SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

Commission File No. 0-3930

 

 

FRIENDLY ICE CREAM CORPORATION

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý  No o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2). Yes o  No ý

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock as of the latest practicable date.

 

 

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.  Financial Statements

 

FRIENDLY ICE CREAM CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

(In thousands)

 

		September 28, 2003			December 29, 2002
		(unaudited)
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	31,551		$	34,341
Restricted cash		1,945			—
Accounts receivable		10,452			10,853
Inventories		15,393			17,278
Deferred income taxes		7,771			7,771
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		2,885			3,062
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS		69,997			73,305
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization		163,518			158,373
INTANGIBLE ASSETS AND DEFERRED COSTS, net of accumulated amortization		18,315			19,642
OTHER ASSETS		5,817			5,878
TOTAL ASSETS		$	257,647		$	257,198
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Current maturities of long-term debt		$	1,093		$	1,031
Current maturities of capital lease and finance obligations		759			1,362
Accounts payable		22,565			23,902
Accrued salaries and benefits		10,301			9,329
Accrued interest payable		6,637			1,961
Insurance reserves		10,274			11,330
Restructuring reserves		530			937
Other accrued expenses		15,443			22,885
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES		67,602			72,737
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES		3,856			1,533
CAPITAL LEASE AND FINANCE OBLIGATIONS, less current maturities		5,135			5,044
LONG-TERM DEBT, less current maturities		228,258			231,830
ACCRUED PENSION COST		15,431			16,281
OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES		33,739			33,475
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT:
Common stock		74			74
Additional paid-in capital		140,386			139,974
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(14,559		)	(14,559		)
Accumulated deficit		(222,275		)	(229,191		)
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT		(96,374		)	(103,702		)
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT		$	257,647		$	257,198

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

1

 

FRIENDLY ICE CREAM CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

		For the Three Months Ended						For the Nine Months Ended
		September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002			September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002
REVENUES		$	160,350		$	158,314		$	444,688		$	439,669
COSTS AND EXPENSES:
Cost of sales		56,561			57,079			157,717			156,071
Labor and benefits		45,402			43,457			127,326			123,618
Operating expenses		29,510			30,946			85,112			84,408
General and administrative expenses		9,939			9,369			28,397			26,649
Reduction of restructuring reserve		—			—			—			(400		)
Write-downs of property and equipment		26			—			26			431
Depreciation and amortization		5,391			6,097			16,764			19,170
Loss on franchise sales of restaurant operations and properties		—			21			—			21
Loss (gain) on disposals of other property and equipment, net		91			(150		)	1,499			491
OPERATING INCOME		13,430			11,495			27,847			29,210
Interest expense, net		6,048			6,212			18,242			18,764
INCOME BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES		7,382			5,283			9,605			10,446
Provision for income taxes		(2,067		)	(1,795		)	(2,689		)	(3,551		)
NET INCOME		$	5,315		$	3,488		$	6,916		$	6,895
BASIC NET INCOME PER SHARE		$	0.71		$	0.47		$	0.93		$	0.94
DILUTED NET INCOME PER SHARE		$	0.70		$	0.46		$	0.91		$	0.91
WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES:
Basic		7,452			7,379			7,436			7,366
Diluted		7,606			7,607			7,577			7,574

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

2

 

FRIENDLY ICE CREAM CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

		For the Nine Months Ended
		September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income		$	6,916		$	6,895
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Stock compensation expense		184			302
Depreciation and amortization		16,764			19,170
Write-offs of deferred financing costs		44			—
Write-downs of property and equipment		26			431
Deferred income tax expense		2,323			3,881
Loss on disposals of other property and equipment, net		1,499			491
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable		401			(122		)
Inventories		1,885			(2,259		)
Other assets		(1,707		)	(3,533		)
Accounts payable		(1,337		)	4,932
Accrued expenses and other long-term liabilities		(4,086		)	1,609
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES		22,912			31,797
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment		(21,291		)	(9,004		)
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment		63			3,426
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES		(21,228		)	(5,578		)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Repayments of debt		(3,510		)	(753		)
Repayments of capital lease and finance obligations		(1,192		)	(1,396		)
Stock options exercised		228			133
NET CASH USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES		(4,474		)	(2,016		)
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS		(2,790		)	24,203
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD		34,341			16,342
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD		$	31,551		$	40,545
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES:
Cash paid (refunded) during the period for:
Interest		$	13,435		$	13,030
Income taxes		961			(9		)
Capital lease obligations incurred		680			—
Lease incentive equipment received		243			—

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

3

 

FRIENDLY ICE CREAM CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

(Unaudited)

 

1.  BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Interim Financial Information -

 

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements as of September 28, 2003 and for the three months and nine months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002 are unaudited, but, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments which are necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated financial position, results of operations, cash flows and comprehensive income of Friendly Ice Cream Corporation (“FICC”) and subsidiaries (unless the context indicates otherwise, collectively, the “Company”). Such adjustments consist solely of normal recurring accruals. Operating results for the three and nine month periods ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year due, in part, to the seasonality of the Company’s business. Historically, higher revenues and operating income have been experienced during the second and third fiscal quarters. The Company’s consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, which are contained in the 2002 Annual Report on Form 10-K should be read in conjunction with these condensed consolidated financial statements. Capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein should be referenced to the 2002 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements -

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. The critical accounting policies and most significant estimates and assumptions relate to revenue recognition, insurance reserves, recoverability of accounts receivable, restructuring reserves, valuation allowances and pension and other post-retirement benefits expense. Actual amounts could differ significantly from the estimates.

 

Revenue Recognition -

 

The Company’s revenues are derived primarily from the operation of full-service restaurants, the distribution and sale of frozen desserts through retail and institutional locations and franchising. The Company recognizes restaurant revenue upon receipt of payment from the customer and retail revenue, net of discounts and allowances, upon delivery of product. Reserves for discounts and allowances from retail sales are estimated and accrued when revenue is recorded. Actual amounts could differ materially from the estimates. Franchise royalty income, based on net sales of franchisees, is payable monthly and is recorded on the accrual method. Initial franchise fees are recorded as revenue upon completion of all significant services, generally upon opening of the restaurant.

 

4

 

Insurance Reserves -

 

The Company is self-insured through retentions or deductibles for the majority of its workers’ compensation, automobile, general liability, employer’s liability, product liability and group health insurance programs. Self-insurance amounts vary up to $500,000 per occurrence. Insurance with third parties, some of which is then reinsured through Restaurant Insurance Corporation (“RIC”), the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, is in place for claims in excess of these self-insured amounts. RIC reinsured 100% of the risk from $500,000 to $1,000,000 per occurrence through September 2, 2000 for FICC’s workers’ compensation, general liability, employer’s liability and product liability insurance. Subsequent to September 2, 2000, the Company discontinued its use of RIC as a captive insurer for new claims. FICC’s and RIC’s liabilities for estimated incurred losses are actuarially determined and recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements on an undiscounted basis. Actual incurred losses may vary from the estimated incurred losses and could have a material effect on the Company’s insurance expense.

 

Concentration of Credit Risk -

 

Financial instruments, which potentially expose the Company to concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of accounts receivable. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and generally requires no collateral to secure accounts receivable. The credit review is based on both financial and non-financial factors. The Company maintains a reserve for potentially uncollectible accounts receivable based on its assessment of the collectibility of accounts receivable.

 

Restructuring Reserves -

 

On October 10, 2001, the Company eliminated approximately 70 positions at corporate headquarters. In addition, approximately 30 positions in the restaurant construction and fabrication areas were eliminated by December 30, 2001. The purpose of the reduction was to streamline functions and reduce redundancy among its business segments. As a result of the elimination of the positions and the outsourcing of certain functions, the Company reported a pre-tax restructuring charge of approximately $2,536,000 for severance, rent and unusable construction supplies in the year ended December 30, 2001.

 

In March 2000, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a restructuring plan that provided for the immediate closing of 81 restaurants at the end of March 2000 and the disposition of an additional 70 restaurants over the next 24 months. As a result of this plan, the Company reported a pre-tax restructuring charge of approximately $12,100,000 for severance, rent, utilities and real estate taxes, demarking, lease termination costs and certain other costs associated with the closing of the locations, along with a pre-tax write-down of property and equipment for these locations of approximately $17,000,000 in the year ended December 31, 2000. The Company reduced the restructuring reserve by $400,000 and $1,900,000 during the years ended December 29, 2002 and December 30, 2001, respectively, since the reserve exceeded estimated remaining payments.

 

As of September 28, 2003, the remaining restructuring reserve was $530,000. Based on information currently available, management believes that the restructuring reserve as of September 28, 2003 was adequate and not excessive.

 

5

 

Pension and Other Post-Retirement Benefits -

 

The determination of the Company’s obligation and expense for pension and other post-retirement benefits is dependent upon the selection of certain assumptions used by actuaries in calculating such amounts. Those assumptions include, among other things, the discount rate, expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and rates of increase in compensation and health care costs. In accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, actual results that differ from the assumptions are accumulated and amortized over future periods and, therefore, generally affect the recognized expense and recorded obligation in such future periods. Significant differences in actual experience or significant changes in the assumptions may materially affect the future pension and other post-retirement obligations and expense.

 

Restricted Cash -

 

Restaurant Insurance Corporation (“RIC”), an insurance subsidiary, is required to hold assets in trust whose value is at least equal to certain of RIC’s outstanding estimated insurance claim liabilities. Accordingly, as of September 28, 2003, cash of approximately $1,945,000 was restricted. There was no restricted cash as of December 29, 2002 as this requirement was satisfied with a letter of credit.

