SSA UK Level Up Conference 2026

Converting Space for Self Storage Bill Brennan, Storage Future

This session explores how existing buildings and unconventional spaces can be successfully transformed into self storage facilities. Aimed at both newcomers and experienced operators, the presentation covers the opportunities, constraints, and key considerations when repurposing assets such as farm buildings, former cinemas, underground car parks and other non-traditional spaces, and warehouses. Attendees will gain practical insight into assessing suitability, overcoming common challenges, and unlocking hidden value through smart conversions.

Planning for Self Storage Mike Cole, Bell Cornwell

An introductory presentation designed for those new to the self storage industry or with limited experience in development and planning. It provides a clear, practical overview of the self storage planning process, covering key considerations, common challenges, and how to navigate them effectively. Attendees will gain a better understanding of what’s involved from early feasibility through to securing planning approval, helping them avoid common pitfalls and approach projects with greater confidence.

How the SSA UK can help you start and thrive Emma Greenwood & Stephen Ramage, SSA UK

This presentation highlights how the association helps operators get started, build knowledge, stay compliant, and grow with confidence through training, networking, industry insights, and ongoing support with practical resources and guidance. Attendees will learn how to make the most of their membership and accelerate their success in the self storage industry.

Transforming Spaces: From Traditional Business to Self Storage Success David McCutcheon, Simple Self Storage

Discover the journey of someone who has successfully transitioned from a different sector (40,000 pallets) into the booming self storage industry. This presentation explores practical strategies, key challenges, and real-world lessons learned, offering actionable insights for anyone considering converting an existing property or business into a profitable self storage operation. Learn how to identify opportunities, optimise spaces, and navigate the conversion process for maximum success.

Getting the Phone Ringing - Driving Enquiries and Bookings for Self Storage Operators Rachel Hand, Storage King Management First

In today’s competitive self storage market, generating consistent, high-quality enquiries is essential for sustained growth. This 20-minute session is designed to equip you with practical, proven strategies to increase inbound calls, online enquiries, and walk-in traffic. The session will highlight how to convert enquiries into confirmed bookings through improved call handling, customer engagement, and follow-up processes. By the end of the presentation, you will understand how to attract more leads, improve enquiry conversion rates, and ultimately increase occupancy and revenue, ensuring your phones keep ringing.

Getting to Grips with Site Security Ben Kelly, OPSYS Fire & Security

Effective security is critical for safeguarding assets, maintaining customer trust, and minimising risk in self storage operations. This presentation will help you understand the key elements of a robust security strategy, helping you to deter theft, prevent unauthorised access, and respond effectively to incidents. Covering essential topics, including access control, CCTV systems, alarm monitoring, perimeter security, and best practices for on-site and remote management, you will learn how to identify vulnerabilities, implement cost-effective security measures, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and industry standards. The presentation will also highlight the role of staff training, customer communication, and technology in creating a secure and professional facility.

How to Manage the Auctions and Clearance Process of Customers’ Goods in Self Storage Andy Marks, Keeper’s Cottage

Managing the auction and clearance of customers’ goods is a critical process for operators, both for regulatory compliance and revenue recovery. This 20-minute presentation is designed to provide operators with practical guidance on handling this sensitive aspect of operations efficiently, legally, and professionally. The presentation session will cover key topics, including documentation, valuation of goods, and the organisation of auctions or clearances. Learn how to minimise risk, maximise returns, and recover value from unoccupied units.

How to Choose a Management System that’s right for you Dan O’Sullivan, Titan Self Storage

Selecting the right management system is one of the most important decisions a self storage operator can make. This presentation is designed to guide you through the process of evaluating and choosing a system that meets your operational needs, enhances efficiency, and supports business growth. Attendees will learn how to assess vendors, compare options, and avoid common pitfalls when implementing a new system. It will cover key considerations, including functionality, scalability, integration with payment and access systems, reporting capabilities, and ease of use for staff.

Why you should choose an MLA-Approved Locksmith Justin Freeman, Master Locksmiths Association

Learn why choosing an MLA-Approved Locksmith isn’t just best practice, it’s a smart risk-management decision. We’ll break down what MLA approval really means, how it protects your business, and why it matters for compliance, security, and customer trust. From lock failures and emergency access to insurance claims and reputational risk, this presentation highlights the real-world consequences of using unvetted contractors and how MLA-Approved Locksmiths help you avoid them. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of the standards, accountability, and peace of mind that come with working with locksmiths who are independently vetted, regularly inspected, and committed to professional excellence. Ideal for operators looking to strengthen site security, protect customers, and ensure you’re working with trusted, fully qualified professionals.

