Upbound Group
UPBD
#5852
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Marketcap
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Upbound Group - 10-Q quarterly report FY


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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

----------

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2001

Commission File Number 0-25370
RENT-A-CENTER, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


DELAWARE 48-1024367
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)


5700 Tennyson Parkway, Third Floor
Plano, Texas 75024
(972) 801-1100
(Address, including zip code, and telephone
number, including area code, of registrant's
principal executive offices)

NONE
(Former name, former address and former
fiscal year, if changed since last report)


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 X NO
--- ---

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of
common stock, as of November 12, 2001:


Class Outstanding
----- -----------
Common stock, $.01 par value per share 26,194,812
TABLE OF CONTENTS

<Table>
<Caption>

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION PAGE NO.
--------
<S> <C>
Item 1. Consolidated Financial Statements

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2001 and December 31, 2000 3

Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the nine months ended 4
September 30, 2001 and 2000

Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the three months ended 5
September 30, 2001 and 2000

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended 6
September 30, 2001 and 2000

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 7

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition 12
and Results of Operations

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk 22

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings 23

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 24


SIGNATURES 28

</Table>



2
RENT-A-CENTER, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS


<Table>
<Caption>
(In thousands of dollars) September 30, December 31,
2001 2000
------------- -------------
Unaudited
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents $ 28,935 $ 36,495
Accounts receivable - trade 2,817 3,254
Prepaid expenses and other assets 33,737 31,805
Rental merchandise, net
On rent 527,724 477,095
Held for rent 116,670 110,137
Property assets, net 101,383 87,168
Deferred income taxes 4,233 32,628
Intangible assets, net 714,845 708,328
------------- -------------
$ 1,530,344 $ 1,486,910
============= =============
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable - trade $ 63,027 $ 65,696
Accrued liabilities 116,702 89,560
Senior debt 458,020 566,051
Subordinated notes payable 175,000 175,000
------------- -------------
812,749 896,307

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES -- --

PREFERRED STOCK
Redeemable convertible voting preferred stock, net of placement costs, $.01
par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized; 289,726 and 281,756 shares issued
and outstanding in 2001 and 2000, respectively 289,201 281,232

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common stock, $.01 par value; 125,000,000 and 50,000,000 shares authorized
in 2001 and 2000, respectively; 27,612,218 and 25,700,058 shares issued
in 2001 and 2000, respectively 276 257
Additional paid-in capital 190,148 115,607
Accumulated comprehensive loss (6,020) --
Retained earnings 268,990 218,507
Treasury stock, 990,099 shares at cost (25,000) (25,000)
------------- -------------
428,394 309,371
------------- -------------
$ 1,530,344 $ 1,486,910
============= =============
</Table>


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

3
RENT-A-CENTER, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS

<Table>
<Caption>
(In thousands, except per share data) Nine months ended September 30,
---------------------------------
2001 2000
------------- -------------
Unaudited
<S> <C> <C>
Revenues
Store
Rentals and fees $ 1,213,387 $ 1,082,949
Merchandise sales 72,440 63,906
Other 2,878 1,916
Franchise
Merchandise sales 36,346 36,355
Royalty income and fees 4,484 4,613
------------- -------------
1,329,535 1,189,739
Operating expenses
Direct store expenses
Depreciation of rental merchandise 251,286 222,545
Cost of merchandise sold 54,176 51,744
Salaries and other expenses 748,576 639,041
Franchise cost of merchandise sold 34,821 35,049
------------- -------------
1,088,859 948,379

General and administrative expenses 40,777 36,189
Amortization of intangibles 22,402 21,098
Non-recurring litigation settlements 16,000 (22,383)
------------- -------------
Total operating expenses 1,168,038 983,283

Operating profit 161,497 206,456

Interest expense 47,215 56,284
Interest income (870) (1,094)
------------- -------------
Earnings before income taxes 115,152 151,266

Income tax expense 52,635 71,852
------------- -------------
NET EARNINGS 62,517 79,414

Preferred dividends 12,087 7,764
------------- -------------
Net earnings allocable to common stockholders $ 50,430 $ 71,650
============= =============
Basic earnings per common share $ 1.96 $ 2.94
============= =============
Diluted earnings per common share $ 1.68 $ 2.30
============= =============
</Table>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.


4
RENT-A-CENTER, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS

<Table>
<Caption>
(In thousands, except per share data) Three months ended September 30,
---------------------------------
2001 2000
------------- -------------
Unaudited
<S> <C> <C>
Revenues
Store
Rentals and fees $ 411,241 $ 372,402
Merchandise sales 21,569 18,887
Other 640 922
Franchise
Merchandise sales 12,087 11,143
Royalty income and fees 1,537 1,614
------------- -------------
447,074 404,968
Operating expenses
Direct store expenses
Depreciation of rental merchandise 86,198 77,014
Cost of merchandise sold 17,176 14,348
Salaries and other expenses 261,992 219,195
Franchise cost of merchandise sold 11,624 10,815
------------- -------------
376,990 321,372

General and administrative expenses 13,974 12,708
Amortization of intangibles 7,738 7,168
Non-recurring litigation settlements 16,000 --
------------- -------------
Total operating expenses 414,702 341,248

Operating profit 32,372 63,720

Interest expense 14,837 18,915
Interest income (282) (720)
------------- -------------
Earnings before income taxes 17,817 45,525

Income tax expense 7,843 21,624
------------- -------------
NET EARNINGS 9,974 23,901

Preferred dividends 2,709 2,631
------------- -------------
Net earnings allocable to common stockholders $ 7,265 $ 21,270
============= =============
Basic earnings per common share $ 0.27 $ 0.87
============= =============
Diluted earnings per common share $ 0.26 $ 0.68
============= =============
</Table>


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.


5
RENT-A-CENTER, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

<Table>
<Caption>
Nine months ended September 30,
---------------------------------
(In thousands of dollars) 2001 2000
------------- -------------
Unaudited
<S> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities
Net earnings $ 62,517 $ 79,414
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by
operating activities
Depreciation of rental merchandise 251,286 222,545
Depreciation of property assets 28,106 24,662
Amortization of intangibles 22,402 21,098
Amortization of financing fees 2,070 2,015
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of
Acquisitions
Rental merchandise (291,696) (252,954)
Accounts receivable - trade 437 588
Prepaid expenses and other assets (3,946) (7,042)
Deferred income taxes 28,395 59,478
Accounts payable - trade (2,669) 3,957
Accrued liabilities 19,903 (11,062)
------------- -------------
Net cash provided by operating activities 116,805 142,699

Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property assets (42,282) (25,027)
Proceeds from sale of property assets 395 1,071
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired (44,943) (39,955)
------------- -------------
Net cash used in investing activities (86,830) (63,911)

Cash flows from financing activities
Exercise of stock options 24,819 5,796
Proceeds from debt -- 229,985
Proceeds from issuance of common stock 45,677 --
Repayments of debt (108,031) (286,094)
------------- -------------
Net cash used in financing activities (37,535) (50,313)

NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH
EQUIVALENTS (7,560) 28,475

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 36,495 21,679
------------- -------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 28,935 $ 50,154
============= =============
</Table>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.


6
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. The interim financial statements of Rent-A-Center, Inc. included herein
have been prepared by us pursuant to the rules and regulations of the
Securities and Exchange Commission. Certain information and footnote
disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the
Commission's rules and regulations, although we believe that the
disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading.
We suggest that these financial statements be read in conjunction with the
financial statements and notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 2000, our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A
for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2001, and our Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2001. In our opinion, the
accompanying unaudited interim financial statements contain all
adjustments, consisting only of those of a normal recurring nature,
necessary to present fairly our results of operations and cash flows for
the periods presented. The results of operations for the periods presented
are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full
year.

SFAS 133. Effective January 1, 2001, we adopted Statement of Financial
Accounting Standard No. 133, which establishes accounting and reporting
standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative
instruments embedded in other contracts and hedging activities. All
derivatives, whether designated in hedging relationships or not, are
required to be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. If the
derivative is designated as a fair value hedge, the changes in the fair
value of the derivative and of the hedged item attributable to the hedged
risk are recognized in earnings. If the derivative is designated as a cash
flow hedge, the effective portions of changes in the fair value of the
derivative are recorded in other comprehensive income and ineffective
portions of changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges are recognized in
earnings.

The adoption of SFAS 133 on January 1, 2001 resulted in a cumulative
pre-tax increase to other comprehensive income of $2.6 million, or $1.4
million after taxes. As a result of a decline in interest rates during the
nine months ended September 30, 2001, accumulated other comprehensive loss
for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 was $(6.0) million after
taxes.

We utilize our derivative instruments to manage our exposure to interest
rate fluctuations. Our objective is to minimize the risk of fluctuations
using the most effective methods to eliminate or reduce the impact of this
exposure.

