The American Religion of Self-Storage Facilities

The article explores the rise of the self-storage industry in the US, describing it as a 'religion' that has become a ubiquitous part of American life. The author notes that there are over 48,000 self-storage facilities in the US, with over 2.5 billion square feet of storage space. The industry is expected to continue growing, with a projected value of $47 billion by 2025. The article highlights the unique characteristics of self-storage facilities, including their often kitschy designs and the way they offer a sense of security and control to customers. The author also notes that the self-storage industry has become a major player in local economies, with some facilities generating millions of dollars in revenue each year. The article suggests that the growth of the self-storage industry reflects American values such as individualism and the pursuit of material possessions.