Cracker Barrel Expands Alcohol Options To Even More Locations

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — President and CEO of Cracker Barrel Sandra Cochran says the restaurant plans on adding beer, wine, and mimosas to the menu at a majority of its locations.

In a recent earnings call, Cochran says beer and wine selections were tested in around 20 stores in June as way to make up for money lost during the pandemic, and that expanded to around 100 locations after great success.

“Based on the favorable results, we’ll be introducing the beer and wine program to the majority of our system in fiscal ’21 and we expect it to be in approximately 600 stores by the end of the fiscal year. I remain excited about this initiative and in addition to the financial benefits, we believe these offerings support the guest experience by providing additional variety. The performance of this initiative has been in line with our expectation, and while it is mostly targeted enhancing the dinner daypart, our mimosas have proven to be quite popular in the breakfast and lunch dayparts.” says Cochran.

Cochran says mimosas continue to be a favorite on the menu, even adding mimosa kits to-go at certain locations, and plans to test out a seasonal mimosa in Florida.

Since the pandemic shut down stores back in March, Cochran says the new additions to the menu are great for business, but the priority remains on safety as stores return to in-person dining.

“Our first and top priority, is ensuring the health and safety of our guests and employees. Our elevated health and safety measures remain in place, and our teams continue to do an excellent job, diligently executing the procedures and protocols, and adapting to a dynamic situation,” says Cochran. “We’re committed to prioritizing and will be investing in health and safety over the long term and we believe this emphasis has and will continue to strengthen the trust that both guests and employees have in our brand.