Container trade, capital tax allowances, future industry trends – and, inevitably, AI – these were the key topics of the CSTA meeting in Birmingham in June.
Over 100 professionals from across the container self-storage and trading community gathered in Birmingham on 23/24 June for the annual conference of the Container Self-Storage and Traders Association Conference - marking it as one of the most dynamic and best-attended events in the organisation’s history.
Attendees represented businesses from the UK, Europe, the Middle East, China, South Africa and the USA – reflecting the increasingly international scope of the sector.
Hosted over 24 hours and comprising presentations, panel discussions, round-table sessions and invaluable networking, the event brought together operators, traders, technology providers, and innovators, all eager to exchange ideas and explore the path ahead for the industry.
Lively welcome
The Meeting opened with a warm and well-attended Welcome Reception on the evening prior to the main agenda. The informal setting set the tone for open dialogue and relationship-building that continued throughout the event.
Special thanks go to 1st Containers, who generously sponsored the cocktail reception, and to Spinnaker Equipment and Leasing, who supported the buffet dinner. Their involvement ensured a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere from the outset.
Conference topics
The core conference programme featured a rich mix of keynote presentations, expert panels, technical sessions, and interactive round-table discussions. Topics spanned pressing global and regional trends, from container trade disruptions to cutting-edge automation.
Key themes included global trade volatility and emerging opportunities, taxation and capital allowances affecting container storage operators, the rising role of artificial intelligence in customer service and operations, the consolidation of industry players, and new innovations in container design and site technology.
Association update and Census launched
CSTA Secretary General Patrick Hicks opened proceedings with a report on the association’s progress and activities over the past year ...
Photo: CSTA Secretary General Patrick Hicks opens the event.