Industry Expert Spotlight with Christopher CJ Griffith, SIOR

We sat down with CJ Griffith, VP at Lee & Associates Central Florida, to dive into key trends for outdoor storage in Florida. He brings firsthand insight into the evolving landscape of industrial outdoor storage (IOS) in Florida, which is one of the nation’s fastest-growing markets.

Personal Journey into Outdoor Storage

CJ entered the outdoor storage space organically. This grassroots entry has given him an edge in navigating complex site requirements and understanding client needs from the ground up. “I fell into it. Clients needed spaces for local trucking companies, and I started helping them find those spaces. There were a few groups at the time investing in outdoor storage. I grew with them over time.”

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Tenant, Investor and Demographic Trends

CJ notes that industrial outdoor storage activity surged in early 2025, with “a frenzy of activity” across tenant and investor fronts. He observed that tenant requirements have grown:

“There’s been an increased size of what tenants need. Historically we were seeing 2-4 acres, but many requirements now are in the 4-6 range.”

This uptick has corresponded with a growth in contract activity and overall market engagement. On the capital side, CJ points to a rising tide of institutional investment, with JP Morgan and Blackstone being examples of large capital partnering with IOS funds.

He also references demographic shifts as a key driver of demand for outdoor storage, citing “the robust demand of Florida and the influx of people moving here”.

Geographic Expansion & Zoning Challenges

CJ is candid about the most pressing market issue:

“The biggest challenge is supply. There are more requirements than there is availability”

He describes the Orlando market as particularly constrained, with few available sites that have the requisite approvals and a building on the property. . Landowners who meet these needs are in a highly advantaged position.

As a result of this supply-demand mismatch for large outdoor storage properties, CJ has seen the broadening of geographic search radius. Whereas tenants used to focus on core metro areas, outlying areas are now in play:

“Whereas Lakeland and Spring Hill historically were not looked at for projects that would go to Orlando, projects are now moving there.”

Guidance for Market Participants

For Tenants: When evaluating outdoor storage sites, tenants should prioritize highway access, durable surfacing, secure entry, and confirmed zoning. Additional factors like functional buildings, proper drainage, and utility availability can also enhance site usability.

For outdoor storage investors, focus on highway access, zoning certainty, and site readiness to ensure stable post-acquisition use and avoid future compliance issues. Also consider market dynamics, tenant demand, and potential for long-term land value appreciation.

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We thank CJ for his time and the insights on the Florida outdoor storage market! For more updates, subscribe to our newsletter at outdoorstoragehub.com. If you would like to connect with CJ, he can be reached at 908-380-3627 or Cgriffith@lee-associates.com.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute real estate, legal, financial, or investment advice. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, no guarantee is made as to the completeness or reliability of any information presented. All real estate opportunities, pricing, and availability are subject to change without notice. Recipients are encouraged to conduct their own independent due diligence and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. The publisher disclaims all liability for actions taken based on this content. By accessing this information, recipients agree to hold harmless and indemnify the publisher and its owners, employees, agents, affiliates, and representatives from any claims, damages, losses, or expenses arising from their use of or reliance on this content.