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The last 11 months have flown by! I took over from PaulGlenister as Chairman of the SSA UK in November, 2010and it seems hard to believe that my tenure will be coming toan end at the AGM.
The last year has been characterised by more hard work fromyour Board and Head Office. While working on specific tasksthat needed attention, we have striven to focus on the keygoals of the Association, viz: providing regular industry
communications; a forum for members to gather and learn; the provision ofregular information about our industry; representing our industry in the widereconomic context; and social networking opportunities.
To assist us in delivering these goals, we co-opted three more Directors onto theBoard. We welcome Jon Wyles (Smart Storage), Frederic de Ryckman de Betz(Attic Self Storage) and back onto the Board after a five year “holiday”, RobinGreenwood (Storage King). I would also like to take this opportunity to thankDoug Perrins and Paul Glenister (Easistore) for all their hard work, as they leavethe Board.
The key tasks we are currently focused on are:
Industry Survey – we produced our first survey with Drivers Jonas Deloitte thisyear and received positive feedback from everyone. We are delighted that DriversJonas Deloitte is committed to continuing this relationship and we have beenworking with them to make improvements for the next report in 2012. I wouldencourage all members to participate. Not only does it mean that you get a freecopy of the survey, it also means the Association can talk with more authority ifthe survey represents the majority of its members, which it currently does.
Security – you will all have seen the Security Bulletins that the Association hasbegun to share with its members. These, combined with the work we are doingwith the security agencies, will lead to more regular communications with youabout these matters. Our intention is to provide you with a Security AdviceManual early in 2012.
Customer Licence & Data Protection – we are updating the Terms & Conditionsof the standard Customer Licence. At the same time, we will be giving adviceabout the Data Protection Act and how it affects our routine business and thesharing of security information between members.
Member Communications – you will all have seen the changes over the lastyear with the introduction of a monthly electronic newsletter alongside Focus. Wewill continue to improve overall communications and will seek feedback from youon what you would like to see included. We will also continue our approachesto all self storage operators in the UK, encouraging as many of them as possibleto become Association members.
I am pleased to say the Board has a robust “can do” attitude and attacks eachtask with relish. I would particularly like to thank my fellow Board Directors forthe time they take to address these issues on behalf of the whole industry and forthe excellent support we get from Rodney, Sue, Jane and Mary at the Associationhead office.
I look forward to handing over the Chairmanship to Hugh Knowles (Fortbox) atthe AGM and continuing to deliver benefits to all members of the Association in2012. I also look forward to meeting as many of you as can make it to the AGMand Members’ Meeting at Chesford Grange Hotel, Kenilworth on the 17th ofNovember.
Adrian LeeChairman
Doesn’t Time Fly!contents
SSA UK News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Company News . . . . . . . . . 10 to 15
• Store-IT’s new website
• Safestore strengthens its team
• The Storage Team, St. Helens
• Safebox announces expansion plans
• Steel Storage Asia appoints new MD
• Black Hole Storage expands
• BWI Storage
Community News . . . . . . . 16 to 25
• Big Yellow’s staff get on their bikes
• It’s an Apex Knockout!
• Just Self Storage’s charity cheque
• Scott Self Storage’s charity bike ride
• Pound Gates’ Dragon Boat Day
Security Features . . . . . . . . 27 to 30
• Security and Crime Prevention
• Crime report from HMRC
Company Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
• Store & Secure is growing
Health & Safety Feature . . . . . . . 33
• Health and Safety matters
Employment Feature . . . . . . . . . .36
• The Pensions Act 2008
Business News . . . . . . . . . . 38 & 39
Members’ Benefits . . . . . . . 40 & 41
To subscribe to the Focus and Self Storage Europe magazine, please contact:
Self Storage Association, Priestley House, The Gullet,Nantwich, Cheshire. CW5 5SZ
Tel: + 44 (0)1270 623 150Fax: + 44 (0)1270 623 471
e-mail: [email protected]
EditorialNews items and articles on all aspects of the self storageindustry are welcomed, and should be sent, together withphotographs if appropriate, to the editor, Stan McKerron:
e-mail: [email protected]
The SSA UK and FEDESSA, or any of itsagents/representatives/staff, cannot accept any legal
liability for the accuracy of the news items and articlescontained in the magazine, which have been obtained
and are reproduced in good faith.
AdvertisingPlease contact Stan McKerron:
48 Talbot Way, Stapeley, Nantwich, CW5 7RQ.Tel: + 44 (0)1270 624 622e-mail: [email protected]
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Self Storage Focus
17 November, 2011
AGM, Members’ Meeting and Buffet
Chesford Grange Hotel, Kenilworth
Nr. Warwick, Warwickshire, J15 M40
21-22 November, 2011
Movers and Storers, Telford International Centre
26 January, 2012 (TBC)
Scottish Regional Meeting
Possibly Perth
23 February, 2012 (TBC)
RBS Southern Regional Meeting, London
12-13 September, 2012
European Self Storage Conference
Corinthia Hotel, Budapest
NotesSSA UK Head Office News
In September, Mary Goode joined the SSA UK Head Officeteam, as the Projects and Communications Manager. Aftergraduating from the University of Wales, Cardiff with a degreein Applied Psychology, Mary worked for many years in thedefence and training industries where she was responsible fora wide variety of projects, ensuring that the design of systemswas driven by end-user requirements. More recently, with four young children, she has worked on apart-time, consultancy basis. This has included working forBUPA, where she was responsible for developing animplementation strategy to enable the introduction of flexibleworking options into the organisation without risk to thebusiness, and the MoD, where she was involved in researchexamining the potential contribution that the use of networkedsimulators for collective training could make to future UKmilitary capability.
Sue BrashPlease note that Sue Brash will be on maternity leave from the 19th of December, 2011 for six months. All enquiries in her
absence should be e-mailed to: [email protected]
SSA UK NEWS
Focus Magazine Deadlines
The deadline for submitting Advertising Booking Forms, newsitems and articles for the next edition of the Focus magazine isFriday the 23rd of December, 2011. The deadline for submittingAdvertisement Artwork is Friday the 6th of January, 2012.
Focus V4 2011_Layout 1 07/11/2011 12:23 Page 8
Self Storage Focus
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COMPANY NEWS
Store-IT’s new website
Store-IT is pleased to announce the launch of its new website:www.store-it.eu
The new website provides essential information about thecompany’s products and services. It displays a simplified, user-friendly interface, with a detailed menu and features softwarepackages specifically designed for self storage operators. Youcan learn more about Store-IT and find detailed informationabout its products and team on the relevant tabs. Links to socialnetworking sites are also included. With almost 20 years’ experience, Store-IT is the leadingEuropean manufacturer of Self Storage Software Solutions. Itcurrently serves 18 countries in eight different languages andhas three different Software Packages to suit small, medium andlarge self storage facilities. Store-IT has a proven track recordof excellence. One of the hallmarks of its success is its teams’willingness to go the extra mile for its clients; another is its abilityto find solutions to the most complex and challenging ofproblems. For more information visit: www.store-it.eu or e-mail:[email protected]
Safestore strengthens its Sales andMarketing team
Safestore, the UK’s largest self storage company, hasstrengthened its sales and marketing team with the appointmentof David Cox as Head of Sales and Marketing and CarolineAkata-Pore as Business to Business (B2B) Marketing Manager.Both are newly created roles.
