Cracker Barrel Announces Closing of Select California Locations, Victorville NOT Closing – VVNG.com

VICTORVILLE, California (VVNG.com) – In a surprising move that has sparked debate across the hospitality and retail industries, popular American restaurant and gift store chain Cracker Barrel has announced Old Country Store, Inc. announced the upcoming closure of several of its California locations.

The decision, which is attributed to strategic realignment and optimization efforts, aims to strengthen the company’s operational efficiency and overall financial health.

According to their Google listings, the Sacramento and Santa Maria sites are marked “permanently closed.” Additional closures include their locations in Medford, Oregon, and Columbia, South Carolina.

Notably, the Medford closure marks the company’s complete withdrawal from Oregon, following the closure of three additional locations there in March 2023.

Impact on the community and the economy

Known for its Southern country theme and hearty comfort food, Cracker Barrel has been a beloved staple dish in many California communities since it first expanded into the state. The closures will impact not only the employees of the affected locations, but also the local economies that have benefited from the traffic and employment provided by each restaurant.

Response from Cracker Barrel

The company has expressed its deep regret over the decision to close these locations, but emphasizes that this is a necessary step to ensure long-term sustainability and growth. “This was not an easy decision and we understand the impact this has on our employees and communities,” a company spokesperson said. Cracker Barrel is committed to providing support and assistance to all employees affected by the closures, including possible relocation to other stores and severance benefits.

Plans for the future

While news of the closures has been disappointing to many, Cracker Barrel assures it remains committed to the California market. The company plans to improve the performance of its remaining locations in the state and is exploring new ways to engage with its customer base, including potential expansions of its online presence and digital services.

As the situation evolves, Cracker Barrel will continue to assess its operations and make adjustments as necessary, consistent with its mission to provide a warm, welcoming home-away-from-home for its guests. The company also plans to focus more intensively on menu innovations and sustainability practices in its operating model.

Where it started

Nearly six years ago, California welcomed its first Cracker Barrel Old Country Store to Victorville. This marked the beginning of a string of openings, creating six additional Cracker Barrel locations across the state, including in Bakersfield, Camarillo, Rialto, Rocklin, Sacramento and Santa Maria.

The Victorville store, located at 11612 Amargosa Road, remains open with no plans to close, at least in the near future.

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