Listen to this articleThe basics:
- John Cappasola appointed CEO, succeeds Dan Harmon
- Leadership additions include new COO, CFO & general counsel
- Playa Bowls plans 90 new store openings by end of 2025 under Sycamore Partners ownership
Leadership changes are underway at Jersey Shore-born superfruit bowl franchise Playa Bowls.
In a Sept. 9 press release, the Belmar-based chain said restaurant industry veteran John Cappasola stepped into the chief executive officer role “earlier this year.”
He succeeded Dan Harmon, who took the helm from co-founder Rob Giuliani in April 2023.
Cappasola’s background includes serving on Playa Bowls’ board of directors since New York City-headquartered Sycamore Partners acquired the brand last fall. He previously served as CEO of specialty cake franchise Nothing Bundt Cakes, as well as president and CEO of Del Taco, the nation’s second-largest quick-service Mexican restaurant concept.
Playa Bowls did not say when Cappasola began as CEO, but his LinkedIn profile notes he has held the post since January.
New execs
At Playa Bowls, Cappasola aims to strengthen franchise owner support, enhance digital capabilities and elevate guest experience to reinforce the brand’s position as a category leader, the chain said.
Commenting on his role, Cappasola said, “The Playa Bowls experience is truly unique, blending a lifestyle vibe with a menu that proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to eat healthier. It’s an inspiring opportunity to work alongside our team and franchise owners to build on that foundation and help lead this next chapter of growth, while staying true to the vision that’s made Playa Bowls a category leader.”
Playa Bowls also announced the following additions to its leadership team:
- Julie Klinger as chief operating officer
- Tony Reaman as chief financial officer
- Christine Johnson as general counsel
Growth goals
Founded in 2014, Playa Bowls is known for its extensive and unique menu of acai, pitaya, coconut, kale, banana, oatmeal and mango bowls. It also serves juices, smoothies and cold brews made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Over the past decade, its footprint has grown to more than 300 locations nationwide. It has also picked up numerous industry accolades from trade publications like Franchise Times, Fast Casual and QSR.
When Sycamore purchased Playa Bowls for an undisclosed sum, the private equity firm said it was focused on speeding up growth of the franchise in the U.S. By the end of 2025, Playa Bowls expects to open 90 new shops, according to this week’s press release.
The chain also said co-founder Abby Taylor remains its chief marketing officer and Jayson Tipp is continuing as chief development officer.
Tipp joined the team two years ago. He said, “We are driving growth through intentional market planning, a community of passionate and engaged operators, strong unit economics, and a brand that resonates with today’s consumers. This year, with 150 new franchise commitments signed, 85 percent of our new agreements are with existing franchisees, which is a strong testament to the confidence and commitment within our system. As we look ahead, we’re focused on quality expansion in existing markets and tapping into tremendous opportunities to open shops on the West Coast.”
