Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. is an American chain of combined restaurant and gift stores with a Southern country theme. The company was founded by Dan Evins in 1969; its first store was in Lebanon, Tennessee, which remains the company headquarters. As of 2012, the chain operates 620 stores in 42 states. Its menu is based on traditional Southern cuisine, with appearance and decor designed to resemble an old-fashioned general store. Cracker Barrel is known for its partnerships with country music artists, and has received attention for its charitable activities, such as its assistance of victims of Hurricane Katrina and injured war veterans. During the 1990s, the company was the subject of controversy for its official stance against gay and lesbian employees and for discriminatory practices against African American and female employees. Following an agreement with the US Department of Justice and the implementation of non-discrimination policies, the company has focused on improving minority representation and civic involvement. Company shareholders added sexual orientation to the company's non-discrimination policy in 2002. (Full article...)
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