Pickleball: A Solution to Mall Vacancy and a Growing Trend
Pickleball’s Rise in Popularity
Pickleball, a hybrid sport combining elements of badminton, ping-pong, and tennis, has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years. Between 2019 and 2021, the sport grew by an estimated 40 percent, attracting over 8.9 million players nationwide. Its accessibility and inclusivity have made it a favorite among people of all ages and abilities.
The Decline of Shopping Malls
While pickleball’s popularity has soared, America’s shopping malls have faced a decline. As more consumers turn to online shopping, malls have struggled to maintain foot traffic and revenue. This has led to an increase in vacant storefronts, creating an opportunity for pickleball courts to fill this void.
Pickleball Courts in Vacant Storefronts
Developers are capitalizing on pickleball’s popularity and the availability of vacant mall space by converting former retail stores into pickleball venues. These spaces offer several advantages:
- Ample space: Malls typically have large, open spaces that can accommodate multiple pickleball courts.
- Convenient location: Malls are often located in central areas with easy access for players.
- Existing amenities: Malls often provide amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and parking.
Examples of Pickleball Court Conversions
Several malls across the country have successfully converted vacant storefronts into pickleball courts. Notable examples include:
- Paddle Up Pickleball Club in Lake St. Louis, Missouri, occupying a former Bed, Bath & Beyond store.
- All-Stars Pickleball Club in Concord, New Hampshire, located in the former space of Old Navy at the Steeplegate Mall.
- Massive indoor pickleball venue in Stamford, Connecticut, planned for the site of a former Saks Off 5th in the Stamford Town Center shopping mall, with 28 courts, a cafe, and a childcare area.
- Proshot Pickleball in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, operating in the former Burlington Coat Factory store at the Harbor Square Shopping Center.
Benefits of Pickleball Court Conversions
The conversion of vacant mall space into pickleball courts offers several benefits:
- Increased foot traffic: Pickleball players bring new customers to malls, boosting revenue for other businesses.
- Community engagement: Pickleball courts provide a space for people to socialize, exercise, and connect with others.
- Revitalization of malls: Pickleball courts can help malls adapt to changing consumer trends and attract a new generation of shoppers.
Pickleball’s Accessibility and Inclusivity
Pickleball is an accessible sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels. Its easy-to-understand scoring system and reduced running requirement make it a great option for beginners and those with limited mobility.
Pickleball also promotes inclusivity by providing a welcoming environment for players of all backgrounds and identities. It has been embraced by communities as a way to foster connection and build stronger relationships.
Conclusion
The rise of pickleball and the decline of shopping malls have created an opportunity for developers to repurpose vacant retail spaces into pickleball courts. These conversions offer benefits such as increased foot traffic, community engagement, and mall revitalization. Pickleball’s accessibility and inclusivity make it an ideal sport for these new venues, providing a fun and welcoming environment for players of all ages and abilities.
