S.I. Container Builds (SICBS), a startup that converts recycled shipping containers into living, rental, and working spaces, announced that it has opened a new Chicago-area production facility. The facility, located in Buffalo Grove, enables the company to expand its production capabilities, with the ultimate aim of increasing access to economical, sustainable dwellings.
With housing affordability continuing to pose massive challenges to the average American and Canadian, the need for more housing solutions has grown increasingly dire.
Now, with the 32,000-square-foot facility, SICBS is positioned to ramp up its production to meet that need. Leveraging the space and the expertise of its workers, the company will be able to build multiple units at a time and execute most aspects of the production process in one location. The facility accommodates 10-15 containers, an in-house paint booth, an in-house welding station, and rolling carts for key build services (e.g., carpentry, plumbing, welding, electric).
“Our new facility gives us the ability to supercharge production, which in turn enables us to expand our partnerships within the B2B housing space,” said Rory Rubin, CEO and co-founder of S.I. Container Builds. “We understand the critical housing shortage the U.S. and Canada are facing, and we believe that we have figured out the formula for creating many dwellings quickly, without compromising on quality or aesthetic appeal. We are ready to tackle this problem with our sustainable, affordable solution.”
This announcement comes on the heels of several milestones for the company. In April, SICBS announced that it had raised $1.7MM to scale its work in key B2B verticals. In May, the company signed a strategic client, one of North America’s largest campground, RV resort, and manufactured home community owners. Recently, the company also gained certification from ICC NTA, which signifies that SICBS products are constructed to meet or exceed all building requirements set forth by each state in the U.S. This certification not only sets SICBS apart from other container build companies, but also enables the company to expedite the state approval process for future building projects.