Cracker Barrel CEO Opens Up About Big Changes Coming to the Chain
Change can sometimes feel unsettling, especially at a restaurant known for its antique decor and rustic charm. But as with anything, mixing things up can be good, even if it doesn't feel that way at first.
For Cracker Barrel, the decision to introduce a more modern aesthetic has left customers divided. Yet, as CEO Julie Felss Masino shared in a Good Morning America interview, the new look is catching on with customers.
Catch the clip in this video from August 19:
Recently, Cracker Barrel began renovating its stores with brighter paint, updated light fixtures, and fewer antiques on the walls. While initial reactions were mixed, Masino reports the changes are now getting rave reviews.The CEO told Michael Strahan on GMA, "The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive." She reveals that just last week, at a manager's meeting in Orlando, Florida, she was asked by multiple attendees when their stores would be scheduled for the remodel, as the 40 stores that have already been updated are earning high praise from both fans and employees.
Cracker Barrel was founded in 1969 by Dan Evins in Lebanon, Tennessee. By 1981, the chain went public to fund further growth. Today, it operates nearly 660 locations across 44 states.
Sometimes, we resist changing the spaces we know and love. But once we get used to the idea, it's easier to embrace. After all, if the food and gift shop continue to offer everything we adore, there's nothing wrong with a little modern twist on a place that often feels like home.
Cracker Barrel CEO Opens Up About Big Changes Coming to the Chain first appeared on Parade on Aug 19, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
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Cracker Barrel CEO Opens Up About Big Changes Coming to the Chain originally appeared on Parade. Change can sometimes feel unsettling, especially at a restaurant known for its antique decor and rustic charm. But as with anything, mixing things up can be good, even if it doesn't feel that way at first. For Cracker Barrel, the decision to introduce a more modern aesthetic has left customers divided. Yet, as CEO Julie Felss Masino shared in a Good Morning America interview, the new look is catching on with customers. Catch the clip in this video from August 19: Recently, Cracker Barrel began renovating its stores with brighter paint, updated light fixtures, and fewer antiques on the walls. While initial reactions were mixed, Masino reports the changes are now getting rave CEO told Michael Strahan on GMA, "The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive." She reveals that just last week, at a manager's meeting in Orlando, Florida, she was asked by multiple attendees when their stores would be scheduled for the remodel, as the 40 stores that have already been updated are earning high praise from both fans and employees. Cracker Barrel was founded in 1969 by Dan Evins in Lebanon, Tennessee. By 1981, the chain went public to fund further growth. Today, it operates nearly 660 locations across 44 states. Sometimes, we resist changing the spaces we know and love. But once we get used to the idea, it's easier to embrace. After all, if the food and gift shop continue to offer everything we adore, there's nothing wrong with a little modern twist on a place that often feels like home. Cracker Barrel CEO Opens Up About Big Changes Coming to the Chain first appeared on Parade on Aug 19, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
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