Dirty Soda Craze Expands with New Franchise Deal in Suburban Areas

Swig, known for creating the dirty soda craze, is set to enter the suburbs with a new 13-unit development deal. The franchise will expand into locations such as Naperville, Crest Hill, Romeoville, and Bolingbrook. The first of these locations in Crest Hill is expected to open in August, with others following the next year.

For those unfamiliar with dirty sodas, these drinks are customizable, nonalcoholic beverages. They typically combine standard sodas like Coke or Dr Pepper with flavored syrups, creamer, and sometimes fruit or fruit juice. This combination gives the drink its distinctive cloudy or “dirty” appearance. The trend began in Utah and gained popularity within the Mormon community, which generally avoids caffeinated coffee and tea.

Dirty sodas became more recognized through their appearances in TV shows such as “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” and social media mentions by fans, including Olivia Rodrigo. Beyond dirty sodas, Swig’s menu includes water-based drinks called Refreshers, customizable energy drinks known as Revivers, and various sweet and savory snacks. Their pink frosted sugar cookie is especially popular.

Swig originated in 2010 in St. George, Utah. From one drive-thru location, it has grown to over 150 outlets in 16 states. The suburban locations will be operated by husband-and-wife team Derek and Michelle Hincks, owners of Sip City Social LLC. Derek Hincks expressed admiration for Swig, praising its creation of the dirty soda category and its ability to make every visit enjoyable and memorable.

Other restaurant chains, including McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and Sonic, have noticed Swig’s success and have begun offering their versions of dirty soda. Swig’s franchise model, like 7 Brew, focuses on a drive-thru system that requires only 800-850 square feet to operate efficiently.