From Tribune staff reports
LEEDS — Amidst growing concerns with title and payday loan companies and the predatory lending practices of some lenders in the industry, one business in Leeds flipped the script. Advance America has reorganized and relaunched with a completely new business model.
Advance America no longer offers title loans or payday loans, but now offers regular installment loans at affordable interest rates with flexible payment terms.
Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Leeds celebrated the relaunch with a ribbon cutting on Friday, January 26, at.
Mayor David Miller cut the ribbon along with a group of Leeds area business professionals and chamber board members to celebrate Advance America’s business model transition.
Advance America store manager, Candice Turner, addressed those gathered and shared more information about their company and what they now offer.
Mayor Miller spoke a few words to personally congratulate them on their new business model.
“We’re tickled that you (Advance America Leeds) have reorganized and are staying here in Leeds, so welcome again,” Miller said. “Our philosophy is that Leeds is open for business and since we’ve been in the office, we’ve brought in over 80 new businesses or expanded businesses to Leeds. This is just another example.”
Miller said the city was financially sound and focused on a welcoming business environment for any businesses interested in locating in Leeds.