As the sole owner of the Major League Pickleball (MLP) team, the St. Louis Shock, Chaifetz Group (CG) has already established a solid presence in the sport.

The Shock currently leads the MLP standings, boasting 38 points and an impressive 14-4 record. Beyond their pickleball team ownership, CG also holds interests in several major pickleball organizations, including the United Pickleball Association (UPA), Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), and the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating System (DUPR).

Today, it has announced another strategic investment in pickleball. This one is in The Picklr, North America’s fastest-growing indoor pickleball franchise.

The Picklr: Setting New Standards for Indoor Pickleball

The Picklr is renowned for its state-of-the-art indoor pickleball facilities, offering top-tier playing environments for players of all skill levels. As the fastest-growing pickleball franchise in the world, The Picklr currently operates 16 clubs across the U.S., with plans to expand to 20 by the end of 2024 and over 100 by 2025.

The Picklr is recognized for its innovative approach. It blends modern design, cutting-edge technology, and a fun atmosphere to deliver the best pickleball experience. With more than 350 franchises sold nationwide, The Picklr has quickly become North America's largest indoor pickleball franchise.

Indoor Pickleball Facility Franchise The Picklr Hits $59 Million Valuation

As pickleball continues to surge in popularity, The Picklr has achieved a $59 million valuation. It aims to expand to over 32 states and 1,080 pro-style indoor courts by 2025.

The Dink PickleballJason Flamm

Strategic Partnership with the St. Louis Shock

As part of this investment, The Picklr will collaborate with the St. Louis Shock on various brand awareness campaigns. The Shock, a flagship team in the Major League Pickleball franchise, will feature The Picklr on social media, team uniforms, and other marketing efforts.

In return, The Picklr will designate the Shock as its “Official MLP Team Partner.”

An Exclusive Look Behind the Scenes of the St. Louis Shock, One of MLPs Elite Franchises

The Dink recently got a behind-the-scenes look at the St. Louis Shock, a Major League Pickleball Franchise setting the standard for excellence and first-class experiences in the sport.

The Dink PickleballJason Flamm

This collaboration brings together two leading forces in pickleball to promote the sport and enhance the overall experience for players and fans.

Leadership and Vision for Growth

The strategic partnership extends beyond marketing, with Richard Chaifetz, Chairman of Chaifetz Group and the STL Shock, and Ross Chaifetz, Owner and General Manager of the Shock, joining The Picklr’s Board of Directors.

Their expertise and vision for the sport, paired with The Picklr’s leadership under CEO Jorge Barragan, will help drive the franchise’s continued growth and success.

“We are thrilled to welcome Chaifetz Group and the St. Louis Shock to The Picklr family,” said Barragan. “Their passion for pickleball and experience across a broad range of professional sports assets will be instrumental as we continue to redefine the world’s best pickleball experience.”

The Future of Pickleball

Ross Chaifetz emphasized the importance of facility access in the sport’s growth, stating:

“Our investment in Picklr reflects our belief that the company is providing the highest-quality, most unique player experience in the sport. The Picklr’s facilities are world-class, and their rapid growth sets them apart from other providers.”

With this partnership, Chaifetz Group and The Picklr aim to expand access to premium pickleball facilities, ensuring that players across the U.S. can enjoy the best pickleball experience possible.