Pickle and Social is the third entertainment and hospitality brand — alongside Fairway Social and Roaring Social — to be launched by Competitive Social Ventures (CSV), a holding company based in Georgia.
Here, Brian Harper, the COO of CSV, who previously served 10 years at Top Golf, discusses Pickle and Social’s key differentiators and success. The brand got its start in 2021.
Pickle and Social aims to create an inclusive environment where entertainment is prioritized, integrating food, beverage and pickleball into its offerings. A significant differentiator for the brand is its culinary expertise, emphasizing fresh, high-quality food. This aligns with their approach to provide an elevated menu.
The concept’s design was influenced by feedback from professional pickleball players, ensuring the optimal environment from ceiling heights to lighting and court dimensions. Additionally, the company hosts a variety of social events, such as corn hole leagues, human foosball, and a summer concert series, emphasizing their focus on a robust entertainment experience that includes but does not center exclusively on pickleball.
Pickle and Social’s key differentiators and growth is supported by its parent company, CSV, which provides stability and diversity to its business model, safeguarding against potential downturns in pickleball’s popularity.
The company plans to expand, with several land deals in progress for new venues in locations like Scottsdale, Arizona and Alpharetta, Georgia. The expansion reflects the brand’s confidence in the growing market and their commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality experiences across their properties, enhancing customer loyalty and engagement.
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.