Introduction to Cracker Barrel’s Modern Remodel
With its signature rocking chairs, old-fashioned gift shop and famous pancakes, Cracker Barrel has given Americans a taste of southern comfort for decades. But a recent change — a modern makeover in a number of locations — has drawn mixed reactions, with some embracing the new feel.
Customer Reactions to the Modern Remodel
"The paint colors, just so much lighter, and I think it’s so much better," one customer said in a video posted on social media. The new aesthetic, however, has drawn the ire of a number of devoted customers, many of whom shared their comments on social media. "The inside remodel, Cracker Barrel for real, you’re losing your feel," another customer said in a video. One social media user commented, "I’m sorry, but it [the remodel] looks horrible." "It completely destroys the atmosphere that we go to Cracker Barrel for," the individual stated.
Jeff Greenberg / Getty Images
Customers dine in a Cracker Barrel restaurant with the chain’s classic interior.
Cracker Barrel’s Response to the Remodel
Cracker Barrel has said only about 30 of its 600-plus restaurants will receive a full remodel. In a statement, the chain stated "feedback from both guests and team members has been overwhelmingly positive… The strong performance of these locations affirms that we are moving in the right direction." In an interview last summer, Cracker Barrel’s CEO told CNBC the transformation is part of a multi-year brand refresh.
Cracker Barrel
Industry Expert Insights
"Our goal is to take what people love about Cracker Barrel and open the aperture a little bit so more people love Cracker Barrel," said Julie Masino, CEO and president. "We want to appeal to all generations." While Cracker Barrel tests its refreshed look, industry experts told TODAY it’s a gamble catering to changing appetites without leaving a bad taste in the mouths of loyal customers. Other restaurants, including Denny’s, Burger King and Popeyes, have all recently unveiled modern refreshes. "You don’t want to eat somewhere where the carpet is from the 1980s," said Jonathan Maze, editor-in-chief of Restaurant Business Magazine. "The look and feel of a restaurant, because customers are spending money going there, is vital."
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel’s modern remodel has drawn mixed reactions from customers, with some embracing the new feel and others feeling that it destroys the atmosphere that they love about the chain. While the company has stated that the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, it remains to be seen how the remodel will affect the chain’s loyal customer base. The CEO has reassured customers that the rocking chairs and gift shop aren’t going anywhere, but the full extent of the multi-year plan is unclear.
FAQs
Q: How many Cracker Barrel locations will receive a full remodel?
A: About 30 of the 600-plus locations will receive a full remodel.
Q: What is the goal of Cracker Barrel’s modern remodel?
A: The goal is to take what people love about Cracker Barrel and open the aperture a little bit so more people love Cracker Barrel, and to appeal to all generations.
Q: What do industry experts think about the remodel?
A: Industry experts think that it’s a gamble catering to changing appetites without leaving a bad taste in the mouths of loyal customers.
Q: Will the rocking chairs and gift shop be removed?
A: No, the CEO has reassured customers that the rocking chairs and gift shop aren’t going anywhere.
