Cracker Barrel has been in the news over the last year for all the wrong reasons. So it should come as no surprise to the restaurant's fans that its CEO, Julie Masino, is stepping down.
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Cracker Barrel CEO Steps Down
As reported by FOX Business, Masino's resignation will be effective on Aug. 10. She will remain an advisor with Cracker Barrel until Oct. 9. David Deno is replacing her.
"He brings decades of experience across the restaurant and retail industries, with a strong track record of leading businesses through growth and a demonstrated commitment to operational excellence, guest experience, and team member engagement," said Carl Berquist, the independent Chairman of the Cracker Barrel Board, in a statement.
He added, "We are confident David is the right leader to continue building on the Cracker Barrel legacy, drive further positive momentum operationally and financially, and create sustainable value for our shareholders."
Berquist also thanked Masino for "her leadership" and for ensuring "a smooth leadership transition."
Masino Attempted to Rebrand the Restaurant Last Year
Part of the charm of Cracker Barrel is that it is a throwback to a different time. However, Masino believed this made the chain "not as relevant" as it once was, so some locations underwent a drastic remodel.
Stores received brighter paint jobs, updated seating, and revamped decor. Instead of feeling nostalgic, the restaurants now looked modern and, frankly, uninspired.
The backlash from customers was swift, to say the least. No one liked it, with country stars like Jason Aldean and John Rich adding to the outcry on social media.
Then, last August, Cracker Barrel did away with its "Old Timer" logo for a simpler design. The outcry over the change was loud and strong, and the redesign was ditched after one week.
"We thank our guests for sharing your voices and love for Cracker Barrel. We said we would listen, and we have," the statement said. "Our new logo is going away and our 'Old Timer' will remain."
Several weeks after the logo was changed back, Cracker Barrel announced it would halt its remodels.
"If your restaurant hasn't been remodeled, you don't need to worry, it won't be," said a statement at the time.
In an interview in November, Masino acknowledged the backlash.
She said, "I feel like I've been fired by America."
