Association of Progressive Rental Organizations

Three APRO Members Make ‘Entrepreneur’ Franchise 500 List

Entrepreneur Franchise 500 illustration

Entrepreneur magazine released its 2023 Franchise 500 Ranking, and three exceptional APRO members made the list. The 44th edition of the annual ranking placed Rent-A-Center at 105, RNR Tire Express at 170, and Buddy’s Home Furnishings at 242.

Rent-A-Center logo

“The past year underscores the extraordinary opportunities that the franchise industry presents for entrepreneurs of all levels,” says Entrepreneur Editor-in-Chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to our 44th annual Franchise 500 list represent some of the most innovative, creative, and trusted brands across many industries and highlight what it takes to build the kind of momentum that drives long-lasting success.”

The magazine notes that all three companies grew their number of locations over the past three years: Rent-A-Center, with 2,369 stores, increased 0.3% over that time; RNR increased 37.1%, reaching 170 outlets; and Buddy’s 13% growth brings it to 330 stores.

RNR notched its 11th straight year on the list; Rent-A-Center now has eight consecutive rankings.

Entrepreneur explains that the rankings are based upon more than 150 data points across five categories: the costs and fees to acquire and run a franchise; the corporate support offered to franchisees; the size and growth of the company; brand strength; and financial strength and stability. In all, 1,321 companies were considered for the list.

APRO is proud to offer our congratulations to these extraordinary members on this national recognition.

The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) is America’s only national trade association for the rental-purchase industry. Our mission is to provide valuable member benefits, maintain a benevolent business climate, and promote professionalism with responsibility and integrity throughout our industry. For more information, reach out to APRO at info@rtohq.org.

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Mike Tissot

Countryside Rentals Inc., dba Rent-2-Own

Mike grew up in the rent-to-own industry under the guidance of his father, former APRO President and RTO legend Darrell Tissot. For nearly 25 years, Mike’s innovative leadership has helped expand the family business to more than 40 stores across Ohio and Kentucky while also shaping the industry as a whole.

He has served as President of the Ohio Rental Dealers Association, an APRO board member and Treasurer, and President and Treasurer of the TRIB Group. His contributions have earned him the APRO President’s Award of Excellence and the title of APRO Rental Dealer of the Year.

Outside of RTO, Mike enjoys time at the lake house or in Orange Beach, Alabama, with his girlfriend, Angela Strong McCool. A passionate Cincinnati Reds fan, he rarely misses a game, whether watching or listening alongside his parents. He also takes every opportunity to visit Arizona, where his daughter is currently attending Arizona State University.