Business
Asia Dominates Global Digital Hardware Trade with Key Electronic Components
Nearly 80% of the world’s information and communications technology goods now originate from Asia, according to new trade data released by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), underscoring the region’s overwhelming dominance in the backbone of the digital economy.
Key takeaways
- Asia produces nearly 80% of global ICT goods exports, with electronic components like chips and sensors driving growth while consumer electronics stagnate.
- Europe dominates ICT services exports with 57% market share, while Africa and Latin America combined account for just 2.5% of the $1.2 trillion global market.
- Developing countries risk permanent marginalization in digital trade without urgent investment in broadband infrastructure, digital skills, and supportive trade policies.
The findings, published on January 29, reveal that ICT products ranging from semiconductors to smartphones accounted for more than 12% of total global merchandise exports in 2024. This translates to over one dollar in every eight earned from international trade in goods coming from digital-enabling hardware.
Electronic Components Fuel Unprecedented Growth
The surge in digital trade has been primarily driven by electronic components, including microchips, circuit boards, and sensors, the invisible infrastructure powering everything from cloud computing and electric vehicles to renewable energy systems. Trade in these components has surged dramatically over the past 15 years, even as consumer electronics and other ICT products have stagnated.
“Electronic components are the invisible backbone of the digital economy,” UNCTAD stated in its analysis, emphasizing that countries capable of producing these components secure not only skilled jobs but also technology spillovers and more resilient export revenues.
The Digital Divide Deepens
While Asia’s manufacturing prowess continues to expand, the data exposes a stark global imbalance. Many developing economies remain confined to lower-value components or assembly operations, limiting their ability to capitalize on digital and energy transitions.
The disparity is even more pronounced in ICT services. Europe commanded 57% of the $1.2 trillion global ICT services export market in 2024, with Asia and Oceania capturing 33%. North America held 8%, while Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean combined accounted for a mere 2.5%, less than $30 billion.
Digital Delivery Reshapes Trade Landscape
Trade in digitally deliverable products, services that can be transmitted remotely over computer networks, including telecommunications, consulting, healthcare, education, and digital media, grew 10% in 2024, reaching 56% of all global services exports.
Developed economies dominated this sector, exporting approximately $3.8 trillion worth of digitally deliverable products compared to $1.2 trillion from developing nations.
“Digital delivery eliminates the need for physical proximity between service suppliers and consumers, lowering traditional barriers to services trade,” UNCTAD noted. However, this advantage comes with a caveat: dependence on digital connectivity and skills creates new obstacles for countries with weaker digital infrastructure.
A Call for Strategic Investment
UNCTAD’s analysis warns that without targeted investment in broadband infrastructure, digital skills development, data governance frameworks, and supportive trade policies, many developing countries risk being permanently sidelined as digital trade deepens.
“The imbalances between developed and developing countries highlight persistent gaps in digital capacity,” the report emphasized. “Countries that fail to invest in their digital ecosystems risk remaining marginal players in one of the fastest-growing segments of global trade.”
As technological change accelerates and global trade undergoes structural transformation, the data reveals not just economic statistics but deeper stories about opportunity, inequality, and the shifting geography of economic power in the digital age.UNCTAD’s analysis issues a critical warning: without targeted investment in broadband infrastructure, digital skills development, data governance frameworks, and supportive trade policies, many developing countries risk permanent marginalization in an increasingly digital global economy. The report emphasizes persistent gaps in digital capacity, urging countries to invest in their digital ecosystems to avoid being sidelined from one of the fastest-growing segments of global trade.
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The Ultimate All-in-One SEO & AI Visibility Powerhouse Reviewed
In 2026, digital marketing has shifted dramatically with AI search engines like Google AI Mode, ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity reshaping how users discover content. Traditional SEO alone isn’t enough—brands must win visibility across “Search Everywhere,” including AI platforms. Enter Semrush, the leading platform that evolved into Semrush One to tackle this new era head-on. With massive databases (27.8 billion keywords, 43 trillion backlinks), AI-powered tools, and unified visibility tracking, Semrush remains a top choice for agencies, in-house teams, and serious marketers.