David Cox joins from AXA Insurance, where he was Head ofMarketing from 2006 to 2011; he also performed the same roleat National Express from 2002 to 2005. Caroline Akata-Porewas most recently at Taylor Woodrow and has previously workedin marketing positions at Westminster Council and HP.
David commented: “With a new CEO on board, it is an excitingtime to be joining Safestore. The business is well positioned forboth personal and business customers and we’ve identifiedconsiderable opportunities with both customer types to reinforcethe Safestore brand. I look forward to working with the rest ofthe sales and marketing team to build on the success of recentyears.”
Caroline added: “Businesses are becoming increasingly focusedon improving the efficiency of the way they use space and thiscreates new drivers for self storage. This is, therefore, a keygrowth area for Safestore and I will be working closely with mycolleagues throughout the business to strengthen the relevanceof the brand to business customers. In particular there is anexciting pipeline of new business in national sales forces andpartnerships.”
David Cox (Head of Sales and Marketing)
Caroline Akata-Pore (B2B Marketing Manager)
Do you have any Company News?
If you have any news items about your company, such as awards won, new appointments, retirements, results, new builds or openings, please e-mail them
to Stan McKerron at: [email protected]
Focus V4 2011_Layout 1 07/11/2011 12:23 Page 10
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Volume 4, 2011
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The Storage Team, St. Helens
The Storage Team recently commissioned Active Supply &Design (AS&D) to undertake the final phase of the fit-out at itsfacility in St. Helens, Merseyside. The project included theconstruction of a two-tier mezzanine floor extension and units atall levels, thereby creating a further 5,000 sq. ft. of storagespace.AS&D has been heavily involved from the very start of TheStorage Team’s plans to open a self storage facility. Active hasassisted with many aspects of the development, from feasibilitystudies through to the complete phased fit-out of the facility,offering valuable guidance and assistance along the way.One customer to benefit from the recent increase in capacity isfitness fanatic, Steve Cooper, from PB Fit, who is currently rentinga 500 sq. ft. unit which he has converted into a gym studio forhis personal fitness business.
Steve has added cushioned flooring to his unit, an array ofweights and a sound system to help motivate his clients intoburning more calories and getting fit.The space has resulted in PB Fit being able to run classes at afraction of the cost it usually would be by the traditional methodof hiring room space.The Storage Team is now just over 70% occupied and, withoccupancy and yield increasing, business continues to go fromstrength to strength, despite these challenging times.
Safebox announces expansion plans
The Safebox Group of companies, which operates both SelfStorage and Archive & Data Storage centres in the East ofEngland, has just announced the addition of a 20,000 sq. ft.site close to Cambridge, in order to facilitate the expansion oftheir Archive & Data Storage business.Mark Holme, MD commented: “I am delighted that in thesedifficult trading times, we continue to attract new clients and to
grow our business; the additional 20,000 sq. ft. will assist in thenext stage of our on-going growth and business development.”
The Safebox Group’s expansion programme will see thedevelopment of three new self storage sites in East Anglia andthe South East, as well as a new Archive & Data Storage Centrebetween Docklands and Cambridge within the next two years.Any potential properties or sites, which might facilitate thedelivery of this plan, can be communicated to the Group’sProperty, Facilities & Operations Manager, James Merrells, at:[email protected] recently announced the successful disposal of itsCambridge Self Storage facility to Storage King, along with adesign and build agreement, which will add an additional28,000 sq. ft. to the site within the next year.
Steel Storage Asia appoints new MD
Jonathan Perrins, Steel Storage Group’s CEO, recentlyannounced the appointment of Sam Peterson as the MD of SteelStorage Asia, commencing the 12th of September, 2011. Samreplaces Jes Johansen, who has now established his own selfstorage operation, Store Friendly Singapore.Sam comes to Steel Storage with a wealth of Asia-basedexperience in business development, management and privateequity, having previously been the head of The Linde Group’sbusiness for Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore, MD ofMalaysia Oxygen Berhad and Partner at CEO Solutions. Heobtained his business degree at the Kellogg Graduate School ofManagement and also has a degree in electrical/computerengineering.
We look forward to Sam’s fresh approach to the self storageindustry in Asia and welcome him to the Steel Storage Group.
COMPANY NEWSocus
(L to R) Steve Cooper (customer), Kevin Thompson (MD, The Storage Team) and Richard Allen (AS&D)
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Volume 4, 2011
Black Hole Storage expands
Based in Salisbury, Black Hole Storage specialises in domesticand commercial self storage for short or long-term requirements.Due to increasing demand, the company opened a secondfacility, more than doubling the amount of units they offer from108 to 225.
During the refurbishment, Black Hole Storage used loadingsystems specialist, Transdek, to install a specialist goods lift. Thelift was erected and was in full working order within 36 hours.This was the second lift that Transdek supplied to Black HoleStorage and it was the 250th Mezzanine Floor Lift that it hassupplied. “From the initial enquiry through to the installation of both lifts,Transdek kept to its deadlines and provided all the informationwe needed,” said Leon Antone, owner of Black Hole Storage.“The lifts have provided us with reliable service from the startand we are very happy with Transdek’s service.”According to the Yorkshire-based manufacturer-supplier, over50% of its mezzanine floor lift business is based on repeatorders. “Having worked hard to develop a quality product witha high level of safety features, we are very proud that ourcustomers are clearly happy with the end result,” said DeanButler, Transdek’s Engineering Manager.“With over 70 trained service agents offering nationwide 24/7,365-day emergency technical assistance, we feel confident inoffering a very high level of customer support throughout theUK.”
BWI Storage
Newcomer to the self storage industry, BWI Storage, has recentlyopened new premises in South Woodford, London near to theA406/M11 junction. Due to size constraints, careful design was required to ensurethat the available space was optimised in order to make it aviable project. To compensate for its lack of size, the facility islocated in a good position with potential to increase its footprintat a later date as and when demand dictates.
BWI is owned and operated by Elaine Gibbons and Bijal Dodhiaand employs one full time and two part time members of staff.Bijal already had experience of the self storage industry, havingworked for a major national operator in his earlier days. Elainehas an excellent background in business consultancy and hasprovided consultation services for other self storage operators,as well as suppliers to the industry. This new venture provides anexcellent opportunity for the couple to pool their expertise,business acumen and industry knowledge.The facility was subjected to a complete fit-out by Active Supply& Design (AS&D), the security system was provided by MWFSecurity and Space Manager by Radical Systems was theselected software package. The new facility comprises 120 selfstorage units ranging in size from 10 sq. ft. to 250 sq. ft., withhigh gloss corridor walling, kicker plates, corner guards andgreen doors to the storage units.The initial response and take up has been very encouraging withsmall businesses that have previously operated from homechoosing to take units, including a coffee importer, a vintagefashion business and a toy inventor, amongst others. Customerfeedback suggests that the level of service offered by this friendly,family-run business and its location have been major factors inits early success.
