APRO unveils consumer best practices guidelines at RTO World 2026
APRO said the new guidance is designed to promote clearer communication, responsible business practices and better consumer understanding.
APRO said it unveiled new Consumer Best Practices Guidelines at RTO World 2026 in West Palm Beach, offering voluntary guidance for rent-to-own businesses on transparency, consumer protection and compliance.
The organization said the guidelines are intended to standardize how member businesses communicate with customers and handle day-to-day practices. APRO described the release as part of its effort to support accountability and ethical business conduct in the rent-to-own industry.
According to APRO, the guidelines set out general principles intended to encourage consistent business practices, support compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and help members communicate more clearly with consumers. The group also said the guidance is meant to support consumer understanding and confidence.
RTO World 2026 ran Aug. 24-27 in West Palm Beach. APRO said the announcement came during the event, which brings together rent-to-own professionals from across the country.
Charles Smitherman, APRO’s CEO, said consumers deserve “clear information and confidence in the businesses they choose.” He said the new guidelines build on APRO’s “longstanding commitment” to transparency, accountability and ethical business practices.
APRO said it also provides member businesses with a Code of Ethics, educational programming and professional development opportunities. The organization said its Legal Summit is in its third year.
The group said it is the only national trade association representing the rent-to-own industry, was established in 1980 and has 330 member brands. APRO also said it was named a 2026 Power of Associations Awards recipient by ASAE and a 2026 Association Impact Award recipient by TSAE.
Editorial note: This article was prepared with AI assistance and includes source attribution for reader review.
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