The Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Washington, D.C., wrapped  up Thursday after four days of amazing seminars, a lively self-storage Q&A, a packed cocktail reception and two days of exhibit hall action. Nearly 1,000 registered participants from around the globe gathered at the beautiful Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center.

Attendees came from all facets of the industry—owners, investors, managers, builders, brokers and more. The expo also drew people from a number of countries, including China, Australia, South Africa and even Russia.

The Gaylord—a true destination hot spot located right on the Potomac River—was a wonderful backdrop for the show, which focused on marketing, new development, self-storage management and more.

In the exhibit hall, there was much interest in self-storage management and security software, new development and new products. I spoke with dozens of people who were either looking to get into the self-storage industry, or who had recently purchased an existing facility. One woman who had recently taken over her parents' self-storage facility was excited to learn more about the industry.

Another hot topic was marketing. The marketing seminars had standing-room only, and it was the theme of the opening session. Education attendees also clamored for more information about online marketing.

There was also buzz on the tradeshow floor about the next expo, March 1-3, at the Paris Hotel & Resort in Las Vegas. In the coming weeks, the ISS team will bring you the entire agenda, including add-on workshops, new seminars and more. Check the expo website regularly for updates.