On a more positive note house prices are starting to firm up!
House volume sales* show that when we compare the house volumes in January 2006 against January 2009 in Edinburgh and Glasgow, volume sales were down by 70% or so. By September 2009, the volume sales had decreased by approximately 50%, so a marked improvement.
Let’s hope the volume of sales keeps on growing into 2010. With the significant downturn in house sales, we have seen a reduction in move-ins to our facilities but on the other side of the coin we have seen far fewer customers move out. So, on balance, we are delighted to say that we have maintained our occupancies within the domestic market. Indeed, statistically, we have increased our market share in both Edinburgh and Glasgow. We have managed this by maintaining high levels of customer service, competitive pricing and not increasing our prices to our customers.
We have found storage enquiries within the commercial marketplace staying fairly level but fewer committing to using storage at the moment until the market improves. Len Lothian U Store has successfully won new, larger clients, such as Siemens, Museum for Scotland and work from PWC to name a few. These larger contract wins have led to a modest growth in occupancy levels.
Len Lothian U Store is in a strong position moving into 2010. Let’s hope the positive green shoots we read carry on and we all see a marked improvement in the future.
As I write this Claire & Ricky at our Hillington Facility are putting up the Christmas Tree which is putting a smile on everyone’s face as they come into the reception. Have a great Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.
On behalf of Len Lothian Ltd
Alistair Lothian
* Source : www.ros.gov.uk
Posted on Friday, 04 December 2009 under Website