Author Archives: Ellie Hardy

At Here Self Storage, we’re committed to enhancing your storage experience through cutting-edge technology. That’s why we’ve integrated the Nokē® Smart Entry System into our facilities, providing you with seamless and secure 24-hour access to your storage unit.

What Is the Nokē® Smart Entry System?

The Nokē® Smart Entry System is an advanced Bluetooth-enabled access control solution designed specifically for self-storage facilities. Created by Janus International, it replaces traditional locks and keys with a digital system that allows you to access your unit using your smartphone. This modern approach not only enhances security but also offers unparalleled convenience.

Key Features and Benefits:

• 24/7 Access: With Nokē®, you’re no longer restricted by office hours. Access your storage unit whenever it’s convenient for you, day or night.
• Enhanced Security: Traditional locks can be vulnerable to tampering. Nokē® utilizes encrypted Bluetooth technology, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Additionally, each access event is logged, providing a detailed record of who accessed the unit and when.
• Digital Key Sharing: Need to grant access to family members or employees? Easily share digital keys through the app, with the ability to set permissions and revoke access as needed.
• User-Friendly App: The intuitive smartphone application allows you to manage access, view entry logs, and receive notifications, all from the palm of your hand.

How It Works:

1. Smartphone Access: Download the Nokē® app to your smartphone. Once registered, your phone becomes your digital key.
2. Bluetooth Connectivity: When you arrive at our facility, the app communicates with the Nokē® devices via Bluetooth, granting you access to the necessary gates, entry points, elevators, and your individual unit.
3. Real-Time Monitoring: Our management system monitors access in real-time, ensuring the highest level of security and providing assistance if needed.

Why We Chose Nokē®:

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience and security are paramount. By implementing the Nokē® Smart Entry System, we’re able to offer a state-of-the-art storage solution that meets the evolving needs of our customers. Whether you’re a busy professional, a business owner, or someone in between, the flexibility of 24-hour access ensures that your belongings are always within reach.

Experience the future of self storage with Here and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your items are secure and accessible whenever you need them.

For more information about the Nokē® Smart Entry System, visit Janus International’s official page or speak to our store team today.

Here Self Storage is proud to announce a new partnership with Toilet Twinning, an initiative that tackles global sanitation challenges by providing clean and safe toilets to disadvantaged communities. Through this partnership, Here Self Storage has recently twinned a toilet at our Loughborough location and our upcoming Northampton store, with plans to twin a toilet with all our future locations. This collaboration not only provides vital resources to those in need but also allows our stores to contribute to an inspiring mission that transforms lives through improved sanitation.

What is Toilet Twinning?

Toilet Twinning is an innovative charity initiative that empowers people worldwide by providing toilets, clean water, and education on hygiene. By “twinning” a toilet in a location like our Loughborough store, Toilet Twinning funds the construction of safe, sanitary toilets in communities that lack these essential facilities. Lack of access to clean toilets and sanitation can lead to severe health problems, missed education, and compromised safety—especially for women and children. By twinning a toilet, Here Self Storage is helping bring dignity, health, and hope to those who need it most.

Each twinned toilet supports community-led projects, including hygiene training and sustainable water solutions, ensuring that the benefits of improved sanitation extend far beyond the toilet’s construction. Through these projects, Toilet Twinning enables community members to become self-sufficient in sanitation and hygiene practices, leading to long-term health and wellbeing improvements. To learn more about their impactful work, visit Toilet Twinning’s website.

Here Self Storage’s Commitment to Supporting Others

At Here Self Storage, we’re dedicated to making a positive difference in the communities we serve. By supporting meaningful initiatives like Toilet Twinning, we continue our commitment to helping those in need through various charity partnerships. This partnership is one of many ways we’re striving to give back, supporting both our local areas and broader global causes. Our commitment to charity and community is at the heart of our values, and we’re proud to be working alongside organisations that create real, lasting impact.

Stay tuned for further updates on our charity efforts and partnerships as we continue to grow, support, and uplift communities in every way we can.

Here Self Storage has officially arrived in Loughborough, and what better way to mark the occasion than with two fantastic launch events that brought together the local community and industry professionals alike? Our new flagship store was the venue for two memorable events in August, where we introduced ourselves to the people of Loughborough, celebrated with the business community, and showcased the state-of-the-art facilities we now offer.