SFAS 141 and SFAS 142. On July 20, 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards
Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141, Business
Combinations and Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142,
Goodwill and Intangible Assets. SFAS 141 is effective for all business
combinations completed after June 30, 2001. SFAS 142 is effective for
fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001; however, certain provisions
of this Statement apply to goodwill and other intangible assets acquired
between July 1, 2001 and the effective date of SFAS 142.

Major provisions of these statements and their effective dates for us are
as follows:

o all business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001 must use the
purchase method of accounting;

o intangible assets acquired in a business combination must be recorded
separately from goodwill if they arise from contractual or other legal
rights or are separable from the acquired entity and can be sold,
transferred, licensed, rented or exchanged, either individually or as
part of a related contract, asset or liability;

o goodwill, as well as intangible assets with indefinite lives, acquired
after June 30, 2001, will not be amortized;

o effective January 1, 2002, all previously recognized goodwill and
intangible assets with indefinite lives will no longer be subject to
amortization;

o effective January 1, 2002, goodwill and intangible assets with
indefinite lives will be tested for impairment annually and whenever
there is an impairment indicator; and

o all acquired goodwill must be assigned to reporting units for purposes
of impairment testing and segment reporting.


7
We will continue to amortize goodwill and intangible assets recognized
prior to July 1, 2001 under the current method until January 1, 2002, at
which time quarterly and annual goodwill amortization of approximately $7.1
million and $28.4 million will no longer be recognized. We intend to
complete a transitional impairment test of all intangible assets by March
31, 2002 and a transitional fair value based impairment test of goodwill as
of January 1, 2002 by June 30, 2002. Impairment losses, if any, resulting
from the initial transitional impairment testing will be recognized in the
quarter ended March 31, 2002, as a cumulative effect of a change in
accounting principle.

SFAS 144. On October 3, 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board
issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144 Accounting for
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. SFAS 144 is effective for
fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. We do not believe that the
implementation of this standard will have a material effect on our
financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

2. EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic and diluted earnings per common share is computed based on the
following information:

<Table>
<Caption>
(In thousands, except per share data) Three months ended September 30, 2001
------------------------------------------------
Net earnings Shares Per share
------------ ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Basic earnings per common share $ 7,265 26,666 $ 0.27
Effect of dilutive stock options -- 742
Assumed conversion of convertible
Preferred stock 2,709(1) 10,371
----------- -----------
Diluted earnings per common share $ 9,974 37,779 $ 0.26
=========== =========== ===========
</Table>



<Table>
<Caption>
Three months ended September 30, 2000
------------------------------------------------
Net earnings Shares Per share
------------ ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Basic earnings per common share $ 21,270 24,404 $ 0.87
Effect of dilutive stock options -- 809
Assumed conversion of convertible
Preferred stock 2,631(1) 9,900
----------- -----------
Diluted earnings per common share $ 23,901 35,113 $ 0.68
=========== =========== ===========
</Table>



<Table>
<Caption>

Nine months ended September 30, 2001
-----------------------------------------------
Net earnings Shares Per share
------------ ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Basic earnings per common share $ 50,430 25,766 $ 1.96
Effect of dilutive stock options -- 1,074
Assumed conversion of convertible
Preferred stock 12,087(1) 10,277
----------- -----------
Diluted earnings per common share $ 62,517 37,117 $ 1.68
=========== =========== ===========
</Table>



<Table>
<Caption>
Nine months ended September 30, 2000
-----------------------------------------------
Net earnings Shares Per share
------------ ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Basic earnings per common share $ 71,650 24,347 $ 2.94
Effect of dilutive stock options -- 276
Assumed conversion of convertible
Preferred stock 7,764(1) 9,978
----------- -----------
Diluted earnings per common share $ 79,414 34,601 $ 2.30
=========== =========== ===========
</Table>
- ----------
(1) Dividends on our Series A preferred stock are payable quarterly at an
annual rate of 3.75%. We account for shares of preferred stock distributed
as dividends in-kind at the greater of the stated value or the value of the
common stock obtainable upon conversion on the payment date.


8
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2001, the number of stock
options that were outstanding but not included in the computation of diluted
earnings per common share because their exercise price was greater than the
average market price of our common stock, and therefore anti-dilutive, was
441,500 and 685,500, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September
30, 2000, the number of stock options that were outstanding but not included in
the computation of diluted earnings per common share because their exercise
price was greater than the average market price of our common stock, and
therefore anti-dilutive, was 362,750 and 362,750, respectively.

3. SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS

During 1998, we issued $175.0 million of senior subordinated notes, maturing on
August 15, 2008. The notes require semi-annual interest-only payments at 11%,
and are guaranteed by our two principal subsidiaries. We may redeem the
subordinated notes after August 15, 2003, at our option, in whole or in part.

The subordinated notes also require that upon the occurrence of a change in
control (as defined in the indenture governing the subordinated notes), the
holders of the subordinated notes have the right to require us to repurchase the
subordinated notes at a price equal to 101% of the original principal amount,
together with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase.

The indenture governing our subordinated notes contains covenants that limit our
ability to:

o incur additional debt;

o sell assets or our subsidiaries;

o grant liens to third parties;

o pay dividends or repurchase stock; and

o engage in a merger or sell substantially all of our assets.

Our direct wholly-owned subsidiaries, consisting of ColorTyme, Inc. and
Advantage Companies, Inc., have fully, jointly and severally, and
unconditionally guaranteed our obligations under the subordinated notes. We have
one indirect subsidiary that is not a guarantor of the subordinated notes
because it is inconsequential. There are no restrictions on the ability of any
of the guarantors to transfer funds to us in the form of loans, advances or
dividends, except as provided by applicable law.

Set forth below is certain condensed consolidating financial information (within
the meaning of Rule 3-10 of Regulation S-X) as of September 30, 2001 and
December 31, 2000 and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2001 and
2000. The financial information includes the guarantors from the dates they were
acquired or formed by us and is presented using the push-down basis of
accounting.


9
3. SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS - (continued)

<Table>
<Caption>

Parent Subsidiary Consolidating
Company Guarantors Adjustments Totals
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
(In thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Condensed consolidating balance sheets

At September 30, 2001 (unaudited)

Rental merchandise, net ..................... $ 644,394 $ -- $ -- $ 644,394
Intangible assets, net ...................... 367,768 347,077 -- 714,845
Other assets ................................ 498,003 18,008 (344,906) 171,105
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Total assets ...................... $ 1,510,165 $ 365,085 $ (344,906) $ 1,530,344
============= ============= ============= =============
Senior debt ................................. $ 458,020 $ -- $ -- $ 458,020
Other liabilities ........................... 349,100 5,629 -- 354,729
Preferred stock ............................. 289,201 -- -- 289,201
Stockholders' equity ........................ 413,844 359,456 (344,906) 428,394
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Total liabilities and equity ...... $ 1,510,165 $ 365,085 $ (344,906) $ 1,530,344
============= ============= ============= =============
At December 31, 2000

Rental merchandise, net ..................... $ 587,232 $ -- $ -- $ 587,232
Intangible assets, net ...................... 351,498 356,830 -- 708,328
Other assets ................................ 531,992 13,754 (354,396) 191,350
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Total assets ...................... $ 1,470,722 $ 370,584 $ (354,396) $ 1,486,910
============= ============= ============= =============
Senior debt ................................. $ 566,051 $ -- $ -- $ 566,051
Other liabilities ........................... 325,995 4,261 -- 330,256
Preferred stock ............................. 281,232 -- -- 281,232
Stockholders' equity ........................ 297,444 366,323 (354,396) 309,371
------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Total liabilities and equity ...... $ 1,470,722 $ 370,584 $ (354,396) $ 1,486,910
============= ============= ============= =============
</Table>

<Table>
<Caption>
Parent Subsidiary
Company Guarantors Total
------------- ------------- -------------
(In thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Condensed consolidating statements of earnings

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2001 (unaudited)

Total revenues ................................. $ 1,288,705 $ 40,830 $ 1,329,535
Direct store expenses .......................... 1,054,038 -- 1,054,038
Other expenses ................................ 168,667 44,313 212,980
------------- ------------- -------------
Net earnings (loss) ............................ $ 66,000 $ (3,483) $ 62,517
============= ============= =============

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2000 (unaudited)

Total revenues ................................. $ 1,148,771 $ 40,968 $ 1,189,739
Direct store expenses .......................... 913,330 -- 913,330
Other expenses ................................. 152,454 44,541 196,995
------------- ------------- -------------
Net earnings (loss) ............................ $ 82,987 $ (3,573) $ 79,414
============= ============= =============
</Table>


10
3. SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS - (continued)

<Table>
<Caption>
Parent Subsidiary
Company Guarantors Total
------------- ------------- -------------
(In thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Condensed consolidating statements of earnings

Three Months Ended September 30, 2001 (unaudited)

