SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

_______________________

FORM 10-Q

_______________________

(Mark One)

For the quarterly period ended March 24, 2015

OR

 

For the transition period from                      to                     

Commission File Number 001-35611

 

Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

 

(817) 601-3421

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

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   ☒     No   ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes   ☒     No   ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act.    Yes   ☐     No   ☒

As of April 27, 2015, the latest practicable date, 23,603,465 shares of the registrant’s common stock, $0.001 par value per share, were issued and outstanding.

 

 

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Table of Contents:

 

 

 

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PART I

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Dollars in thousands, except share data)

 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income—Unaudited

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

 

 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity—Unaudited

(Dollars in thousands)

 

 

 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows—Unaudited

(Dollars in thousands)

 

 

 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—Unaudited

 

 

As of March 24, 2015, Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc. (the “Company”) owned and operated 46 restaurants under the concept names of Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House (“Del Frisco’s”), Sullivan’s Steakhouse (“Sullivan’s”), and Del Frisco’s Grille (“Grille”). Of the 46 restaurants the Company operated at the end of the period covered by this report, there were 11 Del Frisco’s restaurants, 19 Sullivan’s restaurants and 16 Grille restaurants in operation in 20 states and the District of Columbia. 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for interim financial information. Accordingly, they do not include all the information and disclosures required by GAAP for complete financial statements. Operating results for the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending December 29, 2015. In the opinion of management, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary for a fair presentation. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2014 filed with the SEC on February 27, 2015.

The Company operates on a 52- or 53-week fiscal year ending the last Tuesday in December. The fiscal quarters ended March 24, 2015 and March 25, 2014 each contained 12 weeks and are referred to herein as the first quarter of fiscal year 2015 and the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, respectively. Fiscal year 2015 will be a 52-week fiscal year as was fiscal year 2014.

Accounting Estimates

The preparation of the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or U.S. GAAP, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances at the time. Actual amounts may differ from those estimates.

There have been no material changes to the significant accounting policies from what was previously reported in our 2014 10-K.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, issued Accounting Standards Update, or ASU, 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers.  This ASU is a comprehensive new revenue recognition model, which requires a company to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount that reflects the consideration it expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. The ASU will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective. This update is currently scheduled to be effective in fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early application is not permitted. The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. We are evaluating the effect that ASU 2014-09 will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. We have not yet selected a transition method nor have we determined the effect of the standard on our ongoing financial reporting.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Interest – Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. This ASU requires debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying value of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by this ASU. The amendments in this ASU are effective retrospectively for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect the impact of adopting this ASU to be material to the Company’s financial statements and related disclosures.

 

 

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Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) data is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS data is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding, including all potentially issuable shares of common stock. Diluted EPS for the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 excludes options to purchase 768,227 shares of common stock, which were outstanding during the period, but were antidilutive. Diluted EPS for the 12 weeks ended March 25, 2014, excludes options to purchase 692,523 shares, which were outstanding during the period but were anti-dilutive.

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2012 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan

On July 16, 2012, the Company adopted the Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc. 2012 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan (the “2012 Plan”), which allows the Company to grant stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, deferred stock units and other equity-based awards to directors, officers, key employees and other key individuals performing services for the Company. The 2012 Plan provides for granting of options to purchase shares of common stock at an exercise price not less than the fair value of the stock on the date of grant. Options become exercisable at various periods ranging from one to four years from the date of grant. The 2012 Plan has 2,232,800 shares authorized for issuance under the plan. There were 1,423,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding options at March 24, 2015 and 695,925 shares available for future grants.

 

The following table details the Company’s total stock option compensation cost during the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 and March 25, 2014 as well as where the costs were expensed (in thousands):

 

 

 

 

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The following table summarizes stock option activity during the 12 week period ended March 24, 2015:

 

 

 

 

 

 

A summary of the status of non-vested stock options as of March 24, 2015 and changes during the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 is presented below:

 

 

 

As of March 24, 2015, there was $5.0 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options. This cost is expected to be recognized over a period of approximately 2.0 years. No stock-based awards were issued under the 2012 Plan during the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015. The following table details the values from and assumptions for the Black-Scholes option pricing model for stock options issued during the 12 weeks ended March 25, 2014:

 

 

 

The Black-Scholes option valuation model requires the input of subjective assumptions, including the expected life of the stock-based award. The assumptions above represent management’s best estimates, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management’s judgment. The expected term of options granted is based on a representative peer group with similar employee groups and expected behavior. The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury constant maturities rate in effect at the time of grant. The Company utilized a weighted rate for expected volatility based on a representative peer group with a similar expected term of options granted. Outstanding options granted under the 2012 Plan are subject to a four year vesting period and have a ten year maximum contractual term.

