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“Pleasing People” has long been the mission for Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc.
The Lebanon, Tenn.-based family-dining chain says the philosophy is more than a statement, it’s a trademark.
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“Our success ultimately depends on our store employees providing excellent food, friendly service and quality merchandise in a warm and inviting atmosphere — all on a daily basis,” Cracker Barrel’s website states. “Pleasing People is all about mutual respect.”
From the rocking chairs on the front porch to the old country store retail and on into the homespun dining rooms, Cracker Barrel aims to be a pleasant escape to gentler times.
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But executives keep a sharp eye on what customers want.
“As consumer needs evolve and they redefine their personal view of value in this highly promotional environment, we must be responsive and more aggressive in our approach to value,” said Sandra Cochran, president and CEO, in a September earnings call. About 100 restaurants are testing new everyday-value platforms that include a loaded macaroni ‘n’ cheese dinner priced at $7.99.
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