Total revenues .............................. $ 433,450 $ 13,624 $ 447,074
Direct store expenses ....................... 365,366 -- 365,366
Other expenses .............................. 56,946 14,788 71,734
------------- ------------- -------------
Net earnings (loss) ......................... $ 11,138 $ (1,164) $ 9,974
============= ============= =============

Three Months Ended September 30, 2000 (unaudited)

Total revenues .............................. $ 392,211 $ 12,757 $ 404,968
Direct store expenses ....................... 310,557 -- 310,557
Other expenses .............................. 56,531 13,979 70,510
------------- ------------- -------------
Net earnings (loss) ......................... $ 25,123 $ (1,222) $ 23,901
============= ============= =============
</Table>


<Table>
<Caption>
Parent Subsidiary
Company Guarantors Total
------------- ------------- -------------
(In thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows

Nine months ended September 30, 2001 (unaudited)

Net cash provided by operating activities ........ $ 111,905 $ 4,900 $ 116,805
------------- ------------- -------------

Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property assets .................... (42,237) (45) (42,282)
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired (44,943) -- (44,943)
Other .......................................... 395 -- 395
------------- ------------- -------------
Net cash used in investing activities ............ (86,785) (45) (86,830)

Cash flows from financing activities
Exercise of stock options ...................... 24,819 -- 24,819
Repayments of debt ............................. (108,031) -- (108,031)
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock ..... 45,677 -- 45,677
Intercompany advances .......................... 4,855 (4,855) --
------------- ------------- -------------
Net cash used in financing activities ............ (32,680) (4,855) (37,535)
------------- ------------- -------------
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents ........ (7,560) -- (7,560)
------------- ------------- -------------
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period . 36,495 -- 36,495
------------- ------------- -------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period ....... $ 28,935 $ -- $ 28,935
============= ============= =============
Nine months ended September 30, 2000 (unaudited)

Net cash provided by operating activities ........ $ 137,910 $ 4,789 $ 142,699
------------- ------------- -------------
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property assets .................... (24,961) (66) (25,027)
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired (39,955) -- (39,955)
Other .......................................... 1,071 -- 1,071
------------- ------------- -------------
Net cash used in investing activities ............ (63,845) (66) (63,911)

Cash flows from financing activities
Exercise of stock options ...................... 5,796 -- 5,796
Repayments of debt ............................. (286,094) -- (286,094)
Proceeds from debt ............................. 229,985 -- 229,985
Intercompany advances .......................... 4,723 (4,723) --
------------- ------------- -------------
Net cash used in financing activities ............ (45,590) (4,723) (50,313)
------------- ------------- -------------


Net increase in cash and cash equivalents ........ 28,475 -- 28,475
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period . 21,679 -- 21,679
------------- ------------- -------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period ....... $ 50,154 $ -- $ 50,154
============= ============= =============
</Table>


11
4.   COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Comprehensive income includes net earnings and items of other comprehensive
income or loss. The following table provides information regarding
comprehensive income, net of tax:

<Table>
<Caption>
Nine months ended Sept. 30, Three months ended Sept. 30,
--------------------------- ---------------------------
(in thousands) (in thousands)
2001 2000 2001 2000
-------- -------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net earnings $ 62,517 $ 79,414 $ 9,974 $ 23,901
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
Unrealized gain on derivatives held
As cash flow hedges:
Cumulative effect of adoption of SFAS 133 1,378 -- -- --
Change in unrealized loss during period (9,449) -- (5,256) --
Reclassification adjustment for loss
included in net earnings 2,051 -- 1,765 --
-------- -------- -------- --------
Other comprehensive (loss) income (6,020) -- (3,491) --
-------- -------- -------- --------
Comprehensive income $ 56,497 $ 79,414 $ 6,483 $ 23,901
======== ======== ======== ========
</Table>

5. LITIGATION SETTLEMENTS

On November 1, 2001, we announced that we reached an agreement in principle
for the settlement of the Margaret Bunch, et al. v. Rent-A-Center, Inc.
matter pending in federal court in Kansas City, Missouri. The settlement is
subject to court approval. Under the terms of the proposed settlement,
while not admitting liability, we agreed to pay an aggregate of $12,250,000
to the agreed upon class, plus plaintiff's attorneys' fees as determined by
the court, and costs to administer the settlement process. Accordingly, to
account for the aforementioned costs, as well as our own attorneys' fees,
we recorded a one time non-recurring charge of $16.0 million in the third
quarter as a result of the settlement of this matter.


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

GENERAL

This report contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and
uncertainties. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use
of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend,"
"estimate," "anticipate" or "believe." We believe that the expectations
reflected in these 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:

o uncertainties regarding the ability to open new stores;

o our ability to acquire additional rent-to-own stores on favorable
terms;

o our ability to enhance the performance of these acquired stores;

o our ability to control store level costs;

o the results of our litigation;

o the passage of legislation adversely affecting the rent-to-own
industry;

o interest rates;

o our ability to collect on our rental purchase agreements;

o our ability to effectively hedge interest rates on our outstanding
debt;

o changes in our effective tax rate; and

o the other risks detailed from time to time in our SEC reports.


12
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. Additional important factors that could
cause our actual results to differ materially from our expectations are
discussed under Risk Factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for our fiscal
year ended December 31, 2000.

OUR BUSINESS

We are the largest rent-to-own operator in the United States with an approximate
27% market share based on store count. At September 30, 2001, we operated 2,288
company-owned stores in 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Our
subsidiary, ColorTyme, is a national franchisor of rent-to-own stores. At
September 30, 2001, ColorTyme franchised 346 stores in 42 states, 333 of which
operated under the ColorTyme name and 13 stores which operated under the
Rent-A-Center name. Our stores offer high quality durable products such as home
electronics, appliances, computers, and furniture and accessories under flexible
rental purchase agreements that allow the customer to obtain ownership of the
merchandise at the conclusion of an agreed-upon rental period. These rental
purchase agreements are designed to appeal to 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. These
agreements also cater to customers who only have a temporary need, or who simply
desire to rent rather than purchase the merchandise.

We have pursued an aggressive growth strategy since 1989. We have sought to
acquire underperforming 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. Because of significant growth
since our formation, particularly due to the Thorn Americas acquisition, 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.

We plan to accomplish our future growth through selective and opportunistic
acquisitions, with an emphasis on new store development. Typically, a newly
opened store is profitable on a monthly basis in the ninth to twelfth month
after its initial opening. Historically, a typical store has achieved break-even
profitability in 18 to 24 months after its initial opening. Total financing
requirements of a typical new store approximate $450,000, with roughly 70% 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 are opened during that quarter and the quarters preceding
it. There can be no assurance that we will open any new stores in the future, or
as to the number, location or profitability.

We believe the cashflow generated from operations, together with amounts
available under our senior credit facilities, will be sufficient to fund our
debt service requirements, working capital needs, capital expenditures, the
November 2001 repurchase of our common stock held by Mr. J. Ernest Talley as
discussed below, and our store expansion program during the remainder of 2001.
Our revolving credit facilities provide us with revolving loans in an aggregate
principal amount not exceeding $125.0 million. At September 30, 2001, we had
$61.4 million available under our various debt agreements.

In addition, 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 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 will relate to our financial condition and performance,
and some of which are beyond our control, such as prevailing interest rates and
general economic conditions. There can be no assurance additional financing will
be available, or if available, will be on terms acceptable to us.

If a change in control occurs, we may be required to offer to purchase 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 our subordinated notes, including in the
event of a change in control. In addition, a change in control would result in
an event of default under our senior credit facilities, which could then be
accelerated by our lenders, and would require us to offer to redeem our Series A
preferred stock. In the event a change in control occurs, we cannot be sure that
we would have enough funds to immediately pay our accelerated senior credit
facility obligations, all of our senior subordinated notes and for the
redemption of our Series A preferred stock, or that we would be able to obtain
financing to do so on favorable terms, if at all.



13
COMPONENTS OF INCOME AND EXPENSE

Revenue. We collect non-refundable rental payments and fees in advance,
generally on a weekly or monthly basis. This revenue is recognized over the term
of the agreement. Rental purchase agreements generally include a discounted
early purchase option. Amounts received upon sales of merchandise under these
options, and upon the sale of used merchandise, are recognized as revenue when
the merchandise is sold.

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. We depreciate our rental merchandise using
the income forecasting method. The income forecasting method of depreciation
does not consider salvage value and does not allow the depreciation of rental
merchandise during periods when it is not generating rental revenue. For income
tax purposes we depreciate our merchandise using the modified accelerated cost
recovery system, or MACRS, with a three year life.

Cost of Merchandise Sold. Cost of merchandise sold represents the book value net
of accumulated depreciation of rental merchandise at time of sale.