At 12,000 sq. ft. there was a benefit in that securing finance fora smaller site was a lot easier in the current economic climate.And, although opening in challenging times, Bijal and Elaineare confident of the on-going success of their new businessventure. The couple would like to extend their thanks to AS&Dfor its assistance in getting the facility operational within tighttime constraints and for providing the best help and guidancethroughout the process.
Word Puzzle 1 - AnswerClue: “h i j k l m n o” or “h” to “o” (H2O)
Answer: a five letter word (across)
Leon Antone & Mike Curtis (Black Hole Storage Directors) with Transdek's 250th Mezzanine Floor Lift
NEWS
W A T E R
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COMMUNITY NEWS Self Storage Focus
Big Yellow’s staff get on their bikes
Four members of staff from self storage provider Big Yellow goton their bikes for charity as they cycled nearly 200 miles over twodays around the 34 Big Yellow stores within the M25.
The team, called Big Yellow Fellows, decided to take on thechallenge to raise money for the charity, Get Kids Going!, afterlunchtime discussions turned serious. Mike FitzGerald, the team
leader, explained: “We were talking about doing something forcharity and, with the Olympics approaching, cycling seemed likethe perfect thing to do. We are all comfortable on bikes, but Ihave to admit the idea of cycling 191 miles over two days wasdaunting.”
Starting at 7 am on the 19th of August from Big Yellow’s Elthamfacility, Mike from Big Yellow Romford, Luke McLaughlin fromBig Yellow Birmingham, Richard Shubrook and Paul Holmesfrom Big Yellow’s Head Office and Stephanie Cartwright (abadminton coach looking to get into disability sports coaching)began the 191-mile journey to Romford. The team was alsosupported by nutritionists, Hench Gear Nutrition, with suppliesand advice.
Get Kids Going! is a national charity that works with disabledchildren, and young people up to the age of 26, providing themwith an opportunity to participate in sports.
…continued on Page 17
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Volume 4, 2011
Do you have any Community News?
If you have any news items about your company,
such as charity events, fund raising, sponsorship
or supporting the community, please e-mail them
to Stan McKerron at: [email protected]
(L to R) Mike FitzGerald, Richard Shubrook,Paul Holmes & Luke McLaughlin
COMMUNITY NEWS
They supply specially built sports wheelchairs, so that childrenand young people can take part in athletics, marathons, tennis,skiing, rugby, sailing, boccia, basketball, sledge hockey, tabletennis, fencing, shooting, archery, powerlifting and many othersports.Jane Emmerson, CEO of Get Kids Going! said: “It was fantasticto see what the Big Yellow Fellows did; they certainly putthemselves to the test! We do not receive funding from theGovernment or the Lottery and rely solely on donations from thepublic. Therefore, the money that Mike and the team raised willdirectly boost GB medal hopes at next year’s Paralympics, byhelping to buy much needed equipment and providing sportsgrants.”
In addition to endurance cycling, Big Yellow Fellows will also becompeting in four other Olympic events over the next fewmonths as part of the Gold Challenge. This is a charitychallenge in which people take on Olympic and Paralympicsports to raise money to inspire people of all ages and physicalabilities to play sport.Mike concluded: “There was a sense of excitement and nervesin the team. It was a big challenge but we couldn’t wait to getgoing. I was particularly nervous as I pledged that if we raisedover £1,000 I would have my legs waxed…a scary thought foreveryone involved.”Help was also provided by Streetvan, who supplied one of theirvans prior to the event to transport the bikes to Eltham.To take a look at the team’s progress, please visit the@Bigyellowfellow twitter or to donate money, please visit:http://tinyurl.com/3l89qb5
It’s an Apex Knockout!
Apex Self Storage’s staff in Manchester entered an “It’s aKnockout” tournament for local charity, The Frost Foundation.The event was held on a very wet and cold 29th of August, BankHoliday Monday. However, the rain and cold couldn’t dampenthe spirits of the ten teams that took part in the competition. After a light warm-up session, the games got under way withplenty of foam, freezing cold water and silly costumes. The
contestants warmed up very quickly with lots of slipping, slidingand falling down in hysterical circumstances.After a few hours of what seemed like gruelling torture, witheveryone wet through and looking very dirty and dishevelled, itwas onto the final game, the big relay!Participants started off through a trough of cold water, then overa series of hill climbs laced with oodles of washing up liquid,carrying sacks of goodies to their stations. Team members thenhad to run all the way back, ending in a splashdown in a poolof ice-cold, foamy water to release the next team member. Thecontestants proved too tough for the course, completing it ingood style.
All in all it was a great day, despite the typically British weather.Everyone enjoyed themselves and hopefully raised a few poundsfor the charity. Team Apex ended the day in sixth place out often, but it’s the taking part that counts and every member of theteam has asked to do it again next year, hopefully with somesunshine! The Frost Foundation supports local North West Children’sHospitals and Hospices, as well as helping individual childrenwho need special care or equipment.
(L to R) Stephanie Cartwright, Paul Holmes, Mike FitzGerald & Luke McLaughlin
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COMMUNITY NEWS Self Storage Focus
Customers’ generosity to ex-services charity
Customers of Just Self Storage, which is situated in Suffolk Way,Abingdon have donated over £1,000 to Combat Stress, a forcescharity.
Combat Stress is the UK’s leading military charity that specialisesin the care of veterans’ mental health. They look after men andwomen who are suffering from a psychological condition relatedto their service career. This might be depression, anxiety, aphobia or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Their servicesare free of charge to ex-service personnel.
Since 2005, the number of ex-service men and women seekinghelp has risen by 72%. The charity has a current caseload ofmore than 4,600 individuals, including 159 Afghanistan and517 Iraq veterans.
Pictured, as a cheque for £1,100 was handed over to CombatStress at their Leatherhead HQ, are: Chris Nicholls (GroupChairman), Kevin Sadler (Group MD) and Niall Strathdee fromJust Self Storage.
Niall Strathdee, Managing Director of Just Self Storage,commented: “It is a privilege to pass on the amount raised byour customers to such a worthwhile cause.”
Just Self Storage is part of the same group that owns the YourSpace Self Storage brand.
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Volume 4, 2011
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Solway 50k – wet, windy, but magnificent
Congratulations to all 67 participants who took part in either the Solway 50k or25k event on the 7th of August, 2011. This event was organised by Scott SelfStorage, together with Solway Communications. Proceeds will be donated to theEden Valley Hospice.
What horrendous conditions; it was not the weather that most of us would choosefor a bike ride! However, we completed the course and can be proud of ourachievement. International classic cyclist, Laurie Scott, said: “The weather turneda leisurely ride into a bit of an epic!”
