APRO

LEAP Session 20
2026-09-08 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | LEAP Program
Welcome to LEAP, an exciting leadership development program brought to you by APRO and TRIB Group. LEAP is designed to cultivate leadership skills within the RTO industry.

Each month, we’ll explore a new leadership topic through live Zoom sessions or in-person at Meeting of the Minds and RTO World. This program is open to both current and aspiring leaders within your company. While we encourage ongoing participation, each session is designed to stand alone, allowing you to join at any time without missing a step in your development. Plus, all sessions will be recorded and available for download, so your team can learn at their convenience.

Participants will have the opportunity to earn class credits by attending or watching the training sessions and completing a brief survey. Accumulating credits will lead to various certification levels, with potential rewards to be announced.

Speaker: To Be Announced

Topic: To Be Announced

Zoom Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89024805687

Request Access to LEAP:
Request access here

Access LEAP Portal:
Access the portal here

2026 RTO World
2026-08-24 - 2026-08-27 | Palm Beach County Convention Center, 650 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL, 33401, United States
Get ready for the ultimate rent-to-own experience at RTO World 2026, co-hosted by APRO and TRIB Group! From August 24-27, 2026, in West Palm Beach, Florida, this is your chance to join the biggest event of the year. Connect with industry leaders, explore new opportunities, and be part of the excitement. Our teams are crafting an unforgettable event filled with learning, networking, buying, selling, and endless fun. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a game-changing experience!

Host Hotel: Hilton West Palm Beach

2026 Nationwide PrimeTime - Fall
2026-08-23 - 2026-08-26 | Music City Center, 201 Rep. John Lewis Way South, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Hosted for over 30 years and more than 60 events, PrimeTime, Nationwide Marketing Group’s biannual Member conference and tradeshow, is an event for Independent retailers looking to improve their results quickly. Featuring more than 85 hours of forward-thinking education, millions in Cash Back for product purchases at the show, networking and roundtables with peers from across North America, PrimeTime is an efficient way to fast-track your success.

2026 AVB BrandSource Convention
2026-08-09 - 2026-08-12 | The Venetian, 3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV, 89109, United States
The AVB BrandSource Annual Convention is a premier event for appliance, electronics, and home furnishings retailers. It offers valuable networking, educational sessions, product showcases, and innovative retail solutions to help businesses thrive. The convention brings together industry leaders and provides tools to drive growth and success in the competitive retail landscape.

2026 Las Vegas Summer Market
2026-07-26 - 2026-07-30 | Las Vegas Furniture Market, 475 S. Grand Central Pkwy, Suite 1615, Las Vegas, NV, 89106, United States
Las Vegas Market is the premier furniture, home decor, and gift trade show on the West Coast, hosted at the World Market Center in Las Vegas. The event offers an extensive range of products from global exhibitors and provides industry professionals with opportunities to network, explore new trends, and discover the latest innovations in the market. Las Vegas Market is held twice a year, with its Winter Market occurring in January and Summer Market in July.

2026 VersiRent User Conference
2026-07-21 - 2026-07-22 | MSU Riley Center, 2200 5th St, Meridian, MS, 39301, United States
The VersiRent User Conference enables attendees to explore new capabilities you may not even realize are available in VersiRent. Their team will walk you through features designed to make your day-to-day operations smoother, smarter, and more efficient.
You’ll also have an opportunity to network with other companies in the RTO industry about how they’re leveraging VersiRent in creative and impactful ways. From workflow tips to real-world success stories, you’ll leave inspired with practical ideas you can bring back to your team.
These conferences are specifically designed for those who work with VersiRent on a daily basis – dealers and their key personnel.
For more information, contact Ginna Oksienik

LEAP Session 18
2026-07-14 14:00 - 15:00 | LEAP Program
Welcome to LEAP, an exciting leadership development program brought to you by APRO and TRIB Group. LEAP is designed to cultivate leadership skills within the RTO industry.

Each month, we’ll explore a new leadership topic through live Zoom sessions or in-person at Meeting of the Minds and RTO World. This program is open to both current and aspiring leaders within your company. While we encourage ongoing participation, each session is designed to stand alone, allowing you to join at any time without missing a step in your development. Plus, all sessions will be recorded and available for download, so your team can learn at their convenience.

