Finding Your Core Business Tools: Self-Storage Products and Services

These days, the No. 1 priority for self-storage operators is to increase revenue and minimize expenses. But every business requires products and services to meet customer expectations, maintain its brand, optimize income and ensure seamless operation. Where would you be without security equipment, management software, legal forms, maintenance products and other essential tools? Those professionals who are new to the business have material needs too, shopping for consultants, real estate brokers, contractors, building components and more.

To find must-have items for an existing or budding self-storage enterprise―and get top value for every dollar―your best strategy is to discuss your goals with vendors face-to-face. The exhibit hall at the Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Washington, D.C., is the ideal venue. On Oct. 7 and 8, you can meet with 70-plus of the industry’s top suppliers representing a highly diverse range of offerings. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, demo products, collect information, and establish confidence and contacts for future purchases.

Because the show’s exhibitors understand the importance of saving money in today’s economy, many are unveiling new products and offering special show-only deals. Following is an example of offerings: 

Encore Commercial Products (booth #135) will unveil a new bollard cover and provide a 15 percent discount on all products purchased at the show. The company’s new MediaBollards convert bollards into instant billboards by using a specially designed front panel that can be customized with promotional messages and logos.

Syrasoft is offering 15 percent off all software products purchased at the company’s booth (#110). The company will unveil its new Self Storage Management System, Version 8, Spanish Edition as well as expanded language-correspondence features for the English edition. It will also release sophisticated new tracking features such as automatic check processing, the “Rent Slider” rate-management system, utility metering and detailed demographics.

Mako Steel (booth #210) will provide no-cost engineering and construction rebates for new customers who visit the company’s booth. The no-cost engineering will be provided to those who sign a materials contract. A 2 percent rebate will be given to those who pay their invoice within 10 days, a 1 percent rebate to those who pay within 20 days.

XPS Solutions (booth #106) will launch two new products at the expo: EchoWeb and Call Capture. The first is a Web portal that enables customers to learn about a self-storage facility, browse its unit inventory, and pay for rentals online with a credit card. The second is a new call-center tool rich with features.

Created for self-storage industry owners, managers, developers, investors and suppliers, the ISS Expo comprises four days of educational seminars, product and service exhibits, and networking opportunities. It will take place at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, Oct. 5-8, 2009. With a theme of “Today’s Challenges Are Tomorrow’s Profit,” the event focuses on strategies for generating revenue and perfecting business branding in a demanding economic environment. 

For details and to register, visit www.insideselfstorageworldexpo.com.

To view a list of exhibitors for the Washington, D.C., expo, click HERE.

Related Articles:

Get in Great Economic Shape at the ISS Expo!

Today's Challenges Become Tomorrow's Profit: Inside Self-Storage World Expo Preview