We wish Laurie good luck in the forthcoming L’Eroica. In spite of the conditions,you can find out how much was raised by visiting our website at:http://tinyurl.com/3o4lwqv
Unfortunately, we don’t know the name of the first rider home. However, whoeverit was completed the ride in a very fast time of about 1 hour 45 minutes, and wasfollowed closely by Ann Wilson. Our most senior rider, Jimmy Barton, also finishedamong the first groups. The last rider, Billy Hewitt, went AWOL, having missed aturn and made a detour to Carlisle city centre. Much to the relief of the organisers,he was eventually found and arrived back at 3.35 pm.
A number of riders, including Billy, travelled from Lancashire and had a good dayout, taking in several pubs en route (by several, we mean all of them). In spite ofthe rain, they appreciated the picturesque views, and promised to attend the eventagain next year.
Well done to the damp “Doddies” who know how to organise a peloton. Also, welldone to Darren, Sarah, and little Logan who rode on the back of his dad’s bike.
A world record was set for the number of revolutions on a roundabout, on thenew Northern by-pass. This was achieved by our own marshal and route planner,Ian Dixon, with seven rotations, while waiting for the second wave to go past.
The organisers and the Hospice are grateful to all those who turned out, and a bigthank you goes to all those who took part, or donated to a very worthwhile cause.Thanks also goes to the Border Reiver pub who looked after us very well; specialthanks goes to Jacqui, Anna, Glynis, Pip, and to Alistair for marshalling and toColin Powell of the Hospice for his help and advice. Thanks also to the St. JohnAmbulance team, who fortunately were not required to demonstrate their expertise,and finally to Border City Wheelers for the loan of their signs.
Scott Self Storage is considering organising the event again next year, and willkeep everyone informed about the arrangements in good time; any comments orsuggestions for this event are welcomed.
Focus V4 2011_Layout 1 07/11/2011 12:23 Page 22
Dragon Boat Day for St. Elizabeth Hospice
On Sunday the 25th of September, Pound Gates Insurance Brokers, and their clientCrown Worldwide, stepped up to the challenge of Dragon Boat racing, which isan ancient Chinese tradition and the fastest growing water activity in Britain today;as well as the most fun!
Up to ten people paddle a 30 foot boat with a drummer at the front beating timeand a helmsman at the rear steering a straight course. Fortunately no previousexperience is required.
Pound Gates Insurance Brokers and Crown Worldwide strongly believe in the valueof charity and community projects. For some time now, both have been trying tofind a way to incorporate this ethic into a joint event. Despite many “creative”suggestions, such as street dancing, ballet and parachute jumps, it was decidedto raise money for St. Elizabeth Hospice, an amazing cause, and to have fun atthe same time.
It was a beautiful, warm and dry day at Alton Waters. Crown having mostlytravelled from West London and beyond, with just a few staying over for a “pre-event” nutrient rich night out on Saturday, were welcomed by fantastic Suffolkweather. Mixing the Crown and Pound Gates people worked well with KarenCarwood and Dave Collins taking on the respective captaincies.
Each of the three heats had the teams against one another, head to head.Bystanders were shocked by the level of competitive spirit, particularly between thedrummers, Jodie Claxton and Suzanne Gordon-Brown. Crown won every heat,with the second race being the most highly contested.
Unfortunately, neither of the teams made it through to the semi’s, but Crown’simprovement in the final heat put them in contention as “the one to watch” nextyear. Sadly the Pound Gates boat came in 19th, out of 19. Dave Collins fromPound Gates said: “I’m gutted; I knew we shouldn’t have swapped sides for thefinal heat.” Everyone agreed that it was a dangerous tactical move and one thatreally didn’t pay off. However, everyone had a fantastic day and most feel anannual event has now been established.
For more than 20 years, St. Elizabeth Hospice has provided an invaluable servicefor people with progressive illnesses. Whether at home, in the community or at theHospice, St. Elizabeth’s experience, dedication and expertise lets people know theyare in safe hands. They offer advice and practical support for the person and theirfamily around issues such as palliative care, pain and the anxiety caused when aloved one is ill.
25
Volume 4, 2011Volume 4, 2011COMMUNITY NEWS
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Volume 4, 2011 SECURITY FEATURE
An article in FEDESSA News, Volume 3, Edition 1 highlightedsecurity and crime prevention as an essential part of protectingthe reputation and viability of the Self Storage Industry. Inaddition, Security Bulletins issued by the SSA UK have shownexamples of storage facilities being a target for criminals. The“Know Your Customer” campaign, promoted by the police andanti-terrorist agencies, has outlined management proceduresand guidelines to deter criminals from using self storage.
The European self storage industry is still largely self-regulatingand it is in its own interests, through operators, to minimisesecurity risks. This, in turn, protects the investments thatoperators have made in their businesses.
We now have more than 15 years experience of operating asophisticated level of self storage. The challenges for existingoperators in protecting their investments are well understoodand there is a wealth of expertise in the industry to advise newinvestors. Criminal mischief, employee theft and customer-caused damage are concerns in the general management of afacility, but we are now living in a security conscious world wherenew challenges are presented on a potentially sinister anddangerous scale.
Good management and vigilance by staff will “deter”, “expose”and “record” any suspicious or criminal activity, assisted by thehi-tech security systems that are available. These systems aretailored for the operation and protection of self storage facilities.Having advanced systems in place is also a major selling pointfor self storage users.
Systems for deterrence
To deter criminal activity is to convey the perception of securityand prevent a crime taking place. Some storage operators mayclaim their facilities are secure, but their measures often appearscant to criminals and vandals looking to commit their nextcrime. Making security visible and obvious immediately saysthat the facility is not an easy target. Large LCD monitors inreception displaying CCTV images and visible external CCTVcameras will have an immediate impact. Access control keypadsprovide a barrier for people entering a facility and regulate whocan be in a particular area and at what time.
Individual door alarms on storage units are heard if a door isopened without first entering a PIN at the keypad and intruderalarm sensors at fire doors are armed 24/7. For the highestlevel of security, external sensors and speakers are visible at entryand exit points around the building. Providing evidence of acrime from the security systems that leads to a conviction is along term deterrent.
The perception of security should be kept fresh by updating thevisual impact. This can be by displaying contemporaryequipment and signage with a clean, tidy and professionalimage. Help points and music enhance this image. However,some criminals are not deterred and perception then moves toprotection.
Systems for exposure
When criminal activity takes place, security systems shouldprovide immediate warning by transmitting alarm signals. Thisis where more covert and discreet elements of an integratedsecurity system kick-in, such as CCTV cameras, interfacesbetween alarm equipment, tracking software and off-sitemonitoring. A storage unit alarm that sounds at a facility duringthe day is likely to be a false alarm, caused by not entering a PINat the keypad. Good management at the facility will result in thestorage client receiving a friendly reprimand. At the same time,this innocent incident provides some reassurance concerning thesecurity systems.
However, after a facility closes, this is a different matter. Whenthe manager leaves and sets the intruder alarm, any alarmsignal from an intruder alarm, fire alarm, access control system,storage unit alarms and external sensors are transmitted to themonitoring station. Protocols agreed with the monitoring stationmay mean that a key-holder or security company is called todeal with the incident.