Participants will have the opportunity to earn class credits by attending or watching the training sessions and completing a brief survey. Accumulating credits will lead to various certification levels, with potential rewards to be announced.

Speaker: Erica StCharles, Arona Corporation dba Arona Home Essentials

Topic: To Be Announced

Zoom Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89024805687

Request Access to LEAP:
Request access here

Access LEAP Portal:
Access the portal here

LEAP Session 17
2026-06-09 14:00 - 15:00 | LEAP Program
Welcome to LEAP, an exciting leadership development program brought to you by APRO and TRIB Group. LEAP is designed to cultivate leadership skills within the RTO industry.

Each month, we’ll explore a new leadership topic through live Zoom sessions or in-person at Meeting of the Minds and RTO World. This program is open to both current and aspiring leaders within your company. While we encourage ongoing participation, each session is designed to stand alone, allowing you to join at any time without missing a step in your development. Plus, all sessions will be recorded and available for download, so your team can learn at their convenience.

Participants will have the opportunity to earn class credits by attending or watching the training sessions and completing a brief survey. Accumulating credits will lead to various certification levels, with potential rewards to be announced.

Speaker: Mike Tissot, Countryside Rentals Inc. dba Rent-2-Own

Topic: To Be Announced

Zoom Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89024805687

Request Access to LEAP:
Request access here

Access LEAP Portal:
Access the portal here

2026 Heartland of America Regional Tradeshow
2026-06-09 - 2026-06-11 | The Lodge of Four Seasons, 315 Four Seasons Drive, Lake Ozark, MO, 65049, United States
The annual Heartland of America Tradeshow and Seminar, hosted by the Missouri Rental Dealers Association (MRDA), brings together rent-to-own professionals from across the region for a day of networking, educational seminars, and industry insights.

Attendees enjoy a tradeshow featuring key vendors and a variety of sessions designed to enhance business growth and collaboration within the rent-to-own community. This event has become a cornerstone for fostering connections and sharing knowledge in the Heartland region.

LEAP Session 16
2026-05-12 14:00 - 15:00 | LEAP Program

2026 Florida Rental Dealers Association (FRDA) Annual Meeting
2026-05-11 - 2026-05-12 | Hotel Haya, 1412 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL, 33605, United States
We invite you to join fellow Florida rental dealers for some great networking and big ideas! Join us on May 11-12, 2026, at the Hotel Haya for a welcome social, vendor show, and annual meeting! Get ready for an exciting meeting with new ideas, vendor presentations, and a chance to reconnect with colleagues!

Preliminary Schedule:

Monday, May 11th: Arrival Day & Welcome Reception
Tuesday, May 12th: Membership Meeting & Vendor Fair

For more information, please contact Chris Kale, Jr.

2026 TRIB Retreat
2026-05-03 - 2026-05-07 | Southernmost Beach Resort, 1319 Duval St, Key West, FL, 33040, United States
Relax resort-side on white sand beaches or one of many heated pools. Set out on a Key West adventure along America’s only living reef system. Discover the heart of this unique island paradise from Historic Old Town… there are plenty of things to do here and miles to explore!

Place your deposit today to reserve a suite within the Member Retreat Block. Southernmost Beach Resort offers fantastic amenities including:

Pool and Beach Access
Fitness Center
Concierge Services
Amazing Beach View
Exquisite Dining
Spa and Wellness

TRIB Group members interested in attending the 2026 TRIB Retreat in Key West must email Jenny Hartwig to make their reservations.

2026 Highpoint Furniture Market - Spring
2026-04-25 - 2026-04-29 | High Point Market Authority, 164 South Main Street, Suite 700, High Point, NC, 27260, United States
High Point Market is the ultimate destination for all things design, offering endless product options and unexpected moments of joy. It’s not just about products, but also about the experience, with exciting events and opportunities that spark inspiration. Market week feels like a homecoming for industry professionals, making it easy to connect and build relationships. Whether you’re looking to discover new trends or transform your career, the opportunities here are life-changing.

