UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
_____________________________________________________
FORM 10-K
_____________________________________________________
(Mark One)
ý | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the year ended December 31, 2013
OR
¨ | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the transition period from to
Commission file number 001-13393
_____________________________________________________
CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
__________________________________________________________
DELAWARE | 52-1209792 | |
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) | |
1 Choice Hotels Circle, Suite 400, Rockville, Maryland | 20850 | |
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) | (Zip Code) | |
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (301) 592-5000
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Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class | Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered | |
Common Stock, Par Value $0.01 per share | New York Stock Exchange | |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
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Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ¨ No ý
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months. Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ¨
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 (Check one):
Large accelerated filer x | Accelerated filer o | Smaller reporting company o | Non-accelerated filer o | |||
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | ||||||
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act) Yes ¨ No ý
The aggregate market value of common stock of Choice Hotels International, Inc. held by non-affiliates was $1,126,592,712 as of June 30, 2013 based upon a closing price of $39.69 per share.
The number of shares outstanding of Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s common stock at February 14, 2014 was 58,627,712.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE.
Certain portions of our definitive proxy statement, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 8, 2014, are incorporated by reference under Part III of this Form 10-K.
CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Form 10-K
Table of Contents
Page No. | |||
Part I | |||
Item 1. | |||
Item 1A. | |||
Item 1B. | |||
Item 2. | |||
Item 3. | |||
Item 4. | |||
Part II | |||
Item 5. | |||
Item 6. | |||
Item 7. | |||
Item 7A. | |||
Item 8. | |||
Item 9. | |||
Item 9A. | |||
Item 9B. | |||
Part III | |||
Item 10. | |||
Item 11. | |||
Item 12. | |||
Item 13. | |||
Item 14. | |||
Part IV | |||
Item 15. | |||
PART I
Throughout this report, we refer to Choice Hotels International, Inc., together with its subsidiaries as "Choice", "we", "us" or "the Company".
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain matters discussed in this report constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Generally, our use of words such as "expect," "estimate," "believe," "anticipate," "should," "will," "forecast," "plan," "project," "assume" or similar words of futurity identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current beliefs, assumption and expectations regarding future events, which in turn are based on information currently available to management. Such statements may relate to projections of the Company’s revenue, earnings and other financial and operational measures, Company debt levels, ability to repay outstanding indebtedness, payment of dividends, and future operations, among other matters. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements do not guarantee future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors.
Several factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from those expressed in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to, changes to general, domestic and foreign economic conditions; operating risks common in the lodging and franchising industries; changes to the desirability of our brands as viewed by hotel operators and customers; changes to the terms or termination of our contracts with franchisees; our ability to keep pace with improvements in technology utilized for marketing and reservations systems and other operating systems; fluctuations in the supply and demand for hotels rooms; the level of acceptance of alternative growth strategies we may implement; operating risks associated with our international operations; the outcome of litigation; and our ability to effectively manage our indebtedness. These and other risk factors are discussed in detail in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” of this report. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Our SEC filings are available to the public over the internet at the SEC’s web site at http://www.sec.gov. Our SEC filings are also available free of charge on our website at http://www.choicehotels.com as soon as reasonably practicable following the time that they are filed with or furnished to the SEC. You may also read and copy any document we file with the SEC at its public reference room located at 100 F Street, NE Washington DC 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on its public reference room.
Item 1. | Business. |
Overview
We are one of the largest hotel franchisors in the world with 6,340 hotels open and 503 hotels under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development as of December 31, 2013 representing 506,058 rooms open and 38,957 rooms under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in 50 states, the District of Columbia and over 35 countries and territories outside the United States. Choice franchises lodging properties under the following proprietary brand names: Comfort Inn®, Comfort Suites®, Quality®, Clarion®, Sleep Inn®, Econo Lodge®, Rodeway Inn®, MainStay Suites®, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel®, Cambria Suites® and Ascend Hotel Collection® (collectively, the "Choice brands").
We operate in two reportable segments encompassing our hotel franchising business and our SkyTouch Technology ("SkyTouch") division. SkyTouch is a division of the Company that develops and markets cloud-based technology products, including inventory management, pricing and connectivity to third party channels, to hoteliers not under franchise agreements with the Company. SkyTouch's technology products are based on the Company's choiceAdvantage property management system which is utilized by over 5,500 of the Company's franchised hotels. SkyTouch was announced to the public in March 2013 and represents less than 1% and 5% of the Company's total revenues and operating expenses, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2013.
The Company's domestic franchising operations are conducted through direct franchising relationships while its international franchise operations are conducted through a combination of direct franchising and master franchising relationships. With a focus on hotel franchising instead of ownership, we benefit from the economies of scale inherent in the franchising business. The fee and cost structure of our business provides opportunities to improve operating results by increasing the number of franchised hotel rooms and effective royalty rates of our franchise contracts resulting in increased
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initial and relicensing fee revenue, ongoing royalty fees and procurement services revenues. In addition to these revenues, we also collect marketing and reservation system fees to provide support activities for the franchise system. Our operating results can also be improved through our company-wide efforts related to improving property level performance. The Company's hotel franchising business currently has relatively low capital expenditure requirements.
