Pickleball Business Plan [Sample Template]

A pickleball business refers to a business enterprise that is centered around the sport of pickleball. Pickleball is a popular paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is played with a solid paddle and a perforated plastic ball on a modified tennis court.

The pickleball business primarily belongs to the sports and recreation industry. It falls under the broader category of racket sports, which includes sports like tennis, badminton, squash, and table tennis. Pickleball has gained significant popularity in recent years, leading to the emergence of businesses that cater specifically to this sport.

Steps to Write a Pickleball Business Plan

1. Executive Summary

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. is a premier pickleball facility dedicated to providing a top-notch experience for pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels. Located in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California, our center aims to become the go-to destination for pickleball players, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of services.

Our facility features 5 indoor and outdoor pickleball courts built to the highest standards, ensuring a comfortable and safe playing environment. We have invested in premium quality equipment, including paddles, balls, nets, and other accessories, to enhance the players’ experience and elevate their performance.

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. is not just a place to play pickleball; it is a destination that offers a comprehensive pickleball experience.

Our facility boasts well-appointed amenities, including comfortable seating areas, locker rooms, a pro shop, and a social lounge where players can relax, socialize, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Derrick Princeville is the founder and CEO of Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc.

2. Company Profile

a. Our Products and Services

At Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc., we understand the importance of community and fostering a sense of camaraderie among players.

Our center offers various programs and activities, such as instructional lessons, coaching services, leagues, and tournaments, catering to players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the game or a seasoned player seeking competitive play, we have something for everyone.

We take pride in our team of experienced and certified instructors who are passionate about pickleball. They provide personalized coaching sessions, group lessons, and clinics to help players improve their skills, strategy, and overall game.

Our instructors also organize engaging events and tournaments, bringing together the pickleball community and creating memorable experiences.

b. Nature of the Business

Our pickleball center will operate the B2C – Business to consumer business model. We will offer our services directly to the end user without any middleman arrangement.

c. The Industry

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will operate in the sports and recreation industry.

d. Mission Statement

At Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc., our mission is to provide pickleball enthusiasts with an exceptional and inclusive playing experience. We are dedicated to promoting the growth of pickleball, fostering a sense of community, and helping players of all skill levels reach their full potential.

Through state-of-the-art facilities, expert coaching, engaging events, and a welcoming environment, we strive to be the premier destination for pickleball in Los Angeles, California, and beyond.

e. Vision Statement

Our vision at Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. is to be recognized as the leading pickleball center, setting the standard for excellence in the industry. We aim to create a vibrant and thriving pickleball community by offering top-quality facilities, innovative programs, and exceptional customer service.

f. Our Tagline (Slogan)

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. – “Unleash Your Pickleball Passion!”

g. Legal Structure of the Business (LLC, C Corp, S Corp, LLP)

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will be formed as a Limited Liability Company, LLC.

h. Our Organizational Structure

• Chief Operating Officer (Owner)
• Facility Manager
• Accountant/Cashier
• Marketing and Sales Officer
• Coach/Instructor/Assistant (5)
• Customer Care Executive/Front Desk Officer
• Cleaners
• Security Officers.

i. Ownership/Shareholder Structure and Board Members

• Derrick Princeville (Owner and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer) 51 Percent Shares
• Emmanuel Joseph (Board Member) 19 Percent Shares
• Rodeo Boston (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Jaden Norman (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Meg McCain (Board Member and Sectary) 10 Percent Shares.