Considering your End Game
Matteo Timpani, Crowe U.K. LLPThis presentation focuses on helping self storage operators prepare for a successful and profitable exit from their business, whether in the near future or as part of long-term strategic planning. The session will outline why early exit planning is essential and how it can significantly enhance business value. Attendees will gain practical insights into business valuation, financial readiness, operational optimisation, and key drivers that attract buyers and investors. The presentation will also cover succession planning, timing considerations, and common mistakes that can reduce sale proceeds or delay transactions. Designed for owners at any stage of their journey, it will provide actionable guidance on building a stronger, more attractive business and ensuring you are prepared when the right exit opportunity arises.

Optimising Site Selection and Use
Paul Whittaker, Flexiss GroupThis presentation explores the key factors that drive successful self storage site selection and development. Designed for operators looking to expand or refine their portfolios, the session will cover how to identify high-performing locations, assess market demand, and evaluate site feasibility. Attendees will gain practical insights into demographic analysis, competitor mapping, planning considerations, development costs, and risk management. It will also highlight common pitfalls and proven strategies to maximise return on investment while minimising development risk. Whether you are planning your first facility or scaling an established network, this session will provide actionable guidance to help you make confident, data-driven development decisions.

Raising Finance to Buy a Self Storage Business
Darren Hodson, PKF Smith CooperThis session will explore practical strategies for raising finance to fund a self storage acquisition. As the self storage market continues to mature, particularly in the external drive-up segment, acquiring an existing business is increasingly becoming a compelling route into the industry. For new entrants, sourcing suitable land and navigating planning can be slow, uncertain and capital-intensive. By contrast, acquisitions offer immediate cash flow, an established customer base and operational proof of concept. We’ll cover how lenders and investors assess storage businesses, what makes a deal bankable, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to structure funding to support both the purchase and future growth.

Recruiting, Training and Retaining a Winning Self Storage Team Susanne Samuel, Hillingdon HR

Focusing on the people side of building a successful self storage operation, this presentation explores how to attract the right talent, develop skills through effective training, and create a positive culture that keeps teams engaged and motivated. Attendees will gain actionable insights into building a high-performing team that delivers excellent customer service and supports long-term business growth.

External Storage Update: Supply and Pricing Insights Sarah Manning, Secure Stores Nationwide

This session will explore the latest forecasts for shipping container pricing and availability, highlighting the global factors shaping the market in the months ahead. Attendees will gain practical insights into expected price movements and tips to help you plan purchases and manage spend with confidence.

Looking After Your Self-Storage Facility: Protecting Assets, Profitability, and Reputation Ricky Williams, Container Team

A well-maintained facility is essential to operational efficiency, but presentation and appearance can directly influence customer perception, retention, and referrals, along with long-term profitability. Covering key areas of facility care, including building upkeep, security systems, access controls, fire safety, cleanliness, pest control, preventative budgeting and maintenance planning, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and regulatory requirements, attendees will learn how regular inspections, timely repairs, and structured maintenance schedules can reduce costs, minimise disruption.

Scaling from Your First to Multiple Sites: Growth Strategies for Self-Storage Operators James Bonny, Bonnys Self Storage

Expanding from a single facility to a multi-site operation requires careful planning, operational discipline, and strategic insight. This presentation is designed to guide operators through the challenges and opportunities of growth, covering key considerations for multi-site expansion, including site selection, market analysis, financing options, staffing, and operational consistency. Attendees will learn how to maintain quality standards across locations and manage the complexities of scaling without compromising customer experience. Position your business for long-term success with actionable strategies and insights to confidently plan, execute, and manage multi-site growth.

AI in your Customer Interactions Tim Brant-Coles, Brant Self Storage

Explore how artificial intelligence is transforming customer engagement in self storage. Designed for operators of all sizes, the session will demonstrate practical ways AI can enhance enquiries, bookings, support, and retention without losing the personal touch that customers value. Attendees will learn how tools such as AI-powered chat, voice assistants, automated follow-ups, and smart CRM systems can improve response times, increase conversion rates, and deliver more consistent service. The presentation will also address data privacy, integration with existing systems, and common implementation challenges. Understand where AI can deliver immediate value, how to get started, and how to use technology to create smoother, more efficient customer experiences.

