Cracker Barrel is reacting to backlash.
The restaurant and store posted a statement in response to ongoing criticism regarding their franchise’s remodeling, including a new logo, new menu items, and a massive overhaul of their interior design.
If you didn’t know, the chain is originally inspired by old country stores, and was known for its cozy looking interiors, including old-looking brown walls and antiques.
The new look features white walls and modern light fixtures, and has drawn intense backlash for the severe shift in style.
Keep reading to find out more…
At the same time, CBS News reported that the company dropped almost $100 million in market value last week after its stock plunged following the release of the new logo, falling $4.22 (or 7.2%) to $54.80.
In a post on social media, Cracker Barrel is now addressing the outcry.
“A promise to OUR GUESTS,” the note began.
“If the last few days have shown us anything, it’s how deeply people care about Cracker Barrel. We’re truly grateful for your heartfelt voices. You’ve also shown us that we could’ve done a better job sharing who we are and who we’ll always be.”
“What has not changed, and what will never change, are the values this company was built on when Cracker Barrel first opened in 1969: hard work, family, and scratch-cooked food made with care. A place where everyone feels at home, no matter where you’re from or where you’re headed. That’s the Cracker Barrel you’ll always find,” the note went on to read.
“The things people love most about our stores aren’t going anywhere: rocking chairs on the porch, a warm fire in the hearth, peg games on the table, unique treasures in our gift shop, and vintage Americana with antiques pulled straight from our warehouse in Lebanon, Tennessee.”
They also addressed the change in the logo.
“We love seeing how much you care about our ‘old timer.’ We love him too. Uncle Herschel will still be on our menu (welcome back Uncle Herschel’s Favorite Breakfast Platter), on our road signs, and featured in our country store. He’s not going anywhere — he’s family.”
“While our logo and remodels may be making headlines, our bigger focus is still right where it belongs… in the kitchen and on your plate: serving generous portions of the food you crave at fair prices and doing it with the kind of country hospitality that brightens your days and creates lasting memories,” they continued.
“Meatloaf, chicken n’ dumplins, country fried steak, sides that taste like Sunday supper, and yes, the world’s best pancakes, they’re all still here, with a few new dishes joining the menu. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time guest, we want you to feel at home around our table. We also want to be sure Cracker Barrel is here for the next generation of families, just as it has been for yours. That means showing up on new platforms and in new ways, but always with our heritage at the heart.”
“We take that responsibility very seriously. We know we won’t always get everything right the first time, but we’ll keep testing, learning, and listening to our guests and employees. At the end of the day, our promise is simple: you’ll always find comfort, community, and country hospitality here at Cracker Barrel. Uncle Herschel wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Thank you for caring so much and come see for yourself the country hospitality that makes Cracker Barrel feel like home.”
The note has not gone over well. Popular comments include: “The biggest insult to your customers is acting like you hear them but doing the complete opposite,” and “We don’t want remodeled stores. We want the old rustic floors that creek as you step on them. We want to step into a restaurant that looks like it’s lit by oil lamps. We don’t want bright LED lit stores with modern art. I want to see rusty farm equipment all over the walls. I want it to look like the back of an old southern farmhouse.”
“Stop spitting in our faces and telling us it’s sweet tea. Bring back the old logo,” another comment reads: “‘we hear you, but we don’t care.’ Got it.”
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