Discover winning pickleball business expansion strategies as we analyze PickleRage’s move into Alabama. Learn key insights on location selection, facility features and market timing to grow your pickleball venture successfully.
PickleRage is set to open its first premier indoor pickleball club in Alabama. This expansion not only marks a significant milestone for the franchise but also offers valuable insights for pickleball business owners looking to grow and innovate in this rapidly evolving market.
Location, Location, Location
PickleRage’s choice of Mobile, Alabama for its newest franchise underscores the importance of strategic location selection. The 42,545-square-foot facility will be situated in the Regency Square Shopping Center, a prime spot in the city’s commercial hub. This decision highlights several key considerations for pickleball business owners:
- Accessibility: The location’s proximity to major roads ensures easy access for players across the city and surrounding areas.
- Visibility: A high-traffic commercial area increases brand exposure and attracts potential new players.
- Community Integration: Placing the facility in a bustling area helps integrate the business into the local community fabric.
Jonathan Keith and Mark Howard are the franchise owners of the new Mobile location and longtime business partners in the real estate space. According to a press release on the new locations, they are eager to bring a first-class pickleball facility and experience to their local community.
“We’re excited to bring a premier pickleball facility to the Mobile area,” said Keith. “As a Mobile native, I’m passionate about introducing a new business and activity to my community. With the growing enthusiasm for pickleball, I’m confident that PickleRage will provide a dynamic and enjoyable way for our neighbors to connect, engage and stay active. We’re thrilled to foster new relationships and strengthen our community bonds.”
Facility Features
PickleRage’s Mobile location is set to feature state-of-the-art amenities that cater to both novice and advanced players:
- 12+ indoor CushionX courts
- Temperature-controlled environment
- Pro shop with high-quality equipment and apparel
- Advanced technology for court bookings and check-ins
For pickleball business owners, this serves as a blueprint for creating a premium player experience. Investing in quality infrastructure and technology can differentiate your business in a crowded market and justify premium pricing.
Diverse Programming: Catering to All Skill Levels
The new facility plans to offer a range of programs, lessons and clinics. This approach serves two crucial business objectives:
- Customer Retention: Varied programming keeps players engaged and coming back.
- Community Building: Diverse offerings foster connections among players, creating a loyal customer base.
The Franchise Model
PickleRage’s franchise model offers entrepreneurs a turnkey solution to enter the booming pickleball market. For existing pickleball business owners, this trend signals potential competition but also opportunities:
- Standardization: Develop standardized operations and training to facilitate potential future expansion.
“We are thrilled to enter Alabama for the first time,” said Eric O’Connor, the VP of franchise development at PickleRage. “Our goal is to create a thriving community around pickleball, providing players with top-notch facilities and opportunities to connect. The enthusiasm we’ve seen for pickleball across the country is incredible, and we’re confident that the Mobile location will be a fantastic addition to our growing network.”
Market Timing: Riding the Pickleball Wave
The unprecedented popularity of pickleball is driving PickleRage and other pickleball franchise’s rapid expansion. For business owners, this underscores the importance of:
- Market Research: Stay informed about local and national pickleball trends.
- Adaptability: Be prepared to scale operations to meet growing demand.
- Innovation: Continuously seek ways to improve and differentiate your offerings.
Lessons for Pickleball Business Success
PickleRage’s expansion into Alabama offers valuable insights for pickleball business owners:
- Choose strategic locations for maximum visibility and accessibility.
- Invest in quality facilities and technology to enhance player experience.
- Offer diverse programming to build community and retain customers.
- Consider franchising or partnerships for rapid growth.
- Stay attuned to market trends and be ready to adapt and innovate.
By applying these pickleball business expansion strategies, pickleball business owners can position themselves for success in this dynamic and growing industry.
Gain a competitive advantage
Subscribe to Pickleball Innovators for insider tips, expert insight and the latest trends to help your pickleball business thrive.
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.
