SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

xQUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
  
o¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended July 2,December 31, 2016

 

Commission file number 1-09453

 

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

New York 13-3156768
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
   
85 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10003
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:     (212) 206-8800     

 

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 (the “Exchange Act”) during the preceding 12 months (or for 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.

Yesx   No    No   o¨

 

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).

Yesx   No    No   o¨

 

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.

 

Large accelerated filero¨ Accelerated filero¨
   
Non-accelerated filero¨(Do not check if a smaller
reporting company)Smaller Reporting Companyx

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

YesYes   ¨o   Nox

 

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

 

Class Outstanding shares at August 11, 2016February 10, 2017
(Common stock, $.01 par value) 3,423,2203,423,528
 

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

On one or more occasions, we may make statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Qregarding our assumptions, projections, expectations, targets, intentions or beliefs about future events. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included or incorporated by reference herein relating to management’s current expectations of future financial performance, continued growth and changes in economic conditions or capital markets are 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.

 

Words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “predicts,” “projects,” “targets,” “will likely result,” “hopes,” “will continue” or similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed. We caution that while we make such statements in good faith and we believe such statements are based on reasonable assumptions, including without limitation, management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in records and other data available from third parties, we cannot assure you that our projections will be achieved. Factors that may cause such differences include: economic conditions generally and in each of the markets in which we are located, the amount of sales contributed by new and existing restaurants, labor costs for our personnel, fluctuations in the cost of food products, adverse weather conditions, changes in consumer preferences and the level of competition from existing or new competitors.

 

We have attempted to identify, in context, certain of the factors that we believe may cause actual future experience and results to differ materially from our current expectation regarding the relevant matter or subject area. In addition to the items specifically discussed above, our business, results of operations and financial position and your investment in our common stock are subject to the risks and uncertainties described in “Item 1A Risk Factors” in Part I of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 20151, 2016 (“Form 10-K”) as may be updated by the information contained under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part II of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

From time to time, oral or written forward-looking statements are also included in our reports on Forms 10-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q, 10-Q/A and 8-K, our Schedule 14A, our press releases and other materials released to the public. Although we believe that at the time made, the expectations reflected in all of these forward-looking statements are and will be reasonable; any or all of the forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. This may occur as a result of inaccurate assumptions or as a consequence of known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors discussed in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, certain of which are beyond our control, will be important in determining our future performance. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from those that might be anticipated from forward-looking statements. In light of these and other uncertainties, you should not regard the inclusion of a forward-looking statement in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or other public communications that we might make as a representation by us that our plans and objectives will be achieved, and you should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.

 

We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. However, your attention is directed to any further disclosures made on related subjects in our subsequent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms 10-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q, 10-Q/A and 8-K and Schedule 14A.

 

Unless the context requires otherwise, references to “we,” “us,” “our,” “ARKR” and the “Company” refer specifically to Ark Restaurants Corp., and its subsidiaries, partnerships, variable interest entities and predecessor entities.

- 2 -

Part I. Financial Information

Item 1. Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

 

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)

 

 July 2,
2016
 October 3,
2015
 
 (unaudited) (see Note 1)  December 31,
2016
 October 1,
2016
 
      (unaudited) (see Note 1) 
ASSETS                
CURRENT ASSETS:                
Cash and cash equivalents (includes $876 at July 2, 2016 and $604 at October 3, 2015 related to VIEs) $8,519  $9,735 
Accounts receivable (includes $432 at July 2, 2016 and $303 at October 3, 2015 related to VIEs)  3,332   3,221 
Cash and cash equivalents (includes $511 at December 31, 2016 and $889 at October 1, 2016 related to VIEs) $4,662  $7,239 
Accounts receivable (includes $476 at December 31, 2016 and $429 at October 1, 2016 related to VIEs)  3,732   3,750 
Employee receivables  482   485   428   453 
Inventories (includes $22 at July 2, 2016 and $24 at October 3, 2015 related to VIEs)  1,925   1,956 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (includes $228 at July 2, 2016 and $216 at October 3, 2015 related to VIEs)  2,821   2,365 
Inventories (includes $18 at December 31, 2016 and $23 at October 1, 2016 related to VIEs)  2,161   1,892 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (includes $226 at December 31, 2016 and $228 at October 1, 2016 related to VIEs)  2,242   2,662 
Total current assets  17,079   17,762   13,225   15,996 
FIXED ASSETS - Net (includes $26 at July 2, 2016 and $40 at October 3, 2015 related to VIEs)  29,995   27,804 
FIXED ASSETS - Net (includes $18 at December 31, 2016 and $22 at October 1, 2016 related to VIEs)  36,874   29,546 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Net  568   499   688   526 
GOODWILL  7,895   6,813   9,995   7,895 
TRADEMARKS  1,611   1,221   2,111   1,611 
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES  3,913   4,453   3,032   3,416 
INVESTMENT IN AND RECEIVABLE FROM NEW MEADOWLANDS RACETRACK  6,489   6,453   6,716   6,701 
OTHER ASSETS (includes $71 at July 2, 2016 and October 3, 2015 related to VIEs)  2,049   1,562 
OTHER ASSETS (includes $71 at December 31, 2016 and October 1, 2016 related to VIEs)  2,527   2,564 
TOTAL ASSETS $69,599  $66,567  $75,168  $68,255 
        
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY                
CURRENT LIABILITIES:                
Accounts payable - trade (includes $77 at July 2, 2016 and $81 at October 3, 2015 related to VIEs) $3,104  $3,207 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (includes $326 at July 2, 2016 and $131 at October 3, 2015 related to VIEs)  10,147   10,332 
Accounts payable - trade (includes $55 at December 31, 2016 and $114 at October 1, 2016 related to VIEs) $3,463  $2,876 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (includes $299 at December 31, 2016 and $238 at October 1, 2016 related to VIEs)  8,519   10,555 
Accrued income taxes  1,898   2,477   1,461   606 
Current portion of notes payable  2,571   1,617   4,216   2,617 
Total current liabilities  17,720   17,633   17,659   16,654 
OPERATING LEASE DEFERRED CREDIT (includes $75 at July 2, 2016 and $81 at October 3, 2015 related to VIEs)  3,606   3,796 
NOTES PAYABLE, LESS CURRENT PORTION  5,975   3,907 
OPERATING LEASE DEFERRED CREDIT (includes $67 at December 31, 2016 and $73 at October 1, 2016 related to VIEs)  3,524   3,576 
NOTES PAYABLE, LESS CURRENT PORTION, net of deferred financing costs  11,071   5,321 
TOTAL LIABILITIES  27,301   25,336   32,254   25,551 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES                
EQUITY:                
Common stock, par value $.01 per share - authorized, 10,000 shares; issued, 3,418 and 4,774 shares at July 2, 2016 and October 3, 2015; outstanding, 3,418 shares at July 2, 2016 and October 3, 2015  34   48 
Common stock, par value $.01 per share - authorized, 10,000 shares; issued, 3,423 shares at December 31, 2016 and October 1, 2016; outstanding, 3,423 shares at December 31, 2016 and October 1, 2016  34   34 
Additional paid-in capital  12,763   25,682   12,545   12,942 
Retained earnings  27,026   26,548   28,036   27,158 
  39,823   52,278 
Less treasury stock, at cost, of 1,356 shares at October 3, 2015     (13,220)
Total Ark Restaurants Corp. shareholders’ equity  39,823   39,058   40,615   40,134 
NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS  2,475   2,173   2,299   2,570 
TOTAL EQUITY  42,298   41,231   42,914   42,704 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY $69,599  $66,567  $75,168  $68,255 

 

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

- 3 -

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (Unaudited)

(InFOR THE 13 WEEKS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016 AND JANUARY 2, 2016

 (In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)

 

 13 Weeks Ended  39 Weeks Ended  13 Weeks Ended
 July 2,
2016
  June 27,
2015
  July 2,
2016
  June 27,
2015
  December 31,
2016
 January 2,
2016
              
REVENUES:                        
Food and beverage sales $40,935  $40,016  $110,503  $104,278  $37,953  $36,632 
Other revenue  298   359   1,111   1,004   439   359 
Total revenues  41,233   40,375   111,614   105,282   38,392   36,991 
                        
COSTS AND EXPENSES:                        
Food and beverage cost of sales  10,656   10,573   29,440   28,491   9,750   9,592 
Payroll expenses  12,895   12,019   38,100   34,158   12,956   13,192 
Occupancy expenses  3,309   4,351   11,891   12,367   4,732   4,545 
Other operating costs and expenses  4,999   4,858   14,485   13,473   4,866   4,563 
General and administrative expenses  2,956   2,769   8,996   8,200   3,300   3,328 
Depreciation and amortization  1,109   1,104   3,384   3,308   1,483   1,138 
Total costs and expenses  35,924   35,674   106,296   99,997   37,087   36,358 
RESTAURANT OPERATING INCOME  1,305   633 
Gain on sale of Rustic Inn, Jupiter  1,637   - 
OPERATING INCOME  5,309   4,701   5,318   5,285   2,942   633 
OTHER (INCOME) EXPENSE:                        
Interest expense  116   81   316   206   101   91 
Interest income  (12)  (12)  (36)  (35)  (96)  (12)
Other (income) expense, net  (217)  (42)  (439)  (164)  (28)  (61)
Total other (income) expense, net  (113)  27   (159)  7   (23)  18 
INCOME BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES  5,422   4,674   5,477   5,278   2,965   615 
Provision for income taxes  1,362   1,051   1,398   1,219   880   139 
CONSOLIDATED NET INCOME  4,060   3,623   4,079   4,059   2,085   476 
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests  (693)  (382)  (1,036)  (678)  (351)  (155)
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. $3,367  $3,241  $3,043  $3,381  $1,734  $321 
                        
