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Swig Expands National Footprint via Scalable Franchise Model

Corroborated by 2 sources Confirmed across multiple independent newsrooms. How it was made ↓
Swig Expands National Footprint via Scalable Franchise Model
Photo via Utah News Staff from 2 sources
Swig, the Utah-based brand credited with inventing "dirty soda," continues to expand its national footprint through a scalable franchise model. The company currently operates over 170 locations across 17 states.

Key takeaways

  • Swig has expanded to over 170 locations across 17 states.
  • The brand is credited with inventing the "dirty soda" beverage category.
  • Franchise requirements include $2,500,000 in liquid assets and the development of at least 10 locations.
  • The business model is designed for speed and efficiency with footprints as small as 800 square feet.
  • Prospective franchisees must currently operate at least 10 existing quick-service or fast-casual franchises.

Swig, the Utah-based brand credited with inventing the "dirty soda" beverage trend, continues to expand its national presence through a scalable franchise model that has grown to over 170 locations across 17 states.

A Scalable Business Model

The company, which describes itself as a category leader rather than a follower, utilizes a business model designed for speed and efficiency. Swig's menu focuses on dirty sodas, cookies, and pretzel bites, catering to a customer base ranging from Gen Z to suburban parents.

Flexible Real Estate Options

The brand offers flexible real estate options for potential franchisees, including ground-up builds and end-cap drive-thrus. Store footprints can be as small as 800 square feet to accommodate high-traffic trade areas while maintaining brand consistency.

Franchise Requirements

Prospective franchisees face significant financial and operational requirements to join the brand. According to Swig, investors must possess $2,500,000 in liquid assets and demonstrate the ability to develop a minimum of 10 locations, with a target of building 2-3 new stores per year.

Operational Standards

The company also requires existing operators to have a proven track record in the industry. Applicants must currently own and operate 10 or more quick-service or fast-casual franchise restaurants in their target market area and maintain strong operational metrics, such as 4-star or higher online reviews.

Local Presence

Swig maintains a significant presence in the Utah market, with locations such as the Sandy shop operating daily. The Sandy location, located at 9470 S. Highland Drive Suite 1, offers drive-thru, takeout, and dine-in options.

The Dirty Soda Experience

The brand defines its signature "dirty soda" as a combination of traditional soda with customized mixes of flavors, purees, fresh fruits, and creams.

Sources used (3)

How this story was made

Corroborated by 2 independent sources

Utah News confirmed this story across multiple independent newsrooms before publishing.

swig.comutahbusiness.com

3 sources gathered

Coverage collected from the outlets listed above. · August 27, 2026

Written by AI

Utah News AI (on-device model) · drawing on 2 outlets · August 27, 2026

Quality checks

Passed editorial quality review (75/100)

Published

8 hours ago · August 27, 2026

This story was written by AI from the public sources listed above and passed automated quality review before publishing.

Article details

CategoryMulti-Source
CityCottonwood Heights, St. George, Salt Lake City
ToneNeutral
SourceAI Generated