In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences, retailers are increasingly looking for innovative ways to meet evolving demands and stay ahead of the competition. For NATM Buying Corporation’s members, a new strategic partnership with Synchrony, a leading provider of consumer financial services, promises to offer the customized solutions necessary to thrive in 2025 and beyond.
This new collaboration, announced on February 24, 2025, provides NATM members with exclusive access to tailored financing options, digital payment features, and a suite of value-added resources designed to drive sales and build long-term customer loyalty. According to John Riddle, Head of NATM, the partnership highlights NATM’s ongoing commitment to providing its members with cutting-edge tools and resources to ensure continued success in the ever-changing retail landscape.
“We are excited to partner with Synchrony to bring innovative financial solutions to our members, enabling them to better serve their customers and grow their businesses,” Riddle said. “This collaboration underscores our dedication to delivering value-driven resources and strategic tools that empower our members to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.”
For retailers in the Consumer Electronics, Major Appliance, and Mattress/Bedding sectors, offering financing has become a critical strategy. With rising average ticket prices, driven by the proliferation of connected, energy-efficient, and high-tech products, flexible financing solutions have proven to be a powerful tool for reducing barriers to purchase. In turn, these financing options help build stronger, more loyal customer relationships while allowing retailers to capture greater value from each transaction.
Curtis Howse, EVP and CEO of Synchrony’s Home and Auto platform echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the value of smart financing solutions in today’s retail environment. “Smart financing solutions not only drive sales, they build customer loyalty and open doors for retailers to thrive,” Howse explained. “Synchrony’s industry-leading financial solutions perfectly align with NATM’s mission to empower its members with the tools and resources to succeed. We look forward to working closely with NATM members to drive growth and innovation in the retail space.”
The timing of this partnership couldn’t be more ideal, as consumer spending continues to shift toward more premium, connected, and energy-efficient products. As these technologies grow in popularity, financing options allow customers to reduce the upfront costs associated with their purchases, making it easier to invest in multi-product bundles such as home entertainment systems or kitchen appliance packages. For retailers, this means the potential for increased revenue through bundled sales.
Through this partnership, NATM members will gain access to tailored financing solutions that offer competitive rates and flexible terms. Synchrony’s financial products are designed to cater specifically to the needs of NATM members, who represent some of the leading independent retailers in the country.
One of the most exciting aspects of the partnership is the opportunity for collaboration between Synchrony and NATM’s four Product Committees—Major Appliances, Luxury Appliances, Consumer Electronics, and Mattress/Bedding. These committees will work directly with Synchrony to develop customized financing programs, including discounted rate initiatives that help members further differentiate themselves in the marketplace.
In addition, Synchrony will provide comprehensive analytics to measure the success of the program and its impact on members’ businesses. These insights will be invaluable in helping retailers refine their financing strategies and ensure they are meeting the needs of their customers while driving growth.
The importance of offering financing in today’s retail environment cannot be overstated. As consumers become more discerning and look for value in their purchases, financing options provide a powerful way for retailers to build loyalty. Offering attractive and flexible terms not only helps retailers capture immediate sales but also cultivates long-term relationships by making products more affordable and accessible to a wider range of customers.
In a market where competition is fierce, the ability to offer tailored financing solutions is a key differentiator. Retailers who can provide financing programs that align with consumer needs—whether it’s for high-tech appliances, energy-efficient products, or premium home entertainment systems—will be well-positioned to stand out in an increasingly crowded market.
As the partnership between NATM and Synchrony unfolds in 2025, members can expect a wide range of resources designed to enhance their competitive edge. With financing solutions that cater to the specific needs of each product category, members will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern retail landscape.
The partnership’s official launch is set for March 2025, with comprehensive programs and robust analytics in place to monitor success and maximize impact. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, this collaboration between NATM and Synchrony promises to be a game-changer for retailers looking to thrive in the ever-changing world of consumer electronics, appliances, and mattresses.
NATM’s 2025 Vendor Conference, taking place in Frisco, Texas, from July 21-24, will provide an excellent opportunity for members to meet with key vendors and learn more about the latest developments in financing solutions and other value-added services. As NATM members gear up for this exciting new chapter, they can rest assured that they will have the support they need to succeed and continue growing in the years to come.
For more information on the partnership and upcoming events, visit www.natmcorp.com.
See also: 2024 NATM Recap And Trends In The Home Appliance Sector