The principal factors that affect the Company’s results are: the number and mix of franchised hotel rooms in the various hotel lodging price categories; growth in the number of hotel rooms under franchise; occupancy and room rates achieved by the hotels under franchise; the effective royalty rate achieved; the level of franchise sales and relicensing activity; and our ability to manage costs. The number of rooms at franchised properties and occupancy and room rates at those properties significantly affect the Company’s results because our fees are based upon room revenues or the number of rooms at franchised hotels. The key industry standard for measuring hotel-operating performance is revenue per available room ("RevPAR"), which is calculated by multiplying the percentage of occupied rooms by the average daily room rate realized. Our variable overhead costs associated with franchise system growth of our established brands have historically been less than incremental royalty fees generated from new franchises. Accordingly, continued growth of our franchise business should enable us to realize benefits from the operating leverage in place and improve operating results.
We are contractually required by our franchise agreements to use the marketing and reservation system fees we collect for system-wide support activities. These expenditures help to enhance awareness and increase consumer preference for our brands. Greater awareness and preference promotes long-term growth in business delivery to our franchisees and increases the desirability of our brands to hotel owners and developers, which ultimately increases franchise fees earned by the Company.
Our Company articulates its mission as a commitment to our franchisees’ profitability by providing them with hotel franchises that strive to generate the highest return on investment of any hotel franchise. We have developed an operating system dedicated to our franchisees’ success that focuses on delivering guests to our franchised hotels and reducing costs for our hotel owners.
Our capital allocation decisions, including capital structure and uses of capital, are intended to maximize our return on invested capital and create value for our shareholders. We believe our strong and predictable cash flows create a strong financial position that provides us a competitive advantage. We maintain a capital structure that generates high financial returns and use our excess cash flow to provide returns to our shareholders primarily through share repurchases, dividends or investing in growth opportunities.
Historically, we have returned value to our shareholders in two primary ways: share repurchases and dividends. In 1998, we instituted a share repurchase program which has generated substantial value for our shareholders. Since the program's inception through December 31, 2013, we have repurchased 45.3 million shares (including 33.0 million prior to the two-for-one stock split effected in October 2005) of common stock at a total cost of $1.1 billion. Considering the effect of the two-for-one stock split, the Company has repurchased 78.3 million shares at an average price of $13.89 per share. At December 31, 2013, we had approximately 1.4 million shares remaining under the current share repurchase authorization. We currently believe that our cash flows from operations will support our ability to complete the current board of directors repurchase authorization and upon completion of the current authorization, our board of directors will evaluate the advisability of additional share repurchases.
The Company commenced paying quarterly dividends in 2004 and in 2012 the Company elected to pay a special cash dividend totaling approximately $600 million. The Company currently maintains the payment of a quarterly dividend on its common shares outstanding of $0.185 per share, however the declaration of future dividends are subject to the discretion of the board of directors. We expect to continue to pay dividends in the future, subject to declaration by our board of directors as well as future business performance, economic conditions, changes in income tax regulations and other factors.
The Company also allocates capital to exploring growth opportunities in business areas that are adjacent or complementary to our core hotel franchising business, which leverage our core competencies and are additive to our franchising business model. The timing and amount of these investments are subject to market and other conditions.
Our direct lodging property real estate exposure is limited to activity in the United States and consists of three company-owned MainStay Suites hotels and three parcels of real estate that the Company has acquired and intends to resell to incent franchise development in strategic markets or to pursue hotel development through joint ventures. In addition, our development activities that involve financing, equity investments and guaranty support to hotel developers create limited additional exposure to the real estate markets.
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The Lodging Industry
Companies participating in the lodging industry primarily do so through a combination of one or more of the three primary lodging industry activities: ownership, franchising and management. A company’s relative reliance on each of these activities determines which drivers most influence its profitability.
