Malls Transforming into Indoor Pickleball Venues (And Our Favorite Vegas Courts)
Malls, once a vibrant hub for teenagers, are facing a decline in their appeal among the younger generation. However, an unexpected solution may lie in targeting a different demographic—the aging mallrats of the ’80s and ’90s. The idea is to repurpose malls into indoor pickleball venues, creating a unique and nostalgic experience that could revive these retail spaces.
This innovative trend is already taking shape in cities across America, where malls are transforming into indoor pickleball centers. Rather than utilizing the smaller units once occupied by bookstores and clothing stores like Waldenbooks, Wet Seal, and Sam Goody, the focus is on the larger, abandoned mall hubs. These spaces, previously occupied by department stores like Sears, Macy’s, and Bed Bath & Beyond, offer ample room for pickleball courts.
According to CNN, this concept has already been implemented in approximately a dozen locations and has the potential to become a nationwide trend. Both established pickleball chains and smaller regional clubs are seizing the opportunity to occupy these mall spaces, recognizing the growing popularity of the sport and the need for indoor playing facilities.
The convergence of factors makes this trend a logical move. Pickleball, a paddle sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is experiencing remarkable growth, outpacing the availability of outdoor courts in many areas. Simultaneously, the rise of online shopping has made it increasingly challenging to fill large retail spaces. Converting malls into pickleball venues addresses both these concerns, offering a recreational outlet for enthusiasts and a viable use for underutilized mall spaces.
Malls Transforming into Indoor Pickleball Venues
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