The Picklr, North America’s hit indoor pickleball franchise, has announced Abby Olson as its new Chief Operating Officer. Olson, a dynamic leader recognized for operations and training expertise during periods of explosive franchise growth, steps into the COO role as the company prepares to scale operations.
Proven Expertise in Rapid Franchise Growth
Olson brings extensive expertise from her career growth within Crumbl Cookies, where she most recently served as Vice President of Field Operations. During her tenure with Crumbl, Olson held progressive leadership positions, including Vice President of Training, Senior Director of Training and Development, Business Coach, and Field Trainer. She was instrumental in expanding the cookie franchise from fewer than 10 locations to more than 1,100 across two countries.
According to a recent press release, Olson managed one of Crumbl’s largest teams and spearheaded the opening of up to 16 new locations weekly, ensuring collaboration across supply chain, franchise development, customer experience, and international operations.
“Abby’s entrepreneurial mindset and deep operational knowledge make her the perfect fit for this critical leadership role,” said Jorge Barragan, Co-Founder and CEO of The Picklr. “Her experience scaling one of the fastest-growing franchise brands in the country is invaluable as we accelerate The Picklr’s national and international expansion.”
In her role at The Picklr, Olson will oversee daily operations, streamline franchise support systems, and enhance cross-departmental collaboration in franchise operations, training, customer experience, brand compliance, and international growth. With a strong background in instructional design, training, operations strategy, CRM, and hospitality services, Olson is uniquely prepared to elevate franchisee support and club member experiences. Additionally, as a multi-unit franchise owner herself, she brings valuable firsthand insights into franchise operations and franchisee satisfaction.
“Joining The Picklr at this stage of its journey is an incredible opportunity,” Olson said. “This brand has an undeniable magic that sets it apart. The focus now is on helping franchisees create truly memorable experiences for their club members, while growing the sport by bringing even more people into the pickleball community.”
Olson holds a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Administration and Management from Utah Valley University, further reinforcing her capabilities in franchise management, customer service excellence, and operational leadership. In many ways, a hospitality foundation has been shown to build great customer experiences within franchise brands.
With Olson at the operational helm, The Picklr is set to continue its trajectory as an industry leader, bringing exceptional pickleball experiences to communities worldwide.
