Storage systems and methods

A storage system comprising:

• a first set of parallel rails and a second set of parallel rails extending transverse to the first set in a substantially horizontal plane to form a grid having a plurality of grid spaces;
• a set of uprights, the uprights and rails together defining a framework;
• a plurality of storage containers arranged in stacks located beneath the rails and within the framework;
• and
• at least one load handling device disposed above and operable on the rails, and arranged to move laterally above the stacks on the rails, the at least one load handling device having a lifting device arranged to lift one or more containers or parts of one or more containers, from a stack,
• wherein the uprights and an underside of the grid further include connection means for connection of the containers or the stacks of containers to the framework for provision of services to the containers.