The self storage industry is booming across the UK and Europe, and there’s never been a better time to enter the market. Whether you’re an entrepreneur exploring a new venture or an investor seeking long-term returns, self storage offers a compelling opportunity.
In this blog, we break down everything you need to know to start a profitable self storage business —from location and legal considerations to fit-out essentials, smart access tech, and budgets.
1. Why Self Storage? Why Now?
Demand for self storage in the UK and Europe has surged post-pandemic. As hybrid working, urban downsizing, and e-commerce continue to reshape how we use physical space, self storage has emerged as a high-demand, low-maintenance solution.
• UK market growth: The UK is home to over 2,000 self storage facilities, yet demand still outpaces supply in many areas. According to the SSA UK Annual Industry Report 2025, average occupancy rates are healthy at 75%.
• Europe catching up: While the UK leads in maturity, countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands are seeing significant growth according to the European Annual Industry Report 2024, offering fertile ground for new developments.
• Post-COVID trends: Businesses need flexible inventory space. Remote workers need home-office clarity. And with rising housing costs, people need somewhere to store what no longer fits.
Key takeaway: Market timing is ideal for both urban infill conversions and new-build developments across the UK and continental Europe.
2. Location, Planning & Legal Considerations
Getting your planning right is key to success. Whether you’re converting an existing warehouse or starting from scratch, the right site—and permission—can make or break your project.
• Zoning and planning permission: In the UK, many self storage developments fall under Use Class B8 (storage or distribution), but you’ll need planning consent for change of use, signage, and parking provisions.
• Conversions vs. ground-up builds: Converting existing industrial or retail space is often faster and more cost-effective. But greenfield sites allow greater layout control and expansion potential.
• Local demand analysis: Use catchment area tools and demographic data to pinpoint underserved markets. High-density areas with low household storage space tend to perform best.
👉 Need help? Book a free consultation with our self storage experts.
3. Essential Fit-Out: What Every Modern Facility Needs
A well-designed facility maximises both lettable area and customer satisfaction. Today’s tenants expect secure, clean, and professionally presented storage—whether it’s short-term or long-term use.
Core fit-out components:
• Steel partitions & corridors: Durable and modular, our partitioning systems are tailored to your space and scalable for future growth.
• Roller doors & swing doors: Choose from a wide range of options.
• Security and fire compliance: Alarm systems, smoke detection, and fire-rated walls are a must to meet insurance and regulatory requirements.
We supply and install a full range of self storage fit-out solutions—from layout planning and CAD designs to turnkey delivery and on-site assembly.
4. The Rise of Smart Access: What Today’s Tenants Expect
In 2025, tech-enabled access isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Today’s tenants want contactless entry, mobile-first convenience, and full confidence that their belongings are secure.
We install Nokē Smart Entry, a cutting-edge access system that transforms your facility into a fully digital experience:
• App-based unit access (no physical keys needed)
• Remote unit rentals and digital move-ins
• Audit trails and real-time activity logs
• Integration with your property management software
Smart tech also reduces staffing needs and improves customer satisfaction—two key drivers of profitability.
🎥 See Nokē in action.
5. Cost Breakdown
While every project is unique, here’s a list of the costs you need to consider for your self storage build or conversion:
• Site acquisition
• Planning & legal fees
• Fit-out & partitions
• Smart access systems
• Property management software
• Marketing & branding
• Insurance fees
• Personnel
• Utilities
6. Expert Tip: Choosing the Right Suppliers Can Save You £££
The right suppliers do more than deliver products—they help you avoid costly delays, ensure compliance, and make smarter long-term decisions. High-quality and durable products and solutions will lead to a future-proof and visually appealing facility.
At Janus, as a self storage consultancy and manufacturer, we support operators across the UK and Europe with:
• Turnkey fit-out packages
• Tech integrations and tenant apps
• Project Management
• Aftercare
Whether you’re just starting your feasibility research or ready to break ground, we can help you save time and budget—without compromising on quality.
Ready to take the next step?
✅ Download our free Self Storage Startup Guide
✅ Book a no-obligation consultation with our expert team
