This story was originally published by the WND News Center.
As Americans express outrage at Cracker Barrel for removing "Uncle Herschel" and his barrel from its logo, the restaurant chain is now admitting it "could've done a better job sharing who we are and who we'll always be."
The company issued a statement Monday, indicating: "If the last few days have shown us anything, it's how deeply people care about Cracker Barrel. We're truly grateful for your heartfelt voices.
"You've also shown us that we could've done a better job sharing who we are and who we'll always be."
"What has not changed, and what will never change, are the values this company was built on when Cracker Barrel first opened in 1969: hard work, family, and scratch-cooked food made with care. A place where everyone feels at home, no matter where you're from or where you're headed."
The company says "the things people love most about our stores aren't going anywhere: rocking chairs on the porch, a warm fire in the hearth, peg games on the table, unique treasures in our gift shop, and vintage Americana with antiques pulled straight from our warehouse in Lebanon, Tennessee. We love seeing how much you care about our 'old timer.' We love him too."
"While our logo and remodels may be making headlines, our bigger focus is still right where it belongs … in the kitchen and on your plate: serving generous portions of the food you crave at fair prices and doing it with the kind of country hospitality that brightens your days and creates lasting memories."
The company says it wants to be certain "Cracker Barrel is here for the next generation of families, just as it has been for yours. That means showing up on new platforms and in new ways, but always with our heritage at the heart.
"We take that responsibility very seriously. We know we won't always get everything right the first time, but we'll keep testing, learning, and listening to our guests and employees. At the end of the day, our promise is simple: you'll always find comfort, community, and country hospitality here at Cracker Barrel."
Also on Monday, reports emerged that one of Cracker Barrel's board members, Gilbert Davila, has been pushing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for years, including as vice president of Global Diversity and Multicultural Market Development at the Walt Disney Company.
As WorldNetDaily reported last week, Cracker Barrel "shed almost $100 million in market value after its stock plunged … following the release of a new logo," according to CBS News.
