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A ShopRite-anchored retail center in Morris County will add another big draw, with plans for the latest PB (973) Pickleball facility.

RIPCO Real Estate announced the indoor pickleball club signed a 15,000-square-foot lease at the ShopRite Shopping Center in Flanders Jan. 27.

The club is expected to join the lineup this summer at the 73,000-square-foot neighborhood retail center at 90 Bartley Road.

RIPCO Real Estate Executive Vice President Curtis Nassau and Executive Managing Director Matt Grundy exclusively represented the landlord in the transaction. Newmark Associates Managing Director Helene Elbaum represented the tenant.

Grundy said the team is thrilled to welcome PB (973). “Their presence alongside ShopRite creates a strong co-tenancy that will drive traffic for both businesses. Together, they provide a valuable amenity for the community and enhance the overall shopping experience.”

RIPCO Real Estate noted it expects the indoor pickleball facility to increase visits to the property. Situated just of Route 206, the space offers accessibility and visibility.

The latest lease brings the property to full occupancy, according to a spokesperson for RIPCO Real Estate.

A big dill

“We’re leasing a lot of retail space to pickleball these days and see the sport’s long-term potential,” said Nassau. “It’s the fastest-growing sport in America, appealing to all ages. It’s easy to learn, fun to play and watch, covered by ESPN, and there’s even discussion of it becoming an Olympic sport.”

According to Statista, pickleball is showing explosive growth across the U.S. with participation reaching 13.6 million individuals in 2023. The figure marks a more than three-fold increase since 2020, when participation in the sport jumped 21%.

Across the Garden State, a number of indoor and outdoor pickleball options have made recent debuts, including Jersey Pickleball Club at Bell Works in Holmdel, The Picklr in East Brunswick and Jersey City’s first indoor pickleball club.