Cracker Barrel bans alcohol, mandates in-house dining

Cracker Barrel is enforcing new travel policies for its employees as the company faces financial challenges. Staff on business trips are now expected to dine at Cracker Barrel for most meals, a change that removes a previous perk of corporate travel. Furthermore, the reimbursement of alcohol expenses has been prohibited, with exceptions requiring senior executive approval.

These strict regulations are part of a broader cost-saving initiative. The chain has experienced declining sales and foot traffic, exacerbated by a recent rebranding effort that led to substantial market value loss and public backlash. The company was forced to reverse significant aspects of the rebrand.

Employee sentiment suggests these new rules reflect a company-wide effort to cut expenses. This follows a trend across corporate America where travel budgets are being tightened, with employees facing restrictions on hotel choices and meal expenses. The chain's efforts to modernize its image and menu also faced criticism from long-time customers.