This 2000-word review dives into 10 essential things you must know about Semrush in 2026, blending features, pricing, pros/cons, comparisons, and real-user insights from sources like G2 (4.6/5), Capterra, and recent updates.
1. Semrush One: The Big 2026 Pivot to AI + Traditional SEO
Semrush launched Semrush One in late 2025/early 2026 as its flagship offering, combining classic SEO tools with the new AI Visibility Toolkit. This unified platform tracks performance not just in Google but across LLMs (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini, Copilot). Key additions include:
- AI Visibility Overview — Scores your brand’s presence in AI responses (0-100 scale) vs. competitors.
- AI-Cited Media Finder & Media Monitoring — Spots where your brand gets mentioned in AI outputs.
- Prompt Research & Persona-Based Prompt Generation — Helps craft queries that trigger favorable AI responses.
- Query Fan-Out Analysis — Reveals search signals behind AI answers.
This addresses 2026 realities: AI Overviews now appear in ~15-17% of searches (up from 6% in early 2025), and AI content dominates top results more than ever. Semrush positions itself as the first true “Search Everywhere Optimization” solution.
2. Massive Data Scale Gives It an Edge
Semrush boasts one of the largest databases:
- 27.8 billion keywords
- 43 trillion backlinks
- Daily rank tracking for millions of domains
This powers accurate keyword research, backlink gap analysis, and competitive intel. In 2026 tests, users praise its depth for enterprise needs, though accuracy varies by niche (strong for Google, limited non-Google data).
3. Core Features Still Dominate Traditional SEO
Beyond AI, Semrush retains powerhouse classics:
- Keyword Research — Intent mapping, clustering, SERP features.
- Site Audit — Technical SEO fixes, Core Web Vitals.
- Position Tracking — Daily updates, AI Overview monitoring.
- Backlink Analytics — Gap tool, toxic link detection.
- Content Marketing — Topic Research, SEO Writing Assistant.
- Competitive Analysis — Traffic & Market, EyeOn for brand monitoring.
- PPC & Social — Ad research, social posting.
The all-in-one suite covers SEO, PPC, content, PR, and social—ideal for full-funnel teams.
4. 2026 Pricing: Semrush One vs. Classic Plans
Semrush updated pricing for Semrush One (includes AI tools):
- Starter: ~$165-199/mo (billed annually) — Basic limits, good for beginners.
- Pro+: ~$248-299/mo — Scaling brands, more projects/keywords.
- Advanced: ~$455-549/mo — Enterprise features, unlimited-ish limits.
Classic SEO Toolkit remains cheaper (Pro ~$139.95/mo), but lacks full AI Visibility. Annual billing saves 15-20%. Add-ons (extra users, API) add costs. Free trial available; limited free version for basic checks.
5. Pros: Why Marketers Love Semrush in 2026
- Comprehensive & AI-Forward — Best for adapting to AI search; tracks brand in LLMs.
- User-Friendly — Intuitive dashboards, great reporting.
- Versatile — Suits agencies, e-commerce, SaaS, local businesses.
- High Ratings — 4.6/5 on G2/Capterra; praised for insights & support.
- Regular Updates — Frequent releases (e.g., persona prompts, Copilot tracking in Jan 2026).
Users report strong ROI: better rankings, traffic growth, and AI citation wins.
6. Cons: Where Semrush Falls Short
- Pricey — Mid/high tiers expensive for solopreneurs.
- One User/Plan — Extra seats cost more; agencies pay up.
- Google-Centric — Limited non-Google data vs. some rivals.
- Learning Curve — Feature overload for beginners.
- Data Accuracy — Occasionally over/underestimates vs. GSC.
7. Semrush vs. Ahrefs in 2026: Head-to-Head
Ahrefs excels in backlinks (cleaner index) and simplicity; Semrush wins for breadth (AI, PPC, content, social). In 2026:
- Keyword research: Semrush edges with intent/clustering.
- Backlinks: Ahrefs often more accurate.
- AI/Search Everywhere: Semrush dominates.