In addition, the Company is required to estimate the expected forfeiture rate and only recognizes expense for those stock options expected to vest. If the actual forfeiture rate is materially different from the Company’s estimate, the share-based compensation expense could be materially different.

 

 

 

On October 15, 2012 the Company entered into a credit facility that provides for a three-year unsecured revolving credit facility of up to $25.0 million. Borrowings under the credit facility bear interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 1.50%. The Company is required to pay a commitment fee equal to 0.25% per annum on the available but unused revolving credit facility. The credit facility is guaranteed by certain

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subsidiaries of the Company. The credit facility contains various financial covenants, including a maximum ratio of total indebtedness to EBITDA and minimum fixed charge coverage, both as defined in the credit agreement. The credit facility also contains covenants restricting certain corporate actions, including asset dispositions, acquisitions, the payment of dividends, the incurrence of indebtedness and providing financing or other transactions with affiliates. The Company was in compliance with all of the debt covenants as of March 24, 2015 and December 30, 2014.

As of March 24, 2015 and December 30, 2014, there were no outstanding borrowings on the Company’s revolving credit facility. Under the revolving loan commitment, the Company had approximately $25.0 million of borrowings available less  $861,000 in outstanding letters of credit commitments.

 

 

The effective income tax rate for the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 was 29.8% compared to an effective income tax rate of 32.7% for the 12 weeks ended March 25, 2014. The factors that cause the effective tax rates to vary from the federal statutory rate of 35% include the impact of FICA tip and other credits, partially offset by state income taxes and certain non-deductible expenses. The effective income tax rate for the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 also benefited from the settlement of uncertain tax positions within certain jurisdictions.   

 

 

 

Under GAAP, the Company is required to measure certain assets and liabilities at fair value, or to disclose the fair value of certain assets and liabilities recorded at cost. Pursuant to these fair value measurement and disclosure requirements, fair value is defined as the price that would be received upon sale of an asset or paid upon transfer of a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date and in the principal or most advantageous market for that asset or liability. The fair value is calculated based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, not on assumptions specific to the entity. In addition, the fair value of liabilities includes consideration of non-performance risk, including the Company’s own credit risk. Each fair value measurement is reported in one of the following three levels:

Level 1—valuation inputs are based upon unadjusted quoted prices for identical instruments traded in active markets.

Level 2—valuation inputs are based upon quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3—valuation inputs are unobservable and typically reflect management’s estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The fair values are therefore determined using model-based techniques that include option pricing models, discounted cash flow models, and similar techniques.

 

The following table presents our financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 24, 2015 and December 30, 2014, respectively (in thousands):

 

 

 

There were no transfers among levels within the fair-value hierarchy during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014.  The carrying value of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, receivables and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short term nature.

 

 

The Company operates the Del Frisco’s, Sullivan’s, and Grille brands as operating segments. The restaurant concepts operate solely in the U.S. within the full-service dining industry, providing similar products to similar customers. Sales from external customers are derived principally from food and beverage sales, and the Company does not rely on any major customers as a source of sales. The restaurant concepts also possess similar economic characteristics, resulting in similar long-term expected financial performance characteristics. However, as Del Frisco’s restaurants typically have higher revenues, driven by their larger physical presence and higher average check, the Del Frisco’s, Sullivan’s, and Grille operating segments have varying operating income and restaurant-level EBITDA margins due to the leveraging of higher revenues on certain fixed operating costs such as management labor, rent, utilities, and building maintenance.