 

Inventories -

 

Inventories were stated at the lower of first-in, first-out cost or market. Inventories at September 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002 were (in thousands):

 

 

6

 

Long-Lived Assets -

 

In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” the Company reviews its Non-Friendly Marks, which were assigned to the Company by Hershey in September 2002, for impairment on a quarterly basis. The Company recognizes impairment has occurred when the carrying value of the Non-Friendly Marks exceeds the estimated future undiscounted cash flows of the trademarked products.

 

The Company reviews each restaurant property quarterly to determine which properties will be disposed of, if any. This determination is made based on poor operating results, deteriorating property values and other factors. In addition, the Company reviews all restaurants with negative cash flow for impairment on a quarterly basis. The Company recognizes an impairment has occurred when the carrying value of property reviewed exceeds its estimated fair value, which is estimated based on the Company’s experience selling similar properties and local market conditions, less costs to sell for properties to be disposed of.

 

Income Taxes -

 

The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” which requires recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements or tax returns. A valuation allowance is recorded for deferred tax assets whose realization is not likely. The Company records income taxes based on the effective rate expected for the year with any changes in the valuation allowance reflected in the period of change. As of September 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002, a valuation allowance of $10,200,000 existed related to state NOL carryforwards due to restrictions on the usage of state NOL carryforwards and short carryforward periods for certain states. Taxable income by state for future periods is difficult to estimate. The amount and timing of any future taxable income may affect the usage of such carryforwards, which could result in a material change in the valuation allowance.

 

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Agreements - -

 

The Company enters into commodity option contracts from time to time to manage dairy cost pressures. The Company’s commodity option contracts do not meet hedge accounting criteria as defined by SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” and, accordingly, are marked to market each period, with the resulting gains or losses recognized in cost of sales.

 

7

 

Earnings Per Share -

 

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of shares of common stock and common stock equivalents outstanding during the period. Common stock equivalents are dilutive stock options and warrants that are assumed exercised for calculation purposes. The number of common stock options which could dilute basic earnings per share in the future, that were not included in the computation of diluted income per share because to do so would have been antidilutive, was 158,236 and 50,960 for the three months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively. The number of common stock options which could dilute basic earnings per share in the future, that were not included in the computation of diluted income per share because to do so would have been antidilutive, was 195,626 and 84,514 for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively.

 

Presented below is the reconciliation between basic and diluted weighted average shares for the three and nine months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002 (in thousands):

 

		For the Three Months Ended
		Basic				Diluted
		September 28, 2003		September 29, 2002		September 28, 2003		September 29, 2002
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period		7,452		7,379		7,452		7,379
Adjustments:
Assumed exercise of stock options		—		—		154		228
Weighted average number of shares outstanding		7,452		7,379		7,606		7,607

 

		For the Nine Months Ended
		Basic				Diluted
		September 28, 2003		September 29, 2002		September 28, 2003		September 29, 2002
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period		7,436		7,366		7,436		7,366
Adjustments:
Assumed exercise of stock options		—		—		141		208
Weighted average number of shares outstanding		7,436		7,366		7,577		7,574

 

8

 

Stock-Based Compensation -

 

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation for employees under Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and elected the disclosure-only alternative under SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.”  No stock-based compensation cost is included in net income for the Company’s Stock Option Plan, as all options granted during periods presented had an exercise price equal to the market value of the stock on the date of grant.

 

In December 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation–Transition and Disclosure,” which amends SFAS No. 123. SFAS No. 148 allows for three methods of transition for those companies that adopt SFAS No. 123’s provisions for fair value recognition. SFAS No. 148’s transition guidance and provisions for annual disclosures are effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2002. The Company did not adopt fair value accounting for employee stock options under SFAS No. 123 and SFAS No. 148, but will continue to disclose the required pro-forma information in the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

 

In accordance with SFAS No. 148, the following table presents the effect on net income and net income per share had compensation cost for the Company’s stock plans been determined consistent with SFAS No. 123:

 

		For the Three Months Ended						For the Nine Months Ended
		September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002			September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002
Net income, as reported		$	5,315,000		$	3,488,000		$	6,916,000		$	6,895,000
Less stock based compensation expense determined under fair value method for all stock options, net of related income tax benefit		(528,000		)	(236,000		)	(620,000		)	(329,000		)
Pro forma net income		$	4,787,000		$	3,252,000		$	6,296,000		$	6,566,000
Basic net income per share, as reported		$	0.71		$	0.47		$	0.93		$	0.94
Basic net income per share, pro forma		$	0.64		$	0.44		$	0.85		$	0.89
Diluted net income per share, as reported		$	0.70		$	0.46		$	0.91		$	0.91
Diluted net income per share, pro forma		$	0.63		$	0.43		$	0.83		$	0.87

 

9

 

Fair value was estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:

 

 

Reclassifications -

 

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with current year presentation.

 

2.  SEGMENT REPORTING

 

Operating segments are components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision-maker, or decision-making group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company’s chief operating decision-maker is the Chief Executive Officer and President of the Company. The Company’s operating segments include restaurant, foodservice and franchise. The revenues from these segments include both sales to unaffiliated customers and intersegment sales, which generally are accounted for on a basis consistent with sales to unaffiliated customers. Intersegment sales and other intersegment transactions have been eliminated in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

The Company’s restaurants target families with children and adults who desire a reasonably priced meal in a full-service setting. The Company’s menu offers a broad selection of freshly-prepared foods which appeal to customers throughout all dayparts. The menu currently features over 100 items comprised of a broad selection of breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon and evening snack items. Foodservice operations manufactures frozen dessert products and distributes such manufactured products and purchased finished goods to the Company’s restaurants and franchised operations. Additionally, it sells frozen dessert products to distributors and retail and institutional locations. The Company’s franchise segment includes a royalty based on franchise restaurant revenue. In addition, the Company receives rental income from various franchised restaurants. The Company does not allocate general and administrative expenses associated with its headquarters operations to any business segment. These costs include expenses of the following functions: legal, accounting, personnel not directly related to a segment, information systems and other headquarters activities.

 

The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies except that the financial results for the foodservice operating segment, prior to intersegment eliminations, have been prepared using a management approach, which is consistent with the basis and manner in which the Company’s management internally reviews financial information for the purpose of assisting in making internal operating decisions. Using this approach, the Company evaluates performance based on stand-alone operating segment income (loss) before income taxes and generally accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties, that is, at current market prices.

 

During the three and nine months ended September 28, 2003, the foodservice segment did not charge additional zone pricing to the restaurant and franchise segments. As a result, intercompany zone pricing of approximately $130,000 and $362,000 for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2002, respectively, was reclassified out of foodservice revenue, resulting in reduced cost of sales in the restaurant and franchise segments to conform with current year presentation. Additionally, ice cream promotion marketing costs of $471,000 and $1,200,000 that were funded by the foodservice segment in 2002 were reclassified to the restaurant segment for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2002, respectively.

 

EBITDA represents net income before (i) provision for income taxes, (ii) interest expense, net, (iii) depreciation and amortization, (iv) write-downs of property and equipment and (v) other non-cash items. The Company has included information concerning

 

10

 

EBITDA in this Form 10-Q because the Company’s management incentive plan pays bonuses based on achieving EBITDA targets and the Company believes that such information is used by certain investors as one measure of a company’s historical ability to service debt. EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, earnings (loss) from operations or other traditional indications of a company’s operating performance.

 

		For the Three Months Ended						For the Nine Months Ended
		September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002			September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002
		(in thousands)
Revenues:
Restaurant		$	127,605		$	124,885		$	353,775		$	351,034
Foodservice		66,352			66,331			183,311			180,007
Franchise		2,571			2,663			7,536			7,342
Total		$	196,528		$	193,879		$	544,622		$	538,383
Intersegment revenues:
Restaurant		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
Foodservice		(36,178		)	(35,565		)	(99,934		)	(98,714		)
Franchise		—			—			—			—
Total		$	(36,178	)	$	(35,565	)	$	(99,934	)	$	(98,714	)
External revenues:
Restaurant		$	127,605		$	124,885		$	353,775		$	351,034
Foodservice		30,174			30,766			83,377			81,293
Franchise		2,571			2,663			7,536			7,342
Total		$	160,350		$	158,314		$	444,688		$	439,669

 

11

 

		For the Three Months Ended						For the Nine Months Ended
		September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002			September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002
		(in thousands)
EBITDA:
Restaurant		$	17,308		$	15,088		$	41,791		$	42,356
Foodservice		5,573			5,439			14,020			14,403
Franchise		1,769			1,862			5,332			4,998
Corporate		(5,485		)	(4,771		)	(14,835		)	(13,154		)
(Loss) gain on property and equipment, net		(264		)	143			(1,487		)	110
Reduction of restructuring reserve		—			—			—			400
Total		$	18,901		$	17,761		$	44,821		$	49,113
Interest expense, net-Corporate		$	6,048		$	6,212		$	18,242		$	18,764
Depreciation and amortization:
Restaurant		$	3,648		$	4,019		$	11,412		$	12,006
Foodservice		770			798			2,253			2,469
Franchise		39			63			116			202
Corporate		934			1,217			2,983			4,493
Total		$	5,391		$	6,097		$	16,764		$	19,170
Other non-cash expenses:
Corporate		$	54		$	169		$	184		$	302
Write-downs of property and equipment		26			—			26			431
Total		$	80		$	169		$	210		$	733
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes:
Restaurant		$	13,660		$	11,069		$	30,379		$	30,350
Foodservice		4,803			4,641			11,767			11,934
Franchise		1,730			1,799			5,216			4,796
Corporate		(12,521		)	(12,369		)	(36,244		)	(36,713		)
(Loss) gain on property and equipment, net		(290		)	143			(1,513		)	(321		)
Reduction of restructuring reserve		—			—			—			400
Total		$	7,382		$	5,283		$	9,605		$	10,446

