We want [rent to own dealers] to know we support them in what they do
Bill Meadors, Ashley Vice President Sales, Case Goods Division

photo rtoonline 3-20-05 left to right: Bailey Clark, 11, Construction Coordinator, Ashley. Angel Clark, Boss. Kent Clark, Ashley Business Development-Rental Division. Nick Clark, 13, Chief of Heavy Lifting, Ashley.

Ashley Furniture Industries is celebrating it's 60th birthday. The Arcadia Wisconsin based company was founded by Founded by Carlyle Weinberger in 1945 and is the largest supplier of upholstery and case goods to the rent to own industry.

Ashley is one of three Platinum Sponsors at this years TARA Convention and Buying Show in San Antonio, Texas.

Bill Meadors, Ashley Vice President Sales, Case Goods Division, sees the rent to own industry as a key part of his company's success. "We believe in our rental dealers," he said. "We want them to know we support them in what they do. Rent to own has been an important part of Ashley's growth over many decades."

"TARA is a very active association," said Kent Clark, Ashley Business Development-Rental Division (pictured above). "As a vendor, you get great exposure." Kent has been involved in the RTO industry since sometime before the 'big flood' and is a fixture at industry events. Kent brought plenty of help to San Antonio to insure the company's space setup went smoothly.

Kent's wife Angel and sons Nick (13), and Bailey (11), all pitched in to read instructions for dad and keep things moving. While Bailey enjoys tradeshows and is particularly fond of Ashley's "shiny trucks", brother Nick prefers school. "Lunch and recess are better," he said. The Clarks are expecting their third child.