UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-K

 

 

Commission File No. 0-25370

 

 

 

 

Rent-A-Center, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

5501 Headquarters Drive
Plano, Texas 75024
(Address, including zip code of registrant’s
principal executive offices)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 972-801-1100

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

 

 

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes þ     No o

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.  Yes o     No þ

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes þ     No o

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes o     No þ

 

 

Documents incorporated by reference:

 

Portions of the definitive proxy statement relating to the 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Rent-A-Center, Inc. are incorporated by reference into Part III of this report.

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

Overview

 

Unless the context indicates otherwise, references to “we,” “us” and “our” refers to the consolidated business operations of Rent-A-Center, Inc., the parent, and all of its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

 

We are the largest operator in the United States rent-to-own industry with an approximate 38% market share based on store count. At December 31, 2008, we operated 3,037 company-owned stores nationwide and in Canada and Puerto Rico, including 31 retail installment sales stores under the names “Get It Now” and “Home Choice” and eight rent-to-own stores located in Canada operating under the name “Rent-A-Centre.” Our subsidiary, ColorTyme, is a national franchisor of rent-to-own stores. At December 31, 2008, ColorTyme had 222 franchised rent-to-own stores in 34 states. These franchise stores represent an additional 3% market share based on store count.

 

Our stores generally offer high quality, durable products such as major consumer electronics, appliances, computers and furniture and accessories under flexible rental purchase agreements that generally allow the customer to obtain ownership of the merchandise at the conclusion of an agreed upon rental period. The rental purchase transaction is a flexible alternative for consumers to obtain the use and enjoyment of brand name merchandise without incurring debt. Key features of the rental purchase transaction include:

 

 

We offer well known brands such as Sony, Philips, LG, Hitachi, Toshiba and Mitsubishi home electronics, Whirlpool appliances, Toshiba, Sony, Hewlett-Packard and Dell computers and Ashley, England and Klaussner furniture. We also offer high levels of customer service, including repair, pickup and delivery, generally at no additional charge. Our customers benefit from the ability to return merchandise at any time without further obligation and make payments that build toward ownership. We estimate that approximately 75% of our business is from repeat customers.

 

We also offer financial services products, such as short term secured and unsecured loans, debit cards, check cashing, tax preparation and money transfer services, in some of our existing rent-to-own stores under the trade names “RAC Financial Services” and “Cash AdvantEdge.” As of December 31, 2008, we offered some or all of these financial services products in 351 Rent-A-Center store locations in 18 states.

 

We were incorporated in Delaware in 1986. Our principal executive offices are located at 5501 Headquarters Drive, Plano, Texas 75024. Our telephone number is (972) 801-1100 and our company website is www.rentacenter.com. We do not intend for information contained on our website to be part of this Form 10-K. We make available free of charge on or through our website our annual report on Form 10-K, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, our current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC. Additionally, we voluntarily will provide electronic or paper copies of our filings free of charge upon request.

Industry Overview

 

According to the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations, the rent-to-own industry in the United States and Canada consists of approximately 8,500 stores and serves approximately 3.0 million households. We estimate that the two largest rent-to-own industry participants account for approximately 4,800 of the total number of stores, and the majority of the remainder of the industry consists of operations with fewer than 50 stores. The rent-to-own industry is highly fragmented and has experienced significant consolidation. We believe this consolidation trend in the industry will continue, presenting opportunities for us to continue to acquire additional stores or customer accounts on favorable terms.

 

The rent-to-own industry serves a highly diverse customer base. According to the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations, approximately 73% of rent-to-own customers have household incomes between $15,000 and $50,000 per year. The rent-to-own industry serves a wide variety of customers by allowing them to obtain merchandise that they might otherwise be unable to obtain due to insufficient cash resources or a lack of access to credit. The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations also estimates that 95% of customers have high school diplomas. According to an April 2000 Federal Trade Commission study, 75% of rent-to-own customers were satisfied with their experience with rent-to-own transactions. The study noted that customers gave a wide variety of reasons for their satisfaction, including “the ability to obtain merchandise they otherwise could not; the low payments; the lack of a credit check; the convenience and flexibility of the transaction; the quality of the merchandise; the quality of the maintenance, delivery, and other services; the friendliness and flexibility of the store employees; and the lack of any problems or hassles.”

 

Historical Growth

 

From 1993 to 2006, we pursued an aggressive growth strategy in which we sought to acquire underperforming rent-to-own stores to which we could apply our operating model as well as open new stores. Since March 1993, our company-owned store base has grown from 27 to 3,037 at December 31, 2008, primarily through acquisitions, including the acquisition in November 2006 of Rent-Way, Inc. (“Rent-Way”), which operated 782 stores in 34 states. During this period, we acquired over 3,600 stores, including approximately 400 of our franchised stores. These acquisitions occurred in approximately 240 separate transactions, including ten transactions where we acquired in excess of 50 stores. In addition, we strategically opened or acquired stores near market areas served by existing stores (“cannibalized”) to enhance service levels, gain incremental sales and increase market penetration.

 

The following table summarizes the store growth activity over the last three fiscal years:

 

 

 

 

Store Consolidation.  We believe our aggressive store acquisition program and our planned cannibalization resulted in over penetration in some markets. We continually evaluate every market in which we operate by reviewing operating results, competitive positioning, and growth potential. As a result of such review in December 2007, we committed to a store consolidation plan pursuant to which we closed or merged 282 stores as of December 31, 2008.

Future Store Growth.  We continue to believe there are attractive opportunities to expand our presence in the rent-to-own industry both nationally and internationally. We plan to continue opening new stores in targeted markets and acquiring existing rent-to-own stores and store account portfolios. We will focus new market penetration in adjacent areas or regions that we believe are underserved by the rent-to-own industry. In addition, we intend to pursue our acquisition strategy of targeting under-performing and under-capitalized rent-to-own stores. We also intend to continue to critically evaluate the markets in which we operate and will close, sell or merge underperforming stores.

 

Competitive Strengths

 

We believe the following competitive strengths position us well for continued growth:

 

Geographic Footprint.  At December 31, 2008, we operated 3,037 stores nationwide and in Canada and Puerto Rico. In addition, our subsidiary, ColorTyme, franchised 222 stores in 34 states. We believe the number and location of our stores combined with the strength of our brand provides us with a unique platform from which to market additional products and services to our customer demographic. The following table shows the geographic distribution of our stores:

 

 

 

 

Management Expertise.  Our management team at both the corporate and operational levels is highly experienced and motivated. Our executive management team has extensive experience in the rent-to-own industry with over 100 combined years of service with us and has demonstrated the ability to grow our business through their operational leadership and strategic vision.

 

Financial Strength.  Historically, our operations have generated strong cash flow, averaging $210.2 million in operating cash flow per year since 1998. As a result, we have been able to invest in acquisitions and new business opportunities while maintaining a strong balance sheet.

 

Collections.  The breadth of our store locations also provides us with the operational infrastructure to support our collection efforts. The ability to timely and personally contact customers through our local field personnel is critical to our ability to collect payments or regain possession of rented merchandise. In addition, we believe we have developed lasting relationships with our customers, as well as obtained extensive knowledge of our targeted customer demographic, through our collection experience.

 

Integration Experience.  We have gained significant experience in the acquisition and integration of other rent-to-own operators and believe the fragmented nature of the rent-to-own industry will result in ongoing consolidation opportunities. Acquired stores benefit from our improved product mix, sophisticated management information system, purchasing power and administrative network.

 

Strategy

 

We intend to capitalize on our competitive strengths and continue to build our position as a leading provider of products and services to cash and credit constrained consumers by focusing our strategic efforts on the following:

 

 

Enhancing the Operations, Revenue and Profitability of Our Store Locations

 

We continually seek to improve store performance through strategies intended to produce gains in operating efficiency, revenue and profitability. For example, we continue to focus our operational personnel on prioritizing store profit growth, including increasing store revenue and managing store level operating expenses.

 

We believe we will achieve further gains in revenues and operating margins in both existing and newly acquired stores by continuing to:

 

 

Seeking Additional Distribution Channels for Our Products and Services

 

We believe there are opportunities for us to obtain new customers through sources other than our existing rent-to-own stores. Through agreements with other retailers, we intend to offer the rent-to-own transaction to consumers who do not qualify for financing from such retailer, offering the consumer the opportunity to obtain the merchandise they want or need. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in our efforts to expand our distribution channels by entering into such agreements with other retailers, or that such operations, should they be added, will prove to be profitable.

 

Leveraging our Financial Strength

 

We believe we can leverage our financial strength by investing significantly in people, processes and technology to reduce our cost infrastructure. We are focused on lowering operating expenses through our investments in centralized inventory purchasing, centralized procurement, and enhanced information management systems. We believe the creation of a centralized inventory purchasing system will allow us to better manage our inventory at the store level while expanding availability of the most popular products. The development of an on-line procurement tool and careful review of our processes has allowed us to reduce many of our store-level expenses. We believe our financial strength allows us to pursue these and other initiatives while also making strategic use of our cash to enhance our balance sheet.

 

Strengthening Customer Relationships through Community Involvement

 

We seek to further strengthen relationships with our customers through community involvement both at the local store level and as a company through corporate donations and initiatives. We encourage the management of each of our stores to involve themselves with their respective local communities. In addition, we participate in various programs, including the following:

 

 

Rent-A-Center Store Operations

 

Store Design

 

Our stores average approximately 4,700 square feet and are located primarily in strip centers. Because we utilize “just in time” inventory strategies, receiving merchandise shipments in relatively small quantities directly from vendors, we are able to dedicate approximately 75% of the store space to showroom floor, and also eliminate warehousing costs.

 

Product Selection

 

Our stores generally offer merchandise from four basic product categories: major consumer electronics, appliances, computers and furniture and accessories. Although we seek to maintain sufficient inventory in our stores to offer customers a wide variety of models, styles and brands, we generally limit inventory to prescribed levels to maintain strict inventory controls. We seek to provide a wide variety of high quality merchandise to our customers, and we emphasize high-end products from name-brand manufacturers. For the year ended December 31, 2008, consumer electronic products accounted for approximately 35% of our store rental revenue, furniture and accessories for 33% and appliances and computers for 16% each. Customers may request either new merchandise or previously rented merchandise. Previously rented merchandise is generally offered at the same weekly or monthly rental rate as is offered for new merchandise, but with an opportunity to obtain ownership of the merchandise after fewer rental payments.

 

Major consumer electronic products offered by our stores include high definition televisions, home theatre systems, video game consoles and stereos from top name-brand manufacturers such as Sony, Nintendo, Philips, LG, Hitachi, Toshiba and Mitsubishi. We offer major appliances manufactured by Whirlpool, including refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, freezers and ranges. We offer desktop and laptop computers from Toshiba, Sony, Hewlett Packard and Dell. We offer a variety of furniture products, including dining room, living room and bedroom furniture featuring a number of styles, materials and colors. We offer furniture made by Ashley, England and Klaussner and other top name-brand manufacturers. Accessories include pictures, lamps and tables and are typically rented as part of a package of items, such as a complete room of furniture. Showroom displays enable customers to visualize how the product will look in their homes and provide a showcase for accessories.