3. SWOT Analysis

a. Strength

• Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center boasts modern and well-equipped indoor and outdoor courts, providing a comfortable and safe playing environment for pickleball enthusiasts.
• The center is staffed with experienced and certified instructors who offer personalized coaching sessions and instructional programs to help players improve their skills and enhance their game.
• Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center offers a wide range of services, including lessons, coaching, leagues, tournaments, and pickleball travel packages, catering to players of all ages and skill levels.
• The center fosters a sense of community among pickleball players, providing opportunities for socialization, networking, and connecting with fellow enthusiasts.
• Situated in a vibrant city, the center enjoys a prime location that is easily accessible, attracting a diverse range of local and regional pickleball players.

b. Weakness

• As a relatively new pickleball center, Derrick Princeville® may face challenges in terms of building brand recognition and awareness among the target audience.
• Maintaining state-of-the-art facilities and offering comprehensive services can incur high operational costs, which need to be carefully managed to ensure profitability.
• The pickleball industry is experiencing significant growth, leading to increased competition. Derrick Princeville® must differentiate itself to stand out among other pickleball facilities and service providers in the market.

c. Opportunities

• Pickleball is gaining widespread popularity across various age groups, providing an opportunity for Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center to attract a larger customer base and expand its reach.
• Capitalizing on the trend of pickleball tourism, the center can attract visitors from different regions by offering travel packages and promoting itself as a destination for pickleball enthusiasts.
• Forming strategic partnerships with local businesses, hotels, and sports organizations, as well as securing sponsorships, can provide additional revenue streams and help increase brand visibility.

i. How Big is the Industry?

The sports and recreation industry that the pickleball business is a part of is a significant sector within the global economy. As a matter of fact, in 2019, a report by PwC estimated the global sports market to be worth around $488.5 billion.

ii. Is the Industry Growing or Declining?

The pickleball industry is experiencing significant growth rather than a decline. Over the past decade, pickleball has gained popularity among people of all ages, particularly in North America, and its growth has been remarkable.

The sport of pickleball is likely to continue its growth in popularity, with more individuals of all ages and skill levels taking up the sport. As awareness and accessibility improve, participation rates are expected to rise both domestically and internationally.

iii. What are the Future Trends in the Industry?

The pickleball industry may witness technological advancements to enhance the player experience and performance. This could include improvements in the paddle and ball design, court surfaces, training aids, and data-tracking technologies. Such innovations can further engage players and improve their skills and enjoyment of the game.

These future trends indicate a positive outlook for the pickleball industry, with continued growth, innovation, and increased participation expected in the years to come.

iv. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?

No, there are no niche ideas when it comes to the pickleball line of business. This is so because the pickleball business is a niche idea in the sports and recreation industry.

v. Can You Sell a Franchise of Your Business in the Future?

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. has plans to sell franchises in the nearest future and we will target major cities with growing working class and families in the United States of America.

d. Threats

• Economic downturns, changes in consumer spending habits, or fluctuations in disposable income could impact the demand for pickleball services and affect the center’s profitability.
• Shifts in consumer preferences towards other sports or recreational activities may pose a threat to the sustained growth of the pickleball industry.
• Compliance with local regulations, permits, and licenses, as well as any legal issues related to liability and safety, should be carefully managed to mitigate potential risks.

i. Who are the Major Competitors?

• Indian Wells Tennis Garden
• Bobby Riggs Tennis Club and Museum
• Pickleplex of Punta Gorda
• Naples Community Park
• The Villages Pickleball Club
• Chicken N Pickle
• Grand Canyon State Games
• Pickleball Station
• Bobby Jones Pickleball Club
• Bobby’s Pickleball Club
• Chicken N Pickle
• The Plaza Hotel & Casino
• Pickleball Central
• The Ogden
• Palm Creek Golf & RV Resort
• Buckeye Recreational Center
• Santa Cruz Pickleball Club
• Sun City Hilton Head
• The Pit
• The Pickledome.

ii. Is There a Franchise for Pickleball Business?

Yes, there are franchise opportunities for the pickleball business, and here are some of them;

• Pickleball Xpress
• Pickleball Academy
• Pickleball Clubhouse
• Pickleball Pro Shop
• Pickleball League Network
• Pickleball Fitness Studio
• Pickleball Court Construction
• Pickleball Media Network.

iii. Are There Policies, Regulations, or Zoning Laws Affecting the Pickleball Business?

