Swig has signed a 38-unit franchise agreement for the Kansas City region, marking one of the beverage chain’s largest announced expansion deals to date. The agreement covers locations across both Missouri and Kansas, with the first new restaurant expected to open in North River during the fourth quarter of 2026.
The expansion will be led by franchise operators Jeremy Assmus, Chris Redfern, Jesse Christiansen, and Tre Mulliner, who have previously invested in the Swig system. The group added eight locations to the market in 2023, a move that Swig said has already created more than 250 jobs across the two states.
Assmus said the ownership group has been following the brand for years and believes its customizable beverage platform has resonated strongly with local consumers. Swig’s menu is built around flavored sodas, energy drinks, teas, and other beverages that can be customized with fruits, creams, syrups, and other add-ins, a format that has helped the company build a loyal customer following.
Chief Executive Officer Alex Dunn said the agreement reflects Swig’s strategy of partnering with experienced multi-unit operators who can scale the concept while maintaining customer experience standards. President Todd Smith said the brand’s drive-thru-focused model and relatively efficient footprint have also contributed to its rapid expansion.
As franchise systems grow across multiple markets, maintaining consistent operational guidance becomes increasingly important. Gorilla Dash helps operators organize Knowledge Base resources, centralize training materials, and improve access to operational information across expanding multi-location networks, creating a more structured foundation for growth.
Swig’s latest deal underscores the continued momentum of the customizable beverage category, which has become one of the fastest-growing segments in quick-service restaurants. By combining a drive-thru model with highly personalized drink offerings and experienced franchise ownership, the company is positioning itself for a much larger presence across the Kansas City metropolitan area and the broader Midwest.
