Belmar-based Playa Bowls on Tuesday said it signed 14 multiunit franchise commitments during the first quarter. The commitments will introduce 63 new shops in key markets, including Manhattan; Sarasota, Florida; Phoenix; and Miami, among other regions. Playa Bowls also signed nine additional single-unit franchises in the first quarter.
With 20 new locations already opened since the start of the year, Playa Bowls is on track to open 75 locations and secure more than 100 franchise commitments in 2024.
“While 60% of our new franchises are signed with existing operators, we’re pleased to welcome more Playa Bowls franchisees into our system to assist in the nationwide development of our brand,” Jayson Tipp, chief development officer at Playa Bowls, said. “The beginning of 2024 has propelled us into a strong start for the year, helping us solidify our presence in existing markets, including Miami, Phoenix and Boston. We’re also looking forward to introducing our brand to new territories like Houston and Cleveland. Our franchise network is rapidly expanding as owners are recognizing the success of the Playa Bowls brand and are feeling inspired to bring our delicious and nutritious menu offerings to new communities. We’re excited about the momentum we’ve already gained so early in the year and are eager for what lies ahead.”
Playa Bowls’ expansion efforts have resulted in multiunit commitments across the following markets:
- Manhattan: 10 units signed by Raj Punwani;
- Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Morgantown, West Virginia: Seven units signed by Ben Bennett;
- Miami/Orlando, Florida: Five units signed by Alexandra Arguello;
- Sarasota/Tampa, Florida: Five units signed by Ethan and Jacob McGowan;
- Long Island, New York: Four units signed by Jason and Alyson Halpin;
- Miami: Four units signed by Roxanne and Barry Vogel;
- Phoenix: Four units signed by Brad Crider;
- Atlanta: Three units signed by Michael and Jenn O’Donnell;
- Boerne, Texas: Three units signed by Linda and Lou Crerand;
- Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas: Three units signed by Anupam Reddy;
- East Providence, Rhode Island: Three units signed by Raed Yazbeck;
- Hartford, Connecticut: Three units signed by Hanish Patel and partners;
- Waldorf, Maryland: Three units signed by Numaan Shah;
- West Providence, Rhode Island: Three units signed by Erik Hamel and partners.
Since its inception in 2014, Playa Bowls has emerged as a leader in the national superfruit bowl shop segment. Today, the brand has more than 225 shops systemwide, operating in 22 states.