The highest level of security systems include CCTV monitoring,which on receipt of an alarm signal provides the opportunity foran incident to be viewed and interpreted by a central station,before any further action is taken.
…continued on Page 28
Security and Crime PreventionBy: Barry Rimmer (MD of EOS Integrated Systems and Co-director of SupaStorage)
Barry Rimmer
Security Monitors
Focus V4 2011_Layout 1 07/11/2011 12:23 Page 26
Self Storage Focus SECURITY FEATURE
The central station may also issue warnings to suspectedintruders via a speaker system. This happened at a self storagefacility recently, when three youths were scared off at 2.45 am byalarms and warnings from a central station.
Even without a connection to a central station for CCTVmonitoring, technology is available for receiving alerts, CCTVimages and access control warnings from a facility on a homePC, laptop or smartphone (iPhone or Android with appropriateapps).
With the continuous vigilance of staff and the correct securitysystems in place, there is a good chance of recognisingsuspicious behaviour before a crime is committed. Whensecurity systems are breached by determined criminals,protection moves to traceability and evidence.
Systems for recording
Following a criminal incident, act of vandalism or suspiciousactivity that requires explanation, we depend on the capabilities,quality and performance of the security systems for tracing eventsand providing evidence. This is where the original planningdecisions concerning the level of investment required in securitysystems can be seen to pay off. Incidents seem to fall into a fewmain groups:
Client disputes – Something is amiss, items have gone missingor are damaged, etc. which can lead to disagreements betweenclients and the facility staff.
Opportunistic theft – Stealing, when lack of vigilance presentsan opportunity and property is vulnerable to a person withcriminal tendencies. A storage unit door may be left open, orcar keys left in a vehicle in the loading area. Alarm signals areunlikely with this scenario.
Planned incursion – A facility without proper security deterrentsis a target for acts of vandalism, or rich pickings from the goodsstored or reception equipment.
“Inside-job” – A self storage facility contains personal goodsthat may be of little value; it is very difficult to know what isbehind a storage unit door. However, businesses are also runfrom facilities and this can mean the storage of high-valuegoods. Even when high-security systems are in place, insideknowledge can mean that a thief can target individual storage
units and partially circumvent the security.
Rent and pillage – A spate of recently reported suspicious eventsinvolved attempts to rent a small storage unit to obtainauthorised access to the facility, with the intention of criminalactivity.
For all these scenarios one word summarises effective and high-performance security systems, and that is “traceability”. Thismeans that activities at a facility can be tracked via an integratedsecurity system where different elements work together. Activityreports from the access control system, high-quality images fromCCTV recordings and incident reports from the monitoringstation, can identify who was at the facility and at what time. Atone end of the scale, this may settle a small dispute or muchmore seriously be supporting evidence for a police report.
There are more sensational examples to show the effectivetraceability of an event, but the following is a relatively innocentincident. An alarm signal, originating from an access controlsystem, was received at a monitoring station, regularly at 6.00am. The activity report from the access control system identifiedthe storage unit number. The list of activities for that unit showedentry at the keypad at 11.00 pm. Interrogation of the CCTVrecordings and the pin-hole camera in the keypad, clearlyidentified an individual entering the facility. The evidenceshowed that a “friend” of a client was using the client’s personalPIN to access the facility and disarm the unit alarm. The friendwas spending the night in the unit and while he was sleeping theauto-log-off reset the unit alarm, so that when the door wasopened in the morning, the alarm was activated. The client wasinformed and the unauthorised activity was effectively managed.
A footnote
As the industry and its security systems get more complex, it isessential that equipment is installed and maintained properly.Otherwise, the legacy for operators and their clients will befrustration and disappointment. This may also allow a breachin the security itself, which will expose an operator tounnecessary liabilities.
For more information, visit: www.eossecurity.com and...www.supastorage.com.
Storage Unit Alarms
Cameras and Speakers
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HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is seizing increasing amountsof smuggled goods, such as cigarettes, tobacco and alcohol, atself storage facilities. Self storage facilities offer a flexible andconvenient way to store goods and, therefore, they arevulnerable to abuse by criminals. In response to an emergingtrend of smuggled goods being stored in self storage units,HMRC officers regularly inspect self storage facilities for illicitgoods.
The Government takes smuggling very seriously. It has strategiesin place to target and significantly disrupt fraudulent criminals.Tobacco and alcohol fraud takes money away from publicservices, it damages honest businesses and communities andcosts jobs.
HMRC is investing in additional enforcement officers to increasethe likelihood of criminals getting caught. It will also applyharder hitting sanctions and penalties including: seizure ofgoods; seizure of vehicles; seizure of cash under the Proceeds ofCrime Act 2002; criminal prosecution with custodial sentencesof up to seven years; and confiscation of assets as part of theproceeds of crime.
HMRC is committed to working with the SSA UK to raiseawareness of illicit activity and is asking facility managers toreport anything suspicious; they are the experts who are in thebest position to detect unusual activity.
HMRC is ready and waiting to take calls about all types ofsmuggling, particularly in respect of drugs, illegal alcohol ortobacco, or other tax fraud for which the department isresponsible. The following are some examples of illicit tobaccoseizures from self storage facilities:
HMRC Inland Detection officers visited commercial self storagepremises in Birmingham in February, 2011 and identified twoseparate units rented by a husband and wife. Officers attemptedto contact the lessees of the units to no avail. Accessing the twounits, officers found a combined quantity of 610 kg of loosetobacco, 180,000 cigarettes, 25 boxes of counterfeit hand-rolling tobacco pouches and counterfeit tax stamps.
Later that day, officers in support of a Criminal Investigationteam at another self storage facility nearby arrested a Chinesenational. The man was in possession of keys to a car, withinwhich was found two boxes containing loose tobacco concealedin foil bags, marked as tea, and two boxes of cigarettes. Theman also had a storage unit key, which was to the same unitthat had been raided earlier in the day. Accessing the unit at thissecond self storage facility, officers found it piled floor to ceilingwith boxes containing Chinese marked tea bags, commercialsized cotton reels and transformer units containing cigarettes,and plastic bags containing loose tobacco. Also, there werecommercial quantities of hand rolling tobacco pouches, taxstamps and holograms. In total, officers seized 990 kg of loosetobacco, 180,970 cigarettes and 4 kg of hand rolling tobacco.
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Volume 4, 2011
Is there a smugglers’ den in a storage unit near you?
It’s been a busy year for UK based Store & Secure (located inBournemouth, Dorset). After its introduction to the Self StorageIndustry in December, 2010, establishing itself within thecommunity, building recognition and acceptance within acompetitive local market, the company has learnt to find its feetvery quickly.
The facility was the vision of Brian Maidman, MD of Maidman’sRemovals & Storage, a business with over 30 years’ experiencewhich in May, 2011 was awarded the British Association ofRemovers (BAR), Domestic Remover of the Year. Brian said: “Irecognised the need for a storage facility in the Bournemoutharea. We spent some time researching available space in thecounty and while central areas are finite, we found a suitablespace behind the town’s main shopping area (CastlepointShopping Park). Our aim was to offer our customers a storageand removals service in a central location that was easy to find.”
