Digital Transformation at Playa Bowls

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Playa Bowls partnered with Figure 8 in 2024 and 2025 to modernize its core digital infrastructure - laying the groundwork for smarter growth, stronger guest experiences, and scalable franchise support. From outdated legacy systems to a fully integrated digital stack, this transformation touches every layer of the business.

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Challenge

A bold brand with a fresh, vibrant menu and deep commitment to community connection, Playa Bowls has become a nationwide leader in the superfruit bowl space, now with over 300 locations.

But behind this rapidly growing quick service restaurant brand was outdated digital infrastructure that could not keep up. Legacy systems created inefficiencies, extensive manual support by the Playa Bowls team, and a subpar digital guest experience.

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Objective

Figure 8 was engaged to lead Playa Bowls through a complete digital transformation.

To support rapid growth and reduce operational drag, Figure 8 identified five core systems in need of modernization.

• Point-of-Sale (POS)

• Loyalty Program

• Payments Platform

• Gift Card System

• Website Design & UX

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Approach

First, Figure 8 initiated and led comprehensive Request for Proposal (RFP) processes for each system.

• We designed RFPs, fielded and analyzed 40+ vendor responses, and negotiated cost-effective Master Service Agreements.
• We aligned with Playa Bowls' current needs and projected growth strategy.

Now, we’re now managing full-platform implementations across all systems.

• Our end-to-end project oversight includes structured testing before go-live, careful sequencing of workstreams to minimize disruption, and coordination of all parties to maintain timeline integrity.

The key to our success was how we showed up - serving as a true partner with a shared stake in Playa Bowls' long-term success.

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Results & Impact

The impact of this work is already clear, in vendor performance, internal efficiency, and speed to market.

• Increased cost savings due to rigorous negotiation leveraging competitive benchmarks.

• Enhanced vendor partnership confidence through strategic vendor selection and tailored contracting.

• Faster implementation thanks to integrated oversight and coordination.

• One accountable digital system that unifies all core systems.

• Streamlined operations through expert change management.

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With Figure 8 at the helm, Playa Bowls is positioned to scale with confidence and serve up elevated digital experiences.

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For Playa Bowls, the partnership with Figure 8 wasn’t just about upgrading systems, it was about aligning on a strategic vision for digital growth.

“Given our rapid growth, we have the opportunity to quickly implement a best-in- class digital transformation with thoughtful, focused and strategic technology investments that enhance the guest experience and empower our franchise operators to continue delivering amazing results… We’re excited to have Figure 8 working as an extension of our team to help us ride this next wave of innovation.”

‍Jayson Tipp, Chief Development Officer at Playa Bowls

As implementation continues across systems, Figure 8 remains a strategic partner, ensuring Playa Bowls can adapt, grow, and lead with confidence in a fast-changing QSR landscape.

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