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Mini Mall Storage Properties' Pioneering History

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Mini Mall Storage Properties reached many significant milestones.
- During our first year of operations, we acquired 26 properties across Canada
- Amassed $100 million in assets under management (AUM).
As we memorialize our recent successes, current Mini Mall Storage Properties CEO, Adam Villard, takes a trip down memory lane with the original founder and visionary of Mini Mall Self-Storage – Joe Giuffre, who turns 94 tomorrow!
Joe Giuffre is an innovative entrepreneur and pioneer of the self-storage industry – even coining the phrase ‘self-storage’ in Canada. He opened Mini Mall Self-Storage Ltd. in 1977, which remained in operation for 43 years, before passing the torch to son and Avenue Living CEO, Anthony Giuffre, in 2020.
Today, Mini Mall Storage Properties continues to build upon Joe’s legacy, industry knowledge, and experience to fulfill the need for self-storage across Canada. According to Joe, “Self storage was the best use and value for these sites and still remains so to this day.”
Over the past year, our talented top-tier team carried on the successful venture thanks to the many learnings from Joe. As we reflect on the history of Mini Mall Storage, our team is looking forward to the exciting future as we continue to strategically drive innovative operations and consolidate the storage market across Canada.
Thank you, Joe, for your guidance, resilience, and industry expertise — we’d also like to wish you a very happy 94th birthday. View the full interview with Joe Giuffre and Adam Villard.
At Mini Mall Storage, we believe storage should make life easier. That’s why our facilities offer drive-up access for quick loading and unloading and climate-controlled units to protect your belongings year-round. Whether you’re storing seasonal gear, furniture, or valuables, we provide secure, modern solutions designed for your convenience.
Find a location near you and start storing smarter today.
FAQs
Who founded Mini Mall Self-Storage?
Mini Mall Self-Storage was founded by Joe Giuffre in 1977, making him a pioneer in Canada’s self-storage industry.
How did Mini Mall Storage start in Canada?
Joe Giuffre opened the first Mini Mall Self-Storage in 1977, introducing the concept of self-storage to Canadian markets.
What makes Mini Mall Storage different from other providers?
Mini Mall Storage offers features like drive-up access, climate-controlled units, and secure facilities for customer convenience.