Author: Martin Wilk

  • Air Flow Management in Self-Storage: Ensuring the Safety and Condition of Your Belongings

    In the realm of the self-storage industry, the primary goal is to keep belongings locked and secured in a safe place. However, the safety of goods stored in a self-storage unit extends beyond merely keeping them away from unauthorized access or out of sight from others. Clients of self-storage facilities also seek to maintain their items in good condition, highlighting the importance of air flow management in making an informed decision on which self-storage company to choose.

    The last thing any self-storage client wants is to encounter the condensation effect and a dew point inside their self-storage unit. Proper air flow management plays a crucial role in preventing these issues, ensuring that stored items remain in pristine condition over time.

    The Role of Good Ventilation in Self-Storage

    Good ventilation within a self-storage facility ensures a stable flow of air, mitigating the risk of condensation and the accumulation of moisture. Effective ventilation works by exchanging indoor air with fresh outdoor air, thereby regulating the internal environment. This exchange helps maintain a balance in air quality and temperature, crucial for preventing the dew point from being reached inside the storage units.

    Managing Humidity in Self-Storage

    Managing humidity is paramount in self-storage facilities. Excessive humidity can lead to mold growth, corrosion, and other forms of moisture damage. Good practices in managing humidity include the use of dehumidifiers, ensuring that the storage facility is well-sealed and insulated, and employing moisture-absorbing materials within storage units. These measures help in maintaining an optimal humidity level, safeguarding the condition of stored items.

    Controlled Temperature in Self-Storage

    Controlled temperature plays a vital role in the longevity and preservation of stored items, especially those sensitive to temperature fluctuations, such as electronics, artworks, and musical instruments. A self-storage facility with climate control can maintain a consistent temperature, preventing the adverse effects of extreme cold or heat on stored belongings.

    Ventilation Systems with Stable Air Circulation

    A good ventilation system with stable air circulation is essential for maintaining a healthy environment within self-storage units. Such systems are designed to continuously circulate air, preventing stagnation and ensuring that temperature and humidity levels are kept within safe parameters. This not only helps in preventing condensation and mould growth but also contributes to the overall air quality, making the storage environment more conducive to preserving stored items in their optimal condition.

    Dew-Point and Condensation

    The concepts of dew-point and condensation are fundamental in understanding how moisture can affect self-storage units and the items stored within them. Managing these factors is crucial to prevent damage to stored items, especially those sensitive to moisture, such as electronics, metal objects prone to rust, and materials susceptible to mold and mildew.

    Dew-Point

    The dew-point temperature is the temperature at which air becomes fully saturated with moisture and can hold no more water vapor. When air cools to its dew-point without changing its pressure or amount of moisture, the excess moisture is forced to condense into liquid water. The dew-point temperature is an important indicator of the air’s moisture content; the higher the dew-point, the more moisture the air contains.

    Condensation

    Condensation occurs when moist air comes into contact with a surface that is at or below the dew-point temperature. At this point, the water vapor in the air turns into liquid water on the cooler surface. This is the same process that causes water droplets to form on the outside of a cold beverage glass on a warm day.

    Impact on Self-Storage

    In self-storage units, the effect of dew-point and condensation can lead to several issues:

    • Moisture Damage: Condensation can cause moisture accumulation on surfaces and objects within the storage unit. This is particularly concerning for items that are sensitive to moisture, as it can lead to corrosion, mold, and mildew growth.
    • Temperature Fluctuations: Daily and seasonal temperature fluctuations can exacerbate condensation issues, especially if the storage unit is not climate-controlled. When the temperature inside a storage unit drops below the dew-point, condensation is likely to occur.
    • Airflow and Insulation: Poor ventilation and insulation can contribute to condensation problems. Adequate airflow helps keep temperature and humidity levels stable, while proper insulation can prevent the interior surfaces of the storage unit from becoming cold enough to cause condensation.

