Our wheel rental business grew faster than our traditional RTO business. People are excited about fixing up their cars and it's a trend that's only going to grow.
Dave, Deignan, ColorTyme/RimTyme Franchisee

David Deignan is new to the ColorTyme system, but 25 years of experience, including executive level positions with Magic Rent-to-Own and Aaron Rents, Inc. (NYSE:RNT), has given him the know-how and expertise to run successful RTO franchises. Deignan recently completed the conversion of his Macon, Georgia-based Magic Rent-to-Own store to a ColorTyme store and his Magic Wheel and Tire store has become RimTyme. He has also opened an additional RimTyme location in Warner-Robbins, Georgia.

"David's background and expertise in RTO, particularly with custom wheel rentals is exactly what we're looking for as we grow RimTyme," said ColorTyme CEO Bob Bloom. "He will be a valuable addition to the ColorTyme family and we're pleased to have him on board."

ColorTyme recently announced a major expansion of its custom wheel rental division that will include the opening of six to ten corporate-owned RimTyme stores in 2008 as well as several store conversions and new franchise locations. Deignan's stores are among the first to be established.

Deignan shares business responsibilities of his three stores with his wife, Debbie, his son Michael and his son-in-law Pete Green. He said having a family-run business is integral to his success as a rent-to-own franchisee.

"I've seen so many franchise families work together and do well," Deignan explained. "I got into this business because I wanted that same experience for my family. We are truly a hometown, family-based business. That's ColorTyme's approach and that's what is personally important to me."

Deignan said when his family decided to expand they shopped around and found ColorTyme to be the best fit for their growing business.

"We've been very impressed with the support we've received as a new franchisee," he said. "I've been a part of other companies and ColorTyme has delivered far better than any of the others I've seen. And having the opportunity to expand with RimTyme made the prospect even more appealing."

The family opened their first RTO store four years ago and their first tire rental store two years ago. Deignan said they quickly learned the tire rental business would be a profitable investment.

"It grew faster than our traditional RTO business," he said. "People are excited about fixing up their cars and it's a trend that's only going to grow."

The 2008 ColorTyme National Convention kicks off tomorrow (Sunday, January 13th) in Frisco, Texas. 250 ColorTyme franchisees, store managers and vendors are expected to attend the event, scheduled for January 13-16 at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center in Frisco, Texas.

RTO Online will publish daily photo galleries, podcasts and interviews from the convention. Please check www.rtoonline.com for updates.

ColorTyme, the oldest franchised rent-to-own company in the United States, operates a total of 214 stores.