Self-Storage Operator SROA Capital Partners With INOArmor to Offer a 100% Biodegradable Packing Product

SROA Capital Partners, a private-equity real estate firm that operates the Storage Rentals of America self-storage brand, is partnering with INOArmor, a manufacturer of biomaterials, to offer 100% biodegradable packing products at its 650 facilities. The lightweight padding material will replace the bubble wrap previously sold in its retail stores, according to a press release.

The new product uses natural silk cocoons, which have a dome structure and provide impact absorption. They’re enclosed in polyhydroxyalkanoates, a type of bioplastic produced by bacteria and other micro-organisms through microbial synthesis.

“We are very excited to collaborate and build multiple products with SROA over the next few years to help them meet their sustainability initiatives,” said Charlie Maddock, CEO and founder of INOArmor.

SROA has implemented other eco-friendly initiatives at its facilities including LED lighting and solar panels to reduce its carbon footprint and energy costs. The company is exploring the addition of electric-vehicle charging stations for select properties.

Headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, SROA operates self-storage in 31 U.S. states. It also operates in the United Kingdom under the Kangaroo Self Storage brand. The company was founded in 2013 by real estate entrepreneur Benjamin Macfarland in partnership with Sidney Kohl and James Jenkins.

INOArmor produces all-natural and impact-resistant material composite that can be used as an alternative to synthetic foam for protecting and insulating products during shipment and storage. It launched a home-compostable bag in conjunction with Pantalones Organic Tequila, cofounded by Matthew and Camila McConaughey, on Earth Day this year and has since expanded to other partners in multiple industries.

Source: Morningstar, Industry Leader SROA Capital Partners with INO Armor to Launch Biodegradable Alternative to Bubble Wrap Across Nationwide Portfolio