    Mitigation Strategies

    To mitigate the effects of dew-point and condensation in self-storage, consider the following strategies:

    • Use Climate-Controlled Units: These units maintain a stable temperature and humidity level, reducing the risk of reaching the dew-point temperature inside the unit.
    • Improve Ventilation: Good airflow can help reduce moisture levels and prevent the accumulation of condensation on surfaces.
    • Use Desiccants: Placing desiccant materials (like silica gel) inside the storage unit can help absorb excess moisture from the air.
    • Insulate Sensitive Items: Wrapping items that are sensitive to moisture in insulation materials can help protect them from the effects of condensation.

    By understanding and managing the effects of dew-point and condensation, self-storage users can better protect their belongings from moisture-related damage.

    Climate Challenges in Poland: A Case Study of Less Mess

    In some parts of the world, maintaining the right balance in humidity and temperature is a significant challenge, with the climate in Poland presenting unique difficulties in managing dew-point and condensation levels effectively. Companies like Less Mess are pioneers in addressing these challenges head-on. The climate in Poland, with its varying temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year, makes it particularly challenging to maintain optimal conditions within self-storage facilities.

    Less Mess builds their self-storage buildings with these specific challenges in mind. Each building is meticulously planned and designed for the purposes of self-storage, with a keen focus on monitoring all the important air indexes inside and outside the building. Thanks to their advanced ventilation infrastructure, Less Mess is able to manage the dew point and prevent condensation inside the building effectively, setting a benchmark in air flow management within the self-storage industry.

    Managing dew point and condensation is notably more challenging in below-ground floors, such as basements or subterranean storage units, due to several factors:

    1. Temperature Gradients

    Below-ground environments naturally maintain a more constant temperature year-round but are often cooler than the air above ground, especially during warmer months. This temperature difference is crucial because cooler temperatures are closer to the dew point temperature, making condensation more likely. When warm, moist air from the outside or upper levels comes into contact with the cooler surfaces below ground, it cools down rapidly to its dew point, leading to condensation on walls, floors, and stored items.

    1. Reduced Air Circulation

    Basements and underground spaces typically have limited airflow compared to above-ground spaces. Poor ventilation exacerbates moisture issues because it prevents the equalization of air temperature and humidity levels with the outside environment. Without adequate ventilation, moist air lingers longer, increasing the risk of reaching the dew point and causing condensation.

    1. Ground Moisture

    Subterranean environments are in direct contact with the earth, which can be a constant source of moisture due to groundwater and soil moisture. This moisture can seep through floors and walls, adding to the humidity level inside the space. The presence of additional moisture from the ground makes it harder to manage humidity levels and prevent condensation.

    1. Evaporation and Seepage

    Water from the surrounding soil can seep into below-ground spaces through cracks and pores in concrete or masonry. Additionally, evaporation from the ground or walls contributes to higher humidity levels inside. This natural process of moisture migration from the surrounding earth into the interior space complicates efforts to control humidity and prevent condensation.
    Mitigation Strategies

    Given these challenges, several strategies can be employed to manage dew point and condensation in below-ground floors:

    Enhanced Ventilation: Improve air circulation through mechanical ventilation systems to help regulate humidity and temperature levels.
Dehumidification: Use dehumidifiers to actively remove moisture from the air, keeping humidity levels below the point where condensation occurs.
Waterproofing: Apply waterproofing measures to walls and floors to prevent moisture seepage from the surrounding soil.
Insulation: Proper insulation can help maintain a more consistent interior temperature, reducing the likelihood of surfaces reaching the dew point.
Heating: In colder climates or seasons, maintaining a slight increase in temperature can help prevent the interior space from reaching the dew point.

    By understanding and addressing these specific challenges, it is possible to mitigate the effects of dew point and condensation in below-ground storage spaces, protecting stored items from moisture damage.

    Conclusion

    Air flow management is a critical factor to consider when choosing a self-storage provider. It encompasses good ventilation, humidity control, temperature regulation, and stable air circulation, all of which are essential for preserving the condition of stored items. Facilities like Less Mess in Poland exemplify the industry’s best practices in overcoming the challenges posed by local climates. By prioritising air flow management, self-storage companies can ensure the safety and preservation of clients’ belongings, reinforcing the trust placed in them to protect what matters most.

  • Access Control Systems in Self-storage

    One of the most important questions before choosing the best, most suitable self-storage is not just about space or location; it’s about access and security. How do these facilities ensure that your belongings are both accessible and safe? The answer lies in the sophistication and efficiency of their Access Control Systems.

    The Importance of Access Control in Self-storage

    A top-notch Access Control System is not merely a feature; it’s a necessity for modern self-storage facilities. These systems are pivotal for providing peace of mind to clients, ensuring that their stored items are secure and accessible only to them. A reliable Access Control System transforms a self-storage facility into a veritable fortress, safeguarding possessions while granting easy access to the rightful owners.

    When evaluating a self-storage provider, consider the following crucial aspects:

    • 24/7 Access: Does the facility offer round-the-clock access? This feature is essential for clients who may need to retrieve or store items at unconventional hours.
    • Safety and Notifications: An ideal system should not only deter unauthorized access but also notify you of any activity regarding your unit.
    • Integration with CCTV: A system that works in tandem with CCTV enhances security by providing visual monitoring and recording access events.
    • Cost of Convenience: Inquire whether there are additional fees for conveniences such as changing PINs or access methods.

    Diversity in Access Control Systems

    The industry boasts a variety of Access Control Systems, each with its unique method of ensuring security and convenience:

    • PIN Codes: A simple yet effective method, allowing access through a personal identification number.
    • Fobs: Key fobs provide a physical token that grants access, often preferred for their simplicity and the added security of having a physical key.
    • Mobile Apps: The use of smartphones for access is on the rise, offering convenience and the ability to control access remotely.
    • Debit Cards: Unique numbers from personal debit cards can also serve as an access method, adding a layer of security by tying access to a personal banking tool.

    Examples on the Market

    There are several notable Access Control Systems available in the self-storage industry:

    • Janus: A well-known provider offering robust access control solutions tailored for self-storage facilities.
    • Sensoberg: Renowned for its innovative system controls, enhancing security and user experience.
    • Less Mess Storage: This company has taken a step further by developing its own flexible system. It supports various access methods including PINs, fobs, credit cards, and is set to introduce a dedicated mobile app, showcasing their commitment to customer convenience and security.

    Conclusion: A Decisive Factor in Choosing Self-storage

    An Access Control System is a critical attribute that clients should consider before settling on the right self-storage company. The choice of system greatly impacts the security and convenience of accessing stored items. While this article presents an overview of the types and benefits of various systems, the decision ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences. Whether it’s through PIN codes, fobs, mobile apps, or debit cards, the right Access Control System can make all the difference in enhancing your self-storage experience.

  • Columbia Arson Case: Suspect Arrested in Connection with Self-Storage Complex Fire

    COLUMBIA – In a significant development, Columbia police detectives have arrested 44-year-old Dionne Denise Houston on charges related to a recent arson case. The arrest, made on Wednesday in the 600 block of Wilkes Boulevard, marks a crucial step in the investigation of a fire that ravaged a self-storage complex on Nebraska Avenue on December 12.

    The incident, which drew the attention of both police and fire services, occurred at the I-70 Mini Storage facility. Firefighters were dispatched in the early morning hours after receiving multiple reports of a fire at the location. Upon arrival, they were met with intense smoke and flames emanating from the one-story self-storage building. The fire, which caused an estimated $100,000 in damages, was efficiently controlled within 30 minutes.

    Investigations led by the city’s fire marshal concluded that the fire originated from inside one of the storage units and was deliberately set. This determination of arson set the stage for the involvement of Columbia police detectives in the case.

    Key evidence that led to Houston’s arrest came from security footage obtained from the storage facility. The footage reportedly shows Houston making multiple visits to the unit throughout the night. Most notably, she was observed leaving the building at a calm pace even as the structure was visibly engulfed in flames.

    Dionne Denise Houston now faces second-degree arson charges. She is currently being held at the Boone County Jail, with her bond set at $10,000. The case highlights the effective collaboration between the city’s fire and police departments in addressing and solving serious criminal incidents.

    As the legal proceedings against Houston move forward, the community awaits further details and developments. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of arson and its impact on property and public safety.

    https://www.komu.com/news/midmissourinews/arrest-made-after-arson-at-columbia-self-storage-unit/

  • Navigating the Shift from Brick-and-Mortar to Online Retail

    Navigating the Shift from Brick-and-Mortar to Online Retail

    In the ever-evolving landscape of retail, many traditional brick-and-mortar store owners are contemplating a significant shift in their business model: transitioning to online sales. This change, often driven by economic challenges and the high costs of maintaining physical stores, isn’t just a survival strategy but can be a transformative move towards growth and innovation.