 

12

 

		For the Nine Months Ended September 28, 2003			For the Year Ended December 29, 2002
		(in thousands)
Capital expenditures, including assets acquired under capital leases:
Restaurant		$	17,882		$	15,386
Foodservice		3,280			1,667
Corporate		1,052			1,039
Total		$	22,214		$	18,092
		September 28, 2003			December 29, 2002
Total assets:
Restaurant		$	150,162		$	144,927
Foodservice		38,540			39,631
Franchise		9,632			9,062
Corporate		59,313			63,578
Total		$	257,647		$	257,198

 

13

 

3. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In January 2003, the Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) issued EITF Issue No. 02-16, “Accounting by a Customer (Including a Reseller) for Certain Consideration Received from a Vendor,” which states that cash consideration received from a vendor is presumed to be a reduction of the prices of the vendor’s products or services and should, therefore, be characterized as a reduction of cost of sales when recognized in the statement of operations. That presumption is overcome when the consideration is either a reimbursement of specific, incremental, identifiable costs incurred to sell the vendor’s products, or a payment for assets or services delivered to the vendor. EITF Issue No. 02-16 is effective for arrangements entered into after November 21, 2002. The adoption of EITF Issue No. 02-16 had no material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In January 2003, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of Accounting Research Bulletin (“ARB”) No. 51” (“FIN 46”). FIN 46 requires certain variable interest entities to be consolidated by the primary beneficiary of the entity if the equity investors in the entity do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties. FIN 46 is effective for all new variable interest entities created or acquired after January 31, 2003. For variable interest entities created or acquired prior to February 1, 2003, the provisions of FIN 46 must be applied for the first interim or annual period ending after December 15, 2003. The Company is currently in the process of evaluating the impact of FIN 46 and has not yet determined the impact on the Company’s results of operations or financial position.

 

In July 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities.” SFAS No. 146 addresses financial accounting and reporting for costs associated with exit or disposal activities and nullifies EITF Issue No. 94-3, “Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs to Exit an Activity (including Certain Costs Incurred in a Restructuring).” The principal difference between SFAS No. 146 and EITF Issue No. 94-3 relates to the timing of liability recognition. Under SFAS No. 146, a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity is recognized when the liability is incurred. Under EITF Issue No. 94-3, a liability for an exit cost was recognized at the dat e of an entity’s commitment to an exit plan. The provisions of SFAS No. 146 are effective for exit or disposal activities that are initiated after December 31, 2002. The adoption of SFAS No. 146 had no material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In April 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145, “Rescission of SFAS Nos. 4, 44, and 64, Amendment of SFAS No. 13, and Technical Corrections.” SFAS No. 4 required all gains and losses from the extinguishment of debt to be reported as extraordinary items and SFAS No. 64 related to the same matter. SFAS No. 145 requires gains and losses from certain debt extinguishment not to be reported as extraordinary items when the use of debt extinguishment is part of a risk management strategy. SFAS No. 44 was issued to establish transitional requirements for motor carriers. Those transitions are completed, therefore SFAS No. 145 rescinds SFAS No. 44. SFAS No. 145 also amends SFAS No. 13 requiring sale-leaseback accounting for certain lease modifications. SFAS No. 145 is effective for fiscal years beginning after May 15, 2002. The provisions relating to sale-leaseback accounting are effective for transactions occurring after May 15, 2002. The adoption of SFAS No. 145 had no material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

14

 

4. RESTRUCTURING RESERVES

 

The following represents the reserve and activity associated with the March 2000 and October 2001 restructurings (in thousands):

 

		For the Nine Months Ended September 28, 2003
		Restructuring Reserves as of December 29, 2002			Costs Paid			Restructuring Reserves as of September 28, 2003
Rent		$	679		$	(216	)	$	463
Utilities and real estate taxes		121			(85		)	36
Equipment		77			(77		)	—
Other		60			(29		)	31
Total		$	937		$	(407	)	$	530

 

		For the Nine Months Ended September 29, 2002
		Restructuring Reserves as of December 30, 2001			Costs Paid			Reserve Reduction			Restructuring Reserves as of September 29, 2002
Severance pay		$	516		$	(473	)	$	(43	)	$	—
Rent		1,318			(320		)	(298		)	700
Utilities and real estate taxes		185			(89		)	(3		)	93
Equipment		480			(197		)	219			502
Outplacement services		6			(6		)	—			—
Other		551			(126		)	(275		)	150
Total		$	3,056		$	(1,211	)	$	(400	)	$	1,445

 

Based on information currently available, management believes that the restructuring reserve as of September 28, 2003 was adequate and not excessive.

 

15

 

5. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

In 1994, TRC Realty LLC (a subsidiary of TRC, whose majority equity owner is the Company’s Chairman) entered into a ten-year operating lease for an aircraft for use by both the Company and TRC (which operates restaurants using the trademark Perkins Restaurant and Bakery (“Perkins”)). In 1999, this lease was cancelled and TRC Realty LLC entered into a new ten-year operating lease for a new aircraft. The Company shared proportionately with Perkins in reimbursing TRC Realty LLC for leasing, tax and insurance expenses. In addition, the Company also incurred actual usage costs. During the year ended December 29, 2002, the Company expensed its share of the expected net loss on the termination of the cost sharing arrangement as TRC Realty LLC anticipated terminating the lease and disposing of the aircraft by May 2003. The Company’s share of the expected net loss was approximately $950,000 and was included in operating expenses in the consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 29, 2002. At the Company’s July 23, 2003 Board of Directors meeting, the disinterested Board members approved a payment up to $1,000,000 to TRC Realty LLC and on August 26, 2003, a payment of approximately $868,000 was made to TRC Realty LLC that terminated the Company’s cost sharing arrangement with Perkins. The payment exceeded the remaining reserve for expected losses by approximately $86,000, which was reflected in operating expenses for the quarter ended September 28, 2003. Under the cost sharing arrangement, which would have expired in January 2010, the Company paid approximately $500,000 annually.

 

During August 2003, Friendly’s entered into a single restaurant franchise agreement with Treats of Huntersville LLC (“Treats”). The owner of Treats is a family member of the Company’s Chairman of the Board of Directors. The transaction was a standard agreement in compliance with the terms and conditions of the Uniform Franchise Offering Circular allowing Treats to operate one location. The location, which was initially opened by a former franchisee but closed in July 2002, was reopened by Treats in August 2003. Treats paid an initial franchise fee of $35,000, which was included in income during the quarter ended September 28, 2003.

 

6. FRANCHISE TRANSACTIONS

 

In 2000, the Company and its first franchisee, Friendco Restaurants Inc., a subsidiary of Davco Restaurants, Inc. (“Davco”), agreed to terminate Davco’s rights as the exclusive developer of new Friendly’s restaurants in Maryland, Delaware, the District of Columbia and northern Virginia, effective December 28, 2000. At that time, Davco had the right to close up to 16 existing franchised locations and operate the remaining 32 locations under their respective existing franchise agreements until such time as a new franchisee was found for those locations. The existing franchise agreements for the 32 locations were modified as of December 29, 2001 to allow early termination subject, however, to liquidated damages on 22 of the 32 franchise agreements. During the year ended December 30, 2001, Davco transferred its rights to three franchised locations to a third party and closed two restaurants.  During the year ended December 29, 2002, Davco transferred its rights to 24 additional franchised locations to six separate third parties and closed six restaurants. During the nine months ended September 28, 2003, Davco closed four restaurants and transferred its rights to three additional franchised locations to two third parties. As of September 28, 2003, Friendco Restaurants Inc. owned six restaurants. During June 2003, the Company entered into a Settlement Agreement and Mutual General Release (the “Agreement”) with Davco. The Agreement released Davco from all obligations and guarantees related to certain leases associated with franchised locations. Proceeds received in connection with the Agreement were $250,000, which was recorded as revenue in the nine months ended September 28, 2003.

 

During July 2003, the Company entered into a development agreement granting Jax Family Rest., Inc. (“Jax”) certain limited exclusive rights to operate and develop Friendly’s full-service restaurants in designated areas within Baker, Clay, Nassau, Putnam and St. John’s counties, Florida (the “Jax Agreement”). Pursuant to the Jax Agreement, Jax agreed to open 10 new restaurants over the next seven years. The Company received development fees of $155,000, which represent one-half of the initial franchise fees. The $155,000 will be recognized into income as restaurants are opened.

 

16

 

8. SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

FICC’s obligation related to the Senior Notes are guaranteed fully and unconditionally by one of FICC’s wholly owned subsidiaries. There are no restrictions on FICC’s ability to obtain dividends or other distributions of funds from this subsidiary, except those imposed by applicable law. The following supplemental financial information sets forth, on a condensed consolidating basis, balance sheets, statements of operations and statements of cash flows for FICC (the “Parent Company”), Friendly’s Restaurants Franchise, Inc. (the “Guarantor Subsidiary”) and Friendly’s International, Inc., Restaurant Insurance Corporation, Friendly’s Realty I, LLC, Friendly’s Realty II, LLC and Friendly’s Realty III, LLC (collectively, the “Non-guarantor Subsidiaries”). All of the LLCs’ assets were owned by the LLCs, which are separate entities with separate creditors which will be entitled to be satisfied out of the LLCs’ assets. Separate complete financial statements and other disclosures of the Guarantor Subsidiary as of September 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002 and for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002 were not presented because management has determined that such information is not material to investors.