Yes, there are various policies, regulations, and zoning laws that can affect a pickleball business in the United States. Policies, regulations, and zoning laws can vary at the local, state, and federal levels in the United States.

Local zoning regulations may specify whether pickleball facilities are allowed in residential, commercial, or mixed-use zones. It’s important to review the zoning requirements and obtain the necessary permits and approvals for the construction or operation of pickleball courts or facilities.

Noise regulations can affect pickleball businesses, especially if the facilities are located in residential areas. Local ordinances may set limits on the permissible noise levels during specific hours of the day. Compliance with noise regulations may require implementing sound mitigation measures or setting specific operating hours for pickleball activities.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets accessibility standards for public accommodations, including sports facilities. Pickleball centers may need to comply with ADA guidelines to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

4. Marketing Plan

a. Who is Your Target Audience?

i. Age Range

Our target market falls between 12 years to 65+ years

ii. Level of Educational

We don’t have any basic educational qualifications for those who we are targeting; everyone who falls within our target age range is welcome to use our pickleball facility.

iii. Income Level

Anyone who can afford our membership fee will be welcome to make use of our pickleball facility.

iv. Ethnicity

There is no restriction when it comes to the ethnicity of the people we are looking forward to welcoming to our pickleball facility.

v. Language

There is no restriction when it comes to the language spoken by the people we are looking forward to welcoming to our pickleball facility.

vi. Geographical Location

Anybody from any geographical location will be welcome in our pickleball facility.

vii. Lifestyle

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will not restrict any patron from using our pickleball facility based on their lifestyle, culture, or race.

b. Advertising and Promotion Strategies

• Host Themed Events That Catch the Attention of Potential Clients.
• Tap Into Text Marketing.
• Use FOMO to Run Photo Promotions.
• Share Your Events in Local Groups and Pages.
• Turn Your Social Media Channels into a Resource
• Develop Your Business Directory Profiles
• Build Relationships with other indoor sports and recreational service providers and related organizations in our Area

i. Traditional Marketing Strategies

• Marketing through Direct Mail.
• Print Media Marketing – Newspapers & Magazines.
• Broadcast Marketing -Television & Radio Channels.
• OOH Marketing – Public Transit like Buses and Trains, Billboards, Street shows, and Cabs.
• Leverage direct sales, direct mail (postcards, brochures, letters, fliers), tradeshows, print advertising (magazines, newspapers, coupon books, billboards), referral (also known as word-of-mouth marketing), radio, and television.

ii. Digital Marketing Strategies

• Social Media Marketing Platforms.
• Influencer Marketing.
• Email Marketing.
• Content Marketing.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing.
• Affiliate Marketing
• Mobile Marketing.

iii. Social Media Marketing Plan

• Start using chatbots.
• Create a personalized experience for each of our clients.
• Create an efficient content marketing strategy.
• Create a community for our freelance marketers and influencers.
• Gear up our profiles with a diverse content strategy.
• Use brand advocates.
• Create profiles on relevant social media channels.
• Run cross-channel campaigns.

c. Pricing Strategy

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will adopt the following pricing strategies:

• Cost-Plus Pricing
• Value-Based Pricing
• Competitive Pricing
• Dynamic Pricing
• Bundle Pricing

Please note that our pricing strategy is based on a careful analysis of the costs and profitability of the business, as well as the needs and preferences of the target customer base.

5. Sales and Distribution Plan

a. Sales Channels

Our channel sales strategy will involve using partners and third parties—such as referral partners, affiliate partners, freelance marketers, and social media influencers to help refer clients to us.

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will also leverage the 4 Ps of marketing which is a place, price, product, and promotion. By carefully integrating all these marketing strategies into a marketing mix, we can have a visible, in-demand service that is competitively priced and promoted to our patients and donors.

b. Inventory Strategy

The fact that we will need pickleball supplies per time means that Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will operate an inventory strategy that is based on a day-to-day methodology to follow for ordering and maintaining items in our warehouse.

