Access Self Storage, which owns and manages 22 facilities on the East Coast, received the “NJ Family Business of the Year Award” from the Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU). The program recognizes significant contributions to the economy and community made by family businesses in New Jersey. The companies honored best exemplify a “multi-generational impact on the community, perseverance, commitment to family and business success,” according to the source.

“Family businesses form the foundation of the New Jersey economy. It is, therefore, essential that we support these businesses and celebrate their success,” said Dale Caldwell, executive director of the Rothman Institute.

The finalists were chosen by a panel of judges comprised of past winners, members of the business community and FDU. They were honored at a luncheon on Oct. 23 at Crystal Plaza in Livingston, N.J., where Access was announced as the winner.

In addition to receiving a plaque, Access will be featured in “New Jersey Business” magazine, a publication of the New Jersey Business & Industry Association. Additional sponsors of the award include Coughlin Duffy LLP, Crystal Plaza and Sobel & Co. LLC.

Foy Cooley, CEO and owner of Access, accepted the award. “Access has always been an extension of my family, and it’s because of this family I am standing here today,” she said during her acceptance speech.

Access was founded more than 40 years ago by Cooley and her husband, Ken Cooley, who passed earlier this year. The couple came upon the idea to open a storage facility when they noticed rows of single-story buildings with exterior doors while driving to North Carolina for a birthday celebration. When Foy saw the “Storage for rent” sign, she asked her husband if “something like this could work up North?” The couple opened their first facility in Eatontown, N.J., in 1977. Foy’s son, Graham Cooley, is also a part of the family business, serving as vice president of development.

Access owns and manages facilities in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. It opened a new location in Lopatcong, N.J., last year, and plans to grow its portfolio to 30 locations by 2020.

Source:
New Jersey Business, NJ Family Business of the Year Awards 2019 – Accepting Nominations