Nixa is set to welcome a new beverage establishment, inspired by the vibrant trends of the ’80s and ’90s, at the former Canton Buffet location on 103 W. Mount Vernon St. Quenchers began in Aurora, offering a diverse menu of flavored sodas, loaded teas, and lemonades.
The goal is to have the drive-thru operational in downtown Nixa in time for Sucker Days, taking place from May 15 to 16. Customers can choose from a menu featuring roughly 80 drink options or personalize their selections with hundreds of flavor combinations, including energy drinks, tea, and sparkling water.
Founded by Tara and James Ackerman, Quenchers has expanded to three locations and employs around 35 “drink wizards” and staff members since its inception a year and a half ago.
“We’re growing like a weed,” remarked Dakoda Baxter, one of the licensees.
James Ackerman mentioned, “This marks our initial step into a larger market in Nixa, a significant location in the Ozarks.” The team is also considering opening a new Quenchers in Ozark soon.
‘No tips, just sips’
Nixa’s new Quenchers will introduce a walk-in option for customers, marking it as the brand’s most spacious storefront yet. Previously, Quenchers operated drink trucks in Mount Vernon and Monett, along with a modest brick-and-mortar venue of about 200 square feet in Aurora.
With a strong foundation, Ackerman noted the company’s ambitious plans for rapid expansion, as they aim to establish a presence in a market yet to fully embrace the trend of flavored sodas in the Midwest.
“The Baxters and the Ackermans are eager to grow quickly and stay ahead of the competition,” he stated.
The Baxter family became involved with Quenchers in August 2025, taking over the Monett location and also overseeing operations at the Nixa venue. Jason Baxter expressed enthusiasm about engaging with the local community.
The company emphasizes community involvement, often fundraising while ensuring patrons are not pressured for donations. Aligning with their motto of “No tips, just sips,” Quenchers declines any payments beyond menu costs.
Their operational hours are distinct, with stores open all seven days of the week, even during severe weather conditions, only closing in response to tornado sirens.
It’s been ‘gangbusters’ since last Christmas Eve
The idea for Quenchers emerged when the Ackermans sought a side project. James, previously senior associate vice president of Drury GO, and Tara, a teacher at Aurora’s Pate Early Childhood Center, decided to test the waters by launching a beverage truck during their Christmas break in 2024.
“We opened on Christmas Eve, and it took off from there,” James recalled. “It was a leap of faith, but it proved successful, with the community in Aurora showing tremendous support.
Key Takeaways
- Quenchers is opening a new beverage location in Nixa at the former Canton Buffet site.
- They offer a diverse menu of drinks, with around 80 options and customizations available.
- The Nixa store will be the first with walk-in service and the largest storefront so far.
- The company focuses on fundraising within the community without soliciting donations from customers.
- Quenchers operates every day of the year, with closures only for specific emergencies.
FAQ
What types of drinks does Quenchers offer?
Quenchers provides a variety of drinks, including flavored sodas, loaded teas, and lemonades, with numerous customization options.
When will the Nixa location open?
The Nixa drive-thru is expected to operate by Sucker Days on May 15 to 16.
What is the company’s motto?
Quenchers follows the motto “No tips, just sips,” emphasizing a no-pressure approach to payments.
Are Quenchers locations open year-round?
Yes, Quenchers locations are open 365 days a year, with limited closures for severe weather warnings.
As Quenchers prepares for its exciting debut in Nixa, it aims to provide a refreshing experience centered around community engagement and innovative beverage offerings. The future looks promising for this dynamic beverage brand.
