Cracker Barrel takes down pride page on website amid rebrand fiasco
Cracker Barrel has recently made changes to its website by removing the Pride page, a move that comes after facing criticism from consumers regarding its rebranding efforts.
Previously, the Pride page on Cracker Barrel’s website highlighted the company’s involvement in events like Pride parades and initiatives to support the LGBTQ community. However, the page now redirects to the “Culture and Belonging” section of the site.
On the updated page, Cracker Barrel emphasizes its commitment to inclusivity and welcoming all individuals who visit their establishments.
The company’s past support of LGBT causes, including sponsoring events like the Nashville Pride Parade and creating rainbow-colored rocking chairs for Pride month, has drawn scrutiny from conservative activists like Robby Starbuck and Chris Rufo.
Despite the backlash, Cracker Barrel continues to have an LGBTQ employee resource group known as the “LGBTQ+ Alliance,” in addition to groups for veterans and other communities.
Notably, the founder of Cracker Barrel’s LGBTQ group went on to serve on the Human Rights Campaign’s Business Advisory Council, which rates companies on their LGBT workplace policies through the Corporate Equality Index.
While some critics argue that the HRC uses the index to pressure companies into adopting progressive policies, Cracker Barrel has stated that it has not participated in the index or had any recent affiliation with the HRC.
Over the years, Cracker Barrel’s stance on LGBTQ issues has evolved, with the company receiving a score of zero on the first Corporate Equality Index in 2002 due to past discrimination against gay employees.
Despite past controversies, Cracker Barrel’s HRC score improved to 80 in 2021 following public pro-LGBTQ actions such as removing “Duck Dynasty” products from shelves and barring a pastor with anti-LGBT views from hosting an event at one of its locations.
The company’s recent efforts to rebrand its restaurants sparked consumer outrage, particularly with the introduction of a new modernist interior design and logo that deviated from its traditional Americana theme.
However, in response to feedback from customers, Cracker Barrel announced that it would revert to its original logo featuring “Uncle Herschel” and maintain its classic country hospitality charm.
Cracker Barrel expressed gratitude to its guests for their feedback and affirmed its commitment to providing delicious food and warm hospitality that feels like family.
