Hold Self Storage is a London-based company that has quickly gained attention for its ambition to transform the traditional self-storage market. Founded in March 2024 by Frederic de Ryckman de Betz and Callum Kempe, the business was created with a clear vision to modernise the sector through advanced technology, a customer-first approach, and a strong commitment to sustainability. In a remarkably short time, it has established itself as a forward-thinking player in an industry that has often relied on outdated practices.
The story of Hold Self Storage began when Frederic de Ryckman de Betz, a respected figure with years of experience in the storage sector, teamed up with Callum Kempe. Callum is the son of Paul Kempe, the founder of City and Provincial Properties, which has played an important role in funding the company. Frederic brought an impressive track record to the venture, having served as Chairman of the Self Storage Association and Vice President of the Federation of European Self Storage Associations. His deep knowledge of the market and insight into its challenges became a driving force in shaping the business.
From the very beginning, the company attracted major backing. In its founding year, Hold Self Storage secured a commitment of one hundred million pounds from City and Provincial Properties. This funding allowed the business to move quickly in acquiring its first location, an 88,000 square foot facility in King’s Cross, which opened its doors in March 2024 as Hold’s first London site.. This launch was not only the start of operations but also a showcase of the company’s ambition to create a new type of storage experience for the city.
Following the opening of Kings Cross, Hold Self Storage wasted no time in setting its sights on expansion. The company has announced plans to develop over twenty locations across London by 2030. Planning approvals have already been secured for sites in Chiswick, Croydon, Woodford, and Bow, with construction expected to begin in late 2025. Additional projects in other boroughs are also being prepared, building a network that will make the brand a familiar name across the capital.
The services offered by Hold Self Storage are designed to meet the needs of a wide range of customers. Individuals looking for short-term space, students in need of secure storage between terms, and businesses seeking room for inventory or equipment can all find options suited to their needs. Units range from compact lockers ideal for personal items to large spaces capable of holding furniture or bulky goods. Customers can also purchase moving supplies and rent workspace within the facilities, making it a more complete solution than many traditional storage centres.
One of the main advantages of Hold Self Storage is its focus on flexibility. Customers can easily upsize or downsize their unit without hassle, which means they only pay for the space they truly need at any given time. This approach reflects the company’s understanding that storage requirements can change quickly and that convenience is as important as cost.
Security is a priority in every location. All facilities are fitted with twenty-four-hour CCTV monitoring, secure PIN code access, and alarm systems. Climate-secure environments are also standard, ensuring that items remain protected from significant temperature changes and humidity that could cause damage. These measures provide customers with confidence that their belongings are stored in a safe and stable environment.
Technology plays a central role in the company’s strategy. Hold Self Storage has introduced a fully online unit reservation process, augmented reality tools to help customers choose the right unit size, and app-based controls that allow users to manage entry from their phones. These innovations simplify the storage process and enhance the customer experience, making it quicker and easier to use than older models of storage that rely heavily on manual processes.
Sustainability is another area where Hold Self Storage stands out. The company aims for BREEAM Outstanding ratings on all new developments, which is the highest standard for environmental building performance in the United Kingdom. Across its operations, it adopts environmentally friendly measures such as energy-efficient lighting, sourcing renewable energy, and using sustainable construction materials. These choices not only reduce the environmental footprint but also reflect a long-term vision of responsible business growth.
The approach taken by Hold Self Storage has not gone unnoticed. The company has already been recognized with several awards, including the 2025 Feefo Gold Award and the 2025 InHouse Gold Award, both of which highlight excellence in customer service. These achievements are notable for a company still in its early stages and suggest that its mix of technology, service, and sustainability is resonating strongly with customers.
The rise of Hold Self Storage comes at a time when urban living is creating a growing demand for secure and flexible storage options. Space is at a premium in London, and more people are seeking solutions that are easy to use, accessible, and tailored to modern needs. By combining strong industry expertise, significant financial backing, and a willingness to adopt the latest technologies, Hold Self Storage has created a model that challenges the way storage has traditionally been delivered.
Looking ahead, the company’s growth plans are ambitious but grounded in a clear understanding of market trends. The combination of central and suburban locations will allow it to reach different customer groups, while the continued investment in innovation will help maintain its competitive edge. With a strong leadership team and a proven ability to deliver high-quality facilities, Hold Self Storage is in a strong position to meet its goal of operating more than twenty sites in London within the next seven years.
In just over a year since its founding, Hold Self Storage has moved from concept to reality with remarkable speed. Its King’s Cross flagship has set a benchmark for what a modern self-storage facility can offer, combining practical solutions with technology-driven convenience and environmental responsibility. As the company continues to expand, it is likely to become a major name in the London property landscape, offering a service that reflects both the changing needs of the city and the possibilities of innovation in a sector ready for change.
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