Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) Market Research Report
Background
The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) is the sole national trade association representing the rent-to-own (RTO) industry in the United States. Established in 1980, APRO advocates for and supports RTO businesses by providing essential resources, industry insights, and a robust community network. Through educational initiatives, legislative advocacy, and professional development opportunities, APRO aims to elevate the standards and success of the RTO sector, ensuring it continues to serve customers with integrity and excellence.
Mission: To promote the success of the rent-to-own industry.
Vision: To elevate the rent-to-own industry through advocacy and education to better serve customers.
Values:
- PRO Customers: Enhancing customers' lives by providing access to desired products through rental options.
- PRO Advocacy: Championing the benefits of rent-to-own for customers and communities.
- PRO Members: Addressing the current and future needs of members.
- PRO Dialogue: Facilitating industry-wide dialogue to represent a collective voice.
Key Strategic Focus
APRO's strategic focus centers on advocating for the RTO industry's interests at various governmental levels, providing educational resources, and fostering a community among RTO businesses. The organization emphasizes:
- Advocacy: Representing the RTO industry before the U.S. Congress, Internal Revenue Service, state legislatures, and the public.
- Education: Offering programs and resources to enhance the professionalism and success of RTO businesses.
- Community Building: Creating networking opportunities through events and publications to strengthen the RTO community.
Financials and Funding
As a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization, APRO's financials are publicly accessible. In the fiscal year ending November 2022, APRO reported:
- Revenue: $2,127,726
- Expenses: $1,917,204
- Net Assets: $1,753,922
The primary revenue sources include program services, contributing approximately 96.6% of total revenue. Notable expenses encompass executive compensation and other salaries and wages.
Leadership Team
APRO is governed by an 18-member elected board of directors, with 16 directors serving staggered two-year terms and two directors from the vendor community elected by the APRO Vendor Advisory Committee. The staff leadership includes:
- Charles Smitherman: Chief Executive Officer
- Jen Troke: Vice President, Membership
- Tulisha Wendele: Director of Finance
- Lisa Krabbenhoft: Director of Events
- Amberlee Maya: Director of Marketing & Communications
- Gerardo Colegio: Web Membership Coordinator
The board and staff work collaboratively to advance APRO's mission and support the RTO industry.
Competitor Profile
While APRO is unique in its role as the national trade association for the RTO industry, other organizations and entities operate within related sectors:
- RTO Online: Provides news and resources for the rent-to-own industry.
- National Association of Development Companies: Focuses on economic development and financing.
- The National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds: Represents the interests of RV parks and campgrounds.
- American Media Council: Engages in media-related advocacy and initiatives.
- National Association of Professional Employer Organizations: Represents professional employer organizations.
These organizations, while not direct competitors, operate in overlapping domains and may offer complementary services or advocacy efforts.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
APRO collaborates with various stakeholders, including RTO businesses, vendors, and policymakers, to strengthen the industry's position and promote best practices. These partnerships are instrumental in advancing APRO's advocacy and educational initiatives.
Operational Insights
APRO's operations are strategically designed to support the RTO industry through:
- Advocacy Efforts: Engaging with legislative bodies to influence policies favorable to the RTO sector.
- Educational Programs: Providing resources and training to enhance industry standards and professionalism.
- Networking Opportunities: Organizing events and platforms for members to connect and share insights.
These operational strategies position APRO as a pivotal entity in promoting the growth and integrity of the RTO industry.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, APRO aims to:
- Expand Advocacy Efforts: Strengthen engagement with policymakers to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the RTO industry.
- Enhance Educational Resources: Develop new programs and materials to support member businesses in adapting to industry changes.
- Foster Industry Innovation: Encourage the adoption of new technologies and practices to improve customer experiences and operational efficiency.
By leveraging its established strengths, APRO is well-positioned to guide the RTO industry toward sustained growth and success.
Contact Information
- Website: www.rtohq.org
- Headquarters: Austin, TX
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