Cracker Barrel’s New Strategy to Attract Customers This Fall
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is revamping its approach to draw in diners this fall, especially after a challenging summer.
Months after facing backlash over a controversial logo that sparked criticism, the Southern dining chain is now offering free pancakes to NFL fans as a way to entice customers.
Last month, the brand launched a $5 All-You-Can-Camp Pancake Special in celebration of National Pancake Day, but a fresh promotion featuring pancakes is set to roll out in October.
As part of the “Bloctober” campaign—named after pancake blocks, a football move where the defender gets flattened like a flapjack—Cracker Barrel has teamed up with Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Quen Tunnelson to distribute game tickets to fans wearing their favorite NFL jerseys.
The menu has also seen some updates, bringing back beloved seasonal dishes. Uncle Herschel’s favorite breakfast has returned, and there’s now an option to upgrade to strip steak in New York. Other fall offerings include butter pecan French toast bake and hash brown casserole Shepherd’s pie.
Rachel Love, a self-described Cracker Barrel enthusiast from Tennessee, shared her thoughts with Fox News Digital. She feels there’s a positive shift back to the essence of what the chain used to represent.
“This is definitely what they need,” Love said, reflecting on previous criticisms she voiced in a viral social media post.
She added, “Forget the painted walls and dark decor. Just keep the menu filled with old favorites.” In her view, the combination of good food and a nostalgic atmosphere creates a warm and engaging experience—without these elements, it’s just another dining chain.
Love also mentioned that Hash Brown Casserole Shepherd’s Pie “didn’t disappoint,” recalling fond memories of family breakfasts. Her grandmother used to say, “It’s all breakfast except the kitchen sink.”
Meanwhile, Cracker Barrel is aiming to bounce back from a recent branding misstep. The redesign intended to modernize the chain’s image received a lot of backlash, leading to online criticism and even calls for boycotts. Since a July update featuring text-only logos, visits to their locations have reportedly dipped by about 8%.
While the company has not commented on these changes, it appears to be trying to reconnect with its customer base through comforting food, NFL themes, and incentives like prizes.
