Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc. has named restaurant industry veteran David Deno as its new chief executive, replacing Julie Masino roughly a year after a contentious logo redesign triggered a consumer backlash and a sharp decline in the company’s stock.
The leadership change caps a turbulent stretch for the Tennessee-based chain, known for its country-themed restaurants and adjoining retail stores across the United States. Deno, a former chief executive of Bloomin’ Brands, brings decades of experience across the food-service sector to the role.
The transition follows a widely publicized episode last year in which Cracker Barrel unveiled a simplified logo that stripped away the familiar image of an older man leaning against a barrel. The redesign drew immediate criticism from longtime customers who viewed it as an erasure of the brand’s heritage.
The company reversed the planned changes within days as sales dropped and public pressure mounted. The dispute drew national attention after U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in, adding his voice to the wave of opposition and amplifying the controversy across social media.
Masino had led the chain during the episode, which came as part of a broader effort to modernize the brand and appeal to younger diners. The reversal underscored the risks companies face when altering symbols with deep emotional resonance for their customer base.
Deno’s appointment signals a pivot toward stability and operational focus after a period of reputational strain. His background in scaling casual-dining brands is expected to shape the company’s next phase as it works to rebuild customer confidence and revive sales momentum.
The shake-up places Cracker Barrel among a growing list of consumer brands that have turned to seasoned outside executives to steer strategic resets amid shifting consumer preferences.
The company operates hundreds of locations nationwide and has faced mounting competition in the value-oriented dining segment, where traffic has softened for many chains.
Investors will be watching Deno’s early moves closely, particularly any adjustments to Cracker Barrel’s turnaround plan and its balance between honoring tradition and pursuing modernization. The company has yet to detail specific initiatives under the new leadership.