NET INCOME PER ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. COMMON SHARE:                        
Basic $0.99  $0.95  $0.89  $1.00  $0.51  $0.09 
Diluted $0.96  $0.92  $0.87  $0.97  $0.49  $0.09 
                        
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING:                        
Basic  3,418   3,403   3,418   3,388   3,423   3,418 
Diluted  3,494   3,517   3,504   3,500   3,507   3,517 

 

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

- 4 -

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (Unaudited)

FOR THE 3913 WEEKS ENDED JULYDECEMBER 31, 2016 AND JANUARY 2, 2016 AND JUNE 27, 2015

(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)

 

            Total Ark       Common Stock Additional
Paid-In
 Retained  Total Ark
Restaurants
Corp.
Shareholders’
 Non-
controlling
 Total
            Restaurants       Shares Amount Capital Earnings Treasury Stock Equity Interests Equity
      Additional       Corp. Non-    
 Common Stock  Paid-In Retained   Shareholders’ controlling Total 
 Shares Amount Capital Earnings Treasury Stock Equity Interests Equity 
                 
BALANCE - September 27, 2014  4,733  $47  $25,167  $24,554  $(13,220) $36,548  $2,344  $38,892 
                                
Net income           3,381      3,381   678   4,059 
Exercise of stock options  28   1   355         356      356 
Tax benefit on exercise of stock options        94         94      94 
Stock-based compensation        313         313      313 
Distributions to non-controlling interests                    (826)  (826)
Accrued and paid dividends - $0.75 per share           (2,543)     (2,543)     (2,543)
                                
BALANCE - June 27, 2015  4,761  $48  $25,929  $25,392  $(13,220) $38,149  $2,196  $40,345 
                                                         
BALANCE - October 3, 2015  4,774  $48  $25,682  $26,548  $(13,220) $39,058  $2,173  $41,231   4,774  $48  $25,682  $21,479  $(13,220) $33,989  $1,326  $35,315 
                                                         
Net income           3,043      3,043   1,036   4,079   -   -   -   321   -   321   155   476 
Exercise of stock options        1         1      1   -   -   1   -   -   1   -   1 
Stock-based compensation        286         286      286   -   -   104   -   -   104   -   104 
Retirement of treasury shares  (1,356)  (14)  (13,206)     13,220          
Distributions to non-controlling interests                    (734)  (734)  -   -   -   -   -   -   (396)  (396)
Dividends paid - $0.75 per share           (2,565)     (2,565)     (2,565)
Accrued and paid dividends - $0.25 per share  -   -   -   (855)  -   (855)  -   (855)
                                                         
BALANCE - July 2, 2016  3,418  $34  $12,763  $27,026  $  $39,823  $2,475  $42,298 
BALANCE - January 2, 2016  4,774  $48  $25,787  $20,945  $(13,220) $33,560  $1,085  $34,645 
                         
BALANCE - October 1, 2016  3423  $34  $12,942  $27,158  $-  $40,134  $2,570  $42,704 
                         
Net income  -   -   -   1,734   -   1,734   351   2,085 
Change in excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation  -   -   (397)  -   -   (397)  -   (397)
Distributions to non-controlling interests  -   -   -   -   -   -   (622)  (622)
Dividends paid - $0.25 per share  -   -   -   (856)  -   (856)  -   (856)
                         
BALANCE - December 31, 2016  3,423  $34  $12,545  $28,036  $-  $40,615  $2,299  $42,914 

 

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

- 5 -

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)

FOR THE 13 WEEKS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016 AND JANUARY 2, 2016

(In Thousands)

 

 39 Weeks Ended  13 Weeks Ended
 July 2,
2016
 June 27,
2015
  December 31,
2016
 January 2,
2016
         
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                
Consolidated net income $4,079  $4,059  $2,085  $476 
Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash provided by operating activities:        
Loss on closure of restaurants  16    
Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:        
Loss on closure of restaurant  75   16 
Gain on sale of Rustic Inn, Jupiter  (1,637)  - 
Loss on disposal of assets  283   - 
Deferred income taxes  540   443   (13)  5 
Stock-based compensation  286   313   -   104 
Depreciation and amortization  3,384   3,308   1,125   1,138 
Amortization of deferred financing costs  32      11   9 
Operating lease deferred credit  (190)  (318)  (52)  (118)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                
Accounts receivable  (111)  (675)  18   (884)
Inventories  98   (64)  24   22 
Prepaid, refundable and accrued income taxes  (594)  (234)  855   (1,313)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets  (350)  (291)  470   109 
Other assets  (373)  (169)  29   249 
Accounts payable - trade  (103)  34   587   (137)
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities  (426)  127   (2,036)  (637)
Net cash provided by operating activities  6,288   6,533 
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities  1,824   (961)
                
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                
Purchases of fixed assets  (1,482)  (2,622)  (1,716)  (204)
Loans and advances made to employees  (161)  (110)  (20)  (71)
Payments received on employee receivables  164   134   45   50 
Payments received on note receivable     253 
Purchase of member interest in Meadowlands Newmark LLC     (111)
Proceeds from the sale of the Rustic Inn, Jupiter  2,474   - 
Purchase of Oyster House  (3,043)  - 
Purchase of Shuckers  (717)     -   (717)
Net cash used in investing activities  (2,196)  (2,456)  (2,260)  (942)
                
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                
Principal payments on notes payable  (1,879)  (1,390)  (663)  (571)
Payment of debt financing costs  (131)     -   (131)
Dividends paid  (2,565)  (3,387)  (856)  (855)
Proceeds from issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options  1   356   -   1 
Excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation     94 
Distributions to non-controlling interests  (734)  (826)  (622)  (396)
Net cash used in financing activities  (5,308)  (5,153)  (2,141)  (1,952)
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS  (1,216)  (1,076)  (2,577)  (3,855)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, Beginning of period  9,735   8,662   7,239   9,735 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, End of period $8,519  $7,586  $4,662  $5,880 
                
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:                
Cash paid during the period for:                
Interest $316  $183  $101  $82 
Income taxes $1,486  $917  $37  $1,447 
Non-cash financing activities:                
Note payable in connection with the purchase of Shuckers $5,000  $  $-  $5,000 
Retirement of 1,356 treasury shares $13,220  $ 
Note payable in connection with the purchase of Oyster House $8,000  $- 
Changes in excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation $(397) $- 

 

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

- 6 -

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

July 2, 2016

(Unaudited)                                               

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)

 

1. CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The consolidated condensed balance sheet as of October 3, 2015,1, 2016, which has been derived from audited financial statements included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 1, 2016 (“Form 10-K”), and the unaudited interim consolidated condensed financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted. All adjustments that, in the opinion of management are necessary for a fair presentation for the periods presented, have been reflected as required by Regulation S-X, Rule 10-01. Such adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature. These consolidated condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 3, 2015.10-K. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the operating results to be expected for the full year or any other interim period.

The Company identified an immaterial error in previously issued financial statements related to an overstatement of a rent liability in the amount of $261,000 ($191,000 net of tax or $0.06 per basic and $0.05 per diluted share for the 13 and 39-weeks ended July 2, 2016). The Company reviewed this accounting error utilizing SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 99, “Materiality” (“SAB 99”) and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108, “Effects of Prior Year Misstatements on Current Year Financial Statements” (“SAB 108”) and determined the impact of the error to be immaterial to any prior period’s presentation. The accompanying consolidated condensed financial statements as of July 2, 2016 reflect the correction of the aforementioned immaterial error.

 

PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION — The consolidated condensed interim financial statements include the accounts of Ark Restaurants Corp. and all of its wholly-owned subsidiaries, partnerships and other entities in which it has a controlling interest, collectively herein referred to as the “Company”. Also included in the consolidated condensed interim financial statements are certain variable interest entities (“VIEs”). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

RECLASSIFICATIONS — Certain reclassifications of prior period balances related to the income statement presentation of $822,000 of certain administrative fees related to catering revenue received have been reclassified from payroll expense to revenue to conform to the current period presentation.

 

SEASONALITY — The Company has substantial fixed costs that do not decline proportionally with sales. The first and second fiscal quarters, which include the winter months, usually reflect lower customer traffic than in the third and fourth fiscal quarters. In addition, sales in the third and fourth fiscal quarters can be adversely affected by inclement weather due to the significant amount of outdoor seating at the Company’s restaurants.

 

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS — The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate fair value due to the immediate or short-term maturity of these financial instruments. The fair values of notes receivable and payable are determined using current applicable rates for similar instruments as of the consolidated condensed balance sheet date and approximate the carrying value of such debt instruments.

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash—Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, deposits with banks and highly liquid investments generally with original maturities of three months or less. Outstanding checks in excess of account balances, typically vendor payments, payroll and other contractual obligations disbursed after the last day of a reporting period are reported as a current liability in the accompanying consolidated condensed balance sheets.

 

CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK— Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The Company reduces credit risk by placing its cash and cash equivalents with major financial institutions with high credit ratings. At times, such amounts may exceed Federally insured limits. Accounts receivable are primarily comprised of normal business receivables, such as credit card receivables, that are paid off in a short period of time and amounts due from the hotel operators where the Company has a location, and are recorded when the products or services have been delivered. The Company reviews the collectability of its receivables on an ongoing basis, and provides for an allowance when it considers the entity unable to meet its obligation. The concentration of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is generally limited due to the short payment terms extended by the Company and the number of customers comprising the Company’s customer base.

 

For the 13 and 39-week13-week periods ended JulyDecember 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016, and June 27, 2015, the Company did not make purchases from any one vendor that accounted for 10% or greater of total purchases for the respective period.

- 7 -

SEGMENT REPORTING — As of July 2,December 31, 2016, the Company owned and operated 2122 restaurants and bars, 19 fast food concepts and catering operations, exclusively in the United States, that have similar economic characteristics, nature of products and service, class of customers and distribution methods. The Company believes it meets the criteria for aggregating its operating segments into a single reporting segment in accordance with applicable accounting guidance.

