by Kim Kilpatrick
July 15, 2011 5:26 PM
There is an old saying that states that a man is only as good as his word. If a man does not back up what he says than the quality of his character comes into question. For businesses, it is a little different though. While it would be nice for people in the business world to stick to their guns when it comes to what they believe in and say, in the end many will not if whatever the issue is could cost them money.
For people at one self storage company, being honest about their beliefs is not an issue for them. They are in fact prepared to celebrate their beleif in one issue.
Manhattan Mini Storage is going to be giving away a gift of free self storage to married couples come July 24. However, not every married couple will be eligible for this gift; only newly married gay couples. July 24 happens to be the day when gay couples can legally get married in New York City.
"We're thrilled to be witnesses at this historic event. It's truly an honor to be there on the big day and share in all of these great love stories,” said Stacy Stuart, vice president of marketing. “This will give us a chance to congratulate the couples, set them up with some free storage, and spread the word that New York City is the best place on earth to live and love.
Representatives of the self storage company will be at City Hall on July 24 to present the newlyweds with their gift. They will also be looking to videotape testimonials from couples talking about their love; the video will later be posted on Facebook and Twitter.
Manhattan Mini Storage has never been one to shy away from controversial topics. During the summer they ran an ad campaign that stated,” If you don’t like gay marriage, don’t get gay married.” They have also been advocates for NYC AIDS Walk, Partnership for the Homeless, and a number of other causes.
At first glance, one might think that a company that is willing to put themselves out like that must be run by a young group of people or a very liberal board, but it is in fact a family owned business and has been for more than 40 years.
Ask them if they are concerned about losing business for doing what they are doing and they will likely say that if supporting gay marriage can cause them to lose a tenant, than it is probably a tenant that they do not want.
However, when people see that they (Manhattan Mini Storage) are willing to stand up for an important issue, gay or not, they will see a company that cares and will likely do whatever it takes to make their tenants happy.
Sounds like standing up for one’s beliefs must be good business, for self storage companies as well as anyone else.
Sources Used:
“Manhattan Mini Storage to Help Celebrate Same-Sex Marriage in New York.” Inside Self Storage; 14 July 2011.
“Come To Manhattan Mini Storage's Big Fat Gay Wedding Celebration.” Digital Journal; 13 July 2011.