SpaceBox, a South Africa-based valet-storage startup launched as a division of XtraSpace Self Storage, recently became a sponsor for TEDx Table Mountain, an independent event business that hosts local talks designed under the TED Talk model. TED is a nonprofit group devoted to spreading ideas through short discussion events featuring video and individual speakers. The TEDx Program is “designed to help communities, organizations and individuals to spark conversation and connection through local TED-like experiences,” according to the organization’s website.
When TEDx Table Mountain began using SpaceBox services to store its event equipment, the two companies saw synergies in their approach to creativity and innovation, according to a SpaceBox press release. “TEDx is about spreading ideas and deepening discussion on issues confronting us; it’s also about showcasing African innovation, solutions and thought-leadership,” said Hjalmar Venter, CEO for SpaceBox. “We support the drive to showcase how bright and passionate Africans are working to find solutions to the continent’s problems.”
Similar to other valet-style storage operators, SpaceBox offers by-the-bin storage targeted at businesses and residents who don’t have adequate onsite storage. Items are stored in secure warehouses that are off limits to customers. The company uses an online platform that allows customers to schedule item pickup, maintain a visual catalog of stored bins, and schedule delivery of items to their home or office. Service is currently available within a 30-kilometer radius of Cape Town and Johannesburg, according to the company website.
The company was launched as an e-commerce extension of XtraSpace, which operates 19 self-storage facilities in the South African provinces of Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape. In addition to traditional self-storage space, XtraSpace locations offer business centers with flexible offices for small and medium-sized companies, meeting rooms, free Internet, and copying and fax facilities. The company also offers domestic and international courier services.
SpaceBox is not related to Spacebox Ltd., a Hong Kong-based valet-storage operator.
TEDx Table Mountain is a volunteer-based nonprofit. All funds raised through event ticket sales and business sponsorships are required to be put back into the organizing of a TEDx event, according to the TED website.