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The following tables present information about reportable segments for the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 and March 25, 2014 and as of March 24, 2015 and March 25, 2014, respectively (in thousands):

 

 

 

In addition to using consolidated results in evaluating the Company’s performance and allocating its resources, the Company’s chief operating decision maker uses restaurant-level EBITDA, which is not a measure defined by GAAP. The Company defines restaurant-level EBITDA as operating income before pre-opening costs, general and administrative costs, secondary public offering costs and depreciation and amortization. Pre-opening costs are excluded because they vary in timing and magnitude and are not related to the health of ongoing operations. General and administrative costs are only included in the Company’s consolidated financial results as they are generally not specifically identifiable to individual operating segments as these costs relate to supporting all of the restaurant operations of the Company and the extension of the Company’s concepts into new markets. Public offering costs and depreciation and amortization are excluded because they are not ongoing controllable cash expenses and they are not related to the health of ongoing operations. Property and equipment is the only balance sheet measure used by the Company’s chief operating decision maker in allocating resources. See table below (in thousands) for a reconciliation of restaurant-level EBITDA to operating income from continuing operations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Company is subject to various claims, possible legal actions, and other matters arising out of the normal course of business. While it is not possible to predict the outcome of these issues, management is of the opinion that adequate provision for potential losses has been made in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements and that the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Prior to the acquisition of Lone Star Steakhouse & Saloon, Inc. by Lone Star Fund, the Company’s predecessor guaranteed certain lease payments of certain non-Company restaurants in connection with the leasing of real estate for restaurant locations. As of March 24, 2015 and December 30, 2014, the Company was responsible as guarantor for five of these leases of its former affiliate. The leases expire at various times through 2016. These guarantees will require payment by the Company only in an event of default by the former affiliate where it is unable to make the required lease payments. Management believes that the likelihood is remote that material payments will be required under these guarantees. At March 24, 2015 and December 30, 2014 the maximum potential amount of future lease payments the Company could be required to make as a result of the guarantees was approximately $0.8 million and  $0.9 million, respectively.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company received notification that its former affiliate ceased payments on two of the five aforementioned leases. The two leases, for which payment had not been made, are non-operating land leases, while the other three leases

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guaranteed by the Company are operating properties. As a result of this development, the Company has determined it is probable a liability exists in regards to these two non-operating land leases. The Company’s reasonable estimate of this liability is a range between $85 thousand and $304 thousand, with no amount within that range more probable than any other amount. Accordingly, $85 thousand was recorded to Other expense during the quarter.  

At March 24, 2015 and December 30, 2014, the Company had outstanding letters of credit of $1,076,000,  of which $861,000 were drawn on the Company’s credit facility (see Note 4,  Long-Term Debt ) and $215,000 were collateralized by restricted cash. The letters of credit typically act as guarantee of payment to certain third parties in accordance with specified terms and conditions.

 

 

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Cautionary Statement

Certain statements made or incorporated by reference in this report and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in our press releases and in statements made by or with the approval of authorized personnel constitute forward looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, and are subject to the safe harbor created thereby. Forward looking statements reflect intent, belief, current expectations, estimates or projections about, among other things, our industry, management’s beliefs, and future events and financial trends affecting us. Words such as “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” “may,” “will” and variations of these words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward looking statements. Although we believe the expectations reflected in any forward looking statements are reasonable, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, our actual results could differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward looking statements as a result of various factors. These differences can arise as a result of the risks described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2014, filed February 27, 2015, or the 2014 10-K, as well as other factors that may affect our business, results of operations, or financial condition. Forward looking statements in this report speak only as of the date hereof, and forward looking statements in documents incorporated by reference speak only as of the date of those documents. Unless otherwise required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward looking statements, whether as a result of new information,  future events or otherwise. In light of these risks and uncertainties, we cannot assure you that the forward looking statements contained in this report will, in fact, transpire.

Overview

Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group develops, owns and operates three contemporary, high-end, complementary restaurants: Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House, or Del Frisco’s, Sullivan’s Steakhouse, or Sullivan’s, and Del Frisco’s Grille, or the Grille. We currently operate 46 restaurants in 20 states and the District of Columbia. Of the 46 restaurants we operated as of the end of the period covered by this report, there were 11 Del Frisco’s restaurants, 19 Sullivan’s restaurants and 16 Grille restaurants.

Unless the context otherwise indicates, all references to “we,” “our,” “us,” or the “Company” refer to Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

Our Growth Strategies and Outlook. Our growth model is comprised of the following three primary drivers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

We believe there are opportunities to open six to eight restaurants annually, generally composed of one Del Frisco’s and five to seven Sullivan’s and/or Grilles, with new openings of our Grille concept likely serving as the primary driver of new unit growth in the near term.

