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  • October 02, 2024 9:52 AM | Melissa Huff (Administrator)

    Mother Nature can be a cruel mistress. Making landfall as a category four hurricane in Florida, she tore through the Sunshine State with wind speeds of more than 100mph on September 26. But she didn’t stop there. Helene continued her destructive path, cutting across the southeast US and wreaking havoc on communities within Georgia, the Carolinas, and Tennessee.  

    Analysts are saying that Helene may wind up being one of the country’s most devastating disasters on record, taking the lives of at least 121 people with hundreds more still missing. A preliminary estimate by Moody's Analytics says the storm could carry an economic cost in the tens of billions of dollars.

    Self-storage facilities, which often play a role in recovery, have also taken a hit. U-Haul, which generously offers 30 days of free self-storage disaster relief to people impacted by natural disasters, is no exception. Although the company has 437 U-Haul stores providing disaster relief across multiple states, they’re not immune to the fury of Helene as seen in this photo from a U-Haul facility on Swannanoa River Road in Asheville, North Carolina. The before and after photos are both striking – and heartbreaking.

    READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

  • August 30, 2024 12:59 PM | Melissa Huff (Administrator)

    PRESS RELEASE

    XPS Solutions Partners with KISS (Keep It Simple Storage) and LiveSwitch to Elevate Customer Engagement Through Live Video for Self-Storage Facilities

    XPS Solutions, the longest-tenured and leading contact center for the self-storage industry, is excited to announce a technology-enabled service integration with strategic providers to provide live video support services for self-storage.  Both technology partners have provided XPS with video gateways that enable live video support services for rentals, remote management, and tenant support services for participating client properties.  These two partners provide the technology that integrates with XPS Solutions self-storage teams.  These tech-enabled partnerships mark another new chapter in virtual solutions, providing cutting-edge live video customer engagement for self-storage facilities.

    For over 24 years, XPS Solutions has consistently prioritized product enhancement and seamless integration to meet the evolving needs of independent self-storage owners and operators. In alignment with this mission, XPS Solutions now integrates with both KISS and LiveSwitch, allowing facility owners to leverage live video technology supported by XPS Solutions' real-time, professional, self-storage-experienced staff members.


    KISS (Keep It Simple Storage), known for its innovative remote-management technology solutions, provides services such as two-way smart video, a mobile app, NFC smart locks, and a self-storage auto-attendant.

    LiveSwitch, a leader in live video solutions, provides software that enables real-time, face-to-face communication between self-storage facilities and their customers. Initiate a live video connection through a text or QR code on the facility’s existing hardware and customer's phone without downloading new software or apps.


    Through these partnerships, XPS Solutions enhances these technology offerings by providing live video staffing to ensure high-level engagement with tenants and prospects. This allows self-storage owners to manage their facilities remotely while reducing operating expenses (OPEX). XPS Solutions' Remote Managers, based in our Richardson, Texas office, are self-storage experts with facility management backgrounds, delivering professional and knowledgeable service. By integrating our partners' technology with XPS Solutions' Remote Management services, we empower self-storage facilities with 54 hours of live video support weekly, covering tenant assistance, inquiries, and virtual leasing. Clients also benefit from a comprehensive range of contact center services, including 104 hours of phone agent support, the RentUp leasing platform, MyStorPal mobile app, 24/7 IVR payment solutions, and more. This seamless integration enables XPS agents to efficiently manage tenant details, inventory, pricing, and promotions, ensuring a streamlined and effective rental process.

    “Our mission at XPS is “Xperience Matters”.  At the property level, some tenants prefer a live face and voice.  Hiring and staffing isn’t the easiest task for many properties, so this is our answer to that problem.  Live video allows for this exchange, providing a virtual on-site experience through deploying this technology via our self-storage experienced teams.  Our task is to help properties bring down the cost of support while improving the overall tenant experience.  This combined initiative with KISS and LiveSwitch allows XPS to enable this option for any property,” said John Traver, CEO at XPS Solutions. “By partnering with KISS and LiveSwitch, we can combine live video engagement with our robust remote management services, giving facility owners the tools they need to enhance operations, improve customer experience, and ultimately increase occupancy.”

