In recent years, the agricultural landscape has changed dramatically. For many farmers, the challenges of maintaining a profitable farm have led to the exploration of alternative revenue streams. One popular option is farm diversification into self storage – repurposing old barns, sheds, or processing plants into high quality storage facilities. Kuboid, a leader in self storage fit-outs, has helped farmers across the UK tap into this lucrative market, supporting them from initial feasibility assessments to final project completions.
Consistent Revenue Stream
Self storage offers a steady, predictable income, even during economic downturns. With demand for storage space growing as people seek secure, affordable places to keep their belongings, self storage can become a stable revenue source. Unlike farming, where income fluctuates due to weather conditions or market prices, self storage provides a consistent cash flow year-round. This stability allows farmers to better plan their finances and reduces the pressures that come with seasonal farming incomes.
Every single square meter of this old potato processing plant has been maximised. Should you find yourself with an old, tired building, please contact Kuboid so we can give you the expertise to transfer that building into a new lease of life, a new purpose, and new profitability for you.”
Maximising Underused Assets
Farmers and rural land owners are in unique possession of a highly sought after commodity – space. Additionally, farms often have redundant or underused buildings, such as former cattle sheds, processing plants, or old barns. These spaces are perfect for conversion into self storage facilities, allowing farmers to make use of existing infrastructure without major new construction. For example, one farm repurposed an old cattle shed to build a fully operational self storage facility, turning a once-idle building into a thriving business that now generates a far higher return than farming alone.
Improved Work-Life Balance
Unlike farming, self storage does not require constant attention. With modern self storage facilities often featuring automated systems like keypad access, alarmed units, and lighting controls, managing these spaces can be relatively hands-off, and many operators now choose to be unmanned. This setup enables farmers to have more time for family and personal pursuits, creating a better work-life balance that might not have been achievable with traditional farming.
“I’ve been able to buy all three of my children a house. The financial security has put my family in good stead for the next two generations, which farming would not have done.”
Enhanced Property Value
Converting farm buildings into self storage units not only brings in immediate income but also raises the overall property value. A property that can offer self storage rental space can be a more valuable asset for future generations or for sale, should the farmer decide to transition out of agriculture completely. Increasingly, farmland is evaluated not only for agricultural potential but also for its revenue-generating possibilities, including storage and other commercial uses.
Meeting Community Needs
Self storage facilities in rural areas meet a local need, especially in communities where people may lack sufficient storage at home. By converting a portion of their land into storage, farmers can support their communities while adding an additional revenue stream. Many self storage facilities set up by farmers serve local business owners, tradespeople, and residents who need space to store equipment, inventory, or personal belongings.
“We haven’t even started marketing yet and people have already been in touch to reserve units.”
Is Self Storage Right for Your Farm?
If you’re a farmer considering diversification, self storage is worth exploring. Partnering with experts like Kuboid, who specialise in storage fit-outs, can help determine if your unused farm buildings have the potential for conversion. With careful planning, you could unlock a stable income stream, improve your property’s value, and enjoy a more balanced lifestyle – all while supporting your local community’s storage needs.
Interested in meeting with the team at Kuboid? We’re attending the upcoming Farm Business and Innovation Show at the Birmingham NEC. The Farm Business Innovation Show specialises in supporting farmers, landowners and rural businesses to make the most of their land through diversification. The immersive event will provide you with the inspiration and knowledge you need to generate a reliable income alongside your traditional farming operations. We hope to see you there!
Listen to real life examples from our agricultural customers who successfully diversified into self storage.
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