Cracker Barrel-owned chain closes 14 locations

Core Insights - Maple Street Biscuit Company, owned by Cracker Barrel, has closed over a dozen locations due to financial underperformance, impacting 14 locations during fiscal 2026 [1][2] - Cracker Barrel acquired Maple Street Biscuit Company in October 2019 for $36 million, and there are still more than 50 locations operational [2] - Cracker Barrel is facing backlash from a failed rebranding effort that included a logo redesign and store remodels, leading to a proxy battle from rival Steak 'n Shake to change the company's leadership [3][6] Financial Performance - Cracker Barrel reported a revenue decline of 2.9% in its latest quarter compared to the same period last year, with customer traffic down 8% since the introduction of a simplified logo in August [11] Marketing and Branding - The company acknowledged underestimating the emotional connection customers have with its nostalgic branding, leading to a quick reversal back to the "Old Timer" logo [5][6] - Cracker Barrel has begun reverting its four modernized test stores back to traditional interiors, emphasizing the brand's Americana décor [8]