The Self Storage Association UK’s 2026 annual industry report counts 3,143 self storage stores across the UK, with 67.5 million square feet of storage space and annual turnover of £1.3 billion. The association describes it as one of the fastest-growing commercial property sectors in the UK. For how the industry began, see when self storage started in the UK.
Where the figures come from
The Self Storage Association UK (SSA UK) is the industry’s main trade association, and 2026 is the 19th year it has surveyed the sector. Its report, produced with the property consultancy Cushman & Wakefield, gathers data from operators, from people using self storage, and from the general public.
SSA UK is candid that the count is an estimate. Self storage sites aren’t officially registered anywhere, and small sites in rural areas can open with little marketing, so no one can count every one exactly.
How fast it’s growing
SSA UK says the 2026 report shows record growth. Its previous figures put the industry at about 2,900 sites with around 64 million square feet of space, and estimated turnover for 2024 at £1.2 billion.
Who uses it, and how
A few figures from the 2026 report give a feel for what self storage looks like today:
- 76% of use is by households, and lack of space at home is the main reason they give for storing.
- Average occupancy across all stores is 74.5%.
- 94.2% of stores offer online booking, and 90.8% use monitored CCTV.
- The average store has 2.6 staff.
- Container storage makes up 40% of new store openings.
What it means for you
A bigger industry means more choice, so it helps to know what to look for. SSA UK members must meet the European Standard for self storage, which sets minimum conditions for security and customer protection, to keep their membership. We’re a member, and our sites are watched around the clock by a professional CCTV monitoring company, with access control on the outside doors and an alarm on every unit. You can book with us online too.
To find a site near you, see our locations, get a price online, or call us on 0800 2545585.
Related questions
- Is Wigwam a member of the Self Storage Association?
- Do you have CCTV?
- How do I know what unit size I need?
Further reading
- SSA UK: UK Annual Industry Report 2026
- SSA UK: Size of the industry