The Business Finance Lifecycle Alex Henney, Squab Self Storage

Designed for new and emerging self storage operators who want a clear understanding of the financial journey from start-up to sustainable profitability, this session will outline the typical lifecycle of a self storage business, from initial investment and development through to stabilisation, growth, and long-term returns. Attendees will learn what to expect at each stage, including development and opening costs, early trading performance, lease-up timelines, cash flow management, and when facilities typically reach breakeven and profitability. The presentation will also explore funding options, debt management, and strategies for navigating the challenging early years, helping you to plan more confidently, manage expectations, and build financially resilient businesses from day one.

Top 5 Tax Issues for New Self Storage Businesses: Reliefs, Allowances, and More Trevor Ling, Crowe U.K. LLP

Starting a self storage business comes with unique tax considerations that can significantly impact profitability. This presentation highlights the five key tax issues every new self storage business owner should understand, including tax reliefs, capital allowances, VAT implications, business structure decisions, and allowable expenses. Gain practical insights to optimise your tax position, reduce liabilities, and make informed financial decisions from day one.

Add-On Sales and Upselling: Maximising Revenue in Self-Storage Operations Lucy Maidman, Store and Secure

Maximising revenue from every customer interaction is essential. This presentation will provide you with a clear understanding of how to implement effective upselling strategies designed to help identify practical opportunities to increase income while enhancing the customer experience. Exploring how and when to introduce value-added products and services, such as insurance, packaging materials, premium unit locations, extended access, and more, you will learn how to present these options confidently and ethically, ensuring customers see them as helpful solutions rather than sales pressure.

Modernisation and Tech-Driven Efficiency in Self Storage David Hughes, Stora

In today’s increasingly digital self storage landscape, embracing and leveraging modern technology and operational innovation is essential to drive efficiency, improve operational performance, maintain profitability, enhance security and ensure customer satisfaction. This 20-minute presentation is designed to help operators understand how technology can transform every aspect of their business. The session will cover key areas including digital access systems, cloud-based management software, automated billing and reporting, remote monitoring, and customer-facing tools such as online bookings and self-service portals. Attendees will learn how to streamline operations, reduce costs, improve accuracy, and deliver a seamless customer experience. The presentation will also explore strategies for integrating new systems while maintaining service quality and operational control.

Disaster Management
Alison Gallagher-Hughes, Tillymint Marketing & PRIn this session, we will explore how self storage operators can effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises that threaten their reputation, operations, and customer trust. Delivered by a PR specialist, the session will focus on managing both physical and reputational “disasters”, including floods, fires, and security breaches, as well as negative media coverage and online complaints. Attendees will learn how to build a proactive crisis communications plan, respond confidently under pressure, and communicate clearly with customers, staff, and stakeholders during challenging situations. The presentation will also cover media handling, social media management, and strategies for protecting brand credibility when issues arise. Minimise disruption, shape the narrative, and emerge stronger from unexpected events.

Turning Empty Ground into Gold: Monetising Caravan & RV Storage
Becci Bailey, The Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association (CaSSOA)Vacant units erode profitability, but unused land and hard-standing can become high-value assets when approached strategically. This session shows how operators are turning empty space into dependable revenue by accommodating caravans and RVs -whether as a temporary stopgap or a permanent service line. Real-world case studies reveal what works, what to avoid, and how to integrate vehicle storage without disrupting core operations. Guidance from the Caravan Storage Site Owners Association (CASSOA) clarifies compliance, layout, security, and insurance expectations. Attendees leave with practical models for monetising surplus space, strengthening occupancy resilience, and unlocking new income streams from areas of their site that currently sit idle.

Risk Management
Amy King, Basil Fry & CompanyThis presentation, led by an experienced self storage insurance broker, explores how operators can identify, assess, and mitigate risks that impact their facilities, staff, and customers. Covering everything from property and liability exposures to emerging threats and regulatory considerations, the session will provide practical guidance on protecting your business and assets. Attendees will learn how to evaluate insurance needs, implement effective risk management strategies, and reduce both financial and operational vulnerabilities. The session will highlight common pitfalls and best practice, giving operators the insight to make informed decisions that safeguard growth and long-term profitability. Whether you are developing your first site or managing a portfolio, this session will equip you with actionable strategies to minimise risk and ensure business continuity.