Open seven days a week, the facility offers self storage, archiverooms, containers, office space as well as a secure shreddingfacility, accredited during 2011 with the BISA standard, BS EN15714 (European Standard for the Secure Destruction ofConfidential Material).
The facility’s first phase was completed by the end of 2010, withthe fit out by Active Supply & Design. This also included therelocation of the removals team over a three-week period.Accommodated on two floors, the second development stage isahead of schedule. Security is paramount, with 24-hour CCTVcameras and out-of-hours access for customers can be arrangedwith the team.
However, opening a new facility does have its challenges interms of building a customer base and creating awareness of anew storage provider in the local area. “Because we are not ona main road, our biggest challenge was to build recognition andawareness,” said Brian. “We are behind a busy shopping park,and not necessarily visible to local traffic. One of our ideas wasto fly a blimp behind the shopping park that could be seen byall visiting traffic. We have to be proactive; we can’t just sit hereand expect traffic to come to us, so we have investigated anumber of cost effective methods for targeting specificaudiences.”
Brian explained: “As we looked to build our reputation locally,we focused on targeting specific groups, rather than having ahuge generic ad spend that might be wasted.” Alliances havebeen formed locally and by building partnerships this has helpedbuild recognition.
The company also provides serviced office space and within twomonths of opening, all the available units were taken. “With amix of business contacts we already had and by using costeffective methods, we were able to rent our officeaccommodation very quickly,” Brian said.
Facility Manager, Lucy Maidman, has become the face of Store& Secure. Lucy said: “When customers come through the door,I’m probably the first person they see. As a new storage facility,
we’ve all had to learn quickly; from the management andfinance systems to taking part in the self storage Conferenceearlier this year in Portugal, we all need to become more expertin our field.”
The premise is simple within Store & Secure, Lucy commented:“We’re here to provide a service to help customers who arelooking to maximise their work or living space in a cost-effectiveand convenient way.”
With the success of the past year and building recognition, thefocus for the next year is growth and development. Brian said:“We are already ahead of schedule, in terms of our businessplan, and stage two is the growth of our facility by providingfurther units on a third floor. This is now in place six monthsahead of schedule.”
While the growth of the business has meant focusing oncontinued development, this also highlights a commitment tothe infrastructure programme sooner than expected. “We arevictims of our own success,” said Brian, “but we are aware of themarket demand and we need to satisfy that demand, by beingpersonable, knowledgeable and by enjoying what we do.”
As Store & Secure looks back over the last 12 months, it hasseen the business concentrating on operating efficiently, focusingon communicating its message and building a community wherealliances can be developed. The next year provides its ownchallenges and milestones, but one that the company is lookingto embrace.
Store & Secure – a growing facility
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COMPANY FEATURESelf Storage Focus SECURITY FEATURE
Contact Us
Freephone Customs Hotline: 0800 595 000
Secure website: www.hmrc.gov.uk/customs-hotline
By post: Freepost SEA 939, PO Box 100, Gravesend, Kent DA12 2BR
Freefax: 0800 528 0506
E-mail: [email protected]
HMRC will ensure that any information is passed to theappropriate team, who will then come out and investigate.
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As the industry leader, Steel Storage Europe (SSE) sees Healthand Safety (H&S) as an essential part of its client services. Aspart of its continued commitment to H&S, SSE has introducedan audit programme for its sites across the UK and mainlandEurope.
The audit programme is managed by Gillian Diller, SSE’sHealth and Safety Manager. “Our aim is to check that all ouroperatives are carrying out their work safely and in a suitableenvironment, which is why we have been visiting the sites tocheck on various elements of H&S to ensure the high standardthat is expected of an industry leader is being met”, said Gillian.“Mostly H&S is about common sense,” she continued, “thereare a lot of ways that our teams use their experience to ensuresafety on site. We want to encourage our operatives to thinkabout H&S and perform their duties accordingly. All of ourteams have the necessary training, which ensures that they haveall the relevant certificates to operate machinery and that thereis a fully qualified first aider at every site.”
SSE provides its clients with Method Statements and RiskAssessments, tailored to each project in the appropriatelanguage. It has also sourced consultants in the EU to ensurethat the services its clients receive is the same whether they arein the UK or in mainland Europe.
Alison Bailey, Senior H&S Consultant at Peak Facilities Ltd.,supports Steel Storage Europe. As an H&S consultancy firm, itinforms Steel Storage of any legislative changes regardingHealth and Safety and gives advice when needed. Alisonexplained: “Our on-going support to Steel Storage is backed byour qualified consultants. All our reviews include an opendiscussion with Steel Storage to ensure revisions are not only inline with new or revised legislation, but also with firmconsideration of Steel Storage’s specific role in the market andthe needs of its customers. We support Steel Storage Europe inthe belief that such documentation brings worth and value, bybeing unambiguous, concise and with the ability for practicableapplication.”
SSE sees the audit process as an opportunity to help clients(when necessary) with issues that could arise on their sites.“When the initial period of audits is complete SSE will introducea best practice policy for H&S, which will ensure that every clientknows what to expect from us and what is required from themto ensure a safe working environment”, said Gillian.
Steel Storage can help on any matter relating to your project;especially Health and Safety.
Health and Safety matters
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HEALTH AND SAFETY FEATURE
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The new laws under the Pensions Act 2008 require employersto automatically enrol eligible “jobholders” in a pensionscheme. These new laws come into force on the 1st of October,2012.
Who are Jobholders?
Jobholders are those who work in Great Britain under acontract and this will, therefore, include temporary workers. Inorder to be eligible for auto-enrolment, a jobholder must:
1. be at least 22 years old and not have reached state pensionage; and...
2. be earning more than £7,475 per year.
Staged 4 year implementation
There will be a 4 year implementation of the new laws from the1st of October, 2012 to the 1st of September, 2016. Employerswill be separated into bands according to their size (which willbe based on PAYE data) and assigned a date from which theywill be obliged to start the enrolment process; this is called the“staging date”. At this date, employers will write to all thoseworkers who are going to be automatically enrolled and alsothose who aren’t (those who are younger or older than thequalifying criteria, those who earn less than £7,475 and thosewho are already in a workplace pension scheme). Largeremployers will, therefore, become subject to the enrolmentduties before smaller employers. Employers will, however, beable to introduce a waiting period to delay a jobholder’s auto-enrolment for up to three months.
What if there is already a pension scheme in place?
Employers can use their own occupational pension scheme, orpersonal pension scheme if it meets the statutory qualityrequirements. Employers will be able to self-certify that theirexisting scheme meets the minimum requirements. If anemployer does not have an existing scheme or it does notqualify, they will need to enrol jobholders in NEST, which standsfor National Employment Savings Trust, the central scheme setup by the Government.
What if an employee does not want to be enrolled in thepension scheme?
