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Self Storage Insight Blog

Why "More Than Storage" Wins in Today's Market

In this week’s episode of the Self Storage Insight Podcast, James Shepherd sits down with Trouper Arnold of Hilltop Storage Solutions to explore what happens when a storage facility becomes more than just a place to park RVs or store belongings. Rooted in a multi-generation family story, Hilltop’s evolution shows how creativity, customer experience, and community-building can dramatically increase retention and revenue.

Trouper shares how his family’s entrepreneurial journey began decades ago with a Texas dude ranch, large-scale events, and disaster relief efforts—long before storage entered the picture. After years of traveling the country and studying campgrounds and storage facilities, the family saw an opportunity to build something different. When Hilltop launched its RV and boat storage operation in 2018, the goal wasn’t simply to fill spaces, but to design the kind of experience that would attract the right customers and create long-term loyalty.

 

That mindset led to rapid growth. After a slow initial lease-up, demand surged, and Hilltop expanded. But the real turning point came when the team began adding complementary services—a retail grill shop, a commercial kitchen, and eventually a full-scale food truck park. What started as a simple way to draw traffic quickly evolved into a destination that now attracts thousands of visitors on busy weekends and supports multiple revenue streams across the business.

Throughout the conversation, Trouper emphasizes a relentless focus on customer experience. From premium security and thoughtful facility design to family-friendly amenities, entertainment, and community events, every detail is intentional. The result is remarkable loyalty, customers who remain even after selling their RVs and strong demand for Hilltop’s upcoming climate-controlled self storage expansion.

The bigger takeaway is clear: storage doesn’t have to be boring. Operators who focus on experience, community, and creativity can differentiate themselves in competitive markets, increase customer retention, and unlock entirely new opportunities for growth.

For a fresh perspective on building community, enhancing customer experience, and creating new revenue streams around your facility, tune in to this week’s episode of the Self Storage Insight Podcast.

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