Franchising

Swig signs 13-unit Chicago development agreement

Photo: Swig

July 7, 2026

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Swig, a dirty soda brand, has signed a 13-unit franchise agreement to expand into Chicago's southwest suburbs.

The development agreement with franchise operators Derek and Michelle Hincks will bring the brand to communities including Naperville, Crest Hill, Joliet and Bolingbrook. The first location will open in August 2026, marking a significant milestone in Swig's Midwest expansion.

The Hincks, a husband-and-wife team who own Sip City Social LLC, relocated to the Chicago area in 2020.

"We've admired Swig for years, not only because it created the dirty soda category, but because of the way the brand brings people together and makes every visit a fun, memorable experience," Derek Hincks said in a company press release. "As longtime fans of the brand, becoming franchisees felt like a natural next step after meeting the experienced executive team."

Swig's franchise model is built for efficiency and convenience, featuring a drive-thru-centric footprint that can operate in spaces as small as 800 to 850 square feet. Because the concept eliminates the need for complex kitchen infrastructure, operators can streamline labor, reduce build-out costs, and scale efficiently across multiple locations.

"Derek and Michelle bring the entrepreneurial mindset, franchise experience, and community-first values that we look for in our franchise partners," Swig CEO Alex Dunn said in the release. "Their passion for creating meaningful guest experiences and investing in the neighborhoods they serve makes them an outstanding addition to the Swig franchise family."

Todd Smith, president of Swig, noted that Chicago represents an exciting growth market for the brand, driven by strong demand from experienced operators who recognize Swig's long-term potential.

Founded in 2010 in St. George, Utah, Swig has grown from a single drive-thru concept into a nationally expanding brand with more than 150 locations across 16 states. The brand's menu features customizable drink mixes blending classic sodas with flavors, fresh fruits, purees, and creams, alongside water-based Refreshers, energy drinks, and snacks.

Swig is seeking qualified multi-unit operators to support its continued national expansion.

Franchising