Public Launch Open Day on August 21^st

On August 21st, we hosted a Store Open Day that welcomed residents and families from Loughborough and the surrounding area to explore our new facility. It was a fantastic day filled with great vibes, delicious food, and plenty of coffee! We partnered with local businesses Alpine Pizza Co., who served up complimentary pizza to attendees, and There Goes Coffee kept everyone refreshed with a variety of free hot drinks.

Our store team were on hand to give guided tours, answer questions, and provide information about how Here Self Storage can meet the needs of the local community. To top it off, we handed out Here welcome packs, filled with goodies and useful information about our services. The event was a great way to get to know our new neighbours, and the turnout exceeded all expectations. From families looking for extra storage space to local business owners interested in our flexible solutions, it was the perfect opportunity for us to introduce ourselves and share what we’re all about.

Corporate Industry Open Event on August 25^th

Just a few days later, on August 25th, we held our second launch event – the Corporate Industry Open Event, designed for local businesses, investors, and key industry figures. This was a more formal affair, but still brimming with excitement as we celebrated the official opening of our flagship store.

The event kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official start of Here Self Storage in Loughborough. Guests enjoyed a variety of refreshments and, of course, a delicious custom-made Here cake. The event also featured speeches from our investors and founders, who spoke about the vision and future growth of Here Self Storage, highlighting the importance of Loughborough as a key location in our expansion plans.

In addition to the speeches and networking, attendees were given guided tours of the facility, showcasing our modern storage solutions and cutting-edge security features fitted by DSOC and Janus International. The event was an excellent opportunity for business professionals to see first-hand how we’re setting a new standard in self-storage, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

A Successful Start in Loughborough

Both launch events were well attended and a wonderful way for Here Self Storage to connect with the Loughborough community. Whether it was sharing a slice of pizza with local families or talking business strategy with industry leaders, these events truly reflected our commitment to being more than just a storage provider – we’re here to be part of the local community.

We’re thrilled with the reception we’ve received so far and look forward to serving Loughborough with the best storage solutions around. If you haven’t yet visited our flagship store, we invite you to come down, meet our friendly team, and discover what makes Here Self Storage the perfect choice for your personal and business storage needs.

Thank you, Loughborough – we’re excited to be here!

The self-storage industry in the UK is growing, with an increase of 8.1% over the last year according to industry reports. Homeowners, businesses and entrepreneurs are all finding self-storage a useful option when they need more space. It’s flexible, secure, safe and dry, and offers short and long-term storage. But is it cost effective?

Saving costs on office space

The average cost of renting office space across the country in 2024 is £35 a square foot. When you’re based in a city centre, you could be paying a premium. Birmingham office space is estimated at £300 per person per month, while even an economical office averages £455 per desk in London. For micro businesses and SME’s where every penny counts, smaller office space is also much harder to find.

Even as businesses face rising costs, there are ways to save on your space. It’s all a matter of reassessing how you use it. Prioritising your needs – and looking for alternative options to make the most of every corner of your current office.

If your biggest need is room for people – with desks, staff breakout and meeting rooms your priority, you don’t want to lose space to storage. Corners, cupboards and rooms taken up with old furniture, marketing materials and filing is taking up space that is costing your business money.

Saving costs on home living

As the cost-of-living features as an ongoing topic of conversation, the housing market seems to be heading upwards. House prices have increased by 1.4% so far in 2024, according to Zoopla. It might be good if you are selling, but less so for anyone considering upsizing for more space, especially once you add on the additional costs of moving, such as estate agent fees, conveyancing and the cost of moving.

Rental prices are going up as well, by 8.7% in the last 12 months. When your monthly rent averages £1,300 in England, moving to a larger property with higher rates is going to be a big commitment.

Self-storage as a cost-saving alternative to gain more space

While we’re all focused on saving on expenses, the idea of adding the cost of a self-storage unit may not seem to be the best option. But when you consider the potential there are actually huge benefits.

Self-storage contracts are flexible, so you can choose a short-term option. For homebuyers, this gives you time to allow the economy to settle down, or to save up for your house move, while solving your immediate space dilemma.