• | Ownership requires a substantial capital commitment and involves the most risk but offers high returns due to the owner’s ability to influence margins by driving RevPAR, managing operating expenses and financial leverage. The ownership model has a high fixed-cost structure that results in a high degree of operating leverage relative to RevPAR performance. As a result, profits escalate rapidly in a lodging up-cycle but erode quickly in a downturn as costs rarely decline as fast as revenue. Profits from an ownership model increase at a greater rate from RevPAR growth attributable to average daily rate ("ADR") growth, than from occupancy gains since there are more incremental costs associated with higher guest volumes compared to higher pricing. |
• | Franchisors license their brands to a hotel owner, giving the hotel owner the right to use the brand name, logo, operating practices, and reservations systems in exchange for a fee and an agreement to operate the hotel in accordance with the franchisor’s brand standards. Under a typical franchise agreement, the hotel owner pays the franchisor an initial fee, a percentage-of-revenue royalty fee and a marketing/reservation fee. A franchisor’s revenues are dependent on the number of rooms in its system and the top-line performance of those hotels. Earnings drivers include RevPAR increases, unit growth and effective royalty rate improvement. Franchisors enjoy significant operating leverage in their business model since it typically costs little to add a new hotel franchise to an existing system. Franchisors normally benefit from higher industry supply growth, because unit growth usually outpaces lower RevPAR resulting from excess supply. As a result, franchisors benefit from both RevPAR growth and supply increases which aids in reducing the impact of lodging industry economic cycles. |
• | Management companies operate hotels for owners that do not have the expertise and/or the desire to self-manage. These companies collect management fees predominately based on revenues earned and/or profits generated. Similar to franchising activities, the key drivers of revenue based management fees are RevPAR and unit growth and similar to ownership activities, profit based fees are driven by improved hotel margins and RevPAR growth. |
Similarly to other industries, lodging experiences both positive and negative operating cycles. Positive cycles are characterized as periods of sustained occupancy growth, increasing room rates and hotel development. These cycles usually continue until either the economy sustains a prolonged downturn, excess supply conditions exist or some external factor occurs such as war, terrorism or natural resource shortages. Negative cycles are characterized by hoteliers reducing room rates to stimulate occupancy and a reduction of hotel development. Industry recovery usually begins with an increase in occupancy followed by hoteliers increasing room rates. As demand begins to exceed room supply, occupancies and rates continue to improve. These factors result in increased hotel development.
Hotel room supply growth is cyclical as hotel construction responds to interest rates, construction and material supply conditions, capital availability and industry fundamentals. Historically, the industry has added hotel rooms to its inventory through new construction due largely to favorable lending environments that encouraged hotel development. Typically, hotel development continues during favorable lending environments until the increase in room supply outpaces demand. The excess supply eventually results in lower occupancies, which results in hoteliers reducing room rates to stimulate demand, and reduced hotel development. Over time, the slow growth in hotel supply results in increased occupancy rates and allows hotels to again raise room rates. The increase in occupancy and room rates serves as a catalyst for increased hotel development.
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The following chart demonstrates these trends over the last fifteen years:
US Lodging Industry Trends: 1999 - 2013
Year | Occupancy Rates | Average Daily Room Rates (ADR) | Change in ADR Versus Prior Year | Change in CPI Versus Prior Year | Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) | New Rooms Added (Gross) | ||||||||||||||
1999 | 63.3 | % | $81.27 | 3.4 | % | 2.7 | % | $51.44 | 143,148 | |||||||||||
2000 | 63.5 | % | $85.24 | 4.9 | % | 3.4 | % | $54.13 | 121,476 | |||||||||||
2001 | 60.1 | % | $84.85 | (0.5 | )% | 2.9 | % | $50.99 | 101,279 | |||||||||||
2002 | 59.2 | % | $83.15 | (2.0 | )% | 1.6 | % | $49.22 | 86,366 | |||||||||||
2003 | 59.1 | % | $83.19 | 0.1 | % | 2.3 | % | $49.20 | 65,876 | |||||||||||
2004 | 61.3 | % | $86.41 | 3.9 | % | 2.7 | % | $52.93 | 55,245 | |||||||||||
2005 | 63.1 | % | $90.84 | 5.1 | % | 3.4 | % | $57.34 | 65,900 | |||||||||||
2006 | 63.4 | % | $97.31 | 7.1 | % | 3.2 | % | $61.69 | 73,308 | |||||||||||
2007 | 63.1 | % | $104.04 | 6.9 | % | 2.8 | % | $65.61 | 94,541 | |||||||||||
2008 | 60.3 | % | $106.96 | 2.8 | % | 3.8 | % | $64.49 | 146,312 | |||||||||||
2009 | 54.5 | % | $98.17 | (8.2 | )% | (0.4 | )% | $53.50 | 142,287 | |||||||||||
2010 | 57.5 | % | $98.06 | (0.1 | )% | 1.6 | % | $56.43 | 73,976 | |||||||||||
2011 | 59.9 | % | $101.85 | 3.9 | % | 3.2 | % | $61.02 | 38,409 | |||||||||||
2012 | 61.3 | % | $106.25 | 4.3 | % | 2.1 | % | $65.15 | 43,879 | |||||||||||
2013 | 62.3 | % | $110.35 | 3.9 | % | 1.5 | % | $68.69 | 54,020 | |||||||||||
(Source: Smith Travel Research and US Department of Labor)
As a franchisor, we believe we are well positioned in any stage of the lodging cycle as our fee-for-service business model has historically delivered predictable, profitable, long-term growth in a variety of lodging and economic environments. We have historically benefited from both the RevPAR gains typically experienced in the early stages of recovery, as our revenues are based on our franchisees’ gross room revenues, and the supply growth normally occurring in the later stages as we increase our portfolio size.