 

Rental Purchase Agreements

 

Our customers generally enter into weekly, semi-monthly or monthly rental purchase agreements, which renew automatically upon receipt of each payment. We retain title to the merchandise during the term of the rental purchase agreement. Ownership of the merchandise generally transfers to the customer if the customer has continuously renewed the rental purchase agreement for a period of seven to 30 months, depending upon the product type, or exercises a specified early purchase option. We do not conduct a formal credit investigation of each customer. We do require a potential customer to provide store management with sufficient personal information to allow us to verify their residence and sources of income. References listed by the customer are also contacted to verify the information contained in the customer’s rental purchase order form. Rental payments are generally made in the store or by telephone. We accept cash and credit or debit cards. Approximately 86% of our agreements are on a weekly term. Depending on state regulatory requirements, we may charge for the reinstatement of terminated accounts or collect a delinquent account fee, and collect loss/damage waiver fees from customers desiring product protection in case of theft or certain natural disasters. These fees are standard in the industry and may be subject to government-specified limits. Please read the section entitled “— Government Regulation.”

 

Product Turnover

 

On average, a minimum rental term of 18 months is generally required to obtain ownership of new merchandise. Approximately 25% of our initial rental purchase agreements are taken to the full term of the agreement. The average total life for each product is approximately 20 months, which includes the initial rental period, all re-rental periods and idle time in our system. To cover the relatively high operating expenses generated by greater product turnover, rental purchase agreements require higher aggregate payments than are generally charged under other types of purchase plans, such as installment purchase or credit plans.

Customer Service

 

We generally offer same day or 24-hour delivery and installation of our merchandise at no additional cost to the customer. We provide any required service or repair without additional charge, except for damage in excess of normal wear and tear. Repair services are provided through our national network of 24 service centers, the cost of which may be reimbursed by the vendor if the item is still under factory warranty. If the product cannot be repaired at the customer’s residence, we provide a temporary replacement while the product is being repaired. Generally, the customer is fully liable for damage, loss or destruction of the merchandise, unless the customer purchases an optional loss/damage waiver covering the particular loss. Most of the products we offer are covered by a manufacturer’s warranty for varying periods which, subject to the terms of the warranty, is transferred to the customer in the event that the customer obtains ownership.

 

Collections

 

Store managers use our management information system to track collections on a daily basis. For fiscal years 2008, 2007, and 2006, the average week ending past due percentages were 6.38%, 6.43% and 6.58%, respectively. Our goal was to have no more than 5.99% of our rental agreements past due one day or more each Saturday evening in the three years. For the 2009 fiscal year, our goal remains the same at 5.99%. If a customer fails to make a rental payment when due, store personnel will attempt to contact the customer to obtain payment and reinstate the agreement, or will terminate the account and arrange to regain possession of the merchandise. We attempt to recover the rental items as soon as possible following termination or default of a rental purchase agreement, generally by the seventh day. Collection efforts are enhanced by the personal and job-related references required of customers, the personal nature of the relationships between store employees and customers and the fact that, following a period in which a customer is temporarily unable to make payments on a piece of rental merchandise and must return the merchandise, that customer generally may re-rent a piece of merchandise of similar type and age on the terms the customer enjoyed prior to that period.

 

Pursuant to the rental purchase agreements, customers who become delinquent in their rental payments and fail to return the rented merchandise are or may over time become liable for accrued rent through the date the merchandise is finally returned or the amount of the early purchase option or, if the merchandise is not returned before expiration of the original term of weeks or months to ownership under the rental purchase agreement, then the total balance of payments necessary to acquire ownership of the merchandise. If the customer does not return the merchandise or make payment, the remaining book value of the rental merchandise associated with delinquent accounts is generally charged off on or before the ninetieth day following the time the account became past due. Charge offs in our rental stores due to customer stolen merchandise, expressed as a percentage of rental store revenues, were approximately 2.5% in 2008, 2.8% in 2007 and 2.4% in 2006.

 

Management

 

We organize our network of stores geographically with multiple levels of management. At the individual store level, each store manager is responsible for customer and account relations, delivery and collection of merchandise, inventory management, staffing, training store personnel and certain marketing efforts. Two times each week, store management is required to count the store’s inventory on hand and compare the count to our accounting records, with the district manager performing a similar audit at least quarterly. In addition, our individual store managers track their daily store performance for revenue collected as compared to the projected performance of their store. Each store manager reports to a district manager within close proximity who typically oversees six to eight stores. Typically, a district manager focuses on developing the personnel in his or her district and ensuring all stores meet our quality, cleanliness and service standards. In addition, a district manager routinely audits numerous areas of the stores’ operations. A significant portion of a district manager’s and store manager’s compensation is dependent upon store revenues and profits.

 

At December 31, 2008, we had 483 district managers who, in turn, reported to 76 regional directors. Regional directors monitor the results of their entire region, with an emphasis on developing and supervising the district managers in their region. Similar to the district managers, regional directors are responsible for ascertaining whether stores are following the operational guidelines. The regional directors report to 10 division vice presidents

located throughout the country. The regional directors and division vice presidents receive a significant amount of their compensation based on the revenue and profitability of the stores under their management.

 

Our executive management team at the home office oversees field operations, with an overall strategic focus. The executive management team directs and coordinates advertising, purchasing, financial planning and controls, employee training, personnel matters, acquisitions and new store initiatives. The centralization and coordination of such operational matters allows our store managers to focus on individual store performance. A portion of our executive management compensation is determined by the profits generated by us.

 

Management Information Systems

 

Through a licensing agreement with High Touch, Inc., we utilize an integrated management information and control system. Each store is equipped with a computer system utilizing point of sale software developed by High Touch. This system tracks individual components of revenue, each item in idle and rented inventory, total items on rent, delinquent accounts, items in service and other account information. We electronically gather each day’s activity report, which provides our executive management with access to all operating and financial information concerning any of our stores, markets or regions and generates management reports on a daily, weekly, month-to-date and year-to-date basis for each store and for every rental purchase transaction. The system enables us to track all of our merchandise and rental purchase agreements, which often include more than one unit of merchandise. In addition, our bank reconciliation system performs a daily sweep of available funds from our stores’ depository accounts into our central operating account based on a formula from bank balances that is reconciled back to the balances reported by the stores. Our system also includes extensive management software, report-generating capabilities and a virtual private network. The virtual private network allows us to communicate with the stores more effectively and efficiently. Utilizing the management information system, our executive management, division vice presidents, regional directors, district managers and store managers closely monitor the productivity of stores under their supervision according to our prescribed guidelines.

 

The integration of our management information system, developed by High Touch, with our accounting system, developed by Lawson Software, Inc., facilitates the production of our internal financial statements. These financial statements are distributed monthly to all stores, markets, regions and our executive management team for their review.

 

Purchasing and Distribution

 

Our executive management determines the general product mix in our stores based on analyses of customer rental patterns and the introduction of new products on a test basis. Individual store managers are responsible for determining the particular product selection for their store from the list of products approved by executive management. Store and district managers make specific purchasing decisions for the stores, subject to review by executive management, on our online ordering system. Additionally, we have predetermined levels of inventory allowed in each store which restrict levels of merchandise that may be purchased. All merchandise is shipped by vendors directly to each store, where it is held for rental. We do not utilize any distribution centers. These practices allow us to retain tight control over our inventory and, along with our selection of products for which consistent historical demand has been shown, reduce the number of obsolete items in our stores. The stores also have online access to determine whether other stores in their market may have merchandise available. We are currently investing in new inventory management systems and processes to enhance further our inventory management.

 

We purchase the majority of our merchandise from manufacturers, who ship directly to each store. Our largest suppliers include Whirlpool and Ashley, who accounted for approximately 14.8% and 12.6%, respectively, of merchandise purchased in 2008. No other supplier accounted for more than 10% of merchandise purchased during this period. We do not generally enter into written contracts with our suppliers that obligate us to meet certain minimum purchasing levels. Although we expect to continue relationships with our existing suppliers, we believe there are numerous sources of products available, and we do not believe that the success of our operations is dependent on any one or more of our present suppliers.

Marketing

 

We promote the products and services in our stores through television and radio commercials, print advertisements, direct response and store signage, all of which are designed to increase our name recognition among our customers and potential customers. Our advertisements emphasize such features as product and name-brand selection, prompt delivery, price match, service at no extra cost, lifetime reinstatement and the absence of initial deposits, credit investigations or long-term obligations. In 2007, we began the “RAC Worry-Free Guarantee^tm” initiative to further highlight and promote these aspects of the rent-to-own transaction. In 2008, we introduced “Credit Free Life,” an integrated campaign utilizing TV, radio, newspaper and e-mail initiatives, as well as an information microsite, to explain how a rent-to-own transaction can help consumers meet their needs without incurring debt. We believe that as the Rent-A-Center name gains familiarity and national recognition through our advertising efforts, we will continue to educate our customers and potential customers about the rent-to-own alternative to merchandise purchases as well as solidify our reputation as a leading provider of high quality branded merchandise and services.

 

Advertising expense as a percentage of store revenue for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 was approximately 2.9%, 2.8% and 2.8%, respectively. As we obtain new stores in our existing market areas, the advertising expenses of each store in the market can generally be reduced by listing all stores in the same market-wide advertisement.

 

Competition

 

The rent-to-own industry is highly competitive. According to industry sources and our estimates, the two largest industry participants account for approximately 4,800 of the 8,500 rent-to-own stores in the United States and Canada. We are the largest operator in the rent-to-own industry with 3,037 stores and 222 franchised locations as of December 31, 2008. Our stores compete with other national and regional rent-to-own businesses, as well as with rental stores that do not offer their customers a purchase option. With respect to customers desiring to purchase merchandise for cash or on credit, we also compete with retail stores. Competition is based primarily on store location, product selection and availability, customer service and rental rates and terms.

 

Seasonality

 

Our revenue mix is moderately seasonal, with the first quarter of each fiscal year generally providing higher merchandise sales than any other quarter during a fiscal year, primarily related to federal income tax refunds. Generally, our customers will more frequently exercise their early purchase option on their existing rental purchase agreements or purchase pre-leased merchandise off the showroom floor during the first quarter of each fiscal year. We expect this trend to continue in future periods. Furthermore, we tend to experience slower growth in the number of rental purchase agreements on rent in the third quarter of each fiscal year when compared to other quarters throughout the year. As a result, we would expect revenues for the third quarter of each fiscal year to remain relatively flat with the prior quarter. We expect this trend to continue in future periods unless we add significantly to our store base during the third quarter of future fiscal years as a result of new store openings or opportunistic acquisitions.

 

Retail Store Operations

 

As of December 31, 2008, we operated 31 stores utilizing a retail model which generates installment credit sales through a retail sale transaction. Twenty-three of these stores operate under the name “Get It Now” and eight stores under the name “Home Choice.” Our retail stores are located in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

 

ColorTyme Operations

 

ColorTyme is our nationwide franchisor of rent-to-own stores. At December 31, 2008, ColorTyme franchised 222 stores in 34 states. These rent-to-own stores primarily offer high quality durable products such as home electronics, appliances, computers and furniture and accessories. During 2008, 15 new franchise locations were added, 17 were sold, of which 16 were sold to another Rent-A-Center subsidiary, and three stores closed.

All of the ColorTyme franchised stores use ColorTyme’s trade names, service marks, trademarks and logos. All stores operate under distinctive operating procedures and standards. ColorTyme’s primary source of revenue is the sale of rental merchandise to its franchisees who, in turn, offer the merchandise to the general public for rent or purchase under a rent-to-own program. As franchisor, ColorTyme receives royalties of 2.0% to 5.0% of the franchisees’ monthly gross revenue and, generally, an initial fee up to $20,000 per new location for existing franchisees and up to $25,000 per location for new franchisees.

