From Grocery Aisles to Pickleball Courts: The Revival of Vacant Albertsons
In a unique twist of repurposing vacant spaces, Dallas entrepreneur Dan Jenkins is bringing the Chandler, Arizona-based franchise, Pickleball Kingdom, to various locales across North Texas including Plano, Keller, Grapevine, Prosper, and Flower Mound. With plans to establish some of the largest pickleball facilities in the nation, Jenkins eyes the transformation of a former Albertsons grocery store into a bustling arena for pickleball enthusiasts. The Plano facility, set to open in January 2024, is envisioned to feature 15 pickleball courts within a sprawling 40,000 square foot space, boasting not just sporting arenas but also a food and beverage cafe, an internet cafe, and spaces for hosting pickleball classes and corporate events.
Dubbed as "Papa Pickle," Jenkins' affinity for pickleball isn't a newfound love. His tryst with the sport dates back to his days as a counselor at a summer camp near where pickleball was born—Bainbridge Island, Washington. The sport's social, athletic, and inclusive nature enamored him, pushing him to foster great indoor experiences for others who wish to indulge in it. The leap from being a real estate developer to spearheading the establishment of indoor pickleball courts signifies not just a personal passion but a keen eye on the burgeoning demand for indoor courts in North Texas. His venture also reflects a broader trend where entrepreneurs are finding innovative means to fill the gaping void left by vacant retail spaces.
Jenkins' venture isn't just a standalone story of passion meeting opportunity, but reflects a burgeoning trend of repurposing vacant retail spaces into recreational venues. Amidst a backdrop where the sport's popularity is skyrocketing — showcased by the Pickleball National Championships being hosted in the D-FW area with over 3,500 players participating — the move to convert unused spaces into pickleball courts encapsulates a wise blend of serving community needs, fostering social interactions, and smart urban redevelopment. As Pickleball Kingdom prepares to serve its first match in North Texas, it sets a compelling precedent for other communities to follow suit, revitalizing vacant spaces while promoting a sport that resonates with a wide demographic.