The Company’s portfolio of brands offers both new construction and conversion opportunities. Our new construction brands typically benefit from periods of supply growth and favorable capital availability and pricing. Our conversion brands also benefit from periods of supply growth as the construction of hotels increases the need for existing hotels to seek new brand affiliations as their product moves through the hotel life cycle. Furthermore, the Company's conversion brands benefit from lodging cycle downturns as our unit growth has been historically driven from the conversion of independent and other hotel chain affiliates into our system as these hotels endeavor to improve their performance.
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The lodging industry can be divided into chain scale categories or groupings of generally competitive brands as follows:
Chain Scale | Brand Examples | Room Count | % of Total | Avg. No. of Rooms Per Hotel | ||||||
Luxury | Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, W Hotel | 107,007 | 2.2 | % | 340.8 | |||||
Upper Upscale | Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, Sheraton | 560,884 | 11.4 | % | 360.0 | |||||
Upscale | Hilton Garden Inn, Courtyard, Cambria Suites | 612,480 | 12.4 | % | 153.4 | |||||
Upper Midscale | Comfort Inn, Holiday Inn, Hampton Inn | 875,268 | 17.7 | % | 97.7 | |||||
Midscale | Quality, Best Western, Ramada, La Quinta | 473,861 | 9.6 | % | 86.6 | |||||
Economy | Econo Lodge, Days Inn, Super 8, Red Roof Inn | 772,313 | 15.6 | % | 76.1 | |||||
Sub-Total Brand Affiliated | 3,401,813 | 68.9 | % | 111.7 | ||||||
Independents | 1,537,960 | 31.1 | % | 68.2 | ||||||
Total All Hotels | 4,939,773 | 100 | % | 93.2 | ||||||
According to Smith Travel Research, the lodging industry consisted of approximately 53,000 hotels representing 4.9 million rooms open and operating in the United States at December 31, 2013. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the industry added approximately 54,000 gross rooms to the industry supply and net room growth was approximately 0.8%. Approximately, 48% of the new rooms opened during the year were positioned in the Upper Midscale, Midscale and Economy chain scale segments in which we primarily operate. Overall, annual industry room growth remains below historical levels.
The lodging industry consists of independent operators of hotels and those that have joined national hotel franchise chains. Independent operators of hotels not owned or managed by major lodging companies have increasingly joined national hotel franchise chains as a means of remaining competitive with hotels owned by or affiliated with national lodging companies. Over the years, the industry has seen a significant movement of hotels from independent to chain affiliation, with affiliated hotels increasing from 46% of the rooms in the market in 1990 to 69% of the market in 2013. However, the pace of this increase has moderated over the last several years and in 2013 the percentage of rooms in the market affiliated with a chain held steady at 69% as compared to the prior year.
Due to the fact that a significant portion of the costs of owning and operating a hotel are generally fixed, increases in revenues generated by affiliation with a franchise lodging chain can improve a hotel’s financial performance. The large franchise lodging chains, including us, generally provide a number of support services to hotel operators designed to improve the financial performance of their properties including central reservation and property management systems, marketing and advertising programs, training and education programs, revenue enhancement services and relationships with qualified vendors to streamline purchasing processes and make lower cost products available. We believe that national franchise chains with a large number of hotels enjoy greater brand awareness among potential guests than those with fewer hotels, and that greater brand awareness can increase the desirability of a hotel to its potential guests. Furthermore, we believe that hotel operators choose lodging franchisors based primarily on the perceived value and quality of each franchisor’s brand and its services, and the extent to which affiliation with that franchisor may increase the hotel operator profitability.
Choice’s Franchising Business
Choice operates primarily as a hotel franchisor offering 11 brands. This family of well-known and diversified new construction and conversion brands competes at various hotel consumer and developer price points.
Economics of Franchising Business. The fee and cost structure of our business provides opportunities for us to improve operating results by increasing the number of franchised hotel rooms, improving RevPAR performance and increasing the effective royalty rates of our franchise contracts. As a hotel franchisor, we derive our revenue primarily from various franchise fees. Our franchise fees consist primarily of an initial fee and ongoing royalty, marketing and reservation system fees that are typically based on a percentage of the franchised hotel’s gross room revenues. The initial fee and on-going royalty portion of the franchise fees are intended to cover our operating expenses, such as expenses incurred in business development, quality assurance, administrative support, certain franchise services and to provide us with operating profits. The marketing and
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reservation system fees are used for the expenses associated with marketing, media, advertising, providing a central reservation system, property management systems, e-commerce initiatives and certain franchise services.