What do you need more space for? If you have a young family, a lot of room is likely taken up with toys, pushchairs and clothes, however the amount of equipment and size of toys children have is inversely proportional to the size of the child. As they get bigger, their gadgets get smaller, and you’ll need less storage space.

If you’re living in a flat in the city and need somewhere to store your sports gear and camping equipment, a storage locker will be more cost-effective than a larger flat, and you can have access to your items whenever you need it.

Growing a business in storage

Businesses also often need short term space – for seasonal goods or to allow for a temporary staff increase, perhaps for project work. That means you can move the filing out of your storage room and create a new office or temporary meeting room with ease.

Small businesses that need a secure storage option for stock or tools will find a storage option a better business decision than taking on premises, especially if they don’t plan on being open to the public. Business premises incur rates, utilities and insurance on top of the rent, and you are responsible for the upkeep of the security and meeting H&S and fire regulations. With storage units, it’s all taken care of.

If you’re still not sure that a storage unit is the cost-effective space you need, why not give us a call. Once we understand what you primarily need space for, we can help you calculate the size of unit you’ll need and give you an idea of costs. At Here Self Storage, we’re confident you’ll like your options.

We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Here Self Storage on Saturday, August 31st! Located right in the heart of the Loughborough community, our new facility is set to redefine the way you think about storage. Whether you’re looking to store personal items, business inventory, or anything in between, Here offers a fresh, straightforward approach to self storage that’s both convenient and eco-friendly.

Revolutionising Self Storage

At Here Self Storage, we believe that storing your belongings should be as simple and stress-free as possible. That’s why we’ve designed our facility with you in mind, offering:

• Easy Access: Our user-friendly online platform allows you to reserve and manage your storage space from the comfort of your home. With 24/7 access, you can retrieve or store items whenever it suits you best.
• Local Convenience: No more long drives to the outskirts of town! Here is conveniently located in the town centre at Regent Place Retail Park, Loughborough, LE11 5PL, making it easier for you to access your stored items without hassle.
• Flexible Options: Whether you need a small locker or a larger unit, we have a range of sizes to fit your needs. Our flexible rental terms mean you can store your belongings for as long as you need—without being locked into lengthy contracts.

Commitment to the Community

We’re not just another storage facility—we’re a part of this community. At Here, we’re committed to supporting local initiatives and fostering a sense of connection. From sponsoring community events to partnering with local businesses, we aim to give back and make a positive impact where we can.

On opening day, we’d love to welcome you to store. We will also be hosting a launch day event on Saturday 21stSeptember in which we invite everyone to come down, take a tour of our facility, and enjoy some local food and entertainment. It’s our way of saying thank you for welcoming us into the neighbourhood.

Dedicated to Sustainability

We’re also deeply committed to protecting our planet. At Here Self Storage, we’ve implemented a number of eco-friendly practices to ensure our operations are as sustainable as possible:

• Energy Efficiency: Our facility is equipped with energy-efficient lighting and temperature control systems to minimize our carbon footprint.
• Plant a Tree Initiative: For every customer who stores with us, we are committed to planting one tree. You can find out more on the TreeApp.
• Waste Reduction: We promote recycling and waste reduction throughout our facility. This makes it easy for our customers to do their part for the environment.

Join Us on August 31st!

We can’t wait to open our doors and begin serving the community with a new standard of self storage. Whether you’re decluttering, moving, or just need some extra space, Here has the perfect solution for you.

Visit our store or get in touch with our team to learn more about our services. We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, August 31st, as we start this exciting new chapter together!

As the warm days of summer begin to fade, it’s time to start thinking about how to best store your summer items until next year. Whether it’s your beloved garden furniture, BBQ equipment, holiday gear, or sporting goods, proper storage is essential to keep everything in top condition. At Here Self Storage, we want to ensure that your summer items are well taken care of, so they’re ready to use as soon as the sun starts shining again.

