Self Storage in 2025: Smarter Access, Greener Facilities, Bigger Reach

Not long ago, self storage was a side note in real estate. In 2025, it’s front and center – growing fast, going digital and reshaping how people think about space.

New technologies, evolving customer expectations and flexible business models are driving change across the sector. The result? A smarter, leaner and more accessible storage experience.

Demand Isn’t Slowing Down

The self storage market in Europe continues to expand, with new facilities opening every month – and there’s no sign of this growth slowing down. As traditional real estate sectors like office and retail lose momentum, investor interest is shifting toward self storage.

At the same time, modern residential properties tend to offer less square footage, minimalism is on the rise, and e-commerce businesses – along with independent entrepreneurs – increasingly need flexible storage solutions. As a result, self storage is no longer seen as a luxury but as a practical necessity for everyday life.

Access Control: The Core of Self Storage Automation

While self storage has long aimed to simplify the rental process, the industry is now entering a new phase. Operators are under growing pressure to provide fully online pricing, booking and rental processes. Already, 47% of facilities in Europe offer such solutions (1), and dedicated self storage software is becoming the backbone of the business.

If there’s one thing transforming the industry right now, it’s automation – and access control is at the heart of it.

Modern customers want full digital autonomy: from booking and payments to unit access. That’s why operators are investing in:

• cloud-based management systems,
• mobile apps for contactless entry,
• smart access control tools like keypads, digital locks and license plate recognition,
• real-time monitoring without the need for on-site staff.

Access control systems are no longer optional. They’re the new standard – reducing operational costs while delivering 24/7 convenience and better security.

In 2025, access control will define the customer experience. Those who implement scalable, user-friendly systems will stay ahead of the curve.

Self Storage and Sustainable Development

According to the 2024 Fedessa report (2), European self storage facilities adopted more sustainable practices compared to the previous year. The three most common include:

• LED lighting,
• recyclable packing materials,
• passive infrared (PIR) motion sensors.

This trend is likely to accelerate in 2025. More investors are choosing energy-efficient materials, installing solar panels and implementing smart energy management systems. Thermal insulation helps reduce heating and cooling costs, while rainwater harvesting systems allow facilities to reuse water on-site. Sustainability now goes beyond environmental concerns – it also supports real savings and more profitable operations.

Self storage developers are putting greater emphasis on sustainability, especially in new builds and refurbishment projects. Certifications like BREEAM – Europe’s most widely used green building rating system – offer a way to demonstrate this commitment by evaluating energy performance, water efficiency, environmental impact and user comfort. system, which evaluates energy efficiency, water usage, environmental impact and user comfort.

Flexibility Is Winning

The era of rigid, long-term rental contracts is fading. Today’s users expect flexibility – and the self storage industry is adapting fast.

That means:

• month-to-month rentals,
• the ability to upsize or downsize anytime,
• transparent, no-surprise pricing.

This model fits mobile workers, fast-scaling businesses, digital nomads and anyone facing a life transition. In 2025, flexible access to space is just as important as flexible working hours or remote tools.

Self Storage in Smaller Towns – The Next Big Opportunity?

While most investments still focus on large urban areas – where demand remains high – self storage is gradually making its way into smaller towns. Facilities are being developed near major roads, suburban areas and logistics hubs. This shift signals that the industry is not just expanding, but also recognising new opportunities outside traditional hotspots.

Optimising Operating Costs

Self storage is a business model that can function with minimal staffing. Smart monitoring systems, automated payments and digital contracts mean operators can significantly reduce administrative costs. This enables competitive pricing while still offering premium services such as climate-controlled units and 24/7 access.

Where the Industry Is Headed – and Who Will Lead

Self storage in 2025 is about more than square footage. It’s about access – to space, to technology, to flexibility. Operators who get that balance right won’t just grow. They’ll redefine what modern storage means.

Sources:

(1) https://www.fedessa.org/resource/fedessa-european-industry-report-2024.html
(2) https://www.fedessa.org/publications/european-annual-industry-report-2024.html