    We invite all attendees of the SSA 2024 Fall Conference & Tradeshow to visit Booth 360 to see a live demo and learn more about this exciting new offering. Come see how XPS Solutions, KISS, and LiveSwitch can transform your self-storage operations.

    For additional insights into XPS Solutions, please contact Andrew Stavros at (972) 865-4256 or astavros@xpsusa.com.

    For additional insights into KISS, please contact Michael Starkman, COO at (412) 639-5752 or michael@keepitsimplestorage.com

    For additional insights into LiveSwitch, please visit https://www.liveswitch.com/get-in-touch or contact sales@liveswitch.com.

    About XPS Solutions

    Established in 2000 as the self-storage industry’s original dedicated call center, XPS Solutions has continuously provided cutting-edge remote management solutions for self-storage property operators. Over the years, XPS has evolved to offer a full suite of services, including inbound call handling, live video staffing, Remote Management coverage, live tenant support, rental services, and more. Today, XPS Solutions handles thousands of tenant support calls, processes millions in payments, and rents thousands of units per month for thousands of facilities across North America.

    Xperience Matters. Yours. Theirs. Ours.TM

    Learn More


  • August 22, 2024 3:18 PM | Melissa Huff (Administrator)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    StorSuite Announces the Development of a Full API Integration with StorEdge for FineView Marketing Websites Transforming the Rental Process with a Seamless Checkout Experience

    Austin, Texas – August 21, 2024 – StorSuite, a leader in innovative solutions for the self-storage industry, is thrilled to announce the release of its latest product, the StorEdge Full API Integration for FineView marketing websites. This integration transforms the rental process by eliminating the need to redirect customers to the StorEdge rental center upon checkout, offering a more seamless and fluid customer experience.

    The StorEdge Full API Integration allows customers to complete their rental and checkout process directly on your website, providing a cohesive and uninterrupted experience. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also allows for more accurate tracking of Google Ads rental conversion activity, giving businesses better insights into their marketing effectiveness.

    “We are excited to bring the StorEdge Full API Integration to market,” said Christina Alvino, CEO & Cofounder at StorSuite. “This integration allows our clients to maintain their branding and user experience throughout the rental process, which in turn improves customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.”

    Key features of the StorEdge Full API Integration include:

    • Seamless Customer Experience: Keep the entire rental process on your website without redirecting to the StorEdge rental center.

    • One Fluid Rental and Checkout Process: Customers enjoy a streamlined, uninterrupted rental journey.

    • Enhanced Tracking: More accurately track Google Ads rental conversion activity, improving marketing analytics and strategy.

    • Early adopters of the StorEdge Full API Integration have praised its ability to provide a consistent user experience and its positive impact on customer retention and satisfaction.

    StorSuite, based in Austin, Texas, has a proven track record of delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to the needs of the self-storage industry. With the introduction of the StorEdge Full API Integration, StorSuite continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation and excellence

    For more information about the StorEdge Full API Integration or to schedule a demo, visit our website at www.storsuite.com or contact Scott Worden at 520-652-0851 or scottw@storsuite.com.

    About StorSuite

    StorSuite is a premier service provider in the self-storage industry, offering a comprehensive suite of services, including tenant protection, marketing and website solutions, tenant communication, and third-party management. StorSuite is committed to elevating the self-storage experience through exceptional service, technological innovation, and a strong focus on customer relationships.

    For more information, please visit www.fineviewmarketing.com or www.storsuite.com or contact:

    Scott Worden

    Director of Business Development

    Email: scottw@storsuite.com

    Phone: 520-652-0851


  • June 28, 2024 10:39 AM | Melissa Huff (Administrator)

    PRESS RELEASE

    OpenTech Alliance Announces C-Suite Promotions

    For Immediate Release

    (June 28th, 2024) – Phoenix, AZ, OpenTech Alliancethe PropTech leader in self storage, has expanded its leadership team and today announced the promotion of four leaders responsible for finance, marketing and support operations. This announcement comes just one year after the company announced its official international business expansion, supporting the company’s rapid growth and vision to become a worldwide provider of innovative, high-quality self storage technology solutions.

