Har-Tru, LLC, based in Charlottesville, VA, has acquired Lobster Sports, Inc., the supplier of portable, pickleball and tennis ball machines. The move adds a line of products that focuses on players, game improvement, and health and well-being.
Lobster Sports was founded in New Jersey in 1971, making it the oldest, continually-operating ball machine company worldwide.
“I cannot fully express how excited and honored I am that Har-Tru has been entrusted with the care of Lobster Sports,” said Pat Hanssen, Har-Tru’s president. “I grew up using Lobster ball machines during the tennis boom and feel a personal connection to the products and the brand. Opportunities to carry forward a legacy like this do not come along very often.”
“I am confident Har-Tru will be an excellent steward of the reputation and legacy of Lobster Sports, Inc.,” said Tony Potter. “My grandfather, Harry Giuditta, began Lobster Sports over 50 years ago with integrity to meet the needs of our customers. Since that time, we followed in his footsteps and have become a leader in our industry through innovation and cutting-edge design. Har-Tru was an obvious choice because of their eye towards legacy while being fully committed to growing our brand. I couldn’t be more excited for Lobster’s future.”
“Anyone who has used a boring box that tosses balls at you, inconsistently at best, knows how important innovation, ergonomics, quality products, and stellar design are,” shared Potter. “These are the features that have helped generations of customers become their best on the court.”
Hanssen shared his excitement about how Lobster fits into Har-Tru’s current business. “Har-Tru dates back to 1932, and our mission is to leverage our products and our expertise to help people create great places to play. We can now also focus on helping individual players, whatever their level, get exercise and improve their game. As a former teaching professional, I find that deeply satisfying.”
Hanssen said that Lobster will continue to operate independently from its current headquarters in Los Angeles. Har-Tru plans to invest in product development and to add accessories and amenities beneficial and convenient for tennis and pickleball players.
Photo courtesy Lobster Sports, Inc.
