Rent-A-Center, Inc. Overview
Pro stress-test →Rent-A-Center (now operating as Upbound Group, Inc.) is a lease-to-own provider with over 1,900 locations serving roughly 1.5 million customers annually since its founding in 1973. The company provides access to high-quality, durable products including furniture, appliances, consumer electronics, and computers via flexible lease-purchase agreements with no long-term debt obligation.
Strategic Profile
Pro stress-test →Strategic initiatives include the Acima acquisition (2021) and a 2023 rebrand to Upbound Group, combining technology-driven lease-to-own solutions with core values of respect, empowerment, simplicity, collaboration, and community impact. The company operates as a cash flow machine, targeting underserved consumers seeking flexible financing alternatives to traditional retail credit.
Competitive Landscape
Pro stress-test →The lease-to-own and rental furniture sector includes Aaron's (furniture and electronics rental), Upstart Holdings (digital lending), and traditional retailers with in-store financing programs. Rent-A-Center competes on accessibility for credit-constrained consumers, omnichannel reach, and flexible payment options rather than product selection or brand prestige.
Industry Context
Rent-A-Center, Inc. operates in Lease-to-own retail.
Key facts
Founded: 1973 · Headquarters: Plano, US · Employees: Approx. 1,900 store locations · Revenue: $4.24B · Market cap: $1.11B