SM Active Hub, the sports and recreation arm of SM Prime Holdings, now operates 86 pickleball courts nationwide, according to a report by Philstar.com . The milestone positions the company as the largest operator of pickleball facilities in the country, reflecting the sport's surging popularity among Filipinos.
The expansion spans SM malls and lifestyle centers across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, making the sport accessible to a wider audience. Pickleball, a paddle sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has seen a spike in participation since the pandemic, with SM Active Hub accelerating court construction to meet demand.
Industry analysts note that the rapid growth of pickleball facilities aligns with a broader trend of active lifestyle investments by mall operators. SM Active Hub's 86-court network provides a significant revenue stream through court rentals, lessons, and events, while driving foot traffic to SM retail locations.