Salaries and Other Expenses. Salaries and other expenses include all salaries
and wages paid to store level employees, together with market managers'
salaries, travel and occupancy, including any related benefits and taxes, as
well as all store level general and administrative expenses and selling,
advertising, occupancy, 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, as
well as regional directors' salaries, travel and office expenses.

Amortization of Intangibles. Amortization of intangibles consists primarily of
the amortization of the excess of purchase price over the fair market value of
acquired assets and liabilities. In July 2001, the Financial Accounting
Standards Board issued SFAS 142, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, which revises
the accounting for purchased goodwill and intangible assets. Under SFAS 142,
goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives acquired after June 30,
2001 will not be amortized. Effective January 1, 2002, all previously recognized
goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives will no longer be subject
to amortization. Also effective January 1, 2002, goodwill and intangible assets
with indefinite lives will be tested for impairment annually, and in the event
of an impairment indicator. SFAS 142 is effective for fiscal years beginning
after December 15, 2001, with early adoption permitted for companies with fiscal
years beginning after March 15, 2001 if their first quarter financial statements
have not previously been issued.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

In the second half of 2000, we resumed our strategy of increasing our store base
and annual revenues and profits through opportunistic acquisitions and new store
openings. During the third quarter of 2001, we acquired 13 stores for
approximately $8.5 million in cash in 5 separate transactions and opened an
additional 18 stores. We also closed 13 stores, merging them all with existing
stores. For the nine months ended September 30, 2001, we acquired a total of 91
stores for approximately $41.0 million in 17 separate transactions, opened 61
new stores, and closed 22 stores. Of the closed stores, 19 were merged with
existing stores and three were sold. As of November 13, 2001 we have acquired
one additional store, opened ten new stores and closed two stores during the
fourth quarter of 2001. The closed stores were merged with existing stores. It
is our intention to increase the number of stores we operate by an average of
approximately 5 to 10% per year over the next several years.

On October 8, 2001, we announced the retirement of J. Ernest Talley as our
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and the appointment of Mark E. Speese as
our new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. In connection with Mr. Talley's
retirement, our board of directors approved the repurchase of $25.0 million
worth of shares of our common stock held by Mr. Talley at a purchase price equal
to the average closing price of our common stock over the 10 trading days
beginning October 9, 2001, subject to a maximum of $27.00 per share and a
minimum of $20.00 per share. Under this formula, the purchase price for the
repurchase was calculated at $20.258 per share. Accordingly, on October 23, 2001
we repurchased 493,632 shares of our common stock from Mr. Talley at $20.258 per
share for a total purchase price of $10.0 million. In addition, on or before
November 30, 2001, we will repurchase an additional 740,488 shares of our common
stock from Mr. Talley at $20.258 per share, for a total purchase price of an
additional $15.0 million. Furthermore, we have the option to purchase any or all
of the remaining 1,714,046 shares of our common stock held by Mr. Talley at
$20.258 per share through February 5, 2002.


14
On November 1, 2001, we announced that we reached an agreement in principle for
the settlement of the Margaret Bunch, et al. v. Rent-A-Center, Inc. matter
pending in federal court in Kansas City, Missouri. The settlement is subject to
court approval. Under the terms of the proposed settlement, while not admitting
liability, we agreed to pay an aggregate of $12,250,000 to the agreed upon
class, plus plaintiff's attorneys' fees as determined by the court, and costs to
administer the settlement process. Accordingly, to account for the
aforementioned costs, as well as our own attorneys' fees, we recorded a one time
non-recurring charge of $16.0 million in the third quarter as a result of the
settlement of this matter.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2001 COMPARED TO THE NINE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 2000

Store Revenue. Total store revenue increased by $139.9 million, or 12.2%, to
$1,288.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 from $1,148.8
million for the nine months ended September 30, 2000. The increase in total
store revenue is directly attributable to the success of our efforts on
improving store operations through:

o increasing the number of units on rent;

o increasing our customer base;

o increasing the average price per unit on rent by upgrading our rental
merchandise; and

o incremental revenues through acquisitions and new store openings.

This focus resulted in same store revenues increasing by $79.2 million, or 7.5%,
to $1,140.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 from $1,061.1
million for the nine months ended September 30, 2000. Same store revenues
represent those revenues earned in stores that were operated by us for each of
the entire nine month periods ending September 30, 2001 and 2000. This
improvement was primarily attributable to an increase in the number of customers
served, the number of items on rent, as well as revenue earned per item on rent.

Franchise Revenue. Total franchise revenue decreased by $138,000, or 0.3%, to
$40.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 from $41.0 million
for the nine months ended September 30, 2000. This decrease was primarily
attributable to a decrease in the number of franchise locations during the first
three quarters of 2001 as compared to the first three quarters of 2000.

Depreciation of Rental Merchandise. Depreciation of rental merchandise increased
by $28.7 million, or 12.9%, to $251.3 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 2001 from $222.5 million for the nine months ended September 30,
2000. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in the number of
units on rent. Depreciation of rental merchandise expressed as a percent of
store rentals and fees revenue increased to 20.7% in 2001 from 20.6% for the
same period in 2000. This slight increase is primarily a result of in-store
promotions made during the third quarter of 2001. These promotions included a
reduction in the rates and terms on certain rental agreements, thus causing
depreciation to be a greater percent of store rentals and fees revenue on those
items rented.

Cost of Merchandise Sold. Cost of merchandise sold increased by $2.4 million, or
4.7%, to $54.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 from $51.7
million for the nine months ended September 30, 2000. This increase was
primarily a result of an increase in the number of items sold during the first
nine months of 2001 as compared to the first nine months of 2000.

Salaries and Other Expenses. Salaries and other expenses expressed as a
percentage of total store revenue increased to 58.1% for the nine months ended
September 30, 2001 from 55.6% for the nine months ended September 30, 2000. This
increase was primarily attributable to the infrastructure expenses and costs
associated with the opening of 94 new stores since October 1, 2000 and increases
in store level labor, insurance costs, and other operating expenses.

Franchise Cost of Merchandise Sold. Franchise cost of merchandise sold decreased
by $228,000, or 0.7%, to $34.8 million for the nine months ended September 30,
2001 from $35.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2000. This
decrease is primarily a result of a decrease in the number of franchise
locations during the first three quarters of 2001 as compared to the first three
quarters of 2000.


15
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses
expressed as a percent of total revenue increased slightly to 3.1% for the nine
months ending September 30, 2001 from 3.0% for the nine months ending September
30, 2000. This increase is primarily attributable to an increase in home office
labor and other overhead expenses for the first three quarters of 2001 as
compared to the first three quarters of 2000.

Amortization of Intangibles. Amortization of intangibles increased by $1.3
million, or 6.2%, to $22.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2001
from $21.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2000. This increase
was primarily attributable to the additional goodwill amortization associated
with the acquisition of 39 stores in the last half of 2000 and the additional 78
stores acquired in the first half of 2001. Accounting for goodwill and
intangibles amortization will be revised under SFAS 142. However, we will
continue to amortize goodwill and intangible assets recognized prior to July 1,
2001 under the current method until January 1, 2002, at which time quarterly and
annual goodwill amortization of approximately $7.1 million and $28.4 million
will no longer be recognized.

Operating Profit. Operating profit decreased by $45.0 million, or 21.8%, to
$161.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 from $206.5 million
for the nine months ended September 30, 2000. Excluding the pre-tax effect of
the class action litigation settlement of $16.0 million recorded in the third
quarter of 2001 and the class action litigation settlement refund of $22.4
million received in the second quarter of 2000, operating profit decreased by
$6.6 million, or 3.6%, to $177.5 million for the nine months ended September 30,
2001 from $184.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2000. Operating
profit as a percentage of total revenue decreased to 13.4% for the nine months
ended September 30, 2001 before the pre-tax class action litigation settlement
of $16.0 million, from 15.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2000 before
the pre-tax non-recurring class action litigation settlement refund of $22.4
million. This decrease is primarily attributable to the infrastructure expenses
and initial costs associated with the opening of 94 new stores since October 1,
2000 and increases in store level labor, insurance, utility, and other operating
expenses.

Net Earnings. Including the class action litigation settlement adjustments noted
above, net earnings were $62.5 million for the nine months ended September 30,
2001, and $79.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2000. Net
earnings increased by $3.8 million, or 5.6%, to $71.5 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 2001 before the after tax effect of the $16.0 million
class action litigation settlement, from $67.7 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 2000 before the after-tax effect of the $22.4 million class action
litigation settlement refund. This increase, excluding the after tax effect of
the class action litigation settlement adjustments, is primarily attributable to
growth in total revenues and reduced interest expenses resulting from a
reduction in outstanding debt.

Preferred Dividends. Dividends on our Series A preferred stock are payable
quarterly at an annual rate of 3.75%. We account for shares of preferred stock
distributed as dividends in-kind at the greater of the stated value or the value
of the common stock obtainable upon conversion on the payment date. Preferred
dividends increased by $4.3 million, or 55.7%, to $12.1 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 2001 as compared to $7.8 million for the nine months
ended September 30, 2000. This increase is a result of more shares of Series A
Preferred stock outstanding in 2001 as compared to 2000.

THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2001 COMPARED TO THE THREE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 2000

Store Revenue. Total store revenue increased by $41.2 million, or 10.5%, to
$433.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2001 from $392.2 million
for the three months ended September 30, 2000. The increase in total store
revenue is directly attributable to the success of our efforts on improving
store operations through:

o increasing the number of units on rent;

o increasing our customer base; and

o incremental revenues through acquisitions and new store openings.

This focus resulted in same store revenues increasing by $16.7 million, or 4.5%,
to $385.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2001 from $368.3
million for the three months ended September 30, 2000. Same store revenues
represent those revenues earned in stores that were operated by us for each of
the entire three month periods ending September 30, 2001 and 2000. This
improvement was primarily attributable to an increase in the number of customers
served and the number of items on rent.


16
Franchise Revenue. Total franchise revenue increased by $867,000, or 6.8%, to
$13.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2001 from $12.8 million
for the three months ended September 30, 2000. This increase was primarily
attributable to an increase in merchandise sales to franchise locations during
the third quarter of 2001 as compared to the third quarter of 2000.

Depreciation of Rental Merchandise. Depreciation of rental merchandise increased
by $9.2 million, or 11.9%, to $86.2 million for the three months ended September
30, 2001 from $77.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2000. This
increase was primarily attributable to an increase in the number of units on
rent. Depreciation of rental merchandise expressed as a percent of store rentals
and fees revenue increased to 21.0% in 2001 from 20.7% in 2000. This slight
increase in primarily a result of in-store promotions made during the third
quarter of 2001. These promotions included a reduction in the rates and terms on
certain rental agreements, thus causing depreciation to be a greater percent of
store rentals and fees revenue on those items rented.

Cost of Merchandise Sold. Cost of merchandise sold increased by $2.8 million, or
19.7%, to $17.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2001 from $14.3
million for the three months ended September 30, 2000. This increase was
primarily a result of an increase in merchandise sold during the third quarter
of 2001.

Salaries and Other Expenses. Salaries and other expenses expressed as a
percentage of total store revenue increased to 60.4% for the three months ended
September 30, 2001 from 55.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2000.
This increase was primarily attributable to the infrastructure expenses and
costs associated with our new store growth initiatives and increases in store
level labor, insurance costs, and other operating expenses.

Franchise Cost of Merchandise Sold. Franchise cost of merchandise sold increased
by $809,000, or 7.5%, to $11.6 million for the three months ended September 30,
2001 from $10.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2000. This
increase is primarily a result of an increase in merchandise sales to franchise
locations during the third quarter of 2001 as compared to the third quarter of
2000.

General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses
expressed as a percent of total revenue remained constant at 3.1% for the three
months ending September 30, 2001 and 2000.

Amortization of Intangibles. Amortization of intangibles increased by $570,000,
or 8.0%, to $7.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2001 from $7.2
million for the three months ended September 30, 2000. This increase was
primarily attributable to the additional goodwill amortization associated with
the acquisition of 39 stores in the last half of 2000 and the additional 78
stores acquired in the first half of 2001. Accounting for goodwill and
intangibles amortization will be revised under SFAS 142. However, we will
continue to amortize goodwill and intangible assets recognized prior to July 1,
2001 under the current method until January 1, 2002, at which time quarterly and
annual goodwill amortization of approximately $7.1 million and $28.4 million
will no longer be recognized.

Operating Profit. Operating profit decreased by $15.3 million, or 24.1%, to
$48.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2001, before the pre-tax
non-recurring class action litigation settlement of $16.0 million, from $63.7
million for the three months ended September 30, 2000. Including the $16.0
million class action litigation settlement, operating profit was $32.4 million
for the three months ending September 30, 2001. The decrease before the pre-tax
class action litigation settlement is primarily attributable to the
infrastructure expenses and initial costs associated with our new store growth
initiatives, an increase in store level labor, insurance, utility, and other
operating expenses, as well as a deterioration of the gross profit margin.

Net Earnings. Net earnings decreased by $5.0 million, or 20.8%, to $18.9 million
for the three months ended September 30, 2001, before the after-tax effect of
the $16.0 million class action litigation settlement, from $23.9 million for the
three months ended September 30, 2000. Net earnings were $10.0 million for the
three months ended September 30, 2001 including the class action litigation
settlement. The decrease before the after-tax effect of the litigation
settlement is attributable to the infrastructure expenses and initial costs
associated with our new store growth initiatives, an increase in store level
labor, insurance, utility, and other operating expenses, as well as a
deterioration of the gross profit margin.

Preferred Dividends. Dividends on our Series A preferred stock are payable
quarterly at an annual rate of 3.75%. We account for shares of preferred stock
distributed as dividends in-kind at the greater of the stated value or the value
of the common stock obtainable upon conversion on the payment date. Preferred
dividends increased by $78,000, or 3.0%, to $2.7 million for the three months
ended September 30, 2001 as compared to $2.6 million for the three months ended
September 30, 2000. This increase is a result of more shares of Series A
Preferred stock outstanding in 2001 as compared to 2000.


17
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Our primary liquidity requirements are for debt service, working capital,
capital expenditures, acquisitions and new store openings. Our primary sources
of liquidity have been cash provided by operations, borrowings and sales of
equity securities. In the future, we may incur additional debt, or may issue
debt or equity securities to finance our operating and growth strategies. 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 economic conditions. There can be no assurance that
additional financing will be available, or if available, that it will be on
terms we find acceptable.

For the nine months ending September 30, 2001, cash provided by operating
activities decreased by $25.9 million to $116.8 million in 2001 from $142.7
million during the nine month period ending September 30, 2000. This decrease
was primarily the result of an increase in the amount of rental merchandise
resulting from strong consumer demand in the first nine months of 2001, as well
as lower net earnings. We purchased $395.0 million and $345.7 million of rental
merchandise during the first nine months of 2001 and 2000, respectively.

Cash used in investing activities increased by $22.9 million to $86.8 million
during the nine month period ending September 30, 2001 from $63.9 million during
the nine month period ending September 30, 2000. This increase is primarily
attributable to the cost associated with the opening and acquisition of new
stores during the first nine months of 2001. 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 $42.3 million and $25.0 million on capital
expenditures during the nine month periods ending September 30, 2001 and 2000,
respectively, and expect to spend no more than $12.8 million for the remainder
2001. In the second half of 2000, we resumed our strategy of increasing our
store base through opening new stores, as well as through opportunistic
acquisitions. As of November 13, 2001, we have acquired one store, opened ten
additional stores, and closed two stores in the fourth quarter of 2001. The
closed stores were merged with existing stores. It is our intention to increase
the number of stores we operate by an average of approximately 5 to 10% per year
over the next several years.

Cash used in financing activities decreased by $12.8 million to $37.5 million
during the nine month period ending September 30, 2001 from $50.3 million during
the nine month period ending September 30, 2000. This decrease is primarily
related to the net proceeds associated with the issuance of our common stock in
May 2001 and an increase in the amount of stock options exercised during the
first three quarters of 2001 as compared to the first three quarters of 2000,
offset by debt repayments under our senior credit facilities. During the first
nine months of 2001, we paid down $108.0 million in debt using the proceeds from
the issuance of our common stock in the May 2001 offering and from stock options
exercised during the first three quarters of 2001, as well as from available
cash flow from operations.

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, in order for us
to show improvements in our profitability, it is important for us to continue to
open stores in new locations or acquire underperforming stores on favorable
terms. There can be no assurance that we will be able to acquire or open new
stores at the rates we expect, or at all. We cannot assure you that the stores
we do acquire or open will be profitable at the same levels that our current
stores are, or at all.

Borrowings. The table below shows the scheduled maturity dates of our senior
debt outstanding at September 30, 2001.

<Table>
<Caption>
YEAR ENDING
DECEMBER 31, (IN THOUSANDS)
------------ --------------
<S> <C>
October 1 to December 31, 2001 $ 0
2002 1,980
2003 1,980
2004 29,104
2005 110,476
Thereafter 314,480
------------
$ 458,020
============
</Table>

Under our senior credit facility, we are required to use 25% of the net proceeds
from any equity offering to repay our term loans. In June 2001, we used the net
proceeds of approximately $45.7 million from the offering of our common stock to
repay a portion of our term loans.


18
We intend to continue to make prepayments of debt under our senior credit
facilities, repurchase some of our senior subordinated notes or repurchase our
common stock under our common stock repurchase program or pursuant to our
agreement with Mr. Talley, to the extent we have available cash that is not
necessary for store openings or acquisitions. We cannot, however, assure you
that we will have excess cash available for these purposes.