 

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Performance Indicators. We use the following key metrics in evaluating the performance of our restaurants:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our business is subject to seasonal fluctuations. Historically, the percentage of our annual revenues earned during the first and fourth fiscal quarters has been higher due, in part, to increased gift card redemptions and increased private dining during the year-end holiday season, respectively. In addition, our first, second and third quarters each contain 12 operating weeks with the fourth quarter containing 16 or 17 operating weeks. As many of our operating expenses have a fixed component, our operating income and operating income margin have historically varied significantly from quarter to quarter. Accordingly, results for any one quarter are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for any other quarter or for any year.

 

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Results of Operations

The following table shows our operating results (in thousands), as well as our operating results as a percentage of revenues, for the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 and March 25, 2014.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Fiscal Quarter Ended March 24, 2015 (12 weeks) Compared to the Fiscal Quarter Ended March 25, 2014 (12 weeks)

The following tables show our operating results (in thousands) by segment, as well as our operating results as a percentage of revenues, for the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 and March 25, 2014.

 

 

 

Revenues. Consolidated revenues increased $8.5 million, or 12.7%, to $75.1 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from $66.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This increase was primarily driven by $8.0 million in incremental revenue from an additional 72 operating weeks provided by six new restaurants opened subsequent to the first quarter of fiscal 2014 and increased revenue at our comparable restaurants. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in revenue related to non-comparable restaurant sales. Comparable restaurant sales increased 2.2% for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 driven by a 4.1% increase in average check, partially offset by a 1.9% decrease in customer counts. During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, revenues were also negatively impacted by 53 lost restaurant operating days resulting from severe weather as compared to 32 lost restaurant operating days in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.

Del Frisco’s revenues increased $3.4 million, or 10.6%, to $36.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from $32.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. Comparable restaurant sales increased 2.3% for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 comprised of a 1.9% increase in average check as well as a 0.4% increase in customer counts. The increase in revenues was also driven by $2.7 million in incremental revenue from an additional 12

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operating weeks provided by one new restaurant opened subsequent to the first quarter of fiscal 2014. During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, revenues were also negatively impacted by 14 lost restaurant operating days resulting from severe weather as compared to 6 lost restaurant operating days in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.

Sullivan’s revenues increased $0.8 million, or 4.3%, to $19.8 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from $19.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. Comparable restaurant sales increased 4.8% for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 driven by  an 8.1% increase in average check, partially offset by a 3.3% decrease in customer counts. The increase in average check and offsetting reduced customer counts were impacted by a shift in mix associated with the removal of certain bar entrees. During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, revenues were also negatively impacted by 24 lost restaurant operating days resulting from severe weather as compared to 21 lost restaurant operating days in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.

Grille revenues increased $4.2 million, or 28.0%, to $19.2 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from $15.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This increase was primarily driven by incremental revenue from an additional 60 operating weeks provided by five new restaurants opened subsequent to the first quarter of fiscal 2014, partially offset by a comparable restaurant sales decrease of 3.5% in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 comprised of a 3.5% decrease in customer counts as well as a decrease in our non-comparable restaurant sales. During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, revenues were also negatively impacted by 15 lost restaurant operating days resulting from severe weather as compared to 5 lost restaurant operating days in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. 

Cost of Sales. Consolidated cost of sales increased $1.6 million, or 8.0%, to $21.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from $20.1 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This increase was primarily due to an additional 72 operating weeks provided by the opening of six restaurants subsequent to the first quarter of fiscal 2014. As a percentage of consolidated revenues, consolidated cost of sales decreased to 28.8% during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 30.1% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  

As a percentage of revenues, Del Frisco’s cost of sales decreased to 29.8% during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 30.9% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  This decrease in cost of sales, as a percentage of revenues, was primarily due to lower beef and wine costs partially offset by higher seafood costs.

As a percentage of revenues, Sullivan’s  cost of sales decreased to 29.4% during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 30.0% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  This decrease in cost of sales, as a percentage of revenues, was primarily due to lower beef and seafood costs, partially offset by higher liquor and wine costs.

As a percentage of revenues, Grille cost of sales decreased to 26.5% during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 28.4% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  This decrease in cost of sales, as a percentage of revenues, was primarily due to decreased seafood and wine costs.

