MIDDLETOWN, N.Y., Oct. 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Orange County Bancorp, Inc. announced today that Hudson Valley Investment Advisors (HVIA) is rebranding as Orange Investment Advisors to create a streamlined experience for clients and staff and a single, synergistic brand with Orange Bank & Trust Company (Orange Bank). “We want to assure all clients that while the name is changing, your advisory team, investment strategy, investment philosophy, and the investment committee will remain the same,” said Mark ...

RSA Insurance has officially rebranded to Intact Insurance across Ireland, the UK and Europe.The insurance company said the brand change unites the companies under a single global brand, reflecting a shared purpose, values, and bold growth ambitions.Intact Financial Corporation (IFC) is Canada's largest provider of property and casualty insurance, a specialty lines insurer with international expertise, and a leader in commercial lines in the UK and Ireland.It has a global workforce of 31,000 employees, incl ...

Core Insights - Cracker Barrel's recent rebranding effort has faced significant backlash, leading to a reversal of the new logo and remodeling plans shortly after their announcement [4][5][8] - Despite reporting a 5.4% increase in comparable store restaurant sales and a 4.4% revenue gain in Q4 2025, these results were achieved before the rebranding announcement [3][4] - The company is now experiencing a decline in foot traffic, with an expected drop of 4% to 7% year-end, and is guiding total revenue between $3.35 billion and $3.45 billion [5][6] Financial Performance - Cracker Barrel ended the fiscal year with a revenue of $3.5 billion, hitting the high end of guidance, and an adjusted EBITDA of $224.3 million, up 9% [3] - Following the rebranding announcement, the company's stock price fell nearly 18%, closing at $49.55 before the earnings release, with an additional 9% drop in after-hours trading [7] Customer Engagement and Loyalty - The company has gained 400,000 new loyalty members since early August, with 300,000 joining after the rebranding controversy [6] - Loyalty members now account for approximately 35% of sales, indicating a strong customer base despite recent challenges [6] Strategic Missteps - The rebranding was based on extensive research, but the management failed to understand customer sentiment, leading to a strong negative response [8][10] - The company is launching a "Front Porch Feedback" program to gather customer input, but skepticism remains regarding the effectiveness of this initiative [9] Market Trends and Consumer Behavior - Research indicates that consumers are seeking stability and trust from brands, which Cracker Barrel misinterpreted in its rebranding strategy [11][12] - Gen Z customers value a balance between innovation and comfort, suggesting that Cracker Barrel should lean into its nostalgic appeal rather than overhaul its brand [13][14] Recovery Outlook - Experts believe Cracker Barrel has the potential to recover its reputation and enhance perceptions of food quality and value [16] - However, doubts exist regarding the leadership's ability to anticipate and address future challenges effectively [17][18]

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc. slumped after its sales guidance missed expectations, showing the brand is still dealing with the fallout from its controversial and short-lived logo change. Most Read from Bloomberg Revenue in fiscal 2026, which will run through next July, is projected to be in a range of $3.35 billion to $3.45 billion, the company said in a statement Wednesday. Analysts were expecting sales of $3.52 billion in the period, according to the average of estimates compiled by Bloomberg. ...

LOGIN SUBSCRIBE | FastCo Works advertisement Cracker Barrel plans to tread carefully for future changes and will introduce a new "front porch feedback†plan to check in with its customers more often. Subscribe to the Daily newsletter.Fast Company's trending stories delivered to you every day Privacy Policy | Fast Company Newsletters Masino said that while "traffic is down since 8/19†—the day of the infamous rebrand—loyalty signups are soaring. Impact from the backlash expected BY Taylor Hatmaker Listen to ...

Core Viewpoint - Cracker Barrel's recent logo redesign has sparked significant consumer backlash, leading to calls for the company to revert to its previous logo, which featured a man leaning on a barrel, as critics argue the new text-only logo abandons the brand's classic Southern identity [1][2]. Group 1: Consumer Reaction - President Trump suggested Cracker Barrel could earn substantial publicity by reverting to its old logo, emphasizing the importance of customer feedback [1]. - The company acknowledged the backlash, expressing gratitude for customer engagement and admitting it could have communicated its identity better [1]. - Many consumers criticized the new logo on social media, with comments indicating a strong sentiment against the change, including calls to restore the old logo [4][6]. Group 2: Company Strategy - Cracker Barrel's logo redesign is part of a broader brand refresh aimed at attracting younger customers and revitalizing the brand post-COVID-19 pandemic, as the company has struggled to regain its older customer base [7]. - The company has been remodeling stores to create a more modern atmosphere, with plans to update 25 to 30 of its 660 locations by the end of summer 2024 [7]. - The CEO, who took office in August 2023, stated that the brand is not as relevant as it once was and is focusing on new menu items and a refreshed dining experience [7]. Group 3: Criticism and Backlash - Prominent conservative figures and social media accounts have united against the new logo, labeling it as a move towards "wokeness" and drawing comparisons to other brands that faced backlash for similar reasons [6][8]. - The company has previously faced criticism for its support of LGBTQ initiatives, indicating a history of contentious interactions with conservative audiences [8].