Our fee stream depends on the number of rooms in our system, the gross room revenues generated by our franchisees and effective royalty rates under our franchise contracts. We enjoy significant operating leverage since the variable operating costs associated with the franchise system growth of our established brands have historically been less than incremental royalty fees generated from new franchises. We believe that our business is well positioned in the lodging industry since we benefit from both increases in RevPAR and unit growth from new hotel construction or conversion of existing hotel assets into our system.
Our family of well-known and diversified brand offerings positions us well within the lodging industry. Our Cambria Suites, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Sleep Inn, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel and MainStay Suites are primarily new build brands which offer hotel developers an array of choices at various price points for transient and extended stay business during periods of supply growth. Our Ascend Hotel Collection, Clarion, Quality, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands offer conversion opportunities during both industry contraction and growth cycles to independent operators and non-Choice affiliated hotels who desire to affiliate with our brands and take advantage of the services we have to offer.
Strategy. Our mission is a commitment to franchisee profitability by providing our franchisees with hotel franchises that strive to generate the highest return on investment of any hotel franchise. Our business strategy is to create franchise system growth by leveraging Choice’s large and well-known hotel brands, franchise sales capabilities, effective marketing and reservation delivery efforts, training and education programs, RevPAR enhancing services and technologies and financial strength created by our significant free cash flow. We believe our brands’ growth will be driven by our ability to create a compelling return on investment for franchisees. Our strategic objective is to improve profitability of our franchisees by providing services which increase business delivery, reduce hotel operating and development costs, and/or improve guest satisfaction. Specific elements of our strategy include: building strong brands, delivering exceptional services, reaching more consumers and leveraging our size, scale and distribution to reduce costs for hotel owners. We believe that by focusing on these elements we can increase the gross room revenues generated by our franchisees by increasing the business delivered to existing franchisees and expanding our market share of franchised hotels in the chain scale segments in which we operate or seek to operate. Improving the desirability of our brands should also allow us to continue to improve the effective royalty rate of our contracts.
Building Strong Brands. Each of our brands has particular attributes and strengths, including awareness with both consumers and developers. Our strategy is to utilize the strengths of each brand for room growth, RevPAR gains and royalty rate improvement that create revenue growth. We believe brand consistency, brand quality and guest satisfaction are critical in improving brand performance and building strong brands.
We have multiple brands that are positioned to meet the needs of many types of guests. These brands can be developed at various price points and are suitable for both new construction properties and existing hotels. This flexibility ensures that we have brands suitable for creating room growth in various types of markets, with various types of customers, and during both industry contraction and growth cycles. During times of lower industry supply growth and tighter capital markets, we can target conversions of existing non-Choice affiliated hotels seeking the awareness and proven performance provided by our brands. During periods of strong industry supply growth, we expect a greater portion of our room growth to come from our new construction brands. We believe that a large number of markets can still support our hotel brands and that the growth potential for our brands remains strong.
We strive to maintain the strength of our brands by enhancing product consistency and quality. We attempt to achieve consistency and quality for new entrants into the franchise system by placing prospective hotels in the appropriate brand based on the physical characteristics, performance and amenities of the hotel and by requiring property improvement plans, when necessary, to ensure the new hotel meets the quality standards of the brand. Furthermore, we may require hotels currently in our franchise system to execute property improvement plans at specified contractual windows to ensure that they continue to maintain the product consistency and quality standards of the brand.
We believe each of our brands appeals to targeted hotel owners and guests because of unique brand standards, marketing campaigns, loyalty programs, reservation delivery, service levels and pricing.
Delivering Exceptional Services. We provide a combination of services and technology based offerings to help our franchisees improve performance. We have field services staff members located nationwide that help franchisees improve RevPAR performance and guest satisfaction. In addition, we provide our franchisees with education and training programs as well as technology products designed to improve property level performance. These services and products promote revenue gains for franchisees and improve guest satisfaction which translate into both higher royalties for the Company and improved returns for owners, leading to further room growth by making our brands even more attractive to prospective franchisees. We
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develop our services based on customer needs and focus on activities that generate high return on investment for our franchisees.
Reaching More Consumers. We believe hotel owners value and benefit from the large volume of guests we deliver through a mix of activities including brand marketing, reservation systems, key account sales, and the Company’s loyalty program, Choice Privileges®. Our strategy is to maximize the effectiveness of these activities in delivering both leisure and business travelers to Choice-branded hotels.
The Company intends to continue to increase awareness of its brands through its national marketing campaigns and its Choice Privileges loyalty program promotions. These campaigns are intended to generate a compelling message to consumers to create even greater awareness for our brands with the ultimate goal of driving business through our central reservation system. Local and regional co-op marketing campaigns will continue to be utilized to leverage the national marketing programs to drive business to our franchised properties at a local level. We expect our efforts at marketing directly to individual guests will continue to be enhanced through the use of our customer relationship management technology and programs. Our continued focus on overall brand quality coupled with our marketing initiatives is designed to stimulate room demand for our franchised hotels through improved guest awareness and satisfaction.
