Public Storage is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that specializes in the ownership and operation of self-storage facilities. As one of the largest operators in the United States, the company provides secure, climate-controlled and standard storage units for residential and commercial customers. Public Storage’s facilities are designed to serve a broad range of storage needs, from short-term personal storage to long-term business inventory management.
The company operates thousands of storage locations across the United States, offering features such as drive-up access, digital surveillance and online rental management. In addition to its core U.S. portfolio, Public Storage maintains a presence in Europe under the Shurgard Self Storage brand, extending its geographic reach into key markets such as the United Kingdom, France, Belgium and Sweden.
Founded in 1972 by B. Wayne Hughes and headquartered in Glendale, California, Public Storage has grown through a combination of organic development and strategic acquisitions. The firm completed its initial public offering in 1980 and converted to a REIT structure in 1995, establishing a framework focused on stable income and long-term asset appreciation.
Public Storage supports its storage offerings with ancillary products and services, including packing supplies, insurance options and tenant management tools. The company is overseen by an experienced management team and board of directors, who emphasize operational efficiency, customer service and portfolio diversification to drive sustainable growth.