 

Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for by the Parent Company on the equity method for purposes of the supplemental consolidating presentation. Earnings of the subsidiaries are, therefore, reflected in the Parent Company’s investment accounts and earnings. The principal elimination entries eliminate the Parent Company’s investments in subsidiaries and intercompany balances and transactions.

 

17

 

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

As of September 28, 2003

(In thousands)

 

		Parent Company			Guarantor Subsidiary			Non- guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	26,882		$	2,948		$	1,721		$	—		$	31,551
Restricted cash		—			—			1,945			—			1,945
Accounts receivable, net		9,059			1,393			—			—			10,452
Inventories		15,393			—			—			—			15,393
Deferred income taxes		7,718			18			—			35			7,771
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		8,202			1,151			7,780			(14,248		)	2,885
Total current assets		67,254			5,510			11,446			(14,213		)	69,997
Deferred income taxes		—			264			—			(264		)	—
Property and equipment, net		115,624			—			47,894			—			163,518
Intangibles and deferred costs, net		15,767			—			2,548			—			18,315
Investments in subsidiaries		5,183			—			—			(5,183		)	—
Other assets		4,902			8,141			915			(8,141		)	5,817
Total assets		$	208,730		$	13,915		$	62,803		$	(27,801	)	$	257,647
Liabilities and Stockholders’ (Deficit) Equity
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term obligations		$	8,535		$	—		$	1,093		$	(7,776	)	$	1,852
Accounts payable		22,565			—			—			—			22,565
Accrued expenses		38,320			4,514			6,631			(6,280		)	43,185
Total current liabilities		69,420			4,514			7,724			(14,056		)	67,602
Deferred income taxes		4,085			—			—			(229		)	3,856
Long-term obligations, less current maturities		181,112			—			52,281			—			233,393
Other long-term liabilities		50,487			890			6,126			(8,333		)	49,170
Stockholders’ (deficit) equity		(96,374		)	8,511			(3,328		)	(5,183		)	(96,374		)
Total liabilities and stockholders’ (deficit) equity		$	208,730		$	13,915		$	62,803		$	(27,801	)	$	257,647

 

18

 

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Three Months Ended September 28, 2003

(In thousands)

 

		Parent Company			Guarantor Subsidiary			Non- guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Revenues		$	158,083		$	2,267		$	—		$	—		$	160,350
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales		56,561			—			—			—			56,561
Labor and benefits		45,402			—			—			—			45,402
Operating expenses and write-downs of property and equipment		31,276			—			(1,740		)	—			29,536
General and administrative expenses		8,781			1,158			—			—			9,939
Depreciation and amortization		4,821			—			570			—			5,391
Loss on disposals of other property and equipment, net		88			—			3			—			91
Interest expense, net		4,883			—			1,165			—			6,048
Income before provision for income taxes and equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		6,271			1,109			2			—			7,382
Provision for income taxes		(1,561		)	(455		)	(51		)	—			(2,067		)
Income (loss) before equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		4,710			654			(49		)	—			5,315
Equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		605			—			—			(605		)	—
Net income (loss)		$	5,315		$	654		$	(49	)	$	(605	)	$	5,315

 

19

 

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Nine Months Ended September 28, 2003

(In thousands)

 

		Parent Company			Guarantor Subsidiary			Non- guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Revenues		$	438,247		$	6,441		$	—		$	—		$	444,688
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales		157,717			—			—			—			157,717
Labor and benefits		127,326			—			—			—			127,326
Operating expenses and write-downs of property and equipment		90,337			—			(5,199		)	—			85,138
General and administrative expenses		24,921			3,476			—			—			28,397
Depreciation and amortization		15,046			—			1,718			—			16,764
Loss on disposals of other property and equipment, net		1,379			—			120			—			1,499
Interest expense, net		14,772			—			3,470			—			18,242
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes and equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		6,749			2,965			(109		)	—			9,605
Provision for income taxes		(1,329		)	(1,216		)	(144		)	—			(2,689		)
Income (loss) before equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		5,420			1,749			(253		)	—			6,916
Equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		1,496			—			—			(1,496		)	—
Net income (loss)		$	6,916		$	1,749		$	(253	)	$	(1,496	)	$	6,916

 

20

 

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

For the Nine Months Ended September 28, 2003

(In thousands)

 

		Parent Company			Guarantor Subsidiary			Non- guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities		$	21,572		$	1,004		$	(592	)	$	928		$	22,912
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment		(21,291		)	—			—			—			(21,291		)
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment		63			—			—			—			63
Return of investment in subsidiary		535			—			—			(535		)	—
Net cash used in investing activities		(20,693		)	—			—			(535		)	(21,228		)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of obligations		(3,942		)	—			(760		)	—			(4,702		)
Stock options exercised		228			—			—			—			228
Reinsurance deposits received		—			—			2,207			(2,207		)	—
Reinsurance payments made from deposits		—			—			(1,279		)	1,279			—
Dividends paid		—			—			(535		)	535			—
Net cash used in financing activities		(3,714		)	—			(367		)	(393		)	(4,474		)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		(2,835		)	1,004			(959		)	—			(2,790		)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		29,717			1,944			2,680			—			34,341
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period		$	26,882		$	2,948		$	1,721		$	—		$	31,551
Supplemental disclosures:
Interest paid		$	9,945		$	—		$	3,490		$	—		$	13,435
Income taxes (refunded) paid		(653		)	1,251			363			—			961
Capital lease obligations incurred		680			—			—			—			680
Lease incentive equipment received		243			—			—			—			243

 

21

 

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

As of December 29, 2002

 

(In thousands)

 

		Parent Company			Guarantor Subsidiary			Non- guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	29,717		$	1,944		$	2,680		$	—		$	34,341
Accounts receivable, net		9,695			1,158			—			—			10,853
Inventories		17,278			—			—			—			17,278
Deferred income taxes		7,718			18			—			35			7,771
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		8,624			1,175			7,778			(14,515		)	3,062
Total current assets		73,032			4,295			10,458			(14,480		)	73,305
Deferred income taxes		—			264			—			(264		)	—
Property and equipment, net		108,805			—			49,568			—			158,373
Intangibles and deferred costs, net		16,930			—			2,712			—			19,642
Investments in subsidiaries		4,222			—			—			(4,222		)	—
Other assets		4,963			6,742			915			(6,742		)	5,878
Total assets		$	207,952		$	11,301		$	63,653		$	(25,708	)	$	257,198
Liabilities and Stockholders’ (Deficit) Equity
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term obligations		$	9,138		$	—		$	1,031		$	(7,776	)	$	2,393
Accounts payable		23,902			—			—			—			23,902
Accrued expenses		42,581			3,654			6,861			(6,654		)	46,442
Total current liabilities		75,621			3,654			7,892			(14,430		)	72,737
Deferred income taxes		1,762			—			—			(229		)	1,533
Long-term obligations, less current maturities		183,771			—			53,103			—			236,874
Other long-term liabilities		50,500			885			5,198			(6,827		)	49,756
Stockholders’ (deficit) equity		(103,702		)	6,762			(2,540		)	(4,222		)	(103,702		)
Total liabilities and stockholders’ (deficit) equity		$	207,952		$	11,301		$	63,653		$	(25,708	)	$	257,198

 

22

 

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Three Months Ended September 29, 2002

(In thousands)

 

		Parent Company			Guarantor Subsidiary			Non- guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Revenues		$	156,103		$	2,211		$	—		$	—		$	158,314
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales		57,079			—			—			—			57,079
Labor and benefits		43,457			—			—			—			43,457
Operating expenses and write-downs of property and equipment		32,680			—			(1,734		)	—			30,946
General and administrative expenses		8,204			1,165			—			—			9,369
Depreciation and amortization		5,515			—			582			—			6,097
Loss on franchise sales of restaurant operations and properties		21			—			—			—			21
(Gain) loss on disposals of other property and equipment, net		(219		)	—			69			—			(150		)
Interest expense, net		5,027			—			1,185			—			6,212
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes and equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		4,339			1,046			(102		)	—			5,283
Provision for income taxes		(1,312		)	(429		)	(54		)	—			(1,795		)
Income (loss) before equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		3,027			617			(156		)	—			3,488
Equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		461			—			—			(461		)	—
Net income (loss)		$	3,488		$	617		$	(156	)	$	(461	)	$	3,488

 

23

 

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Nine Months Ended September 29, 2002

(In thousands)

 

		Parent Company			Guarantor Subsidiary			Non- guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Revenues		$	433,469		$	6,200		$	—		$	—		$	439,669
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales		156,071			—			—			—			156,071
Labor and benefits		123,618			—			—			—			123,618
Operating expenses and write-downs of property and equipment		90,063			—			(5,224		)	—			84,839
General and administrative expenses		23,156			3,493			—			—			26,649
Reduction of restructuring reserve		(400		)	—			—			—			(400		)
Depreciation and amortization		17,417			—			1,753			—			19,170
Loss on franchise sales of restaurant operations and properties		21			—			—			—			21
Loss on disposals of other property and equipment, net		422			—			69			—			491
Interest expense, net		15,244			—			3,520			—			18,764
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes and equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		7,857			2,707			(118		)	—			10,446
Provision for income taxes		(2,210		)	(1,110		)	(231		)	—			(3,551		)
Income (loss) before equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		5,647			1,597			(349		)	—			6,895
Equity in net income of consolidated subsidiaries		1,248			—			—			(1,248		)	—
Net income (loss)		$	6,895		$	1,597		$	(349	)	$	(1,248	)	$	6,895