Our central reservations system is a critical technology used to deliver guests to our franchisees through multiple channels, including our call centers, proprietary web and mobile sites, global distribution systems (e.g., SABRE and Amadeus), on-line travel agents ("OTAs") (e.g. Expedia and Bookings.com) and internet referral or booking services (i.e. Kayak and Trip Advisor). We believe our well-known brands, combined with our relationships with many internet distribution web sites benefits our franchisees, by facilitating increased rate and reservations delivery, and reducing costs and operational complexity.
Leveraging Size, Scale and Distribution. We continually focus on identifying methods for utilizing the significant number of hotels in our system to reduce costs and increase returns for our franchisees. For example, we create relationships with qualified vendors to: (i) make low-cost products available to our franchisees; (ii) streamline the purchasing process; and (iii) maintain brand standards and consistency. We plan to expand these relationships and identify new methods for decreasing hotel-operating costs by increasing penetration within our existing franchise system and enhancing our existing vendor relationships and/or creating new vendor relationships. We believe our efforts to leverage the Company’s size, scale and distribution benefit the Company by enhancing brand quality and consistency, improving our franchisees returns and satisfaction, and creating procurement services revenues.
Franchise System
Revenues from our domestic operations comprised 92% of our total revenues in both 2013 and 2012. As a result, our description of the franchise system is primarily focused on the domestic operations.
Our standard domestic franchise agreements grant franchisees the non-exclusive right to use certain of our trademarks and receive other benefits of our franchise system to facilitate the operation of their franchised hotel at a specified location. The majority of our standard domestic franchise agreements are 10 to 20 years in duration with certain rights for each of the franchisor and franchisee to terminate their franchise agreement, such as upon designated anniversaries of the agreement, before the 20th (or 10th, as applicable) year. Our franchisees operate domestically under one of eleven Choice brand names: Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Cambria Suites, Quality, Clarion, Ascend Hotel Collection, Sleep Inn, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn, MainStay Suites and Suburban Extended Stay Hotel.
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The following table presents key statistics related to our domestic franchise system over the five years ended December 31, 2013.
COMBINED DOMESTIC FRANCHISE SYSTEM
As of and For the Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 4,906 | 4,993 | 5,001 | 5,083 | 5,180 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 388,594 | 393,535 | 392,826 | 396,102 | 400,585 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 196,406 | $ | 206,049 | $ | 220,047 | $ | 235,502 | $ | 242,315 | |||||||||
Average royalty rate(1) | 4.25 | % | 4.29 | % | 4.32 | % | 4.33 | % | 4.33 | % | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage(1) | 49.4 | % | 51.3 | % | 53.5 | % | 55.5 | % | 56.3 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR)(1) | $ | 71.24 | $ | 70.50 | $ | 71.83 | $ | 73.60 | $ | 74.76 | |||||||||
Revenue per available room (RevPAR)(1),(2) | $ | 35.18 | $ | 36.18 | $ | 38.44 | $ | 40.84 | $ | 42.08 | |||||||||
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(1) | Amounts exclude results from Cambria Suites properties open during all periods since the operating statistics are not representative of a stabilized brand which the Company defines as having at least 25 units open and operating for a twelve month period. |
(2) | The Company calculates RevPAR based on information as reported to the Company by its franchisees. |
According to Smith Travel Research, the total rooms open and operating in the United States at December 31, 2013 totaled approximately 4.9 million rooms of which 8.1% were affiliated with Choice's brands. Choice branded system-wide United States market share as of December 31, 2013 has increased 16 basis points over the past 5 years representing a cumulative annual growth rate of 1.4% compared to the total industry domestic growth rate of 1.0%.
Currently, no individual domestic franchisee accounts for more than 2% of the Company's total revenues.
Industry Positioning
Our brands offer consumers and developers a wide range of options, including economy hotels, mid-scale, upper mid-scale and lower upscale, full service properties. Our brands are as follows:
Cambria Suites: Cambria Suites is a new construction select service hotel chain with an upscale image and distinctive styling. Cambria offers well-appointed suites that emulate the “best of a modern home.” In-room amenities include luxury bedding, stereo with CD player, cordless phone and mini-refrigerator with microwave. Principal competitor brands include Courtyard by Marriott and Hilton Garden Inn. The Cambria Suites brand was launched in January 2005 and the first properties opened during 2007.
Ascend Hotel Collection: Ascend Hotel Collection is an innovative membership program that is not positioned as a traditional franchise concept. The Ascend Hotel Collection includes individual properties that are historic, boutique and/or unique and desire to retain their independent brand identity but have access to Choice’s marketing and distribution channels. The Ascend Hotel Collection offers the best of both worlds: independence backed up by a powerful global distribution network. Principal competitors include Sterling Hotels, Summit Hotel & Resorts, Small Luxury Hotels and Historic Hotels of America. The Ascend Collection membership was launched in October 2008.
