Mike's Rent-To-Own Receives Small Business Award

It is the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce’s pleasure to recognize Mike's Rent-To-Own as the July Small Business of the Month.

Like so many great small business stories, this one began with a leap of faith.

In 1981, Mike left a successful management career with Chrysler in St. Louis looking for something more than a good paycheck. He wanted a better quality of life for his family and believed in building something of his own. He moved to Hutchinson, opened a small Curtis Mathes franchise across from Dillons at 5th and Adams, and even lived upstairs while getting the business off the ground. When the franchise ended unexpectedly, Mike didn't give up—he adapted, rebranded, and Mike's Rent-To-Own was born.

Forty-five years later, that determination has grown into a true Kansas success story. What started with two employees and basic electronics has expanded to 17 employees in Hutchinson, and 14 locations across Central Kansas, with plans to continue growing. Today, the Mike continues to be operate the business, but his son Mike and and his daughter Angela have joined him, making it a true family business in every sense of the word.

But what has never changed is their philosophy: treat customers right before and after the sale. Whether it's flexible payment options, free delivery and installation, in-house service, or simply treating every customer with respect, they've built a reputation for putting people first.

That same commitment extends to their employees and our community. Mike's Rent-To-Own offers outstanding benefits, celebrates employee milestones, supports youth organizations, local schools, Honor Flights, homeless and women's shelters, scholarship programs, and countless community initiatives throughout the year.

When asked what advice he would give future business owners, Mike said, "Never give up, do your best every day, and treat your customers like royalty." That simple philosophy has served his family—and our community—well for more than four decades.

Please join me in congratulating Mike Strong and the entire team at Mike's Rent-To-Own, our Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce July Small Business of the Month!