LendPro has launched a ChatGPT plugin designed to connect consumers searching for financing options with participating retailers, including tire dealerships and automotive service providers.

The plugin allows shoppers to search for stores offering financing, explore available programs and request a secure application link through ChatGPT.

The technology could provide another way to reach customers researching tire purchases and payment plans before visiting a store.

“Shoppers are already asking AI where to buy. Retailers need a way to turn those conversations into sales opportunities,” says Matthew Dishman, president and CEO of LendPro. “Our ChatGPT plugin connects purchase intent with a participating store and a path to establish buying power. When a customer receives a pre-approval, the merchant knows about it and can take action.”

Potential benefits for tire dealers

The launch expands LendPro's existing financing software platform into merchant lead generation, connecting customer discovery, financing applications and retailer follow-up tools.

Through LendPro's platform, shoppers can submit one application that may generate multiple financing offers or approvals, depending on the providers configured for the selected retailer and individual financing decisions.

When a customer receives financing preapproval, LendPro notifies the participating store, allowing employees to follow up, discuss available products and help the customer move forward with a purchase.

Participating retailers can also use LendPro's merchant portal to review customer application activity, financing status and results.

“A preapproved customer gives the store a more informed starting point,” says Dishman. “The associate can help that customer shop within an identified financing amount, answer questions and complete the remaining steps. LendPro brings that opportunity into the merchant’s existing workflow.”

For tire dealerships, the potential benefit is reaching consumers who are actively searching for both tires and financing options. The platform could also help store employees engage with customers who have already begun exploring their purchasing power.

How the ChatGPT plugin works

Consumers can use the LendPro plugin in ChatGPT to search for participating retailers by product category and location.

For example, a shopper could ask, "@LendPro Find a tire shop offering payment plans near ZIP code 77356."

The plugin searches for participating retailers and allows shoppers to explore financing programs associated with a selected location.

Customers who want to apply can request a secure application link. Applications are completed through LendPro's website rather than within ChatGPT.

The platform supports financing options that may include revolving credit, installment loans and lease-to-own programs, depending on each participating retailer's configured providers.

LendPro says the plugin builds on its existing financing infrastructure and lender integrations, connecting AI-assisted shopping with merchant notifications, reporting and customer engagement tools.

LendPro is not a lender. Financing decisions and terms are determined by individual providers and viewing available financing programs does not constitute prequalification or approval. Multiple financing offers or approvals are possible but are not guaranteed.

Retailers interested in participating can learn more at MyLendPro.com.