Discover how the Dill Dinkers franchise expansion in New Jersey is fueling growth. Learn why franchising offers advantages in real estate, training and networking for entrepreneurs.
When seeking to open a pickleball business, entrepreneurs have two primary options: go the independent route or partner with a franchise. For Stephen Hafner, part of the regional development team bringing 20 Dill Dinkers units to New Jersey, franchising provided significant advantages in overcoming real estate challenges, scaling operations and fostering strong industry connections.
Overcoming Real Estate Hurdles Through Franchising
Initially, Hafner explored the idea of launching an independent pickleball club, but he quickly ran into barriers — particularly in securing real estate. “After some research, we learned a lot and decided to look at a franchise path after not making any progress with landlords as an independent club,” he explained.
New Jersey is a competitive, high-cost real estate market, making it difficult for independent businesses to secure ideal locations. However, the Dill Dinkers franchise expansion in New Jersey helped Hafner and his team gain credibility and support when working with property owners. With a proven model and brand recognition, franchises often have an easier time negotiating leases and demonstrating financial sustainability to landlords.
Establishing a Regional Training Hub
To ensure consistency across all 20 planned locations, Hafner and his team are implementing a structured training model, a core part of Dill Dinkers’ franchising approach. “Part of being a Dill Dinkers regional developer is establishing a local training center in our first location,” said Hafner. “This is where we will bring our own new franchisees to learn the management system and business philosophy that are helping current Dill Dinkers locations be successful.”
This strategy allows franchisees to receive hands-on training in operations, customer service and brand standards before launching their own locations. It also fosters a sense of unity among Dill Dinkers operators in the region, ensuring a consistent and high-quality player experience across all facilities.
The Role of a Regional Developer in Franchise Expansion
As a regional developer, Hafner plays a critical role in the Dill Dinkers franchise expansion in New Jersey. “We plan to support the single clubs in our region by applying team building and the high standards of customer care philosophy we have gained over our own careers prior to joining Dill Dinkers,” he said.
Regional developers act as both ambassadors and quality controllers, ensuring that each franchise location upholds the standards of the brand while adapting to local market needs. Hafner’s background in management and team-building aligns well with these responsibilities, helping to create a thriving and scalable pickleball network in Central New Jersey.
The Power of Networking and Industry Connections
Hafner’s journey into franchising was also fueled by key industry connections. He first encountered the Dill Dinkers team through the Pickleball Minds Seminar and later attended Discovery Day, an event where potential franchisees learn about the Dill Dinkers business firsthand.
“That was also the first time I ever played pickleball,” recalled Hafner. “Additionally, I met two amazing people who also signed on as regional developers. We remain in touch and help each other out since we are on a similar journey at the same time.”
This underscores the value of networking in the pickleball business. For aspiring entrepreneurs, industry events and franchise discovery days can provide critical insights, mentorship opportunities, and partnerships that help navigate the challenges of launching a business.
With 20 Dill Dinkers locations planned across the state, Hafner is optimistic about the franchise’s impact on New Jersey’s pickleball community. “Our goal is to provide our local communities with pickleball clubs that encourage everyone to join together and experience the joy that the sport has already brought to so many,” he said.
Interested in a pickleball business networking event? Join the 2025 Pickleball Innovators Summit, taking place October 7-9, 2025 in Tucson, Arizona. Learn more.
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With over a decade spent covering the business side of sports and fitness, Rachel Chonko brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for active communities to Peake Media. As Editor-in-Chief, she’s focused on helping pickleball clubs and fitness facilities thrive, from guiding growth strategies to showcasing the latest industry trends. Rachel also hosts the Club Solutions Magazine Podcast, where she interviews leaders in fitness and pickleball to share insights and success stories with the wider community to give her listeners a competitive edge.
After taking up pickleball herself, Rachel has come to appreciate the sport’s unique blend of social connection and active living — a mix that’s perfectly in line with her editorial philosophy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her articles below for a deep dive into the energy and culture driving pickleball’s rapid rise.
