, placement, and more. By ...

GDP falls 6.1% in first quarter on record investment drop
[April 29, 2009] The U.S. economy again took a nosedive in the first quarter of the year as business investment declined at a record rate, the Commerce Department reported today. Real gross domestic product -- the inflation-adjusted, seasonally adjusted value of all goods and services produced in the United States -- fell at a 6.1 percent annualized rate in the ...

RAC opens new store, commits $2,000 to Sheridan community
[April 29, 2009] Come April 1, customers in Sheridan, Wyoming, and surrounding communities have a new choice available when it comes to renting or buying brand-name furniture, appliances, electronics and computers. Rent-A-Center is celebrating the opening of its newest store at noon on Wednesday, April 29. Featuring 4,640 square feet of high-quality merchandise, the new store is located at 2240 Coffeen ...

Northwest Rental Dealers meet May 14
[April 28, 2009] The Northwest Rental Dealers Association will meet May 14 for the group's annual business meeting at the La Quinta Hotel in Tacoma Washington. The group, which represents the states of Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana, will meet to hear an update on Washington state legislative issues as well as a federal legislative update from APRO Legal Counsel Ed Winn ...

Neyharts hold ColorTyme Easter Egg Hunt
[April 28, 2009] Lisa Neyhart, Easter egg hunt winner and Tom Neyhart. Tom Neyhart stood at the front of his ColorTyme store with arms folded, surveying his place of business with a sly smile. The store was clean and perfect, and everything was in place as usual – the electronics section was stocked with plenty of TVs, home stereo systems, digital video ...

Aaron's reports record Q1 revenues
[April 28, 2009] Aaron’s, Inc. Monday, announced revenues and earnings for the three months ended March 31, 2009. For the first quarter of 2009, revenues rose 15% to $474.0 million compared to $412.7 million for the same quarter a year ago. Net earnings from continuing operations were $35.4 million versus $22.6 million in 2008, a 57% increase. ...

Rent-A-Center reports first quarter 2009 Results
[April 27, 2009] Rent-A-Center today announced revenues and earnings for the quarter ended March 31, 2009. First Quarter 2009 Results Total revenues for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 were $728.2 million, a decrease of $28.4 million from total revenues of $756.6 million for the same period in the prior year. This decrease in revenues was primarily the result ...

DiLeo opens third ColorTyme in Kentucky
[April 27, 2009] Shawn DiLeo last Friday, opened his third ColorTyme in the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Georgetown, Kentucky. A ColorTyme franchisee since September 2008, DiLeo's two other stores, also in Kentucky, comprise the first phase of DiLeo's six store plan. "This is a great time to be in rent-to-own," DiLeo said. "That zero percent financing is not around anymore ...

Buddy's car earns pole award at Talladega
[April 27, 2009] Tom Hessert and the Andy Belmont Racing Team accept the Menards Pole Award. Tom Hessert, in the Andy Belmont Racing owned Buddy’s Home Furnishings #1 Ford Fusion, earned his 1st career Menards Pole Award for the ARCA RE/MAX 250 race on Friday, April 24th at Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama. "It's awesome," said Hessert. "It's definitely ...

Aaron's Q1 conference call tomorrow
[April 27, 2009] Aaron's Inc. will hold it's first quarter 2009 earnings conference call live tomorrow at 10:30 a.m. ET. Featured speakers include: Ken Butler, COO, Gilbert Danielson, EVP & CFO, Charlie Loudermilk, Chairman and Robin Loudermilk, President & CEO. The Aaron's Sales & Lease Ownership division has 983 company-owned stores and 483 franchised stores. The company’s corporate furnishings business ...

Fleet management systems key to RTO success
[April 27, 2009] In today’s business world, maintaining a strong competitive advantage is critical to achieving long term sustainable growth. In the past, RTO growth has been associated with effective marketing programs, improved customer service, and maintaining a great product margin. However during these difficult economic conditions, business owners and managers must revisit the way they conduct their day to day ...

Legislative momentum strong at APRO Conference
[April 23, 2009] Shannon Strunk and Cynthia Baber-Strunk with Sen. Roger Wicker. Wicker agreed to sign on as an RTO co-sponsor today. Rent-to-own dealers and industry representatives headed to Capitol Hill en masse today for the second of a two day barrage of meetings with Congressional leaders in support of the Consumer Rental Purchase Agreement Act. More than 150 from APRO's 2009 ...

