In the ever-evolving rent-to-own (RTO) industry, experienced operators know that success isn't just about attracting new customers-it's about building loyalty with the ones you already have. Retaining your current customers not only strengthens your bottom line but also creates opportunities for long-term growth. By integrating a strong customer retention strategy with targeted, effective advertising, you can take your business from consistent to thriving.

At Tango, we specialize in helping RTO businesses create advertising strategies that foster loyalty, deepen customer relationships, and keep your brand top-of-mind for long-term success.

Why Retention Matters in RTO

It's no secret that acquiring a new customer costs more than retaining an existing one. But beyond cost savings, a loyal customer base offers:

• Reliable, Repeat Revenue: Loyal customers are more likely to rent again and upgrade their existing items.
• Word-of-Mouth Referrals: Happy customers become your best brand ambassadors, bringing in new customers organically.
• Stronger Brand Reputation: Customers who feel valued spread the word, boosting your brand's reputation in your community.

Retention is also incredibly profitable. Just a 5% increase in customer retention can boost profits by 25% to 95% (Forbes).

For RTO businesses, where relationships and trust are key, retention isn't just an add-on-it's the foundation of long-term success. At Tango, we understand the unique challenges of the RTO market, and our tailored advertising solutions are designed to maximize retention while enhancing your bottom line.

How RTO Businesses Can Use Advertising to Foster Loyalty

Retention-focused advertising keeps your business at the forefront of your customer's minds, building trust and connection even after the initial transaction. Here's how we help you nurture loyalty:

Make Loyalty Programs Work For You

Rewarding your customers for their continued business isn't just good practice-it's great advertising. However, customers often overlook loyalty perks unless they're prominently promoted. This is why highlighting these benefits through consistent advertising is essential. At Tango, we design fully customized email campaigns, social media posts, and monthly text messages to share messaging for your store like:

• Exclusive discounts for loyal customers.
• Perks for consistent on-time payments.
• Incentives like free upgrades or bonus months for renewing agreements.

Our team helps you actively market your loyalty programs, reminding customers of the benefits of staying with your brand. By showcasing real-life customer success stories and testimonials, we create a personal touch that resonates with your audience and builds a relationship with your community.

Go The Extra Mile: Value Beyond Rentals

Become more than a service provider-be a trusted partner in your customers' lives. Offering additional services and resources can enhance the rental experience and encourage long-term loyalty. Consider opportunities to promote your store as being more customer-oriented:

• Free Repairs: Highlight your commitment to ensuring their items remain in top condition throughout the rental period.
• Flexible Payment Options: Offer tailored payment plans to help customers manage their budgets.
• Product Care Tips: Provide guidance on maintaining furniture or appliances to maximize their value.
• Upgrade Opportunities: Share how customers can easily transition to newer or better products as their needs change.
• Exclusive Perks: Reward loyal customers with special offers, early access to new products, or customer appreciation events.

For example, you could feature content like "The Benefits of Free Repairs with Your Rental" or "How to Keep Your Furniture Looking Brand New with These Easy Tips." By going the extra mile to provide valuable services and resources, you build trust, strengthen relationships, and keep your customers coming back.

Stay True To Your Brand's Promise

Your advertising should consistently reflect what makes your business stand out-whether it's flexibility, exceptional customer service, or quality products. Tango helps you reinforce these values through every campaign, reminding customers why they chose you in the first place.

We partner with you to showcase customer testimonials, reviews, and in-store content to provide real stories of how your business delivers on its promises. This not only builds trust but also provides social proof that your customers can rely on your business.

Retention-Boosting Campaign Ideas from Tango

Need inspiration? Tango's team of experts can help you execute these advertising strategies to keep customers engaged:

Referral Programs:

Encourage your customers to bring friends and family by offering discounts or rewards for successful referrals. We'll promote these incentives across all channels-email, social media, and in-store-with messaging like "Refer a friend and get $50 off your next payment when they sign up."

Renewal Campaigns:

Use automated reminders via SMS or email to alert customers about expiring agreements. Tango can help you craft messages that sweeten the deal with exclusive perks for renewing early, such as a discount on their next rental or a complimentary upgrade.

Appreciation Events:

Host special events, either in-store or online, where loyal customers get first access to new inventory or enjoy discounts as a thank-you. Tango will help you plan and promote these events to maximize attendance and engagement.

Seasonal Promotions:

Tie your retention campaigns to seasonal themes. For instance, a "Holiday Thank-You" campaign offering discounted payments during December or a summer upgrade special can re-engage customers and make them feel appreciated year-round.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

While focusing on retention is crucial, it's important to avoid these common mistakes. Tango's expertise ensures you steer clear of these pitfalls:

• Overloading Customers with Promotions: Bombarding your customers with constant emails or ads can lead to fatigue. Tango helps you be strategic, focusing on quality over quantity.
• Neglecting Personalization: Generic messages won't resonate. To build a relationship with your local community, it is important to use customer data to tailor your communications to their specific preferences and history.
• Failing to Follow Through: If you promise rewards or perks, make sure they're easy to redeem and deliver real value.

Make Retention Your Competitive Advantage

By focusing on retention, you're not just building repeat business-you're creating a loyal community of customers who trust your brand. Ready to elevate your retention strategy? Start by taking small, meaningful steps today. Advertising tailored to your current customers helps build loyalty, strengthens your brand, and creates lasting relationships-a recipe for success in the RTO industry.

Tango's team of experts is here to help you make retention a priority. By partnering with us, you're not just securing repeat business-you're creating customers who'll stick with you through every stage of their lives. And that's a future worth investing in.