Jobholders will be free to opt out of either type of scheme oncethey have joined, but while they are active members of eitherscheme, the employer will pay a minimum level of pensioncontribution. If a jobholder does opt out, the employer willneed to re-enrol them in a scheme at least once every threeyears. This provision is designed to ensure that jobholders whopreviously opted-out will need to reconsider their pensionprovision periodically.
What contributions will be made to the pension scheme?
The contributions required gradually increase between 2012and 2017 at the end of which 8% of an employee’s qualifyingearnings (which are those between £5,715 and £38,185) overa 12 month period must be paid into a scheme; this will be
made up of 3% employer contributions and 5% employeecontributions (including tax relief). Contributions can, however,exceed this minimum and employers will be able to contributemore if they wish, as many already do.
The Pensions Regulator will write to all employers 12 months inadvance of their staging date and again three months inadvance, to remind them when they need to take action andwhat they need to do to comply with the Act.
If you have any questions in relation to this or any other matter,please do not hesitate to contact Philippa Robbins or a memberof the Rooks Rider Employment Group.
The Pensions Act 2008
37
us EMPLOYMENT FEATUREVolume 4, 2011
The content of this article is provided for general information purposesonly and does not constitute legal advice. It is not a substitute forobtaining legal advice on a specific query and is not intended as such.While every reasonable effort is taken to ensure it is up to date, noresponsibility is accepted by the author or Rooks Rider Solicitors LLP forany consequence of relying on it.
Philippa Robbins
Philippa Robbins, an employmentlaw specialist with SSA Supplier
Member Rooks Rider, writesabout the Pensions Act 2008
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BUSINESS NEWS Self Storage Focus
HMRC’s Tax Evasion Taskforce
The government has charged HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)with the task of recovering more tax revenues owed to the state,producing more than £2bn per year in additional VAT revenue,and increasing the number of tax enquiries into businesses.
In response, HMRC has launched a renewed focus on taxevasion with task forces aimed at different sectors. Theseinclude:
• Businesses with turnovers close to and just under the VATregistration threshold
• The plumbing and gas fitting trades• Fast food outlets • Private tutors • E-market traders.
In addition to this, a new framework of 2010/2011 returns hasbeen announced, which includes substantially higher penaltiesfor late tax returns with daily penalties of £10 payable after the31st of January, 2012.
No small business or sole trader is immune from enquiries by thetax authorities. The following is some guidance on what youshould do if your business is selected for a tax inspection.
Be prepared
Don’t wait until you hear from the tax authorities; ensure that allyour bookkeeping records are stored and accessible now.HMRC may only ask to see some of your records to seekclarification on certain points. On the other hand they maylaunch a full enquiry, in which case they will want to see all yourbusiness records.
Compliance checks
You may be contacted by your local tax authority for acompliance check. This is not an inspection of a previous fullyear’s accounts, but a check on your current record-keepingpractices. While HMRC has stressed that compliance checksare not an educational service, you can view such checks as achance to learn how to get it right “once and for all” (anydiscrepancies found following a compliance check will besubject to full penalties). Find out more about the newcompliance checks at HMRC’s website: http://www.hmrc.gov.ukthen enter “compliance checks” in the search box.
Ask your accountant for advice
Tax enquiry specialists advise individuals not to handleinvestigations on their own, but to ask for professional adviceand support. Tax investigation support specialists can come andreview your business records, before HMRC does. They willhighlight any discrepancy which you can then disclose to theHMRC immediately, saving them time and effort. This will allowyou to reach an early settlement if any money is owed, and keeppenalties to a minimum. You can contact your accountants tofind out if they offer tax investigation support. If not, they canrefer you to a specialist. Remember, even if you have aprofessional adviser, you are personally responsible for your owntax affairs and the accuracy of all information supplied toHMRC.
Can you insure against tax inspections?
Accountancy firms and representative bodies for smallbusinesses, such as the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB),offer tax investigation insurance. By paying a monthly premiumor, in the case of the FSB, by becoming a member, companiescan be assured of access to a full tax investigation supportservice when required. For more information, visit:http://www.fsb.org.uk/info
What if HMRC finds something wrong?
The penalties that HMRC may charge for discrepancies are inaddition to the amount of money owed (the liability). Thesepenalties vary in severity from 30 to 100 per cent of the tax lost,so that those who try to comply are not punished as severely asthose who are deliberately seeking to gain an unfair advantagethrough non-compliance. As mentioned previously, disclosing adiscrepancy to HMRC before they visit can greatly reduce thisburden, to 0% in some cases. Find out how you can take careto avoid a penalty at HMRC’s website: http://www.hmrc.gov.ukthen enter “Take care to avoid a penalty” in the search box.
Can you appeal against a tax ruling?
Tax investigation specialists and individual taxpayers are able tolaunch appeals against judgements by the tax authorities. Thiswill go to a tribunal, which can be lengthy and stressful. Decidewhether it is worth challenging a ruling before taking thedecision to do so. Find out what to do if you disagree withHMRC decisions at HMRC’s website: http://www.hmrc.gov.ukthen enter “What to do if you disagree with an HMRC decision”in the search box.
Cut your risk
Rather than take a completely random approach, riskassessment profiling is used by the tax authorities to target thosebusinesses that are most likely to be non-compliant. There isno single factor that determines whether a company is deemedat risk, but more likely a combination of factors, such as:
1. Dramatic changes in income 2. Consistently late returns 3. Excessively high expenses in proportion to income.
Social Networking Employment Policy
New research from the Institute for Employment Studies,commissioned by ACAS, reveals that more than half ofemployees (55%) use social networking at work, either oncomputers or mobile phones.
While a few organisations have issued their own policies, theresearch found that fewer than one in ten employers have asocial media policy.
In response to the research, Peter Harwood (ACAS ChiefConciliator) and Stuart Smith (CEO Wood Holmes) have writtenan Employment Relations Comment paper on the impact ofsocial media on employers and trade unions. For moreinformation, visit: http://tinyurl.com/6lbrcrj
A recent research paper from the Institute of EmploymentStudies, commissioned by ACAS, highlights the difficulties someemployers are having in setting standards of behaviour for theuse of social networking tools. For more information, visit:http://tinyurl.com/5vzmzm7
The research paper calls for a common-sense approach:
• when drawing up a policy on social networking
• by treating “electronic behaviour” in the same way that “non-electronic behaviour” would be treated
• by reacting reasonably to issues around social networking, byasking “What is the likely impact on the organisation?”
ACAS guidance on producing a policy can be obtained at:http://tinyurl.com/6j4uasq
Common Commencement Dates
Although regulations can come into force throughout the year,a number of key Government Departments issue their changestwice a year, on the 6th of April and the 1st of October.
The following are the latest changes to legislation, which comeinto force on the Common Commencement Date of the 1st ofOctober, 2011.
1. The Agency Workers regulations
Relevant to all employers who employ temporary workers, oragency workers, through an intermediary.
From the 1st of October, 2011 agency workers, who work in the
same role with the same hirer for 12 continuous calendar weeks,will be entitled to the same basic employment and workingconditions as employees in comparable roles.
