Cracker Barrel took in the feedback, tapped their chest and said, “My bad.”
But that doesn’t mean the old logo will return.
A statement from the restaurant concedes they could’ve done better in preparing diners for the sign makeover. It’s going to be full speed ahead with the changes, however, with a couple concessions.
“Uncle Herschel will still be on our menu … on our road signs and featured in our country store,” the message to social media reads.
“He’s not going anywhere — he’s family.”
Cracker Barrel Controversy Explained:
- Cracker Barrel revealed a new logo and updated stores and restaurants last Tuesday (Aug. 19).
- Many people turned to social media to express rage or disappointment that the man they’d called Uncle Herschel was gone from the sign.
- After a steep drop in the company’s stock price, it has leveled off at about a 10 percent total loss.
Related: Cracker Barrel Stock Bashing Is Short-Sighted
Cracker Barrel’s Response to the Controversy
The last half of Cracker Barrel’s considerable response works to ensure people that the food, portions and commitment to country living will not change with the new logo and coat of paint.
Early on they seem to be saying, “Hey, you know me! I’m the same person, just in different clothes.”
“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.”
The business tried to cross a bridge between generations, noting the importance of bringing these items and values to a new audience. This means “showing up on new platforms” (yes, the Barrel is on TikTok),” they say.
Unsaid is that it also means a store that looks more like Pottery Barn than Mamaw’s house.
“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.”
Here is Cracker Barrel’s full statement:
The number of influencers weighing in on the changes is growing, with most indicating they won’t return to dine at the restaurant.
Jason Aldean and his wife Brittany are part of the no-go backers.
On Monday (Aug. 25), Taste of Country asked fans on Facebook for feedback. It was pretty decisive:
PICTURES: Country Stars Who Went Bankrupt
There’s an old saying that it’s easy to make a million dollars in the music business, but it’s hard to hold on to one dollar. These country stars found that out the hard way when they ended up going bankrupt.
Gallery Credit: Sterling Whitaker
See the Most Played Country Song from the Year You Were Born
Who had the most played country song during the year you were born? This list is a fascinating time capsule of prevalent trends from every decade in American history. Scroll through to find your birth year and then click to listen. Some of these songs have been lost through the years, many of them for good reason!
Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes
