Self-Storage Marketplace Explorage Grabs Double Win at Startup Awards 2023

U.K. startup Explorage Ltd., an online self-storage marketplace for consumers, recently won the “Rising Star Award” at the 2023 StartUp Awards in Wales as well as “Best Use of Social Media Promoting Business and Industry” from the Container Self Storage and Traders Association (CTSA), a U.K.-based professional organization that represents the interests of container self-storage operators and suppliers. The company was formally recognized during ceremonies held last month, according to a press release.

Launched last year, Explorage allows consumers to comparison shop self-storage rates and services as well as reserve units online. Users are able to isolate their searches to specific regions of the U.K. and filter search results by options such as 24-hour access, security features, power in units and other amenities, according to the company website.

Self-storage operators receive free listings but have the option to purchase one of three upgrade packages. Add-ons include features like customer reviews, property videos, automated payments and virtual tours as well as facility-management services and social media promotion, according to the website.

“This Rising Star award marks an extraordinary milestone for Explorage.com, especially considering our journey began just 8 months ago,” said founder Anna Roberts. “It is a testament to the incredible potential and unwavering dedication of our team. We are determined to redefine the world of self-storage, and this award is just the beginning.”

The StartUp Awards are a collaboration between the founders of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, an 11-year-old recognition platform that receives more than 5,000 applications annually, and the Wales StartUp Awards. Similar awards are held in nine other regions across the U.K.

Explorage was one of three companies to receive the Rising Star Award from a pool of 18 nominees. It shared the award with Beman Candles, a company that makes aromatherapy products for men, and Musicality, an online platform that connects students with music teachers.

In addition to the social media award, the CTSA also recognized Explorage in the “Technology Innovation Developments to Aid Business” category, and network assistant Jaqui Jeffries was recognized in the “Outstanding Staff Member” category.

Roberts developed the business through the M-SParc Level-Up Accelerator program, a Wales-based business and innovation incubator.