 

24

 

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

For the Nine Months Ended September 29, 2002

(In thousands)

 

		Parent Company			Guarantor Subsidiary			Non- guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Net cash provided by operating activities		$	29,482		$	965		$	2,559		$	(1,209	)	$	31,797
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment		(9,004		)	—			—			—			(9,004		)
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment		3,426			—			—			—			3,426
Return of investment in subsidiary		450			—			—			(450		)	—
Net cash used in investing activities		(5,128		)	—			—			(450		)	(5,578		)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of obligations		(2,572		)	—			(615		)	1,038			(2,149		)
Stock options exercised		133			—			—			—			133
Reinsurance deposits received		—			—			2,024			(2,024		)	—
Reinsurance payments made from deposits		—			—			(2,195		)	2,195			—
Dividends paid		—			—			(450		)	450			—
Net cash used in financing activities		(2,439		)	—			(1,236		)	1,659			(2,016		)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents		21,915			965			1,323			—			24,203
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		15,116			104			1,122			—			16,342
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period		$	37,031		$	1,069		$	2,445		$	—		$	40,545
Supplemental disclosures:
Interest paid		$	9,780		$	—		$	3,250		$	—		$	13,030
Income taxes (refunded) paid		(1,029		)	1,020			—			—			(9		)

 

25

 

Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and the notes thereto included elsewhere herein.

 

Forward Looking Statements

 

Statements contained herein that are not historical facts constitute “forward looking statements” as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All forward looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause results to differ materially from those anticipated. These factors include the Company’s highly competitive business environment, exposure to commodity prices, risks associated with the foodservice industry, the ability to retain and attract new employees, government regulations, the Company’s high geographic concentration in the Northeast and its attendant weather patterns, conditions needed to meet restaurant re-imaging and new opening targets and costs associated with improved service and other initiatives. Other factors that may cause actual results to differ from the forward looking statements contained herein and that may affect the Company’s prospects in general are included in the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Overview

 

The Company’s revenues are derived primarily from the operation of full-service restaurants, the distribution and sale of frozen desserts through retail and institutional locations and franchising. Friendly’s owns and operates 380 full-service restaurants, franchises 155 full-service restaurants and six non-traditional units and manufactures a full line of frozen desserts distributed through more than 3,500 supermarkets and other retail locations in 14 states.

 

Following is a summary of the Company-owned and franchised units:

 

		For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
		September 28, 2003		September 29, 2002		September 28, 2003		September 29, 2002
Company Units:
Beginning of period		382		390		387		393
Openings		—		—		1		—
Closings		(2	)	(1	)	(8	)	(4	)
End of period		380		389		380		389
Franchised Units:
Beginning of period		162		165		162		167
Openings		1		1		3		4
Closings		(2	)	(4	)	(4	)	(9	)
End of period		161		162		161		162

 

26

 

Following is a summary of systemwide restaurant sales (dollars in thousands):

 

		For the Three Months Ended						For the Nine months Ended
		September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002			September 28, 2003			September 29, 2002
Systemwide sales:
Company restaurants		$	127,605		$	124,885		$	353,775		$	351,034
Franchise restaurants		56,129			53,626			157,336			150,102
Total restaurant sales		$	183,734		$	178,511		$	511,111		$	501,136
Increase in comparable restaurant sales:
Company restaurants		2.9		%	7.0		%	1.9		%	7.3		%
Franchise restaurants		5.1		%	9.2		%	4.9		%	10.4		%
Systemwide		3.5		%	7.6		%	2.8		%	8.2		%

 

Three months ended September 28, 2003 compared with three months ended September 29, 2002

 

Revenues:

 

Total revenues increased $2.1 million, or 1.3%, to $160.4 million for the third quarter ended September 28, 2003 from $158.3 million for the same quarter in 2002. Restaurant revenues increased $2.7 million, or 2.2%, to $127.6 million for the third quarter of 2003 from $124.9 million for the same quarter in 2002. Comparable company-owned restaurant revenues increased 2.9% from the 2002 quarter to the 2003 quarter as increases occurred in all dayparts except breakfast, which decreased. Two locations were re-imaged during the third quarter ended September 28, 2003. The operating days lost during the re-imaging construction period for these locations were negligible. The opening of one new restaurant in June 2003 increased restaurant revenues by $0.5 million. The closing of ten locations over the past 15 months resulted in a $1.4 million decline in restaurant revenues in the 2003 period as compared to the 2002 period. Foodservice (product sales to franchisees and retail customers) revenues decreased by $0.6 million, or 1.9%, to $30.2 million for the third quarter ended September 28, 2003 from $30.8 million for the same quarter in 2002. Franchised restaurant product revenues increased by $0.3 million while sales to foodservice retail supermarket customers declined by $0.9 million. Case volume in the Company’s retail supermarket business decreased by 7.6% for the quarter ended September 28, 2003 when compared to the same quarter in 2002. Franchise royalty and fee revenues decreased $0.1 million, or 3.5%, to $2.6 million for the third quarter ended September 28, 2003 compared to $2.7 million for the same quarter in 2002. The closings of subleased franchised locations reduced franchised rental income by $0.1 million. Initial franchise fees associated with transfers of exiting franchised locations were also lower by $0.1 million in the 2003 period when compared to the 2002 period. Partially offsetting the declines was a $0.1 million, or 6.3%, increase in royalties on franchisee sales. Comparable franchised restaurant revenues increased 5.1% from the 2002 quarter to the 2003 quarter. There were 161 and 162 franchise units open at September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively.

 

27

 

Cost of sales:

 

Cost of sales decreased $0.5 million, or 0.9% to $56.6 million for the three months ended September 28, 2003 from $57.1 million for the same period in 2002. Cost of sales as a percentage of total revenues decreased to 35.3% for the quarter ended September 28, 2003 from 36.1% for the same period in 2002. The lower food cost as a percentage of total revenue was due to a shift in sales mix from foodservice sales to Company-owned restaurant sales. Foodservice sales to franchisees and retail supermarket customers have a higher food cost as a percentage of revenue than sales in Company-owned restaurants to restaurant patrons. Increased manufactured volumes of ice cream and related products and efficiencies in the Company’s manufacturing facilities more than offset the higher cost of cream in the 2003 period when compared to the 2002 period. A decline in foodservice retail sales promotional allowances, recorded as offsets to revenues, also had a favorable impact on total cost of sales as a percentage of total revenues. As a percentage of restaurant revenues, cost of sales decreased to 26.9% in the 2003 period as compared to 27.3% in the 2002 period, in part due to an improvement in food cost controls in the current period.

 

Labor and benefits:

 

Labor and benefits increased $1.9 million, or 4.5%, to $45.4 million for the third quarter ended September 28, 2003 from $43.5 million for the same quarter in 2002. Labor and benefits as a percentage of total revenues increased to 28.3% for the third quarter ended September 28, 2003 from 27.4% for the same quarter in 2002. As a percentage of restaurant revenues, labor and benefits increased to 35.6% for the 2003 period from 34.8% in the 2002 period. The increase in labor and benefits as a percentage of restaurant revenue resulted from an increase in restaurant general manager bonuses as restaurant level profitability improved, the expansion of operating hours at some restaurants and an overall decline in staffing efficiencies during the breakfast daypart as breakfast sales have declined when compared to the same period in 2002. A continued emphasis on guest satisfaction also resulted in an increase in costs. Additionally, higher workers compensation costs, increased payroll taxes and a reduced restaurant pension benefit in the 2003 period when compared to the 2002 period contributed to the increase. Revenue increases derived from franchised locations and retail supermarket customers, which do not have any associated restaurant labor and benefits, reduced the impact of the higher restaurant labor and benefits as a percentage of total revenues.

 

Operating expenses:

 

Operating expenses decreased $1.4 million, or 4.6%, to $29.5 million for the third quarter ended September 28, 2003 from $30.9 million for the same quarter in 2002. Operating expenses as a percentage of total revenues were 18.4% and 19.5% for the third quarters ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively. The decrease as a percentage of total revenues resulted from lower restaurant maintenance and restaurant advertising costs in the 2003 period when compared to the 2002 period.

 

General and administrative expenses:

 

General and administrative expenses were $9.9 million and $9.4 million for the third quarters ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively. General and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenues increased to 6.2% for the third quarter ended September 28, 2003 from 5.9% for the same period in 2002. The increase is primarily the result of salary merit increases, higher employment recruitment costs at the Company’s headquarters, increases in legal fees, higher severance costs and a reduction in the pension benefit.  Bonus expense was lower in the 2003 period when compared to the same period in 2002.

 

28

 

Reduction of restructuring reserve:

 

Reduction of restructuring reserve was $0.4 million for the three month period ended September 29, 2002. The Company reduced the restructuring reserve by $0.4 million during 2002 since the reserve exceeded estimated remaining payments.

 

Write-downs of property and equipment:

 

Write-downs of property and equipment were $26 thousand for the three month period ended September 28, 2003 as a result of a write-down of a vacant land parcel.

