Cracker Barrel has announced it will return to its original "Old Timer" logo after facing significant backlash from customers and public figures. The decision was made public on August 26, following criticism of a new logo introduced just a week earlier.

The restaurant chain, known for its comfort food and nostalgic ambiance, had unveiled a simplified logo on August 19 as part of a campaign for its fall menu. The company aimed to modernize its brand and move away from its traditional decor. However, the change was met with sharp criticism from both customers and politicians, including former President Donald Trump, who expressed his disapproval on social media.

In a statement, Cracker Barrel said, "We thank our guests for sharing your voices and love for Cracker Barrel. We said we would listen, and we have. Our new logo is going away and our 'Old Timer' will remain." The company acknowledged the strong feelings from its customer base, stating, "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."

The backlash included comments from various individuals, including Senator Marsha Blackburn, who praised the decision to revert to the old logo. She stated, "Kudos to their team for making a great decision and may many happy memories and delicious meals continue for the next generation."

The logo change also had financial implications for Cracker Barrel. Following the announcement of the new logo, the company's stock dropped by 7% on August 21. However, after the decision to revert to the old logo, the stock saw a recovery, rising over 9.5% in after-hours trading on August 26.

Critics of the new logo had expressed concerns that the changes made Cracker Barrel feel less unique. One customer remarked, "Cracker Barrel always stood out for its uniqueness, but now it’s nothing more than a Denny’s with a gift shop."

The swift response from Cracker Barrel highlights the importance of customer feedback in the branding process. The company’s decision to revert to the "Old Timer" logo reflects its commitment to maintaining its traditional identity.