As we scan the expanding universe of pickleball club development, we’re seeing what can be described as a ‘flight to quality’. This concept, used in the financial world, refers to a sudden and overwhelming market surge towards quality investments.
The majority of pickleball players across the country have primarily experienced a mediocre to low-quality pickleball experience. It is a testimony to the appeal of the game that it has grown despite this. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve loved my drop-in experience at the community center with the temporary nets, the taped lines over the basketball court and the random chaotic court rotation process……but now that I’ve visited some dedicated clubs I can see the appeal of where this is all going. And by the way, I’d be willing to pay.
The quality experience at a pickleball club
Court, net and lighting quality are only one small piece of the puzzle here. ‘Quality’ in the case of a pickleball club refers to the entire experience of the player from the very first interaction (usually online), through payment, booking , court play, amenities and maybe most important, the programming options available and the nurturing of a true community.
Any business plan for a pickleball club needs to thoroughly address the quality of the player experience as a key strategy. This has special implications for staffing and for marketing which will be key revenue drivers in any of the next generation of pickleball clubs. A few areas to consider:
- The clarity and flexibility of your membership and pricing model
- The simplicity and ease of booking and payment
- Creative programming appealing to all levels of player
- Community development initiatives
Pickleball Business Advisors is brothers Bill and John Pryor. We provide a variety of consulting services based on extensive experience in fitness business development, and research into the fast growing pickleball marketplace. To initiate a feasibility assessment for your pickleball club, or for other consulting, contact us so we can learn about your project.