2026 Rent One & RNR Midwest Annual Meeting
2026-04-17 - 2026-04-19 | Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina, 1881 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33316, United States
Held each spring, Rent One & RNR Midwest’s Annual Meeting & Vendor Showcase brings together company leadership, team members, and industry partners for two days of connection, recognition, and collaboration. The event celebrates the past year’s achievements while setting the course for continued success in the year ahead. Attendees can expect a dynamic agenda featuring a general session, educational breakout sessions, an awards dinner, and a vendor showcase exclusive to event sponsors. The showcase offers valuable opportunities to network with the management team and corporate office staff.

For general information, contact Rent One Chief Operating Officer Kelly Martin at kellymartin@shoprentone.com.
Vendors, contact Rent One Vice President of Sales and Marketing Mark Williams at mwilliams@shoprentone.com.

2026 APRO Legislative Conference
2026-04-15 - 2026-04-17 | The Royal Sonesta Washington, 20 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20001, United States
Each spring, APRO members from across the country head to Washington, D.C., to share the rent-to-own story with federal lawmakers during the APRO Legislative Conference.
This three-day experience brings together RTO professionals from across the country to meet face-to-face with U.S. senators, representatives, and legislative staff. It’s a chance to tell your RTO story and build meaningful relationships with policymakers who shape the future of our business.
Whether you’re an experienced advocate or new to this kind of outreach, the Legislative Conference is designed to empower you. APRO provides tools, training, and team-based support so that every attendee can confidently and clearly communicate the value of rent-to-own – not just for businesses, but for employees, customers, and communities.

LEAP Session 15
2026-04-14 14:00 - 15:00 | LEAP Program
Welcome to LEAP, an exciting leadership development program brought to you by APRO and TRIB Group. LEAP is designed to cultivate leadership skills within the RTO industry.

Each month, we’ll explore a new leadership topic through live Zoom sessions or in-person at Meeting of the Minds and RTO World. This program is open to both current and aspiring leaders within your company. While we encourage ongoing participation, each session is designed to stand alone, allowing you to join at any time without missing a step in your development. Plus, all sessions will be recorded and available for download, so your team can learn at their convenience.

Participants will have the opportunity to earn class credits by attending or watching the training sessions and completing a brief survey. Accumulating credits will lead to various certification levels, with potential rewards to be announced.

Speaker: Will Jackson, RNR Tire Express

Topic: To Be Announced

Zoom Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89024805687

Request Access to LEAP:
Request access here

Access LEAP Portal:
Access the portal here

2026 Nationwide PrimeTime - Spring
2026-03-21 - 2026-03-24 | Broward County Convention Center, 1950 Eisenhower Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33316, United States

2026 AVB BrandSource Summit
2026-03-08 - 2026-03-11 | Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN, 37214, United States
The AVB BrandSource Annual Summit is a key event for appliance, electronics, and home furnishings retailers, featuring insightful presentations, expert-led sessions, networking opportunities, and vendor expos. It helps industry professionals stay ahead of trends and grow their businesses. The Summit fosters innovation and offers tools for retail success.

2026 TRIB Group Meeting of the Minds
2026-03-03 - 2026-03-07 | Paris Las Vegas, 3655 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV, 89109, United States
Meeting of the Minds brings together nearly 100 of the largest Rent to Own Industry manufacturers & distributors along with hundreds of independent and franchisee store owners and operators for entertaining experiences, invaluable networking and deeply-discounted show special buying opportunities. With registration incentives, show-special pricing and bonus buy purchase vouchers, TRIB Group members find unmatched benefits in attending this signature event and connecting with industry partners representing all categories of products and services.

2026 National TV Sales & Rental Annual Awards Banquet
2026-02-21 | Lebanon, Missouri, Lebanon, MO, United States
National TV Sales & Rental hosts its annual company Awards Banquet each year in Lebanon, Missouri, bringing together employees, leadership, and guests to celebrate the company’s achievements and honor outstanding team members. The event typically includes a shared dinner, entertainment or team activities, and a formal awards presentation recognizing top performers and contributions across roles and locations. The banquet fosters camaraderie, highlights success, and reinforces National TV’s appreciation for its people and their hard work.

