Pete and Danny kick things off with a reminder that tax refunds don't all arrive at once — the IRS opened filing on January 23rd, with Earned Income Tax Credit refunds arriving around February 28th and the filing deadline falling on April 18th. That means stores need to be ready and ramped up now, not waiting for the rush.
On the collections and retention side, the guys share a lineup of practical strategies: always get delinquent accounts caught up before discussing payouts, consider offering customers two months paid ahead instead of paying out entirely, and don't be afraid to make creative deals to keep customers in the door. As Pete puts it, "a little lost now could be a lot gained later." Danny adds that tax season is also the perfect time to evaluate your account managers — if they can't collect now, how will they perform in the slower summer months?
The conversation shifts to maximizing revenue through retail cash sales, accessories, and counter add-ons. Stream boxes, robot vacuums, air fryers, gaming computers, and the upcoming PS5 VR system all get the spotlight as high-potential items to push this season. The hosts also weigh in on e-bikes and e-scooters — a product both stores have largely stepped away from due to service and return issues — and invite listeners to share their own experiences.
The episode wraps with a preview of the TRIB Group's Meeting of the Minds 40th Anniversary show in Atlanta, Georgia, where Pete will be representing the RTO Show. Danny won't be able to make it, but encourages the RTO community to attend, network, and share what they learn.
Join The RTO Newsletter: https://bit.ly/RTOPODnewsletter
Subscribe on Apple: https://apple.co/4wpbUqF
Subscribe on Spotify: https://bit.ly/RTOPODspotify
Learn More About Sponsorship: https://bit.ly/RTOPODsponsor