    “We have amazing leaders at OpenTech and we are happy to be promoting a few. I am eager to make some room in the C-Suite for Tania, Kristi and Dan Scaman, recently promoted to COO, and support them as they usher in a new era at OpenTech,” said Robert A. Chiti, Founder and CEO at OpenTech Alliance. “They are already setting higher bars for both the customer and employee experience and driving phenomenal outcomes for our organization. I am confident our customers and employees will enjoy the fresh ideas and positive vibes from all of these leaders.”  

    Today’s C-level promotions include: 

    • Tania Miaoulis, Chief Financial Officer – Miaoulis, a licensed CPA in Arizona since 2009, brings a wealth of experience to OpenTech, having previously served as Controller for a $400M organization and Finance Director for a company that grew from $50M to $200M. She joined OpenTech as Vice President of Accounting & Finance in 2023 and led the implementation of new processes, systems, and internal controls to improve company efficiency and risk mitigation, and payment processing for its customers. As the Chief Financial Officer, Miaoulis will lead financial operations, drive strategic financial planning and analysis, develop strategies for capital allocation, optimize working capital to minimize costs and risks and provide insights for decision-making and growth strategies.
    • Kristi Adams, Chief Marketing Officer – Adams has led marketing efforts at CubeSmart, Fort Box and other self storage operations across the U.S. and in Europe, responsible for establishing and maintaining brand identity and spearheading innovative marketing efforts to drive demand from consumers. She joined OpenTech in 2019 as the Vice President of Marketing. Adams is responsible for delivering marketing support for 8 product lines, including the e-commerce brand StorageTreasures. Under her leadership, the OpenTech marketing team has significantly advanced brand recognition and helped grow company revenue to over $50M in five years. As the Chief Marketing Officer, Adams will leverage her 20 years of self storage experience to oversee global marketing initiatives, brand strategy and customer engagement to ensure OpenTech’s continued market leadership and expansion.    

    In addition, OpenTech has also promoted the following key performers: 

    • Tina Berlingeri, VP of Call Center Operations – Berlingeri served as Director of Member Services at NASM and United Healthcare before joining OpenTech Alliance in 2016. As the Call Center Director, Berlingeri has been instrumental in supporting the growth and development of policies, procedures, and personnel to deliver exceptional service to storage operators and their customers. As Vice President of Call Center Operations, Berlingeri will oversee operational processes and implement strategies to improve efficiency, support customer satisfaction and enhance service delivery.
    • Kimberly Robinson, VP of Marketing – Prior to joining OpenTech, Robinson served in Director roles for statewide non-profit organizations, heading up marketing, fundraising, and event-management functions for nine years. Robinson joined OpenTech in 2019 as Creative Content Manager where she leveraged her content expertise to help market the company’s industry-leading technology solutions. She was promoted to Director of Marketing Communications in 2022, and now joins the leadership team as Vice President of Marketing to lead demand generation, product marketing and support and paid media strategy.  

    These strategic appointments reinforce the company’s commitment to leveraging internal talent and continued investment in opportunities for its people to develop their careers at OpenTech.

     
    OpenTech Alliance, Inc.

    2101 W. Peoria Ave, # 100

    Phoenix, AZ  85029

    602.749.9370

    opentechalliance.com

     
    Media Contact:

    Kimberly Robinson

    OpenTech Alliance, Inc.

    Direct: 602.324.8698

    krobinson@opentechalliance.com

     

     

     

    About OpenTech Alliance, Inc.
    OpenTech Alliance, Inc. is the leading PropTech provider in the self storage industry. The company's products and services include the INSOMNIAC® line of full-service kiosks, INSOMNIAC Live! call center solutions, INSOMNIAC CIA access control systems, INSOMNIAC SmartLock electronic locks and the StorageTreasures.com online storage auctions website. OpenTech solutions are designed to improve the customer experience, reduce operating costs and increase revenues for self storage facilities. OpenTech Alliance, the OpenTech logo and INSOMNIAC are trademarks of OpenTech Alliance, Inc. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners. 


