Cracker Barrel found itself in hot water after unveiling a new minimalist logo that stripped away beloved symbols, including the iconic "Uncle Herschel," igniting a firestorm of criticism from loyal customers and cultural commentators alike.
Former President Donald Trump weighed in, labeling the redesign as "woke" and calling for the company to revert to its original branding, amplifying the backlash on social media.
In the wake of customer outrage and a significant drop in company value, Cracker Barrel announced a swift return to its cherished "Old Timer" logo, signaling a concession to public sentiment.
Co-founder Tommy Lowe openly denounced the rebrand as “pitiful,” resonating with the frustration of many long-time fans who felt disconnected from the new image.
The controversy extended beyond logo design; Cracker Barrel took action to remove references to diversity and inclusion from its website, reflecting a broader shift in its corporate messaging.
This saga has underscored how modern businesses navigate the complex waters of consumer expectations and cultural values, reminding them of the delicate balance between innovation and tradition.