The story begins 50+ years ago
In 1968, Ed and Marie Weber began their journey with Taco Bell by purchasing their first restaurant in downtown Eugene, Oregon. Over the next three decades, they worked hard to build and operate several stores in the area while raising their four children.
In 1997, the Webers expanded to the Oregon Coast, acquiring two locations and establishing Weber Coastal Bells Limited Partnership. Their growth continued in 1999 when they added an 8-store package in the Portland area. By 2005, they ventured into Eastern Washington, purchasing six more locations and creating Columbia Bells.
As Columbia Bells grew, the Webers took the opportunity to expand further into Southern Oregon. Over time, their dedication and vision brought the two entities together, and today, the family proudly operates 44 restaurants.
That does not begin to tell the story, one that truly epitomizes the American Dream.
Ed was a Ukrainian immigrant who came to the United States as a teenager with his family. Marie was raised by the Catholic Church until she moved to Eugene to live with her father during her teenage years. The two met, married, and had four children.
Ed worked as a sheet metal worker and was involved in the construction of a new Taco Bell restaurant in town. When the restaurant owner decided to move back to Arizona, Ed and Marie saw a unique opportunity to own and operate their own business.
For Marie (deceased), it was more than just a business venture—it was a way to keep her family close. Their four children, Eddie (deceased), Dan, Theresa (deceased), and Joe, all grew up in the restaurants, filling hot sauce cups, sorting beans, and cleaning—wearing their polyester uniforms with pride. Ed and Marie’s vision of passing down their hard work and success to future generations was clear. Today, their third-generation team is in the works.
A successful family business also knows when to extend its reach, which is why the operations department is now led by Judith Boyd, Chief Operating Officer. Judith began with the Webers as a crew member during her teenage years. Over time, she managed a store, worked as an above-store leader, and even gained experience in human resources. In 2001, Judith became a partner and franchisee. As a seasoned leader, she has built and nurtured an incredible operations team that continues to drive the business forward.
