Playa Bowls Enhances Leadership to Support North American Expansion

May 27, 2026 // Franchising.com // BELMAR, N.J. – Playa Bowls is updating its leadership team with appointments and promotions. The additions bring enhanced focus across development, marketing, and digital.

As part of these updates, Jayson Tipp, formerly Chief Development Officer, has been named Chief Growth Officer, overseeing development, technology, and digital marketing.

In his stead, Patrick Turek has been appointed Chief Development Officer to lead development, real estate, design, and construction.

Turek has more than 20 years of experience in real estate and franchise development. He has held leadership roles in development at various brands.

The marketing leadership team is being updated to support innovation, digital engagement, and long-term brand growth.

Tim Hackbardt has been appointed Chief Marketing Officer to lead brand marketing and innovation. He will focus on product development and brand storytelling, and on bringing offerings to market in a way that reflects evolving consumer preferences while maintaining the flavors and quality associated with Playa Bowls.

Hackbardt has more than 30 years of marketing leadership experience in multi-unit restaurant brands, with a track record in brand revitalization, menu innovation, and sales growth. Previous roles include leadership in integrated marketing strategies and digital transformation at various brands.

Mark Foulds has also been named Vice President of Digital Marketing to lead digital, loyalty, and performance marketing strategies. Foulds brings experience in digital marketing, loyalty, and global brand strategy from leadership roles at various brands.

Founder Abby Taylor will continue to guide and shape the brand’s creative direction as Chief Creative Officer, focusing on the elements that have defined Playa Bowls since day one. As the creative force behind the brand, Taylor remains closely involved in everything from product and visual identity to the in-shop experience, ensuring the brand continues to evolve while staying rooted in the energy and authenticity that set it apart.

“Playa Bowls is a brand that consumers feel a real connection to, from our acai bowls packed with beneficial ingredients to the vibe in our shops, there’s nothing quite like it, and as we continue to grow, our focus is to protect the brand and leverage our scale,” said John Cappasola, CEO of Playa Bowls. “Beyond supporting our growth and franchise owners, this team brings an experienced perspective that will strengthen how we develop shops, evolve our systems and processes, and continue building a brand that resonates in every market we enter.”

With this leadership team in place, Playa Bowls continues to develop its shop network.

SOURCE Playa Bowls

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