A STORAGE unit has been hailed one of the best in Europe.

Storage World’s newest branch in Hale and Wilmslow has been shortlisted as Independent Facility of the Year for the Federation of European Self Storage Associations’ Fedessa European Awards.

These accolades are highly contested amongst organisations in the self-storage sector.

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The store was selected for its visual appeal, internal fit out quality, and construction and unique three-tier mezzanine.

The company’s creativity in engaging customers also contributed towards its nomination.

When the branch opened at the start of the first lockdown, innovative methods had to be developed to attract customers as trade dropped to less than five per cent of normal levels.

Marc Studholme, managing director at Storage World, said: “Being judged by industry experts and shortlisted as one of the European stand out stores was a huge boost.

"Upon opening, we were immediately confronted with the challenges of the pandemic. We couldn’t ever have imagined that within 18 months our store could be considered amongst the best in Europe.

“Demand for flexible space has been strong and the requirement to fit out more of the store with additional units was brought forward.

"We’ve seen a rise in domestic customers requiring storage for moving house, carrying out home renovations and to create more space in their home.

"Business customers are utilising space to store stock for their online retail operations, documents and excess equipment for trade.”

Storage World plans to open new premises next year and at least one new store in each of the following years.