2026 Webinar – The RTO Revolution
2026-02-19 14:00 - 15:00 | APRO Webinar
Join co-authors Charles Smitherman and Ryan Krass for a fireside chat introducing The RTO Revolution—a sweeping history of the rent-to-own industry and a case for why its story matters now. Written to preserve the industry’s institutional memory, challenge narratives, and give dealers, advocates, and policymakers a common factual foundation, the book traces how RTO evolved, why it endures, and where it is evolving next.

In this conversation, the authors will discuss why they took on the project, the voices and stories that shaped it, and how they hope the book will be used—as an advocacy tool, an educational resource, a point of pride for those in the business, and a way to ensure the industry defines itself before others do.

Please join us on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 2:00–3:00 PM (Central Time) for this insightful discussion about the past, present, and future of an industry worth understanding and fighting for.

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82007643854

Not a member yet? You’re missing out on exclusive resources, free monthly webinars, and more! Learn about our member benefits and join now to unlock everything APRO has to offer!

2026 Rent-2-Own Annual Award Meeting
2026-02-11 | Wilmington, Ohio, Wilmington, OH, United States
Rent-2-Own’s annual company meeting brings together the entire team for a day dedicated to celebrating the company’s successes, strengthening connections, and recognizing outstanding employee achievements. All stores close so employees can join colleagues for shared meals, fun activities, games, and prize drawings. The event culminates with an awards ceremony honoring top performers across departments, special recognitions, and milestone achievements that reflect the company’s commitment to excellence and teamwork.

LEAP Session 13 | The Leadership Journey: Becoming an Essential Leader
2026-02-10 14:00 - 15:00 | APRO Webinar
Title: The Leadership Journey: Becoming an Essential Leader

Most RTO leaders became managers because they were great at the work — not because they studied leadership. You were promoted for being excellent at collections, sales, or operations. But leading people requires entirely different skills.

In this session, APRO CEO Charles Smitherman shares an original framework for understanding leadership development: the three levels of useful, important, and essential leadership. Grounded in the Platinum Rule and ethical decision-making, this framework helps you assess where you currently operate, understand what your team needs to feel truly seen and valued, and discover practical disciplines to move from reactive management to purposeful leadership.

Through examples from Ted Lasso to real RTO challenges, you’ll gain tools to become the kind of leader people choose to follow — and remember. Whether you manage one store or twenty, this session will change how you think about leadership.

Speaker: Charles Smitherman, PhD, JD, MSt, CAE

CEO, Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) since 2023
Holds PhD in International Law MSt from Oxford University; JD from the University of Georgia; Certified Association Executive (CAE)
Leading APRO’s focus on dignity-centered commerce and ethical leadership in the RTO industry
Author of forthcoming book The RTO Revolution (with Ryan Krass), The RTO Insight Review Blog, and multiple articles on consumer access and economic inclusion
Developed the “Three Levels” framework for leadership development based on years of research and practical application
Ultra-runner and open water swimmer who believes leadership is about seeing people clearly and helping them become their best selves
Aspiring Level 3 leader and fellow traveler alongside you in this journey

Zoom Link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89024805687

Request Access to LEAP:
Request access here

Access LEAP Portal:
Access the portal here

2026 RNR Franchise Conference
2026-01-31 - 2026-02-03 | Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, 1001 W Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL, 32830, United States
The 2026 RNR Franchise Conference will be held in Orlando, FL at the Disney Coronado Springs Resort. Owners, Operators, Executive Team Members, and Managers will gather to share ideas, participate in breakout sessions, and have a good time. Please reach out to Tracy Cintron for more information.

2026 Las Vegas Winter Market
2026-01-25 - 2026-01-29 | Las Vegas Furniture Market, 475 S. Grand Central Pkwy, Suite 1615, Las Vegas, NV, 89106, United States

2026 TRIB Group Think Tank
2026-01-24 - 2026-01-26 | Las Vegas Furniture Market, 475 S. Grand Central Pkwy, Suite 1615, Las Vegas, NV, 89106, United States
TRIB Group is excited to offer their members a chance to return to the Las Vegas furniture market for their Think Tank!

Each day, they will have an open networking and discussion during breakfast about our furniture business with vendors, as well as other topics of choice. Visit to the furniture market, new product previews, and special buys will be included as well.