Restaurant Operating Expenses. Consolidated restaurant operating expenses increased $4.4 million, or 14.3%, to $34.9 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from $30.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This increase was primarily due to an additional 72 operating weeks in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2014 from the opening of six restaurants subsequent to the first quarter of fiscal 2014. As a percentage of consolidated revenues, consolidated restaurant operating expenses increased to 46.5% in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 45.9% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.

 

As a percentage of revenues, Del Frisco’s restaurant operating expenses increased to 40.2% during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 39.3% during the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  This increase in restaurant operating expenses, as a percentage of revenues, was primarily due to higher labor and benefits costs and higher occupancy costs, partially offset by lower restaurant operating expenses related to the leveraging effect of certain fixed and semi-variable costs in relation to increased revenue.

As a percentage of revenues, Sullivan’s restaurant operating expenses decreased to 48.9% during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 50.9% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This decrease in restaurant operating expenses, as a percentage of revenues, was due to lower other restaurant operating expenses related to strategic cost saving initiatives.  

As a percentage of revenues, Grille restaurant operating expenses increased to 55.8% during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 53.9% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This increase in restaurant operating expenses, as a percentage of revenues, was primarily due to higher occupancy costs.

Marketing and Advertising Costs. Consolidated marketing and advertising costs increased $0.2 million, or 12.3%, to $1.4 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from $1.2 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. As a percentage of consolidated revenues, consolidated marketing and advertising costs increased to 1.9% in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 1.8% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.

As a percentage of revenues, Del Frisco’s marketing and advertising costs decreased to 1.3% during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 1.5% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  Marketing and advertising costs, as a percentage of revenues, decreased primarily due to lower print production and the leveraging effect of certain costs in relation to increased revenue.

As a percentage of revenues, Sullivan’s marketing and advertising costs decreased to 2.2% during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from 2.5%  in the first quarter of fiscal 2014, which was the result of lower print production and broadcast advertising as well as the leveraging effect of certain costs in relation to increased revenue.

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As a percentage of revenues, Grille marketing and advertising costs increased to 2.5% during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to 1.7% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  The increase in marketing and advertising costs, as a percentage of revenues, was primarily due to higher broadcast and outdoor advertising.

Pre-opening Costs. Pre-opening costs decreased by $0.1 million to $0.3 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from $0.4 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 due primarily to lower non-cash preopening rent related to a new Del Frisco’s that opened in 2014. Pre-opening costs include non-cash straight line rent, which is incurred during construction and can precede a restaurant opening by four to six months.

General and Administrative Costs. General and administrative costs increased $0.8 million, or 16.9%, to $5.5 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from $4.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This increase was primarily related to additional costs related to growth in the number of corporate and regional management-level personnel to support recent and anticipated growth. As a percentage of revenues, general and administrative costs increased to 7.3% in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to 7.0% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. General and administrative costs are expected to continue to increase as a result of costs related to our anticipated growth, including further investments in our infrastructure. As we are able to leverage these investments made in our people and systems, we expect these expenses to decrease as a percentage of total revenues over time.

Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation  and amortization increased $0.6 million, or 21.0%, to $3.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from $3.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  The increase in depreciation and amortization expense primarily resulted from new assets placed in service during 2014  as well as from existing restaurants that were remodeled during 2014 and the first quarter of fiscal 2015.

Income Tax Expense. The effective income tax rate for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 was 29.8% compared to an effective income tax rate of 32.7%  for the first quarter of fiscal 2014. The factors that cause the effective tax rates to vary from the federal statutory rate of 35% include the impact of FICA tip and other credits, partially offset by state income taxes and certain non-deductible expenses. The effective income tax rate for the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 also benefited from the settlement of uncertain tax positions within certain jurisdictions.  

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our principal liquidity requirements are our lease obligations and capital expenditure needs. We expect to finance our operations for at least the next several years, including costs of opening currently planned new restaurants, through cash provided by operations and borrowings available under our credit facility. However, we cannot be sure that these sources will be sufficient to finance our operations, and we may seek additional financing in the future. As of March 24, 2015, we had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $6.8 million.

