Picklr launches its first Australian club in Cronulla, aiming to open 50 locations across ANZ in the coming years, driven by growing interest in pickleball.
Picklr, the world's largest indoor pickleball network, is marking its entry into the Australian market with a new flagship club located in Cronulla, Sydney. This launch, which took place on August 17, 2026, is part of a larger strategy to roll out up to 50 specialized facilities across Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) within the next five to seven years.
The Cronulla facility boasts 11 indoor courts and provides a platform for local players to embrace the rapidly growing sport of pickleball. The official grand opening is set for August 29, featuring a free community day aimed at introducing more people to the game.
Expansive Growth Plans
As the first of many venues in a planned network, the Cronulla location serves both as a flagship and a model for future openings. Robert Pistilli, the CEO of Picklr ANZ, highlighted the ambitious goal of establishing 50 clubs throughout the ANZ region, stating that a second facility in Brookvale, which will cater to the Manly and Warringah areas, is already in the pipeline.
Pistilli emphasized the importance of community engagement, noting, “The positive reception in the community has been overwhelming, and we are excited to help grow the local pickleball community.” This sentiment reflects not only an enthusiasm for the sport but also a recognition of the social and health benefits that come from participation.
Franchise Model Focused on Local Entrepreneurs
To support rapid expansion, Picklr is deploying a franchise model that empowers local entrepreneurs to become part of this growing network. Pistilli explained, “We support local entrepreneurs who want to make pickleball their career. Ultimately, our aim is to build communities across ANZ for all folks to enjoy, young and old.” This collaborative approach not only helps ensure the clubs are tailored to local needs but also fosters a sense of ownership and investment in the sport.
The franchise initiative will initially focus on urban areas with strong sports and recreational infrastructure, such as Sydney’s Northern Beaches, inner west, and eastern suburbs, as well as Brisbane. Pistilli intends to leverage lessons learned from the Cronulla location to refine future openings, ensuring top-tier amenities and professional-grade court surfaces.
Pickleball's Growing Popularity
Pickleball's surge in popularity has been noteworthy, especially in the United States, where it has gained significant traction over the past five years. In Australia, the latest AusPlay survey reported that over 155,000 Australians are actively participating in the sport, signifying its transition from a niche activity to a mainstream pastime.
Pistilli attributes this growth to a desire for community connection, coupled with the enjoyment of physical activity. “In Australia, there has been a void of truly premium indoor pickleball facilities that promote both first-class competition and an enjoyable social setting. At Picklr, we are filling that void,” he added.
Commitment to Quality and Community Experience
Emphasizing quality, Pistilli expressed that the success of Picklr will not be measured solely by the number of clubs opened, but by the sustained commitment to providing high-quality facilities across the network. “So long as we stay focused on delivering a first-class experience to our members, the rest will work itself out,” he stated.
Alongside this community-focused mission, the Picklr brand has been recognized for its influence in promoting wellness. In April 2026, TIME named the company as one of the ten most influential wellness companies, underscoring the trend’s potential to not only increase physical activity but also enhance social interaction among players.
What's Next for Picklr?
With more than 500 clubs already operating across North America, Picklr is well-positioned to replicate its success in Australia. The forthcoming venues will serve diverse demographics, from seasoned athletes to families looking for fun recreational activities.
Interest in pickleball continues to grow, and with Picklr's strategic franchise approach, the company appears poised to lead this burgeoning market in the ANZ region. By prioritizing community engagement and high-quality experiences, Picklr is set to build a loyal customer base and establish itself as a central player in Australia’s sporting landscape.
As the company prepares for its next step in Manly and beyond, stakeholders and potential franchisees should keep an eye on how the brand adapts and thrives in this exciting new venture.
