How to “Write Your Next Chapter” was the presiding theme at this year’s Inside Self-Storage World Expo that just wrapped up in Las Vegas. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the expo attracted hundreds of self-storage owners, operators, investors, builders and vendors from across the country. Attendees looked to the future with the realization that competition is growing more rigorous each year and it is important to be up on the latest technologies.
This week’s three-day event on March 14-16, included exhibits, seminars and workshops centered around education and on providing tools to ensure a facility is operating to its full potential.
“Operators are focusing on the core elements of their business,” said Try Bix, publisher of Inside Self-Storage magazine. “They’re seeking training for themselves and their employees, and they’re looking at new marketing and technology tools. The expo is a dynamic event where they can learn from other storage professionals, attend seminars and meet with suppliers in the industry.”
Lien sales were of particular interest at this year’s show, mostly due to the increased interest in storage auctions precipitated by the hit TV show “Storage Wars” that has put a spotlight on the self storage industry. As defaulted rental contracts increase, how to run and safe and secure auction was of particular interest. Self Storage Associations across the country are lobbying legislators to streamline the lien laws and update the process of tenant notification.
Another hot topic was technology. The expo hosted several technology seminars as well as a Technology Marketplace where attendees were invited to talk to technology vendors and experts about the latest in software, online marketing, security and others.
“Technology is really changing how operators market their facilities,” said Robert Chiti, president of OpenTech Alliance Inc., makers of the INSOMNIAC kiosks. “It can help them be more efficient and save money.”
Looking to the future, the next ISS World Expo will be held in Tacoma, Wash. On Oct. 4-6 at the Hotel Murano and the Greater Tacoma Convention & Trade Center. The annual fall conference will include three education tracks covering marketing, management, construction, finance and more. There will also be several workshops, networking events, and two days of exhibits with more than 75 of the industry’s leading suppliers. In addition, the show will feature education and exhibits specific to the Canadian self-storage audience.
Sources Used:
“Dynamic Education and Exhibits Entice Inside Self-Storage World Expo Attendees Year After Year.” Inside Self-Storage. March 16, 2011.