active-net Padel charts sector growth

active-net Padel is establishing itself as one of the UK padel market’s most important B2B events. The single day event brings operators and suppliers together for insightful panel discussions and focused, pre-arranged one-to-one meetings

The latest edition of active-net Padel took place on 12th May 2026 at Eastwood Hall, Nottingham, bringing together more than 70 delegates from across the rapidly expanding padel sector. The one-day event welcomed a diverse mix of court owners and operators, clubs, representative bodies and partner suppliers, all coming together to share insight, explore opportunities and strengthen connections within one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports markets.

As with all active-net events, the format combined education, networking and structured business meetings, creating an environment where operators and suppliers could engage in meaningful conversations designed to support long-term growth and collaboration across the sector.

Expert insights on the future of padel

The day opened with a lively and thought-provoking panel discussion chaired by David Monkhouse, Director of Active Insight, focused on the question “How is padel changing to sustain participation levels?” Joining David on the panel were Dave Wright, sector entrepreneur and founder of MyZone, Jo Patterson from Connect 2 Padel, and Paul Bennett from the LTA. Together, the panel explored the evolution of the sport, discussing how operators and governing bodies can continue to build momentum while ensuring long-term participation and engagement.

With padel experiencing significant growth across the UK, the session highlighted the importance of accessibility, community engagement and sustainable business models in supporting the next stage of development for the sport. Delegates were given valuable insight into both the challenges and opportunities emerging within the marketplace as demand for courts and facilities continues to rise.

Data, innovation and entrepreneurship

Following the opening panel, delegates had the opportunity to choose between two focused workshop sessions, each designed to provide practical insight into different aspects of the Padel landscape.

The first session, “The Data and Insight Behind the Opportunity,” was chaired by Julie Allen from Active Insight and featured contributions from Paul Bennett (LTA) and Jethro Binns (LevelTech). This workshop explored participation trends, market insight and how data can help operators make informed decisions around investment, programming and facility growth.

Running alongside this was “Padel Entrepreneurs – Building a Business in Padel,” featuring Chloe Hughes (Name That Ball), Dave Wright, and Steve McClory (Equinox Padel Club). The session focused on entrepreneurial journeys within the sector, sharing experiences around launching businesses, building communities and creating engaging customer experiences in an increasingly competitive market.

Together, the workshops offered delegates a blend of strategic thinking and real-world experience, helping attendees better understand how to navigate and capitalise on the continued expansion of padel in the UK.

Meaningful networking and business connections

A key feature of the active-net series is its structured one-to-one meeting programme, and the Nottingham event once again delivered valuable opportunities for attendees to connect directly with relevant businesses and decision-makers.

Throughout the afternoon, operators and partner suppliers took part in a series of 12 pre-arranged meetings, each lasting 20 minutes. These sessions enabled delegates to explore new partnerships, discuss operational challenges and identify solutions that could add real value to their organisations.

Supplier categories included kit providers, insurers, and specialist service providers, ensuring attendees could engage with businesses capable of supporting every aspect of their padel operations.

Among the organisations represented at the event were HireBOB, Active Insight, Baseline, 4 Leisure Recruitment and Risk HQ, alongside operators including The Dome, Active Wirral, LLeisure and Ramsay’s. The combination of established industry names and emerging businesses created a dynamic atmosphere throughout the day, with conversations focused on innovation, collaboration and future growth.

Looking ahead to 2027

The event concluded with high tea and informal networking, giving delegates the chance to continue conversations and strengthen relationships in a more relaxed setting.

Following another successful event, plans are already underway for the next edition of active-net Padel, which will take place on 19th May 2027 in Northampton.

In an exciting development for the series, the 2027 event will, for the first time, incorporate on-court activity, including one hour of expert coaching and two hours of free padel play. The expanded format will create even greater opportunities for active networking, kit trials and some friendly competition between delegates.

As the padel sector continues to evolve at pace, active-net Padel is rapidly establishing itself as an essential event for operators, suppliers and stakeholders looking to shape the future of the sport in the UK.

To find out more about next year’s event, and book, please visit [https://active-insight.org/events/active-net-padel/](https://active-insight.org/events/active-net-padel)