Older Diners Slow to Return to Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden Since Pandemic

Older customers at chains like Cracker Barrel and Olive Garden haven't fully returned since the pandemic. These customers remain cautious due to inflation and lingering Covid concerns.
Cracker Barrel has seen declines across all age groups, but the dip is steeper among customers over 65. Olive Garden is also below pre-Covid levels with its over 55 and especially over 65 customers.
While trying to bring back older customers, chains are also appealing more to younger consumers. Olive Garden touts value and free refills, while seeking to engage all ages online.
Performance is mixed, with sales up but traffic still lagging pre-pandemic levels at many major chains like Cracker Barrel and Olive Garden.
Share prices have fluctuated since Covid for the chains. Cracker Barrel stock is down nearly 27% in 2022, while Olive Garden's parent Darden is up about 4% for the year.

Older customers at chains like Cracker Barrel and Olive Garden haven't fully returned since the pandemic. These customers remain cautious due to inflation and lingering Covid concerns.
Cracker Barrel has seen declines across all age groups, but the dip is steeper among customers over 65. Olive Garden is also below pre-Covid levels with its over 55 and especially over 65 customers.
While trying to bring back older customers, chains are also appealing more to younger consumers. Olive Garden touts value and free refills, while seeking to engage all ages online.
Performance is mixed, with sales up but traffic still lagging pre-pandemic levels at many major chains like Cracker Barrel and Olive Garden.
Share prices have fluctuated since Covid for the chains. Cracker Barrel stock is down nearly 27% in 2022, while Olive Garden's parent Darden is up about 4% for the year.