    Embracing Change in Retail: The E-commerce Opportunity

    E-commerce presents a world of opportunities with fewer limitations compared to physical stores, especially in terms of customer reach. The transition to online sales is not restricted by age or stage in your career. Whether you’re considering a career change in your 30s, 40s, or beyond, it’s never too late to adapt and grow. The beauty of e-commerce lies in its lower overhead costs and a broader market – your potential customers are no longer just the residents of your neighborhood or city.

    Leveraging Self-Storage for Your Online Business

    One of the key aspects of this transition is rethinking your physical space requirements. Moving from a high-foot-traffic location to a more affordable space can significantly reduce overhead costs. Self-storage units offer an ideal solution for online retailers. These units can securely store not only your inventory but also promotional materials and important documents. They can even partially handle logistics, such as receiving deliveries and preparing packages for shipment. This setup frees you from the constraints of waiting for courier services, as the self-storage staff can manage these interactions.

    Self-storage facilities offer 24/7 access, ensuring that you can manage your inventory at any time. These units are equipped with modern security systems, alarm systems, and optimal conditions to protect your goods from theft, damage, or adverse environmental conditions. Additionally, the availability of wifi and power outlets in these units makes it convenient to manage orders or charge electronic devices on the go.

    Flexibility and Scalability with Self-Storage

    One of the most significant advantages of using self-storage for your online business is the flexibility it offers. As your business grows, you can easily adjust the size of your storage space without the hassle of extensive paperwork or long-term commitments. This adaptability is crucial for businesses in the dynamic e-commerce sector.

    In conclusion, transitioning from a brick-and-mortar store to an online retail business is not a sign of defeat but a strategic move towards adapting to the modern marketplace. With the support of self-storage facilities, entrepreneurs can navigate this change more efficiently, ensuring the safety and accessibility of their inventory while minimizing costs and maximizing potential. This shift is not just about survival but about seizing new opportunities in the digital age.

  • Janus International Expands Operations with New Manufacturing Plant in Wrocław, Poland

    Wrocław, Poland – Janus International, a leader in the self-storage industry, has announced the opening of its new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Wrocław, Poland. This expansion signifies a strategic move by the company to bolster its presence in the European market.

    Ramey Jackson, CEO of Janus International Group, expressed enthusiasm about the new facility, highlighting its role in the company’s growth strategy in Europe. “The Wrocław plant represents our thoughtful approach to expanding in the European self-storage market. Our goal is to serve our customers effectively as a global organization,” said Jackson. He also acknowledged the efforts of Colin Jeromson and his team in making this expansion successful.

    Colin Jeromson, Managing Director of Janus International Europe Ltd, emphasized the company’s commitment to operational excellence and the production of high-quality, sustainable products. “We are the market-leading self-storage manufacturer and the only full-solution provider in this sector. Our expansion into Poland strengthens our capabilities,” Jeromson stated. He also expressed gratitude towards local partners including Prologis, Argon Legal, and Cushman & Wakefield.

    The new factory’s first delivery is slated for Less Mess Storage, a prominent operator in the region. Guy Pinsent, CEO of Less Mess Storage, praised Janus’s product quality and service. “The cooperation with Janus helps us maintain our market leadership in Poland and the Czech Republic. The new Wrocław factory will further enhance our partnership and our ability to offer top-quality self-storage solutions,” Pinsent remarked.

    Janus International’s expansion into Poland, with its new Wrocław facility, marks a significant step in its journey towards becoming a dominant player in the European self-storage market. The company’s focus on quality, sustainability, and customer service continues to drive its success and growth.

    Janus International Europe is a global pioneer in providing sustainable self-storage solutions. As an expert in the field, the company specializes in consulting, designing, manufacturing, and installing self-storage units worldwide. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, Janus International Europe stands out as a leading supplier and manufacturer in the self-storage industry.

