Slazenger Padel has launched its new club in Blackburn, marking the start of ambitious growth in the UK. The company plans to open at least 10 more sites in 2026, adding around 150 courts nationwide. This move builds on recent openings and includes sponsorship of a major international tournament.
Slazenger, part of the Frasers Group, is expanding its presence in padel, a rapidly growing racquet sport. The brand recently opened its latest facility in Blackburn, Lancashire, on Haslingden Road. Spanning 30,000 square feet, the club features nine premium panoramic padel courts, expert coaching for all levels, a members' bar, social spaces, a pro shop, equipment hire, and two dedicated pickleball courts. This setup emphasizes padel's social appeal, encouraging players to linger after matches.
The Blackburn opening follows the launch of Slazenger Padel Leeds in October 2024 and Swindon in December 2025. Strong demand for quality padel facilities has driven the company's decision to accelerate expansion. In 2026, Slazenger aims to introduce a minimum of 10 new clubs across the UK, bringing the total to approximately 150 courts. Each venue will offer premium playing surfaces, proper lighting, smart changing rooms, and welcoming bars, drawing on the brand's 140-year heritage in racquet sports.
A spokesperson for Slazenger Padel stated: “Padel has experienced an incredible trajectory over the past few years. It’s a highly social sport and a relevant younger brother of tennis, appealing to a wide array of demographics making it a natural fit for our audiences. Slazenger has long been synonymous with elite racquet sports, and building on its heritage in tennis, padel represents a powerful next chapter for the brand. Through Slazenger Padel, we believe we can grow Slazenger’s brand identity and improve the experience we deliver across the UK.”
Complementing domestic efforts, Slazenger has become the official ball sponsor for the Hexagon Cup 2026 in Madrid, one of padel's premier global events. This strategy aligns with Frasers Group's focus on sport, promoting participation and community through innovative facilities. The clubs are designed as hubs for playing, training, relaxing, and socializing, potentially establishing Slazenger as a key name in UK padel.