 

The ColorTyme franchise agreement generally requires the franchised stores to utilize specific computer hardware and software for the purpose of recording rentals, sales and other record keeping and central functions. ColorTyme retains the right to retrieve data and information from the franchised stores’ computer systems. The franchise agreements also limit the ability of the franchisees to compete with other franchisees and provides us a right of first refusal to purchase the franchise location of a ColorTyme franchisee that wishes to exit the business.

 

The franchise agreement also requires the franchised stores to exclusively offer for rent or sale only those brands, types and models of products that ColorTyme has approved. The franchised stores are required to maintain an adequate mix of inventory that consists of approved products for rent as dictated by ColorTyme policy manuals. ColorTyme negotiates purchase arrangements with various suppliers it has approved. ColorTyme’s largest suppliers are Ashley and Whirlpool, which accounted for approximately 18.5% and 11.0% of merchandise purchased by ColorTyme in 2008, respectively.

 

ColorTyme franchisees may also offer financial services, such as short term secured and unsecured loans, in addition to traditional rent-to-own products. In addition, some of ColorTyme’s franchised stores offer custom rims and tires for sale or rental under the trade names “RimTyme” or “ColorTyme Custom Wheels.” As of December 31, 2008, 42 ColorTyme stores operated by 17 separate franchisees offered financial services. Twelve ColorTyme stores operated by four separate franchisees offered tires and rims exclusively.

 

ColorTyme is a party to an agreement with Wells Fargo Foothill, Inc. (“Wells Fargo”), who provides $35.0 million in aggregate financing to qualifying franchisees of ColorTyme generally up to five times their average monthly revenues. Under the Wells Fargo agreement, upon an event of default by the franchisee under agreements governing this financing and upon the occurrence of certain other events, Wells Fargo can assign the loans and the collateral securing such loans to ColorTyme, with ColorTyme paying the outstanding debt to Wells Fargo and then succeeding to the rights of Wells Fargo under the debt agreements, including the right to foreclose on the collateral. The Wells Fargo agreement expires on September 30, 2010. An additional $20.0 million of financing is provided by Texas Capital Bank, National Association (“Texas Capital Bank”) under an agreement similar to the Wells Fargo financing. Rent-A-Center East, Inc., a subsidiary of Rent-A-Center, guarantees the obligations of ColorTyme under each of these agreements, excluding the effects of any amounts that could be recovered under collateralization provisions, up to a maximum amount of $55.0 million, of which $24.5 million was outstanding as of December 31, 2008.

 

ColorTyme has established a national advertising fund for the franchised stores, whereby ColorTyme has the right to collect up to 3% of the monthly gross revenue from each franchisee as contributions to the fund. Currently, ColorTyme has set the monthly franchisee contribution at $250 per store per month. ColorTyme directs the advertising programs of the fund, generally consisting of advertising in print, television and radio. ColorTyme also has the right to require franchisees to expend 3% of their monthly gross revenue on local advertising.

 

ColorTyme licenses the use of its trademarks and servicemarks to its franchisees under the franchise agreement. ColorTyme owns various trademarks and servicemarks, including ColorTyme^®, RimTyme^®, and Your Hometown ColorTyme^®, that are used in connection with its operations and have been registered with the United States Patent and Trademark office. The duration of these marks is unlimited, subject to periodic renewal and continued use.

 

Some of ColorTyme’s franchisees may be in locations where they directly compete with our company-owned stores, which could negatively impact the business, financial condition and operating results of our company-owned stores.

Financial Services Operations

 

We offer financial services products, such as short term secured and unsecured loans, debit cards, check cashing, tax preparation and money transfer services under the trade names “RAC Financial Services” and “Cash AdvantEdge” within certain of our existing Rent-A-Center store locations. As of December 31, 2008, we offered some or all of these financial services products in 351 Rent-A-Center store locations in 18 states. We intend to focus our resources on improving the operations in these existing financial services store locations and do not plan to add significantly to the number of Rent-A-Center store locations offering financial services at this time.

 

Stores offering financial services products in addition to traditional rent-to-own products generally require one to two additional employees. Management of our financial services business is integrated with our rent-to-own operations, with five financial services regional directors and 44 financial services district managers reporting to our division vice presidents.

 

Our financial services business operates in a highly competitive industry. Similar financial services products are offered by large regional or national entities, smaller independent outlets and pawnshops. Competitive factors include location, service, maximum loan amount, repayment options and fees.

 

Trademarks

 

We own various trademarks and servicemarks, including Rent-A-Center^®, that are used in connection with our operations and have been registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The duration of our trademarks is unlimited, subject to periodic renewal and continued use. In addition, we have obtained trademark registrations in Canada. We believe we hold the necessary rights for protection of the trademarks and servicemarks essential to our business. The products held for rent in our stores also bear trademarks and servicemarks held by their respective manufacturers.

 

Employees

 

As of February 18, 2009, we had approximately 17,900 employees, of whom 575 are assigned to our headquarters and the remainder of whom are directly involved in the management and operation of our stores and service centers. The employees of the ColorTyme franchisees are not employed by us. While we have experienced limited union activity in the past, none of our employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. We believe relationships with our employees are generally good.

 

Government Regulation

 

Rental Purchase Transactions

 

State Regulation

 

Currently, 47 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico have legislation regulating rental purchase transactions. We believe this existing legislation is generally favorable to us, as it defines and clarifies the various disclosures, procedures and transaction structures related to the rent-to-own business with which we must comply. With some variations in individual states, most related state legislation requires the lessor to make prescribed disclosures to customers about the rental purchase agreement and transaction, and provides time periods during which customers may reinstate agreements despite having failed to make a timely payment. Some state rental purchase laws prescribe grace periods for non-payment, prohibit or limit certain types of collection or other practices, and limit certain fees that may be charged. Nine states limit the total rental payments that can be charged. These limitations, however, generally do not become applicable unless the total rental payments required under an agreement exceed 2.0 times to 2.4 times the disclosed cash price or the retail value of the rental product.

 

Courts in each of Minnesota, which has a rental purchase statute, and Wisconsin and New Jersey, which do not have rental purchase statutes, have rendered decisions which classify rental purchase transactions as credit sales subject to consumer lending restrictions. Accordingly, in Minnesota and Wisconsin, we offer our customers an opportunity to purchase our merchandise through an installment sale transaction in our Get It Now and Home Choice stores. In New Jersey, we have modified our typical rental purchase agreements to provide disclosures, grace

periods, and pricing that we believe conform with the retail installment sales act. We operate 25 Get It Now and Home Choice stores in Minnesota and Wisconsin, and 44 Rent-A-Center stores in New Jersey.

 

North Carolina has no rental purchase legislation. However, the retail installment sales statute in North Carolina expressly provides that lease transactions which provide for more than a nominal purchase price at the end of the agreed rental period are not credit sales under the statute. We operate 133 stores in North Carolina.

 

Legislation has been introduced in New York from time to time that would significantly amend that state’s existing rental purchase statute. Recently introduced bills would impose significant pricing restrictions in New York and, if enacted as proposed, would have a material and adverse impact on our operations in New York. While predecessors of these bills have not received widespread support from members of either body of New York’s legislature, we are unable to assure you that such adverse legislation will not be enacted in the future. We operate 178 stores in New York.

 

Federal Legislation

 

To date, no comprehensive federal legislation has been enacted regulating or otherwise impacting the rental purchase transaction. We do, however, comply with the Federal Trade Commission recommendations for disclosure in rental purchase transactions.

 

From time to time, we have supported legislation introduced in Congress that would regulate the rental purchase transaction. While both beneficial and adverse legislation may be introduced in Congress in the future, any adverse federal legislation, if enacted, could have a material and adverse effect on us.

 

There can be no assurance as to whether new or revised rental purchase laws will be enacted or whether, if enacted, the laws would not have a material and adverse effect on us.

 

Financial Services

 

Our financial services business is subject to regulation and supervision primarily at the state and federal levels. We intend to offer our financial services products only in those jurisdictions with favorable regulatory environments.

 

In those jurisdictions where we make consumer loans directly to consumers (currently all states in which we offer financial services other than Texas), we are a licensed lender where required and are subject to various state regulations regarding the terms of our short term consumer loans and our policies, procedures and operations relating to those loans. Typically, state regulations limit the amount that we may lend to any consumer and, in some cases, the number of loans or transactions that we may make to any consumer at one time or in the course of a year. These state regulations also typically restrict the amount of finance or service charges or fees that we may assess in connection with any loan or transaction and may limit a customer’s ability to renew or “rollover” a loan.

 

We operate our financial services business in Texas under the Texas Credit Services Organization law which requires that we register as a Credit Services Organization (“CSO”) with the Texas Secretary of State, pay a registration fee and post surety bonds for each location. The CSO may, for a fee, help a consumer obtain an extension of credit from an independent third-party lender. We must also comply with various disclosure requirements, which include providing the consumer with a disclosure statement and contract that detail the services to be performed by the CSO and the total cost of those services along with various other items. Additionally, the CSO must give a consumer the right to cancel the credit services agreement without penalty within 3 days after the agreement is signed.

 

We are subject to regulation in several jurisdictions in which we operate that require the registration or licensing of check cashing companies or regulate the fees that check cashing companies may impose. In some of these jurisdictions, we may be required to file fee schedules with the state or conspicuously post the fees charged for cashing checks by each branch. In some cases, we are required to meet minimum bonding or capital requirements and are subject to record-keeping requirements. We are licensed in each of the states or jurisdictions in which a license is currently required for us to operate as a check cashing company and have filed our schedule of fees with

each of the states or other jurisdictions in which such a filing is required. To the extent those states have adopted ceilings on check cashing fees, the fees we currently charge are at or below the maximum ceiling.

 

In addition, our financial services business is subject to federal statutes and regulations such as the USA Patriot Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Truth in Lending Act, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the Anti-Money Laundering Act, and similar state laws.

 

In October 2006, U.S. federal legislation was enacted which limited our ability to offer financial services to active duty military personnel beginning in October 2007. There was no significant effect on our operations due to the restriction on lending to military personnel.

 

In 2008, legislation was enacted in Ohio which revised the statutes governing the short term consumer loan product we offered there at that time. The rate caps under the revised statute made it economically unfeasible to continue offering our loan products pursuant to that statute. As a result of this adverse legislation, we began offering alternative loan products and services in Ohio under other applicable provisions of Ohio law. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in offering these alternative products and services to consumers in Ohio, or whether such alternative products and services will prove to be economically feasible. We operate 51 stores in Ohio.

 

Legislative activity with respect to the financial services industry at the state and federal level continues to be significant. Both favorable and adverse legislation has been introduced in a number of states as well as in Congress. There can be no assurance as to whether new or revised financial services laws will be enacted or whether, if enacted, the laws would not have a material and adverse effect on us.

 

 

You should carefully consider the risks described below before making an investment decision. We believe these are the material risks currently facing our business. Our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected by these risks. The trading price of our common stock could decline due to any of these risks, and you may lose all or part of your investment. You should also refer to the other information included or incorporated by reference in this report, including our financial statements and related notes.

 

We may not be able to successfully increase revenue in our rent-to-own stores, which could cause our future earnings to grow more slowly or even decrease.

 

Our continued growth depends on our ability to increase sales in our existing rent-to-own stores. Our same store sales increased by 2.3%, 2.1% and 1.9% in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively. As a result of new store openings in existing markets and because mature stores will represent an increasing proportion of our store base over time, our same store revenues in future periods may be lower than historical levels. If we are unable to increase revenue in our rent-to-own stores, our earnings may grow more slowly or even decrease.

