Global real estate firm Savills has released research indicating that the Europe and United Kingdom self-storage markets will see greater deal flow in 2026. Operators are increasingly focused on scale, technology integration and data-driven growth strategies. The company expects investment activity to focus on urban locations and cities where supply is constrained and demand fundamentals are strongest, according to a press release.
The firm said self-storage business activity was slower than usual in the second half of 2025 because several major deals fell through. However, it expects those transactions to be revisited and for new opportunities to emerge. In locations with limited acquisition inventory, well-capitalized operators are instead choosing to build. Compound, Rafter Group and Storex Self Storage are among the companies building modern properties across key cities. Savills expects this trend to continue, as well as a focus on capitalized investment platforms that prioritize location, quality and operational efficiency, the release stated.
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“As market conditions stabilize and capital becomes more deployable, we expect a recovery in self-storage investment activity in 2026,” said Ollie Saunders, head of the self-storage division for Savills. “Platforms are more creative in how they scale, whether through using data to target development in underserved locations, management contracts or technology; and this flexibility will be key to unlocking growth across the U.K. and European markets.”
“There has been continued interest from a wide range of lenders in the self-storage sector, with increased allocations for both smaller-ticket deals and larger portfolio transactions alike,” said Adi Gokal, director at Savills Capital Advisors, the in-house investment bank for Savills. “Liquidity in the credit markets remains very strong, and we expect to see debt terms continue to tighten over the course of 2026, particularly for businesses who are achieving operational efficiencies and technology integration within their platforms.”
Founded in the U.K. in 1855, Savills provides asset management, brokerage financing and valuation services. It employs 40,000 people in more than 70 countries.
Source: Savills, Savills Predicts Self Storage Deal Flow Set for a Strong Rebound in 2026
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