Industry hits Capitol Hill
[April 22, 2009] Bob Lawrence, Ernie Lewallen, Joel Ehrlich and Scott Kinnear at the Longworth House Office Building Wednesday. Rent-to-own industry representatives from across the country this morning kicked off the first of a two day mission to send a message to the nation's lawmakers: rent to own legislation is good for consumers, good for business and good for the economy. APRO ...

RTO synergy at APRO Legislative Conference opener
[April 21, 2009] Frank Davis, senior policy analyst to RTO bill sponsor Rep. William Lacy Clay, praises the industry Tuesday night. More than 150 rent-to-own industry representatives from across the country packed the grand ballroom of the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel in Washington, D.C. today to learn more about the intricacies of pending federal industry legislation and how to best explain those ...

Son joins father at Rent One
[April 21, 2009] Rent One owner Larry Carrico welcomes son Steven Carrico as the company's new property development manager. Steven Carrico this week joined his father, Rent One owner Larry Carrico, on the Rent One team as the company's property development manager. For the past two and a half years, Steven, 24, worked for RNR Custom Wheels and Tires, leading the sales ...

Premier in Dayton Awards High School Student with Computer
[April 21, 2009] Scott Kinnear with new laptop winner Austin Reid. Dayton Premier Rental-Purchase, in conjunction with WRCX-TV 40 and The Ohio Lottery Commission, awarded Vandalia Butler High School Senior Austin Reid with a brand new Acer Lap Top Computer. The computer was part of the Student Achiever Initiative, an award given quarterly to a student in the Dayton Miami Valley area ...

ColorTyme backs industry at APRO Legislative Conference
[April 20, 2009] ColorTyme, America’s oldest rental-purchase franchisor, has turned out in force for the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations’ (APRO) 2009 Dave Egan Legislative Conference scheduled for April 21 - 23 in Washington, D.C. More than 150 attendees representing close to 50 rent-to-own companies will convene this week at the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel for the trade association's 16th annual ...

Home Express expands with first licensee location
[April 19, 2009] Rent-to-own newcomer Home Express celebrated the grand opening of its first licensee location in Jeffersonville, Indiana Friday. With the strong performance of the six company owned locations, Penny Neace will head up Home Express' first licensee store and kick off a new development phase for the company, now only two years old. Neace said says she is excited about ...

Rent One donates van to Danny Davis Computer Training Center
[April 17, 2009] Rent One's Trent Agin and Larry Carrico with Lowry Taylor. Mt. Vernon Illinois-based Rent One yesterday donated a fully reconditioned van to an innovative Chicago based training program, named after rent-to-own bill co-sponsor Rep. Danny K. Davis. The Danny K. Davis Job Training Program (DKDJTP) is a "hands on" curriculum that teaches computer repair and assembly skills to ...

Rent-A-Center helps boost Literacy program in Oswego County
[April 17, 2009] Xavier Dominicis (center), vice president public affairs for Rent-A-Center with Sen. Neil Breslin (l) and Jane Murphy, executive director for LIteracy Volunteers of Oswego County at the presentation of the new learning center for Literacy Volunteers at the YMCA in Oswego. Rent-A-Center’s most recent Random Act of Caring in New York State brightened the day for literacy tutors ...

Countryside bowlers raise money for family fighting cancer
[April 17, 2009] Beulah, Brittney and Don Riffle at Countryside Rent-2-Own's "Bowling 4 Brittney" fundraiser. Countless times Ben Davis has gotten sweaty and knocked down some wood at Trio Lanes in Wellston, Ohio. But never had hurling his ball down the alley had more meaning or impact than earlier this week, at the Bowling 4 Brittney fundraiser, sponsored by Countryside Rent-2-Own. ...

Ohio RTO rivalry enters round three
[April 17, 2009] Mike Tissot and Gary Ferriman compete for Ohio RTO bragging rights this week. Ohio rent-to-own company owners Mike Tissot of Countryside Rentals and Gary Ferriman of Showplace Rent To Own this week are furthering their legendary rivalry this week, pursuing a no holds barred rally to gain customers. The contest, which will end this Saturday, is the third held ...

RTO House bill gains five, ups total to 53
[April 17, 2009] Georgia Rep. Tom Price is the 14th member of the House Committee on Financial Services to support H.R. 1744. Industry congressional leaders learned today five new House co-sponsors committed to support the Consumer Rental Purchase Agreement Act, marking the largest show of support prior to APRO's Annual Legislative Conference in the nine-session history of the bill. Representatives Dr. ...

