Originally posted on FastCasual.com

New Jersey-based Playa Bowls, specializing in acai, pitaya, mango, green and coconut bowls, smoothies, juices, cold brew and more, signed 52 franchise commitments and opened 11 stores during the third quarter of 2024. Since the start of the year, it has secured 195 franchise commitments with 55% signed by existing franchisees.

“Our success in 2024 has been remarkable, with over 275 stores nationwide, 75 openings expected this year, and nearly 300 franchise commitments driving our future expansion,” CDO Jayson Tipp said in a company press release. “We’re excited to bring Playa Bowls to new markets and make our offerings accessible to consumers nationwide driven by industry-leading performance and demand. It’s truly rewarding to see both new and existing franchisees recognize the value of our brand and commit to growing the Playa Bowls family as we expand our presence across the country.”

Existing owners invest in Denver

Driving Playa Bowls’ expansion across the Denver area are franchisees Cody Benisch and Robert Wissing. The duo, which opened its first location in 2021, has five stores and will add five more over the next two years. The first will be in Boulder and is set to open near the University of Colorado by year’s end.

Entering Dallas

Playa Bowls announced its entry into Dallas earlier this year with three separate multi-unit agreements signed and a first shop opening scheduled for Q1 2025. Playa Bowls extended plans to develop the Dallas market with first-time franchisees Anshuman Parikh and Brandon Tieu. The business partners have committed to opening 10 locations across Dallas over the next five years and are actively scouting prime areas for expansion. Parikh and Tieu were attracted to Playa Bowls’ health-focused menu and robust corporate support, identifying Dallas as an ideal market for the brand’s continued growth.

“With Playa Bowls in such an exciting growth period, we felt it was the perfect time to join the momentum and help expand the brand,” Parikh said in the release.

“The Dallas market offers plenty of untapped potential, giving the brand ample room for growth.” Tieu added. “While better-for-you menus are gaining popularity, Playa Bowls has truly perfected its offerings over the course of a decade. Playa Bowls’ açaí stands out from its competitors, is difficult to replicate and beloved by customers. We’re eager to be part of this business and to contribute to its continued success.”

Playa Bowls has over 275 shops in 23 states.