Little Diggers Signs 50 Plus U.S. Franchise Locations

Little Diggers has signed more than 50 franchise locations across the United States, adding to six corporate-owned stores, with more openings planned later this year. Founded in Dublin, Ohio, in 2023 by Zach and Hannah Bowers, the construction-themed indoor playspace serves children age seven and under. Each location centers on 1,200 square feet of sandbox play space with more than 200 toys, trucks, and excavators. The company says it has served more than 100,000 children since opening.

A Focused Play Format

Little Diggers built its business around hands-on, slower-paced play in a setting designed to help children focus. Its custom-designed Sand Stacker is among the equipment available in the sand areas.

The company sources sand from the Bahamas that it describes as silica-free, non-toxic, and bio-renewable. Locations also offer coffee, including nitro cold and hot brew options, for visiting parents.

Zach Bowers, Founder at Little Diggers, said:

“There's something special about getting lost in playtime. And for our kids, it's never taken more than trucks and a pile of dirt (or sand). We created Little Diggers for children to enjoy an immersive, hands-on play experience that excites both their senses and imagination.”

Franchise Growth Across States

Since launching its franchising arm in 2025, Little Diggers has received thousands of franchise inquiries from all 50 states and more than 85 countries. Its signed franchises include locations open or in development in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.

The company also plans to expand into California, with details to be announced. Zach Bowers, a former venture capital-backed fintech CTO, has applied lean startup principles to the brick-and-mortar expansion.

Partnerships Build Awareness

Little Diggers has worked with Handyman Hal, Sherri Dusty Rinker, and Paramount around the recent release of Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie. The company has also built a social media following of more than 130,000.

For prospective franchisees, the growth plan offers a defined children’s play format that combines an indoor sandbox environment with amenities for accompanying parents.