Senior Credit Facilities. The senior credit facilities are provided by a
syndicate of banks and other financial institutions led by The Chase Manhattan
Bank, as administrative agent. At September 30, 2001, we had a total of $458.0
million outstanding under these facilities, all of which was under our term
loans. At September 30, 2001, we had $56.4 million of availability under the
revolving credit facility.

Borrowings under the senior credit facilities bear interest at varying rates
equal to 1.25% to 2.75% over LIBOR, which was 2.76% at September 30, 2001. We
also have a prime rate option under the facilities, but do not have any
exercised as of September 30, 2001. At September 30, 2001, the average rate on
outstanding senior debt borrowings was 5.23%.

During 1998, we entered into interest rate protection agreements with two banks.
Under the terms of the interest rate agreements, the LIBOR rate used to
calculate the interest rate charged on $250.0 million of the outstanding senior
term debt has been fixed at an average rate of 5.59%. The protection on the
$250.0 million expires in 2003. The senior credit facilities are secured by a
security interest in substantially all of our tangible and intangible assets,
including intellectual property and real property. The senior credit facilities
are also secured by a pledge of the capital stock of our subsidiaries.

The senior credit facilities contain covenants that limit our ability to:

o incur additional debt (including subordinated debt) in excess of $25
million;

o repurchase in excess of $50 million of our capital stock and senior
subordinated notes generally;

o incur liens or other encumbrances;

o merge, consolidate or sell substantially all our property or business;

o sell assets, other than inventory;

o make investments or acquisitions unless we meet financial tests and
other requirements;

o make capital expenditures; or

o enter into a new line of business.

The senior credit facilities require us to comply with several financial
covenants, including a maximum leverage ratio, a minimum interest coverage ratio
and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio. At September 30, 2001, the maximum
leverage ratio was 4.25:1, the minimum interest coverage ratio was 2.50:1, and
the minimum fixed charge coverage ratio was 1.3:1. On that date, our actual
ratios were 2.03:1, 4.77:1 and 2.13:1.

Events of default under the 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 facilities would
occur if we undergo a change of control. This is defined to include the case
where Apollo ceases to own at least 50% of the amount of our voting stock that
they owned on August 5, 1998, or a third party becomes the beneficial owner of
33.33% or more of our voting stock at a time when certain permitted investors
own less than the third party or Apollo entities own less than 35% of the voting
stock owned by the permitted investors. We do not have the ability to prevent
Apollo from selling its stock, and therefore would be subject to an event of
default if Apollo did so and its sales were not agreed to by the lenders under
the senior credit facilities. This could result in the acceleration of the
maturity of our debt under the senior credit facilities, as well as under the
subordinated notes through their cross-acceleration provision.


19
Subordinated Notes. In August 1998, we issued $175.0 million of subordinated
notes, maturing on August 15, 2008, under an indenture dated as of August 18,
1998 among us, our subsidiary guarantors and IBJ Schroder Bank & Trust Company,
as trustee.

The indenture contains covenants that limit our ability to:

o incur additional debt;

o sell assets or our subsidiaries;

o grant liens to third parties;

o pay dividends or repurchase stock; and

o engage in a merger or sell substantially all of our assets.

Events of default under the 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 $25 million.

We may redeem the notes after August 15, 2003, at our option, in whole or in
part.

The subordinated notes also require that upon the occurrence of a change of
control (as defined in the 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. If we did not comply with this repurchase obligation,
this would trigger an event of default under our senior credit facilities.

Sales of Equity Securities. On May 31, 2001, we completed an offering of
3,680,000 shares of our common stock at an offering price of $42.50 per share.
In this offering, 1,150,000 shares were offered by us and 2,530,000 shares were
offered by some of our stockholders. Net proceeds to us were approximately $45.7
million.

During 1998, we issued 260,000 shares of our Series A preferred stock at $1,000
per share, resulting in aggregate proceeds of $260.0 million. Dividends on our
Series A preferred stock accrue on a quarterly basis, at the rate of $37.50 per
annum, per share, and are currently paid in additional shares of Series A
preferred stock because of restrictive provisions in our senior credit
facilities. Beginning in 2003, we will be required to pay the dividends in cash
and may do so under our senior credit facilities so long as we are not in
default.

The Series A preferred stock is not redeemable until 2002, after which time we
may, at our option, redeem the shares at 105% of the $1,000 per share
liquidation preference plus accrued and unpaid dividends.

Litigation. In 1998, we recorded an accrual of approximately $125.0 million for
estimated probable losses on litigation assumed in connection with the Thorn
Americas acquisition. As of September 30, 2001, we have paid approximately
$117.1 million of this accrual in settlement of most of these matters and legal
fees. These settlements were funded primarily from amounts available under our
senior credit facilities, including the revolving credit facility and the
multidraw facility, as well as from cash flow from operations. Additional
settlements or judgments against us on our existing litigation could affect our
liquidity.

Talley Repurchase. In connection with Mr. Talley's retirement, we entered into
an agreement to repurchase $25.0 million worth of shares of our common stock
held by Mr. Talley at a purchase price equal to the average closing price of our
common stock over the 10 trading days beginning October 9, 2001, subject to a
maximum of $27.00 per share and a minimum of $20.00 per share. Under this
formula, the purchase price for the repurchase was calculated at $20.258 per
share. Accordingly, on October 23, 2001 we repurchased 493,632 shares of our
common stock from Mr. Talley at $20.258 per share for a total purchase price of
$10.0 million. In addition, on or before November 30, 2001, we will repurchase
an additional 740,488 shares of our common stock from Mr. Talley at $20.258 per
share, for a total purchase price of an additional $15.0 million. Furthermore,
we have the option to purchase any or all of the remaining 1,714,046 shares of
common stock held by Mr. Talley at $20.258 per share through February 5, 2002.


20
Our senior credit facilities contain covenants that generally limit our ability
to repurchase in excess of $50.0 million of our capital stock and senior
subordinated notes. In addition, the indenture governing our senior subordinated
notes contains covenants limiting our ability to repurchase our capital stock.
Under these agreements, we had the ability to effect the October 2001 repurchase
of $10.0 million of our common stock from Mr. Talley and we currently have the
ability to effect the November 2001 repurchase of $15.0 million of our common
stock from Mr. Talley. However, each of these repurchases may limit our ability
to make further repurchases of our common stock, including our ability to
exercise the option to repurchase the remaining shares of our common stock held
by Mr. Talley and pursuant to our Common Stock Repurchase Plan. Furthermore, the
restrictions under our senior credit facilities may, in some instances, limit
our ability to repurchase our senior subordinated notes following the November
2001 repurchase of $15.0 million of our common stock from Mr. Talley.

Common Stock Repurchase Plan. In April 2000, we announced that our board of
directors had authorized a program to repurchase in the open market up to an
aggregate of $25 million of our common stock. To date, no shares of common stock
have been purchased by us under this share repurchase program. However, we may
begin repurchasing shares of our common stock at any time, subject to the
limitations in our senior credit facilities and the indentures governing our
senior subordinated notes.

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.

EFFECT OF NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

SFAS 133. Effective January 1, 2001, we adopted SFAS 133, which establishes
accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments, including certain
derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and hedging activities. All
derivatives, whether designated in hedging relationships or not, are required to
be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. If the derivative is designated
as a fair value hedge, the changes in the fair value of the derivative and of
the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. If
the derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portions of
changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in other comprehensive
income and are recognized in the income statement when the hedged item affects
earnings. Ineffective portions of changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges
are recognized in earnings.

The adoption of SFAS 133 on January 1, 2001 resulted in a cumulative pre-tax
increase to other comprehensive income of $2.6 million, or $1.4 million after
taxes. As a result of a decline in interest rates for the nine months ended
September 30, 2001, accumulative other comprehensive loss at the end of the
period was $2.5 million after taxes.

SFAS 141 and SFAS 142. On July 20, 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards
Board issued SFAS 141, Business Combinations and SFAS 142, Goodwill and
Intangible Assets. SFAS 141 is effective for all business combinations completed
after June 30, 2001. SFAS 142 is effective for fiscal years beginning after
December 15, 2001; however, certain provisions of this Statement apply to
goodwill and other intangible assets acquired between July 1, 2001 and the
effective date of SFAS 142.

Major provisions of these statements and their effective dates for us are as
follows:

o all business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001 must use the
purchase method of accounting;

o intangible assets acquired in a business combination must be recorded
separately from goodwill if they arise from contractual or other legal
rights or are separable from the acquired entity and can be sold,
transferred, licensed, rented or exchanged, either individually or as
part of a related contract, asset or liability;

o goodwill, as well as intangible assets with indefinite lives, acquired
after June 30, 2001, will not be amortized;

o effective January 1, 2002, all previously recognized goodwill and
intangible assets with indefinite lives will no longer be subject to
amortization;

o effective January 1, 2002, goodwill and intangible assets with
indefinite lives will be tested for impairment annually and whenever
there is an impairment indicator; and

o all acquired goodwill must be assigned to reporting units for purposes
of impairment testing and segment reporting.