We will develop our strategy with the same thoroughness and attention to detail as we would if we were creating an overall strategy for the business. Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will make sure we work with “Just-in-time (JIT) inventory” – (JIT involves holding as little stock as possible, negating the costs and risks involved with keeping a large amount of stock on hand.)

c. Payment Options for Customers

Here are the payment options that Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will make available to her donors and contributors;

• Bank Transfers
• Credit or Debit Card
• Cash
• Checks
• Electronic Payment Systems such as PayPal or Venmo.

d. Return Policy, Incentives, and Guarantees

Return Policy: As a Pickleball Center, we will implement a return policy that allows customers to cancel their booking or reschedule for a future date if they are unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances. This can be communicated clearly on your website, social media pages, or booking confirmation email.

Additionally, we will also consider offering refunds or credits for canceled bookings, depending on our center’s policies at the moment.

Incentives: To encourage repeat business and positive customer reviews, we will offer various incentives to customers. We will offer loyalty programs where customers earn points for every visit and can redeem them for discounts or freebies.

We will also offer special discounts to customers who refer friends or family to our center. We will also offer promotions or themed events during holidays or special occasions, such as Halloween or Valentine’s Day.

Guarantees: As a Pickleball Center, we will guarantee the safety and quality of our services to our customers. We will do this by ensuring that all equipment is well-maintained and that all staff are trained in safety protocols and are available to assist customers as needed.

We will also offer a satisfaction guarantee where customers can provide feedback and request refunds or discounts if they are not satisfied with their experience.

e. Customer Support Strategy

Our customer support strategy will involve ensuring that clients have easy access to contact our pickleball business through multiple communication channels, such as email, phone, and social media. We will also make sure that all contact information is clearly displayed on the business’s website and promotional materials.

We will foster a culture of putting clients first, where staff are trained to listen actively and empathize with clients’ needs. We will encourage staff to go the extra mile to ensure clients feel valued and supported. We will implement a CRM system to manage client data, track appointments, and follow-up activities.

6. Operational Plan

Our operational plan will involve developing and marketing a range of pickleball programs and services that cater to clients with different needs, including children and people with disabilities, veterans, and professionals.

Overall, we plan to expand our revenue by 25 percent in the second year and the plan will include a marketing, sales, and operations component. The operations component of the plan would include attracting partnerships and referrals that will enable the firm to boost our service offerings and support revenue growth.

a. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Pickleball Center?

• Before opening the doors, staff at the center typically clean the facility, inspect the equipment, and make sure everything is in good condition for customers.
• Conducting pickleball sessions
• Throughout the day, staff members monitor customers and the facility to ensure that everyone is following safety protocols and that equipment is in good working condition. They may also restock supplies or perform minor maintenance tasks as needed.
• Staff members also answer questions from customers regarding the facility, booking inquiries, or general inquiries about the game.
• At the end of the day, staff members clean up the facility and prepare it for the next day of operations.

b. Production Process

There is no production process when it comes to a pickleball business.

c. Service Procedure

Once the center is open, staff members greet customers, check them in, and provide a brief orientation on safety procedures and the rules of the game. Staff members then assist customers in selecting their pickleball and accessories and provide instructions on proper throwing techniques.

Throughout the day, staff members monitor customers and the facility to ensure that everyone is following safety protocols and that equipment is in good working condition. They may also restock supplies or perform minor maintenance tasks as needed.

Staff members also answer questions from customers regarding the facility, booking inquiries, or general inquiries about the game.

d. The Supply Chain

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will establish a business relationship with wholesale supplies of pickleball supplies and merchandise.

e. Sources of Income

Basically, Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. makes money from;

• Booking fees
• Walk-in fees
• Private events such as corporate team building activities, birthday parties, or bachelor/bachelorette parties for which they charge a flat fee.
• Food and beverage sales
• Merchandise sales
• Memberships and loyalty programs
• Advertising and sponsorships.