Core Viewpoint - Cracker Barrel is facing backlash over its new logo, prompting calls for a return to the old logo from notable figures, including President Donald Trump, who suggests that the company should manage its brand better in light of customer feedback [1][2]. Brand Response and Customer Sentiment - Cracker Barrel has acknowledged that it "could've done a better job" in communicating its brand identity after receiving significant customer outrage regarding the new logo [7][8]. - The company claims that 87% of respondents in their research either loved or liked the new logo, indicating a divide in customer sentiment [10]. Historical Context and Brand Evolution - The original logo from 1969 was text-only, and the addition of iconic imagery in 1977 became a staple of the brand's identity [8]. - The updated logo is described as being more closely aligned with the iconic barrel shape and word mark that initiated the brand [6]. Company Positioning and Future Strategy - Cracker Barrel has emphasized that Uncle Herschel remains a central figure in its restaurants and menu, representing the foundation of its hospitality approach [11]. - The company has expressed gratitude for customer feedback, highlighting the importance of community and connection in its brand ethos [8][13].

Group 1 - Vera Bradley's Q1 2026 results were significantly poor, aligning with prior warnings issued in January regarding a complete brand overhaul that has alienated customers [1] - The company is now facing increased financial risks as a result of its operational changes [1] Group 2 - The investment approach discussed focuses on long-term operational aspects rather than market-driven dynamics, emphasizing the importance of understanding a company's earnings power and competitive dynamics [1]

Core Insights - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Inc. is launching its first fully redesigned store in Charleston, South Carolina, on June 3, 2025, marking its entry into the state and initiating a nationwide brand transformation [1][5] Company Expansion - The new store is operated by experienced franchisees Ross and Mackenzie Theesen, along with local operator Mike Hill, highlighting their commitment to the brand and its future [2] - This opening is part of a broader strategy to refresh nearly 150 locations across the U.S. and nearly 100 co-branded stores with Cold Stone Creamery [4] Brand Transformation - The Charleston store features a reimagined design, updated logo, fresh packaging, and a new color palette, reflecting the company's vision for the future [3] - The transformation also includes a relaunch of RMCF's E-Commerce channels with a redesigned website and cohesive brand messaging [4] Market Strategy - Charleston was chosen for its cultural heritage and tourism, aligning with the company's growth strategy targeting major metropolitan areas [5] - The long-term goal is to exceed $100 million in annual retail sales [5] Store Operations - The Charleston location will operate daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, offering a full assortment of handcrafted chocolates and confections [6] Company Background - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory has been producing premium chocolates since 1981 and operates nearly 260 stores across the U.S. and internationally [7]

Core Viewpoint - Shock Top, a craft beer brand under Tilray Brands, Inc., is undergoing a significant rebranding effort to attract a new generation of beer drinkers with modern packaging, a new logo, and an integrated marketing campaign [1][5]. Group 1: Rebranding and Marketing Strategy - The rebrand introduces a new visual identity featuring the Wedgehead icon, designed to be bolder and more contemporary, symbolizing an uplifting experience [2]. - Shock Top's beer lineup will be refreshed, starting with the Belgian White and including seasonal favorites like Cosmic Berry and Lemonade Shandy, all featuring vibrant visuals [4]. - The marketing strategy includes digital media investments, partnerships with universities, and in-stadium experiences to engage new consumers [5][6]. Group 2: Market Positioning - The rebranding comes at a time when consumers are leaning towards above-premium options, positioning Shock Top to appeal to both loyal fans and new drinkers seeking unique flavors [5]. - The brand aims to grow its market share by embracing unexpected flavors and experiences, aligning with current consumer trends [5]. Group 3: Company Background - Shock Top was founded in 2006 with the launch of its Belgian White Ale and is known for its bold flavors and fun approach to brewing [7]. - Tilray Brands, Inc. operates globally in the lifestyle and consumer packaged goods sector, focusing on innovative products that create memorable experiences [8].