- 7 -

RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS — In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2015-03,Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, which changes the presentation of debt issuance costs in a reporting entity’s financial statements. Under this new guidance, debt issuance costs will be presented as a direct deduction from the related debt liability instead of an asset. This accounting change is consistent with the current presentation under GAAP for debt discounts and it also converges the guidance under GAAP with that in the International Financial Reporting Standards. Debt issuance costs will reduce the proceeds from debt borrowings in the statement of cash flows instead of being presented as a separate caption in the financing section of that statement. Amortization of debt issuance costs will continue to be reported as interest expense in the statements of income. This accounting update does not affect the current accounting guidance for the recognition and measurement of debt issuance costs. This update is effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted for all entities for financial statements that have not been previously issued. This guidance has been adopted by the Company as of October 4, 2015 and did not have a material impact on its consolidated condensed financial statements.

In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16,Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments.The new guidance simplifies the accounting for adjustments made to provisional amounts recognized in a business combination and eliminates the requirement to retrospectively account for those adjustments. The amendments in this update are effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. The new guidance has been adopted by the Company as of October 4, 2015 and did not have a material impact on our consolidated condensed financial statements.

In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17,Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. The new guidance requires that all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. The guidance is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The new guidance has been adopted on a prospective basis by the Company for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2015.

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS NOT YET ADOPTED — In May 2014, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance that provides a comprehensive new revenue recognition model that 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. Additionally, this guidance expands related disclosure requirements. The pronouncement is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early application is not permitted. This update permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The Company is evaluating the impact of the adoption of this guidance on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows as well as the expected adoption method.

In June 2014, the FASB issued guidance which clarifies the recognition of stock-based compensation over the required service period, if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2015 and should be applied prospectively. The adoption of this guidance isdid not expected to have a significantany impact on the Company’s consolidated condensed financial condition or results of operations.

In August 2014, the FASB issued guidance that requires management to evaluate, at each annual and interim reporting period, the company’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year of the date the financial statements are issued and provide related disclosures. This accounting guidance is effective for the Company on a prospective basis beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2017 and is not expected to have a material effect on the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

 

In January 2015, the FASB issued guidance simplifying the income statement presentation by eliminating the concept of extraordinary items. Extraordinary items are events and transactions that are distinguished by their unusual nature and by the infrequency of their occurrence. Eliminating the extraordinary classification simplifies income statement presentation by altogether removing the concept of extraordinary items from consideration. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods, including interim periods within those reporting periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. EarlyThe adoption is permitted provided that the guidance is applied from the beginning of the annual reporting period. The Company does not believe this guidance willdid not have a materialany impact on itsthe Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

 

In February 2015, the FASB amended the consolidation standards for reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. Under the new guidance, all legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. Specifically, the guidance (i) modifies the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities (VIEs) or voting interest entities; (ii) eliminates the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership; (iii) affects the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with VIEs, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships; and (iv) provides a scope exception from consolidation guidance for reporting entities with interests in legal entities that are required to comply with or operate in

- 8 -

accordance with requirements that are similar to those in Rule 2a-7 of the Investment Company Act for registered money market funds. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The adoption of this guidance did not have any impact on the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS NOT YET ADOPTED — In January 2017, the FASB issued guidance clarifying the definition of a business. The update provides that when substantially all the fair value of the assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, the set is not a business. The new rules will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact adoption of this guidance on its Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

 

In July 2015,January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-11,Inventory (Topic 330): Simplifyingguidance simplifying the Measurement of Inventory.test for goodwill impairment. The guidance requiresupdate simplifies how an entity is required to measure inventory attest goodwill for impairment by eliminating Step 2 from the lowergoodwill impairment test. Step 2 measures a goodwill impairment loss by comparing the implied fair value of cost or net realizable value, which isa reporting unit’s goodwill with the estimated selling pricescarrying amount. The new rules will be effective for the Company in the ordinary coursefirst quarter of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation, rather than the lower of cost or market in the previous guidance. This amendment applies to inventory that is measured using first-in, first-out (FIFO). This amendment is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those years. A reporting entity should apply the amendments prospectively with earlier application permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period.2021. The Company does not expectis currently evaluating the potential impact adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

 

In January 2016, FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01,Financial Instruments-Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.The guidance will require equity investments in unconsolidated entities (other than those accounted for using the equity method of accounting) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. The amendments in this update will also simplify the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values by requiring a qualitative assessment to identify impairment, eliminate the requirement for public business entities to disclose the method and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value that is required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet and require these entities to use the exit price notion when measuring fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes. This guidance also changes the presentation and disclosure requirements for financial instruments as well as clarifying the guidance related to valuation allowance assessments when recognizing deferred tax assets resulting from unrealized losses on available-for-sale debt securities. The amendments in this guidance are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted for financial statements of fiscal years and interim periods that have not been issued. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact of this ASU on its consolidated condensed financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02,Leases. This ASU is intended to improve the reporting of leasing transactions to provide users of financial statements with more decision-useful information. This ASU will require organizations that lease assets to recognize on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by those leases. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact of this ASU on its consolidated condensed financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-08,Revenue from Contracts with Customers – Principal versus Agent Considerations. This ASU is intended to clarify revenue recognition accounting when a third party is involved in providing goods or services to a customer. The amendments in this update are effective for financial statements issued for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those annual periods, and early application is permitted, but no earlier than fiscal years beginning after December 16, 2016. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this ASU on its consolidated condensed financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09,Compensation – Stock Compensation – Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. This ASU is intended to simplify the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities and classification on the statement of cash flows. The amendments in this update are effective for financial statements issued for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those annual periods, and early application is permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this ASU on its consolidated condensed financial statements.

In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-10,Revenue from Contracts with Customers – Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing. This ASU is intended to clarify identifying performance obligations and licensing implementation guidance. The amendments in this update are effective for financial statements issued for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and early application is permitted, but no earlier than fiscal years beginning after December 16, 2016. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this ASU on its consolidated condensed financial statements.

2. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES

2.VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES

 

The Company consolidates any variable interest entities in which it holds a variable interest and is the primary beneficiary. Generally, a variable interest entity, or VIE, is an entity with one or more of the following characteristics: (a) the total equity investment at risk is not sufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support; (b) as a group the holders of the equity investment at risk lack (i) the ability to make decisions about an entity’s activities through voting or similar rights, (ii) the obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity, or (iii) the right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity; or (c) the equity investors have voting rights that are not proportional to their economic interests and substantially all of the entity’s activities either involve, or are conducted on behalf of, an investor that has disproportionately

- 9 -

few voting rights. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is generally the entity that has (a) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance, and (b) the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIE.

- 8 -

The Company has determined that it is the primary beneficiary of three VIEs and, accordingly, consolidates the financial results of these entities. Following are the required disclosures associated with the Company’s consolidated VIEs:

 

 July 2,
2016
  October 3,
2015
  December 31,
2016
 October 1,
2016
 
 (in thousands)  (in thousands) 
          
Cash and cash equivalents $876  $604  $511  $889 
Accounts receivable  432   303   476   429 
Inventories  22   24   18   23 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets  228   216   226   228 
Due from Ark Restaurants Corp. and affiliates (1)  24   103   38   - 
Fixed assets - net  26   40   18   22 
Other assets  71   71   71   71 
Total assets $1,679  $1,361  $1,358  $1,662 
                
Accounts payable - trade $77  $81  $55  $114 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities  326   131   299   238 
Due to Ark Restaurants Corp. and affiliates (1)  -   173 
Operating lease deferred credit  75   81   67   73 
Total liabilities  478   293   421   598 
Equity of variable interest entities  1,201   1,068   937   1,064 
Total liabilities and equity $1,679  $1,361  $1,358  $1,662 

 

(1)Amounts Due from Ark Restaurants Corp. and affiliates are eliminated upon consolidation.

 

The liabilities recognized as a result of consolidating these VIEs do not represent additional claims on the Company’s general assets; rather, they represent claims against the specific assets of the consolidated VIEs. Conversely, assets recognized as a result of consolidating these VIEs do not represent additional assets that could be used to satisfy claims against the Company’s general assets.

 

3. RECENT RESTAURANT EXPANSION

3.RECENT RESTAURANT EXPANSION

 

On October 22, 2015, the Company, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Ark Shuckers, LLC and Ark Shuckers Real Estate, LLC, acquired the assets ofShuckers Inc.(“Shuckers”), a restaurant and bar located at the Island Beach Resort in Jensen Beach, FL, and six condominium units (four of which house the restaurant and bar operations). In addition, Ark Island Beach Resort LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, acquired Island Beach Resort Inc., a management company that administers a rental pool of certain condominium units under lease. The total purchase price was $5,717,000. The acquisition is accounted for as a business combination and was financed with a bank loan in the amount of $5,000,000 and cash from operations.

On November 30, 2016, the Company, through newly formed, wholly-owned subsidiaries, acquired the assets of the Original Oyster House, Inc., a restaurant and bar located in the City of Gulf Shores, Baldwin County, Alabama and the related real estate and an adjacent retail shopping plaza and the Original Oyster House II, Inc., a restaurant and bar located in the City of Spanish Fort, Baldwin County, Alabama and the related real estate. The total purchase price was for $10,750,000 plus inventory of approximately $293,000. The acquisition is accounted for as a business combination and was financed with a bank loan from the Company’s existing lender in the amount of $8,000,000 and cash from operations. A preliminary allocation of the fair values of the assets acquired, were allocatedsubject to final acquisition accounting, is as follows:

 

Inventory $67,000 
Commercial condominium units  3,584,800 
Residential condominium units  263,000 
Furniture, fixtures and equipment  240,000 
Trademarks  390,000 
Customer list  90,000 
Goodwill  1,082,200 
  $5,717,000 
Inventory $293,000 
Land, buildings and fixed assets  7,950,000 
Goodwill and Intangibles  2,800,000 
  $11,043,000 

 

The above purchase price allocation resulted in an increase (decrease) related to the trademarks, customer list and goodwill of $240,000, $(110,000) and $(130,000), respectively, from the preliminary allocation. The resulting changes to customer list amortization were not material to any period presented.

