StoreLocal Corp., a co-op of private self-storage operators in Canada and the United States, has released a series of self-storage videos designed to help customers choose the correct unit size for their needs as well as educate them on insurance options and the benefits of renting online. The video series was released through the company’s online marketplace, StorageFront.com, in partnership with Janus International Group LLC, a manufacturer of self-storage roll-up doors and building components. Designed by production company CastFam Inc., the video series includes “white-label” versions, which can be customized by co-op members and used on their websites, according to a press release.

Janus also produced a series of installation videos and product images the company intends to use to educate self-storage operators in emerging markets. "Janus International was pleased to be asked to partner with StoreLocal for their self-storage size guide video project. It provided StoreLocal the opportunity to use our products to shoot their videos while allowing us to showcase our door and hallway systems, our new SecurGuard electronic lock, and ADA [Americans With Disabilities Act] solutions,” said Terry Bagley, vice president of business development for Janus. “We are using the video and still shots obtained from the video shoot to upgrade our marketing materials, develop new ones, and enhance the content we are delivering on our website.”

Storage operators who have used video to help customers select their unit have experienced a 40 percent reduction in the number of online renters who changed their unit sizes after arriving at a storage facility, StoreLocal officials said in the release.

“This partnership is a perfect example of collaboration,” said Lance Watkins, CEO of StoreLocal. “Janus and StoreLocal needed marketing tools, and together were able to produce a higher quality result at minimal cost.”

Headquartered in Temple, Ga., Janus has eight U.S. locations as well as manufacturing facilities in Europe and Mexico. A plant in Brazil is expected to open later this year. The company is owned by Saw Mill Capital Partners LP, a New York-based private equity investment fund managed by Saw Mill Capital LLC.

StoreLocal leverages the combined strength of its membership for services such as customer acquisition, financing, marketing and technology. The co-op acquired online self-storage directories StorageFront.com and SelfStorageHounds.com in January.

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