Franchising

Swig inks 25-unit deal to bring 'Dirty Soda' to South Florida

Photo: Swig

April 27, 2026

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Swig, a Utah-based dirty soda brand, is expanding its footprint in the Sunshine State after signing a 25-unit franchise agreement to develop locations across Southern Florida.

The deal, led by experienced multi-unit franchisees James Laskaris, Spiro Laskaris and Stephen Attard, will target markets including Port St. Lucie, Palm Beach and Stuart. The first location is slated to open by the end of 2026.

The franchisee group brings significant operational weight to the partnership. James Laskaris and Attard manage a portfolio of 80 Dunkin' locations and 11 Baskin-Robbins restaurants, alongside several Zaxby's and Jimmy John's units. Spiro Laskaris is the founder of Spiro's Taverna, a Greek concept with seven Florida locations.

"The product stands out, the model is simple to scale and the brand's marketing and energy really resonate with a younger, highly engaged customer base," James Laskaris said in a company release.

A lean operational model

Swig's growth strategy relies on a drive-thru-centric footprint that requires minimal square footage — typically between 800 and 850 square feet. By eliminating complex kitchen infrastructure, the brand allows operators to:

Streamline labor requirements.
Reduce initial build-out costs.
Scale rapidly in high-traffic markets.

"James, Stephen and Spiro are ideal franchise partners for Swig," Shannon Swenson, chief of franchise partnerships, said in the release.. "As experienced multi-unit operators, they understand how to scale a concept while delivering consistent, community-focused experiences."

National momentum

Founded in 2010 in St. George, Utah, Swig has grown to more than 150 locations across 16 states. In addition to its signature sodas, the menu includes "Refreshers" (water-based drinks), "Revivers" (energy drinks), and a variety of treats, including its signature pink frosted sugar cookie.

"Their proven multi-unit experience and operational discipline make them a great fit for our brand," Swig President Todd Smith said in the release.

Swig is seeking additional multi-unit operators to fuel its national expansion.

Swig Florida expansion: Frequently asked questions

Q. How many Swig locations are coming to South Florida?
A. Swig has signed a multi-unit franchise agreement to open 25 locations across Southern Florida. Key target areas for this expansion include Port St. Lucie, Palm Beach, and Stuart.

Q. Who are the franchisees behind Swig's Florida expansion?
A. The 25-unit deal is led by James Laskaris, Spiro Laskaris, and Stephen Attard. The partners have extensive experience in the fast-casual industry, operating more than 80 Dunkin' locations, 11 Baskin-Robbins, and several Jimmy John's and Zaxby's units.

Q. When will the first Swig open in South Florida?
A, The first South Florida Swig location is expected to open by the end of 2026.

Q. What is a "Dirty Soda"?
A. Swig defines "Dirty Soda" as a customizable beverage experience where classic sodas are mixed with various flavor syrups, fresh fruits, purees and creams.

Q. What makes the Swig franchise model unique for operators?
A. Swig utilizes a drive-thru-centric model with a small footprint (800–850 square feet). Because the concept does not require a full commercial kitchen, it offers lower build-out costs and streamlined labor compared to traditional fast-food models.

Franchising