Cracker Barrel CEO exits after rebrand backlash rocked chain

Cracker Barrel said CEO Julie Masino will leave in August, less than a year after a rebrand overhaul drew a fierce customer backlash and the company reversed key changes. Former Bloomin' Brands chief David Deno is set to take over, while Masino will remain through early October to help with the transition. The Tennessee-based restaurant chain, which operates nearly 660 locations in 44 states, had tried to modernize its logo, store interiors and menu as part of a broader overhaul. Critics said the redesign stripped away the brand's nostalgic identity, and the company later restored the older look. The leadership change comes as Cracker Barrel faces falling sales, slower customer traffic and rising costs. Its shares dropped more than 2% Monday and remain about 20% below a year ago.