- 10 -

The Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income for the 13 and 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 include revenues and earningslosses of approximately $1,286,000$1,680,000 and $116,000 and $3,867,000 and $657,000,$(54,000), respectively, related to theShuckers. andOyster House properties. The unaudited pro forma financial information set forth below is based upon the Company’s historical Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income for the 13 and 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 and June 27, 2015January 2, 2016 and includes the results of operations forShuckersand theOyster Houseproperties for the periodperiods prior to acquisition. The unaudited pro forma financial information is presented for informational purposes only and may not be indicative of what actual results of operations would have been had the acquisition ofShuckersoccurred on the dates indicated, nor does it purport to represent the results of operations for future periods.  

- 9 -
  13 Weeks Ended
  December 31,
2016
 January 2,
2016
       
Total revenues $40,205  $39,393 
Net income $1,941  $426 
Net income per share - basic $0.57  $0.12 
Net income per share - diluted $0.55  $0.12 
         
Basic  3,423   3,418 
Diluted  3,507   3,517 

 

  13 Weeks Ended  39 Weeks Ended 
  July 2,
2016
  June 27,
2015
  July 2,
2016
  June 27,
2015
 
             
Total revenues $41,233  $41,776  $111,856  $109,507 
Net income $3,367  $3,396  $3,064  $4,293 
Net income per share - basic $0.99  $1.00  $0.90  $1.27 
Net income per share - diluted $0.96  $0.97  $0.87  $1.23 

On July 18, 2014, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, Ark Jupiter RI, LLC, entered into an agreement with Crab House, Inc., and acquired certain assets and the related lease for a restaurant and bar located in Jupiter, Florida for approximately $250,000. In connection with this transaction, the Company entered into an amended lease for an initial period expiring through December 31, 2015. In June 2015, the Company exercised its option to extend the lease through December 31, 2023. The Company has additional options to extend the lease through 2033. Renovations to the property totaled approximately $750,000. The restaurant opened asThe Rustic Inn in the last week of January 2015.

On March 27, 2015, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, entered into an agreement to operate a kiosk in Bryant Park, NY for the sale of food and beverages for an initial period expiring through March 31, 2020 with an option to extend the agreement for five additional years. Renovations totaled approximately $400,000 and the property opened in July 2015.

On July 24, 2015, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, paid $544,000 (including a $144,000 security deposit) to assume the lease for an event space located in New York, NY. The assumed lease expires through March 31, 2026 with an option to extend the agreement for five additional years and provides for annual rent in the amount of approximately $300,000.

4. RECENT RESTAURANT DISPOSITIONS

4.RECENT RESTAURANT DISPOSITIONS

 

Lease ExpirationsOn October 31, 2014, the Company’s lease at theTowers Deli located at the Venetian Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV expired. The closure of this property did not result in a material charge.

On November 30, 2014, the Company’s lease at theShake & Burger located at the Venetian Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV expired. The closure of this property did not result in a material charge.

On November 30, 2015, the Company’s lease at theV-Bar located at the Venetian Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV expired. The closure of this property did not result in a material charge.

 

The Company was advised by the landlord that it would have to vacate theCenter Café property located at Union Station in Washington, DC which was on a month-to-month lease. The closure of this property occurred in February 2016 and did not result in a material charge.

 

5. INVESTMENT IN NEW MEADOWLANDS RACETRACKOther – On November 18, 2016, Ark Jupiter RI, LLC (“Ark Jupiter”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a ROFR Purchase and Sale Agreement (the “ROFR”) with SCFRC-HWG, LLC, the landlord (the “Seller”) to purchase the land and building in which the Company operates itsRustic Inn location in Jupiter, Florida. The Seller had entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with a third party to sell the premises; however, Ark Jupiter’s lease provided the Company with a right of first refusal to purchase the property. Ark Jupiter exercised the ROFR on October 4, 2016 and made a ten (10%) percent deposit on the purchase price of approximately Five Million Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($5,200,000). Concurrent with the execution of the ROFR, Ark Jupiter entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with 1065 A1A, LLC to sell this same property for Eight Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($8,250,000). In connection with the sale, Ark Jupiter and 1065 A1A, LLC have entered into a temporary lease and sub-lease arrangement which expires on April 30, 2017, at which time the Company expects to vacate the space. In connection with these transactions the Company recognized a gain in the amount of $1,637,000 during the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

The Company’s is in the process of transferring its lease and the related assets ofCanyon Road located in New York, NY to an unrelated third party. In connection with this pending transfer, the Company recognized an impairment loss included in depreciation and amortization expense in the amount of $75,000 for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

5.INVESTMENT IN NEW MEADOWLANDS RACETRACK

 

On March 12, 2013, the Company made a $4,200,000 investment in the New Meadowlands Racetrack LLC (“NMR”) through its purchase of a membership interest in Meadowlands Newmark, LLC, an existing member of NMR. On November 19, 2013, the Company invested an additional $464,000 in NMR through a purchase of an additional membership interest in Meadowlands Newmark, LLC resulting in a total ownership of 11.6% of Meadowlands Newmark, LLC, subject to dilution. In 2015, the Company invested an additional $222,000, as a result of capital calls, bringing its total investment to $4,886,000 with no change in ownership. This investment has been accounted for based on the cost method. .

 

In addition to the Company’s ownership interest in NMR through Meadowlands Newmark, LLC, if casino gaming is approved at the Meadowlands and NMR is granted the right to conduct said gaming, neither of which can be assured, the Company shall be

- 11 -

granted the exclusive right to operate the food and beverage concessions in the gaming facility with the exception of one restaurant. This investment has been accounted for based on the cost method. The Company periodically reviews its investments for impairment. If the Company determines that an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred, it will write-down the investment to its fair value. No indication of impairment was noted as of July 2, 2016.

 

In conjunction with this investment, the Company, through a 97% owned subsidiary, Ark Meadowlands LLC (“AM VIE”), also entered into a long-term agreement with NMR for the exclusive right to operate food and beverage concessions serving the new raceway facilities (the “Racing F&B Concessions”) located in the new raceway grandstand constructed at the Meadowlands Racetrack in northern New Jersey. Under the agreement, NMR is responsible to pay for the costs and expenses incurred in the operation of the Racing F&B Concessions, and all revenues and profits thereof inure to the benefit of NMR. AM VIE receives

- 10 -

an annual fee equal to 5% of the net profits received by NMR from the Racing F&B Concessions during each calendar year. At July 2,December 31, 2016, it was determined that AM VIE is a variable interest entity. However, based on qualitative consideration of the contracts with AM VIE, the operating structure of AM VIE, the Company’s role with AM VIE, and that the Company is not obligated to absorb any expected losses of AM VIE, the Company has concluded that it is not the primary beneficiary and not required to consolidate the operations of AM VIE.

 

The Company’s maximum exposure to loss as a result of its involvement with AM VIE is limited to a receivable from AM VIE’s primary beneficiary (NMR, a related party) which aggregated approximately $161,000$11,000 and $272,000$164,000 at July 2,December 31, 2016 and October 3, 2015,1, 2016, respectively, and are included in Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

 

On April 25, 2014, the Company loaned $1,500,000 to Meadowlands Newmark, LLC. The note bears interest at 3%, compounded monthly and added to the principal, and is due in its entirety on January 31, 2024. The note may be prepaid, in whole or in part, at any time without penalty or premium. On July 13, 2016, the Company made an additional loan to Meadowlands Newmark, LLC in the amount of $200,000. Such amount is subject to the same terms and conditions as the original loan as discussed above. The principal and accrued interest related to this note totaled $1,602,609in the amounts of $1,830,000 and $1,566,997$1,815,000, are included in Investment In and Receivable From New Meadowlands Racetrack in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at July 2,December 31, 2016 and October 3, 2015,1, 2016, respectively.

 

6. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIESIn accordance with the cost method, our initial investment is recorded at cost and we record dividend income when applicable, if dividends are declared. We review our Investment in NMR each reporting period to determine whether a significant event or change in circumstances has occurred that may have an adverse effect on its fair value, such as the defeat of the referendum for casino gaming in Northern New Jersey in November 2016. The voter referendum for casino gaming in Northern New Jersey was defeated in November 2016. State law prohibits the issue from being put on the ballot before voters for the following two years. In connection with NMR’s restructuring of an existing loan which comes due on June 30, 2018, and to extend the loan through December 2021, the Company funded its proportionate share of a $3 million capital call rather than having its interest diluted (see Note 13).

As a result, we performed an assessment of the recoverability of our indirect Investment in NMR as of October 1, 2016 which included estimates requiring significant management judgment, include inherent uncertainties and are often ·interdependent; therefore, they do not change in isolation. Factors that management estimated include, among others, the probability of gambling being approved in Northern NJ which is the most heavily weighted assumption and NMR obtaining a license to operate a casino, revenue levels, cost of capital, marketing spending, tax rates and capital spending.

In performing this assessment, we estimated the fair value of our Investment in NMR using our best estimate of these assumptions which we believe would be consistent with what a hypothetical marketplace participant would use. The variability of these factors depends on a number of conditions, including uncertainty about future events and our inability as a minority shareholder to control certain outcomes and thus our accounting estimates may change from period to period. If other assumptions and estimates had been used when these tests were performed, impairment charges could have resulted. As a result of the above, no impairment was deemed necessary as of December 31, 2016.

