By Joe James
What’s the story?
In a strategic move to enhance the pickleball experience, Dill Dinkers, an emerging pickleball facility franchise, has partnered with a leading retailer of pickleball equipment, Pickleball Central.
The collaboration aims to provide players of all levels with access to top-tier equipment and a welcoming community environment.
Dill Dinkers was founded in 2001 by Denise and Will Richards due to their love of the sport and their frustrations over the limited indoor court options in their area.
Will Richards, Founder and CEO of Dill Dinkers, said: “Dill Dinkers and Pickleball Central share a vision of making pickleball accessible for everyone.
“By partnering with one of the biggest names in the game, our players will gain unparalleled in-club access to expert-curated pickleball equipment and accessories, including the opportunity to demo the hottest paddles and apparel on the market – a benefit unmatched by traditional retail channels.”
Pickleball Central have been operating for nearly two decades and have recently shipped their one-millionth order. Their collaboration with Dill Dinkers marks an exciting partnership in the pickleball world.
Taylor Loomis, CEO of Pickleball Central, stated: “Our partnership with Dill Dinkers is a perfect match, they are leaders in indoor pickleball, making the sport accessible all year round.
“Together, we’re equipping players with the best products and ensuring that anyone stepping onto a Dill Dinkers court has access to everything they need to enjoy and excel at the game.”
The Recap
The partnership between Dill Dinkers and Pickleball Central brings several key benefits to the pickleball community.
Facilities of Dill Dinkers will now have pro shops powered by Pickleball Central, giving players access to a wide variety of pickleball products, including paddles of various weights, sizes and materials, as well as apparel and accessories.
With the opportunity to try out paddles and apparel in the pro shops before buying, the collaboration offers a fresh and unique benefit not found in many retail stores.
Dill Dinkers pride themselves on providing a welcoming environment with clinics, lessons, leagues, and friendly staff made to create a positive atmosphere for all players.
Not only does the partnership further the mission for players to have greater accessibility to the equipment they need, but it is also a great opportunity to gain a competitive advantage and additional revenue streams.
The PKLBull Verdict
The exciting announcement of Dill Dinkers and Pickleball Central teaming up is a huge win for the pickleball community.
By combining the facility know-how and expertise of Dill Dinkers, with the two decades worth of product knowledge of Pickleball Central, players will have access to high-quality equipment, in a welcoming environment, making the entire sport accessible to everyone.
For consumers, it is clearly ideal and inviting but as a business, it stands to be highly profitable. Denise and Will Richards will have new revenue streams whilst furthering their own brand for future members and investors.
Player experiences are set to be enhanced, the community will be bigger and stronger, and pickleball’s reputation will continue to be elevated.
By the end of January 2025, Dill Dinkers are set to complete a rapid expansion with 14 new locations across six states set to open.
This news is a huge boost for the growth of pickleball, both in person and online.