The acquisition integrates PIKKL’s specialized technology platform into a portfolio that already includes the Bantam, Tempest, and Honeyfoam brands. Paddletek, under the management of Thirty-5 Capital, intends to leverage this expanded footprint to accelerate innovation across its manufacturing lines. Founders Strommen and Martinson will remain with the group, focusing on future paddle engineering and performance development.
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Paddletek Acquires PIKKL and Signs Top Pickleball Talent
Chicago-based Paddletek Group has finalized the acquisition of performance paddle brand PIKKL while simultaneously securing four elite professional players. The move unites the technical expertise of PIKKL founders Mike Strommen and Dan Martinson with the competitive profile of siblings JW and Jorja Johnson, alongside Julie Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black.
For the Johnson siblings, the shift in sponsorship marks a strategic move to align their professional trajectory with a brand emphasizing high-level technical development. JW Johnson noted that his decision followed extensive testing of various market options, prioritizing equipment that directly supports competitive performance. The signing of the group, which also includes Julie Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black, consolidates a significant portion of top-tier pickleball talent under one corporate umbrella as the sport continues to scale globally.
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