(Courtesy Cracker Barrel)
A year after Cracker Barrel restaurants went woke by removing “Uncle Herschel” from its logo and remodeling many of its restaurants before public outrage forced the company to pull a U-turn, the CEO behind the changes is quitting the restaurant chain.
The company announced Monday that Julie Masino will step down as CEO and board member, effective Aug. 10, being replaced by David Deno, a restaurant executive who has served as CEO of Bloomin’ Brands, which owns Outback Steakhouse.
“Masino will remain with the company in an advisory capacity until Oct. 9, 2026 to support a smooth transition,” a Cracker Barrel news release indicated.
Carl Berquist, independent chairman of the Cracker Barrel board, thanked Masino “for her leadership and commitment to Cracker Barrel.
“We also appreciate her partnership to ensure a smooth leadership transition as we remain focused on the work underway to continue to serve our guests, support our employees, and execute our strategic priorities. We wish Julie all the best in her future endeavors.”
When the disastrous $700 million rebrand was first publicized last summer, Masino expressed breathless excitement, telling “Good Morning America”: “The feedback’s been overwhelmingly positive that people like what we’re doing.”
There was intense public backlash, with even President Donald Trump jumping into the fray, saying at the time: “Cracker Barrel should go back to the old logo, admit a mistake based on customer response (the ultimate Poll), and manage the company better than ever before. They got a Billion Dollars worth of free publicity if they play their cards right. Very tricky to do, but a great opportunity. Have a major News Conference today. Make Cracker Barrel a WINNER again.”
Cracker Barrel took a $100 million hit in its stock value amid the public furor.
Everybody listen to Baby Trump.
He is speaking truth about Cracker Barrel! pic.twitter.com/OV7ge7KEFO
— Melissa Redpill (@MelissaRedpill) August 23, 2025
As WorldNetDaily reported, the company responded to the outrage, indicating: “If the last few days have shown us anything, it’s how deeply people care about Cracker Barrel. We’re truly grateful for your heartfelt voices.
“You’ve also shown us that we could’ve done a better job sharing who we are and who we’ll always be.”
“What has not changed, and what will never change, are the values this company was built on when Cracker Barrel first opened in 1969: hard work, family, and scratch-cooked food made with care. A place where everyone feels at home, no matter where you’re from or where you’re headed.”
The company said “the things people love most about our stores aren’t going anywhere: rocking chairs on the porch, a warm fire in the hearth, peg games on the table, unique treasures in our gift shop, and vintage Americana with antiques pulled straight from our warehouse in Lebanon, Tennessee. We love seeing how much you care about our ‘old timer.’ We love him too.”
“While our logo and remodels may be making headlines, our bigger focus is still right where it belongs … in the kitchen and on your plate: serving generous portions of the food you crave at fair prices and doing it with the kind of country hospitality that brightens your days and creates lasting memories.”
“We know we won’t always get everything right the first time, but we’ll keep testing, learning, and listening to our guests and employees. At the end of the day, our promise is simple: you’ll always find comfort, community, and country hospitality here at Cracker Barrel.”
The controversy led to the creation of a song called: “Go Woke, Go Broke.”
Best song on the internet right now. Bar NONE!
pic.twitter.com/eWNCBjJLU6
— SaltyGoat (@SaltyGoat17) August 27, 2025
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[ H/T WorldNetDaily ]
