Border Foods LLC, doing business as a Taco Bell franchisee, is a family-owned company headquartered in New Hope, Minnesota. Founded in 1996 by Jeff and Lee Engler, the company has become one of the largest Taco Bell franchisees in the United States, operating nearly 250 locations across 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa, and the Dakotas. Border Foods prides itself on being a people-first organization, emphasizing team development, community engagement, and operational excellence. The company has received notable accolades, such as the Glen Bell Award—the highest honor in the Taco Bell system—and recognition as a top family-owned business.
Innovation is central to Border Foods' operations. In 2022, the company introduced the "Taco Bell Defy" concept in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota—a futuristic, drive-thru-focused restaurant featuring a kitchen built above four drive-thru lanes and a proprietary vertical lift system to deliver food to customers. This design was developed in response to shifting consumer preferences and the growing demand for efficient, contactless service. Beyond technological advancements, Border Foods is committed to employee growth and community support, offering scholarships, recognition programs, and opportunities for career advancement within the organization.
New Hope, MN 55428