- Pricing: Ahrefs cheaper entry; Semrush better value mid-tier+.
Choose Semrush for full marketing; Ahrefs for pure link/SEO focus.
8. Latest 2026 Updates & Innovations
Semrush rolled out:
- Enterprise AI Optimization: Persona prompts, forecasting, Copilot tracking.
- ChatGPT App integration for direct data access.
- Query Fan-Out & Content Audit enhancements.
These keep Semrush ahead in AI SEO trends (e.g., complex queries up, CTR drops).
9. Who Should Use Semrush in 2026?
- Agencies & teams needing all-in-one.
- Brands fighting AI visibility loss.
- E-commerce/SaaS optimizing multi-channel.
- Not ideal for budget solopreneurs (try free alternatives first).
10. Final Verdict: Still a Top Tool?
Semrush in 2026 is stronger than ever—adapting to AI while retaining SEO dominance. If you’re serious about visibility across search (Google + AI), it’s worth the investment. Start with a trial to test AI tools.
Semrush drives real results in a changing landscape. Pair it with quality content for maximum impact.
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EEOC investigating Nike over diversity discrimination allegations
Inspire Investing CEO Robert Netzly and CFA Tim Schwarzenberger speak exclusively to Fox News Digital about their shareholder proposals for 2026 and the ‘real, tangible change’ they’re hoping for.
The federal agency that enforces U.S. workplace discrimination laws said Wednesday it is investigating Nike over allegations that its diversity initiatives unlawfully discriminated against White employees and job applicants, according to a court filing.
Reuters reported that the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) said Nike has refused to comply with a subpoena seeking information, including data on the racial and ethnic makeup of the global athletic apparel and footwear company based in Beaverton, Oregon.
The subpoenas also seek a roster of employees selected for mentoring and development programs.
The commission said the investigation centers on claims that Nike deliberately treated White employees and job applicants unfairly, including allegations that they were disproportionately targeted for layoffs.
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The EEOC is investigating Nike over allegations its diversity initiatives unlawfully discriminated against White employees and job applicants amid layoffs. (istock)
The agency said it is seeking the records to determine whether Nike violated federal anti-discrimination law.
Nike disputed the commission’s characterization of its cooperation, saying in a statement that it has participated extensively and in good faith in the agency’s inquiry.
“This feels like a surprising and unusual escalation,” a Nike spokesperson told FOX Business. “We have had extensive, good-faith participation in an EEOC inquiry into our personnel practices, programs, and decisions and have had ongoing efforts to provide information and engage constructively with the agency. We have shared thousands of pages of information and detailed written responses to the EEOC’s inquiry and are in the process of providing additional information.”
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A woman passes in front of a Nike store in Portland, Oregon. (Natalie Behring/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
The company said it is a “proud American company” focused on bringing inspiration and innovation to athletes around the world.
“We are committed to fair and lawful employment practices and follow all applicable laws, including those that prohibit discrimination,” the spokesperson added. “We believe our programs and practices are consistent with those obligations and take these matters seriously. We will continue our attempt to cooperate with the EEOC and will respond to the petition.”
The development comes nearly a week after Nike said it plans to cut 775 jobs, primarily affecting distribution centers in Tennessee and Mississippi, as the company looks to automate more of its supply chain.
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The EEOC is investigating whether Nike’s diversity programs unlawfully discriminated against White employees and job applicants. (Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
A Nike spokesperson previously told FOX Business the company is streamlining and consolidating its operations — particularly within its U.S. distribution network — to move faster, improve efficiency and invest in technology, automation and workforce skills.
The distribution center layoffs follow similar moves by Nike over the past two years aimed at reorganizing operations and improving financial performance.
Nike said in August last year it planned to cut less than 1% of its corporate workforce as part of a turnaround effort under CEO Elliott Hill.
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In February 2024, the company announced it would cut 2% of its workforce, affecting more than 1,600 workers.
FOX Business’ Eric Revell and Reuters contributed to this report.
