Workplace storage is undergoing rapid change. Shifts in how people work, the rising cost of real estate, and the growing importance of security and sustainability are reshaping how organizations think about their storage systems. As we look toward 2026, the focus is no longer just on where things are stored but on how storage can drive efficiency, protect assets, and support long-term growth.
At McMurray Stern, we have spent decades helping organizations rethink their spaces. From high-density shelving to secure lockers, our solutions evolve with the needs of the industries we serve. Here are the trends we see shaping the future of workplace storage in 2026.
Square footage is limited, but cubic space is often overlooked. By 2026, more organizations will maximize vertical storage through solutions such as modular racking, mezzanine systems, and high-density shelving. These strategies expand capacity without requiring new construction or relocation. McMurray Stern specializes in designing upward-focused systems that unlock untapped potential within existing footprints.
Sustainability is moving from trend to expectation. Businesses are looking for storage solutions that minimize environmental impact and deliver long lifespans. Durable steel shelving and cabinetry built for decades of use reduce replacement cycles and support green building initiatives. At McMurray Stern, we design solutions with both performance and environmental responsibility in mind, aligning storage with broader sustainability goals.
By 2026, workplaces will demand even greater protection for sensitive information and high-value equipment. Secure lockers, controlled access systems, and detailed audit trails will become central to storage strategies. These features not only protect against theft and loss but also ensure compliance with strict industry regulations. McMurray Stern provides customized solutions that combine ease of use with robust security.
Rigid storage systems cannot keep up with the pace of change in modern workplaces. Flexibility will continue to drive investment in modular solutions that adapt to shifting workflows, staff sizes, and space requirements. Adjustable shelving, customizable interiors, and scalable systems make it easy to expand or reconfigure without costly overhauls. McMurray Stern’s modular designs are built to grow and change alongside your business.
Automation and technology are playing a bigger role in how organizations manage storage. Vertical lift modules, robotic retrieval systems, and RFID-enabled tracking are becoming more common in large-scale operations and distribution environments. Looking ahead, data-driven storage systems will provide real-time visibility into inventory and streamline workflows.
While automation adoption varies by industry, the key takeaway is that storage must be future-ready. McMurray Stern designs systems that not only meet today’s needs but also create a foundation that can adapt as technology evolves.
The workplace of the future is also more employee-focused. Day-use lockers, ergonomic shelving, and easy-to-access shared storage create safer and more efficient work environments. These solutions reduce clutter, enhance security for personal items, and support hybrid work models. By investing in employee-centered storage, organizations improve both productivity and workplace satisfaction.
The future of workplace storage is about smarter, more adaptable systems that align with evolving business needs. From sustainability to security to the gradual adoption of smart technologies, storage is becoming a strategic asset rather than an afterthought.
At McMurray Stern, we combine proven expertise with forward-thinking design to deliver storage systems that perform today and are prepared for tomorrow. As 2026 approaches, our commitment remains the same: to help organizations maximize their space, protect their assets, and prepare for the future of work.