Cracker Barrel’s New Travel Dining Rule Sparks Debate

Lebanon, Tennessee – February 3, 2026 – Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, the iconic Southern comfort food chain headquartered in Lebanon, Tennessee, has introduced a new internal policy requiring corporate employees to prioritize dining at Cracker Barrel locations during business trips, according to a leaked memo first reported by The Wall Street Journal and covered widely across U.S. media.

The directive, part of broader cost-cutting efforts following challenges in 2025 including a controversial rebranding attempt and declining store traffic, states: “Employees are expected to dine at a Cracker Barrel store for all or the majority of meals while traveling, whenever practical based on location and schedule.”

This policy applies specifically to corporate staff on work-related travel and does not affect regular customer dining experiences or restaurant operations.

Highlights of the New Employee Dining Policy

• Primary Dining Requirement: Traveling employees must choose Cracker Barrel for most or all meals when a location is available and fits the schedule. Meals eaten elsewhere may not be fully reimbursable.
• Alcohol Policy Update: The company will no longer reimburse alcohol purchases on business trips unless pre-approved by senior leadership for specific occasions or paid personally by employees.
• Broader Cost Controls: The memo accompanies guidance to postpone non-essential travel and reduce overall travel expenses amid financial pressures.

The rule has generated significant online discussion, with some praising it as a smart way to reinforce brand loyalty internally and cut costs, while others criticize it as overly restrictive and removing a common perk of corporate travel.

Cracker Barrel has been navigating recovery efforts after a 2025 rebrand backlash that reportedly cost millions and contributed to slower sales growth. The company has since focused on menu classics, operational efficiencies, and returning to its core Southern hospitality identity to regain customer trust.

No official public statement from Cracker Barrel was included in the initial reports, but the policy aligns with industry-wide trends toward tighter expense management in the restaurant sector.

For the most recent Cracker Barrel updates, including menu changes, promotions, and corporate news straight from the U.S., keep checking ClickUSANews.com.

What are your thoughts on this new employee travel dining rule? Drop your comments below!

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