Don’t Delay: DEADLINE FOR HOTEL PROMOTION: Book BEFORE Friday, December 21, 2025. Check out the great options available within their extended TRIB Group hotel block & rates offered this year! Also, check out their preliminary schedule linked here.

NOTE: You MUST book your hotel FIRST, as you need your confirmation information in order to complete Think Tank registration. Read the Hotel Promotion Guidelines posted here for additional information & eligibility details.

2026 Webinar – The Don'ts: What Not to Do
2026-01-22 14:00 - 15:00 | APRO Webinar
Advice on what to do seems endless. With New Year’s resolutions galore, sometimes the most important thing is to identify what not to do.

In this session, Impact RTO Holdings President Paul Metivier draws on his quarter-century of industry experience to explore common pain points he and his company have faced, how to avoid them, and how to respond when they arise. Blending real-world stories with insights from influential books, Paul offers valuable lessons to help attendees lead more productive stores, territories, companies, and personal lives.

Speaker Bio:
With more than 24 years of experience in the rent-to-own industry, Paul Metivier has built his career from the ground up – beginning at Rent-A-Center in 2001 and rising to his current role as President of Impact RTO Holdings. A respected leader and innovator, Paul served as President of the Florida Rental Dealers Association and is a two-time recipient of the Rent-A-Center Franchise of the Year award, as well as a nine-time top-ten finalist.

Paul also led Rent-A-Center’s first large-scale acquisition of corporate stores – a pioneering effort that paved the way for future franchisees. Outside of work, he is a proud husband and father of identical twin boys. He enjoys traveling, watching sports, gardening, and spending time outdoors.

Please join us on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 2:00–3:00 PM (Central Time).

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89024805687

Not a member yet? You’re missing out on exclusive resources, free monthly webinars, and more! Learn about our member benefits and join now to unlock everything APRO has to offer!

2026 The Premier Companies Celebration
2026-01-12 - 2026-01-15 | Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Golf & Spa Resort, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
The Premier Companies Celebration is an exclusive post-convention getaway designed for franchisees and corporate staff to come together in a stunning tropical setting and honor the successes of 2025. Held January 12–15, 2026, at the luxurious Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, this special gathering offers the perfect blend of celebration, connection, and relaxation. Attendees will have the opportunity to reflect on the year’s accomplishments, strengthen relationships with fellow franchisees, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, warm climate, and vibrant culture of Cabo.

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2026 The Premier Companies National Convention
2026-01-10 - 2026-01-11 | Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 555 S. Alamo St., San Antonio, TX, 78205, United States
We’re excited to invite you back to The Premier Companies’ Annual Convention, and to a new venue, in San Antonio on January 10-11! It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase your products and services to our franchisees, partners, and attendees.

Our Vendor Show is always a highlight, and we’d love for you to join us again as an exhibitor. We also have sponsorship opportunities available to give your brand even more visibility during the event.

If you’re interested in exhibiting or learning more about sponsorship, please reach out to Nancy Price, Director of Marketing. 703.909.1762 or nancyprice@premierrents.com

We’d love to have you on board for another successful convention!

LEAP Session 11: Easy Tips to Finish Strong in 2025
2025-12-09 14:00 - 15:00 | LEAP Program
Welcome to LEAP, an exciting leadership development program brought to you by APRO and TRIB Group. LEAP is designed to cultivate leadership skills within the RTO industry.

Each month, we’ll explore a new leadership topic through live Zoom sessions or in-person at Meeting of the Minds and RTO World. This program is open to both current and aspiring leaders within your company. While we encourage ongoing participation, each session is designed to stand alone, allowing you to join at any time without missing a step in your development. Plus, all sessions will be recorded and available for download, so your team can learn at their convenience.

Participants will have the opportunity to earn class credits by attending or watching the training sessions and completing a brief survey. Accumulating credits will lead to various certification levels, with potential rewards to be announced.

Speaker: Dan Fisher, Blue Ocean Brands, LLC dba Majik Rent to Own

Topic: Don’t just coast into the new year – finish strong! In this quick, 30-minute session, Dan Fisher shares straightforward strategies to improve collections, control inventory, and drive year-end sales. These easy, actionable tips will help your team close 2025 with confidence and momentum.

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89024805687

Request Access to LEAP: Request access here

Access LEAP Portal: Access the portal here