Comfort Inn: Comfort Inn and Comfort Inn and Suites hotels are primarily upper mid-scale limited service hotels that offer a warm and welcoming guest experience designed to help travelers rest and refresh for the next day. One of the original brands in the limited service category, Comfort has built a reputation for consistent high-value accommodations for both business and leisure travelers. Comfort offers complimentary hot breakfast with fresh waffles, a swimming pool and/or exercise room, and free high-speed internet access. Principal competitor brands include Holiday Inn Express and Country Inn & Suites.
Comfort Suites: An extension of the highly regarded Comfort Inn brand, Comfort Suites hotels have a focus on meeting the needs of the business traveler. Hotels are 100% smoke free and rooms are oversized with separate areas for working and sleeping. In addition, each room features a sleeper sofa, refrigerator and microwave. Comfort Suites hotels offer a complimentary hot breakfast and free high-speed internet access, as well as a marketplace with snacks, mini-meals and beverages for purchase. The brand competes with Hampton and Fairfield Inn.
Sleep Inn: Sleep Inn is a new construction brand that operates in the moderate tier of the mid-scale lodging category, offering developers a lower cost to build with competitive mid-scale average daily rates. Sleep Inn delivers a stylish, contemporary guest experience, providing both business and leisure travelers with free high-speed internet access, an exercise
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room and/or pool and a complimentary Morning Medley breakfast. Sleep Inn’s principal competitors include Microtel and La Quinta.
Clarion: Clarion helps owners of existing mid-scale assets with food and beverage capabilities achieve strong returns with reasonable investment. Clarion allows a more focused and efficient food and beverage operational model that works well with a variety of conversion property configurations. Clarion helps business and leisure guests "get together" by providing meeting/banquet facilities with catering, hot breakfast, a simplified menu of basic evening meals and lounge with at least beer and/or wine selections. Amenities include a pool, business center, free high-speed internet access and fitness center. Principal competitor brands include Four Points by Sheraton and Radisson.
Quality: Quality helps both guests and owners "get your money's worth" in the mid-scale category. Quality hotels provide clean, comfortable, and affordable accommodations, as well as the "Value Qs:" Q Bed, Q Breakfast, Q Shower, Q Service, and the Q Value of free high-speed internet access, a swimming pool and/or an exercise room and free newspaper. Principal competitor brands include Best Western and Ramada.
MainStay Suites: MainStay Suites compete in the mid-scale extended stay category. Complete with a "feels like home guest experience" and value-added amenities, the MainStay brand is designed as a more practical lodging option for guests whose stays are longer than a few nights. Typically, longer hotel stays involve relocation, training, or temporary job assignments. MainStay guest rooms feature free high-speed internet access, fully equipped kitchens with a two-burner range, dishes, utensils, dishwasher, sink with disposal, microwave, and full size refrigerator. All suites include a sleeper sofa, comfortable work area with ergonomic chair and large walk-in closets. MainStay Suites' principal competitors include TownePlace Suites and Candlewood Suites.
Suburban Extended Stay Hotel: Suburban Extended Stay Hotel suites are built with today’s value-conscious extended stay guest in mind. All suites provide kitchens, internet connections, and access to on-site laundry facilities. Suburban’s “just what you need” philosophy matches attractive weekly pricing with weekly housekeeping to provide extended stay guests with the all-suite accommodations they want without the cost of services they do not need. All hotels offer complimentary high-speed internet access. Principal competitors include Extended Stay America, InTown Suites, Studio 6 and Value Place.
Econo Lodge: Econo Lodge is the premier brand in the economy hotel category that is an easy stop on the road for value-oriented travelers. Free high speed internet, a premium movie channel and complimentary continental breakfast are just some of the amenities that position Econo Lodge as a great value in the economy category. The brand competes primarily with Days Inn, Super 8 and Red Roof Inn.
Rodeway Inn: Rodeway Inn is a brand also operating in the economy hotel category that offers sensible lodging for travelers on a budget. As part of one of the largest franchise systems in the world, Rodeway offers a welcoming environment at an affordable rate. With free coffee to get guests started in the morning, free high-speed internet and a free premium movie channel, Rodeway is a great option for practical travelers. Principal competitor brands include Americas Best Value Inn and Motel 6.
