Storage solutions in France are experiencing significant growth, driven by factors like relocations and divorces. Facilities offer various unit sizes, with many opting for secure, accessible spaces. Individuals also rent out personal spaces, providing affordable alternatives. Notable projects include a renovated industrial site in Île-de-France and an upcoming center beneath the Champs-Élysées, catering to both personal and professional storage needs with modern management systems.
The Rise of Storage Solutions in France
For the past year, Eric has been making regular trips to a storage facility located 35 kilometers from his home. “I bring certain items back and pick up others based on what I need,” he shares. This building holds significant importance for him, as it serves as a storage unit for both his belongings and those of his children who have relocated abroad.
To meet this need, he opted for a membership at a secure center that is accessible around the clock and equipped with surveillance cameras. The cost of maintaining a seven-square-meter unit is 100 euros per month. “I trust that my belongings are safe and well-maintained there. While 100 euros a month adds up to 1200 euros a year, the sentimental value of what’s inside makes it worthwhile,” Eric emphasizes.
Increasing Demand for Storage Space
The storage facility offers units ranging from 1.5 to 20 square meters. To illustrate the value of their offerings, the site manager provides a demonstration: “This is a 5 m² unit, which can hold about 15 m³ of items. It’s sufficient to store the contents of a 50 m² home. For instance, we can place the sofa and pull-out bed upright to maximize space,” explains Olivier Albert, owner of a franchised Homebox location. He currently operates four centers and has plans for expansion.
The demand for storage solutions is on the rise. Factors such as divorces, frequent relocations, and emigration are driving the need for extra space. “As real estate becomes more competitive, we find fewer options for storage in attics or basements, leading to an increased reliance on external storage facilities,” notes the expert. Currently, France boasts over 1300 storage centers.
Not only professionals are taking advantage of this trend; individuals are also renting out spare space in their homes. For example, a resident from Vienne has been renting out his cellar for seven years at three euros per square meter, amounting to 200 euros per month. This isolated space is equipped with surveillance and offers a more affordable alternative compared to commercial storage options, making it a popular choice.
In Île-de-France, a major storage project is underway, transforming an old industrial site into a 10,000 m² facility. “This building was previously used by Dassault for assembling Falcon aircraft, and we have completely renovated it,” shares Alexis De L’Epine, co-founder of Lockall. Here, traditional keys and locks have been replaced with app-based management for the 850 storage units.
This facility caters to both individuals and professionals in need of flexible storage solutions, including craftsmen and retailers who might require a small workshop along with their storage. Moreover, there’s an exciting new project on the horizon: a storage center scheduled to open by 2026 beneath the iconic Champs-Élysées. This 10,000 m² facility will span six levels, providing dedicated storage space for local businesses.