John Portman resigns from Aaron's board

Citing increased business at the architectural firm that bears his name, John Portman has resigned from the board of rent-to-own furniture company Aaron's.

In his resignation letter, Portman said business is stronger than it has been in many years, and he is now spending six or seven days a week in the office. As such, he said he needed to curtail his outside activities until he has the time and energy needed to fulfill them.

Portman is the founder and chairman of real estate development firm Portman Holdings and AmericasMart, in addition to his architectural and engineering firm.

In a statement, Aaron's board chairman and founder Charlie Loudermilk said Portman's "absence will be deeply felt," but that the business is thriving.

Portman said in his letter he remains committed to Aaron's success.

Portman is the second member of the board to resign this month. Aaron's former president and CEO Robin Loudermilk left the board Nov. 4 for health reasons. The company has no immediate plans to replace either member.

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