Aaron Rents, Inc. Files Registration Statement for Public Offering of 2,000,000 Shares of Common Stock

May 16, 2002

Aaron Rents, Inc., based in Atlanta, currently has more than 650 Company- operated and franchised stores in 43 states and Puerto Rico for the rental and sale of residential and office furniture, accessories, consumer electronics and household appliances. The Company manufactures furniture, bedding and accessories at 11 facilities in four states.

While the Registration Statement relating to the securities has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, it has not yet become effective. These securities may not be sold nor may offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the Registration Statement becomes effective. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state. When available, preliminary prospectuses relating to these securities may be obtained from Wachovia Securities, St. Paul Street, 1st Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202.

SOURCE Aaron Rents, Inc.

CONTACT:          Gilbert L. Danielson, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial
                  Officer of Aaron Rents, Inc., +1-404-231-0011
                  (RNT)