Franchising

South Block lands at Washington airport

Photo: South Block

January 2, 2025

South Block, a fast casual chain serving acai bowls, smoothies and cold-pressed juices, has opened in Concourse D at Washington Dulles International Airport.

"We are beyond excited to bring our delicious, fruitful menu to Dulles International," Amir Mostafavi, CEO and founder, said in a company press release. "This new location allows us to spread our mission of building healthier, happier blocks to even more people and make them feel awesome. Whether you're catching a flight or working at the airport, you can roll with us to grab a quick, nutritious meal while enjoying our signature good vibes."

The better-for-you brand is keeping customer needs at the forefront by supporting other local businesses, said franchisee Stephen Baldi, owner of Baldi Management Group, which operates Dunkin Donuts, Smashburger, Auntie Anne's and Potbelly locations at Dulles International and Reagan National airports.

"We are extremely grateful to have this opportunity and am excited to bring great local brands to our hometown airport," he said in the release.

BMG and South Block have also teamed up with D.C.-based Procure Impact to include packaged snacks produced by local social enterprises. Additionally, the store will feature on-the-go sandwiches and salads from D.C.-based, women-owned Wellfound Foods.

"This new addition will provide Dulles travelers and staffers alike with another fantastic food option," said Alyson Murphy, VP of Fraport Washington, the concessions program manager at Dulles. "Our program centers around partnerships, and the collaboration between this health-conscious brand, its D.C.-based operator BMG, and ties to social enterprise and women-owned businesses from our region is an excellent example of this," she said in the release. "This results in greater variety, convenience, and local flavor for passengers and the airport community, all sourced from our area."

South Block opened its first location in 2011, in Arlington, Virginia, and has 18 restaurants.