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Delta flight 1676 turns back to San Antonio airport after engine issue
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Authorities told FOX Business Wednesday that a Delta Air Lines flight was forced to turn back Tuesday after an engine issue was detected shortly after takeoff in Texas.
Fire department officials confirmed that crews reported smoke coming from one of the aircraft’s engines.
Delta Air Lines said flight 1676 took off from San Antonio International Airport in the morning and was headed to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia.
After crews reported the engine issue, the Airbus A320, carrying 136 passengers and six crew members, returned to the airport and landed safely.
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A Delta Air Lines passenger jet taxis after landing at San Antonio International Airport in Texas. (Robert Alexander / Getty Images)
According to FlightAware, the passenger jet was in the air for roughly 20 minutes before landing back at around 11:15 a.m. People reported.
“As safety comes before all else, Delta flight 1676 returned to San Antonio after the crew received an indication of a potential engine issue after takeoff,” a Delta Air Lines spokesperson told FOX Business.
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A Delta Air Lines Airbus A350-900 passenger aircraft flies after takeoff. (Getty Images)
The San Antonio Fire Department (SAFD) told FOX Business that it received a report of “smoke coming from an engine.”
While the department said it initially dispatched extra crews outside the airport as a precaution against a potential aircraft fire, on-site fire crews “assessed the plane with no reported negative findings.” The additional response teams were canceled before they ever arrived, SAFD added.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the plane safely returned to the airport, and the SAFD said that there were no injuries or other incidents.
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| Ticker | Security | Last | Change | Change % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAL | DELTA AIR LINES INC. | 70.84 | +0.41 | +0.58% |
Delta Air Lines added that, as a safety precaution, the flight crew declared an emergency to ensure priority handling with Air Traffic Control.
Airport spokesperson Tonya Hope clarified that the incident, however, “was NOT an emergency landing.”
“The flight landed at SAT safely and all passengers departed the plane,” she told the San Antonio Express-News. “The flight landed at SAT safely and all passengers departed the plane. The initial call went out for an engine fire as the plane was heading to San Antonio.
“However, when SAFD checked the plane, there was not an indication of fire. All passengers landed and there’s been no impact to the operations at SAT.”

A Delta Air Lines passenger plane is seen in Washington D.C. in February 2023. (Celal Gunes/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Delta Air Lines maintenance teams are evaluating the aircraft, the airline said. The FAA added that it will investigate the incident.
Passengers were later accommodated on alternative Delta Air Lines flights to ensure they reached their final destinations promptly.
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“We apologize to our customers for the delay in their travels,” the airline said.
The San Antonio International Airport did not immediately respond to a request for comment from FOX Business.
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How Malvern Residents Can Travel to UK Airports Easily
Living in Malvern offers the perfect balance between peaceful surroundings and convenient access to major UK cities. However, when it comes to travelling to large UK airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick, or Birmingham, many residents find the journey more complicated than expected. Limited direct public transport, early flight times, and the challenge of managing luggage can turn airport travel into a stressful experience.
The good news is that with the right planning and transport choice, Malvern residents can travel to UK airports easily, comfortably, and without unnecessary hassle.
Common Airport Travel Challenges for Malvern Residents
Although Malvern is well connected locally, reaching major airports often involves long journeys. Many residents face similar challenges when planning airport travel, including:
- Multiple train changes
- Unpredictable delays and cancellations
- Early-morning or late-night departures
- Carrying luggage across busy stations
- High parking costs at airports
Understanding these challenges helps in choosing the most efficient and stress-free travel option.
Public Transport: Is It Always Practical?
Trains and buses are often the first options people consider. While public transport can work in some situations, it’s not always the most convenient solution for airport travel from Malvern.
Train journeys to airports such as Heathrow frequently require multiple changes, often passing through Worcester, Birmingham, or London. This can significantly increase travel time and stress, particularly during peak hours or when services are disrupted.
Public transport may be less suitable if you are:
- Travelling with family or children
- Carrying multiple or heavy suitcases
- Catching an early or late flight
- Travelling for an important business trip
In these cases, reliability and simplicity become far more important than saving a small amount on fares.