21
We will continue to amortize goodwill and intangible assets recognized prior to
July 1, 2001, under our current method until January 1, 2002, at which time
quarterly and annual goodwill amortization of approximately $7.1 million and
$28.4 million will no longer be recognized. We intend to complete a transitional
impairment test of all intangible assets by March 21, 2002 and a transitional
fair value based impairment test of goodwill as of January 1, 2002 by June 30,
2002. Impairment losses, if any, resulting from the transitional testing will be
recognized in the quarter ended March 31, 2002, as a cumulative effect of a
change in accounting principle.

SFAS 144. On October 3, 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144 Accounting for Impairment or
Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. SFAS 144 is effective for fiscal years beginning
after December 15, 2001. We do not believe that the implementation of this
standard will have a material effect on our financial position, results of
operations, or cash flows.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY

As of September 30, 2001, we had $175.0 million in senior subordinated notes
outstanding at a fixed interest rate of 11.0%, and $458.0 million in term loans.
Our senior subordinated notes mature on August 15, 2008. The fair value of the
senior subordinated notes is estimated based on discounted cash flow analysis
using interest rates currently offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers
of similar credit quality. The fair value of the senior subordinated notes at
September 30, 2001 was $169.8 million, which is $5.2 million below their
carrying value. Unlike the senior subordinated notes, the $458.0 million in term
loans and all borrowings under the senior credit facility have variable interest
rates indexed to current LIBOR rates. Because the variable rate structure
exposes us to risk of increased interest cost if interest rates rise, in 1998 we
entered into $500.0 million in interest rate swap agreements that lock in a
LIBOR rate of 5.59%, thus hedging this risk. Of the $500.0 million in
agreements, $250.0 million expired in September 2001 and the remaining $250.0
million will expire in 2003. The swap agreements had an aggregate fair value of
($11.5) million at September 30, 2001. A hypothetical 1.0% change in the LIBOR
rate would have affected the fair value of the swaps by approximately $15.8
million.

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 the Board of Directors and 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.

INTEREST RATE RISK

We hold long-term debt with variable interest rates indexed to prime or LIBOR
that exposes us to the risk of increased interest costs if interest rates rise.
To reduce the risk related to unfavorable interest rate movements, we have
entered into certain interest rate swap contracts on $250.0 million of debt to
pay a fixed rate of 5.59%.


22
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

From time to time, we, along with our subsidiaries, are party to various legal
proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. Except as described
below, we are not currently a party to any material litigation.

Colon v. Thorn Americas, Inc. The plaintiffs filed this class action in November
1997 in New York state court. This matter was assumed by us in connection with
the Thorn Americas acquisition, and appropriate purchase accounting adjustments
were made for such contingent liabilities. The plaintiffs acknowledge that
rent-to-own transactions in New York are subject to the provisions of New York's
Rental Purchase Statute but contend the Rental Purchase Statute does not provide
Thorn Americas immunity from suit for other statutory violations. Plaintiffs
allege Thorn Americas has a duty to disclose effective interest under New York
consumer protection laws, and seek damages and injunctive relief for Thorn
Americas' failure to do so. This suit also alleges violations relating to
excessive and unconscionable pricing, late fees, harassment, undisclosed
charges, and the ease of use and accuracy of its payment records. In their
prayers for relief, the plaintiffs have requested the following:

o class certification;

o injunctive relief requiring Thorn Americas to (A) cease certain
marketing practices, (B) price their rental purchase contracts in
certain ways, and (C) disclose effective interest;

o unspecified compensatory and punitive damages;

o rescission of the class members contracts;

o an order placing in trust all moneys received by Thorn Americas in
connection with the rental of merchandise during the class period;

o treble damages, attorney's fees, filing fees and costs of suit;

o pre- and post-judgment interest; and

o any further relief granted by the court.

The plaintiffs have not alleged a specific monetary amount with respect to their
request for damages.

The proposed class originally included all New York residents who were party to
Thorn Americas' rent-to-own contracts from November 26, 1991 through November
26, 1997. In her class certification briefing, Plaintiff acknowledged her claims
under the General Business Law in New York are subject to a three year statute
of limitations, and is now requesting a class of all persons in New York who
paid for rental merchandise from us since November 26, 1994. We are vigorously
defending this action. In November 2000, following interlocutory appeal by both
parties from the denial of cross-motions for summary judgement, we obtained a
favorable ruling from the Appellate Division of the State of New York,
dismissing Plaintiff's claims based on the alleged failure to disclose an
effective interest rate. Plaintiff's other claims were not dismissed. Plaintiff
moved to certify a state-wide class in December 2000. Plaintiff's class
certification motion was heard by the court on November 7, 2001, at which time
the court took the motion under advisement. We are vigorously opposing class
certification. Although there can be no assurance that our position will
prevail, or that we will be found not to have any liability, we believe the
decision by the Appellate Division to be a significant and favorable development
in this matter.

Wisconsin Attorney General Proceeding. On August 4, 1999, the Wisconsin Attorney
General filed suit against us and our subsidiary ColorTyme in the Circuit Court
of Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, alleging that our rent-to-rent transaction
violates the Wisconsin Consumer Act and the Wisconsin Deceptive Advertising
Statute. The Attorney General claims that our rent-to-rent transaction, coupled
with the opportunity afforded our customers to purchase rental merchandise under
what we believe is a separate transaction, is a disguised credit sale subject to
the Wisconsin Consumer Act. Accordingly, the Attorney General alleges that we
have failed to disclose credit terms, misrepresented the terms of the
transaction and engaged in unconscionable practices. We currently operate 27
stores in Wisconsin.


23
The Attorney General seeks injunctive relief, restoration of any losses suffered
by any Wisconsin consumer harmed and civil forfeitures and penalties in amounts
ranging from $50 to $10,000 per violation. The Attorney General's claim for
monetary penalties applies to at least 7,746 transactions through June 30, 2001.
On October 31, 2001, the Attorney General filed a motion for summary judgment.
Our response is due on November 30, 2001. A pre-trial conference is currently
scheduled to occur after November 30, 2001, with a trial date expected sometime
in the spring of 2002.

Since the filing of this suit, we have attempted to negotiate a mutually
satisfactory resolution of these claims with the Wisconsin Attorney General's
office, including the consideration of possible changes in our business
practices in Wisconsin. To date, we have not been successful, but our efforts
are ongoing. If we are unable to negotiate a settlement with the Attorney
General, we intend to litigate the suits. Although we cannot assure you that we
will be found to have no liability in this matter, we believe its ultimate
resolution will not have a material adverse effect upon us.

Wilfong, et. al. v. Rent-A-Center, Inc./Margaret Bunch, et. al. v.
Rent-A-Center, Inc. In August 2000, a putative nationwide class action was filed
against us in federal court in East St. Louis, Illinois by Claudine Wilfong and
18 other plaintiffs, alleging that we engaged in class-wide gender
discrimination following our acquisition of Thorn Americas. The allegations
underlying Wilfong involve charges of wrongful termination, constructive
discharge, disparate treatment and disparate impact. The plaintiffs, in their
prayer for relief, have requested class certification, injunctive relief, actual
damages of $410,000,000, unspecified compensatory and punitive damages,
attorney's fees, filing fees and costs of suit, pre-judgment interest, and any
further relief granted by the court. In addition, the U.S. Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission filed a motion to intervene on behalf of the plaintiffs,
which the court granted on May 14, 2001. On November 1, 2001, the plaintiffs
filed their motion for class certification. Our response to their motion is due
in January 2002. Although we believe the claims in this case are without merit,
we cannot assure you that we will be found to have no liability in this matter.

In December 2000, a similar suit filed by Margaret Bunch in federal court in the
Western District of Missouri was amended to allege class action claims similar
to those in Wilfong, although no specific amounts were claimed as actual
damages. In July 2001, the court stayed the Bunch action and compelled the
plaintiffs to arbitrate their claims. In November 2001, we announced that we had
reached an agreement in principle for the settlement of the Bunch matter, which
is subject to court approval. Under the terms of the proposed settlement, we
agreed to pay an aggregate of $12,250,000 to the agreed upon class, plus
plaintiffs' attorneys fees as determined by the court, and costs to administer
the settlement. We have the right to terminate the settlement in the event that
more than ninety-two class members opt out of the settlement. To the extent that
the claims of a purported class member in Wilfong are covered by the terms of
the Bunch settlement and such class member does not opt out of the Bunch
settlement, that class member would be entitled to her applicable portion of the
settlement proceeds in Bunch and would accordingly not be entitled to any
recovery for those claims in Wilfong. Both the individual plaintiffs in Wilfong
and the EEOC have filed objections to the settlement in the Bunch case. We
anticipate that the court in Bunch will set a date for determining preliminary
approval of the settlement in the near future.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.

