Playa Bowls, the New Jersey-based acai bowl and smoothie chain, is getting ready to open its second Canadian location in Etobicoke at 197 North Queen Street, across from CF Sherway Gardens.
The new corporate-owned location is expected to open in late July, according to 6ixRetail. Team members from the company’s first Canadian location at The Well in downtown Toronto are expected to help launch the new store before transitioning to the Etobicoke team. The company also plans to open three franchise-operated locations before the end of the year as it continues its Canadian expansion. Customers can expect Playa Bowls’ lineup of acai bowls, pitaya bowls, smoothies, oatmeal bowls, and other fruit-based menu items.
The Etobicoke opening is part of Playa Bowls’ broader growth strategy following its master franchise agreement with Eat Up Canada Inc. The partnership calls for the development of more than 160 locations across Canada. George Heos and Alex Gerzon are leading the expansion efforts, while Beauleigh is overseeing the company’s national real estate strategy.
Beyond the upcoming Etobicoke location, Playa Bowls has confirmed interest in future locations in Vaughan, Burlington, a second downtown Toronto location, Ottawa, and Halifax. According to Heos, franchise interest has been strong since the company announced its Canadian plans, with eight prospective franchisees already in discussions before the first location had even opened. He said many of those prospective operators were already familiar with the brand from visits to the United States.
Playa Bowls opened its first Canadian location earlier this year at The Well in downtown Toronto. The concept has built a large following across the United States, with a menu centered on acai, pitaya, coconut, green banana, and oatmeal bowls, along with smoothies and other grab-and-go offerings. The Canadian menu does not include juices, a decision based on sales performance in the U.S. market.
The company’s leadership says Canada will remain its primary focus as it builds its international presence. CEO John Cappasola said Playa Bowls intends to establish a strong foundation in Canada before pursuing expansion into additional countries, with future growth depending on finding the right operating partners and favorable market conditions.