 

Depreciation and amortization:

 

Depreciation and amortization decreased $0.7 million, or 11.6%, to $5.4 million for the third quarter ended September 28, 2003 from $6.1 million for the same quarter in 2002. Depreciation and amortization as a percentage of total revenues was 3.4% and 3.9% in the 2003 and 2002 quarters, respectively. The reduction reflects the decline in depreciation expense associated with certain purchased software at the Company’s headquarters and fully depreciated restaurant equipment.

 

Loss (gain) on disposals of other property and equipment, net:

 

The loss on disposals of other property and equipment, net, was $0.1 million for the quarter ended September 28, 2003 compared to a gain on disposals of other property and equipment, net, of $0.2 million for the quarter ended September 29, 2002. The loss in the 2003 quarter primarily resulted from disposals related to the replacement of inoperative equipment. The gain during 2002 primarily resulted from the sale of one restaurant location, which was partially offset by fire losses incurred during the period.

 

Interest expense, net:

 

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest and interest income, decreased by $0.2 million, or 2.6%, to $6.0 million for the third quarter ended September 28, 2003 from $6.2 million for the same period in 2002. The decrease was primarily the result of the decrease in the average outstanding debt in the 2003 quarter compared to the 2002 quarter and lower interest rates.

 

Provision for income taxes:

 

The provision for income taxes was $2.1 million, or 28.0%, and $1.8 million, or 34.0%, for the third quarters ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively. The rate in 2002 was reduced in the subsequent quarter as tax credits and changes to state valuation allowances reduced the rate.

 

Net income:

 

Net income was $5.3 million and $3.5 million for the third quarters ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively, for the reasons discussed above.

 

29

 

Nine months ended September 28, 2003 compared with nine months ended September 29, 2002

 

Revenues:

 

Total revenues increased $5.0 million, or 1.1%, to $444.7 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from $439.7 million for the same period in 2002. Restaurant revenues increased $2.8 million, or 0.8%, to $353.8 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from $351.0 million for the same period in 2002. Record snowfall during the first quarter of the current year and increased rainfall during the second and third quarters of the current year had an unfavorable impact on restaurant revenues when compared to the prior year. Comparable company-owned restaurant revenues increased 1.9% from the 2002 period to the 2003 period as increases occurred in all dayparts except breakfast, which decreased. Operating days in comparable operating units during the 2003 period were reduced by 0.2% due to construction period closings associated with the Company’s re-imaging program.  Twenty-six locations were re-imaged during the nine months ended September 28, 2003.  The opening of one new restaurant in June 2003 increased restaurant revenues by $0.6 million. The closing of 14 locations over the past 21 months resulted in a $3.6 million decline in restaurant revenues in the 2003 period as compared to the 2002 period. Foodservice (product sales to franchisees and retail customers) revenues increased by $2.1 million, or 2.6%, to $83.4 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from $81.3 million for the same period in 2002. Franchised restaurant product revenues and sales to foodservice retail supermarket customers increased by $0.4 million and $1.7 million, respectively. Case volume in the Company’s retail supermarket business increased by 3.6% for the nine-months ended September 28, 2003 when compared to the same period in 2002. Franchise royalty and fee revenues increased $0.2 million, or 2.6%, to $7.5 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 compared to $7.3 million for the same period in 2002. Royalties on franchised sales increased $0.4 million, or 6.9%, as comparable franchised restaurant revenues grew 4.9% from the 2002 period to the 2003 period. Initial franchise fees associated with transfers of existing franchised locations and forfeited development fees were lower by $0.2 million in the 2003 period when compared to the 2002 period. Declines in rental income for subleased locations were offset by $0.3 million received in the 2003 period pursuant to an agreement releasing Davco from all obligations and guarantees related to certain leases associated with franchised locations. There were 161 and 162 franchise units open at September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively.

 

Cost of sales:

 

Cost of sales increased $1.6 million, or 1.1% to $157.7 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from $156.1 million for the nine months ended September 29, 2002. Cost of sales as a percentage of total revenues was 35.5% for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002. Higher cream prices in the 2003 period when compared to the 2002 period and a shift in sales mix from Company-owned restaurant sales to foodservice sales were offset by an improvement in restaurant food cost controls and efficiencies in the Company’s manufacturing facility. Foodservice sales to franchisees and retail supermarket customers have a higher food cost as a percentage of revenue than sales in Company-owned restaurants to restaurant patrons. Foodservice retail sales promotional allowances, recorded as offsets to revenues, were approximately the same percentage of gross retail sales in both periods. The Company expects that cream prices will be higher in the fourth quarter of 2003 when compared to the same period in 2002. Restaurant cost of sales as a percentage of restaurant revenues decreased to 26.8% for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from 27.2% for the same period in 2002. The decrease in the 2003 period when compared to the 2002 period was in part due to an improvement in food cost controls in the current period.

 

30

 

The cost of cream, the principal ingredient used in making ice cream, affects cost of sales as a percentage of total revenues, especially in foodservice’s retail business. A $0.10 increase in the cost of a pound of AA butter adversely affects the Company’s annual cost of sales by approximately $1.1 million, which may be offset by a price increase or other factors. To minimize risk, alternative supply sources continue to be pursued. However, no assurance can be given that the Company will be able to offset any cost increases in the future and future increases in cream prices could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations.

 

Labor and benefits:

 

Labor and benefits increased $3.7 million, or 3.0%, to $127.3 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from $123.6 million for the same period in 2002. Labor and benefits as a percentage of total revenues increased to 28.6% for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from 28.1% for the same period in 2002. As a percentage of restaurant revenues, labor and benefits increased to 36.0% for the 2003 period from 35.3% in the 2002 period. The increase in labor and benefits as a percentage of restaurant revenue was primarily due to higher workers compensation costs, increased payroll taxes and a reduced restaurant pension benefit in the 2003 period when compared to the 2002 period. Minimum staffing requirements during the breakfast daypart have also had an adverse impact on labor costs in the current period when compared to the same period in 2002. Revenue increases derived from franchised locations and retail supermarket customers, which do not have any associated restaurant labor and benefits, reduced the impact of the higher restaurant benefits as a percentage of total revenues.

 

Operating expenses:

 

Operating expenses increased $0.7 million, or 0.8%, to $85.1 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from $84.4 million for the same period in 2002. Operating expenses as a percentage of total revenues were 19.1% and 19.2% for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively. The increase in dollars resulted from higher restaurant costs for snow removal, natural gas and advertising in the 2003 period when compared to the 2002 period.

 

General and administrative expenses:

 

General and administrative expenses were $28.4 million and $26.6 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively. General and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenues increased to 6.4% for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from 6.1% for the same period in 2002. The increase is primarily the result of salary merit increases, higher employment recruitment costs for field management and headquarters positions, increases in legal fees, higher severance costs and a reduction in the pension benefit. Bonus expense was lower in the 2003 period when compared to the same period in 2002.

 

Reduction of restructuring reserve:

 

Reduction of restructuring reserve was $0.4 million for the nine month period ended September 29, 2002. The Company reduced the restructuring reserve by $0.4 million during 2002 since the reserve exceeded estimated remaining payments.

 

31

 

Write-downs of property and equipment:

 

Write-downs of property and equipment were $26 thousand and $0.4 million for the nine month periods ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively, primarily as a result of write-downs of a vacant land parcel in both periods.

 

Depreciation and amortization:

 

Depreciation and amortization decreased $2.4 million, or 12.6%, to $16.8 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from $19.2 million for the same period in 2002. Depreciation and amortization as a percentage of total revenues was 3.8% and 4.4% in the 2003 and 2002 periods, respectively. The reduction reflects the decline in depreciation expense associated with certain purchased software at the Company’s headquarters and fully depreciated restaurant equipment.

 

Loss (gain) on disposals of other property and equipment, net:

 

The loss on disposals of other property and equipment, net, was $1.5 million and $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, respectively.  The loss in the nine month period in 2003 primarily resulted from disposals related to the remodeling of restaurants and the replacement of inoperative equipment. The loss during the nine month period in 2002 primarily resulted from the sale of idle land and four closed locations.

 

Interest expense, net:

 

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest and interest income, decreased by $0.6 million, or 2.8%, to $18.2 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 from $18.8 million for the same period in 2002. The decrease was primarily the result of the decrease in the average outstanding debt in the 2003 period compared to the 2002 period and lower interest rates. Total outstanding debt, including capital lease and finance obligations, was reduced from $239.3 million at September 29, 2002 to $235.2 million at September 28, 2003.

 

Provision for income taxes:

 

The provision for income taxes was $2.7 million, or 28.0%, for the nine months ended September 28, 2003. At this time, the Company estimates that the effective tax rate for 2003 will be 28.0%. The provision for income taxes was $3.6 million, or 34.0%, for the nine months ended September 29, 2002. The rate in 2002 was reduced in the subsequent quarter as tax credits and changes to state valuation allowances reduced the rate. The tax rate for the 2002 fiscal year was 24.0%.

 

Net income:

 

Net income was $6.9 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002 for the reasons discussed above.

 

32

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

The Company’s primary sources of liquidity and capital resources are cash generated from operations and, if needed, borrowings under its revolving credit facility. Net cash provided by operating activities was $22.9 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003. During the nine months ended September 28, 2003, inventory decreased by $1.9 million primarily due to high quantities of purchased frozen goods on hand in December 2002 in preparation for the January 2003 marketing event. Other assets increased $1.7 million primarily as a result of restricted cash of $1.9 million. There was no restricted cash as of December 29, 2002 as this requirement was satisfied with a letter of credit. Accounts payable, trade decreased by $1.3 million primarily as a result of decreased inventory purchases and the timing of rent payments. Accrued expenses and other long-term liabilities decreased $4.1 million as a result of $3.7 million of payments made for accrued construction costs, $4.3 million of corporate and restaurant bonus payments and a reduction of $0.9 million in the gift card liability as a result of redemptions of holiday gift cards sold. These decreases were partially offset by higher accrued interest of $4.7 million due to the timing of interest payment dates.

