As publisher of Modern Storage Media, I’ve had the privilege of attending more self-storage conferences and trade shows than I could possibly count. Some have been outstanding. Others…not so much. But over the years, one thing became abundantly clear. No matter where I went, I kept hearing the same comments.
“I hate having to choose between educational sessions and spending time on the trade show floor.”
“There just isn’t enough time to really network.”
“I want education I can actually use when I get home.”
When we began planning THE Show, we didn’t start by asking who our keynote speakers should be or what venue we should use. Instead, we asked ourselves one simple question:
What are the biggest complaints people have about today’s trade shows?
Then we challenged ourselves to address every one of them.
That philosophy became the foundation for everything we’ve built.
One of the first things we changed was eliminating the conflict between education and the exhibit hall. We intentionally designed the schedule so attendees don’t have to choose between learning from industry experts and spending valuable time with exhibitors. You should be able to do both.
We also focused on creating meaningful networking opportunities and practical education that attendees can put to work the moment they return home.
Most importantly, we wanted people to leave Atlanta feeling they had made a worthwhile investment—not just of money, but of their time. That’s a high standard, but it’s the one we held ourselves to every step of the way.
Another thing that makes this year’s event especially significant is that THE Show is the only national self-storage trade show being held east of the Mississippi in 2026. If you’re planning to attend just one national event this year, Atlanta is where the industry will come together.
One thing I’ve always believed is that a great conference shouldn’t just make you a better storage operator—it should make you a better businessperson. That’s why we looked beyond our own industry when selecting keynote speakers.
On Wednesday at 9:00 a.m., we’re honored to welcome Congressman Jefferson Shreve of Indiana and Congressman Troy Downing of Montana. Both are successful self-storage operators who also happen to serve in Congress. Their unique perspective from both the boardroom and Washington promises to be an engaging and insightful discussion.
Then, on Thursday at 9:00 a.m., less than 24 hours after the midterm elections, Scott Jennings, senior political commentator for CNN, will take the stage. Regardless of your political views, the election results will influence the business climate we all operate in. I believe Scott’s perspective on what those results mean for business and the economy will be one of the most timely presentations you’ll hear all year.
Of course, a great conference is about more than education.
We’ll kick things off with an unforgettable Opening Night Reception at the Georgia Aquarium, where attendees will network while enjoying a reception catered by legendary chef Wolfgang Puck. Then, on Thursday evening, we’ll celebrate our industry’s finest at the Red Carpet Awards Gala, where we’ll recognize the Manager of the Year and Facility of the Year winners live on stage.
For now, I simply wanted to share how it all began—with one simple question.
What would happen if we actually listened to what attendees wanted from a trade show?
This November in Atlanta, I think you’ll see the answer.
I look forward to welcoming you personally.
Contact:
Poppy Behrens
Publisher
Modern Storage Media
