Self-storage is no longer a strictly American product. Though the industry's roots burrow here in the States, the business has proliferated across the globe, taking hold on nearly all seven continents, in communities large and small, urban and rural. Ours may be a culture of acquisition and hoarding unlike any other, predicating a fundamental need for storage space, but self-storage has proved its usefulness in residential and commercial settings worldwide.

Foreign professionals regularly report that while their self-storage markets are well behind that of the United States in maturation and sophistication, they believe development in their areas to be following an American pattern. They express optimism regarding industry expansion and evolution. Like their U.S. counterparts, they seek insider advice, innovative strategies and practical solutions to problems. Many find their way to the U.S. for conferences and tradeshows, where they can see the latest industry products, services and technology first-hand, and gain insight from seasoned experts in the field.

The Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Las Vegas, the industry's largest education and networking event, is a natural choice for these knowledge-seekers; and this year, we expect to see more international participation than ever before. With an attendee base so rich in cultural diversity, the show will provide excellent opportunities for information-sharing and in-depth learning. Think of it as an industry exchange program whereby you can make intercontinental business connections and friends.

Raising Many Voices

The 2012 Vegas event, taking place March 14-16 at the Paris Hotel & Resort, will include a formal panel of international self-storage professionals. Areas to be represented include Australia, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, Japan, South Africa and others. Participants will discuss the overall state of development in their regions and share information about their local successes and challenges. Topics to be addressed include obstacles to construction, legal challenges, consumer climate, staffing issues and more. Attendees are encouraged to come prepared with questions and comments to help guide the dialogue. This event is scheduled for Wednesday, March 14, 3-4:30 p.m.

For Spanish Speakers

Spanish is becoming more widely recognized as a language in which to conduct business. Why? According to America.gov, the buyer power of U.S. Hispanics is growing faster than that of non-Hispanics. The economic fortunes of these 47 million U.S. residents are growing, and consumer businesses, including self-storage facilities, are taking notice.

The ISS Expo attracts Spanish speakers from many regions, not only from the southern states but Latin America and Spain. In Las Vegas, the expo will feature its first ever education seminars in Spanish, taught by representatives of the Latin America Self Storage Association. On March 15, Cristian Batres and Lucia Darnell will talk to attendees about self-storage construction, development and facility operation in Latin American countries.

Wherever you call home, the ISS Expo offers a precious business opportunity for you, whether its a seminar, workshop, peer-to-peer networking event, face time with experts, or just a chance to meet and learn from new and interesting colleagues. Get global with your self-storage knowledge; it just might be an international idea that makes the difference in your business in 2012.

For show details, visit www.insideselfstorageworldexpo.com.