The approval comes as the Boston Pickle Club continues to experience significant growth. In just two weeks, the club’s membership increased from 650 to 801, with co-owner Steve Hauck predicting further expansion.
“The overwhelming support and demand for our product is great,” Hauck told the board. “Today, two weeks later we have 801 [members] and we're creating a weakness at 900.”The Norwell Select Board has approved a liquor license for the Boston Pickle Club, a rapidly growing indoor pickleball facility. The decision allows the club to serve beer and wine, further expanding its offerings to members.
During the February 5 Select Board meeting, officials confirmed that there were no zoning restrictions preventing the club from obtaining a liquor license, clearing the way for approval.
The vote passed unanimously, officially granting the club the ability to serve alcohol.
Club representatives emphasized that the addition of beer and wine will not change the nature of the facility, which remains focused on pickleball.
“Like I said last time, this isn't going to turn the pickleball to a nightclub,” Select Board Member Peter Smellie said. “It's just going to get her have a drink before or after your thing. Or maybe a couple of you played really bad, but it's not going to turn this into a nightclub that Norwell needs to worry about.”
The approval comes as the Boston Pickle Club continues to experience significant growth. In just two weeks, the club’s membership increased from 650 to 801, with co-owner Steve Hauck predicting further expansion.
“The overwhelming support and demand for our product is great,” Hauck told the board. “Today, two weeks later we have 801 [members] and we're creating a weakness at 900.”
With pickleball’s rising popularity across the South Shore, the club’s success reflects a larger trend in recreational sports. Town officials also acknowledged the importance of supporting local businesses as part of Norwell’s broader economic development efforts.
“I think it is important to signal that Norwell is open for business,” Select Board Member Brian Greenberg said. “And with the talk of the potential override, people are squeezed. And really the only way the math works to provide some relief is to increase the commercial tax base.”
The liquor license will be valid through June 30, 2025, after which it will be subject to renewal. Club representatives expressed gratitude for the town’s support.