The Picklr’s Canadian Expansion: The Picklr, recognized as the fastest-growing indoor pickleball franchise in North America, has officially announced its international expansion into Canada. This move, in partnership with Winnipeg-based TPC Development Corporation (TPC), aims to establish over 65 indoor pickleball clubs across the country.
Jonathan Fornaci, president and COO of The Picklr, shared the enthusiasm behind the expansion:
“With more than 400 Picklr locations already sold across nearly every state in the U.S., and with the sport’s popularity continuing to explode on both sides of the border, expanding to Canada was a no-brainer.” – (Jonathan Fornaci)
Fornaci emphasized that TPC’s experienced leadership and insight into Canada’s accelerating adoption of pickleball would ensure the franchise’s success in the new market.
“Partnering with TPC brings a wealth of experience to the table. Led by a proven executive team, TPC recognized the adoption rate of pickleball in Canada was approaching the same accelerated trajectory as in the US. We are thrilled that Canadian players of all ages will soon benefit from the industry-leading premier indoor pickleball playing experience.” – (Jonathan Fornaci)
Pickleball’s Global Rise
According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), pickleball has claimed the title of the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for three consecutive years, boasting nearly 40 million participants.
While Canadian participation lags slightly behind, the nation’s estimated two million active players are steadily increasing, with trends closely mirroring those seen in the U.S. Additionally, the sport’s appeal to younger demographics is evident, as nearly 30 percent of players now fall into the 18-34 age bracket.
Major Developments Underway
The Picklr’s first Canadian facility is slated to open in 2025, marking the beginning of an ambitious five-year plan to build more than 500 courts across 65 locations. These facilities will occupy over two million square feet of light industrial and retail space nationwide. TPC CEO Bernie Plett highlighted the franchise’s competitive edge.
“The Picklr has a clear first-mover advantage in Canada’s rapidly growing pickleball market.” – (Bernie Plett)
TPC holds exclusive rights to develop and operate Picklr locations coast-to-coast, excluding Quebec, with plans to establish clubs in provinces such as British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Manitoba.
A Proven Model for Success
Each Picklr Club is designed with 8 to 14 indoor courts, depending on local demographics and real estate availability. The franchise model focuses on communities with populations exceeding 100,000 and meeting specific income thresholds. This approach creates significant opportunities for sub-franchisees in over 50 Canadian cities.
The Picklr’s partnership with commercial real estate leaders like Colliers International and JLL shows its commitment to premium facilities. Chris Walker, Chief Development Officer of Picklr Inc., noted the importance of these collaborations.
“Picklr Franchisees receive support identifying, leasing and constructing the finest indoor facilities on the market. Our proprietary location selection tools, construction experience and partnerships with industry leading commercial real estate partners Colliers International and JLL help unlock locations that others may not be able to access.” – (Chris Walker)
Looking Ahead
Canadian players can expect top-tier professional and amateur competitions hosted by The Picklr in collaboration with the Canadian National Pickleball League and events on the PPA Tour.
With plans for consistent, high-quality courts and an emphasis on community engagement, The Picklr’s expansion into Canada promises to set new standards for the sport.
News in Brief: The Picklr’s Canadian Expansion
The Picklr, North America’s fastest-growing indoor pickleball franchise, is expanding into Canada, partnering with Winnipeg’s TPC Development Corporation. Over the next five years, the franchise plans to open 65 clubs nationwide, providing over 500 courts in cities across the country. This expansion capitalizes on pickleball’s rapid growth, with two million active players in Canada and rising.
The Picklr’s facilities will support casual and competitive play, hosting events in collaboration with the Canadian National Pickleball League and PPA Tour. The first club is set to open in 2025, bringing premier pickleball experiences to Canadian communities.
Readers Queries
- What does pickleball do with pickles?
In the summer of 1965, pickleball was founded by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Within days, Joan Pritchard had come up with the name “pickle ball”—a reference to the thrown-together leftover non-starters in the “pickle boat” of crew races.
2. Why is pickleball gaining in popularity so quickly?
One of the reasons pickleball has become so popular is because (almost) anyone can play. You will see players out on the court from 5 years old to 90+ years old. Compared to other sports, there is a low (but never zero) chance of injury, a low cost to entry, and it is not too physically strenuous
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