7. Financial Plan

a. Amount Needed to Start Our Pickleball?

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. would need an estimate of $1.2 million to successfully set up our pickleball center in the United States of America. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all our staff for the first month of operation.

b. What are the Costs Involved?

• Business Registration Fees – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $7,300.
• Marketing, Branding, and Promotions – $5,000.
• Business Consultant Fee – $2,500.
• Insurance – $5,400.
• Rent/Lease – $550,000.
• Other start-up expenses include commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($2,800).
• Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $70,000
• start-up inventory – $85,000
• Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $4,750
• Equipment and maintenance – $250,000
• Website: $600
• Opening party: $3,000
• Miscellaneous: $2,000

c. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much Will It Cost?

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will not build a new facility for our pickleball center; we intend to start with a long-term lease and after 5 years, we will start the process of acquiring our own facility.

d. What are the Ongoing Expenses for Running a Pickleball Business?

• Rent or lease payments
• Utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and other utilities needed to operate the facility
• Equipment maintenance
• Insurance
• Staff salaries
• Marketing and advertising
• Supplies such as paddles, balls, nets, court accessories, and other supplies like cleaning materials, first aid kits, and office supplies
• Taxes and permits
• Credit card processing fees
• Renting additional equipment.

e. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner) – $55,000 per year
• Facility Manager – $40,000 per year
• Accountant/Cashier – $36,0000
• Marketing and Sales Officer – $35,000 per year
• Coach/Instructor/Assistant (5) – $35,000 per year
• Customer Care Executive/Front Desk Officer – $25,396 per year
• Cleaners – $22,000 per year
• Security Officers – $21,150 per year.

f. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Pickleball Business?

• Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
• Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
• Pitching our business idea and applying for business grants and seed funding from the government, donor organizations, and angel investors
• Source for soft loans from our family members and our friends.

8. Financial Projection

a. How Much Should You Charge for Your Product/Service?

• Drop-in/Open Play Sessions: The cost for drop-in sessions typically ranges from $3 to $10 per person, per session. We will also offer discounted rates for seniors, students, or off-peak hours.
• Membership or Monthly Passes: Membership fees can vary widely, ranging from $20 to $150 or more per month, depending on the facility and the benefits included.
• Lessons and Clinics: Lessons and clinics can range from $20 to $100 or more per hour, depending on the instructor’s expertise and the level of instruction provided.
• Tournaments and Events: Entry fees for local or regional tournaments can range from $20 to $100 or more per player, while larger national or international tournaments may have higher entry fees.

b. Sales Forecast?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $360,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $470,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $560,000

c. Estimated Profit You Will Make a Year?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): (20% of revenue generated)
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): (30% of revenue generated)
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): (35% of revenue generated)

d. Profit Margin of a Pickleball Product/Service

The ideal profit margin we hope to make at Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will be between 10 and 25 percent on service charges.

9. Growth Plan

a. How do you intend to grow and expand? By opening more retail outlets/offices or selling a franchise?

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. will grow our pickleball business by first opening other facilities in key cities in the United States of America within the first five years of establishing the organization and then will start selling franchises from the tenth year.

b. Where do you intend to expand to and why?

Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. plans to expand to

• Indian Wells, California
• Punta Gorda, Florida
• Naples, Florida
• Kansas City, Kansas
• Kent, Washington
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Casa Grande, Arizona
• Santa Cruz, California
• Bluffton, South Carolina
• Bonita Springs, Florida
• Greenville, South Carolina.

The reason we intend to expand to these locations is the fact that these cities have a promising market for pickleball centers and indoor sports entertainment centers generally.

10. Exit Plan

The founder of Derrick Princeville® Pickleball Center, Inc. intends to build a family business hence our exit plan will be family succession. For that reason, the founder Derrick Princeville is already grooming his son Denis Princeville to take over from him. Denis Princeville is at the moment being groomed to go through the company’s employment process without any bias.