The Awards are open to all members of the Container Self Storage and Traders Association and recognise innovation across container self-storage, container design, site operations, security, access systems, management systems, marketing and charity initiatives.
Entries should be submitted by midday on Monday 15 June, after which they will be judged by an independent panel. The Awards will be presented at the CSTA meeting on Tuesday 23 June.
The award categories are:
Most Innovative Marketing Campaign
This category recognises a creative, effective and well-executed marketing campaign that has helped promote a container self-storage business, site, service or product. Judges will be looking for evidence of originality, clear messaging, strong use of channels such as digital, social media, local advertising, PR or customer engagement, and measurable results such as enquiries, bookings, brand awareness or customer retention.
Best Technical Innovation – Self-Storage Site
This award is for a technical improvement introduced at a self-storage site that has enhanced operations, efficiency, customer experience, safety, sustainability or commercial performance. Entries may include new site layouts, operational systems, lighting, energy-saving measures, customer facilities, maintenance solutions or other technical improvements that make the site work better.
Best Technical Innovation – Container Design
This category recognises innovation in the design, adaptation or enhancement of containers used for self-storage or trading purposes. Judges will be looking for practical improvements in areas such as durability, ease of use, ventilation, insulation, condensation control, internal fittings, accessibility, sustainability, transportability or customer convenience.
Best Security Innovation – Site or Container Design
This award recognises a new or improved security innovation that enhances the protection of a self-storage site, individual containers, or both. Entries may include CCTV systems, lighting, fencing, monitoring, alarms, access controls, staff procedures, deterrents, integrated security solutions, improved locking systems, lock boxes, tamper-resistant features, container door enhancements, tracking devices or internal security measures. Judges will be looking for evidence that the innovation improves security, reduces risk, helps protect stored goods and gives customers greater confidence.
Charity Innovation
This award recognises an initiative that uses innovation to support a charity, community cause or social purpose. Entries may include fundraising campaigns, donated storage, community partnerships, creative use of containers for charitable purposes, staff volunteering initiatives or other activities that demonstrate positive social impact.
Best Innovation – Site Access System
This category recognises improvements in how customers, staff or suppliers access a self-storage site. Judges will be looking for systems that improve convenience, security, efficiency or customer service. Examples may include automated gates, keypad or app-based access, ANPR, smart locks, out-of-hours access solutions, visitor management or integrated access controls.
Best Innovation – Site Management System
This award is for innovations that improve how a self-storage site is managed. Entries may include booking systems, customer management software, payment systems, stock control, remote monitoring, reporting tools, CRM platforms, automation, integration of different systems or other solutions that help operators run their sites more effectively.
To enter, please send your submission by email, including a Word document and any relevant photos, to:
Patrick Hicks – patrick@containa.org
Please ensure your entry is received before Monday 15 June.