Bestway acquires F.A.N. stores
[April 15, 2009] Dallas-based Bestway Rent To Own, today announced the acquisition of four F.A.N. Rent To Own stores, raising the company's total store count to 77. The four purchased stores are located in Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway and Russellville, Arkansas. The acquisition leaves F.A.N. owner Geron Vail with 17 stores. "We were excited about ...

Best: Briley, Sayre tie for top Aaron's franchise
[April 14, 2009] Kelly Sayre, owner of Alliance Rental, tied for Aaron's top franchise Tuesday. Aaron's wrapped up its annual managers meeting Tuesday night, with a star studded awards banquet honoring the best performing franchises, company stores and managers at the Gaylord National Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. APRO Vice President Robert Briley and partner Terry Bilbrey, of Briley Investments, and ...

Aaron's guides massive community outreach in DC
[April 14, 2009] Aaron's emcee Michael Blair fires up runners before Aaron's first ever Wounded Warrior 5K at the company's annual managers meeting in Maryland. More than 1,000 Aaron's franchise owners, managers and employees braved drizzly rain Tuesday morning to take part in the company's largest ever community outreach campaign involving some 5,600 hours and $500,000 in products and ...

Aaron Rents becomes Aaron's, Inc.
[April 14, 2009] Effective April 20, Aaron Rents, will change its name to Aaron's, Inc. according to Robin Loudermilk Jr., Aaron's president and CEO, who officially unveiled the new name Monday evening to 2,000 associates in attendance at Aaron's National Managers Meeting held in Washington, D.C. "Aaron's is creating consistent brand messaging by bringing the corporate name in line ...

Aaron's launches managers meeting, historic community projects top agenda
[April 14, 2009] Aaron's Dream Team dancers kick off the company's national meeting at the Gaylord Convention Center in Maryland. Close to 2,000 franchise owners, managers and divisional vice presidents from Aaron's 1,560 store rent-to-own chain opened the company's annual managers meeting Monday at National Harbor, Maryland, with a high energy pep-rally and general session that set the tone for ...

Easyhome 2008 annual report details new initiatives, growth opportunities
[April 10, 2009] Canadian-based rent-to-own company easyhome, today released it's 2008 annual report detailing the company's performance last year and growth opportunities for its franchise division, easygates, which is poised to open 10-15 new locations this year. In the past five years, easyhome has expanded the number of stores from 131 to 229, its workforce to 1,425, and its customer base ...

TARA Convention and Buying Show exhibitor contracts available online
[April 8, 2009] Today, the Texas Association of Rental Agencies announced the dates for its 26th Annual Convention & Southwest Buying Trade Show will be October 11-12, 2009, at the Hotel InterContinental-Dallas, a few blocks from the Galleria shopping area. "And this is only one of the many improvements your TARA Board of Directors has made over the past year," ...

ORDA elects Kinnear president, moves Midwest Expo dates
[April 8, 2009] New ORDA officers: (l to r) Joel Elrich, treasurer, Scott Kinnear, president, Mark Kohler, vp, Tony Craig, secretary (not pictured).. Around 18 rent-to-own dealers from 11 companies turned out today for the Ohio Rental Dealers Association spring business meeting in Columbus where they elected a new president and set new dates for the group's regional trade show. Scott Kinnear, ...

Conference sponsors support RTO legislative agenda
[April 8, 2009] APRO's 16th Annual Legislative Conference comes to Washington, D.C. April 21-23 and hundreds of rent-to-own dealers, vendors and employees will head to Capitol Hill to put a human face on the industry and urge passage of the Consumer Rental Purchase Agreement Act -- a bill that would regulate the industry and improve consumer protections. Equally important to this ...

ColorTyme store manager supports child in need of heart transplant
[April 8, 2009] Maria Brooks, ColorTyme store manager in Hanover, Pennsylvania. Maria Brooks, ColorTyme store manager in Hanover, Pennsylvania, likes getting to know her customers. She says over time she gets to hear their life stories and she feels lucky to be in a position to ‘hear and serve’. Her philosophy has recently become fortuitous for Dale and Shawntel Peck who ...

BlackBox GPS, TruckSkin partnership delivers strong ROI
[April 7, 2009] BlackBox GPS, a leading provider of GPS Monitoring Solutions for Delivery and Service Vehicles, today announced TruckSkin -- maker of interchangeable banners, decals, and adhesive wraps for fleet vehicles -- has become a Licensed BlackBox GPS Authorized Dealer. The Authorized Dealer Agreement between BlackBox GPS and TruckSkin will provide approximately 5,000 TruckSkin customers with the option to add ...