How to Invest in Pickleball: Best Ways to Cash In on the Trend

When a new industry opens up, there can be a “gold rush” where ambitious businesspeople jump at the chance to join. Such is the case for pickleball, which media outlets like NBC News are calling “America’s Fastest-Growing Sport.” With an impressive upward trajectory, many businesspeople are considering how to invest in pickleball. Let’s take a look at how well pickleball is doing, how franchising can help an eager entrepreneur, and good pickleball investment opportunities.

The Game’s Just Starting

Since its inception in 1965, pickleball has evolved from a backyard pastime to a mainstream sport with a rapidly growing following. According to digital pickleball facilitation group Pickleheads, by 2023 this accessible sport has captivated an impressive 36.5 million players in the U.S. alone, making pickleball investment a very tantalizing prospect.

This remarkable expansion of pickleball is not just a trend; it’s a movement. The sport’s accessibility and appeal to a wide range of age groups have been pivotal in its growth. Pickleball’s rules are simple to learn, making it welcoming for beginners, while the strategic depth of the game continues to engage more experienced players. This inclusivity has been a key driver in its widespread popularity.

In terms of infrastructure, Pickleheads stated that as of 2023, there were 10,320 pickleball facilities across the U.S. These facilities range from dedicated pickleball complexes to multipurpose sports centers that include pickleball courts. While this number is significant, it also highlights the potential for further growth for anyone looking at how to invest in pickleball. The current facilities are working to meet the increasing demand, but with the sport’s ongoing popularity surge, there is considerable room for new developments and investments in this area.

Looking at the market analytically, experts are forecasting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7% through 2028 for the pickleball industry. This growth is not just in the number of players and facilities but extends to related sectors such as equipment manufacturing, coaching services, and event hosting. The sport’s expansion is creating a burgeoning market for products and services tailored to pickleball enthusiasts.

For entrepreneurs considering how to invest in pickleball, this represents a significant opportunity. Investing in pickleball could take various forms, from developing new playing facilities, launching equipment and apparel brands, to offering specialized training and coaching services. The market is ripe for innovation and expansion, with a growing customer base eager for enhanced pickleball experiences.

With millions of players and a steady growth rate, the pickleball industry offers fertile ground for entrepreneurial ventures. As the sport continues to expand, the opportunities for profitable, impactful investments in the pickleball industry are bound to increase.

Franchising: Join a Winning Team

For entrepreneurs keen to learn how to invest in pickleball, franchising presents a strategic and supportive route to business ownership. Starting a new business in any field can be daunting, especially for those new to a particular industry or venturing into a newly emerging market like pickleball. In such scenarios, the franchise model offers a balance of independence and guided support that can be invaluable.

Embarking on an independent business journey, especially in a relatively new and evolving industry like pickleball, comes with its own set of challenges. Independent business owners bear the full weight of responsibilities, from handling administrative duties to meeting customer needs. They’re tasked with making all the critical decisions about business growth, crafting a comprehensive business plan, developing a budget, and creating guiding documents necessary for the business’s success. While this route offers control and independence, it also demands extensive industry knowledge, business acumen, and a readiness to face the uncertainties of a new market.

Franchising with a brand like The Pickle Pad, however, can significantly streamline the process of joining the industry. One of the primary advantages is access to a proven business model and an established business plan. This framework reduces the risks commonly associated with starting a business from scratch, especially in a new industry.

Moreover, franchisees benefit from aligning with a recognized brand name that often comes with a loyal customer base. Franchisors also offer substantial administrative support, including advertising, marketing, and technology. Additionally, being part of a franchise brings benefits like increased purchasing power for equipment and supplies, which can lead to significant cost savings.

Another advantage is the network of fellow franchisees. This community can be an invaluable resource, providing advice, guidance, and support. For entrepreneurs eager to figure out how to invest in pickleball, franchising offers a compelling blend of independence and support. With a franchise like The Pickle Pad, entrepreneurs gain the tools, resources, and community necessary to thrive in the pickleball industry.

One Industry, Multiple Business Ideas

Opportunities for investment in the pickleball industry are vast and varied. The sport’s rising popularity makes it an ideal arena for innovative business ventures. One particularly promising avenue is establishing a pickleball court facility, especially one modeled after a family entertainment center (FEC), such as The Pickle Pad.

FECs are a booming segment in the entertainment industry. An August 2023 article on Vending Times said FECs boast a global market value of $21.05 billion. The market for FECs is projected to grow at an impressive 12.29% CAGR through 2026. This growth trajectory indicates a burgeoning demand for family-oriented entertainment options, where pickleball facilities can significantly contribute.

FECs are designed to appeal to a wide range of ages, making them perfect for families and individuals seeking both social and physical entertainment. A pickleball facility structured as an FEC can attract a diverse clientele, from children and teenagers to adults and seniors, making it a versatile, profitable business model. Lastly, given the relatively small number of existing facilities, there are ample opportunities to pioneer this sport in new markets. Entrepreneurs have the chance to be trailblazers, introducing pickleball to untapped areas and building a loyal customer base.

The pickleball industry presents a variety of business opportunities for entrepreneurs. For those looking for different avenues within the pickleball industry, here are a few alternatives:

• Pickleball equipment retailer
• Pickleball court construction
• Pickleball training/coaching
• Pickleball gear customization

Join the Rising Pickleball Industry with The Pickle Pad

We’re eager to welcome you to our new, growing indoor pickleball franchise. We’re seeking ambitious go-getters like you who are ready to make their mark in this industry ripe with opportunities and open markets. Fill out and submit a franchise form today to learn more about your franchising opportunity with The Pickle Pad.