• by Teresa Buyikian , October 24, 2023

This week Playa Bowls announced it was hiring Nicolle DuBose as chief marketing officer. DuBose fills the role left by Playa Bowls' co-founder Abby Taylor, who will remain at the company as chief branding officer and continue to play a role in overall marketing efforts.

DuBose joins the superfruit bowl chain after more than 20 years in the food and beverage industry. Most recently, she served as vice president and head of marketing for Schlotzsky's at Focus Brands.  She previously worked at a host of other Focus Brands company, with positions as vice president of marketing for Carvel Ice Cream and director of field marketing for Moe’s Southwest Grill, as well as a stint at the company’s Cinnabon brand. 

At Playa Bowls, DuBose will head up all aspects of the chain’s marketing efforts, including brand strategy, digital marketing, social media and customer engagement initiatives.

"Throughout her career, DuBose has proven to be an innovative thinker and … she will be instrumental in elevating Playa Bowls' presence as we … connect with more guests who are looking for nutritious food options,” said Dan Harmon, CEO of Playa Bowls, in a release.

The 200-unit chain, which operates in 22 states, also recently updated its primarily plant-based menu to add fall seasonal dishes and beverages. These include the Apple Turn Up Acai Bowl, Jack-O'-Lantern Acai Bowl, Pumpkin Pie Smoothie, Pumpkin Sweet Cream Cold Brew and Pumpkin Protein Bites.

The company was originally founded by surfers Abby Taylor and Rob Giuliani in 2014, inspired to replicate the acai and pitaya bowls the duo enjoyed on surf trips to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, California and Hawaii.

Playa Bowls also recently released a fall/winter merchandise collection earlier this month, including T-shirts, hoodies and hats, available in store and on the chain’s website.