From the first day in a temporary role, the hirer must give agencyworkers access to any collective on-site facilities that would begiven to a comparable employee, e.g. staff canteens, childcare,parking and transport, and access to information on relevantjob vacancies within the business.
These rights are in addition to those which temporary andagency workers already enjoy under the Working TimeRegulations 1998.
2. National minimum wage rises
Relevant to all employers. The Department for Business,Innovation and Skills announced the new national minimumwage rates from the 1st of October, 2011:
• the adult rate increased by 15p to £6.08 an hour
• the rate for 18 to 20 year olds increased by 6p to £4.98
• the rate for 16 to 17 year olds increased by 4p to £3.68 an hour
• the rate for apprentices increased by 10p to £2.60 an hour.
3. Abolition of default retirement age
Relevant to all employers. Employers can abolish retirementages in their organisation altogether; or maintain a retirementage, which they can objectively justify, for some or all roles.
Get involved
The Red Tape Challenge (RTC) website gives the public a chanceto have their say on regulations that affect their everyday lives;whether it’s to speak up for well-designed rules that are there toprotect, or to challenge badly designed regulations that are anunnecessary burden. Have your say at the RTC website; visit:http://tinyurl.com/3rbzm7a
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Self Storage Focus MEMBERS’ BENEFITS MEMBERS’ BENEFITS
Membership of the SSA UK brings much value to your businessHere is a review of the main membership benefits
you receive as an SSA UK member
The SSA UK represents and supports the majority of main selfstorage operators and suppliers in the United Kingdom. Sincethe late 1990s, the Association has worked to enhance, promoteand protect the interests of all those who own, operate and investin self storage in the UK. The Association is directed byexperienced, non-executive directors from member companies.
Acting as the authoritative voice of the industry, the Associationseeks to promote best practice and facilitate the growth of theself storage industry in the UK. The SSA UK’s membershipstandard assures its members adhere to strict operatingprinciples and the Association’s best practice guidelines.
Membership of the Association brings a number of significantbenefits. These include automatic membership of the Federationof European Self Storage Associations (FEDESSA) and throughit, contact with the industry throughout Europe and theoverwhelming support of the whole industry in fighting its corneragainst unwise regulations. The SSA UK also has affiliationswith similar bodies in the USA and Australasia. Its reputation ishigh throughout the world.
SSA UK Accreditation
All Full Operator Members receive an SSA UK MembershipCertificate and use of the SSA UK logo on their websites,signage, stationery, etc. Customers will know that they will bereceiving a first class service from those members displaying theSSA UK logo. Details of full members also appear on the“Locate a Store” facility on the SSA UK website.
FREE Licence Agreement
Once approved as a Full Member, operators have access to aFREE Licence to Store Goods (i.e. a contract with terms andconditions) which represents a huge cost saving. Members canalso be reassured that this Licence has been developed and usedby most members over many years. It is currently (October,2011) being refined to meet the changing demands on, andneeds of this growing industry.
Membership Support Services
The experienced and supportive SSA UK Head Office team areable to answer most queries from members and if they can’t,they will put you in touch with someone in the industry who can.Members also have access to all SSA UK guidelines and supporton issues such as insurance, late payers and lien (non-payment)procedures, fire safety and security. It is always on the look-outfor further new benefits. The SSA UK also provides memberswith access to:
• FREE legal and PR Helplines
• Utility savings through the Spiral Group
• StorePAK retail products (boxes and packaging) throughSmithpack.
Research, Studies and Projects
Since 2006, the SSA UK has carried out an annual survey of itsmembers, offering a very valuable insight into the self storageindustry in the UK. In 2011, the survey report was produced inassociation with Drivers Jonas Deloitte and has benefited fromtheir analysis of the factors relevant to self storage in the UK.This will be repeated in 2012 and discussions have alreadytaken place on enhancing the next report and including somestatistics from the continent of Europe.
The SSA UK is also currently (October, 2011) involved in anumber of smaller projects to continually improve the supportand advice that they provide. Actively led and supported byBoard members, current projects include:
• Communication - improving how the Associationcommunicates with its members
• Data protection - considering the legal implications anddeveloping advice, including the impact on the LicenceAgreement (expected to be available in early 2012)
• Security - developing advice, improving the use of SecurityBulletins, and speeding up the reporting process.
Networking and meetings
One of the most valuable benefits of membership is access tothe contact details of fellow members and suppliers and theirexpertise on all aspects of the construction and operation of selfstorage facilities. This is particularly useful for those just settingout in the industry. Free regional meetings and networkingevents, plus the Annual European Conference, provide on-goingopportunities to discuss and share ideas with industryprofessionals and to benefit from others’ experiences.
All members benefit from reduced rates for attendance atconferences.
Communications
The SSA UK has a number of ways of communicating with itsmembers, including:
• Its website, with a dedicated “Members Only” section
• Monthly newsletters, offering the latest industry informationand advice
• FREE quarterly copy of the SSA UK’s Focus magazine; theonly self storage magazine in the UK and Europe
• Security Bulletins to alert members about incidents, as andwhen they occur.
Advocacy and Government Relations
The SSA UK has built a close working relationship with manygovernment bodies and agencies. It is a member of the BritishProperty Federation and the Trade Association Forum.
The Association is currently working with HMRC, the LondonMetropolitan Police (MPS), the Serious Organised Crime Agency(SOCA) and the UK Border Agency to develop specific securityguidance, tailored to the self storage industry (expected to be
available early in 2012). Earlier this year, the first Self StorageSecurity Conference was jointly hosted by the SSA UK and theSpecialist Crime Directorate of the MPS. The event wasprompted by an increase in the number of security and criminalincidents in the industry over the past few months and aparticular concern about fraud.
“We have benefited hugely from beingmembers of the SSA UK, especially as asmall, independent operator. Attendingconferences has given us access to anetwork of suppliers who are able notonly to perform certain specialist taskswith a great deal more experience of thesector than we have, but who are alsoable to advise us informally to help shapeour decision making as the businessgrows. It is also a good opportunity formembers to meet other operators and toshare experiences, with everything fromthe current trading environment to dealingwith difficult clients or security risks beingdiscussed on a regular basis. Being ableto use and display the SSA UK logo is alsoof significant commercial benefit, helpingcustomers to choose an independentoperator with confidence.”
Frederic de Ryckman de BetzAttic Self Storage
“Smart Storage has been a member of theSSA UK since opening its first store in2005. Membership has assisted us on anumber of levels. It has provided a forumto meet numerous contacts within theindustry, including suppliers andoperators, the opportunity to attendindustry specific training courses andinvaluable industry data through theannual industry survey. However, one ofthe main benefits is the credibilitymembership provides when marketingand selling our business to ourcustomers.”
Jon WylesManaging Director, Smart Storage Ltd.
“Store & Secure has benefited in the past year as an SSA UK member. We are arelatively new company within the marketplace and affiliation as a member enhancesour reputation and gives us credence that we do things “the right way”. An associationwith the SSA UK gives us industry recognition and one that we are proud to beassociated with.”
Lucy MaidmanFacility Manager, Store & Secure
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