Our operations have not required significant working capital and, like many restaurant companies, we may at times have negative working capital. Revenues are received primarily in cash or by credit card, and restaurant operations do not require significant receivables or inventories, other than our wine inventory. In addition, we receive trade credit for the purchase of food, beverages and supplies, thereby reducing the need for incremental working capital to support growth.

The following table presents a summary of our cash flows for the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 and March 25, 2014 (in thousands):

 

 

 

Operating Activities. Net cash flows provided by operating activities increased $2.1 million during the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 as compared to the 12 weeks ended March 25, 2014, primarily due to a $0.9 million increase in net income,  a $0.9 million increase related to the timing of payables, a $0.6 million increase in depreciation and amortization,  and a $0.5 million decrease in inventories, partially offset by a $0.6 million increase in other assets.  

Investing Activities. Net cash used in investing activities for the 12 weeks ended March 24, 2015 was 7.2 million, consisting primarily of purchases of property and equipment. These purchases primarily related to construction of two Grille restaurants and one Del Frisco’s in progress at the end of the period and remodel activity of existing restaurants. Net cash used in investing activities for the 12 weeks ended March 25, 2014 was $4.6 million, consisting primarily of purchases of property and equipment. These purchases primarily related to construction of one Grille restaurant and one Del Frisco’s in progress at the end of the period and remodel activity of existing restaurants.

Financing Activities.  Net cash provided by financing activities for the 12 weeks ended March 25, 2014 was $48 thousand, which was comprised entirely of proceeds from the exercise of stock options.

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Capital Expenditures. We typically target an average cash investment of approximately $7.0 million to $9.0 million per restaurant for a Del Frisco’s restaurant and $3.0 million to $4.5 million for a Sullivan’s or a Grille, in each case net of landlord contributions and equipment financing and including pre-opening costs. In addition, we are currently “refreshing” a number of our Sullivan’s and Del Frisco’s locations. These capital expenditures will primarily be funded by cash flows from operations and, if necessary, by the use of our credit facility, depending upon the timing of expenditures.

Credit Facility. On October 15, 2012, we entered into a credit facility that provides for a three-year unsecured revolving credit facility of up to $25.0 million. Borrowings under the credit facility bear interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 1.50%. We are required to pay a commitment fee equal to 0.25% per annum on the available but unused revolving loan facility. The credit facility is guaranteed by certain of our subsidiaries. The credit facility contains various financial covenants, including a maximum ratio of total indebtedness to EBITDA (as defined in the credit facility), and minimum fixed charge coverage. Specifically, we are required to have a leverage ratio of less than 1.00 and a fixed charge coverage ratio of greater than 2.00. As of March 24, 2015, we were in compliance with each of these tests. The credit facility also contains covenants restricting certain corporate actions, including asset dispositions, acquisitions, the payment of dividends, the incurrence of indebtedness and providing financing or other transactions with affiliates. As of March 24, 2015 there were no outstanding borrowings under this facility.

We believe that net cash provided by operating activities and available borrowings under our credit facility will be sufficient to fund currently anticipated working capital, planned capital expenditures and debt service requirements for the next 24 months. We regularly review acquisitions and other strategic opportunities, which may require additional debt or equity financing.

Common Stock Repurchase Program. On October 14, 2014, our Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase program authorizing the Company to repurchase up to $25 million of its common stock over the next three years. Under this program, we may from time to time purchase our outstanding common stock in the open market at management’s discretion, subject to share price, market conditions and other factors. The common stock repurchase program does not obligate us to repurchase any dollar amount or number of shares. As of March 24, 2015, we had not repurchased any shares of our common stock under this program.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Prior to the acquisition of Lone Star Steakhouse & Saloon, Inc. by Lone Star Fund, our predecessor guaranteed lease payments of certain non-Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group restaurants in connection with the leasing of real estate for these locations. As of March 24, 2015, we continue to be a guarantor for five of these leases. The leases expire at various times through 2016. These guarantees would require payment by us only in an event of default by the non-Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group tenant where it failed to make the required lease payments or perform other obligations under a lease. We believe that the likelihood is remote that material payments will be required under these guarantees. At March 24, 2015, the maximum potential amount of future lease payments we could be required to make as a result of the guarantees was $0.8 million.

