Dunkin’ Franchise Runs on SouthState

In the bustling world of quick-service restaurants, few names are as synonymous with success as James Laskaris. From his humble beginnings working at his family’s diner in Stuart, Florida, to becoming the powerhouse behind 73 Dunkin’ and 9 Baskin Robbins franchise locations across a five-state footprint, James’s journey is a testament to vision, determination, and carving your own path. 
 

Brewing a Brighter Future

James’s early years were spent in the heat of a kitchen; from the age of 9, he was helping his family run their 400-seat diner. Though he loved the restaurant industry, he envisioned a different path – one where he had ownership and more say in the business. This dream began to take shape when a loyal diner customer recruited him and his brother as Operations Partners for Dunkin’ Donuts. At just 21, James embarked on a journey that would take him from five franchise locations in West Palm Beach to a network of 14 stores on the Treasure Coast.

However, James’s entrepreneurial spirit couldn’t be contained. In 2005, he decided to venture out on his own. With the help of operations partner, Stephen Attard, and a financial backer, James ventured into the Atlanta market. Despite the challenges and skepticism from former partners, James’s determination and vision led to rapid growth. 

“When Stephen and I set out on our own, I had a personal goal to own 5-8 locations in the Georgia market,” James laughs. By 2015, they had 26 stores in North Atlanta.

The Perks of Partnership

It was around this time that James’s path crossed with SouthState Franchise Finance Banker, Mike Smith. Facing unattainable lending conditions and dead ends with most of the banks he pursued, James was spending a significant portion of his time seeking financial backing. James was so frustrated trying to secure lending from a bank that he nearly gave up – until a dear friend in the Dunkin’ business referred Mike. Initially hesitant, James quickly recognized Mike’s deep understanding of the franchise business and the flexibility SouthState offered.

“From the first meeting, I knew SouthState was different,” James recalls. “They didn’t just see numbers; they saw our vision and potential. The process of partnering was seamless.”

SouthState’s support wasn’t just financial. Mike and his team provided a level of personal touch and service that James had never experienced with other lenders. This relationship extended beyond mere transactions, with Mike and other SouthState members frequently attending grand openings and offering continual support. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without Mike Smith and SouthState,” James emphasizes.
 

Finding the Sweet Spot

The partnership between James and SouthState has flourished over the years. What started with immediate financing and refinancing in 2015 has grown into a robust collaboration that has supported James’s expansion to 73 Dunkin’ stores across Georgia, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, and Tennessee, with plans to develop in Austin, Texas.

“Every other lender made me feel like just another number,” James reflects. “With SouthState, it’s a real relationship. If I need Mike, I can call him, and he’ll be there. That’s invaluable.”

Mike echoes this sentiment: “We’re proud to partner with James and witness his growth firsthand. Being able to connect at a local level and support his endeavors has been – and continues to be – incredibly rewarding.”

Donut Get It Twisted: The People Come First

James’s success is deeply rooted in his commitment to people. “The number one key to our success is our people,” he asserts. Many of his employees have been with him for over two decades, moving across states to help build his business. James believes in investing in their futures, and several employees have become owners of multiple restaurants themselves. “It’s not just a job to them; it’s where they belong,” James says proudly.

Mike has seen this dedication firsthand. “The care James has for his people is evident in everything they do. They treat their employees with such respect and support. It’s inspiring to see.”

A Recipe for Success

For 18 years, James has been joined by his trusted business partner, Stephen Attard. Together, their collective strengths and friendship have played a crucial role in driving their business forward. “It makes it easy to do what we’ve done and continue to do with such a great partnership,” says James. “We don’t just treat each other as business partners – we are family. We’re always there for one another and that’s what truly makes our partnership unbreakable.”

With the unwavering support of SouthState, James and Stephen are more ambitious than ever. Their goal is to cross the 100-location threshold soon, with an ultimate aim of 150-200 restaurants, including other brands like Zaxby’s. They’re also looking to the future, hoping to eventually bring their kids into the business.

“We don’t have to ask SouthState if they can help; we tell them what we want to accomplish, and they make it happen,” James says with confidence. “Knowing they’re behind us gives us the freedom to be aggressive and pursue our goals.”

The relationship between James’ Dunkin’ business and SouthState is built on mutual respect, a shared vision, and unwavering support. From a small family diner to a sprawling network of franchises, James’s journey is a compelling testament to what can be achieved with the right partners by your side. As he looks to the future, expanding his footprint and nurturing the next generation of leaders, one thing is clear: with SouthState by his side, the sky’s the limit.