Cracker Barrel Stock Dips After Disappointing Earnings Report
September 17, 2025 – Shares of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store (CBRL) fell sharply in early trading Wednesday after the company released a disappointing earnings report, signaling a challenging environment for the casual dining chain. The stock was down over 7% as of 10:00 AM EST, trading at $78.50 per share.
The company reported earnings per share of $1.85 for the fiscal first quarter, falling short of analyst expectations of $2.10. Revenue also missed estimates, coming in at $835 million compared to the projected $860 million.
While Cracker Barrel saw a slight increase in same-store sales at its Old Country Store restaurants – up 1.2% - this growth was offset by weaker performance at its newer, smaller-format stores. The company’s retail business also experienced a decline, wiht comparable store sales down 3.5%.
“We are navigating a period of macroeconomic headwinds that are impacting consumer spending, especially in discretionary categories like dining and gift retail,” said Cracker Barrel CEO Brenda Morris in a statement accompanying the earnings release. “We are taking proactive steps to manage costs and improve operational efficiency, but we anticipate these challenges will persist in the near term.”
Key Takeaways from the Earnings Report:
* EPS Miss: $1.85 reported vs. $2.10 expected.
* Revenue Miss: $835 million reported vs. $860 million expected.
* Old Country Store Sales: Up 1.2%
* Retail Sales: Down 3.5%
* Outlook: Company anticipates continued macroeconomic challenges.
Analysts are divided on the long-term outlook for Cracker Barrel. Some beleive the company’s strong brand loyalty and focus on value will allow it to weather the current storm. Others are concerned about the company’s reliance on discretionary spending and its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences.
“Cracker Barrel remains a beloved brand, but they need to demonstrate a clear strategy for revitalizing their retail business and attracting a younger demographic,” said Michael Thompson, a restaurant industry analyst at Thompson Research Group. “The current environment is particularly challenging for casual dining chains, and Cracker Barrel needs to innovate to stay ahead of the competition.”
The company plans to address these concerns by focusing on menu innovation, enhancing the customer experience, and streamlining its retail offerings. Investors will be closely watching the company’s performance in the coming quarters to see if these efforts bear fruit.
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