 

If we fail to effectively manage the growth, integration and profitability of our financial services business, we may not realize the economic benefit of our financial investment in such operations.

 

We face risks associated with integrating our financial services business into our existing operations, including further development of information technology and financial reporting systems. In addition, a newly opened financial services location generally does not attain positive cash flow during its first year of operations. Also, the financial services industry is highly competitive and regulated by federal, state and local laws.

 

Our expansion into the financial services business could place a significant demand on our management and our financial and operational resources. If we are unable to effectively implement our financial services business, we may not realize the operational benefits of our investment in the financial services business that we currently expect.

Rent-to-own transactions are regulated by law in most states. Any adverse change in these laws or the passage of adverse new laws could expose us to litigation or require us to alter our business practices.

 

As is the case with most businesses, we are subject to various governmental regulations, including specifically in our case, regulations regarding rent-to-own transactions. Currently, 47 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico have passed laws regulating rental purchase transactions and one additional state has a retail installment sales statute that excludes rent-to-own transactions from its coverage if certain criteria are met. These laws generally require certain contractual and advertising disclosures. They also provide varying levels of substantive consumer protection, such as requiring a grace period for late fees and contract reinstatement rights in the event the rental purchase agreement is terminated. The rental purchase laws of nine states limit the total amount of rentals that may be charged over the life of a rental purchase agreement. Several states also effectively regulate rental purchase transactions under other consumer protection statutes. We are currently subject to litigation alleging that we have violated some of these statutory provisions.

 

Although there is currently no comprehensive federal legislation regulating rental purchase transactions, adverse federal legislation may be enacted in the future. From time to time, legislation has been introduced in Congress seeking to regulate our business. In addition, various legislatures in the states where we currently do business may adopt new legislation or amend existing legislation that could require us to alter our business practices.

 

Financial services transactions are regulated by federal law as well as the laws of certain states. Any adverse changes in these laws or the passage of adverse new laws with respect to the financial services business could slow our growth opportunities, expose us to litigation or alter our business practices in a manner that we may deem to be unacceptable.

 

Our financial services business is subject to federal statutes and regulations such as the USA Patriot Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Truth in Lending Act, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the Anti-Money Laundering Act, and similar state laws. In addition, we are subject to various state regulations regarding the terms of our short term consumer loans and our policies, procedures and operations relating to those loans, including the fees we may charge, as well as fees we may charge in connection with our other financial services products. The failure to comply with such regulations may result in the imposition of material fines, penalties, or injunctions. Congress and/or the various legislatures in the states where we currently operate or intend to offer financial services products may adopt new legislation or amend existing legislation with respect to our financial services business that could require us to alter our business practices in a manner that we may deem to be unacceptable, which could slow our growth opportunities.

 

We may be subject to legal proceedings from time to time which seek material damages. The costs we incur in defending ourselves or associated with settling any of these proceedings, as well as a material final judgment or decree against us, could materially adversely affect our financial condition by requiring the payment of the settlement amount, a judgment or the posting of a bond.

 

In our history, we have defended class action lawsuits alleging various regulatory violations and have paid material amounts to settle such claims. We cannot assure you that we will not be the subject of similar lawsuits in the future. Significant settlement amounts or final judgments could materially and adversely affect our liquidity. The failure to pay any material judgment would be a default under our senior credit facilities and the indenture governing our outstanding subordinated notes.

 

Our debt agreements impose restrictions on us which may limit or prohibit us from engaging in certain transactions. If a default were to occur, our lenders could accelerate the amounts of debt outstanding, and holders of our secured indebtedness could force us to sell our assets to satisfy all or a part of what is owed.

 

Covenants under our senior credit facilities and the indenture governing our outstanding subordinated notes restrict our ability to pay dividends, engage in various operational matters, as well as require us to maintain specified financial ratios. Our ability to meet these financial ratios may be affected by events beyond our control. These

restrictions could limit our ability to obtain future financing, make needed capital expenditures or other investments, repurchase our outstanding debt or equity, withstand a future downturn in our business or in the economy, dispose of operations, engage in mergers, acquire additional stores or otherwise conduct necessary corporate activities. Various transactions that we may view as important opportunities, such as specified acquisitions, are also subject to the consent of lenders under the senior credit facilities, which may be withheld or granted subject to conditions specified at the time that may affect the attractiveness or viability of the transaction.

 

If a default were to occur, the lenders under our senior credit facilities could accelerate the amounts outstanding under the credit facilities, and our other lenders could declare immediately due and payable all amounts borrowed under other instruments that contain certain provisions for cross-acceleration or cross-default. In addition, the lenders under these agreements could terminate their commitments to lend to us. If the lenders under these agreements accelerate the repayment of borrowings, we may not have sufficient liquid assets at that time to repay the amounts then outstanding under our indebtedness or be able to find additional alternative financing. Even if we could obtain additional alternative financing, the terms of the financing may not be favorable or acceptable to us.

 

The existing indebtedness under our senior credit facilities is secured by substantially all of our assets. Should a default or acceleration of this indebtedness occur, the holders of this indebtedness could sell the assets to satisfy all or a part of what is owed. Our senior credit facilities also contain certain provisions limiting our ability to modify or refinance our outstanding subordinated notes.

 

A change of control could accelerate our obligation to pay our outstanding indebtedness, and we may not have sufficient liquid assets at that time to repay these amounts.

 

Under our senior credit facilities, an event of default would result if a third party became the beneficial owner of 35.0% or more of our voting stock or upon certain changes in the constitution of Rent-A-Center’s Board of Directors. As of December 31, 2008, $721.7 million was outstanding under our senior debt.

 

Under the indenture governing our outstanding subordinated notes, in the event that a change in control occurs, we may be required to offer to purchase all of our outstanding subordinated notes at 101% of their original aggregate principal amount, plus accrued interest to the date of repurchase. A change in control also would result in an event of default under our senior credit facilities, which would allow our lenders to accelerate indebtedness owed to them.

 

If the lenders under our debt instruments accelerate these obligations, we may not have sufficient liquid assets to repay amounts outstanding under these agreements.

 

Rent-A-Center’s organizational documents and our debt instruments contain provisions that may prevent or deter another group from paying a premium over the market price to Rent-A-Center’s stockholders to acquire its stock.

 

Rent-A-Center’s organizational documents contain provisions that classify its Board of Directors, authorize its Board of Directors to issue blank check preferred stock and establish advance notice requirements on its stockholders for director nominations and actions to be taken at meetings of the stockholders. In addition, as a Delaware corporation, Rent-A-Center is subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law relating to business combinations. Our senior credit facilities and the indenture governing our subordinated notes each contain various change of control provisions which, in the event of a change of control, would cause a default under those provisions. These provisions and arrangements could delay, deter or prevent a merger, consolidation, tender offer or other business combination or change of control involving us that could include a premium over the market price of Rent-A-Center’s common stock that some or a majority of Rent-A-Center’s stockholders might consider to be in their best interests.

 

Rent-A-Center is a holding company and is dependent on the operations and funds of its subsidiaries.

 

Rent-A-Center is a holding company, with no revenue generating operations and no assets other than its ownership interests in its direct and indirect subsidiaries. Accordingly, Rent-A-Center is dependent on the cash flow generated by its direct and indirect operating subsidiaries and must rely on dividends or other intercompany

transfers from its operating subsidiaries to generate the funds necessary to meet its obligations, including the obligations under the senior credit facilities and the outstanding subordinated notes. The ability of Rent-A-Center’s subsidiaries to pay dividends or make other payments to it is subject to applicable state laws. Should one or more of Rent-A-Center’s subsidiaries be unable to pay dividends or make distributions, its ability to meet its ongoing obligations could be materially and adversely impacted.

 

Our stock price is volatile, and you may not be able to recover your investment if our stock price declines.

 

The price of our common stock has been volatile and can be expected to be significantly affected by factors such as:

 

 

In addition, the stock market as a whole has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have affected the market price of many specialty retailers in ways that may have been unrelated to these companies’ operating performance.

 

Failure to achieve and maintain effective internal controls could have a material adverse effect on our business and stock price.

 

Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports. If we cannot provide reliable financial reports, our brand and operating results could be harmed. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

 

While we continue to evaluate and improve our internal controls, we cannot be certain that these measures will ensure that we implement and maintain adequate controls over our financial processes and reporting in the future. Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, could harm our operating results or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations.

 

If we fail to maintain the adequacy of our internal controls, as such standards are modified, supplemented or amended from time to time, we may not be able to ensure that we can conclude on an ongoing basis that we have effective internal control over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Failure to achieve and maintain an effective internal control environment could cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a material adverse effect on our stock price.

 

 

None.

 

 

We lease space for substantially all of our stores and service center locations, as well as regional offices, under operating leases expiring at various times through 2016. Most of our store leases are five year leases and contain renewal options for additional periods ranging from three to five years at rental rates adjusted according to agreed-upon formulas. Store sizes range from approximately 1,900 to 24,000 square feet, and average approximately 4,700 square feet. Approximately 75% of each store’s space is generally used for showroom space and 25% for offices and storage space.

We own the land and building at 5501 Headquarters Drive, Plano, Texas, in which our corporate headquarters are located. The land and improvements are pledged as collateral under our senior credit facilities.

 

We believe suitable store space generally is available for lease and we would be able to relocate any of our stores without significant difficulty should we be unable to renew a particular lease. We also expect additional space is readily available at competitive rates to open new stores.

 

 

Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time, we, along with our subsidiaries, are party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. We account for our litigation contingencies pursuant to the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 5, Accounting for Contingencies (“SFAS No. 5”) and FASB Interpretation No. 14, Reasonable Estimation of the Amount of a Loss — An Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 5 (“FIN 14”), which require that we accrue for losses that are both probable and reasonably estimable. We expense legal fees and expenses incurred in connection with the defense of all of our litigation at the time such amounts are invoiced or otherwise made known to us.

 

As of December 31, 2008, we had accrued $11.3 million relating to probable losses for our outstanding litigation as follows (in millions):

 

 

We continue to monitor our litigation exposure, and will review the adequacy of our legal reserves on a quarterly basis in accordance with applicable accounting rules. Please refer to “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies Involving Critical Estimates, Uncertainties or Assessments in Our Financial Statements” regarding our process for evaluating our litigation reserves. Except as described below, we are not currently a party to any material litigation and, other than as set forth above, we have not established any other reserves for our outstanding litigation.

 

California Attorney General Inquiry.  In January 2009, we paid $9.4 million in accordance with the settlement with the California Attorney General.

 

Eric Shafer, et al. v. Rent-A-Center, Inc.  We recorded a pre-tax expense of $11.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2007 related to the settlement of the Eric Shafer et al. v. Rent-A-Center, Inc. and Victor E. Johnson et al. v. Rent-A-Center, Inc., coordinated matters pending in state court in Los Angeles, California. Due to fewer class members eligible to participate in the settlement than originally estimated, as well as negotiated reductions in settlement payments to certain plaintiffs, the maximum claim amount remaining to be paid was reduced by approximately $2.4 million during the fourth quarter of 2008. We also paid settlement costs and plaintiffs’ attorneys’ fees in the amount of approximately $4.4 million, and settlement payments in the aggregate amount of approximately $2.4 million during the fourth quarter of 2008. We expect to fund the maximum remaining settlement payments of approximately $1.8 million during 2009.

 

In our history, we have defended class action lawsuits alleging various regulatory violations and have paid material amounts to settle such claims. We cannot assure you that we will not be the subject of similar lawsuits in the future.

