Obie Companies is committed to hard work, making a difference, creating opportunities, and leaving the world a better place. Its legacy is a work in progress. The joy is in the journey.
Obie Companies today can trace its roots to several successful local businesses that have one thing in common: Brian Obie.
Work in sales for his fathers sign company brought Obie to Eugene in the 1960s. In 1976 Obie became a founding partner and investor in the 5th Street Public Market in downtown Eugene, acquiring sole ownership in 1985.
Also in 1976 Obie was a founding director and chairman of what would become Centennial Bank. After it became publicly traded, Centennial was merged into Umpqua Bank, which today is Oregons largest state-chartered bank.
In 1987 Brian Obie founded Obie Media Corporation. By the time it went public and was listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange in 1996, Obie Media had 32 offices throughout the United States and Canada.
A strong business leader, Obie has been a strong community and civic leader as well. Beginning in 1970 he served variously on the Eugene Planning Commission and Eugene City Council, culminating in a term as mayor from 1985 to 1988. During his two terms as a University of Oregon Foundation trustee he served as president, and also was president of the Oregon Chapter of the Young Presidents Organization.
Obies grandson Casey Obie Barrett joined Obie Media in 2002, while he was still in high school. Today he is executive vice president of Obie Companies and leads many of the operating and development activities. The two have shared the experience and adventure of expanding the business. With offices just across the hall from one another, they collaborate throughout the day. Obie credits his grandson for doing the heavy lifting and providing excitement about the future.
Obie Companies today comprises the 5th Street Public Market and two hotels, and the company is growing.