Swig Company Profile

Background

Overview

Swig is a drive-through specialty beverage chain renowned for its "dirty sodas," a unique concoction of base sodas mixed with flavored syrups, creams, and fruit purees. Founded in April 2010 by Nicole Tanner in St. George, Utah, Swig has expanded its presence across multiple states, becoming a significant player in the specialty beverage industry. As of June 2025, the company operates 113 locations in 15 states, including Utah, Arizona, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Mission and Vision

Swig's mission is to create the perfect customer satisfaction experience, offering customized beverages and stellar sweets that make bad days good and good days better. The company envisions becoming a nationwide leader in the specialty beverage market, providing unique and enjoyable drink experiences to a diverse customer base.

Industry Significance

Swig has played a pivotal role in popularizing the "dirty soda" trend, particularly in the western United States. Its innovative approach to beverage customization has influenced the broader beverage industry, inspiring similar offerings from other chains and contributing to the growth of the specialty beverage segment.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Expansion: Rapidly increase the number of locations to establish a strong national presence.

• Innovation: Continuously develop new beverage flavors and offerings to attract a diverse customer base.

• Customer Experience: Enhance the drive-through experience to ensure convenience and satisfaction.

Areas of Specialization

• Beverage Customization: Offering a wide range of customizable "dirty sodas" and other specialty drinks.

• Sweets and Snacks: Providing complementary items like sugar cookies with pink frosting and salted pretzel bites.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Point-of-Sale Systems: Advanced POS systems to streamline orders and payments.

• Mobile Ordering: Developing mobile applications to facilitate pre-ordering and loyalty programs.

Primary Markets Targeted

• Geographic Expansion: Focus on entering new states and regions, including Idaho, Texas, the Midwest, the Carolinas, and Florida.

• Demographic Focus: Targeting young adults and families seeking unique and customizable beverage experiences.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

• Initial Investment: Founded by Nicole Tanner in 2010.

• Major Stake Acquisition: In November 2022, the Larry H. Miller Company acquired a majority stake in Swig, with the Savory Fund retaining a minority interest.

Total Funds Raised

Specific details regarding the total funds raised by Swig are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

• Larry H. Miller Company: Acquired a majority stake in 2022.

• Savory Fund: Retained a minority interest post-2022 acquisition.

Utilization of Capital

The capital has been utilized for:

• Expansion: Opening new locations in various states.

• Technology Development: Enhancing mobile ordering systems and customer engagement platforms.

• Marketing: Promoting the brand and attracting a broader customer base.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

• New Store Openings: Plans to open approximately 500 new stores within five to seven years, targeting states like Idaho, Texas, the Carolinas, and Florida.

Stages of Development

• Site Selection: Identifying and securing locations in target markets.

• Construction: Building and setting up new store locations.

• Launch: Opening new stores to the public.

Target Conditions

• Urban and Suburban Areas: Focusing on regions with high foot traffic and a young demographic.

Anticipated Milestones

• 2025: Opening of new locations in Idaho and Texas.

• 2026-2027: Expansion into the Carolinas and Florida.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

• Beverage Customization Software: Systems that allow customers to create personalized drink combinations.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Flavor Profiling: Utilizing customer feedback and sales data to develop popular drink flavors.

AI-Driven Capabilities

• Predictive Analytics: Analyzing purchasing patterns to forecast demand and optimize inventory.

Leadership Team

Alex Dunn – CEO

• Background: Managing partner at the Larry H. Miller Company; became CEO of Swig in 2024.

• Contributions: Led the acquisition of Swig and initiated rapid expansion strategies.

Chase Wardrop – COO

• Background: Extensive experience in operations management within the food and beverage industry.

• Contributions: Streamlined operational processes and improved supply chain efficiency.

Dylan Roeder – CMO

• Background: Expertise in marketing and brand development for consumer goods.

• Contributions: Enhanced brand visibility and customer engagement through targeted marketing campaigns.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

• Market Size: The specialty beverage industry is experiencing significant growth, with increasing consumer demand for customizable and unique drink experiences.

• Growth Potential: High, driven by trends in personalization and indulgent beverage options.

• Industry Trends: Rise of "dirty sodas" and similar customizable beverages; expansion of drive-through and mobile ordering services.

Competitor Analysis

• Sodalicious: A direct competitor offering similar "dirty soda" beverages; involved in a legal dispute with Swig over the trademark of "dirty soda."

• Fiiz Drinks: Provides customizable beverages; operates in overlapping markets with Swig.

• Thirst Drinks: Offers a range of specialty drinks; competes in the same regional markets.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

• Larry H. Miller Company: Majority stakeholder since 2022, providing capital and strategic direction.

• Savory Fund: Minority interest holder, contributing to operational expertise.

Operational Insights

• Competitive Positioning: Swig differentiates itself through its unique "dirty soda" offerings and rapid expansion strategy.

• Market Position: Strong in the western United States, with plans for national expansion.

• Competitive Advantages: Proprietary beverage customization software, strong brand identity, and loyal customer base.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

• Expansion into New Markets: Targeting states like Idaho, Texas, the Carolinas, and Florida.

• Product Innovation: Developing new beverage flavors and limited-time offerings to attract diverse customers.

• Technology Integration: Enhancing mobile ordering and loyalty programs to improve customer experience.

Contact Information

• Website: www.swigdrinks.com

• LinkedIn: Swig Drinks

• Facebook: Swig N Sweets