Playa Bowls to expand in three major markets as it continues growth
Playa Bowls is hitting the ground running to start 2026.
The fast-casual superfruit bowl shop has signed three new franchise agreements, adding more than a dozen new locations to its development pipeline. Additionally, Playa Bowls says it is on track to open 20 new locations in the first quarter of this year.
In Southern Nevada, husband-and-wife teams Justin and Hannah Kirkland, alongside Craig and Diana Kirkland, have signed a 10-unit development agreement. The group plans to build brand presence across the region with a focus on “high-traffic, high-visibility” locations and the potential to explore non-traditional venues such as airports, sports stadiums and the Las Vegas Strip corridor. The group is targeting approximately two shop openings each year.
[READ MORE: Playa Bowls eyes 160-plus Canadian locations through partnership]
In the Midwest, Brittany and Jeff Ciaramita have signed a five-unit development agreement to introduce Playa Bowls to the St. Louis region. Their development strategy will prioritize areas with “strong residential density, proximity to schools and high-traffic corridors,” including Clayton, Ladue, Central West End, Creve Coeur, Town and Country and Chesterfield. The couple is targeting their first location to open in Clayton this fall.
Further expanding Playa Bowls’ presence in the Southeast, multi-unit operator Coleen Jeter, alongside her cousin Robin Richards, has signed a multi-unit agreement in the Charlotte, N.C., market. The team plans to open its first location in Tega Cay.
The new agreements come on the heels of a strong 2025 for the chain. Last year, Playa Bowls opened 85 new locations nationwide, bringing the brand to nearly 400 shops in less than one year after surpassing the 300-unit mark.
"These agreements reflect the strong interest we're seeing from operators who are looking for a brand with broad consumer appeal and long-term growth potential," said Jayson Tipp, chief development officer of Playa Bowls. "As we continue to grow, our focus remains on disciplined development and building the right partnerships. Our goal is to expand our simple operations model thoughtfully while ensuring our franchise owners are positioned for strong performance in their markets."
Founded in 2014 and based in New Jersey, Playa Bowls operates nearly 400 shops in 30 states. The chain’s menu includes over 40 items, including the bright flavors of acai, pitaya, green and coconut bowls alongside oatmeal bowls, juices, smoothies and cold brew.
In the fall of 2024, Playa Bowls was acquired by private equity firm Sycamore Partners for an undisclosed amount.