 

 

None.

 

 

Our common stock has been listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market^® and its predecessors under the symbol “RCII” since January 25, 1995, the date we commenced our initial public offering. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high and low sales price per share of the common stock as reported.

 

 

 

As of February 20, 2009, there were approximately 51 record holders of our common stock.

 

We have not paid any cash dividends on our common stock since the time of our initial public offering. Any change in our dividend policy will be made at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend on a number of factors, including future earnings, capital requirements, contractual restrictions, financial condition, future prospects and any other factors our Board of Directors may deem relevant.

 

Cash dividend payments are subject to the restrictions in our senior credit facilities and the indenture governing our subordinated notes. These restrictions would not currently prohibit the payment of cash dividends. Please see the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations  Liquidity and Capital Resources — Senior Credit Facilities” on page 35 of this report for further discussion of such restrictions.

 

Under our common stock repurchase program, we are authorized to repurchase up to $500.0 million in aggregate purchase price of our common stock. As of December 31, 2008, we had repurchased a total of 19,412,750 shares of Rent-A-Center common stock for an aggregate of $457.8 million under our common stock repurchase program. For the year ended December 31, 2008, we repurchased 951,800 shares of our common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $13.4 million. In the fourth quarter of 2008, we effected the following repurchases of our common stock:

 

Stock Performance Graph

 

The following chart represents a comparison of the five year total return of our common stock to the NASDAQ Market Index and a peer group index selected by us. The peer group index consists of Aaron Rents, Inc., Family Dollar Stores, Inc., 99¢ Only Stores, Dollar Tree Stores, Inc., Dollar Financial Corp., Advance America, Cash Advance Centers, Inc., EZCORP, Inc., and Cash America International, Inc. The graph assumes $100 was invested on December 31, 2003 and dividends, if any, were reinvested for all years ending December 31.

 

 

The selected financial data presented below for the five years ended December 31, 2008 have been derived from our consolidated financial statements as audited by Grant Thornton LLP, independent registered public accounting firm. The historical financial data are qualified in their entirety by, and should be read in conjunction with, the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto, the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and other financial information included in this report.

 

 

 

 

 

Overview

 

We are the largest operator in the United States rent-to-own industry with an approximate 38% market share based on store count. At December 31, 2008, we operated 3,037 company-owned stores nationwide and in Canada and Puerto Rico, including 31 retail installment sales stores under the names “Get It Now” and “Home Choice” and eight rent-to-own stores located in Canada under the name “Rent-A-Centre.” Our subsidiary, ColorTyme, is a national franchisor of rent-to-own stores. At December 31, 2008, ColorTyme had 222 franchised rent-to-own stores in 34 states. These franchise stores represent an additional 3% market share based on store count.

 

Our stores generally offer high quality durable products such as major consumer electronics, appliances, computers, and furniture and accessories under flexible rental purchase agreements that generally allow the customer to obtain ownership of the merchandise at the conclusion of an agreed-upon rental period. The rental purchase transaction is a flexible alternative for consumers to obtain use and enjoyment of brand name merchandise without incurring debt. Key features of the rental purchase transaction include:

 

 

Rental payments are made generally on a weekly basis and, together with applicable fees, constitute our primary revenue source.

 

Our expenses primarily relate to merchandise costs and the operations of our stores, including salaries and benefits for our employees, occupancy expense for our leased real estate, advertising expenses, lost, damaged, or stolen merchandise, fixed asset depreciation, and corporate and other expenses.

 

From 1993 to 2006, we pursued an aggressive growth strategy in which we sought to acquire underperforming rent-to-own stores to which we could apply our operating model as well as open new stores. As a result, the acquired stores have generally experienced more significant revenue growth during the initial periods following their acquisition than in subsequent periods. Typically, a newly opened rent-to-own store is profitable on a monthly basis in the ninth to twelfth month after its initial opening. Historically, a typical store has achieved cumulative break-even profitability in 18 to 24 months after its initial opening. Total financing requirements of a typical new store approximate $500,000, with roughly 75% of that amount relating to the purchase of rental merchandise inventory. A newly opened store historically has achieved results consistent with other stores that have been operating within the system for greater than two years by the end of its third year of operation. As a result, our quarterly earnings are impacted by how many new stores we opened during a particular quarter and the quarters preceding it. Because of significant growth since our formation, our historical results of operations and period-to-period comparisons of such results and other financial data, including the rate of earnings growth, may not be meaningful or indicative of future results.

 

In addition, we strategically open or acquire stores near market areas served by existing stores (“cannibalize”) to enhance service levels, gain incremental sales and increase market penetration. This planned cannibalization may negatively impact our same store revenue and cause us to grow at a slower rate. There can be no assurance that we will open any new rent-to-own stores in the future, or as to the number, location or profitability thereof.

We also offer financial services products, such as short term secured and unsecured loans, debit cards, check cashing, tax preparation and money transfer services, in some of our existing rent-to-own stores under the trade names “RAC Financial Services” and “Cash AdvantEdge.” As of December 31, 2008, we offered some or all of these financial services products in 351 Rent-A-Center store locations in 18 states. We intend to focus our resources on improving the operations in these existing financial services store locations and do not plan to add significantly to the number of Rent-A-Center store locations offering financial services at this time. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in our efforts to improve and expand our financial services operations or that such operations, should they be added, will prove to be profitable.

 

The following discussion focuses on our results of operations, and issues related to our liquidity and capital resources. You should read this discussion in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this report.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

The statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this report are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “would,” “expect,” “intend,” “could,” “estimate,” “should,” “anticipate” or “believe.” We believe the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are accurate. However, we cannot assure you that these expectations will occur. Our actual future performance could differ materially from such statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include, but are not limited to:

 

 

 

Additional important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our expectations are discussed under the section entitled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this report. You should not unduly rely on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this report. Except as required by law, we are not obligated to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 

Critical Accounting Policies Involving Critical Estimates, Uncertainties or Assessments in Our Financial Statements

 

The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent losses and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. In applying accounting principles, we must often make individual estimates and assumptions regarding expected outcomes or uncertainties. Our estimates, judgments and assumptions are continually evaluated based on available information and experience. Because of the use of estimates inherent in the financial reporting process, actual results could differ from those estimates. We believe the following are areas where the degree of judgment and complexity in determining amounts recorded in our consolidated financial statements make the accounting policies critical.

 

Self-Insurance Liabilities.  We have self-insured retentions with respect to losses under our workers’ compensation, general liability and auto liability insurance policies. We establish reserves for our liabilities associated with these losses by obtaining forecasts for the ultimate expected losses and estimating amounts needed to pay losses within our self-insured retentions.

 

We continually institute procedures to manage our loss exposure and increases in health care costs associated with our insurance claims through a greater focus on the risk management function, a transitional duty program for injured workers, ongoing safety and accident prevention training, and various programs designed to minimize losses and improve our loss experience in our store locations. We make assumptions on our liabilities within our self-insured retentions using actuarial loss forecasts, company specific development factors, general industry loss development factors, and third party claim administrator loss estimates which are based on known facts surrounding individual claims. These assumptions incorporate expected increases in health care costs. Periodically, we reevaluate our estimate of liability within our self-insured retentions. At that time, we evaluate the adequacy of our accruals by comparing amounts accrued on our balance sheet for anticipated losses to our updated actuarial loss forecasts and third party claim administrator loss estimates, and make adjustments to our accruals as needed.

 

As of December 31, 2008, the amount accrued for losses within our self-insured retentions with respect to workers’ compensation, general liability and auto liability insurance was $117.9 million, as compared to $109.5 million at December 31, 2007. If any of the factors that contribute to the overall cost of insurance claims were to change, the actual amount incurred for our self-insurance liability would be directly affected. While we believe our loss prevention programs will reduce our total cost for self-insurance claims, our actual cost could be greater than the amounts currently accrued.

 

Litigation Reserves.  We are the subject of litigation in the ordinary course of our business. Historically, our litigation has involved lawsuits alleging various regulatory violations. In preparing our financial statements at a given point in time, we account for loss contingencies pursuant to the provisions of SFAS No. 5 and FIN 14, which require that we accrue for losses that are both probable and reasonably estimable.

 

Each quarter, we make estimates of our probable losses, if reasonably estimable, and record such amounts in our consolidated financial statements. These amounts represent our best estimate, or may be the minimum range of probable loss when no single best estimate is determinable. We, together with our counsel, monitor developments

related to these legal matters and, when appropriate, adjustments are made to reflect current facts and circumstances. We expense legal fees and expenses incurred in connection with the defense of all of our litigation at the time such amounts are invoiced or otherwise made known to us.

 

Our accruals relating to probable losses for our outstanding litigation follow:

 

 

As with most litigation, the ultimate outcome of our pending litigation is uncertain. Additional developments in our litigation or other adverse or positive developments or rulings in our litigation could affect our assumptions and, thus, our accrual. Our estimates with respect to accrual for our litigation expenses reflect our judgment as to the appropriate accounting charge at the end of a period under SFAS No. 5 and FIN 14. Factors that we consider in evaluating our litigation reserves include:

 

 

Significant factors that may cause us to increase or decrease our accrual with respect to a matter include:

 

 

Income Taxes.  Our annual tax rate is affected by many factors, including the mix of our earnings, legislation and acquisitions, and is based on our income, statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available to us in the jurisdictions in which we operate. Tax laws are complex and subject to differing interpretations between the taxpayer and the taxing authorities. Significant judgment is required in determining our tax expense, evaluating our tax positions and evaluating uncertainties under FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes — an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 (“FIN 48”). As required by FIN 48, which we adopted January 1, 2007, we recognize the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more likely than not sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the more-likely-than not threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon the ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority. We review our tax positions quarterly and adjust the balance as new information becomes available.

Prior to 2007, we estimated our liabilities for income tax exposure by evaluating our income tax exposure based on the information available to us, and establishing reserves in accordance with the criteria for accrual under SFAS No. 5. In estimating this liability, we evaluated a number of factors in ascertaining whether we may have to pay additional taxes and interest when all examinations by taxing authorities are concluded. The actual amount accrued as a liability was based on an evaluation of the underlying facts and circumstances, a thorough analysis of the technical merits of our tax positions taken, and an assessment of the chances of us prevailing in our tax positions taken.

 

If we make changes to our accruals with respect to our self-insurance liabilities, or litigation or income tax reserves in accordance with the policies described above, these changes would impact our earnings. Increases to our accruals would reduce earnings and, similarly, reductions to our accruals would increase our earnings. A pre-tax change of $1.1 million in our estimates would result in a corresponding $0.01 change in our earnings per common share.

 

Stock-Based Compensation Expense.  We account for stock-based compensation expense under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, Share-Based Payment (“SFAS 123R”), and recognize share-based payment awards to our employees and directors at the estimated fair value on the grant date. Determining the fair value of any share-based awards requires information about several variables including, but not limited to, expected stock volatility over the terms of the awards, expected dividend yields and the predicted employee exercise behavior. We base expected life on historical exercise and post-vesting employment-termination experience, and expected volatility on historical realized volatility trends. In addition, all stock-based compensation expense is recorded net of an estimated forfeiture rate. The forfeiture rate is based upon historical activity and is analyzed at least quarterly as actual forfeitures occur. Stock options granted during the twelve months ended December 31, 2008 were valued using the binomial method pricing model with the following assumptions for employee options: expected volatility of 33.85% to 53.58%, a risk-free interest rate of 1.62% to 3.17%, no dividend yield, and an expected life of 4.20 years. For non-employee director options, the stock options granted during the twelve months ended December 31, 2008 were valued using the binomial method pricing model with the following assumptions: expected volatility of 41.26%, a risk-free interest rate of 3.54%, no dividend yield, and an expected life of 6.90 years. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2008, we recognized $3.3 million in pre-tax compensation expense related to stock options and restricted stock units granted.