    The company’s expertise extends beyond traditional storage solutions. It is also at the forefront of facility automation and access control technology, evidenced by its provision of the award-winning Nokē Smart Entry system. This system represents a significant advancement in security and convenience for self-storage facilities, showcasing the company’s dedication to integrating cutting-edge technology into its offerings.

    With its head office and manufacturing plant located in the UK, Janus International Europe boasts a global reach. The company maintains strong connections with facilities in key regions such as the USA, Asia, and Australia, enabling it to serve a diverse and international client base effectively. This extensive network underscores Janus International Europe’s position as a global leader in the self-storage sector, committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable, and technologically advanced storage solutions.

  • Europe/UK Self-Storage Operator Safestore Reports Steady Growth in 4Q 2023

    Safestore Holdings PLC, a prominent self-storage operator with locations across Europe and the United Kingdom, has unveiled its interim financial results for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023, concluding on October 31. The report indicates a positive trajectory in revenue and average rental rates for the majority of its portfolio.

    In the reported period, Safestore witnessed a 1.4% increase in total revenue, reaching £57.6 million. However, the group’s “like-for-like” growth experienced a minor decline of 0.4%, measured using a constant exchange rate (CER). Notably, the average rental rates across the company’s portfolio rose by 2% to £30.22, and for same-store facilities, the increase was even more significant at 2.8%, bringing the rate to £31.57.

    Despite these financial upticks, occupancy rates presented a mixed picture. Overall occupancy for Safestore’s portfolio was reported at 77%, a decrease from the previous year’s 82.1%. Same-store occupancy also saw a drop, falling by 3.2% to 79.6% from 82.8% in the previous year. However, the company’s Paris locations stood out with the highest closing occupancy rate of 81.3% during this period.

    In addition to its operational performance, Safestore has actively expanded its physical footprint. The quarter saw the opening of four new facilities and the completion of one expansion project, collectively adding 150,100 rentable square feet to its portfolio. Looking ahead, Safestore has ambitious plans with 30 development projects in the pipeline, expected to add approximately 1.5 million square feet.

    CEO Frederic Vecchioli reflected on the industry’s trends, noting, “The COVID period has acted as an accelerator of growth for the self-storage industry. While demand stabilized below 2022 levels, inquiry levels remain higher than pre-COVID times.” He also emphasized the significant undersupply of high-quality self-storage capacity in the U.K. and Europe, viewing it as a structural growth driver for the industry.

    Safestore currently operates 190 self-storage facilities across Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Its extensive storage properties, totaling about 8.1 million square feet, serve approximately 90,000 customers, positioning the company as a key player in the European and UK self-storage market.

  • Ottawa’s Self-Storage Industry Booms Amid Shrinking Condo Sizes

    Ottawa – The self-storage business in Canada’s capital is experiencing unprecedented growth, a trend closely linked to the increasing prevalence of smaller condominium units. Industry employees in Ottawa report a ‘huge demand’ for self-storage units, with shrinking living spaces cited as a primary driver.

    The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) reveals a significant expansion in the storage sector, with Ontario adding 4.2 million square feet of storage space over the past three years, a jump of 11 percent. Ottawa ranks second in Ontario for self-storage space, boasting over 3 million square feet of units. In comparison, Toronto leads with 43.3 percent of Ontario’s total 19 million square feet of self-storage space, followed by Ottawa’s 15.9 percent and Mississauga’s 10.9 percent.

    Cael Gédéron, an employee at U-Haul’s Coventry Road location, notes the diverse uses of storage units. “Our clients range from those downsizing or moving to contractors needing space for equipment,” he says. Gédéron also mentions the low storage vacancies since February at his location, prompting U-Haul to offer alternatives like trucks, trailers, and containers. On average, people rent storage units for two to three months.

    Matthew Midgley of Self Stor Storage attributes the rise in self-storage demand to decreasing condo sizes, alongside other factors like renovations, travel, retirement, and student storage needs. MPAC data supports this, showing the average size of condos built in 2017 in Ontario’s major urban centers, including Ottawa, decreased significantly compared to those built in the 1990s.

