The Cracker Barrel Restaurants

Statement of the Problem(s)

Cracker Barrel implemented a policy that prohibited hiring of any individual whose sexual

orientation didn’t reflect the accustomed or traditional ‘heterosexual’ values. Also, there were of

racial discrimination towards the African American community.

Question 2

Do franchise operations, which prizes uniformity- and thus reliability- in store design,

products and operating procedures require uniformity of personnel policies? Were the

regional variations that Dan Evins proposed on February 27, 1991, a viable corporate

strategy? Why or why not?

Uniformity plays a significant role in franchise operations. The importance is to ensure that

everything equal. Franchises should require uniformity for personnel policies because it provides

consistency and evenness. To elaborate, the approach used for hiring and promotions should

apply to all potential or current employees. Uniformity, in this regards, would keep the franchise

as fair and unbiased as possible. Also, it would prevent favoritism within the franchise. In terms

of the regional variations on February 27, 1991 by Mr. Evins, it was a viable corporate strategy.

Despite the fact that Mr. Evins was anticipating a different impact, it constituted a chain of

reaction with the lesbian and gay community. Due to the discrimination, riots and protests were

initiated. As a result, more than half of the executives were persuaded in changing the policy

where it prohibits anti-gay discrimination. Thereby, it was a viable strategy because it led to

change and positive outcome.