Then & Now | The Evolution of Self-Storage
In the realm of space saving and environment improving solutions, self storage has emerged as a game changer. Over the years, our industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from humble beginnings to a thriving sector that caters to a wide range of needs. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore how self storage has changed over time.
Once upon a time, in the early days of self storage, facilities were often small-scale operations. These mom-and-pop-style local shops provided basic storage units, usually in the form of garages or warehouse spaces. The concept was simple: individuals and businesses could rent these spaces to store their belongings on a short-term or long-term basis. It was a convenient solution for those needing extra room or facing transitional periods in their lives and a simple business model for the owner.
Fast forward to the present day, self storage has become a multi-billion dollar industry that spans across North America and beyond. The growth and popularity of self storage can be attributed to several factors, including societal changes, evolving lifestyles, and shifting business needs.
One fascinating aspect of this industry’s growth is the sheer amount of space it occupies. North America alone has over 2.3 billion square feet of self storage space available—an astonishing figure of roughly 7.3 square feet of storage per person. To put it in perspective, that’s enough storage space to fit the entire population of the United States under one roof! Or to fill a parking lot of military tanks driven by everyone in Canada with room to spare.
The rise of self storage can be linked to various societal changes. As urbanization increased, living spaces became smaller, and people started seeking alternative solutions to accommodate their belongings. Additionally, the growing trend of minimalist lifestyles, where individuals embrace a more streamlined and clutter-free existence, has also contributed to the surge in demand for self storage units.
Businesses have also embraced the advantages of self storage. From retail stores to e-commerce enterprises, companies recognize the value of having accessible, off-site storage to manage inventory, seasonal items, and documents. Our self storage facilities now offer specialized options, such as climate controlled units for storing delicate items like artwork or wine collections, further expanding the appeal and versatility.
Put simply, we tend to have a lot more stuff these days. In a world where you can learn more than ever, travel further and more accessible than ever, and try just about anything, we naturally adopt new habits and acquire the goods that bring these activities and memories to life.
Technological advancements have played a significant role in transforming the self storage landscape. Online booking systems and digital security measures have made the process more convenient and secure for customers. Mini Mall Storage’s facilities offer app-partnered smart locks and 24-hour surveillance systems, providing peace of mind and ease of use. It’s only the beginning!
As the industry continues to evolve, we will continue to lead the way with innovations and adaptations that meet the ever-changing needs of individuals and businesses. From advancements in security and automation to accessibility initiatives, the future of self storage holds endless possibilities at Mini Mall.
Each time we walk into a Mini Mall self storage facility, we are proud of the advancements we’ve adopted. With our state-of-the-art security systems, the mix of unit sizes, and our expert staff, those moments are full of appreciation. From humble beginnings to the multi-billion dollar juggernaut it is today, self storage has transformed how we store our belongings, offering countless individuals convenience, flexibility, and peace of mind.
Discover how we are leading the industry with better storage solutions than ever here on our site, or read our blog about our tech advancements in self storage.