    As condo spaces contract, residents increasingly turn to self-storage solutions. Nationally, one in 10 Canadians now uses storage units. Self-storage consultant Ryan Mantha of Dymon Storage in Ottawa notes the high demand for storage units, citing yearly rent increases and inflation as contributing factors. Mantha, who personally uses a storage unit, observes that local businesses, particularly those downsizing due to home office adaptations during the pandemic, are key drivers of this demand.

    The Canadian storage industry has seen impressive financial growth, generating $7.3 billion in gross revenue this year, a substantial increase since 2012. Local businesses, according to Mantha, are a significant part of this demand, using storage units for inventory and office space.

    Allan Mertick, a home renovator, highlights the practicality and challenges of using self-storage. Having rented a unit for over 12 years, Mertick finds it indispensable for storing tools and supplies, but acknowledges the tendency for items to remain in storage long-term, incurring ongoing costs.

    This surge in Ottawa’s self-storage industry underscores a broader trend of evolving urban living spaces and the adaptive strategies of businesses and residents to manage their spatial needs effectively.

  • Former Debenhams in Swindon Set for Transformation into Urban Self-Storage Centre

    Swindon – The iconic building that once housed Debenhams department store in Swindon, which has been vacant for over three years, is set to receive a new lease on life. Away Storage Ltd has received approval from Swindon Borough Council to transform this landmark building into an ‘urban self-storage’ facility, bringing a new utility to the heart of the town.

    The Debenhams store, a staple of Swindon’s retail landscape, closed its doors in June 2020. Since then, the prominent building, located at the intersection of Fleming Way and The Parade, has remained unoccupied. This new development project by Away Storage Ltd aims to repurpose the building while retaining a portion of its commercial essence.

    The plan includes the creation of four retail units on the ground floor, accessible from The Parade, offering space for other businesses to operate. This aspect of the proposal seems to have played a crucial role in winning over some of the planners at the council, who initially expressed reservations about converting such a central and accessible location into a storage facility.

    Away Storage Ltd addressed these concerns by highlighting the lack of interest in the property for retail use since its closure. They pointed out the risk of further deterioration and obsolescence of the building, emphasizing the changing dynamics of shopping preferences, with a shift towards smaller retail spaces, flexible leases, and online shopping.

    The company’s approach to urban self-storage is centered on revitalizing town centers by repurposing large, empty units like the former Debenhams store. They aim to provide sustainable solutions that serve the needs of city-center residents and local businesses, within easy reach of public transport and major highways.

    Despite some concerns from the council’s planning policy officer about the low-density use of such a prime town center location and the building’s functional relationship to Fleming Way, the proposal was eventually approved. A key condition for the approval is that the four ground-floor retail units must be prepared for occupancy and actively marketed before any self-storage units become operational.

    This development represents a significant change in the use of prime urban real estate, reflecting evolving retail trends and the growing demand for centrally located storage solutions in urban areas.

  • Dentons Facilitates Top Box’s €69 Million Sale to European Self-Storage Giant Shurgard

    Frankfurt – In a significant move in the self-storage industry, the renowned global law firm Dentons has successfully guided Top Box in its €69 million sale to Shurgard, Europe’s leading self-storage provider. This major transaction was executed through a competitive bidding process, marking a notable expansion for Shurgard in the European market.

    As a result of this deal, Shurgard, known for its extensive network of self-storage facilities across Europe, will acquire five strategically located properties from Top Box. These properties, boasting a combined storage space of approximately 17,100 square meters, are situated in key German cities: Essen, Duisburg, Cologne, Wiesbaden, and Mannheim. This acquisition is seen as a strategic move for Shurgard, further cementing its position as the largest self-storage provider on the continent.

    Shurgard’s impressive portfolio includes 273 self-storage facilities, which account for a total of 1.4 million rentable square meters spread across Germany, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Belgium, and Denmark. This acquisition from Top Box is expected to enhance Shurgard’s offering in Germany, allowing for greater accessibility and options for customers seeking self-storage solutions.

    The successful completion of this deal underscores Dentons’ expertise and reputation in facilitating major transactions in the real estate sector. This latest achievement further solidifies the law firm’s position as a go-to advisor for significant mergers and acquisitions in the European market.

