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Storage Asset Management and StorageDefender Unveil Smart Unit Rollout
Partnership brings real-time unit monitoring and automation to self-storage portfolio
Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:11pm
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Storage Asset Management (SAM), the industry's largest privately owned third-party self-storage management firm, has partnered with StorageDefender to implement a portfolio-wide rollout of smart storage units. This move aims to enhance the tenant experience, drive operational efficiencies, and improve financial performance across SAM's nationwide portfolio.
Why it matters
The decision to standardize on smart unit technology follows a comprehensive evaluation of customer demand, with 61% of tenants identifying individual unit monitoring as a critical feature. By providing real-time visibility and automation, SAM is meeting the evolving expectations of modern renters and delivering measurable financial benefits through data-driven oversight and efficient remote facility management.
The details
Central to this initiative is the theme "Peace of Mind that Profits." The smart unit technology is designed to drive a sustainable revenue stream that directly improves Net Operating Income (NOI) by enhancing the tenant experience and enabling efficient, scalable remote facility management. SAM has appointed a dedicated Program Success Manager to lead the seamless adoption of this portfolio-wide rollout in collaboration with StorageDefender's success team.
- The decision to standardize on smart unit technology follows a comprehensive evaluation conducted in 2025.
- The portfolio-wide rollout of smart units is currently underway.
The players
Storage Asset Management (SAM)
The industry's largest privately owned third-party self-storage management firm with a portfolio spanning the United States.
StorageDefender
A leading provider of smart facility technology for the self-storage industry, offering a comprehensive platform that includes the Web Management Portal, Smart Storage Units, and Smart Zones.
Alyssa Quill
CEO of Storage Asset Management.
Mark Cieri
CEO of StorageDefender.
What they’re saying
“Our collaboration with StorageDefender reflects our commitment to innovation and stewardship. Smart Units allow us to deliver measurable financial impact while providing greater protection and peace of mind.”
— Alyssa Quill, CEO of Storage Asset Management
“Wide-scale adoption of Smart Unit technology is no longer a question of 'if,' but 'how fast'. As the pioneer in this space, we see SAM at the forefront, proving that real-time unit connectivity is the key to managing the modern facility. Together, I believe we are solidifying a benchmark that will redefine property management for years to come.”
— Mark Cieri, CEO of StorageDefender
What’s next
StorageDefender will be showcasing the results of this portfolio-wide smart unit rollout at Booth #843 during the Self Storage Association Spring Conference on March 18-20th.
The takeaway
This partnership between Storage Asset Management and StorageDefender demonstrates the self-storage industry's embrace of smart technology to enhance the tenant experience, drive operational efficiencies, and improve financial performance. The widespread adoption of real-time unit monitoring and automation is poised to redefine property management in the years to come.