 

During the first quarter of 2015, the Company received notification that its former affiliate ceased payments on two of the five aforementioned leases. The two leases, for which payment had not been made, are non-operating land leases, while the other three leases guaranteed by the Company are operating properties. As a result of this development, the Company has determined it is probable a liability exists in regards to these two non-operating land leases. The Company’s reasonable estimate of this liability is a range between $85 thousand and $304 thousand, with no amount within that range more probable than any other amount. Accordingly, $85 thousand was recorded to Other expense during the quarter.

 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Accounting Estimates

The preparation of the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or U.S. GAAP, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances at the time. Actual amounts may differ from those estimates.

There have been no material changes to the significant accounting policies from what was previously reported in our 2014 10-K.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

The effects of new accounting pronouncements are discussed in Note 1,  Business and Basis of Presentation in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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Interest Rate Risk

We are exposed to market risk from fluctuations in interest rates. For fixed rate debt, interest rate changes affect the fair market value of the debt but do not impact earnings or cash flows. Conversely for variable rate debt, including borrowings available under our credit facility, interest rate changes generally do not affect the fair market value of the debt, but do impact future earnings and cash flows, assuming other factors are held constant. As of March 24, 2015, there were no outstanding borrowings on the Company’s revolving credit facility. Holding other variables constant, a hypothetical immediate one percentage point change in interest rates would be expected to have an impact on pre-tax earnings and cash flows of approximately $10,000 per $1.0 million of outstanding debt.

Commodity Price Risk

We are exposed to market price fluctuations in beef, seafood, produce and other food product prices. Given the historical volatility of beef, seafood, produce and other food product prices, these fluctuations can materially impact our food and beverage costs. While we have taken steps to qualify multiple suppliers who meet our standards as suppliers for our restaurants and enter into agreements with suppliers for some of the commodities used in our restaurant operations, there can be no assurance that future supplies and costs for such commodities will not fluctuate due to weather and other market conditions outside of our control. We are currently unable to contract for some of our commodities, such as fresh seafood and certain produce, for periods longer than one week. Consequently, such commodities can be subject to unforeseen supply and cost fluctuations. Dairy costs can also fluctuate due to government regulation. Because we typically set our menu prices in advance of our food product prices, our menu prices cannot immediately take into account changing costs of food items. To the extent that we are unable to pass the increased costs on to our customers through price increases, our results of operations would be adversely affected. We do not use financial instruments to hedge our risk to market price fluctuations in beef, seafood, produce and other food product prices at this time.

Inflation

Over the past five years, inflation has not significantly affected our operations. However, the impact of inflation on labor, food and occupancy costs could, in the future, significantly affect our operations. We pay many of our tipped employees hourly rates related to the applicable federal or state minimum wage. Food costs as a percentage of revenues have been somewhat stable due to procurement efficiencies and menu price adjustments, although no assurance can be made that our procurement will continue to be efficient or that we will be able to raise menu prices in the future. Costs for construction, taxes, repairs, maintenance and insurance all impact our occupancy costs. We believe that our current strategy, which is to seek to maintain operating margins through a combination of menu price increases, cost controls, careful evaluation of property and equipment needs, and efficient purchasing practices, has been an effective tool for dealing with inflation. There can be no assurance, however, that future inflationary or other cost pressure will be effectively offset by this strategy.

 

 

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.

The design of any system of control is based upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated objectives under all future events, no matter how remote, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may not deteriorate. Because of its inherent limitations, disclosure controls and procedures may not prevent or detect all misstatements. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving their control objectives.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act) that occurred during our most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II – Other Information

 

We are subject to various claims and legal actions, including class actions, arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time, including claims related to food quality, personal injury, contract matters, health, wage and employment and other issues. None of these types of litigation, most of which are covered by insurance, has had a material effect on us, and as of the date of this report, we are not a party to any material pending legal proceedings and are not aware of any claims that we believe could have a materially adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

 

There have been no material changes from our risk factors as previously reported in our 2014 10-K.

 

 

On October 14, 2014, our Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase program authorizing the Company to repurchase up to $25 million of its common stock over the next three years. Under this program, we may from time to time purchase our outstanding common stock in the open market at management’s discretion, subject to share price, market conditions and other factors. The common stock repurchase program does not obligate us to repurchase any dollar amount or number of shares. As of March 24, 2015, we had not repurchased any shares of our common stock under this program.

 

None.

 

Not applicable.

 

None.

 

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

 

 

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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.

Date: April 28, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

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