Are Prefab Apartments the Key to Solving the Housing Crisis?
Steel magnate Barry Zekelman is investing $1 billion in modular housing through his company Z Modular, aiming to address the U.S. housing crisis by producing prefab apartment complexes more efficiently and cost-effectively. Despite the potential benefits, such as reduced reliance on scarce construction labor and improved durability against climate challenges, the venture faces challenges due to high capital costs and the cyclical nature of construction. Zekelman is considering partnerships or an IPO to fund expansion, hoping to scale the business globally.