Key Takeaways:
- SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. is celebrating its 15th anniversary of operations in Canada.
- The company has expanded its Canadian footprint to become the largest self-storage operator in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and the fourth largest in the country.
- SmartStop operates 49 properties across Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec, with over 42,200 units and 4.3 million rentable square feet.
- The company has a strong national platform and is recognized as one of Canada’s most trusted storage brands.
- SmartStop plans to continue expanding its presence, strengthening its portfolio, and innovating in the Canadian market.
Introduction to SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc.
SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. (SmartStop) is a self-managed real estate investment trust that has been operating in Canada for 15 years. The company is a premier owner and operator of self-storage facilities in the United States and Canada, with a strong focus on providing secure, convenient, and customer-focused storage solutions to communities across the country. Since entering the Canadian market in 2010, SmartStop and its affiliates have expanded their Canadian footprint to become a leading player in the self-storage industry.
Growth and Expansion in Canada
SmartStop’s growth in Canada has been significant, with the company now operating 49 properties across four provinces, including Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec. The company has become the largest self-storage operator in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and the fourth largest in the country. This expansion is a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering best-in-class storage experiences to its customers and its dedication to building strong relationships with the communities it serves. Earlier this year, SmartStop opened its first Montréal location, marking its entrance into Quebec and extending its reach into another key Canadian market.
Operational Excellence and Customer Service
SmartStop’s success in Canada can be attributed to its focus on operational excellence, customer service, and long-term community presence. The company has modernized its facilities, improved digital tools, and expanded its security systems, all while adapting to changing residential and commercial storage needs. This commitment to excellence has positioned SmartStop as one of Canada’s most recognized and trusted storage brands. The company’s strong national platform continues to drive growth and expansion, with a focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences and building strong relationships with its partners and the communities it serves.
Future Plans and Opportunities
As SmartStop looks to the future, the company is focused on expanding its presence, strengthening its portfolio, and continuing to innovate in the Canadian market. Canada remains a central part of the company’s growth strategy, and this anniversary highlights the foundation that has been built and the opportunities that lie ahead. With a strong team of over 1,000 self-storage professionals and a portfolio of over 460 operating properties in the United States and Canada, SmartStop is well-positioned to continue its growth and expansion in the years to come. According to Bliss Edwards, Executive Vice President – Canada, "Canada remains central to our future, and this anniversary highlights the foundation we’ve built and the opportunities ahead."
Company Overview
SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. is a self-managed REIT with a fully integrated operations team focused on growing the SmartStop Self Storage brand. The company also sponsors other self-storage programs and offers third-party management services in the United States and Canada through its indirect subsidiaries. As of December 17, 2025, SmartStop has an owned or managed portfolio of over 460 operating properties, comprising over 270,000 units and 35 million rentable square feet. With a strong national platform and a commitment to excellence, SmartStop is a leader in the self-storage industry, providing secure, convenient, and customer-focused storage solutions to communities across the United States and Canada.