6.ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following:

 

 July 2,
2016
  October 3,
2015
  December 31,
2016
 October 1,
2016
 
 (In thousands)  (In thousands) 
             
Sales tax payable $1,344  $992  $1,044  $942 
Accrued wages and payroll related costs  2,167   1,832   1,862   2,495 
Customer advance deposits  3,545   3,967   1,772   4,077 
Accrued occupancy and other operating expenses  3,091   3,541   3,841   3,041 
                
 $10,147  $10,332  $8,519  $10,555 
- 11 -
7.NOTES PAYABLE - BANK

 

7. NOTES PAYABLE - BANKLong-term debt consists of the following:

  December 31,
2016
 October 1,
2016
  (In thousands) 
    
Promissory Note - Rustic Inn purchase $3,503  $3,907 
Promissory Note - Shuckers purchase  3,833   4,084 
Promissory Note - Oyster House purchase  8,000   - 
         
   15,336   7,991 
Less: Current maturities  (4,216)  (2,617)
Less: Unamortized deferred financing costs  (49)  (53)
         
Long-term debt $11,071  $5,321 

 

On February 25, 2013, the Company issued a promissory note to Bank Hapoalim B.M. (the “BHBM”) for $3,000,000. The note bore interest at LIBOR plus 3.5% per annum, and was payable in 36 equal monthly installments of $83,333, commencing on March 25, 2013. On February 24, 2014, in connection with the acquisition ofThe Rustic Inn, the Company borrowed an additional $6,000,000 from BHBM under the same terms and conditions as the original loan which was consolidated with the remaining principal balance from the original borrowing at that date. The new loan is payable in 60 equal monthly installments of $134,722, which commenced on March 25, 2014. As of July 2,December 31, 2016, the outstanding balance of this note payable was approximately $4,311,000.$3,503,000.

 

On October 22, 2015, in connection with the acquisition ofShuckers, the Company issued a promissory note to BHBM for $5,000,000. The note bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.5% per annum, and is payable in 60 equal monthly installments of $83,333, commencing on November 22, 2015. As of July 2,December 31, 2016, the outstanding balance of this note payable was approximately $4,333,000.$3,833,000.

On November 30, 2016, in connection with the acquisition of theOyster House properties, the Company issued a promissory note to BHBM for $8,000,000. The note bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.5% per annum, and is payable in 60 equal monthly installments of $133,273, commencing on January 1, 2017. As of December 31, 2016, the outstanding balance of this note payable was $8,000,000.

 

On October 22, 2015, in connection with theShuckers transaction, the Company also entered into a credit agreement (the “Revolving Facility”) with BHBM which expires on October 21, 2017 and provides for total availability of the lesser of (i) $10,000,000 and (ii) $20,000,000 less the then aggregate amount of all indebtedness and obligations to BHBM. Borrowings under the Revolving Facility will be evidenced by a promissory note (the “Revolving Note”) in favor of BHBM and will be payable over five years with interest at an annual rate equal to LIBOR plus 3.5% per year. As of July 2, 2016, no additional amounts were outstanding under the Revolving Facility.

- 12 -

Deferred financing costs incurred in connection with the Revolving Facility in the amount of $130,585 are being amortized over the life of the agreements on a straight linestraight-line basis. Amortization expense of $11,395$11,000 and $31,680 for the 13 and 39-weeks ended July 2, 2016$9,000 is included in interest expense.expense for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016, respectively.

 

Borrowings under the Revolving Facility, which include bothall of the above promissory notes, are secured by all tangible and intangible personal property (including accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, general intangibles, documents, chattel paper, instruments, letter-of-credit rights, investment property, intellectual property and deposit accounts) and fixtures of the Company.

 

The loan agreements provide, among other things, that the Company meet minimum quarterly tangible net worth amounts, as defined, maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio of not less than 1.1:1 and minimum annual net income amounts, and contain customary representations, warranties and affirmative covenants. The agreements also contain customary negative covenants, subject to negotiated exceptions, on liens, relating to other indebtedness, capital expenditures, liens, affiliate transactions, disposal of assets and certain changes in ownership. The Company was in compliance with all debt covenants as of July 2,December 31, 2016.

8. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

- 12 -
8.COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Leases — The Company leases its restaurants, bar facilities, and administrative headquarters through its subsidiaries under terms expiring at various dates through 2032. Most of the leases provide for the payment of base rents plus real estate taxes, insurance and other expenses and, in certain instances, for the payment of a percentage of the restaurant’s sales in excess of stipulated amounts at such facility and in one instance based on profits.

 

On January 12, 2016, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Lease for itsSequoiaproperty in Washington D.C. extending the lease for 15 years through November 30, 2032 with one additional five-year option. Annual rent under the new lease is approximately $1,200,000 increasing annually through expiration. Under the terms of the agreement, the property will be closed from January 1, 2017 through March 31, 2017 for renovation and reconcepting. The Company is currently developing the concept and design relating to the renovated space and estimates the total cost to be approximately $4,000,000$6,000,000 to $5,000,000.$7,000,000.

LegalProceedings— In the ordinary course of its business, the Company is a party to various lawsuits arising from accidents at its restaurants and worker’s compensation claims, which are generally handled by the Company’s insurance carriers. The employment by the Company of management personnel, waiters, waitresses and kitchen staff at a number of different restaurants has resulted, from time to time, in litigation alleging violation by the Company of employment discrimination laws. Management believes, based in part on the advice of counsel, 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.

 

9. STOCK OPTIONSShare Repurchase Plan — On July 5, 2016, the Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program authorizing management to purchase up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock during the next twelve months. Any repurchase under the program will be effected in compliance with Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 “Purchases of Certain Equity Securities by the Issuer and Others”, funded using the Company’s working capital and be based on management’s evaluation of market conditions and other factors. No repurchases were made during the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

9.STOCK OPTIONS

 

The Company has options outstanding under two stock option plans, the 2004 Stock Option Plan (the “2004 Plan”) and the 2010 Stock Option Plan (the “2010 Plan”), which was approved by shareholders in the second quarter of 2010. Effective with this approval, the Company terminated the 2004 Plan. This action terminated the 400 authorized but unissued options under the 2004 Plan, but it did not affect any of the options previously issued under the 2004 Plan. Options granted under the 2004 Plan are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stock on the dates the options were granted. The options expire ten years after the date of grant.

Under the 2010 Plan, 500,000 options were authorized for future grant. Options granted under the 2010 Plan are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stock on the dates the options were granted. The options expire ten years after the date of grant.

 

On April 5, 2016, the shareholders of the Company approved the 2016 Stock Option Plan and the Section 162(m) Cash Bonus Plan. Under the 2016 Stock Option Plan, 500,000 options were authorized for future grant and are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stock on the dates the options were granted. The options expire ten years after the date of grant. Under the Section 162(m) Cash Bonus Plan, compensation paid in excess of $1,000,000 to any employee who is the chief executive officer, or one of the three highest paid executive officers on the last day of that tax year (other than the chief executive officer or the chief financial officer) will meet certain “performance-based” requirements of Section 162(m) and the related IRS regulations in order for it to be tax deductible.

 

During the quarter ended December 31, 2016, options to purchase 90,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $29.60 per share expired unexercised.

No options or performance-based awards were granted during the 39-week13-week period ended July 2,December 31, 2016.

A summary of stock option activity is presented below:

  2017 
  Shares Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 Weighted
Average
Contractual
Term
 Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
Outstanding, beginning of period  518,608  $19.76   5.1 Years     
Options:                
Granted  -             
Exercised  -             
Canceled or expired  (90,000) $32.15         
Outstanding and expected to vest, end of period  428,608  $17.85   5.9 Years  $2,743,000 
Exercisable, end of period  428,608  $17.85   5.9 Years  $2,743,000 
- 13 -

A summary of stock option activity is presented below:

  2016 
  Shares  Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
  Weighted
Average
Contractual
Term
  Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
                 
Outstanding, beginning of period  523,800  $20.29   6.1 Years     
Options:                
Granted               
Exercised  (100) $14.40         
Canceled or expired               
Outstanding and expected to vest, end of period  523,700  $20.29   5.4 Years  $2,163,214 
                 
Exercisable, end of period  422,200  $19.76   4.8 Years  $2,130,734 

Compensation cost charged to operations for the 13-week periods ended JulyDecember 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 was $0 and June 27, 2015 was $79,000 and $105,000, respectively and for the 39-week periods ended July 2, 2016 and June 27, 2015 was $286,000 and $313,000,$103,000, respectively. The compensation cost recognized is classified as a general and administrative expense in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income.

 

As of July 2,December 31, 2016, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options.

 

10. INCOME TAXES

10.INCOME TAXES

 

The Company’s provision for income taxes consists of Federal, state and local taxes in amounts necessary to align the Company’s year-to-date provision for income taxes with the effective tax rate that the Company expects to achieve for the full year. Each quarter, the Company updates its estimate of the annual effective tax rate and records cumulative adjustments as deemed necessary. The income tax provisionprovisions for the 39-week13-week periods ended JulyDecember 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 and June 27, 2015 reflectsreflect effective tax rates of approximately 25%30% and 23%, respectively.  The Company expects its effective tax rate for its current fiscal year to be significantly lower than the statutory rate as a result of the generation of FICA tax credits and operating income attributable to the non-controlling interests of the VIEs that is not taxable to the Company. The final annual tax rate cannot be determined until the end of the fiscal year; therefore, the actual tax rate could differ from current estimates.

 

The Company’s overall effective tax rate in the future will be affected by factors such as the utilization of state and local net operating loss carryforwards, the generation of FICA tax credits and the mix of earnings by state taxing jurisdiction as Nevada does not impose a  state income tax, as compared to the other major state and local jurisdictions in which the Company has operations.

 

11. INCOME PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCKDuring the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016, certain equity compensation awards expired unexercised. As such, the Company reversed the related deferred tax asset in the amount of approximately $397,000 as a charge to Additional Paid-in Capital as there was a sufficient pool of windfall tax benefit available.

