Bestway's already world-class training system is constantly being refined. The training offered during this weeks convention is a superb example of real-world experiences condensed into a training package.

David Kraemer, CEO of Bestway, at the company's 2007 Convention in Memphis, Tennessee.

Listen to RTO Online's NEW podcast interview with Bestway CEO David Kraemer here.

Over 90 Bestway Rent to Own managers are re-discovering hidden treasure this week at the company's 2007 convention at the Peabody Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee. Bestway CEO David Kraemer explained that the theme of this year's convention is "Tesori Nascosti", Italian for "hidden treasure". Click play at left to listen to RTO Online's podcast interview with Bestway CEO David Kraemer. See a complete photo gallery of the event (96 photos) here.

Sales at Bestway are tracking well above last year. The challenge now, says Kraemer, is adding increased retention to those sales. "Deliveries are up well over 20% in the last nine months but we're seeing returns creep up. We feel like we can improve results by focusing on keeping customers rather chasing after new ones."

The rent to own model is a simple one of rent and collect. Kraemer said that maintaining a balance between those two quite different skill sets requires constant training. "It's one of the most difficult things to teach people as they move up through the system."

Bestway's already world-class training system is constantly being refined. The training offered during this week's convention is a superb example of real-world experiences condensed into a training package.

NEW: Podcast interview with Bestway Operations Analyst Steve Kruse.

"Ultimately we do three things - rent collect and manage assets," said Kraemer. "The list of things we need to do well to accomplish those objectives can turn into a laundry list." Bestway's training system is designed to develop competencies in the key components without getting diluted and losing sight of the main objective - gaining new customers and helping them acquire ownership.

The best training in the world won't make a difference if it's ignored. Bestway takes great pains to tie training directly to a manager's success. "Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care," said Kraemer. "We start out by showing our managers how much we care about their success."

Bestway's store count is up 15% from last year. Kraemer re-stated his belief that the company can be a 300 store chain. In order to grow at a pace that will satisfy the CEO, the company will have to get more aggressive at acquisitions. Bestway Operations Analyst Steve Kruse said, "There are acquisition opportunities in every state we're in."

Multimedia from the 2007 Bestway Convention in Memphis, Tennessee:

Marie Moore, Bestway Store Manager, District 2. District 2 has won Bestway's "Best of the Best" award for 8 of the past 9 months.

Photo Galleries: - Bowling Tournament (50) - Training (46) Podcast Interviews - David Kraemer, CEO, Bestway - Steve Kruse, Operations Analyst, Bestway

Bestway Chief Financial Officer Beth Durrett said seeing the intensity and passion of the company's store managers at the annual convention is rewarding. "This convention rejuvenates me. It reminds me of what we're capable of."