COVER STORY
Spradling found himself captivated by the timeless charm of Italy, particu- larly the city of Verona. Spending extended periods in
Verona, he indulged in the simple pleasures of life: reading, sipping wine, and engaging in lively conversa- tions with locals. He embraced the Italian way of life, savoring every moment and gaining a deeper appre- ciation for the intricacies of Italian culture. Spradling’s love for Verona and Italy as a whole stemmed not only from its picturesque landscapes but also from the warmth and hospitality of its people. It was a transformative experience for him, enriching his perspective and leaving an indelible mark on his soul.
From Textiles To Storage Spradling’s journey into the world of business began with a venture into textiles, where he discovered a passion for fabrics and a keen eye for detail and style. His experiences in the textile industry took him to Mexico, honed his entrepreneurial skills, and provided him with valuable insights into the world of commerce. His innate ability to identify market trends and capitalize on emerging opportuni- ties set him apart as a visionary businessman. However, it was in the self-storage industry that he would leave his most enduring mark. Spradling’s initial steps in the self-storage sector were taken as a laborer for Watson and Taylor, where he learned the intricacies of self-storage construction, laying the foundation for a storied career that would see him revolutionize the industry. His tenure at Watson and Taylor was not just a job; it was a masterclass in understanding the nuts and bolts of the business from the ground up. This experience proved invaluable, as he would later go on to innovate and improve many areas within the self-storage industry.
An Industry Pioneer In the 1980s, Spradling’s journey took an unexpected turn as he embarked on a new chapter in Toronto, Ont. It was there that he would make his mark on the self-storage industry and cement his legacy as a pioneering figure. Co-founding All Canadian Self-Storage, later known as XYZ Storage, in 1997, he brought his vision to life and revolutionized the industry with innovative solutions and customer- centric approaches.
One of his most notable achieve- ments was the creation of the first drive-thru self-storage facility in Ontario. This groundbreaking concept not only transformed the way people accessed storage but also set a new standard for convenience and secu- rity. His visionary thinking and willing- ness to challenge the status quo propelled XYZ Storage to new heights of success, establishing it as a leader in the industry.
Partner And Innovator Spradling’s contributions to XYZ Storage extended far beyond his role as a co-founder and ultimately presi- dent emeritus. He was not only a visionary businessman but also a great partne r, whose collaborative spirit and inclusive approach helped shape the company’s culture and success. His diverse background, from textiles to self-storage, brought a unique perspective to XYZ Storage. He understood the value of different viewpoints and encouraged innovation and creativity among his team. Spradling’s hands-on approach was legendary; he led by example, never hesitating to roll up his sleeves and get his hands dirty. Whether it was clearing snow during winter storms or tackling challenging projects, he was always at the forefront, inspiring his team with his work ethic and dedication. Moreover, Spradling believed in investing in people. He recognized that a diverse team with varied skills and
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perspectives was essential for success. That’s why he encouraged participa- tion from all levels of the organization, from frontline staff to senior manage- ment. His commitment to fostering talent and nurturing a culture of learning and growth contributed significantly to XYZ Storage’s success. Spradling’s impact extended beyond the business realm. He was deeply involved in industry associations, such as the Canadian Self Storage Association (CSSA), where he advo- cated for inclusivity and collaboration. He understood the importance of building strong networks and partner- ships, both within the industry and the community at large. His efforts to bring together operators from differ- ent regions not only enriched the industry but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.
Community Compassion Spradling was deeply invested in giving back to the communities that sup- ported him. One notable example of his dedication to community engage- ment was his support for the Leaside community in Toronto, Ont. In celebration of the 100th anniver- sary of the Leaside community, Spradling and XYZ Storage played a pivotal role in hosting a Gala event at their flagship facility. This event, which brought together residents, local businesses, and dignitaries from all levels of government, was a testament to the strength and resil- ience of the Leaside community. His decision to donate the space of XYZ Storage’s flagship facility for the Gala exemplified his belief in the importance of supporting and celebrat- ing community milestones. By provid- ing a venue for the event, Spradling demonstrated his commitment to fostering a sense of unity and belong- ing among Leaside residents. The Gala itself was a resounding success, with attendees including Stephen Harper, Canada’s prime
Spring 2024
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