11.INCOME PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK

 

Net income per share is calculated on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period plus, for diluted net income per share, the additional dilutive effect of potential common stock. Potential common stock using the treasury stock method consists of dilutive stock options.

 

For the 13 and 39-week periods13-week period ended July 2,December 31, 2016, options to purchase 66,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $12.04 per share and options to purchase 164,700160,800 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.40 per share were included in diluted earnings per share. Options to purchase 203,000201,808 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $22.50 per share and options to purchase 90,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $32.15 were not included in diluted earnings per share as their impact would be anti-dilutive.

 

For the 13 and 39-week periods13-week period ended June 27, 2015,January 2, 2016, options to purchase 74,00066,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $12.04 per share, options to purchase 169,800164,700 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.40 per share and options to purchase 205,500203,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $22.50 per share were included in diluted earnings per share. Options to purchase 90,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $32.15 were not included in diluted earnings per share as their impact would bewas anti-dilutive.

- 14 -12.DIVIDENDS

12. DIVIDENDS

 

On June 2,December 7, 2016, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share on the Company’s common stock to be paid on July 1, 2016January 3, 2017 to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 16,December 20, 2016. The Company intends to continue to pay such quarterly cash dividends for the foreseeable future, however, the payment of future dividends is at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors and is based on future earnings, cash flow, financial condition, capital requirements, changes in U.S. taxation and other relevant factors.

 

13. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

13.SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

On July 5, 2016, the Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program authorizing management to purchase up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock during the next twelve months. Any repurchase under the program will be effected in compliance with Rule 10b-18 “Purchases of Certain Equity Securities by the Issuer and Others”, funded using the Company’s working capital and be based on management’s evaluation of market conditions and other factors.

On July 13, 2016,January 4, 2017, the Company madeclosed itsSequoia property in Washington, DC for a major renovation. The restaurant is expected to re-open in May 2017. In connection with this closure, the Company recognized an additional loanimpairment loss related to Meadowlands Newmark LLCfixed asset disposals in the amount of $200,000. Such amount is subject to the same terms and conditions as the original loan as discussed in Note 5.

Two subsidiaries of the Company (“the Ark Subsidiaries”),$283,000, which operate food courts on Federally protected Indian land, have been involved in litigation with the state in which they operate, whereby the state has attempted to collect commercial rent tax from the Ark Subsidiaries. The Company had continued to accrue such taxes as the litigation has worked its way through the courts. During July 2016, the state agreed to the entry of consent judgments in favor of the Ark Subsidiaries holding that the state is constitutionally prohibited from taxing rentals of Indian land. In connection with this agreement, the Company has reversed the accrual of these liabilities in the amount of $945,205 as of July 2, 2016. Such reversal is included in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of IncomeDepreciation and Amortization Expense for the 13 and 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2, 2016December 31, 2016.

On February 7, 2017, the Company invested an additional $222,000 in NMR as a reductionresult of Occupancy Expenses with corresponding adjustmentsa capital call bringing its total equity investment to Net Income Attributable to Non-controlling Interests and Tax Expense in the amounts of $336,622 and $158,840, respectively.$5,108,000.

- 1514 -

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

 

Overview

 

As of July 2,December 31, 2016, the Company owned and operated 2122 restaurants and bars, 19 fast food concepts and catering operations, exclusively in the United States, that have similar economic characteristics, nature of products and service, class of customer and distribution methods. The Company believes it meets the criteria for aggregating its operating segments into a single reporting segment in accordance with applicable accounting guidance. The Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income for the 13 and 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 include revenues and earningslosses of approximately $1,286,000$1,680,000 and $116,000 and $3,867,000 and $657,000,$(54,000), respectively, related toShuckers, which was acquired on October 22, 2015.2015 and theOyster House properties, which were acquired on November 30, 2016.

 

Accounting Period

Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest September 30. We report fiscal years under a 52/53-week format. This reporting method is used by many companies in the hospitality industry and is meant to improve year-to-year comparisons of operating results. Under this method, certain years will contain 53 weeks. The periods ended JulyDecember 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 and June 27, 2015 each included 13 weeks.

 

Seasonality

The Company has substantial fixed costs that do not decline proportionately with sales. At our properties located in the northeast, the first and second fiscal quarters, which include the winter months, usually reflect lower customer traffic than in the third and fourth fiscal quarters. However, sales in the third and fourth fiscal quarters can be adversely affected by inclement weather due to the significant amount of outdoor seating at the Company’s restaurants.

 

Results of Operations

The Company’s operating income for the 13 weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 was $5,309,000$2,942,000 as compared to $4,701,000$633,000 for the 13 weeks ended June 27, 2015.January 2, 2016. This increase resulted primarily from: (i)from the reversal of commercial rent tax liabilities in the amount of $945,000 (see “Recent Developments”), (ii) the correction of an immaterial error related to an overstatementrecognition of a rent liabilitygain in connection with the amountsale of $261,000, and (iii) operating incomethe real estate underlying ourRustic Inn, Jupiter, FL property combined with overall better performance at most of $490,000 atSouthwest Porchin Bryant Park, NY which was opened in July 2015,our other properties partially offset by (i) decreases in operating income at theRustic Inn, Dania Beach Florida, (ii) professional fees incurred in connection with our acquisition of theOyster House properties and $358,000 of additional depreciation expense related to asset write-offs atSequoia(which is undergoing a major renovation) andCanyon Road(whose lease is in the closure, dueprocess of being transferred to lease expiration, ofV Barin November 2015, the closure ofCenter Cafe in February 2016 and higher than expected operating payrolls due to labor law changes.an unrelated third party).

 

The following table summarizes the significant components of the Company’s operating results for the 13- and 39-week13-week periods ended JulyDecember 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016, and June 27, 2015, respectively:

 

 13 Weeks Ended  Variance  39 Weeks Ended  Variance  13-Weeks Ended Variance
 July 2,
2016
 June 27,
2015
 $ % July 2,
2016
 June 27,
2015
 $ %  December 31,
2016
 January 2,
2016
 $ %
 (in thousands)     (in thousands)      (in thousands)   
REVENUES:                                                
Food and beverage sales $40,935  $40,016  $919   2.3% $110,503  $104,278  $6,225   6.0% $37,953  $36,632  $1,321   3.6%
Other revenue  298   359   (61)  -17.0%  1,111   1,004   107   10.7%  439   359   80   22.3%
Total revenues  41,233   40,375   858   2.1%  111,614   105,282   6,332   6.0%  38,392   36,991   1,401   3.8%
                                                
COSTS AND EXPENSES:                                                
Food and beverage cost of sales  10,656   10,573   83   0.8%  29,440   28,491   949   3.3%  9,750   9,592   158   1.6%
Payroll expenses  12,895   12,019   876   7.3%  38,100   34,158   3,942   11.5%  12,956   13,192   (236)  -1.8%
Occupancy expenses  3,309   4,351   (1,042)  -23.9%  11,891   12,367   (476)  -3.8%  4,732   4,545   187   4.1%
Other operating costs and expenses  4,999   4,858   141   2.9%  14,485   13,473   1,012   7.5%  4,866   4,563   303   6.6%
General and administrative expenses  2,956   2,769   187   6.8%  8,996   8,200   796   9.7%  3,300   3,328   (28)  -0.8%
Depreciation and amortization  1,109   1,104   5   0.5%  3,384   3,308   76   2.3%  1,483   1,138   345   30.3%
Total costs and expenses  35,924   35,674   250   0.7%  106,296   99,997   6,299   6.3%  37,087   36,358   729   2.0%
                                
RESTAURANT OPERATING INCOME  1,305   633   672   106.2%
Gain on sale of Rustic Inn, Jupiter  1,637   -   1,637   N/A 
OPERATING INCOME $5,309  $4,701  $608   12.9% $5,318  $5,285  $33   0.6% $2,942  $633  $2,309   364.8%
- 1615 -

Revenues

 

During the Company’s 13- and 39-week periods13-week period ended July 2,December 31, 2016, revenues increased 2.1% and 6.0%, respectively,3.8% as compared to revenues in the 13- and 39-week periods13-week period ended June 27, 2015.January 2, 2016. This increase resulted primarily from: (i) revenues related to theShuckersOyster House properties in Jensen Beach, FLGulf Shores, Alabama (which waswere acquired on October 22, 2015), (ii) revenues related to theSouthwest Porchin Bryant Park, NY (which opened on July 1, 2015)November 30, 2016), and (iii)(ii) the same-store sales impacts discussed below, partially offset by the closure ofCenter Café in Washington, DC and three propertiestheV Bar in Las Vegas (V Bar, Shake & BurgerandTowers Deli) as a result of lease expirations.

