Toy Storage Nation (TSN), a professional resource that educates people on the boat/RV-storage industry, has launched an awards program to recognize excellence in the design and management of boat/RV-storage facilities nationwide. The group is now accepting nominations for projects of all sizes, according to a press release.

Awards will be given for “Facility of the Month” and “Facility of the Year.” The deadline for the April prize is March 31. Nominations are accepted throughout the year at toystoragenation.com/awards. They may be submitted by all industry stakeholders including design and building contractors, lenders, real estate professionals, software and security vendors, management companies, and facility operators. There’s no fee to enter.

All submissions will be evaluated by a selection committee, including TSN staff and members of its advisory board. Consideration will be given to businesses that offer all forms of boat/RV storage, which may be in addition to traditional self-storage and other ancillary operations. Winners will be contacted by TSN and featured with a profile and photos on its website, the release stated.

“The ‘Toy Storage Nation RV and Boat Facility Awards’ are an extension of our mission to serve as the voice for the recreational-vehicle industry,” said director of sales Amy Bix. “By promoting class-A standards on facility design, safety and security features, we encourage operators to strengthen their strategies for improving the tenant experience, ultimately leading to higher profit margins and greater success.”

To achieve these standards, facilities must offer fully enclosed units or canopy carports, secure perimeter fencing, paved surfaces, and gate access with keypad entry, the release stated.

“Operators across the country are recognizing the benefits of offering higher standards of care for tenants’ prized possessions,” said Terry Anderson, chair of the TSN Advisory Board, which oversees the new program. “RV and boat sales have skyrocketed over the past few years, and owners want to know their expensive toys are going to be in safekeeping when stored.”

Founded in 2020, TSN provides boat/RV-storage developers, operators and investors resources and networking opportunities including the Toy Storage Nation Executive Workshop, held four times annually.

TSN will present a comprehensive Boat/RV-Storage Workshop as part of the upcoming Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Las Vegas, April 11-14, at Caesars Forum Conference Center. Designed for professionals who are interested in building, investing in or operating a vehicle-storage business, the full-day session will take place 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, April 14.