Dive Summary:

• Duck Dynasty branded merchandise and apparel is facing a potential retail boycott at the hands of a number of mass U.S. retailers, following controversial comments made by one of the show’s key cast members during a published interview with GQ magazine.
• The top-rated TV series has spawned a mass merchandising giant which currently lines the shelves with branded outdoor sports themed apparel, home goods and accessories throughout Walmart, Target, Cabela’s and other retailers—including Cracker Barrel.
• Cracker Barrel removed the Duck Dynasty Duck Commander brand of merchandise at a slew of stores following the controversy and subsequent suspension by A&E on Friday, but then the company backtracked—issuing a public apology two days later for removing the items.

Dive Insight:

“You flat out told us we were wrong. We listened. Today, we are putting all our Duck Dynasty products back in our stores. And, we apologize for offending you,” said Cracker Barrel in a Facebook statement to customers. The A&E Television Network suspended Phil Robertson for his remarks, now the surefire merchandise juggernaut is facing a public relations crisis undoubtedly similar to former retail titan Paula Deen—who earlier this year encountered a public relations spectacle of her own.