Brand Barrel crushing She returned to the center of discussion in the United States after her CEO, Julie MasinoShe admitted that public disapproval of the logo redesign and changes to her restaurants’ aesthetics made her feel as if she had been “kicked out by America.”
The executive spoke about the issue in a recent interview with Glenn Beck for The Blaze, in which she reviewed the emotional and business impact of the controversy that reportedly erupted months ago. New York Post.
Massino continues to lead the series, something Beck himself highlighted. The driver asked her if she was surprised that she continued in her position after the conflict, and she replied that, in addition to maintaining her position, she had a feeling that she had been given a chance. Massive rejection by customers and brand followers. He said it with humor, but the image reflected the pressure that had built up around the company. “I feel like I was kicked out by the United States,” she said.
The conflict arose in August, when Cracker Barrel unveiled a redesign that changed the classic image of the logo, historically associated with “Uncle Hershel“, sitting on a chair with his arm resting on a barrel. The company also introduced a more modern model of atmosphere in its stores, which sparked complaints from more traditional followers according to New York Post.
Masino explained that the main goal was never to modify the essence of the restaurant, but rather to improve the visitor experience. The executive confirmed that the changes arose after receiving feedback from customers who described the building as too dark and uncomfortable. According to his account, the goal sought to provide an accessible environment, add comfort and make the menus easier to read, without breaking the historical identity. “There was nothing further from our intent than to redesign Cracker Barrel from the ground up,” he said.
Cracker Barrel CEO says she felt like she was ‘fired by America’ after redesign backlash https://t.co/lpH8HQg4YA pic.twitter.com/ej7SmE2efX
– New York Post (@nypost) November 26, 2025
In the interview, Masino also expressed his regret for the public’s anger. He stated that the company “did not seek to upset anyone.” She and her team want customers to feel the same appreciation for the brand that has accompanied generations of families in the country. “It pains us that some people have experienced things differently.“, He said.
“This is a humble brand with humble origins right here in the heart of this great country,” Massino said. “You go to other brands, you sit down, and as you look around and see things on the walls, you realize the history of the brand. They tell you about the ingredients. They tell you about their underpinnings, whatever they want you to think about. We don’t do that here at Cracker Barrel… that’s US history,” he concluded.