In the late 19th century, New York soda fountains fiercely competed with inventive beverages like Kola Phosphates, Fuzzy Flips, and Lime Rickeys. More than a century later, that spirit is revived under the name 'dirty soda'—sparkling soft drinks laced with syrups, cream, fruit purees, and lime—now a full-fledged national phenomenon in the United States.
The concept traces back to 2009, when Nicole Tanner, then living in St. George, Utah, sought a way to support her five children after relocating from Colorado. During the economic downturn, families were tightening budgets, but Tanner saw that a favorite drink could be an inexpensive indulgence.
Her family often visited the Sonic drive-in chain for their favorite drinks, but Tanner grew frustrated with the wait. She explained: 'I knew there had to be a better way to satisfy our drink cravings with friendly service and quality products. So why not open a drive-through drink stand?'
In 2010, the first Swig store opened in St. George, priced at just $1 per cup for the first few months to attract customers. By the end of the first year, lines stretched around the block. Tanner wanted to do for soda what Starbucks did for coffee—create a true destination with endless customization options.
