The Picklr facility in Salt Lake City, Utah, which is the world’s largest pickleball franchise, is expanding its reach to Japan. The Picklr, known for its network of indoor pickleball clubs, has announced plans to open 20 new locations in Japan over the next five years. This expansion is made possible through a strategic partnership with Nippon Pickleball Holdings, the leading pickleball company in Japan.
Who’s Behind The Picklr’s Expansion
The CEO of The Picklr, Jorge Barragan, is driving this aggressive growth strategy as pickleball continues to experience a surge in popularity. With a 223% increase in participation over the past three years, pickleball has been recognized as the “fastest-growing” sport by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association. In the U.S. alone, there are over 20 million pickleball players, according to the SFIA.
Where The Picklr Currently Stands
Currently operating 40 locations in the United States and Canada, The Picklr is looking to double its footprint to 80 clubs by the end of the year. Barragan revealed that the company has already sold over 500 franchises across the U.S., Canada, and Japan, with plans for these new locations to open within the next five years. The Picklr clubs offer a range of services including court reservations, clinics, leagues, tournaments, and private events, all following a membership model with an average of 500 to 700 members per club.
Why Japan Is The Next Destination
Barragan sees Japan as the perfect entry point for expanding into the broader Asian market. He highlighted Japan’s focus on health and community, combined with a love for racket sports, as key factors driving this decision. The first Picklr facility in Japan is set to open in the Tokyo metro area, with additional locations planned across the country. These facilities will be situated in retail, office, and light-industrial buildings, catering to a diverse range of pickleball enthusiasts in Japan.
The Future of Pickleball
Despite the rapid growth of pickleball, Barragan remains confident in the sustained interest in the sport. With over 220 leads coming in monthly, including international inquiries, there seems to be no slowdown in sight. The professional pickleball leagues are also eyeing international expansion, with plans to host events in Australia, India, Canada, Asia, and Europe. Barragan believes that the pickleball craze is spreading globally, mirroring the excitement that fueled The Picklr’s inception four years ago. As the sport continues to gain momentum worldwide, the future looks bright for pickleball enthusiasts everywhere.