 

Based on an assessment of our accounting policies and the underlying judgments and uncertainties affecting the application of those policies, we believe our consolidated financial statements fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of our company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report. However, we do not suggest that other general risk factors, such as those discussed elsewhere in this report as well as changes in our growth objectives or performance of new or acquired stores, could not adversely impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows in future periods.

 

Significant Accounting Policies

 

Our significant accounting policies are summarized below and in Note A to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this report.

 

Revenue.  Merchandise is rented to customers pursuant to rental purchase agreements which provide for weekly, semi-monthly or monthly rental terms with non-refundable rental payments. Generally, the customer has the right to acquire title either through a purchase option or through payment of all required rentals. Rental revenue and fees are recognized over the rental term and merchandise sales revenue is recognized when the customer exercises the purchase option and pays the cash price due. Cash received prior to the period in which it should be recognized is deferred and recognized according to the rental term. Revenue is accrued for uncollected amounts due based on historical collection experience. However, the total amount of the rental purchase agreement is not accrued because the customer can terminate the rental agreement at any time and we cannot enforce collection for non-payment of future rents.

 

Revenue from the sale of merchandise in our retail installment stores is recognized when the installment note is signed, the customer has taken possession of the merchandise and collectability is reasonably assured.

The revenue from our financial services is recorded depending on the type of transaction. Fees collected on loans are recognized ratably over the term of the loan. For money orders, wire transfers, check cashing and other customer service type transactions, fee revenue is recognized at the time the service is performed.

 

Franchise Revenue.  Revenue from the sale of rental merchandise is recognized upon shipment of the merchandise to the franchisee. Franchise fee revenue is recognized upon completion of substantially all services and satisfaction of all material conditions required under the terms of the franchise agreement.

 

Depreciation of Rental Merchandise.  Depreciation of rental merchandise is included in the cost of rentals and fees on our statement of earnings. We depreciate our rental merchandise using the income forecasting method. Under the income forecasting method, merchandise held for rent is not depreciated and merchandise on rent is depreciated in the proportion of rents received to total rents provided in the rental contract, which is an activity-based method similar to the units of production method. On computers that are 24 months old or older and which have become idle, depreciation is recognized using the straight-line method for a period of at least six months, generally not to exceed an aggregate depreciation period of 30 months.

 

Cost of Merchandise Sold.  Cost of merchandise sold represents the net book value of rental merchandise at time of sale. Cost of merchandise sold also includes the cost of services offered by us, such as prepaid telephone and electric services.

 

Salaries and Other Expenses.  Salaries and other expenses include all salaries and wages paid to store level employees, together with district managers’ salaries, travel and occupancy, including any related benefits and taxes, as well as all store level general and administrative expenses and selling, advertising, insurance, occupancy, delivery, fixed asset depreciation and other operating expenses.

 

General and Administrative Expenses.  General and administrative expenses include all corporate overhead expenses related to our headquarters such as salaries, taxes and benefits, occupancy, administrative and other operating expenses.

Results of Operations

 

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, historical Consolidated Statements of Earnings data as a percentage of total store and franchise revenues.

 

 

2008 Overview

 

Highlights of our operating results for the year ended December 31, 2008 include:

 

 

Comparison of the Years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007

 

Store Revenue.  Total store revenue decreased by $17.1 million, or 0.6%, to $2,846.0 million in 2008 from $2,863.1 million in 2007. The decrease in total store revenue was primarily attributable to approximately 315 fewer stores in the 2008 period, principally due to the 2007 store consolidation plan, offset by an increase in same store sales of 2.3%.

 

Same store revenues represent those revenues earned in 2,201 stores that were operated by us for each of the entire twelve month periods ended December 31, 2008 and 2007. Same store revenues increased by $43.5 million, or 2.3%, to $1,972.4 million in 2008 as compared to $1,928.9 million in 2007. This increase in same store revenues

was primarily attributable to an increase in the average price per unit on rent and an increase in merchandise sales and financial services revenue in 2008 as compared to 2007.

 

Franchise Revenue.  Total franchise revenue decreased by $4.8 million, or 11.1%, to $38.2 million in 2008 as compared to $43.0 million in 2007. This decrease was primarily attributable to the receipt of accelerated royalty payments from five affiliated ColorTyme franchisees in consideration of the termination of their franchise agreements in 2007.

 

Cost of Rentals and Fees.  Cost of rentals and fees consists of depreciation of rental merchandise and the costs associated with our membership programs. Cost of rentals and fees for 2008 decreased by $1.1 million, or 0.2%, to $572.9 million as compared to $574.0 million in 2007. Cost of rentals and fees expressed as a percentage of store rentals and fees revenue increased slightly to 22.9% in 2008 compared to 22.1% in 2007. This percentage increase was due to an increase in promotional activity in 2008 as compared to 2007.

 

Cost of Merchandise Sold.  Cost of merchandise sold increased by $38.1 million, or 24.3%, to $194.6 million for 2008 from $156.5 million for 2007. The gross margin percent of merchandise sales decreased slightly to 24.2% in 2008 from 25.1% in 2007. This percentage decrease was primarily attributable to an increased volume of sales of prepaid services at a lower margin than our historical margins on merchandise sales, as well as increased promotional activity during the 2008 period.

 

Salaries and Other Expenses.  Salaries and other expenses decreased by $33.2 million, or 2.0%, to $1,651.8 million in 2008 as compared to $1,685.0 million in 2007. The decrease was primarily the result of a decrease in expenses associated with the decrease in our store base due to our 2007 store consolidation plan and other restructuring items. Charge offs in our rental stores due to customer stolen merchandise, expressed as a percentage of rental store revenues, were approximately 2.5% in 2008 as compared to 2.8% in 2007. Salaries and other expenses expressed as a percentage of total store revenue decreased slightly to 58.0% in 2008 from 58.9% in 2007.

 

Franchise Cost of Merchandise Sold.  Franchise cost of merchandise sold decreased by $1.0 million, or 3.1%, to $31.7 million in 2008 as compared to $32.7 million in 2007. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in the number of products sold to franchisees in 2008 as compared to 2007.

 

General and Administrative Expenses.  General and administrative expenses increased by $1.9 million, or 1.6%, to $125.6 million in 2008 as compared to $123.7 million in 2007. General and administrative expenses expressed as a percent of total revenue increased slightly to 4.4% in 2008 from 4.3% in 2007.

 

Amortization and Write-Down of Intangibles.  Amortization of intangibles increased by approximately $900,000 or 5.7%, to $16.6 million for 2008 from $15.7 million for 2007. This increase was primarily attributable to the goodwill write-down for stores sold, offset by intangible assets that were fully amortized during 2008 as compared to 2007.

 

Operating Profit.  Operating profit increased by $70.2 million, or 34.3%, to $274.4 million for 2008 as compared to $204.2 million in 2007. Operating profit as a percentage of total revenue increased to 9.5% for 2008 from 7.0% for 2007. This increase was primarily attributable to the litigation charge of $62.3 million recorded in the 2007 period.

 

Interest Expense.  Interest expense decreased by $28.6 million, or 30.0%, to $66.2 million for 2008 as compared to $94.8 million in 2007. This decrease was attributable to a decrease in borrowings under our senior credit facilities in 2008 as compared to 2007, a reduction in amounts outstanding under our senior term loans and subordinated notes, and a decrease in our weighted average interest rate to 6.21% in 2008 as compared to 7.68% in 2007 due to a decrease in the Eurodollar rate in 2008 as compared to 2007.

 

Income Tax Expense.  Income tax expense increased by $41.7 million, or 104.2%, to $81.7 million in 2008 as compared to $40.0 million in 2007. This increase is attributable to an increase in earnings before taxes for 2008 as compared to 2007 and an increase in our overall effective tax rate to 36.9% for 2008 as compared to 34.4% for 2007. The 2008 increase in our overall effective tax rate is primarily attributable to a 3.7% increase in our state effective tax rate since we realized a greater benefit on our state income taxes in 2007 due to the impact of the charge related to our store consolidation plan as compared to 2008.

Net Earnings.  Net earnings increased by $63.3 million, or 83.1%, to $139.6 million for 2008 as compared to $76.3 million in 2007. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in operating profit, a gain on debt extinguishment and a decrease in interest expense, offset by an increase in income tax expense in 2008 as compared to 2007.

 

Comparison of the Years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006

 

Store Revenue.  Total store revenue increased by $470.4 million, or 19.7%, to $2,863.1 million in 2007 from $2,392.7 million in 2006. The increase in total store revenue was primarily attributable to incremental revenue from new stores and acquisitions, primarily the Rent-Way acquisition, and an increase in same store sales of 2.1%.

 

Same store revenues represent those revenues earned in 1,935 stores that were operated by us for each of the entire twelve month periods ended December 31, 2007 and 2006. Same store revenues increased by $35.3 million, or 2.1%, to $1,729.6 million in 2007 as compared to $1,694.3 million in 2006. This increase in same store revenues was primarily attributable to more units on rent in 2007 as compared to 2006.

 

Franchise Revenue.  Total franchise revenue increased by $1.8 million, or 4.3%, to $43.0 million in 2007 as compared to $41.2 million in 2006. This increase was primarily attributable to the receipt of accelerated royalty payments in the amount of approximately $3.9 million from five affiliated ColorTyme franchisees in consideration of the termination of their franchise agreements, offset by a decrease in the number of products sold to franchisees in 2007 as compared to 2006 due to fewer franchise stores in 2007.

 

Cost of Rentals and Fees.  Cost of rentals and fees consists of depreciation of rental merchandise and the costs associated with our membership programs. Cost of rentals and fees for 2007 increased by $97.6 million, or 20.5%, to $574.0 million as compared to $476.5 million in 2006. This increase is a result of an increase in rental revenue for 2007 as compared to 2006. Cost of rentals and fees expressed as a percentage of store rentals and fees revenue increased slightly to 22.1% in 2007 compared to 21.9% in 2006.

 

Cost of Merchandise Sold.  Cost of merchandise sold increased by $25.1 million, or 19.1%, to $156.5 million for 2007 from $131.4 million for 2006. This increase was primarily the result of approximately $13.1 million of cost of sales for prepaid telephone service offered in our stores, as well as an increase in the number of items sold during 2007 as compared to 2006. The gross margin percent of merchandise sales decreased slightly to 25.1% in 2007 from 25.3% in 2006.

 

Salaries and Other Expenses.  Salaries and other expenses increased by $299.5 million, or 21.6%, to $1,685.0 million in 2007 as compared to $1,385.4 million in 2006. The increase was primarily the result of an increase in expenses associated with the increase in our store base due to the acquisition of Rent-Way and includes increases in labor expense of $157.8 million, occupancy costs of $31.1 million, utility costs of $10.7 million, expenses relating to product deliveries of $25.2 million, communication expenses of $13.9 million and charge offs due to customer stolen merchandise of $20.3 million. Charge offs in our rental stores due to customer stolen merchandise, expressed as a percentage of rental store revenues, were approximately 2.8% in 2007 as compared to 2.4% in 2006. Salaries and other expenses expressed as a percentage of total store revenue increased slightly to 58.9% in 2007 from 57.9% in 2006.

