Self-storage has seen a lot of growth recently. The pandemic has wreaked havoc on the industry, and its investors have taken a battering. However, as the pandemic seems to be retreating, the changes to the industry may be profound and ripple well into the future. Globe Street mentioned that, at the start of the pandemic, the industry was taking a beating, but that it was resilient. This consideration has proven to be accurate as many self-storage facilities are once again starting to see positive returns. The industry even performs better in paying back its loans, according to MPA Mag. Even so, what does the future hold for the self-storage industry moving forward?
Stable Occupancy Expected
People are moving from the city to small towns. They might have more space to take their stuff when they go, meaning fewer patrons of self-storage facilities. However, enough core self-storage users seem to be staying put, ensuring that business continues as usual. The business outlook for self-storage seems to be that stable occupancy will remain. Most people refuse to part with their stuff and will go to great lengths to hold onto it. Many individuals that were previously employed may default on their payments, but they may not make up the majority of clients. Business clients have been resilient throughout the pandemic, giving the self-storage industry hope that their long-term contracts will remain undisturbed.
Fresh Investment Into the Sector
Investors know a good deal when they see one. While the industry isn’t as volatile as other areas, investors searching for a long-term, steady return are likely to look more favorably on the sector. Several Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) have bought into the industry to reduce their risk while ensuring a return for their investors. With the pandemic seeing several businesses and chain stores defaulting on their property payments, the time is ripe for new purchases to improve access to emerging markets. Good facilities that are getting great offers in favorable locations will retain this positive action into the future.
Upgrading Means Better Competitiveness
For individuals who operate self-storage facilities, upgrading should be among their most pressing concerns. If a business intends to compete in the market, especially among larger, more well-financed enterprises, upgrading their storage facilities could give them an edge. With smaller investors looking to get into the market, finding capital shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Loans may not be the best way forward, although lending criteria are likely to be relaxed to draw in more business.
What Does the Future Hold?
The trends mentioned above are based on understanding how the market has performed thus far and the current conditions. The self-storage market shows a lot of promise worldwide since people will always need a place to store their extra stuff. But will it continue to perform? Unlike businesses like the best wedding venues, self-storage facilities can’t count on seasonal demand. They need to be at the top of their game through the year and offer customers good value for money. At the same time, investment is good because of the promise of growth. However, that steady investment all depends on the state of the economy. Investors are likely to be keeping a weather eye on the situation to adapt if anything changes.