Storing Garden Furniture and BBQs

Your garden furniture and BBQ are summer staples, but they need protection from the elements during the colder months. Here’s how to store them safely:

• Clean Thoroughly: Before storing, make sure to clean your garden furniture and BBQ thoroughly. Remove any dirt, grime, or food residue to prevent rust, mould, and unpleasant odours. Be aware that any flammable components such as coal or gas canisters cannot be stored in a storage unit. If you are storing these at home, ensure they are stored correctly to prevent any risks.
• Disassemble If Possible: Disassembling your BBQ and furniture can save space and reduce the risk of damage. Store small parts like screws and bolts in labelled bags, so you don’t lose them.
• Cover and Protect: Use breathable covers to protect your items from dust and moisture. This is especially important for BBQs, which can rust if exposed to moisture for long periods. Garden chairs made with fabric, or beach deck chairs, will be prone to going mouldy over the winter periods if not stored correctly. Ensure they are covered with waterproof material if storing outside, or alternatively you can store them indoors in dry, clean storage units.
• Store Upright and Securely: Store large furniture items upright to maximize space and ensure they are securely positioned to avoid accidental damage.

Storing Holiday Items

After a summer full of adventures, it’s easy to overlook the need to properly store your holiday gear. From camping equipment to beach toys, here’s how to keep everything in top condition:

• Clean and Dry Everything: Always clean and dry your holiday items before storing them. Moisture can cause mould and mildew, especially in tents and sleeping bags.
• Pack in Clear Containers: Store smaller items like snorkels, flippers, and beach toys in clear, labelled containers. This way, you’ll easily find them when it’s time for your next trip. Clear plastic boxes make stacking easier too, ensuring a more organised storage space.
• Utilise Vertical Space: Use shelving units to maximise vertical space in your storage unit. Stack lightweight items on top, and keep heavier gear on the bottom.

Storing Summer Sporting Equipment

The summer of 2024 has been a “summer of sport”, with thrilling events like the Euros, Olympics, Tour de France, and Wimbledon. If you’ve been inspired to pick up some sports gear, proper storage will ensure it stays in great shape for next season:

• Clean Your Gear: Whether it’s your football boots, tennis racket, or cycling equipment, clean everything before storing it. Dirt and sweat can cause damage over time.
• Store in Protective Cases: For items like tennis rackets or golf clubs, store them in their protective cases to prevent scratches and other damage.
• Hang or Shelve: Hang items like bicycles or store them on sturdy shelving. This not only protects your gear but also maximizes space in your storage unit. It is important to make note of any specific storage instructions your equipment may come with, and adhere to those where possible.
• Easy Access: Despite the weather getting cooler, you may still want to access some of your equipment during the Autumn/Winter months. It is important to clearly organise your storage space so that items you may need access to are at the front and within easy reach. Storing at a self storage facility doesn’t mean your items are locked away for good, at Here Self Storage you can access your unit anytime you want, meaning your sports equipment is never far away.

Storing Summer Clothes

As the cooler weather sets in, it’s time to pack away those summer clothes and make space for your bulkier winter wardrobe. Proper storage will keep them fresh and ready for next year:

• Wash and Dry: Always wash and thoroughly dry your clothes before storing them. This prevents odours and mildew from developing.
• Use Vacuum-Sealed Bags: For bulky items like beach towels and swimwear, vacuum-sealed bags are a great way to save space and keep your clothes protected from moisture.
• Store in Plastic Containers: Avoid cardboard boxes, which can attract pests. Instead, opt for plastic containers with tight-fitting lids to keep your clothes safe.
• Label Clearly: Clearly label your containers so you know exactly where everything is when you’re ready to switch out your wardrobe next season.

Choosing the Right Storage Unit

At Here Self Storage, we offer a range of storage units that cater to your specific needs:

• Dry, spacious units: We have a wide range of units perfect for any item, and our facility is dry and pest free, making it a great alternative for protecting your goods than the garden shed or garage!
• Easy Access: All our units are fitted with smartphone access, making it easy to retrieve your items whenever you need them.
• Security: Our facilities are equipped with top-notch security features and 24/7 CCTV monitoring, ensuring that your belongings are safe and secure.

Storing your summer items properly not only prolongs their lifespan but also makes the transition into the next season seamless. At Here Self Storage, we’re committed to providing you with the best storage solutions for all your summer essentials. Whatever you’re storing, following these tips will help keep everything in pristine condition until the warm weather returns.

Ready to store your summer items? Contact Here Self Storage today and find the perfect storage unit for your needs!