Following 20 consecutive quarters of industry-leading sales growth, Taco Bell is reinvesting in the 250,000+ U.S. team members powering its success. The company is rolling out expanded leadership programs, best-in-class benefits, and new education pathways, proving its belief that a great customer experience can never exceed the team member experience.
The investments are already showing significant results. In 2025, in company-owned restaurants, team member retention improved by 17% year-over-year, and restaurant General Manager vacancies were reduced by 27%.
“I started my career on the frontline of restaurants, and I’ve seen firsthand how the right support can open doors that once felt out of reach,” said Jamie Harrison, Global Chief People & Culture Officer at Taco Bell. “No matter how long a Team Member is with us, we want their time at Taco Bell to be meaningful. We’re proud to invest in their future, regardless of where their path takes them1.”
“Tacos & Tuition” for All
The cornerstone of the new investment is a major expansion of Taco Bell’s signature “Tacos and Tuition” education benefit. For the first time, the program has been extended to employees of all levels at participating franchise locations, dramatically increasing its reach beyond previously eligible company-owned restaurant members and corporate employees.
Through a new partnership with InStride, participating team members gain access to over 3,000 online programs and courses from top institutions. These range from ESL and GED programs to bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Crucially, the program removes financial barriers by not requiring any up-front out-of-pocket costs for learners.
The impact is already clear: “Tacos & Tuition” has driven 73% retention on the front line, and managers enrolled in the program are seeing 1.5x higher retention rates.
Building Leaders from Within
Beyond tuition, Taco Bell is focused on creating clear paths for advancement.
- theLeap: A new leadership development program has been launched for high-performing restaurant General Managers and Area Coaches. Over 150 leaders are currently enrolled in the 6-month program, which prepares rising talent for their next role.
- Live Más Scholarship: The Taco Bell Foundation awarded a record $14 million in Live Más Scholarships this year to over 1,000 students, including team members and fans.
This focus on internal growth is a key part of the brand’s strategy. In 2025, 67% of restaurant leadership roles at company-owned locations were filled through internal promotions. This has helped create long-term careers, with the average General Manager serving a 10+ year tenure with the brand.
Rewarding Hospitality and Excellence
The company is also piloting enhanced hospitality service models in select restaurants, including its Live Más Café locations. These initiatives provide immersive training to empower team members and elevate the guest experience. Early results are promising, with some locations seeing up to 3% higher transaction growth.
To recognize its top talent, Taco Bell hosts the annual Golden Bell celebration in Hawaii—an all-expenses-paid, week-long trip for the system’s top-performing General Managers and Area Coaches. The event, which has run for over 20 years, celebrates those who have shown exceptional leadership and operational excellence.