Cracker Barrel has announced it is suspending plans to remodel its restaurants, just weeks after reversing a logo change that sparked a political firestorm. The US southern-style restaurant chain faced intense backlash last month after unveiling a rebranding effort aimed at modernising its image, including a new minimalist logo and contemporary interiors.
The new logo replaced the brand's image of an old man in overalls leaning against a wooden barrel with a simplified gold background and the words 'Cracker Barrel' in minimalist lettering. The change was met with outrage from conservatives and far-right influencers, who accused the company of going 'woke'. The restaurant's stock dropped more than 10%, and even Donald Trump weighed in, urging Cracker Barrel to return to its old logo.
After restoring the old logo, the company said on Tuesday it was also shelving its interior redesign plans. 'Your Old Country Store is Here to Stay,' the company said in a statement. 'We're continuing to listen. Today, we're suspending our remodels. If your restaurant hasn't been remodeled, you don't need to worry, it won't be.'
Cracker Barrel said it had tested the new interior look in four of its 660 locations but would not be moving forward with the redesign. 'The vintage Americana you love will always be here – the rocking chairs on the porch, our fireplaces and peg games, unique treasures in our gift shop and antiques pulled straight from our warehouse in Lebanon, Tennessee,' the chain said.
