Swig Announces 13-Unit Deal in Chicago

July 07, 2026 // FranchisePR.com // CHICAGO, Ill.— Swig has signed a multi-unit franchise agreement with experienced franchise operators Derek and Michelle Hincks to expand the brand across Chicago’s southwest suburbs. The development agreement will introduce Swig’s highly customizable drink experience to new communities, including Naperville, Crest Hill, Joliet, and Bolingbrook, with the first location scheduled to open in August 2026. The agreement marks another milestone in Swig’s continued Midwest expansion and nationwide franchise growth.

Derek and Michelle Hincks, the husband-and-wife team who own Sip City Social LLC, bring experience in community engagement and franchise operations. Since relocating to the Chicago area in 2020, they have supported local schools, charitable organizations, and community initiatives. Their entrepreneurial mindset and a people-first approach position them to participate in Swig’s franchise network.

“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,” said Derek Hincks. “As longtime fans of the brand, becoming franchisees felt like a natural next step after meeting the experienced Executive team. Their passion and commitment to the business were contagious, and we knew we wanted to be a part of what they were building. We’re eager to introduce Swig to the Chicago area, become part of these communities, and create places where guests can connect over something they genuinely enjoy.”

“Derek and Michelle bring the entrepreneurial mindset, franchise experience, and community-first values that we look for in our franchise partners,” said Alex Dunn, CEO of Swig. “Their passion for creating meaningful guest experiences and investing in the neighborhoods they serve makes them an outstanding addition to the Swig franchise family, and we look forward to supporting their growth throughout the Chicago market.”

Swig’s franchise model emphasizes efficiency and convenience with a drive-thru-centric footprint that can operate in as little as 800–850 square feet. The concept eliminates the need for complex kitchen infrastructure, enabling operators to streamline labor, reduce build-out costs, and scale across multiple locations.

“We continue to see strong demand from experienced operators who recognize the long-term potential of the Swig brand,” said Todd Smith, President of Swig. “Chicago represents an exciting growth market for us, and Derek and Michelle are well-positioned to introduce the Swig experience to new guests while building lasting connections within their communities.”

Founded in 2010 in St. George, Utah, Swig was created to offer a beverage concept blending classic sodas with bold flavors, fresh fruits, purees, and creams. The company also offers water-based drinks called Refreshers, customizable energy drinks called Revivers, and snacks, including a pink frosted sugar cookie. For more information, visit swig.com.

SOURCE Swig