    The industry awaits to see how this acquisition will influence the dynamics of the self-storage market in Europe and how Shurgard will integrate these new properties into its expansive network. This deal not only represents a substantial growth for Shurgard but also highlights the increasing demand for self-storage solutions across Europe.

    Summary:

    The global law firm Dentons has successfully advised the self-storage company Top Box on its recent sale to Shurgard for €69 million. This transaction was a part of a competitive bidding process, and it involves Shurgard acquiring five Top Box properties, totaling approximately 17,100 square meters, located in various German cities including Essen, Duisburg, Cologne, Wiesbaden, and Mannheim.

    Shurgard, a leading self-storage provider in Europe, manages 273 facilities across Germany, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Belgium, and Denmark, covering a total of 1.4 million square meters available for rent.

    The Dentons team, comprising professionals from its Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, and Munich offices, offered comprehensive legal guidance to Top Box throughout the sale. The team was led by Dr. Clemens Maschke and included experts in various fields such as corporate/M&A, real estate, tax, and foreign trade law.

    Shurgard: From Humble Beginnings to European Self-Storage Leader

    Shurgard’s journey in the self-storage industry is a story of remarkable growth and strategic expansion. It all began in 1995, in Brussels, with a simple yet innovative idea: providing a reliable space for people to store their personal belongings. This first center in Brussels marked the beginning of a new era in self-storage solutions, catering to the evolving needs of urban residents and businesses.

    In the years following its inception, Shurgard rapidly expanded its footprint. New self-storage centers sprang up, one after another, mirroring the growing demand for flexible and secure storage options. Today, Shurgard stands as the largest provider of self-storage in Europe, a testament to its vision and commitment to customer service.

    Shurgard’s network now encompasses over 270 self-storage centers, strategically located in seven European countries. This impressive coverage includes most capital cities and major urban areas in the Netherlands, France, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Germany, and Denmark. This widespread presence not only signifies Shurgard’s dominance in the market but also ensures accessibility and convenience for a diverse and growing clientele.

    The company’s growth trajectory reflects a deep understanding of the market and an ability to adapt to changing consumer needs. Whether for individuals needing extra space during a move, students seeking temporary storage, or businesses requiring additional inventory space, Shurgard has positioned itself as a reliable and flexible solution.

    Shurgard’s success is rooted in its customer-centric approach, offering a range of storage options tailored to different needs and budgets. Their facilities are known for being clean, secure, and easily accessible, features that have become synonymous with the Shurgard brand.

    As the self-storage industry continues to evolve, Shurgard’s pioneering spirit and commitment to excellence suggest that it will remain at the forefront, driving innovation and setting standards in the market. What started in Brussels has now become a leading European business story, showcasing the power of a simple idea executed with precision and care.

  • Store More Mansfield Launches with High-Tech Storage Facilities

    In a significant expansion of its storage services, Store More has proudly announced the opening of its new self-storage site in Mansfield. This latest addition marks a key milestone for the company, which first opened its doors eight years ago in Hull and has since expanded to Wrexham and now, Mansfield.

    Located at the former Wickes building on Chesterfield Road South, the Mansfield site holds sentimental value and historical significance. The building, which served as a vaccination center during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, is now being transformed into a state-of-the-art storage facility.

    Store More Mansfield has kicked off its operations with an impressive 20,000 square feet of completed storage space, with plans to expand to a total of 30,000 square feet. The site’s launch has already seen a flurry of activity, with over 2000 square feet occupied on the opening day and a steady stream of inquiries.

    Katie Garfoot, the site manager at Mansfield, expressed her enthusiasm about joining the local community. She emphasized the site’s advanced features, stating, “Our units are powered by technology, with top security.” The company prides itself on providing secure, tech-driven storage solutions, catering to both individual and business needs.

    Store More’s commitment to the community is also reflected in their introductory offer – a 12-week half-price deal, making their services more accessible to residents and local businesses. Interested customers can reach out through Store More’s website or directly call at 01623 571916 for inquiries and bookings.

    The business is officially set to open its doors on Monday, November 13, marking a new chapter for Store More and the Mansfield community. With its blend of technological innovation and customer-focused services, Store More Mansfield is poised to become a key player in the local self-storage market.