Driving Yourself to the Airport: Pros and Cons
Driving to the airport gives you control over your schedule, but it also comes with drawbacks. The journey from Malvern to major airports can be long, and motorway congestion, especially around London, can cause delays.
In addition to traffic, drivers must also consider:
- Expensive long-term airport parking
- Shuttle buses from car parks to terminals
- Fatigue from long-distance driving
After a long drive, navigating busy airport roads can be exhausting and stressful, particularly before a flight.
Why Airport Taxis Are a Popular Choice in Malvern
For many Malvern residents, pre-booked airport taxis have become the most convenient and stress-free way to travel. A professional airport taxi service provides door-to-door transport, eliminating the need for changes, parking, or last-minute rushing.
Booking a Malvern to Heathrow Airport taxi ensures that you are collected from your home or chosen location and driven directly to the correct airport terminal. This removes uncertainty and allows you to focus on your journey rather than the logistics.
Airport taxis are ideal for:
- Families and groups
- Business travellers
- Elderly passengers
- Travellers with early departures
The Advantages of Choosing a Local Taxi Service
Using a local provider offers several benefits over national or app-based services. Local drivers are familiar with Malvern and the surrounding areas, allowing them to choose the most efficient routes and avoid traffic hotspots where possible.
A trusted service like Malvern Airport Taxis focuses on punctuality, comfort, and customer satisfaction. Vehicles are well-maintained, spacious, and suitable for long-distance travel. Fixed pricing also gives peace of mind, as there are no surprise charges due to traffic delays.
Local services understand the importance of timing when it comes to flights, ensuring you arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare.
Heathrow: The Most Popular Airport for Malvern Travellers
Heathrow Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and a common choice for international travel. While it offers a wide range of destinations, getting there from Malvern can be challenging without reliable transport.
Choosing a Malvern to Heathrow Airport taxi removes many of the difficulties associated with travelling to such a busy hub. With a direct, pre-planned journey, you can avoid the complexity of train changes or the stress of driving in heavy traffic.
Comfort and Peace of Mind Matter
Airport journeys can be long and tiring, especially when travelling internationally. Comfort plays a major role in reducing stress before a flight. A private taxi allows you to relax, prepare for your trip, or simply enjoy a quiet journey.
With professional airport transfers, you benefit from:
- Comfortable seating
- Climate-controlled vehicles
- Space for luggage
- A calm, private environment
Arriving at the airport relaxed can make the entire travel experience smoother, from check-in to boarding.
Business Travel Made Simple
For business travellers, reliability is essential. Missing a flight can have serious consequences, including missed meetings or events. Many professionals in Malvern choose airport taxi services because they offer dependable, time-efficient travel.
A pre-booked taxi allows business travellers to:
- Work or make calls during the journey
- Avoid unpredictable delays
- Arrive prepared and focused
This reliability makes airport taxis a preferred option for frequent travellers.
Tips for Stress-Free Airport Travel
To make airport travel even easier, Malvern residents should keep these tips in mind:
- Book your airport transport in advance
- Confirm your flight terminal before departure
- Allow extra travel time during peak hours
- Keep important documents easily accessible
- Pack smartly to reduce luggage stress
Small preparations can make a significant difference on travel day.
A Smarter Way to Travel from Malvern
Travelling from Malvern to UK airports doesn’t need to be complicated. With careful planning and the right transport choice, residents can enjoy a smooth, reliable journey every time.
By choosing a professional local service such as Malvern Airport Taxis, travellers can avoid the common frustrations of airport travel and focus on what matters most, starting their trip calmly and confidently.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re heading on holiday or travelling for business, the journey to the airport sets the tone for your entire trip. For Malvern residents, a dependable Malvern to Heathrow Airport taxi offers one of the easiest and most stress-free ways to reach major UK airports.
With door-to-door convenience, professional drivers, and reliable service, airport travel becomes a simple part of the journey rather than a challenge to overcome.
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Teens Say Social Media Ban Isn’t Effective as Spain Follows Australia’s Footsteps
The social media ban for users who are under 16 years of age has been going on for two months now.