 

Food and Beverage Same-Store Sales

On a Company-wide basis, same-store sales decreased 1.6%increased 2.7% during the thirdfirst fiscal quarter of 20162017 as compared to the same period last year as follows:

  13 Weeks Ended  Variance 
  July 2,
2016
  June 27,
2015
  $  % 
  (in thousands)       
                 
Las Vegas $11,161  $11,198  $(37)  -0.3%
New York  11,607   11,431   176   1.5%
Washington, DC  4,648   4,649   (1)  0.0%
Atlantic City, NJ  1,705   1,595   110   6.9%
Boston  941   1,060   (119)  -11.2%
Connecticut  893   856   37   4.3%
Florida  6,624   7,419   (795)  -10.7%
Same-store sales  37,579   38,208  $(629)  -1.6%
Other  3,356   1,808         
Food and beverage sales $40,935  $40,016         

  13 Weeks Ended  Variance
  December 31,
2016
  January 2,
2016
  $ %
  (in thousands)         
                 
Las Vegas $11,342  $10,646  $696   6.5%
New York  11,495   10,894   601   5.5%
Washington, DC  2,842   2,641   201   7.6%
Atlantic City, NJ  1,640   1,484   156   10.5%
Boston  907   986   (79)  -8.0%
Connecticut  858   872   (14)  -1.6%
Florida  6,464   7,079   (615)  -8.7%
Same-store sales  35,548   34,602  $946   2.7%
Other  2,405   2,030         
Food and beverage sales $37,953  $36,632         

 

Same-store sales in Las Vegas (which excludeV Bar,Shake & BurgerandTowers Deliproperties as they were closed prior to July 2, 2016) decreased 0.3%increased 6.5% primarily as a result of increased competition.an increase in tourism and convention business, all related to the current economic conditions. Same-store sales in New York increased 1.5%5.5%, primarily as a result of good weather conditions.conditions and strong catering revenues. Same-store sales in Washington, DC, which excludesCenter Café which closed in February 2016, were flat.increased 7.6%, primarily as a result of good weather conditions and strong catering revenues. Same-store sales in Atlantic City increased 6.9%10.5%, primarily due to increased traffic at properties in which we operate our restaurants. Same-store sales in Boston decreased 11.2%8.0%, primarily as a result of poor weather conditions as compared to the same period last year. Same-store sales in Connecticut increased 4.3% due to slightly betterdecreased traffic at the Foxwoods Resort and CasinoFaneuil Hall Marketplace where our properties areproperty is located. Same-store sales in Florida decreased 10.7%8.7% reflecting decreased traffic atThe Rustic Inn in Dania Beach, FL due to a road construction project started in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 by the local municipality that is expected to last approximately 18 months combined with increased competition at one of our food court properties. Other food and beverage sales consist of sales related to new restaurants opened or acquired during the applicable period (e.g.Southwest Porchand the ShuckersOyster House)properties)and sales related to properties that were closed due to lease expiration and other closures.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Costs and expenses for the 13- and 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 and June 27, 2015January 2, 2016 were as follows (in thousands):

 

  13 Weeks     13 Weeks           39 Weeks     39 Weeks          
  Ended  % Ended  %       Ended  % to Ended  % to Increase 
  July 2,  to Total June 27,  to Total Increase  July 2,  Total June 27,  Total (Decrease) 
  2016  Revenues 2015  Revenues $  %  2016  Revenues 2015  Revenues $  % 
                                     
Food and beverage cost of sales $10,656   25.8% $10,573   26.2% $83   0.8% $29,440   26.4% $28,491   27.1% $949   3.3%
Payroll expenses  12,895   31.3%  12,019   29.8%  876   7.3%  38,100   34.1%  34,158   32.4%  3,942   11.5%
Occupancy expenses  3,309   8.0%  4,351   10.8%  (1,042)  -23.9%  11,891   10.7%  12,367   11.7%  (476)  -3.8%
Other operating costs and expenses  4,999   12.1%  4,858   12.0%  141   2.9%  14,485   13.0%  13,473   12.8%  1,012   7.5%
General and administrative expenses  2,956   7.2%  2,769   6.9%  187   6.8%  8,996   8.1%  8,200   7.8%  796   9.7%
Depreciation and amortization  1,109   2.7%  1,104   2.7%  5   0.5%  3,384   3.0%  3,308   3.1%  76   2.3%
  $35,924      $35,674      $250      $106,296      $99,997      $6,299     

  13 Weeks
Ended
 % to 13 Weeks
Ended
 % to  Increase
(Decrease)
  December 31,
2016
 Total
Revenues
 January 2,
2016
 Total
Revenues
  $ %
                         
Food and beverage cost of sales $9,750   25.4% $9,592   25.9% $158   1.6%
Payroll expenses  12,956   33.7%  13,192   35.7%  (236)  -1.8%
Occupancy expenses  4,732   12.3%  4,545   12.3%  187   4.1%
Other operating costs and expenses  4,866   12.7%  4,563   12.3%  303   6.6%
General and administrative expenses  3,300   8.6%  3,328   9.0%  (28)  -0.8%
Depreciation and amortization  1,483   3.9%  1,138   3.1%  345   30.3%
  $37,087      $36,358      $729     
- 16 -

The decrease in food and beverage costs as a percentage of total revenues for the 13- and 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 compared to the same period of last year is primarily the result of menu price increases.increases in fiscal 2016 and the stabilization of commodity prices.

- 17 -

Payroll expenses as a percentage of total revenues for the 13- and 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 increaseddecreased primarily as a result of better labor law changesmanagement and payroll incurred atThe Rustic Innthe increasing mix of sales in Jupiter, FL with no corresponding increase in sales.markets where labor costs are lower.

 

Occupancy expenses as a percentage of total revenues excluding the impact of the reversal of commercial rent tax liabilities in the amount of $945,000 (see “Recent Developments”) and the correction of an error related to an overstatement of a rent liability in the amount of $261,000, for the 13- and 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 were consistent withas compared to the same periodsperiod of last year.year as a result of higher sales at properties where rents are relatively fixed or where the Company owns the premises at which the property operates (The Rustic Inn in Dania Beach, FL,Shuckers in Jensen Beach, FL and theOyster House properties in Gulf Shores, Alabama) offset by rent increases at our other properties.

 

Other operating costs and expenses as a percentage of total revenues for the 13- and 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 were relatively consistent with the same periodsperiod of last year.

 

General and administrative expenses (which relate solely to the corporate office in New York City) as a percentage of total revenues for the 13-13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 were consistent with the same period of last year.

Depreciation and 39-weeksamortization expense for the 13-weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 increasedincrease $345,000 as compared to the same period of last year primarily as a result of annual compensation adjustments and transaction costsadditional depreciation in the first quarteramount of 2016$358,000 related to asset write-offs atSequoia(which is undergoing a major renovation) andCanyon Road(whose lease is in the process of approximately $160,000 incurred in connection with the purchase ofShuckers.being transferred to an unrelated party).

 

Income Taxes

 

The Company’s provision for income taxes consists of Federal, state and local taxes in amounts necessary to align the Company’s year-to-date provision for income taxes with the effective tax rate that the Company expects to achieve for the full year. Each quarter, the Company updates its estimate of the annual effective tax rate and records cumulative adjustments as deemed necessary. The income tax provisionprovisions for the 39-week13-week periods ended JulyDecember 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 and June 27, 2015 reflect effective tax rates of approximately 25%30% and 23%, respectively. The Company expects its effective tax rate for its current fiscal year to be significantly lower than the statutory rate as a result of the generation of FICA tax credits and operating income attributable to the non-controlling interests of the VIEs that is not taxable to the Company. The final annual tax rate cannot be determined until the end of the fiscal year; therefore, the actual tax rate could differ from current estimates.

 

The Company’s overall effective tax rate in the future will be affected by factors such as the utilization of state and local net operating loss carryforwards, the generation of FICA tax credits and the mix of earnings by state taxing jurisdiction as Nevada does not impose a state income tax, as compared to the other major state and local jurisdictions in which the Company has operations.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Our primary source of capital has been cash provided by operations.operations and, in recent years, bank and other borrowings to finance specific transactions and acquisitions. We utilize cash generated from operations to fund the cost of developing and opening new restaurants acquiring existing restaurants owned by others and remodeling existing restaurants we own; however, in recent years, we have utilized bank and other borrowings to finance specific transactions.own.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities for the 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2,December 31, 2016 decreased $245,000increased to $1,824,000 as compared to $961,000 used in operations in the same period of last year. This decreaseincrease was attributable to a decreasean increase in operating income discussed above combined with changes in net working capital primarily related to accounts receivable, prepaid, refundable and accrued income taxes and accounts payable and accrued expenses.

 

Net cash used in investing activities for the 39-week13-week period ended JulyDecember 31, 2016 was $2,260,000 and resulted primarily from purchases of fixed assets at existing restaurants and the cash portion of the purchase of theOyster House properties in the amount of $3,043,000, partially offset by the net proceeds in the amount of $2,474,000 from the sale ofThe Rustic Inn in Jupiter, Florida.

Net cash used in investing activities for the 13-week period ended January 2, 2016, was $2,196,000$942,000 and resulted primarily from purchases of fixed assets at existing restaurants and the cash portion of the purchase ofShuckersin the amount of $717,000.

 

Net cash used in investing activities for the 39-week period ended June 27, 2015 was $2,456,000 and resulted primarily from purchases of fixed assets at existing restaurants and improvements made at our new property,The Rustic Innin Jupiter, FL, which was opened in the last week of January 2015.

Net cash used in financing activities for the 39-week13-week periods ended JulyDecember 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 of $2,141,000 and June 27, 2015 of $5,308,000 and $5,153,000,$1,952,000, respectively, resulted primarily from the payment of dividends, principal payments on notes payable and distributions to non-controlling interests.

- 17 -

The Company had a working capital deficiency of $641,000$4,434,000 at July 2,December 31, 2016 as compared to working capitalwith a deficiency of $129,000$658,000 at October 3, 2015. 1, 2016. This decrease resulted primarily from our purchase of theOyster Houseproperties in November 2016.We believe that our existing cash balances and cash provided by operations will be sufficient to meet our liquidity and capital spending requirements at least through the next 12 months.

 

On January 12, 2016, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Lease for itsSequoiaproperty in Washington D.C. extending the lease for 15 years through November 30, 2032 with one additional five-year option. Annual rent under the new lease is approximately $1,200,000 increasing annually through expiration. Under the terms of the agreement, the property will be closed from January 1, 2017 through March 31, 2017 for renovation and reconcepting. The Company is currently developing the concept and design relating to the renovated space and estimates the total cost to be approximately $4,000,000$6,000,000 to $5,000,000.$7,000,000.