  • June 12, 2024 9:30 AM | Melissa Huff (Administrator)

    Storable Acquires StorageAuctions.com Elevating Delinquency Management

    Integration Delivers Truly Comprehensive End-to-End Solution for Self-Storage Operations

    AUSTIN, TX – June 11, 2024 – Storable, the leader in integrated technology solutions for the self-storage industry, is proud to announce its acquisition of StorageAuctions.com, the premier online platform for self-storage auctions. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone, creating the only platform to offer an end-to-end corporate delinquency solution in-house.

    “Bringing StorageAuctions.com into the Storable family solidifies us as a truly comprehensive technology platform that spans the entire self-storage lifecycle,” stated Chuck Gordon, CEO of Storable. “Most operators find auctions challenging and time-consuming. We can now simplify the auction process as part of our end-to-end offering, transforming it into a more efficient experience that removes friction and enhances operations..”

    By integrating StorageAuctions.com’s robust online auction services, Storable will improve its existing offerings to include a dynamic auction module that addresses the often dreaded but necessary part of storage management—clearing delinquent units. This integration allows for smoother transitions and greater efficiency in vacating units, thereby optimizing the re-rental process and enhancing overall operational effectiveness.

    “Becoming part of the Storable team is a huge step forward for us,” said Lonnie Bickford, Owner of StorageAuctions.com. “It allows us to expand our auction services and capabilities by tapping into Storable’s cutting-edge technology and their wide presence across the storage industry. This partnership is going to transform how storage auctions are run and will help self-storage operators get the highest possible returns while providing an improved experience for bidders and buyers”

    The acquisition was finalized on June 4, 2024. StorageAuctions.com will operate as a division of Storable. Current customers of both companies can expect seamless continuation of all existing services and support.

    About Storable

    Storable is the leading provider of integrated technology solutions, powering the self-storage, marine and RV/Campground  industries. Storable is committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation, offering a suite of products that includes management software, marketplace, websites, access control, insurance, payments, and more. Storable takes pride in supporting operators and managers along each step of their journey and enabling them to achieve their goals. For more information, visit www.storable.com.

    About StorageAuctions.com

    StorageAuctions.com is a leading online platform specializing in storage unit auctions. Established by a veteran in the self-storage sector, the platform caters to a broad audience by simplifying the auction process and expanding the reach of auction events, thereby increasing unit sales potential. For more details, visit StorageAuctions.com’s website.

    https://www.storable.com/about-us/news/storable-acquires-storageauctions-com-elevating-deliquency-management/



  • June 07, 2024 9:30 AM | Melissa Huff (Administrator)

    Storagely Partners with Calcumate to End Unit Size Errors and Confusion for Self Storage Customers

    Storagely becomes the first to integrate Calcumate as a standard feature.

    Winston-Salem, USA and Melbourne, Australia - 6 June 2024 – Storagely has today become the first company in the world to choose to integrate Calcumate, the world’s leading 3D storage calculator (size guide), directly into its technology as a standard feature.

    From today, all customers on Storagely’s Professional and Enterprise packages will have access to Calcumate as a standard inclusion. Not only will Calcumate be included as standard, but it will be integrated deeply within the Storagely booking flow. The Calcumate functionality will be rolled out progressively to Storagely’s existing customers over the next six weeks.

    A staggering ~80% of self-storage tenants have never rented a unit before, often resulting in unnecessary stress and confusion during the rental process. The primary source of this anxiety and confusion is not knowing the right unit size to rent, and it is frequently a reason why website visitors choose to “abandon cart” and not rent straight away online. 

    Click to read read the full Press Release


  • January 09, 2024 11:43 AM | Melissa Huff (Administrator)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 8, 2024

    Storage Structures is now Elevate Structures

    New name and innovations create opportunities for customers in self-storage,  

    multifamily, hotel, and student housing construction markets. 

    VILLA RICA, GA – January 8, 2024 – Storage Structures, a division of Central States, announced today the rebranding of the business to Elevate Structures. Elevate will continue to provide the self-storage industry with premier products and services while expanding into multifamily, hotel, and student housing construction markets. The move responds to customer demand for Elevate’s primary structure expertise and innovation in markets adjacent to self-storage. The patented Alpha Framing System with new enhancements remains a cornerstone of Elevate's offering. Today, the product offering expands with the introduction of self-storage doors and hallway systems. 