 

Additional sources of liquidity consist of capital and operating leases for financing leased restaurant locations (in malls and shopping centers and land or building leases), restaurant equipment, manufacturing equipment, distribution vehicles and computer equipment. Additionally, sales of under-performing existing restaurant properties and other assets (to the extent FICC’s and its subsidiaries’ debt instruments permit) are sources of cash. The amount of debt financing that FICC will be able to incur is limited by the terms of its New Credit Facility and Senior Notes Indenture.

 

Net cash used in investing activities was $21.2 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003. Capital expenditures for restaurant operations were approximately $17.9 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2003.

 

The Company had working capital of $2.4 million as of September 28, 2003. The working capital needs of companies engaged in the restaurant industry are generally low and as a result, restaurants are frequently able to operate with a working capital deficit because: (i) restaurant operations are conducted primarily on a cash (and cash equivalent) basis with a low level of accounts receivable; (ii) rapid turnover allows a limited investment in inventories; and (iii) cash from sales is usually received before related expenses for food, supplies and payroll are paid.

 

In December 2001, the Company completed a financial restructuring plan (the “Refinancing Plan”) which included the repayment of the $64.5 million outstanding under the Old Credit Facility and the repurchase of approximately $21.3 million in Senior Notes with the proceeds from $55.0 million in long-term mortgage financing (the “Mortgage Financing”) and a $33.7 million sale and leaseback transaction (the “Sale/Leaseback Financing”). In addition, FICC secured a new $30.0 million revolving credit facility (the “New Credit Facility”) of which up to $20.0 million is available to support letters of credit. The $30.0 million commitment less outstanding letters of credit is available for borrowing to provide working capital and for other corporate needs. As of September 28, 2003, $16.9 million was available for additional borrowings under the New Credit Facility, total letters of credit outstanding were approximately $13.1 million and there were no revolving credit loans outstanding.

 

33

 

Three new limited liability corporations (“LLCs”) were organized in connection with the Mortgage Financing. Friendly Ice Cream Corporation is the sole member of each LLC. FICC sold 75 of its operating Friendly’s restaurants to the LLCs in exchange for the proceeds from the Mortgage Financing. Promissory notes were issued for each of the 75 properties. Each LLC is a separate entity with separate creditors which will be entitled to be satisfied out of such LLC’s assets. Each LLC is a borrower under the Mortgage Financing.

 

The Mortgage Financing has a maturity date of January 1, 2022 and is amortized over 20 years. Interest on $10 million of the original $55 million from the Mortgage Financing is variable and is the sum of the 30-day LIBOR rate in effect (1.12% at September 28, 2003) plus 6% on an annual basis. Changes in the interest rate are calculated monthly and recognized annually when the monthly payment amount is adjusted. Changes in the monthly payment amounts owed due to interest rate changes are reflected in the principal balances which are re-amortized over the remaining life of the mortgages. The remaining $45 million of the original $55 million from the Mortgage Financing bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 10.16%. Each promissory note may be prepaid in full. The variable rate notes are subject to prepayment penalties during the first five years. The fixed rate notes may not be prepaid without the Company providing the note holders with a yield maintenance premium.

 

The Mortgage Financing requires the Company to maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio, as defined, of at least 1.10 to 1 and each LLC to maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio, as defined, on an aggregate restaurant basis of at least 1.25 to 1, in each case calculated as of the last day of each fiscal year. The Company is in compliance with these covenants.

 

The New Credit Facility is secured by substantially all of the assets of FICC and two of its six subsidiaries, Friendly’s Restaurants Franchise Inc. and Friendly’s International Inc. These two subsidiaries also guaranty FICC’s obligations under the New Credit Facility. The New Credit Facility was amended on December 27, 2002 to extend the maturity date to December 17, 2005. As of September 28, 2003, there were no revolving credit loans outstanding.

 

The revolving credit loans bear interest at the Company’s option at either (a) the Base Rate plus the applicable margin as in effect from time to time (the “Base Rate”) (6.50% at September 28, 2003) or (b) the Eurodollar rate plus the applicable margin as in effect from time to time (the “Eurodollar Rate”) (5.55% at September 28, 2003).

 

As of September 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002, total letters of credit outstanding were approximately $13.1 million and $14.6 million, respectively. During the nine months ended September 28, 2003 and September 29, 2002, there were no drawings against the letters of credit.

 

34

 

The New Credit Facility has an annual “clean-up” provision which obligates the Company to repay in full all revolving credit loans on or before September 30 (or, if September 30 is not a business day, as defined, then the next business day) of each year and maintain a zero balance on such revolving credit for at least 30 consecutive days, to include September 30, immediately following the date of such repayment.

 

The New Credit Facility includes certain restrictive covenants including limitations on indebtedness, restricted payments such as dividends and stock repurchases and sales of assets and of subsidiary stock. Additionally, the New Credit Facility limits the amount which the Company may spend on capital expenditures, restricts the use of proceeds, as defined, from asset sales and requires the Company to comply with certain financial covenants. The Company is in compliance with these covenants.

 

In connection with the Refinancing Plan, in December 2001 the Company entered into and accounted for the Sale/Leaseback Financing, which provided approximately $33.7 million of proceeds to the Company. The Company sold 44 properties operating as Friendly’s Restaurants and entered into a master lease with the buyer to lease the 44 properties for an initial term of 20 years. There are four five-year renewal options and lease payments are subject to escalator provisions every five years based upon increases in the Consumer Price Index.

 

The $200 million Senior Notes issued in November 1997 (the “Senior Notes”) are unsecured senior obligations of FICC, guaranteed on an unsecured senior basis by FICC’s Friendly’s Restaurants Franchise, Inc. subsidiary, but are effectively subordinated to all secured indebtedness of FICC, including the indebtedness incurred under the New Credit Facility. The Senior Notes mature on December 1, 2007. Interest on the Senior Notes is payable at 10.50% per annum semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year. In connection with the Refinancing Plan, FICC repurchased approximately $21.3 million in aggregate principal amount of the Senior Notes for $17.0 million. On July 3, 2003, the Company obtained a limited waiver to the New Credit Facility to allow the Company to repurchase certain of the Senior Notes in an amount up to $3.0 million, subject to certain conditions. In July 2003, FICC repurchased approximately $2.7 million in aggregate principal amount of the Senior Notes for approximately $2.8 million, the then current market value. The remaining $176.0 million of the Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at FICC’s option at redemption prices from 105.25% to 100.00%, based on the redemption date.

 

The Company anticipates requiring capital in the future principally to maintain existing restaurant and plant facilities and to continue to renovate and re-image existing restaurants. Capital expenditures for the remaining three months of 2003 are anticipated to be $9.8 million in the aggregate, of which $6.5 million is expected to be spent on restaurant operations. The Company’s actual 2003 capital expenditures may vary from these estimated amounts. The Company believes that the combination of the funds anticipated to be generated from operating activities and borrowing availability under the New Credit Facility will be sufficient to meet the Company’s anticipated operating requirements, capital requirements and obligations associated with the restructuring.

 

35

 

The following represents the contractual obligations and commercial commitments of the Company as of September 28, 2003 (in thousands):

 

		Payments due by Period
Contractual Obligations:		Total			Remainder of Fiscal 2003			Fiscal Years 2004 & 2005			Fiscal Years 2006 & 2007			Fiscal Years Beyond 2007
Short-term and long-term debt		$	229,351		$	270		$	2,368		$	178,866		$	47,847
Capital lease and finance obligations		8,928			350			2,505			1,829			4,244
Operating leases		143,689			6,156			32,908			25,024			79,601
Purchase commitments		38,289			33,921			4,287			81			—

 

		Amount of Commitment Expiration by Period
Other Commercial Commitments:		Total			Remainder of Fiscal 2003			Fiscal Years 2004 & 2005			Fiscal Years 2006 & 2007			Fiscal Years Beyond 2007
Letters of credit		$	13,089		$	—		$	13,089		$	—		$	—

 

Seasonality

 

Due to the seasonality of frozen dessert consumption, and the effect from time to time of weather on patronage of the restaurants, the Company’s revenues and operating income are typically higher in its second and third quarters.

 

Geographic Concentration

 

Approximately 89% of the Company-owned restaurants are located, and substantially all of its retail sales are generated, in the Northeast. As a result, a severe or prolonged economic recession or changes in demographic mix, employment levels, population density, weather, real estate market conditions or other factors specific to this geographic region may adversely affect the Company more than certain of its competitors which are more geographically diverse.

 

36

 

Significant Known Events, Trends or Uncertainties

 

Pension Plan Funded Status

 

Certain of the Company’s employees are covered under a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan. As disclosed in the Company’s 2002 Form 10-K, as of the 2002 measurement date (i.e., the Company’s fiscal 2002 year end), this plan had a projected benefit obligation of $98.9 million and a fair value of plan assets of $81.9 million. The Company recognized an additional minimum liability in accordance with SFAS No. 87 during the year ended December 29, 2002. Since the additional minimum liability exceeded unrecognized prior service cost, the excess of $24.7 million, net of the income tax benefit of $10.1 million, was reported as a charge to stockholders’ deficit in 2002. As a result of the overall decline in market interest rates, the Company will use a lower discount rate to measure the projected benefit obligation as of the 2003 measurement date, which will result in an increase to the projected benefit obligation. As a result of the increased unfunded accumulated benefit obligation, the Company will likely be required to record an additional charge to stockholders’ deficit. Although the Company has not yet determined the exact amount of the charge, the Company currently estimates the increased amount of the unfunded accumulated benefit obligation to be approximately $3.0 million and the charge to stockholders’ deficit to be less than the amount of the underfunding.