- 18 -

On June 2,December 7, 2016, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share on the Company’s common stock to be paid on July 1, 2016January 3, 2017 to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 16,December 20, 2016. The Company intends to continue to pay such quarterly cash dividends for the foreseeable future, however, the payment of future dividends is at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors and is based on future earnings, cash flow, financial condition, capital requirements, changes in U.S. taxation and other relevant factors.

 

Recent Restaurant Expansion

 

On October 22, 2015, the Company, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Ark Shuckers, LLC and Ark Shuckers Real Estate, LLC, acquired the assets ofShuckers Inc.(“Shuckers”), a restaurant and bar located at the Island Beach Resort in Jensen Beach, FL, and six condominium units (four of which house the restaurant and bar operations). In addition, Ark Island Beach Resort LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, acquired Island Beach Resort Inc., a management company that administers a rental pool of certain condominium units under lease. The total purchase price was $5,717,000. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and was financed with a bank loan in the amount of $5,000,000 and cash from operations.

 

On July 18, 2014,November 30, 2016, the Company, through anewly formed, wholly-owned subsidiary, Ark Jupiter RI, LLC, entered into an agreement with Crabsubsidiaries, acquired the assets of the Original Oyster House, Inc., and acquired certain assets and the related lease for a restaurant and bar located in Jupiter, Florida for approximately $250,000. In connection with this transaction, the Company entered intoCity of Gulf Shores, Baldwin County, Alabama and the related real estate and an amended lease for an initial period expiring through December 31, 2015. In June 2015,adjacent retail shopping plaza and the Company exercised its option to extend the lease through December 31, 2023. The Company has additional options to extend the lease through 2033. Renovations to the property totaled approximately $750,000. TheOriginal Oyster House II, Inc., a restaurant opened asThe Rustic Innand bar located in the last weekCity of January 2015.Spanish Fort, Baldwin County, Alabama and the related real estate. The total purchase price was for $10,750,000 plus inventory of approximately $293,000. The acquisition is accounted for as a business combination and was financed with a bank loan from the Company’s existing lender in the amount of $8,000,000 and cash from operations.

 

On March 27, 2015, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, entered into an agreement to operate a kiosk in Bryant Park, NY for the sale of food and beverages for an initial period expiring throughon March 31, 2020 with an option to extend the agreement for five additional years. Renovations totaled approximately $400,000 and the property opened in July 2015.

 

On July 24, 2015, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, paid $544,000 (including a $144,000 security deposit) to assume the lease for an event space located in New York, NY. The assumed lease expires through March 31, 2026 with an option to extend the agreement for five additional years and provides for annual rent in the amount of approximately $300,000.

 

Recent Restaurant Dispositions

 

Lease Expirations – On October 31, 2014, the Company’s lease at theTowers Deli located at the Venetian Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV expired. The closure of this property did not result in a material charge.

On November 30, 2014, the Company’s lease at theShake & Burger located at the Venetian Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV expired. The closure of this property did not result in a material charge.

On November 30, 2015, the Company’s lease at theV-Bar located at the Venetian Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV expired. The closure of this property did not result in a material charge.

 

The Company was advised by the landlord that it would have to vacate theCenter Café property located at Union Station in Washington, DC which was on a month-to-month lease. The closure of this property occurred in February 2016 and did not result in a material charge.

 

Recent Developments

OtherOn April 5,November 18, 2016, the shareholdersArk Jupiter RI, LLC (“Ark Jupiter”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, approvedentered into a ROFR Purchase and Sale Agreement (the “ROFR”) with SCFRC-HWG, LLC, the landlord (the “Seller”) to purchase the land and building in which the Company operates itsRustic Inn location in Jupiter, Florida. The Seller had entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with a third party to sell the premises; however, Ark Jupiter’s lease provided the Company with a right of first refusal to purchase the property. Ark Jupiter exercised the ROFR on October 4, 2016 Stock Option Plan and the Section 162(m) Cash Bonus Plan. Under the 2016 Stock Option Plan, 500,000 options were authorized for future grant and are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stockmade a ten (10%) percent deposit on the datespurchase price of approximately Five Million Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($5,200,000). Concurrent with the options were granted. The options expire ten years after the date of grant. Under the Section 162(m) Cash Bonus Plan, compensation paid in excess of $1,000,000 to any employee who is the chief executive officer, or oneexecution of the three highest paid executive officers onROFR, Ark Jupiter entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with 1065 A1A, LLC to sell this same property for Eight Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($8,250,000). In connection with the last day of that tax year (other than the chief executive officer or the chief financial officer) will meet certain “performance-based” requirements of Section 162(m)sale, Ark Jupiter and the related IRS regulations in order for it to be tax deductible.

On July 5, 2016, the Board of Directors authorized1065 A1A, LLC have entered into a share repurchase program authorizing management to purchase up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock during the next twelve months. Any repurchase under the program will be effected in compliance with Rule 10b-18 “Purchases of Certain Equity Securities by the Issuertemporary lease and Others”, funded using the Company’s working capital and be based on management’s evaluation of market conditions and other factors.

On July 13, 2016,sub-lease arrangement which expires April 30, 2017 at which time the Company made an additional loan Meadowlands Newmark LLCexpects to vacate the space. In connection with these transactions the Company recognized a gain in the amount of $200,000. Such amount is subject to$1,637,000 during the same terms and conditions as the original loan as discussed in Note 5 to the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

- 1918 -

Two subsidiaries of the Company (“the Ark Subsidiaries”), which operate food courts on Federally protected Indian land, have been involved in litigation with the state in which they operate, whereby the state has attempted to collect commercial rent tax from the Ark Subsidiaries. The Company had continuedis in the process of transferring its lease and the related assets ofCanyon Road located in New York, NY to accrue such taxes as the litigation has worked its way through the courts. During July 2016 the state agreed to the entry of consent judgments in favor of the Ark Subsidiaries holding that the state is constitutionally prohibited from taxing rentals of Indian land.an unrelated third party. In connection with this agreement,pending transfer, the Company has reversed the accrual of these liabilitiesrecognized additional depreciation in the amount of $945,205 as$75,000 for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

Recent Developments

On January 4, 2017, the Company closed its Sequoia property in Washington, DC for a major renovation. The restaurant is expected to re-open in May 2017. In connection with this closure, the Company recognized a loss related to fixed asset disposals in the amount of July 2, 2016. Such reversal$283,000, which is included in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of IncomeDepreciation and Amortization Expenses for the 13 and 39-weeks13-weeks ended July 2, 2016December 31, 2016.

On February 7, 2017, the Company invested an additional $222,000 in NMR as a reductionresult of Occupancy Expenses.a capital call bringing its total investment to $5,108,000.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

The preparation of financial statements requires the application of certain accounting policies, which may require the Company to make estimates and assumptions of future events. In the process of preparing its consolidated condensed financial statements, the Company estimates the appropriate carrying value of certain assets and liabilities, which are not readily apparent from other sources. The primary estimates underlying the Company’s consolidated condensed financial statements include allowances for potential bad debts on accounts and notes receivable, leases, the useful lives and recoverability of its assets, such as property and intangibles, fair values of financial instruments, the realizable value of its tax assets and other matters. Management bases its estimates on certain assumptions, which it believes are reasonable in the circumstances, and actual results could differ from those estimates. Although management does not believe that any change in those assumptions in the near term would have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position or the results of operations, differences in actual results could be material to the consolidated condensed financial statements.

 

The Company’s critical accounting policies are described in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended October 3, 2015.1, 2016. There have been no significant changes to such policies during fiscal 20162017 other than those disclosed in Note 1 to the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

 

Recently Adopted and Issued Accounting Standards

 

See Note 1 to the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements for a description of recent accounting pronouncements, including those adopted in fiscal 20162017 and the expected dates of adoption and the anticipated impact on the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

 

Item 3.     Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

The Company purchases commodities such as chicken, beef, lobster, crabs and shrimp for the Company’s restaurants. The prices of these commodities may be volatile depending upon market conditions. The Company does not purchase forward commodity contracts because the changes in prices for these items have historically been short-term in nature and, in the Company’s view, the cost of the contracts is in excess of the benefits.

 

The Company’s business is also highly seasonal and dependent on the weather. Outdoor seating capacity, such as terraces and sidewalk cafes, is available for dining only in the warm seasons and then only in inclement weather.

 

Item 4.     Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Based on this evaluation, our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of July 2,December 31, 2016 to ensure that all material information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to them as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and that all such information is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

- 19 -

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) that occurred during the thirdfirst quarter of fiscal 20162017 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

- 20 -

Limitations of the Effectiveness of Internal Control

 

A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the internal control system are met. Because of the inherent limitations of any internal control system, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues, if any, within a company have been detected.

- 2120 -

PART II

OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is not subject to pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary claims incidental to its business, which the Company does not believe will materially impact results of operations.

 

Item 1A.   Risk Factors

 

The most significant risk factors applicable to the Company are described in Part I, Item 1A (Risk Factors) of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 20151, 2016 (the “2015“2016 Form 10-K”). There have been no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in the 20152016 Form 10-K. The risks described in the 20152016 Form 10-K are not the only risks facing the Company. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to management may materially adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, and/or operating results.

 

Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

None.

 

Item 3.Defaults upon Senior Securities

 

None.

 

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

 

Item 5.Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.   Exhibits

 

31.1Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  
31.2Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  
32Certificate of Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officers Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

101.INS*XBRL Instance Document
  
101.SCH*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
  
101.CAL*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
  
101.DEF*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
  
101.LAB*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
  
101.PRE*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

 

 

*Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the Interactive Data Files on Exhibit 101 hereto are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, are deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under those sections.

- 2221 -

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:August 16, 2016February 14, 2017
  
 ARK RESTAURANTS CORP.
  
By:/s/ Michael Weinstein
 Michael Weinstein
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
  
By:/s/ Robert J. Stewart
 Robert J. Stewart
 President and Chief Financial Officer
(Authorized Signatory and Principal
Financial and Accounting Officer)
- 2322 -