    "We are thrilled to serve the storage market with game-changing innovations and to bring our metal framing expertise to other construction segments where our customers build,” said Richard Allen, President of Elevate Structures.  “The new brand reflects our employee-owners’ commitment to forward-looking solutions and project excellence." 

    Over the decades, Elevate has been trusted to provide metal framing for over 77 million square feet of structures across the country. Recognized in 2020 as the Most Innovative Product (Inside Self Storage), the company’s Alpha Framing System has been designed in over 240 self-storage buildings nationwide. 

    Customers of Elevate Structures benefit from the following:  

    Employee-owned commitment: Elevate is a 100% employee-owned business. Every employee-owner is personally invested in ensuring customer satisfaction and sustained long-term success. 

    New comprehensive offerings to meet customers’ needs: In the spring of 2024, production of a new proprietary door and hallway system begins. As part of the metal building package, it is supported by the elevated service that self-storage customers require. Further, the patented Alpha Framing System will be offered with integrated lateral framing enhancements which further reduces in-field installation time for seismically sensitive multi-story buildings. 

    Serving self-storage, hotel, multifamily, and student housing markets: Elevate has been invited to participate in expanding markets, because of the partnerships cultivated with current customers diversified into those areas. The repetitive layout of a mid-rise hotel, multifamily residence, or student housing structure lends itself to the proven benefits of the Alpha Framing System. Alpha’s unique columns and beams, factory-assembled in Central States’ facilities, install up to 3x faster than traditional framing methods in the self-storage industry, resulting in significant construction time and money savings for each project. 

    About Elevate Structures 

    Elevate Structures (elevatecs.com), formally known as Storage Structures, was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Villa Rica, Georgia. Elevate is a national leader in innovation and design for the self-storage industry with a dedicated nationwide team of experts who design, procure, and install metal building components for single-story, boat and RV storage, and multi-story self-storage buildings. Elevate is the exclusive provider of the patented Alpha Framing System, which is engineered to significantly shorten construction time for multi-story construction and eliminate concrete staining on partition panels.   

    About Central States 

    Central States Manufacturing, Inc. (centralstatesco.com) is 100% employee-owned and was founded in 1988. With over 1,300 employee-owners and 11 regional manufacturing facilities and others under construction, the company serves over 6,000 commercial, architectural, post frame, and residential contractors and customers across the United States. Central States is a leading manufacturer of a diverse range of metal roofing and wall panel profiles, along with a comprehensive line of trim, accessories, and structural purlins. 

    Visit our Website


  • October 17, 2023 9:59 AM | Melissa Huff (Administrator)

    PRESS RELEASE

    XPS Solutions, is excited to announce the release of the full service Remote Management Suite™ for independent self storage owners and operators.

    For over 20 years, XPS Solutions has been the leader in virtual contact center solutions for the self storage industry. In this 20+ years we have continuously innovated and offered remote management solutions such as 24/7 Pay by Phone, over the phone rentals, a tenant facing mobile app and more to help self storage owners enhance the customer experience, reduce labor costs and drive profitability.

    After months of consultation and collaboration with our valued clients, we are excited to announce the public launch of our Remote Management Suite™. This suite is designed to greatly expand from call center services and offer owners comprehensive management solutions to help owners with facilities that are challenging to staff or would like to reduce the overhead and expense at their facilities. The XPS Remote Management Suite™ offers two distinct advantages to owners and operators.

    First, it is led by a team of experienced self storage leaders. We have hired regional, district, and store managers to oversee the program, ensuring top-notch, industry experienced service.

    Second, our suite offers a range of services designed to ease the workload and labor for owners seeking remote solutions. From expanded management staffing to comprehensive move-in and move-out services, we have you covered.

    The XPS Solutions Remote Management Suite™ includes seven core solutions in addition to our standard call center services:

    • Expanded staffing coverage: Enjoy 50 hours of management staffing per week.

