The Irish self storage industry just got its first deep-dive report. Published by the Irish Self Storage Association (ISSA) in partnership with FEDESSA, this study sheds light on everything from how many people know what self storage even is, to what’s driving demand across the country.

And for an industry that’s quietly matured over the past few years, this level of clarity is long overdue.

So, what did we learn?

Smart Pricing

Ireland’s self storage occupancy now averages 85%, climbing back from a dip in 2023. That’s well above the European average. Additionally, rental returns per square metre dipped by 5%, yet profitability has gone up. Operators are focusing on optimising yield rather than just filling units. It’s not about 100% occupancy anymore, it’s about smart pricing and strong returns.

Untapped Potential

Despite Ireland outperforming other European countries in awareness levels, 20% of people have still never heard of self storage. This is a clear signal that there’s room for growth just by educating the public. High-visibility sites and billboard campaigns are helping, but we’re not there yet.

Who’s Using Storage, and Why?

  • 83% of customers are over 40
  • 39% are repeat customers
  • Life events like bereavement or moving house

Interestingly, people often plan to use storage for a short stint, but stay much longer, especially those moving house. And even if some customers say they don’t see it as great value, they still stay!

Business is Booming

Businesses make up 24% of customers but occupy 30% of the space. From retailers and professional services to not-for-profits, more companies are using self storage as an alternative to warehousing. Some even operate fully from a unit. That flexibility is gold for SMEs looking to scale without committing to long leases.

Tech and Sustainability is Catching Up

While remote-managed sites are still less common than in mainland Europe, there’s a clear appetite for innovation. 25% of customers want app-based access. And from solar panels to sustainable drainage systems, newer sites are setting a greener standard.

Conclusion

The Irish Self Storage Industry Report 2025 confirms what many operators already felt: the market is strong, diverse and evolving fast. For operators, developers and investors, there’s never been a better time to invest.

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