Embracing Changes in Tough Times

Two weeks ago, Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke predicted confidently that “we will see growth in the third quarter continuing and that growth will continue into 2010.” Indeed, The Wall Street Journal reports the pace of job losses in the U.S. continues to slow, but what does this mean for individual industries?

While sectors heavily rooted in intellectual capital (such as technology) have been showing signs of bouncing back, companies where operating costs are much higher could take longer to recover. This month, we highlight two forward-thinking companies who have benefited from embracing change.

Inside Self-Storage reports that industry veterans Dan Kasman and Michael Gyory of New York have gone green with their latest venture with the opening of Thornwood Self Storage Center. From the re-purposing of the former warehouse structure to its energy-saving features, the new facility aims to attract the ever-growing group of eco-minded consumers who are looking for green alternatives in all facets of their lives.

Advantage Storage of Texas continues to grow by catering specifically to upscale clients. As reported by Collin County Business Press, the company’s new multi-story Craig Ranch facility blends in with the architectural style of its surrounding homes and country clubs, complete with stucco and stone construction. Advantage also specializes in corporate customers, offering a shipment receiving service, flexible space, and month-to month leases.

While both examples above come from self-storage, niche markets are proving to work in tough times for all sorts of companies within the relocation industry and beyond. While not necessarily the answer for all businesses, at the very least we hope this article has you thinking about who your customers are, and what you can offer them to better suit their needs. Who knows, you may just stumble across a new business idea!

We want to hear your success stories. In what ways have you been creative to keep business thriving?

Greener Moving is Easy

Moving to a new home will inevitably have a significant impact on the environment. Cardboard boxes used for moving are often not recycled and corrugated cardboard boxes account for most of the paper waste in landfills. In addition, tape used for packing boxes is not recyclable and takes a very long time to decompose in landfills.

The following are tips on how to lessen your environmental impact while moving:

• Used materials: Save money and your impact on the planet by collecting used boxes from grocery stores, liquor stores, and other retailers. Wine and liquor boxes are particularly handy for fragile glass items as many of these boxes contain cell packs (cardboard dividers). Before moving, ask your local wine or liquor store when they will be receiving shipments so you can get plenty of boxes. Also, look to friends and family for their used boxes when moving.


• Reusable containers: Borrowing plastic containers from friends and family will reduce the number of cardboard boxes used. If you purchase plastic containers instead, make sure to save them for your next move or for your friends and family.


• Donating/selling unwanted items: Eliminate waste by donating or selling any unwanted items. Gently used clothing and household appliances may be donated at your local Goodwill, Salvation Army, or other charitable organization. Need a little extra money before your move? Garage sales can be a quick and easy way to sell your unwanted goods. If you only have a few items you want to sell, try selling them on websites such as Ebay and Craigslist.

Some moving companies are also trying to lessen their impact on the environment. If using movers, check for local "green" moving companies online. Of course, any move will not be a completely "green." However, if you follow the tips above and use common sense, you can significantly eliminate your impact on the environment.