    • Outbound sales lead follow-up: We'll help you turn leads into customers.

    • Comprehensive move-in services: We handle all paperwork, verification, and insurance.

    • Comprehensive move-out services: Units are thoroughly verified and prepared for re-entry into inventory.

    • Expanded tenant support: We assist with auto-pay, address changes, billing updates and more.

    • Delinquent payment support: Our automated procedures help manage delinquent accounts.

    • XPS Mail integration: Connect with your website and capture sales opportunities, with remote managers available to answer inquiries.

    "From day one in December 2000 at XPS, we were in the remote management business, said John Traver, Owner and CEO of XPS Solutions.  Back then, we took calls with a centralized call center.  Now, 24 years later, one can see how that call center evolved into a contact center.  Next, it provided a payment processing hub, then a rental team, and today, it supports collections, move-ins/move-outs, and virtually anything an on-site property team will need to be prepared to do.  We do this with technology, integrations, and the proper training and people.  And we aim to do it for a fraction of the direct cost the properties will incur on their own.  It's a model the REITs have been using to conquest market share from the independents for decades in the self-storage space."

    "Because the tenant experience is essential to a property, you want to be proactive at expanding your hours of coverage and providing these services.  Our mission is to continually invest in remotely managed solutions with the right people and technology, furthering this evolution of the Remote Management Suite." 

    Jennifer Downer, Chief Operating Officer of XPS Solutions states, “We are excited to be able to offer Remote Management services to owners who are looking for alternative solutions to increase their bottom line. I'm confident that our team of leaders and remote managers will call on their years of self-storage experience to provide the utmost service to our customers.”

    Experience the convenience and expertise of XPS Solutions Remote Management Suite™. Contact us today to learn more.

    For more information regarding XPS Solutions services, include the Remote Management Suite™, contact Sherry Miller at (972) 865-4237 or smiller2@xpsusa.com.

    Learn More About XPS Remote Management Suite

    XPS Solutions is the original centralized sales and support center focused on providing solutions for remote management practices for self-storage properties. We began our journey in the industry in 2000, pioneering the first call center solely for self storage operators. We catch your calls, create SEO solutions, provide tenant support, and deliver a best-in-class mobile application for exceptional tenant experiences. Our innovative tools and strategies impact your occupancy and your average stay. 


  • May 20, 2021 7:52 AM | Melissa Huff (Administrator)

    SB101 passed the House yesterday evening with a favorable vote of 74 to 24!

    All the hard work... hours spent making phone calls, sending emails, visiting properties, updating talking points, putting together contact lists, creating e-blasts... it was all worth it!

    SB101 has passed and is on its way to the Governor's desk for signature.

    This new legislature will be effective on January 1, 2022.

    Make plans to attend the Fall Conference on November 9-10th to learn the details of the bill from Scott Zucker!

    Thanks again guys!

    We couldn't have done it without you!

    ~Melissa Huff

  • April 30, 2021 3:25 PM | Melissa Huff (Administrator)

    SB101 is halfway there... Next step is the House of Representatives. 

    We still have a fight ahead. Your support and participation in this Association has never been more valuable than it is right now! 

    Stay tuned for details on how YOU can help make this bill a reality.

    If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@ssala.org

    Thanks so much!
    ~Melissa Huff

    Association Director


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Third party advertisements and links to other sites where goods or services are advertised are not endorsements or recommendations by the Louisiana Self Storage Association of the third party sites, goods or services. The SSALA takes no responsibility for the content of the ads, promises made, or the quality/reliability of the products or services offered in all advertisements. 

Louisiana Self Storage Association

13434 Plank Rd, Baker, LA 70714

Email: info@ssala.org

Phone: 225-955-0015

NOTICE TO TENANTS

The SSALA thanks you for supporting our industry. However, the SSALA is a not-for-profit trade association and does not mediate or resolve disputes between self storage operators and tenants. For issues with your facility or unit, please review your rental agreement and contact the individual named there. Alternatively, call, email, or visit the facility in person to address and resolve the concern. SSALA does not have the power, authority, or ability to remedy any disputes between an operator and a tenant.

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