CURRENT REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

None.

EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION
- ------- -------------------

3.1(1) -- Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Renters
Choice, Inc.

3.2(2) -- Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated
Certificate of Incorporation of Renters Choice, Inc.

3.3(3) -- Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated
Certificate of Incorporation of Rent-A-Center, Inc.

3.4(4) -- Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rent-A-Center, Inc.

4.1(5) -- Form of Certificate evidencing Common Stock


24
4.2(6)   --   Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Relative Rights
And Limitations of Series A Preferred Stock of Renters Choice,
Inc.

4.3(7) -- Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Relative Rights
And Limitations of Series B Preferred Stock of Renters Choice,
Inc.

4.4(8) -- Indenture, dated as of August 18, 1998, by and among Renters
Choice, Inc., as Issuer, ColorTyme, Inc. and Rent-A-Center,
Inc., As Subsidiary Guarantors, and IBJ Schroder Bank &
Trust Company, As Trustee

4.5(9) -- Form of Certificate evidencing Series A Preferred Stock

4.6(10) -- Form of Exchange Note

4.7(11) -- First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 31, 1998, by
And among Renters Choice Inc., Rent-A-Center, Inc., ColorTyme,
Inc., Advantage Companies, Inc. and IBJ Schroder Bank & Trust
Company, as Trustee.

10.1(12) -- Amended and Restated Rent-A-Center, Inc. Long-Term Incentive
Plan

10.2(13) -- Credit Agreement, dated August 5, 1998, among Renters Choice,
Inc., Comerica Bank, as Documentation Agent, NationsBank
N.A., as Syndication Agent, and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as
Administrative Agent, and certain other lenders

10.3(14) -- First Amendment, dated as of February 25, 2000, to the Credit
Agreement, dated August 5, 1998, among Rent-A-Center, Inc.
(formerly known as Renters Choice, Inc.), Comerica Bank, as
Documentation Agent, NationsBank N.A., as Syndication Agent,
and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Administrative Agent, and
certain Other lenders

10.4(15) -- Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of August 5,
1998 as amended and restated as of June 29, 2000, among
Rent-A-Center, Inc., Comerica Bank, as Documentation Agent,
Bank Of America, NA, as Syndication Agent, and The Chase
Manhattan Bank, as Administration Agent

10.5(16) -- First Amendment, dated as of May 8, 2001, to the Credit
Agreement, dated as of August 5, 1998, as amended and
restated as Of June 29, 2000, among Rent-A-Center, Inc., the
Lenders parties To the Credit Agreement, the Documentation
Agent and Syndication Agent named therein and The Chase
Manhattan Bank, as Administrative Agent.

10.6(17) -- Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated August 5, 1998, made
By Renters Choice, Inc., and certain of its Subsidiaries in
favor Of the Chase Manhattan Bank, as Administrative Agent

10.7* -- Amended and Restated Stockholders Agreement, effective as of
October 8, 2001, by and among Apollo Investment Fund IV,
L.P., Apollo Overseas Partners IV, L.P., J. Ernest Talley,
Mark E. Speese, Rent-A-Center, Inc., and certain other
persons


25
10.8(18)   --   Registration Rights Agreement, dated August 5, 1998, by and
between Renters Choice, Inc., Apollo Investment Fund IV,
L.P., and Apollo Overseas Partners IV, L.P., related to the
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock

10.9* -- Common Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 8, 2001,
by and among J. Ernest Talley, Mary Ann Talley, the Talley
1999 Trust, and Rent-A-Center, Inc.
- ----------
* Filed herewith.

(1) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1994

(2) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1996

(3) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2001

(4) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to the registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000

(5) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the registrant's Form
S-4 filed on January 19, 1999.

(6) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998

(7) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998

(8) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the registrant's
Registration Statement Form S-4 filed on January 19, 1999

(9) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the registrant's
Registration Statement Form S-4 filed on January 19, 1999

(10) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the registrant's
Registration Statement Form S-4 filed on January 19, 1999

(11) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the registrant's
Registration Statement Form S-4 filed on January 19, 1999

(12) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the registrant's
Registration Statement of Form S-8 (File No. 333-62582)

(13) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998

(14) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the registrant's Annual
Report on form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999

(15) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2000

26
(16) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2001

(17) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998

(18) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998


27
SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended,
the registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned duly authorized officer.

RENT-A-CENTER, INC.

By: /s/ Robert D. Davis
-------------------------------------------
Robert D. Davis
Senior Vice President-Finance and
Chief Financial Officer

Date: November 13, 2001



28
INDEX TO EXHIBITS

<Table>
<Caption>

EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION
- ------- -----------
<S> <C>
3.1(1) -- Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Renters
Choice, Inc.

3.2(2) -- Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated
Certificate of Incorporation of Renters Choice, Inc.

3.3(3) -- Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated
Certificate of Incorporation of Rent-A-Center, Inc.

3.4(4) -- Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rent-A-Center, Inc.

4.1(5) -- Form of Certificate evidencing Common Stock

4.2(6) -- Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Relative Rights
And Limitations of Series A Preferred Stock of Renters Choice,
Inc.

4.3(7) -- Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Relative Rights
And Limitations of Series B Preferred Stock of Renters Choice,
Inc.

4.4(8) -- Indenture, dated as of August 18, 1998, by and among Renters
Choice, Inc., as Issuer, ColorTyme, Inc. and Rent-A-Center,
Inc., As Subsidiary Guarantors, and IBJ Schroder Bank &
Trust Company, As Trustee

4.5(9) -- Form of Certificate evidencing Series A Preferred Stock

4.6(10) -- Form of Exchange Note

4.7(11) -- First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 31, 1998, by
And among Renters Choice Inc., Rent-A-Center, Inc., ColorTyme,
Inc., Advantage Companies, Inc. and IBJ Schroder Bank & Trust
Company, as Trustee.

10.1(12) -- Amended and Restated Rent-A-Center, Inc. Long-Term Incentive
Plan

10.2(13) -- Credit Agreement, dated August 5, 1998, among Renters Choice,
Inc., Comerica Bank, as Documentation Agent, NationsBank
N.A., as Syndication Agent, and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as
Administrative Agent, and certain other lenders

10.3(14) -- First Amendment, dated as of February 25, 2000, to the Credit
Agreement, dated August 5, 1998, among Rent-A-Center, Inc.
(formerly known as Renters Choice, Inc.), Comerica Bank, as
Documentation Agent, NationsBank N.A., as Syndication Agent,
and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Administrative Agent, and
certain Other lenders

10.4(15) -- Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of August 5,
1998 as amended and restated as of June 29, 2000, among
Rent-A-Center, Inc., Comerica Bank, as Documentation Agent,
Bank Of America, NA, as Syndication Agent, and The Chase
Manhattan Bank, as Administration Agent
</Table>


29
<Table>
<S> <C>

10.5(16) -- First Amendment, dated as of May 8, 2001, to the Credit
Agreement, dated as of August 5, 1998, as amended and
restated as Of June 29, 2000, among Rent-A-Center, Inc., the
Lenders parties To the Credit Agreement, the Documentation
Agent and Syndication Agent named therein and The Chase
Manhattan Bank, as Administrative Agent.

10.6(17) -- Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated August 5, 1998, made
By Renters Choice, Inc., and certain of its Subsidiaries in
favor Of the Chase Manhattan Bank, as Administrative Agent

10.7* -- Amended and Restated Stockholders Agreement, effective as of
October 8, 2001, by and among Apollo Investment Fund IV,
L.P., Apollo Overseas Partners IV, L.P., J. Ernest Talley,
Mark E. Speese, Rent-A-Center, Inc., and certain other
persons

10.8(18) -- Registration Rights Agreement, dated August 5, 1998, by and
between Renters Choice, Inc., Apollo Investment Fund IV,
L.P., and Apollo Overseas Partners IV, L.P., related to the
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock

10.9* -- Common Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 8, 2001,
by and among J. Ernest Talley, Mary Ann Talley, the Talley
1999 Trust, and Rent-A-Center, Inc.
</Table>
- ----------
* Filed herewith.

(1) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1994

(2) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1996

(3) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2001

(4) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to the registrant's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000

(5) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the registrant's Form
S-4 filed on January 19, 1999.

(6) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998

(7) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998

(8) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the registrant's
Registration Statement Form S-4 filed on January 19, 1999

(9) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the registrant's
Registration Statement Form S-4 filed on January 19, 1999

(10) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the registrant's
Registration Statement Form S-4 filed on January 19, 1999


30
(11) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the registrant's
Registration Statement Form S-4 filed on January 19, 1999

(12) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the registrant's
Registration Statement of Form S-8 (File No. 333-62582)

(13) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998

(14) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the registrant's Annual
Report on form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999

(15) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2000

(16) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2001

(17) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998

(18) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the registrant's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998


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