Empty Malls Transforming into Thriving Pickleball Courts: Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., is helping to revitalize struggling shopping malls. With many malls facing challenges from online shopping, empty storefronts are being repurposed into pickleball courts, bringing people back into these spaces.
The Rise of Pickleball and Its Appeal
Pickleball, a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has exploded in popularity. From 2019 to 2022, participation grew by 160%, reaching about 9 million players. The sport’s accessibility — with smaller courts, lighter equipment, and easier gameplay — has contributed to its success, especially among families and older adults.
Pickleball Finds a Home in Malls
The trend started at Arizona Mills Mall in Tempe, Arizona, with the opening of the “Pickle Mall.” Simon Properties partnered with local entrepreneurs to transform vacant retail space into an indoor pickleball facility.
This new concept has proven effective in increasing mall foot traffic, as people come to play pickleball and are more likely to shop or dine while there.
Combining Sports with Retail
For struggling malls, adding pickleball courts diversifies the shopping experience and boosts visits to nearby stores. At the Pickle Mall, the goal is to create a “trickle-down” effect — where the sport’s popularity brings more people into the mall, benefiting all businesses.
Pickleball’s broad demographic appeal, spanning from young players to older adults, creates a welcoming space for families and groups, increasing the overall mall experience.
A Nationwide Trend
After the success of the Pickle Mall in Arizona, the concept is expanding. Other malls across the U.S. are looking to integrate pickleball courts into their vacant spaces. This innovative combination of sports and retail is helping malls stay relevant, even as traditional retail struggles to keep up with the rise of e-commerce.
Future Impact on Malls
The success of pickleball in repurposing empty mall spaces offers a glimpse into the future of retail. As more malls face the decline of traditional retail, adding experiences like pickleball could help them remain vital community hubs. This trend reflects the evolving nature of retail, where flexibility and creativity will determine success.
For pickleball players, it’s an opportunity to enjoy a social, active sport. For malls, it’s a chance to stay afloat in a changing retail landscape. As pickleball continues to rise, it may hold the key to a bright future for America’s malls.
News in Brief: Empty Malls Transforming into Thriving Pickleball Courts
Pickleball is helping revitalize struggling shopping malls across the U.S. by repurposing empty storefronts into indoor pickleball courts. The sport’s growing popularity, particularly among families and older adults, has brought people back to malls like Arizona Mills in Tempe, where the concept started.
As more malls follow suit, pickleball courts are boosting foot traffic, encouraging shopping and dining. This trend may shape the future of retail, offering a creative solution to the decline of traditional shopping spaces.
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