However, it seems teens do not think it’s working.
Teens Don’t Think Social Media Ban Is Working
Several teens interviewed by ABC News have shared with the outlet that they do not think that the ban has been effective.
In fact, a 14-year-old boy even shared how Snapchat prompted him to do a face scan leading up to the ban. He complied and was granted access even if he wasn’t 16 years old.
“Snapchat thought I was over 16, so my Snapchat account did not get banned and same on my TikTok, but Instagram, I needed to show my driver’s licence because it wasn’t letting me use my face,” he told ABC.
Other teens interviewed by ABC also shared how they got around the social media ban. A 15-year-old girl interviewed said she set her birthday to a year before she was born.
Another 14-year-old boy shared how the ban has led to people not affected by the ban to earn money by circumventing it.
“Now there’s sort of like a market for it of younger people under the age of 16 giving money to their friends or people they know that are older to do ID scans for them or your parents doing it for you,” he said. “So, it’s really easy to get around.”
Spain Follows in Australia’s Footsteps
ABC’s report comes not long after Spain announced that it was going to follow Australia’s example by banning social media access for those who are under the age of 16.
According to a report by BBC, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez declared that the move aims to protect children “from the digital Wild West.”
It also seems that Spain isn’t the only considering the ban. Other European countries such as Austria, Denmark, France, and Greece are reportedly weighing their options.
Unsurprisingly, one man who is not happy about the potential bans is X owner Elon Musk, who went as far as to call Sánchez a “tyrant” over the proposed ban, according to The Guardian.
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Cracker Barrel clarifies employee dining policy for travel after viral reports
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Cracker Barrel responded to reports that it requires employees to eat exclusively at its restaurants while traveling for work, noting that the guidance is not new.
The Southern-themed restaurant chain told FOX Business that its dining policy was first introduced in June 2024 and emphasized that employees traveling for business are encouraged — but not required — to eat at Cracker Barrel locations.
“The policy for employees to dine at Cracker Barrel while traveling for business, whenever practical based on location and schedule, is not new,” the company told FOX Business.
“Also, it is not the only place that our employees may eat when on the road, as previously reported. The change was to further limit reimbursement of alcoholic beverages under the policy.”
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A Cracker Barrel sign outside a location in Louisville, Ky., Sept. 23, 2019. (Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
The clarification follows a recent report highlighting Cracker Barrel’s internal employee policies.
According to an internal message reviewed by The Wall Street Journal, employees are encouraged to delay work-related travel when possible and, when travel is unavoidable, are expected to dine at Cracker Barrel locations when practical.
“Employees are expected to dine at a Cracker Barrel store for all or the majority of meals while traveling, whenever practical based on location and schedule,” the company wrote.

A Cracker Barrel Country Store in Fishkill, N.Y., Aug. 25, 2025. (Richard Beetham for Fox News Digital)
Cracker Barrel is also reportedly tightening its travel expense policy relating to alcohol, requiring employees pay out of pocket for alcoholic beverages. Any exceptions must receive prior approval, The Wall Street Journal reported.
“Exceptions for special occasions must be pre-approved by an E-Team member,” Cracker Barrel said.
Cracker Barrel has struggled in recent months, including facing customer outrage last summer over a logo redesign that removed its iconic “Old Timer” character, a decision the company later reversed.
During its fiscal first-quarter 2026 earnings call in December, CEO Julie Masino said the company’s turnaround is taking longer than expected.
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Cracker Barrel CEO Julie Felss Masino walks out of an office building in Brentwood, Tenn., Aug. 28, 2025. (Zak Bennett for Fox News Digital)
Sales fell 5.7% compared with the same period last year.
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“As you are all aware, the past few months have been difficult for Cracker Barrel and for our 70,000 team members around the country,” Masino said. “And while many of our guests are enjoying our improved food and guest experience, we certainly have more work to do to regain the trust and confidence of others who have been slower to return.”
Cracker Barrel shares are up more than 30% year to date.
FOX Business’ Greg Wehner and Eric Revell contributed to this report.
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