 

Franchise Cost of Merchandise Sold.  Franchise cost of merchandise sold decreased by $2.1 million, or 6.1%, to $32.7 million in 2007 as compared to $34.9 million in 2006. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in the number of products sold to franchisees in 2007 as compared to 2006 due to fewer franchise stores in 2007.

 

General and Administrative Expenses.  General and administrative expenses increased by $30.1 million, or 32.2%, to $123.7 million in 2007 as compared to $93.6 million in 2006. General and administrative expenses expressed as a percent of total revenue increased to 4.3% in 2007 from 3.8% in 2006. These increases are primarily attributable to additional personnel and related expansion at our corporate office to support growth, including our plans to expand into complementary lines of business in our rent-to-own stores.

 

Amortization and Write-Down of Intangibles.  Amortization of intangibles increased by $10.2 million or 182.3%, to $15.7 million for 2007 from $5.6 million for 2006. This increase was primarily attributable to the

amortization of intangibles from the acquisition of Rent-Way, which were included in amortization expense for the entire twelve months ended December 31, 2007, compared to approximately 45 days in 2006.

 

Operating Profit.  Operating profit decreased by $17.7 million, or 8.0%, to $204.2 million for 2007 as compared to $221.9 million in 2006. Operating profit as a percentage of total revenue decreased to 7.0% for 2007 from 9.1% for 2006. This decrease was primarily attributable to a $38.7 million charge related to our store consolidation plan and other restructuring items, offset by a net increase in same store revenues and incremental revenue from new stores and acquisitions, primarily the Rent-Way acquisition, as discussed above.

 

Interest Expense.  Interest expense increased by $36.2 million, or 61.9%, to $94.8 million for 2007 as compared to $58.6 million in 2006. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in senior debt outstanding relating to the Rent-Way acquisition for the full year in 2007 as compared to 45 days in 2006 and increased borrowings under our revolving credit facility in 2007 as compared to 2006.

 

Income Tax Expense.  Income tax expense decreased by $21.0 million, or 34.4%, to $40.0 million in 2007 as compared to $61.0 million in 2006. This decrease is primarily attributable to a decrease in earnings before taxes for 2007 as compared to 2006 and a decrease in our overall effective tax rate to 34.4% for 2007 as compared to 37.1% for 2006. The decrease in our overall effective tax rate was primarily attributable to the impact of the charge related to our store consolidation plan on our state income taxes.

 

Net Earnings.  Net earnings decreased by $26.8 million, or 26.0%, to $76.3 million for 2007 as compared to $103.1 million in 2006. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in operating profit and an increase in interest expense, offset by a decrease in income tax expense, as discussed above.

 

Quarterly Results

 

The following table contains certain unaudited historical financial information for the quarters indicated.

 

 

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Overview.  For the year ended December 31, 2008, we generated $384.7 million in operating cash flow. In addition to funding operating expenses, we used $61.9 million in cash for capital expenditures, $15.7 million in acquisitions of rent-to-own stores, $13.4 million for common stock repurchases and $307.9 million for a reduction in debt of $312.2 million. We ended the year with $87.4 million in cash and cash equivalents.

 

Analysis of Cash Flow.  Cash provided by operating activities increased by $144.3 million to $384.7 million for 2008 from $240.4 million in 2007. This increase is attributable to an increase in earnings and an increase in deferred taxes as a result of the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 as discussed below, and changes in working capital.

 

Cash used in investing activities decreased by $46.1 million to $71.5 million for 2008 from $117.6 million in 2007. This decrease is attributable to the completion of construction of our new corporate headquarters building in 2007 and a reduction in acquisitions of businesses in 2008 as compared to 2007.

 

Cash used in financing activities increased by $205.4 million to $323.2 million for 2008 from $117.8 million used in 2007. This increase in 2008 as compared to 2007 is primarily related to payments made to reduce our outstanding debt and subordinated notes, offset by the purchase in 2008 of fewer shares of common stock.

 

Liquidity Requirements.  Our primary liquidity requirements are for debt service, rental merchandise purchases, capital expenditures, litigation expenses, including settlements or judgments, and implementation of our growth strategies, including investment in our financial services business. Our primary sources of liquidity have been cash provided by operations and borrowings. In the future, to provide any additional funds necessary for the continued pursuit of our operating and growth strategies, we may incur from time to time additional short-term or long-term bank indebtedness and may issue, in public or private transactions, equity and debt securities. The availability and attractiveness of any outside sources of financing will depend on a number of factors, some of which relate to our financial condition and performance, and some of which are beyond our control, such as prevailing interest rates and general financing and economic conditions. The global financial markets have recently experienced adverse conditions and continued volatility in the capital markets may affect our ability to access additional sources of financing. There can be no assurance that additional financing will be available, or if available, that it will be on terms we find acceptable.

 

We believe the cash flow generated from operations, together with amounts available under our senior credit facilities, will be sufficient to fund our liquidity requirements as discussed above (including mandatory principal payments) during the next twelve months. Our revolving credit facilities, including our $20.0 million line of credit at Intrust Bank, provide us with revolving loans in an aggregate principal amount not exceeding $420.0 million, of which $287.8 million was available at February 20, 2009. At February 20, 2009, we had $140.5 million in cash. To the extent we have available cash that is not necessary to fund the items listed above, we intend to make additional payments to service our existing debt, and may repurchase additional shares of our common stock or repurchase

some of our outstanding subordinated notes. While our operating cash flow has been strong and we expect this strength to continue, our liquidity could be negatively impacted if we do not remain as profitable as we expect.

 

A change in control would result in an event of default under our senior credit facilities, which would allow our lenders to accelerate the indebtedness owed to them. In addition, if a change in control occurs, we may be required to offer to repurchase all of our outstanding subordinated notes at 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued interest to the date of repurchase. Our senior credit facilities restrict our ability to repurchase the subordinated notes, including in the event of a change in control. In the event a change in control occurs, we cannot be sure we would have enough funds to immediately pay our accelerated senior credit facility obligations and all of the subordinated notes, or that we would be able to obtain financing to do so on favorable terms, if at all.

 

Litigation.  We recorded a pre-tax expense of $11.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2007 related to the settlement of the Eric Shafer et al. v. Rent-A-Center, Inc. and Victor E. Johnson et al. v. Rent-A-Center, Inc. coordinated matters pending in state court in Los Angeles, California. Due to fewer class members eligible to participate in the settlement than originally estimated, as well as negotiated reductions in settlement payments to certain plaintiffs, the maximum claim amount remaining to be paid was reduced by approximately $2.4 million during the fourth quarter of 2008. We also paid settlement costs and plaintiffs’ attorneys’ fees in the amount of approximately $4.4 million, and settlement payments in the aggregate amount of approximately $2.4 million during the fourth quarter of 2008. We expect to fund the maximum remaining settlement payments of approximately $1.8 million during 2009.

 

In January 2009, we paid $9.4 million in accordance with the settlement with the California Attorney General.

 

In our history, we have defended class action lawsuits alleging various regulatory violations and have paid material amounts to settle such claims. We cannot assure you that we will not be the subject of similar lawsuits in the future. Significant settlement amounts or final judgments could materially and adversely affect our liquidity. Please refer to Note K of our consolidated financial statements included herein.

 

Deferred Taxes.  The 2008 Stimulus Act provided for accelerated depreciation by allowing a bonus first-year depreciation deduction of 50% of the adjusted basis of qualified property placed in service during 2008. Accordingly, our cash flow benefited in 2008 from having a lower cash tax obligation which, in turn, provided additional cash flow from operations. We estimate that our 2008 operating cash flow increased by approximately $75.0 million as a result of the 2008 Stimulus Act with the associated deferral expected to begin to reverse over a three year period beginning in 2009. However, on February 17, 2009, President Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the “2009 Recovery Act”) which extends the bonus depreciation provision of the 2008 Stimulus Act by continuing the bonus first-year depreciation deduction of 50% of the adjusted basis of qualified property placed in service during 2009. We estimate the cash tax benefit of the 2009 Recovery Act to be approximately $85.0 million, of which $55.0 million will offset the 2008 deferral that reverses in 2009, and the remaining $30.0 million will increase our 2009 operating cash flow. We estimate that at December 31, 2009 the remaining tax deferral associated with the 2008 Stimulus Act and the 2009 Recovery Act will be approximately $105.0 million of which approximately 78% will reverse in 2010 and the remainder will reverse between 2011 and 2012.

 

Rental Merchandise Purchases.  We purchased $730.0 million, $747.3 million and $759.2 million of rental merchandise during the years 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

 

Capital Expenditures.  We make capital expenditures in order to maintain our existing operations as well as for new capital assets in new and acquired stores. We spent $61.9 million, $102.0 million (which included amounts spent with respect to our new corporate headquarters location and the conversion of the acquired Rent-Way stores to the Rent-A-Center brand), and $84.4 million on capital expenditures in the years 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively, and expect to spend approximately $60.0 million in 2009.

 

Acquisitions and New Store Openings.  During 2008, we used approximately $15.7 million in cash acquiring stores and accounts in 20 separate transactions.

The table below summarizes the store growth activity for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006.

 

 

 

 

The profitability of our stores tends to grow at a slower rate approximately five years from the time we open or acquire them. As a result of the increasing maturity of our store base, in order for us to show improvements in our profitability, it is important for us to increase revenue in our existing stores. We intend to accomplish such revenue growth by offering new products and services, such as our financial services products, in our existing rent-to-own stores, and by acquiring customer accounts on favorable terms. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in adding financial services products to our existing rent-to-own stores, or that such operations will be as profitable as we expect, or at all. We also cannot assure you that we will be able to acquire customer accounts on favorable terms, or at all, or that we will be able to maintain the revenue from any such acquired customer accounts at the rates we expect, or at all.

 

Senior Credit Facilities.  Our $1,322.5 million senior credit facility consists of a $197.5 million five-year term loan, with the loans thereunder being referred to by us as the “tranche A term loans,” a $725.0 million six-year term loan, with the loans thereunder being referred to by us as the “tranche B term loans,” and a $400.0 million five-year revolving credit facility. The tranche A term loans are payable in 19 consecutive quarterly installments equal to $2.5 million from December 31, 2006 through June 30, 2009, $5.0 million from September 30, 2009 through June 30, 2010 and $37.5 million from September 30, 2010 through June 30, 2011. The tranche B term loans are repayable in 23 consecutive quarterly installments equal to approximately $1.8 million from December 31, 2006 through June 30, 2011 and approximately $172.6 million from September 30, 2011 through June 30, 2012.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2008, we repurchased approximately $40.6 million in tranche B term loans for approximately $36.3 million, resulting in a gain on extinguishment of debt, net of costs, of approximately $4.3 million. We further reduced outstanding indebtedness on our senior term loans during 2008 by making approximately $84.0 million in optional prepayments.

 

The table below shows the scheduled maturity dates of our senior term loans outstanding at December 31, 2008.

 

 

The full amount of the revolving credit facility may be used for the issuance of letters of credit, of which $132.2 million had been utilized as of February 20, 2009. As of February 20, 2009, $267.8 million was available under our revolving facility. The revolving credit facility expires in July 2011.

