Storage Takes Advantage of the Snow

The current bad weather has brought about travel chaos in the UK with the east coast being particularly affected.  Temperatures have plummeted and snow has caused untold mayhem for travel arrangements to thousands; it has even closed several major airports adding to the misery.  Along with the holiday makers and business travellers, Retailers are looking anxiously at weather forecasts wondering if their deliveries are actually going to arrive; this sold-snap has the potential to cause havoc with Christmas sales.  An already struggling high street is in desperate need of a boost and the festive season is one they are relying on to provide the up-turn in sales so desperately needed.



On the flip side, some industries are taking full advantage of the snow; some even reply on its presence for economic survival, with the most obvious being ski centres.  Aviemore, Scotland’s famous ski resort has suffered nearly a decade of poor visitor numbers due to the lack of snow.  Last year’s return of the “white gold” saw visitor numbers increase from their 5 year annual average of 55,000 to over 140,000.  The early onset of winter gives the Scottish Ski industry the potential of a second year of high visitor numbers. The resorts all now have a good base of snow which they hope will provide a firm foundation for the 2010/11 ski season.

Although skiers are taking advantage of the weather conditions, the less adventurous individuals are adhering to the advice being given by Police forces and other agencies, and only make journeys if absolutely necessary.  This leaves many people stuck indoors with the perfect opportunity to complete all the odd jobs around the house that have been put off for many months, if not years,  as well as sort through their belongings and have a good clear out.  This spate of “getting organised” has seen self storage operators experience a busy spell with rooms being booked for the storage of items people just can’t bear to part with, or want stored until warmer weather surfaces.

The Self Storage industry has grown over the last 15 years to a point where the vast majority of individuals are aware of the concept and the benefits it provides.  By clearing out the attic, spare room, and garage, more space is reclaimed to be used for its initial intended purpose.  However much to the “stuff” stored around the house may either be useful at a different time of year or, has a value that requires it to be stored in a dry, secure environment.  Once the attic or garage has been cleared, it is necessary to find a home for those precious belongings.  Self Storage provides the natural solution and an increased number of people have used the cold snap to find out what space is available. 

Historically, the busiest period for any Storage operator has been in the spring, when everyone is engaged in the “spring clean” however the onset of the cold spell has given the storage industry a welcome Christmas boost.