Food Chain - Issue 196 - October 2023 | Page 151

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Playa Bowls
Officer , while Abby occupies the role of Chief Marketing Officer , and they have a strong team around them to support operations .
Having recognized its potential for tremendous franchise growth , Playa set out on a mission to expand . Its top-down approach to guidance and support has enabled franchises to flourish , which has in turn empowered communities and local businesses . Today , Playa occupies 28 corporate locations and 203 franchise sites across 21 states .
Flourishing franchise
The business has four core values – respect , integrity , passion , and quality – that guide everything it does . On a mission to inspire and support communities , Playa ’ s employees live and breathe its brand in everything they do , from their actions to the relationships they form in the community .
At its numerous locations , Playa serves high-quality , innovative products to support healthier lifestyles and create an atmosphere of fun , excitement , and togetherness . In terms of food specifically , it focuses on providing a delicious bowl to every guest , delivered with authenticity and passion for ‘ the Playa way .’
Its menu certainly has a flavorful offering . It all starts with the base , of which Playa has seven options : açai , pitaya , coconut , green , chia puffing , banana , and oatmeal , as well as two year-round special bases . Under every base category , there are different fruits to choose from . In the açai category , for example , the first option is ‘ 8th Ave ,’ which is açai , granola , banana , and honey ; next is the ‘ Pura Vida ’ consisting of açai , granola , strawberries , blueberries , and honey .
With a total of 37 different bowl options and combinations from which to choose , Playa is sure to offer something for everyone . However , the flavor freedom doesn ’ t stop there . If the recommended menu options don ’ t take your fancy , you can opt for a custom bowl and select the wildest or simplest pairings to satisfy your needs .
Aside from bowls , Playa ’ s menu features smoothies , juices , and cold brews , as well as seasonal specials . For fall , the menu features a pumpkin pie smoothie , pumpkin sweet cream cold brew , and pumpkin protein bites . Its bowl specials include the ‘ jack-olantern açai bowl ,’ topped with pumpkin flax granola , banana , pumpkin butter , and spices , and the ‘ apple turn up açai bowl ’ with blueberry flax granola , apple slices , banana , apple butter , chopped peanuts , and cinnamon .
Maintaining strong , positive working relationships with suppliers such as Driscoll ’ s , Playa is able to offer superior quality and exceptional levels of service . With this in mind , its core açai recipe includes double the amount of pulp ( the skin of the berry ) compared to its competitors to maximize the health benefits it brings . It promises to never blend its açai with banana or apple juice , as this brings down the natural sugar contents . Its açai is directly imported from Brazil and is never stored for more than 21 days , unlike many competitors that store açai for over a year .
To minimize its environmental footprint , Playa serves its açai in ECO bowls , with ECO spoons , straws , and lids available at all locations . It has also recently partnered with local refuse companies on unique recycling solutions to increase use-efficiency and reduce waste . Additionally , being passionate about hiring in the local community , due to the belief that this fosters a healthier , happier working culture , contributes to minimizing the company ’ s environmental impact .
From a post-surf snack , inspired by its founders ’ experiences , to a commitment to deliver healthier , more sustainable food choices , Playa is sure to continue growing at the successful rate it has already demonstrated over the last nine years . ■
www . playabowls . com
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