Storemates

Storemates is a web-based service that allows people searching for storage to connect with people who are advertising their spare space (e.g. loft space, spare room, garage, etc.).[1] It was founded by Shaffique Prabatani, Ben Rogers and Jason Bryan in 2011. Storemates is considered part of the Collaborative Consumption[2] (Sharing Economy) concept, in a peer-to-peer market, allowing non-utilised assets to be shared for a monetary or non-monetary return.

How Storemates Works

People with spare space list it on the Storemates website with a location, size guide and weekly renting price;[3] then someone looking to store items can search in their desired location to find a storage space. An arrangement between the two parties is made.[4] The Storemates Storage Agreement is signed by both parties and they are covered by the Storemates Protection Guarantee.

History

The concept of Storemates was first thought up by Shaffique Prabatani after a personal experience of lack of space.[5] Shaff designed a simple flyer[6] asking neighbours if they had any spare room in their houses, offering to pay a few pounds a month in return for some storage space. He posted the fliers through the letterboxes and within a week he had received 15 phone calls from friendly neighbours offering him space for his stuff in their lofts, garages and spare rooms. Inspired by this local solution, Shaff, Ben and Jason decided to take this idea and create an online service where people can share their space with those in need; appearing on BBC's Dragon's Den[7] and BBC's Real Storage Wars.[8] Today Shaff and Ben continue as Managing Partners; Jason stepped down as a director, although remains as a consultant and shareholder.

References
  1. Jenny "Boost Your Income; Point 17", MoneySavingExpert.com, 18 March 2014
  2. Collaborative Consumption (founded by Rachel Botsman) "Collaborative Consumption Directory", CollaborativeConsumption.com
  3. Helen Davies "Is there cash in your attic?", The Sunday Times, 22 January 2013
  4. Nadiya Takolia "10 Ways to Earn Extra Cash From Your Home", The Guardian, 25 October 2011
  5. Miranda Bryant "Too much stuff? Try website that finds storage at your neighbours", Evening Standard, 5 January 2012
  6. Shaffique Prabatani "Shaff's Flyer", 13 May 2010
  7. BBC "Dragons Den", BBC, 14 October 2012
  8. BBC "Real Storage Wars", BBC, 14 April 2013


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