 

Significant Accounting Policies

 

Financial Reporting Release No. 60 issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission requires all companies to include a discussion of critical accounting policies or methods used in the preparation of financial statements. The following is a brief discussion of the more significant accounting policies and methods used by the Company. The Company’s consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, which are contained in the 2002 Annual Report on Form 10-K should be read in conjunction with this discussion.

 

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements -

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. The critical accounting policies and most significant estimates and assumptions relate to revenue recognition, insurance reserves, recoverability of accounts receivable, restructuring reserves, valuation allowances and pension and other post-retirement benefits expense. Actual amounts could differ significantly from the estimates.

 

Revenue Recognition -

 

The Company’s revenues are derived primarily from the operation of full-service restaurants, the distribution and sale of frozen desserts through retail and institutional locations and franchising. The Company recognizes restaurant revenue upon receipt of payment from the customer and retail revenue, net of discounts and allowances, upon delivery of product. Reserves for discounts and allowances from retail sales are estimated and accrued when revenue is recorded. Actual amounts could differ materially from the estimates. Franchise royalty income, based on net sales of franchisees, is payable monthly and is recorded on the accrual method. Initial franchise fees are recorded as revenue upon completion of all significant services, generally upon opening of the restaurant.

 

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Insurance Reserves -

 

The Company is self-insured through retentions or deductibles for the majority of its workers’ compensation, automobile, general liability, employer’s liability, product liability and group health insurance programs. Self-insurance amounts vary up to $0.5 million per occurrence. Insurance with third parties, some of which is then reinsured through Restaurant Insurance Corporation (“RIC”), the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, is in place for claims in excess of these self-insured amounts. RIC reinsured 100% of the risk from $0.5 million to $1.0 million per occurrence through September 2, 2000 for FICC’s workers’ compensation, general liability, employer’s liability and product liability insurance. Subsequent to September 2, 2000, the Company discontinued its use of RIC as a captive insurer for new claims. FICC’s and RIC’s liabilities for estimated incurred losses are actuarially determined and recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements on an undiscounted basis. Actual incurred losses may vary from the estimated incurred losses and could have a material affect on the Company’s insurance expense.

 

Concentration of Credit Risk -

 

Financial instruments, which potentially expose the Company to concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of accounts receivable. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and generally requires no collateral to secure accounts receivable. The credit review is based on both financial and non-financial factors. The Company maintains a reserve for potentially uncollectible accounts receivable based on its assessment of the collectibility of accounts receivable.

 

Restructuring Reserves -

 

On October 10, 2001, the Company eliminated approximately 70 positions at corporate headquarters. In addition, approximately 30 positions in the restaurant construction and fabrication areas were eliminated by December 30, 2001. The purpose of the reduction was to streamline functions and reduce redundancy among its business segments. As a result of the elimination of the positions and the outsourcing of certain functions, the Company reported a pre-tax restructuring charge of approximately $2.5 million for severance, rent and unusable construction supplies in the year ended December 30, 2001.

 

In March 2000, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a restructuring plan that provided for the immediate closing of 81 restaurants at the end of March 2000 and the disposition of an additional 70 restaurants over the next 24 months. As a result of this plan, the Company reported a pre-tax restructuring charge of approximately $12.1 million for severance, rent, utilities and real estate taxes, demarking, lease termination costs and certain other costs associated with the closing of the locations, along with a pre-tax write-down of property and equipment for these locations of approximately $17.0 million in the year ended December 31, 2000. The Company reduced the restructuring reserve by $0.4 million and $1.9 million during the years ended December 29, 2002 and December 30, 2001, respectively, since the reserve exceeded estimated remaining payments.

 

As of September 28, 2003, the remaining restructuring reserve was $0.5 million. The restructuring reserve may be increased or decreased based upon remaining payments, which could vary materially from the estimates depending upon the timing of restaurant closings and other factors.

 

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Pension and Other Post-Retirement Benefits -

 

Certain of the Company’s employees are covered under a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan. The determination of the Company’s obligation and expense for pension and other post-retirement benefits is dependent upon the selection of certain assumptions used by actuaries in calculating such amounts. Those assumptions include, among other things, the discount rate, expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and rates of increase in compensation and health care costs. In accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, actual results that differ from the assumptions are accumulated and amortized over future periods and, therefore, generally affect the recognized expense and recorded obligation in such future periods. Significant differences in actual experience or significant changes in the assumptions may materially affect the future pension and other post-retirement obligations and expense.

 

Long-Lived Assets -

 

In accordance with SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” the Company reviews its 1988 Non-Friendly Marks, which were assigned to the Company by Hershey in September 2002, for impairment on a quarterly basis. The Company recognizes impairment has occurred when the carrying value of the 1988 Non-Friendly Marks exceeds the estimated future undiscounted cash flows of the trademarked products.

 

The Company reviews each restaurant property quarterly to determine which properties will be disposed of, if any. This determination is made based on poor operating results, deteriorating property values and other factors. In addition, the Company reviews all restaurants with negative cash flow for impairment on a quarterly basis. The Company recognizes an impairment has occurred when the carrying value of property reviewed exceeds its estimated fair value, which is estimated based on the Company’s experience selling similar properties and local market conditions, less costs to sell for properties to be disposed of.

 

Income Taxes -

 

The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” which requires recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements or tax returns. A valuation allowance is recorded for deferred tax assets whose realization is not likely. The Company records income taxes based on the effective rate expected for the year with any changes in the valuation allowance reflected in the period of change. As of September 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002, a valuation allowance of $10.2 million existed related to state NOL carryforwards due to restrictions on the usage of state NOL carryforwards and short carryforward periods for certain states. Taxable income by state for future periods is difficult to estimate. The amount and timing of any future taxable income may affect the usage of such carryforwards, which could result in a material change in the valuation allowance.

 

Stock-Based Compensation -

 

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation for employees under APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and elected the disclosure-only alternative under SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.”  No stock-based compensation cost is included in net income for the Company’s Stock Option Plan, as all options granted during periods presented had an exercise price equal to the market value of the stock on the date of grant. In accordance with SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure,” the Company will continue to disclose the required pro-forma information in the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

 

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Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

There has been no material change in the Company’s market risk exposure since the filing of the 2002 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

As of September 28, 2003, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures.  Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the CEO and CFO, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 28, 2003.

 

During the quarter ended September 28, 2003, there was no change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 6.  Exhibits and reports on Form 8-K

 

(a) Exhibits

 

The exhibit index is incorporated by reference herein.

 

(b) Reports on Form 8-K

 

Date Filed		Event Reported
September 2, 2003		Item 5 – Other Events
		Item 7 – Financial Statements and Exhibits

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

	Friendly Ice Cream Corporation
	By:	/s/PAUL V. HOAGLAND
		Name:  Paul V. Hoagland
		Title: Executive Vice President of Administration and Chief Financial Officer
	Date:	October 23, 2003

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

3.1	Restated Articles of Organization of Friendly Ice Cream Corporation (the “Company”)  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, Reg. No. 333-34633).
3.2	Amended and Restated By-laws of the Company (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(II) to the Registrant’s current report on Form 8-K filed September 2, 2003, File No. 0-3930).
4.1	Credit Agreement among the Company, Fleet Bank, N.A and certain other banks and financial institutions (“Credit Agreement”) dated as of December 17, 2001 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2001, File No. 0-3930).
4.1(a)	Consent, Limited Waiver and Amendment No. 1 to Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of February 15, 2002. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1(a) to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2002, File No. 0-3930).
4.1(b)	Limited Waiver and Amendment No. 2 to Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of December 27, 2002. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1(b) to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2002, File No. 0-3930).
4.2	Loan Agreement between the Company’s subsidiary, Friendly’s Realty I, LLC and GE Capital Franchise Finance Corporation dated as of December 17, 2001 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2001, File No. 0-3930).
4.3	Loan Agreement between the Company’s subsidiary, Friendly’s Realty II, LLC and GE Capital Franchise Finance Corporation dated as of December 17, 2001 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2001, File No. 0-3930).
4.4	Loan Agreement between the Company’s subsidiary, Friendly’s Realty III, LLC and GE Capital Franchise Finance Corporation dated as of December 17, 2001 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2001, File No. 0-3930).
4.5	Senior Note Indenture between Friendly Ice Cream Corporation, Friendly’s Restaurants Franchise, Inc. and The Bank of New York, as Trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 27, 1998, File No. 0-3930).
4.6	Rights Agreement between the Company and The Bank of New York, a Rights Agent (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, Reg. No. 333-34633).
10.1	The Company’s 2003 Incentive Plan (as amended on July 23, 2003).*
10.2	Agreement dated as of August 27, 2003 terminating the Aircraft Reimbursement Agreement between the Company and TRC Realty Co.
31.1	Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 signed by John. L. Cutter.
31.2	Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 signed by Paul V. Hoagland.
32.1	Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 signed by John L. Cutter.
32.2	Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 signed by Paul V. Hoagland.

 

* - Management Contract or Compensatory Plan or Arrangement

 

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