With the resignation of Rent a Center and Rent Way from the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO), Aaron Rents is now the national trade associations largest member.

Ken Butler, President of Aaron Rents Sales and Lease Ownership Division said the resignations were shocking. "It's pretty shocking both of them would pull out at the same time," said Butler. "I'm surprised they would do that. It's not good for APRO and not good for the industry."

Butler said he has not been contacted by anyone in APRO and is unaware of the reasons for Rent a Center and Rent Way's simultaneous resignation. He also stated that Aaron Rents has no plans to leave the Association. Butler still sees value for large players in APRO membership. "We use the Association for networking and we would certainly like to see the federal legislation pass," he said.

Aaron Rents re-joined APRO in November of 2003 after a five year absence. The company resigned from APRO in 1998 over differences in the association's goals. (See Story)