Former Berkshire Hathaway executive will lead the growing brand with majority investment from Savory Fund
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Swig, the quick-service brand known for its “dirty soda,” named Rian McCartan as its new CEO on Thursday. McCartan is the former vice president of global retail and real estate for See’s Candy, a Berkshire Hathaway company.
“I’m thrilled to have Rian McCartan as our new CEO,” Swig founder Nicole Tanner said in a statement. “We were looking for someone who would mix in well with our energetic culture and who was also willing to work alongside the team in our stores where all the magic happens. Rian is a perfect fit! With his driven leadership, amazing experience, and exceptional care, Rian will help lead Swig to our next level of success.”
McCartan has also held leadership positions with American Eagle Outfitters, Williams-Sonoma Inc., and Skechers U.S.A.
In June 2020, Swig received a majority investment from Savory Fund, a private equity group based in Salt Lake City with investments in nine emerging restaurant concepts.
“When I met the Savory team and the founding members of Swig, it was clear from day one that this was my future,” McCartan said in a statement. “The team’s level of innovation, commitment to quality, and intense focus on leading the customized beverage sector made this the easiest decision of my career. I am thrilled and grateful to be a part of the Savory family of companies.”
“After performing an extensive search across the country, it was a unanimous vote to have Rian be CEO of Swig,” said Savory’s managing director and cofounder, Andrew K. Smith, in a statement. “Rian is a branding expert who truly understands the guest experience. He has a love for fast-growing businesses, which he experienced with Skechers, Tecovas, and See’s Candy. With the growth Swig is going to experience in the coming years, we are excited to learn from Rian and watch his leadership further develop this great brand.”
Swig has 45 locations across five states with an additional five on the way this year.
The Savory Fund has invested in nine concepts — Swig, R&R BBQ, Pincho, Via 313 Pizzeria, The Crack Shack, Mo’ Bettahs Hawaiian Style Food, Saigon Hustle, Hash Kitchen, and The Sicilian Butcher — as well as equipment maintenance platform 86 Repairs.
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