Brittany and Jason Aldean, the celebrated country music couple, opted to dine at a different restaurant for their breakfast date instead of Cracker Barrel, following backlash over the chain’s recent logo change. Brittany shared her experience on Instagram, expressing her preference for Cracker Barrel but acknowledging the controversy around the new design. The couple’s decision highlights the growing public discontent with the fast-food chain’s decision to replace its iconic Uncle Herschel logo with a text-only design, a move that has sparked online outrage and prompted a wave of customer backlash and support for local businesses.
Cracker Barrel’s new logo, which has been met with strong criticism, features a simplified “Cracker Barrel” sign, removing the beloved Uncle Herschel image that had symbolized the brand for decades. Many customers have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction, with some vowing not to return to the chain. One user wrote, “Love it!! We won’t be back either,” while another stated, “We will also be supporting our local business coffee shops instead.” The backlash has been particularly visible on social platforms, where many have expressed their disappointment with the perceived loss of the brand’s identity.
Despite the criticism, Cracker Barrel has defended the change, stating that the company’s values and commitment to community remain intact. A representative for the chain explained that the new design is “anchored in Cracker Barrel’s signature gold and brown tones” and “rooted even more closely to the iconic barrel shape and word mark that started it all.” However, many fans argue that the new logo has distanced the brand from its roots, leading some to question whether the change has adequately captured the spirit and legacy of the original design.
As the debate over the logo change continues, the Aldeans’ choice to avoid Cracker Barrel has been seen as a reflection of the broader sentiment among consumers. While no direct financial impact has been reported, the controversy underscores the importance of brand identity in maintaining customer loyalty. The incident also highlights the growing trend of consumers opting to support local businesses over national chains, a shift that could have long-term implications for corporate branding strategies.