Self storage arrived in the UK in the early 1980s, and the first sites were mostly in London, according to the Self Storage Association UK. The idea came from the United States, where self storage facilities first appeared in the 1960s.
A short history
1960s. Self storage begins in the United States. SSA UK says the American market now runs to tens of thousands of facilities.
Early 1980s. Self storage is introduced to the UK, at first concentrated in London.
1995. The Self Storage Association UK (SSA UK) is set up as the industry’s trade association. It now represents operators and suppliers, promotes good practice, and sets a standard its members must meet.
Mid-2000s. SSA UK’s published annual industry reports go back to 2004-2005. The 2026 edition marks the 19th year it has surveyed the sector.
2026. SSA UK’s latest report counts 3,143 stores across the UK, with 67.5 million square feet of storage space and annual turnover of £1.3 billion.
Why it grew
SSA UK puts the growth down to a few things. For households, it’s mainly a lack of space and life events such as moving home. For businesses, it’s a flexible place for stock, equipment and archives. And as modern storage buildings have appeared in prominent spots in towns and cities, more people have come to know what self storage is.
Its 2026 report adds two signs of how the industry is changing: 76% of use is now by households, and container storage makes up 40% of new store openings. For the full count of stores, space and turnover, see how big the UK self storage industry is.
Where we fit in
We provide self storage in towns and city suburbs, for local households and businesses, and we’re a member of SSA UK. The idea is still a simple one: a secure space of your own, for as long as you need it, that you can get to when it suits you. With us, access is normally 6am to 10pm, seven days a week, our sites are watched around the clock by a professional CCTV monitoring company, and every unit has its own alarm.
To find a site near you, see our locations, or get a price online. Any questions, call us on 0800 2545585.
Related questions
- Is Wigwam a member of the Self Storage Association?
- When can I get to my storage unit, and can I come early or late?
- How do I know what unit size I need?
Further reading
- SSA UK: Industry info
- SSA UK: About the Self Storage Association