 

Borrowings under our senior credit facilities bear interest at varying rates equal to the Eurodollar rate plus .75% to 1.75%, or the prime rate plus up to .75%, at our election. Interest periods range from seven days (for borrowings under the revolving credit facility only) to one, two, three or six months, at our election. The weighted average Eurodollar rate on our outstanding debt was 1.59% at December 31, 2008. The weighted average Eurodollar rate on our outstanding debt was 0.43% at February 20, 2009. The margins on the Eurodollar rate and on the prime rate, which are initially 1.75 and 0.75, respectively, may fluctuate dependent upon an increase or decrease in our consolidated leverage ratio as defined by a pricing grid included in the credit agreement. We have not entered into any interest rate protection agreements with respect to term loans under the senior credit facilities. A commitment fee equal to 0.15% to 0.50% of the unused portion of the revolving facility is payable quarterly, and fluctuates dependent upon an increase or decrease in our consolidated leverage ratio. The initial commitment fee is equal to 0.50% of the unused portion of the revolving facility.

 

Our senior credit facilities are secured by a security interest in substantially all of our tangible and intangible assets, including intellectual property. Our senior credit facilities are also secured by a pledge of the capital stock of our wholly-owned U.S. subsidiaries (other than certain specified subsidiaries).

 

Our senior credit facilities contain, without limitation, covenants that generally limit our ability to:

 

 

Our senior credit facilities require us to comply with several financial covenants, including a maximum consolidated leverage ratio of no greater than 3.25:1 on or after December 31, 2008 and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of no less than 1.35:1. The table below shows the required and actual ratios under our credit facilities calculated as of December 31, 2008:

 

 

These financial covenants, as well as the related components of their computation, are defined in the amended and restated credit agreement governing our senior credit facility, which is included as an exhibit to this report. In accordance with the credit agreement, the maximum consolidated leverage ratio was calculated by dividing the consolidated funded debt outstanding at December 31, 2008 ($881.7 million) by consolidated EBITDA for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2008 ($363.2 million). For purposes of the covenant calculation, (i) “consolidated funded debt” is defined as outstanding indebtedness less cash in excess of $25 million, and (ii) “consolidated EBITDA” is generally defined as consolidated net income (a) plus the sum of income taxes, interest expense, depreciation and amortization expense, extraordinary non-cash expenses or losses, and other non-cash charges, and (b) minus the sum of interest income, extraordinary income or gains, and other non-cash income.

Consolidated EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure that is presented not as a measure of operating results, but rather as a measure used to determine covenant compliance under our senior credit facilities.

 

The minimum fixed charge coverage ratio was calculated pursuant to the credit agreement by dividing consolidated EBITDA for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2008, as adjusted for certain capital expenditures ($485.4 million), by consolidated fixed charges for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2008 ($261.6 million). For purposes of the covenant calculation, “consolidated fixed charges” is defined as the sum of interest expense, lease expense, and mandatory debt repayments.

 

Events of default under our senior credit facilities include customary events, such as a cross-acceleration provision in the event that we default on other debt. In addition, an event of default under the senior credit facility would occur if a change of control occurs. This is defined to include the case where a third party becomes the beneficial owner of 35% or more of our voting stock or certain changes in Rent-A-Center’s Board of Directors occurs. An event of default would also occur if one or more judgments were entered against us of $30.0 million or more and such judgments were not satisfied or bonded pending appeal within 30 days after entry.

 

We utilize our revolving credit facility for the issuance of letters of credit, as well as to manage normal fluctuations in operational cash flow caused by the timing of cash receipts. In that regard, we may from time to time draw funds under the revolving credit facility for general corporate purposes. The funds drawn on individual occasions have varied in amounts of up to $98.0 million, with total amounts outstanding ranging from $2.0 million up to $108.0 million. The amounts drawn are generally outstanding for a short period of time and are generally paid down as cash is received from our operating activities.

 

Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. (“Lehman”) is one of the lenders participating in our revolving credit facility. Lehman’s commitment under the $400.0 million revolving credit facility is approximately $37.3 million, all of which is unfunded. On September 15, 2008, Lehman filed for protection under Chapter 11 of the Federal Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court in the Southern District of New York. We cannot be certain that Lehman will participate in any requests by us for funding under our revolving credit facility or whether another lender might assume Lehman’s commitment. We do not believe the Lehman bankruptcy will have a material adverse effect on our liquidity.

 

71/2% Senior Subordinated Notes.  On May 6, 2003, we issued $300.0 million in senior subordinated notes due 2010, bearing interest at 71/2%, pursuant to an indenture dated May 6, 2003, among Rent-A-Center, Inc., its subsidiary guarantors and The Bank of New York, as trustee. The proceeds of this offering were used to fund the repurchase and redemption of our then outstanding 11% senior subordinated notes.

 

The 2003 indenture contains covenants that limit our ability to:

 

 

Events of default under the 2003 indenture include customary events, such as a cross-acceleration provision in the event that we default in the payment of other debt due at maturity or upon acceleration for default in an amount exceeding $50.0 million, as well as in the event a judgment is entered against us in excess of $50.0 million that is not discharged, bonded or insured.

 

The 71/2% notes may be redeemed on or after May 1, 2006, at our option, in whole or in part, at a premium declining from 103.75%. The premium for the period beginning May 1, 2008 through April 30, 2009 is 101.25%. The 71/2% notes may be redeemed on or after May 1, 2009, at our option, in whole or in part, at par. The 71/2% notes

also require that upon the occurrence of a change of control (as defined in the 2003 indenture), the holders of the notes have the right to require us to repurchase the notes at a price equal to 101% of the original aggregate principal amount, together with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase. This would trigger an event of default under our senior credit facilities. We are not required to maintain any financial ratios under the 2003 indenture.

 

Store Leases.  We lease space for substantially all of our stores and service center locations, as well as regional offices, under operating leases expiring at various times through 2016. Most of our store leases are five year leases and contain renewal options for additional periods ranging from three to five years at rental rates adjusted according to agreed-upon formulas.

 

ColorTyme Guarantee.  ColorTyme is a party to an agreement with Wells Fargo Foothill, Inc. (“Wells Fargo”), who provides $35.0 million in aggregate financing to qualifying franchisees of ColorTyme generally up to five times their average monthly revenues. Under the Wells Fargo agreement, upon an event of default by the franchisee under agreements governing this financing and upon the occurrence of certain other events, Wells Fargo can assign the loans and the collateral securing such loans to ColorTyme, with ColorTyme paying the outstanding debt to Wells Fargo and then succeeding to the rights of Wells Fargo under the debt agreements, including the right to foreclose on the collateral. The Wells Fargo agreement expires on September 30, 2010. An additional $20.0 million of financing is provided by Texas Capital Bank, National Association (“Texas Capital Bank”) under an agreement similar to the Wells Fargo financing. Rent-A-Center East, Inc., a subsidiary of Rent-A-Center, guarantees the obligations of ColorTyme under each of these agreements, excluding the effects of any amounts that could be recovered under collateralization provisions, up to a maximum amount of $55.0 million, of which $24.5 million was outstanding as of December 31, 2008.

 

Contractual Cash Commitments.  The table below summarizes debt, lease and other minimum cash obligations outstanding as of December 31, 2008:

 

 

 

 

Repurchases of Outstanding Securities.  Our Board of Directors has authorized a common stock repurchase program, permitting us to purchase, from time to time, in the open market and privately negotiated transactions, up to an aggregate of $500.0 million of Rent-A-Center common stock. As of December 31, 2008, we had purchased a total of 19,412,750 shares of Rent-A-Center common stock for an aggregate of $457.8 million under this common stock repurchase program. We repurchased 801,800 shares for $10.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2008. A total of 951,800 shares were repurchased for $13.4 million in 2008. Please see “Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities” on page 18 of this report.

 

Economic Conditions.  Although our performance has not suffered in previous economic downturns, we cannot assure you that demand for our products, particularly in higher price ranges, will not significantly decrease in

the event of a prolonged recession. Fluctuations in our targeted customers’ monthly disposable income or high levels of unemployment could adversely impact our results of operations.

 

2007 Store Consolidation Plan and Other Restructuring Items.  The total amount of cash used in the store consolidation plan and other restructuring items through December 31, 2008 was approximately $16.9 million, which primarily related to lease terminations. We expect to use approximately $7.4 million of cash on hand for future payments, which will primarily relate to the satisfaction of lease obligations at the stores. We expect the lease obligations will be substantially settled in twelve to eighteen months, with total completion no later than the second quarter of 2013. Please refer to Note F, Restructuring, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements on page 59 of this report for more information on our 2007 store consolidation plan.

 

Seasonality.  Our revenue mix is moderately seasonal, with the first quarter of each fiscal year generally providing higher merchandise sales than any other quarter during a fiscal year, primarily related to federal income tax refunds. Generally, our customers will more frequently exercise their early purchase option on their existing rental purchase agreements or purchase pre-leased merchandise off the showroom floor during the first quarter of each fiscal year. We expect this trend to continue in future periods. Furthermore, we tend to experience slower growth in the number of rental purchase agreements on rent in the third quarter of each fiscal year when compared to other quarters throughout the year. As a result, we would expect revenues for the third quarter of each fiscal year to remain relatively flat with the prior quarter. We expect this trend to continue in future periods unless we add significantly to our store base during the third quarter of future fiscal years as a result of new store openings or opportunistic acquisitions.

 

Effect of New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141R, Business Combinations (“SFAS 141R”), which establishes principles and requirements for the reporting entity in a business combination, including recognition and measurement in the financial statements of the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree. This statement also establishes disclosure requirements to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS 141R is effective for us on a prospective basis for business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or subsequent to the reporting period beginning January 1, 2009. The impact of adopting SFAS 141R will depend on the nature and terms of future acquisitions, if any.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair Market Measurements (“SFAS 157”), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures required for fair value measurements. SFAS 157 applies to other accounting pronouncements that require fair value measurements but it does not require any new fair value measurements. SFAS 157 is effective on a prospective basis for the reporting period beginning January 1, 2008. The impact of adopting SFAS 157 had no material effect on our consolidated statement of earnings, financial condition, statement of cash flows or earnings per share.

 

From time to time, new accounting pronouncements are issued by the FASB or other standards setting bodies that we adopt as of the specified effective date. Unless otherwise discussed, we believe the impact of recently issued standards that are not yet effective are either not applicable to us at this time or will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements upon adoption.

 

 

Interest Rate Sensitivity

 

As of December 31, 2008, we had $225.4 million in subordinated notes outstanding at a fixed interest rate of 71/2%, $709.1 million in term loans and approximately $12.6 million outstanding on our Intrust line of credit at interest rates indexed to the Eurodollar rate. The fair value of the 71/2% subordinated notes, based on the closing price at December 31, 2008, was $206.2 million. Carrying value approximates fair value for all other indebtedness.

Market Risk

 

Market risk is the potential change in an instrument’s value caused by fluctuations in interest rates. Our primary market risk exposure is fluctuations in interest rates. Monitoring and managing this risk is a continual process carried out by our senior management. We manage our market risk based on an ongoing assessment of trends in interest rates and economic developments, giving consideration to possible effects on both total return and reported earnings. As a result of such assessment, we may enter into swap contracts or other interest rate protection agreements from time to time to mitigate this risk.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

We hold long-term debt with variable interest rates indexed to prime or Eurodollar rates that exposes us to the risk of increased interest costs if interest rates rise. As of December 31, 2008, we have not entered into any interest rate swap agreements. The credit markets have recently experienced adverse conditions, including wide fluctuations in rates. Continuing volatility in the credit markets may increase the costs associated with our existing long-term debt. Based on our overall interest rate exposure at December 31, 2008, a hypothetical 1.0% increase or decrease in interest rates would have the effect of causing a $7.2 million additional pre-tax charge or credit to our statement of earnings.

 

 

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS