Reunited … and It Feels So Good! Connect With Like-Minded Self-Storage Professionals at the 2024 ISS World Expo

There’s no denying that many people live and work in isolation these days. With our mini-computers in hand and remote capabilities for just about everything, making in-person connections is becoming more challenging in our technology-driven world. But as humans, we need and sometimes crave interaction. Having meaningful contact with others is vital for our personal and professional growth. It’s how we adapt, learn and thrive.

In our industry, there’s no better place to fulfill this yearning than the Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Las Vegas, this year happening April 2-5. This all-encompassing conference and tradeshow is teeming with network opportunities to help you bond with like-minded individuals while immersing yourself in learning. Following, we highlight some of the ways you can engage with other storage professionals at this year’s event.

For the Love of Ladies

Sorry, fellas, this session is for the ladies only. The second annual Women In Storage Education (WISE) program on April 3 celebrates the females who are making strides in the industry. Our handpicked panel will share insight on a variety of topics and challenges, from climbing the career ladder to biases they’ve encountered to successes they’ve achieved. They’ll tell their inspiring stories and impart professional strategies that have helped them excel.

Attendees will enjoy two hours of presentations and conversations with the audience followed by a cocktail hour. As space is limited for this unique session, registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s a can’t-miss event for women seeking guidance from others who’ve paved the way.

Meet Me in the Exhibit Hall

The ISS show floor is a fantastic place to make industry connections. Whether you’re new to self-storage or a veteran, the bustling rows of booths are where you’ll learn about new products, visit with vendors and converse with other professionals.

Over the course of two days, April 3 and 4, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a range of products and services including automation and other technology, building components, management software, security equipment, finance packages, marketing services, retail merchandise, consulting services, and much more. Whether you’re a developer, investor, manager or owner, you’ll find an abundance of resources.

Partnering Up

Self-storage investing has been a hot ticket over the past few years, with more funds flowing into the sector. While some big-money spenders are making their entry, there’s still plenty of room for independent owners to gain a foothold. If you’re in the mood to buy, seeking an investment partner or ready to sell your property, the Buyers & Sellers Meeting on April 4 will provide a starting point. Gather with other buyers, sellers and industry brokers in this low-key gathering.

Let’s Talk

If you’re seeking an opportunity for more one-on-one discussions, Table Talks on April 3 is the place for you. Hosted by industry experts, these informal discussions focus on a variety of specific topic, from automation to development, marketing to sustainability, and much more. Each begins with a brief presentation by the table moderator, leaving several minutes for open dialogue and Q&A before a rotation is suggested.

Time for Deeper Discussion

While our 42 seminars are brimming with insight, there’s only so much you can pack into a 50-minute session. Overtime With the Experts, a show favorite, allows you to engage with speakers in an informal setting and ask all of your follow-up questions. Open April 3 and 4 during the concurrent education tracks, this dedicated space allows for meaningful conversations and an opportunity to get to know our presenters.

Sharing Is Caring

Ever have a burning question and would love to know what your fellow industry professionals think? The three Self-Storage Q&A Sessions on April 4 bring together people from all facets of the business to discuss … well … anything! Each forum is hosted by a pair of experts. They focus on investing and development, management and marketing, and technology and security. It’s your chance to ask for advice or share your knowledge with others.

Explore the World Together

The ISS World Expo is legendary for enticing self-storage professionals from around the globe. Our International Program on April 3 and 4 will delve into what’s happening in a variety of established and up-and-coming markets. Whether you’re thinking about investing or need guidance for your own business, these seminars will deepen your understanding. Make connections with representatives from more than a dozen countries!

Let’s Have a Drink

After a whirlwind day of education and exhibits, you’ll likely be ready for a cocktail or two. Join us for the popular Party on the Plaza on April 3, 7-8:30 p.m. Mingle with other attendees, nosh on some delectable hors d'oeuvres, and toast to continued success on the stunning Forum Plaza underneath the renowned High Roller observation wheel. It’s an opportunity to relax and enjoy lively conversation with other attendees and vendors.

Whatever your role in the self-storage industry, you’ll find the connections you crave at this year’s ISS World Expo. Take this opportunity to engage with other professionals and ignite your success this year. To learn more about the education program, networking events and exhibits, visit issworldexpo.com. Registration is now open!