Padel courts in warehouses: a complete guide to the new trend
Growing Demand for Padel Courts in Warehouses: A Trend Reshaping the Use of Industrial Spaces
In recent months, there has been a noticeable increase in inquiries about installing padel courts and other indoor sports facilities within industrial and logistics halls. This emerging trend is visible across the market and reflects a broader transformation in how entrepreneurs, investors, and property owners approach industrial environments.
Whereas entrepreneurs previously focused primarily on retail spaces or standalone sports complexes, they are now actively considering warehouse halls. The main reasons are flexible layouts, high ceiling clearance, typically more favorable rent compared to retail parks, and excellent transport accessibility. The rising popularity of city logistics projects also brings more modern environments attractive not only for sports operations but also for employees of companies based in these areas.
Why Padel Makes Sense in Warehouses
- Flexible Layouts and Ideal Technical Specifications
Padel requires specific spatial conditions—especially ceiling heights of about 7–10 meters and open-plan layouts. Most modern industrial halls meet or exceed these requirements. - Rapid Adaptation and Lower Initial Investment
Converting an existing hall is generally much less demanding financially and time-wise than constructing a new sports facility. There is usually no need for complex land-use permits or lengthy administrative processes associated with new builds. - Prime Locations and Accessibility
Logistics parks benefit from outstanding connections to major transport routes, often including public transportation access. These features are attractive for sports clubs, recreational players, and tenants alike. Operations are often less restricted than in retail settings, for example regarding noise or opening hours.
Limitations and Factors to Consider
- Technical Modifications and Above-Standard Investments
Floors, lighting, heating, acoustics, amenities, and safety features must be tailored for sports use. Many facilities require Above Standard Tenant Improvements (ASTI), partly financed by the tenant. - Administrative Processes and Change of Use
The hall must be officially approved for sports usage, requiring building permits and compliance with safety regulations. This can extend the project launch timeline. - Competition from Traditional Industrial Tenants
In attractive locations, demand for logistics space remains strong. Landlords often prefer long-term industrial tenants who provide stable income, and not every developer is ready to welcome sports operators. - Safety and Operational Logic
Public movement within an industrial park increases safety demands. Pedestrian zones, parking, and coordination with logistics operations must be addressed. - Suitability of Location
Not all parks are ideal for sports—each project needs to be assessed individually based on technical parameters, traffic situation, and operational regime.
What This Trend Means for the Commercial Real Estate Market
The demand for industrial spaces is diversifying, and industrial properties are no longer seen solely as places for storage or manufacturing. Modern logistics parks are turning into multifunctional platforms capable of supporting new business types—from e-commerce startups, retail units, nurseries, doctors’ offices, and cafes, to sports centers.
Sports facility operators are gaining access to segments that were virtually inaccessible just a few years ago. Property owners are discovering that sports can be a valuable addition to their portfolio—sometimes providing extra value for employees within the business park.
Expert Insight
“In the past six months, we've seen a significant rise in inquiries about building padel courts or other indoor sports facilities in industrial halls. Not all developers are yet open to introducing leisure activities into logistics parks, yet modern warehouses offer generous spaces, excellent accessibility, and extensive customization options. I believe the use of logistics parks will increasingly diversify in the coming years,” says Dina Macků, Industrial Consultant, iO Partners.
Did this article catch your attention? Contact our expert!
