'Dirty soda' chain Swig to enter Colorado with 10-unit deal
A drive-thru customizable beverage chain that specializes in one of the country's hottest trends is expanding its footprint.
Utah-based Swig, which describes itself as "the home of original dirty soda," is expanding into Colorado, through a 10-unit franchise agreement to open locations across Colorado Springs, the state’s second-largest city. The first location is expected to open by the end of 2026, adding to Swig's nationwide franchise initiative. The chain currently operates more than 150 locations across 16 states.
Founded in 2010, Swig says it introduced the concept of the dirty soda — a customizable blend of classic sodas with added flavors, fresh fruits, purees and creams — to customers. The chain achieved national prominence after the cast of the hit reality show, “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” frequented it while filming the show.
In addition to its trademark dirty sodas, Swig also offers water-based drinks called Refreshers, customizable energy drinks called Revivers, and sweet and savory snack options.
Behind the agreement are Alex and Alan Knox, a father-son team, who bring a strong background in franchising and restaurant operations to their new venture with Swig.
"As we grow into new markets, we're focused on building a brand that's as much about the guest experience as it is about the product," said Alex Dunn, CEO at Swig. "Alex and Alan share that vision, and we're confident they'll create a strong connection with the Colorado Springs community from day one."
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Swig says its franchise model is built for “efficiency and convenience,” with a drive-thru-centric footprint that can operate in as little as 800 to 850 square feet. The concept reduces the need for complex kitchen infrastructure, enabling operators to streamline labor, reduce build-out costs, and scale efficiently across multiple locations.
"We're seeing strong demand for concepts that are both operationally efficient and highly adaptable to today's consumer preferences," said Todd Smith, president of Swig. "Our model is designed to meet that demand, and expanding into Colorado Springs is a natural next step as we continue to scale with the right partners.”
