The Company is a self-administered and self-managed real estate company that
acquires, owns and manages self-storage properties. We refer to the self-storage
properties in which we have an ownership interest, lease, and/or are managed
by us as “Properties.” We began operations on June 26, 1995. We
were formed to continue the business of our predecessor company, which had engaged
in the self-storage business since 1985.
We believe that self-storage facilities offer inexpensive storage space to
residential and commercial users. In addition to fully enclosed and secure storage
space, many facilities also offer outside storage for automobiles, recreational
vehicles and boats. Modern facilities, such as those owned and/or managed by
the Company, are usually fenced and well lighted with automated access systems,
surveillance cameras, and have a full-time manager. Our customers rent space
on a month-to-month basis and typically have access to their storage space up
to 15 hours a day and in certain circumstances are provided with 24-hour access.
Individual storage spaces are secured by the customer’s lock, and the
customer has control of access to the space.
According to the 2018 Self-Storage Almanac, of the estimated 44,000 core self-storage
facilities in the United States (those properties identified as having self-storage
operated as the core business at the address), approximately 19.2% are managed
by the ten largest operators. This results in a highly fragmented industry as
the remainder of the industry is characterized by numerous small, local operators.
The scarcity of capital available to small operators for acquisitions and expansions,
internet marketing, call centers, and the potential for savings through economies
of scale are factors that are leading to consolidation in the industry. We believe
that, as a result of this trend, significant growth opportunities exist for
operators with proven management systems and sufficient capital resources to
grow either through acquisitions or third-party management platforms.
We have over 30 years of experience acquiring and managing self-storage facilities,
and the combined experience of our key personnel makes us one of the leaders
in the industry. We employ the following strategies with respect to our property
management:
Our People:
We recognize the importance of quality people to the success of an organization.
Accordingly, we hire and train to ensure that associates can reach their full
potential. We strive to ensure that each associate conducts themselves in accordance
with our core values: Teamwork, Respect, Accountability, Integrity, and Innovation.
In turn, we support them with state of the art training tools including an online
learning management system, a company intranet and a network of certified training
personnel. Every store team also has frequent, and sometimes daily, interaction
with an Area Manager, a Regional Vice President, an Accounting Representative,
and other support personnel. As such, our store associates are held to high
standards for customer service, store appearance, financial performance, and
overall operations.
Training & Development:
Our employees benefit from a wide array of training and development opportunities.
New store employees undergo a comprehensive, proprietary training program designed
to drive sales and operational results while ensuring the delivery of quality
customer service. To supplement their initial training, employees enjoy continuing
edification, coaching, and performance feedback, including customer satisfaction
surveying, throughout their tenure.
All learning and development activities are facilitated through our online
training and development portal. This portal delivers and tracks hundreds of
computer-based training and compliance courses; it also administers tests, surveys,
and the employee appraisal process. The Company’s training and development
program encompasses the tools and support we deem essential to the success of
our employees and business.
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