CSTA 2026 Birmingham
Conference Agenda Announced
Arrangements are in place and Registration is open for the CSTA Conference and Networking Meeting in Birmingham on 22 and 23 June
The Container Self Storage & Traders Association has announced details of its 2026 Conference & Networking Meeting, bringing together key players from across the container self-storage, trading, conversion and innovation sectors.
Taking place at the Hilton Metropole Birmingham on Tuesday 23 June 2026, the event will once again provide a focused platform for industry professionals to exchange ideas, explore emerging trends and strengthen business connections.
The programme will be complemented by an evening networking reception on Monday 22 June, offering delegates an informal setting to reconnect and build new relationships ahead of the main conference.
Timely industry gathering
As the container self-storage sector continues to evolve alongside wider changes in global logistics and supply chains, the 2026 meeting comes at a crucial time.
Operators, traders and suppliers are facing shifting customer expectations, technological disruption and increasing pressure to enhance efficiency, sustainability and security.
The conference agenda has been carefully designed to address these challenges, combining expert presentations with interactive discussion, practical workshops and peer-to-peer engagement.
Conference highlights
The day begins with registration and welcome refreshments, followed by a strong opening session examining the changing dynamics of the container shipping industry.
- Shipping Trends and Market Outlook
John Fossey, Head of Container Equipment & Leasing Research at Drewry Maritime Research
John Fossey will provide an overview of recent developments in container shipping. His session will explore market trends, offer a forecast for the year ahead, and assess how ongoing supply chain challenges are influencing container availability and pricing. - The Future of Container Self-Storage
Led by Sarah Manning of Secure Stores Nationwide
An interactive session will invite delegates to share insights and experiences on the evolving self-storage landscape.Discussion topics will include changing customer expectations, branding and marketing strategies, environmental initiatives, insulation solutions, site security, and practical considerations such as lifts, toppers and paint durability. - Rethinking Container Trading Systems
Tom Williams of Williams Consulting & Logistics
In a sector increasingly driven by data and operational efficiency, will explore whether container trading businesses are being constrained by their own systems.The session will address common challenges such as system integration, reporting limitations and commercial visibility, while also considering how emerging technologies — including AI — could help streamline operations and decision-making. - Security: Protection and Prevention
Ant Hebblethwaite from DSOC
Security remains a top priority for container site operators. Ant will present the latest trends in site break-ins, alongside practical strategies for prevention and protection.
Interactive Workshop: “The Occupancy Race”
Rahul Vekaria, Managing Director of Amax Marketing
A new addition to the 2026 programme is a highly practical, discussion-led workshop focused on one of the most important challenges facing operators — how to drive occupancy growth.
Titled “The Occupancy Race: How To Grow From 40% To 85% Occupancy In 12 Months”, this interactive workshop will challenge attendees to think like the management team of a storage business looking to grow from 40% to 85% occupancy within 12 months.
Working in groups, attendees will discuss where they would invest their time and budget across areas such as websites, SEO, Google reviews, paid advertising, local partnerships, follow-up and customer experience.
The session is designed to be practical, collaborative and discussion-led, giving operators useful ideas they can take away and apply to their own business. There are no right or wrong answers, just a chance to share ideas, challenge assumptions and explore what really drives enquiries and occupancy.
The session will be led by Rahul Vekaria, Managing Director of Amax Marketing, who brings extensive experience in digital marketing and customer acquisition within the self-storage sector.
- Sharing expertise: The conference will conclude with round-table sessions hosted by CSTA members, encouraging open discussion and knowledge sharing in a more informal format.These sessions are a hallmark of the event, often generating practical insights and new collaborations across the sector.
Networking Opportunities
In addition to the formal agenda, the event places strong emphasis on networking. The cocktail reception and buffet dinner on Monday evening will provide an ideal environment for delegates to connect, while refreshment breaks and lunch throughout the conference ensure ample opportunity for continued discussion.
Looking Ahead
With its blend of expert insight, practical workshops, industry debate and valuable networking, the CSTA 2026 Conference & Networking Meeting is set to be a key date in the container self-storage calendar.
As the industry navigates a period of change and opportunity, the Birmingham event will offer attendees the knowledge, contacts and perspectives needed to stay competitive in an increasingly dynamic and customer-driven market.
Practical Information
Event Schedule
Monday 22 June 2026 – Welcome Networking Reception
Tuesday 23 June 2026 – Full-Day Conference and Networking Sessions
Registration
The Registration feee is £255 (+VAT) for CSTA Members or £355 (+VAT) for non-Members.
To register, click on this link: CSTA 2026 MEETING REGISTRATION
CSTA Members: To benefit from the Discounted Rate – use the following code when registering: memberdiscount
Sponsorship Opportunities
Companies wishing to ensure a high profile – before and during the event – are invited to become an Event Sponsor.Further information from: patrick@containa.org
Event Hotel – Hilton Birmingham Metropole
The Hilton is offering CSTA attendees 10% off the current room rates. We strongly recommend booking early, as rates are likely to increase. Book Your Room at the Hilton Here