Second Syndrome, the operator of the self-storage brand ‘Mini Storage DaLock’, is introducing ‘DaLock Owners’, a new unmanned shared storage startup model based on proven directly-managed branches.

Second Syndrome announced the launch of ‘DaLock Owners’, a win-win startup model that allows individual entrepreneurs to acquire storage units from existing directly-managed DaLock branches and entrust overall operations. Under this structure, Second Syndrome headquarters takes full charge of store management, unit sales, marketing, and customer service, while participants receive distributed profits based on actual operational performance.

Target locations are strictly selected from stable stores that have been directly operated by Second Syndrome for at least three years and have recorded a storage unit occupancy rate of 80% or higher. Starting with the Yeoksam branch, the company plans to select 10 key hub locations nationwide and recruit participants sequentially.

Unlike opening new stores, this model significantly reduces the risk of initial vacancy and risks associated with commercial district analysis by utilizing existing, verified operating branches. The company added that participants do not bear the burden of security deposits or premium fees, and the headquarters handles all store management practicalities.

The minimum participation amount is set at 30 million KRW. The company presented a business target of achieving an annual return rate of up to 30% relative to the investment amount, and plans to operate the program so that participants can transfer ownership if desired.

However, such return rates may fluctuate depending on business performance, such as actual occupancy rates per branch and various operating expenses, and do not guarantee a specific profit. Therefore, before signing a participation agreement, one should closely review profit distribution standards, operating expense items, contract periods, as well as ownership exercise and transfer terms.

According to Second Syndrome, Mini Storage DaLock operates more than 250 stores nationwide, with 120,000 cumulative members and a contract renewal rate of 91.6%. The stores are equipped with remote temperature, humidity, and security management systems utilizing Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) technology.

Hong Woo-tae, CEO of Second Syndrome, said, “Self-storage has established itself as an essential living infrastructure business in countries like the United States and Japan, and the domestic market is also expanding due to rising housing costs and space shortages,” adding, “Through DaLock Owners, we will support individual entrepreneurs in participating in the unmanned shared storage business alongside their primary jobs.”

Reporter Yang Seung-hyun