The following table presents key statistics related to the domestic system for our brands over the five years ended December 31, 2013:
As of and For the Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||||||||||
COMFORT INN DOMESTIC SYSTEM | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 1,447 | 1,435 | 1,399 | 1,349 | 1,302 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 113,633 | 112,169 | 109,330 | 105,471 | 101,673 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 80,059 | $ | 82,233 | $ | 86,107 | $ | 90,313 | $ | 88,738 | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage | 54.1 | % | 55.6 | % | 57.5 | % | 59.4 | % | 59.9 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR) | $ | 77.10 | $ | 77.21 | $ | 79.41 | $ | 81.55 | $ | 83.21 | |||||||||
RevPAR | $ | 41.74 | $ | 42.93 | $ | 45.62 | $ | 48.42 | $ | 49.87 | |||||||||
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COMFORT SUITES DOMESTIC SYSTEM | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 608 | 623 | 616 | 597 | 589 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 47,301 | 48,246 | 47,738 | 46,045 | 45,451 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 35,134 | $ | 38,100 | $ | 41,934 | $ | 44,764 | $ | 44,650 | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage | 53.3 | % | 55.2 | % | 58.6 | % | 61.7 | % | 62.8 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR) | $ | 84.79 | $ | 82.48 | $ | 83.72 | $ | 85.47 | $ | 86.89 | |||||||||
RevPAR | $ | 45.17 | $ | 45.53 | $ | 49.09 | $ | 52.74 | $ | 54.53 | |||||||||
QUALITY DOMESTIC SYSTEM | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 979 | 1,012 | 1,047 | 1,152 | 1,223 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 89,336 | 89,185 | 91,502 | 98,078 | 101,143 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 33,725 | $ | 35,749 | $ | 38,032 | $ | 42,073 | $ | 47,208 | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage | 46.0 | % | 48.1 | % | 50.0 | % | 51.6 | % | 53.0 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR) | $ | 68.00 | $ | 66.81 | $ | 67.75 | $ | 69.46 | $ | 70.19 | |||||||||
RevPAR | $ | 31.31 | $ | 32.11 | $ | 33.86 | $ | 35.85 | $ | 37.17 | |||||||||
CLARION DOMESTIC SYSTEM | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 172 | 192 | 189 | 191 | 190 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 24,636 | 28,711 | 27,527 | 27,441 | 27,501 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 8,549 | $ | 8,948 | $ | 9,708 | $ | 10,252 | $ | 10,949 | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage | 42.2 | % | 43.7 | % | 46.9 | % | 49.4 | % | 50.9 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR) | $ | 77.79 | $ | 75.15 | $ | 73.89 | $ | 74.94 | $ | 75.20 | |||||||||
RevPAR | $ | 32.86 | $ | 32.86 | $ | 34.64 | $ | 37.03 | $ | 38.30 | |||||||||
SLEEP INN DOMESTIC SYSTEM | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 392 | 398 | 394 | 387 | 382 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 28,599 | 28,957 | 28,568 | 28,087 | 27,623 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 14,614 | $ | 15,050 | $ | 15,838 | $ | 17,114 | $ | 17,442 | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage | 51.5 | % | 51.6 | % | 53.6 | % | 56.3 | % | 58.5 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR) | $ | 69.64 | $ | 68.82 | $ | 69.96 | $ | 72.40 | $ | 74.35 | |||||||||
RevPAR | $ | 35.86 | $ | 35.52 | $ | 37.49 | $ | 40.77 | $ | 43.46 | |||||||||
MAINSTAY SUITES DOMESTIC SYSTEM | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 37 | 37 | 40 | 41 | 43 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 2,866 | 2,868 | 3,093 | 3,165 | 3,331 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 1,607 | $ | 1,715 | $ | 2,018 | $ | 2,235 | $ | 2,240 | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage | 57.9 | % | 63.6 | % | 67.7 | % | 70.4 | % | 68.0 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR) | $ | 70.55 | $ | 65.60 | $ | 66.16 | $ | 69.34 | $ | 72.46 | |||||||||
RevPAR | $ | 40.82 | $ | 41.71 | $ | 44.80 | $ | 48.81 | $ | 49.27 | |||||||||
ECONO LODGE DOMESTIC SYSTEM | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 792 | 784 | 797 | 817 | 830 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 48,996 | 48,728 | 49,483 | 49,951 | 50,694 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 15,025 | $ | 15,068 | $ | 15,655 | $ | 16,463 | $ | 17,174 | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage | 43.5 | % | 45.8 | % | 47.5 | % | 48.5 | % | 48.7 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR) | $ | 54.66 | $ | 54.10 | $ | 54.71 | $ | 55.78 | $ | 56.56 | |||||||||
RevPAR | $ | 23.78 | $ | 24.80 | $ | 25.96 | $ | 27.05 | $ | 27.52 | |||||||||
RODEWAY INN DOMESTIC SYSTEM | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 372 | 387 | 388 | 410 | 438 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 21,392 | 21,261 | 21,627 | 23,370 | 24,677 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 3,819 | $ | 4,257 | $ | 4,541 | $ | 5,103 | $ | 5,325 | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage | 43.0 | % | 45.8 | % | 48.7 | % | 50.8 | % | 51.6 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR) | $ | 52.48 | $ | 51.07 | $ | 51.87 | $ | 53.36 | $ | 54.25 | |||||||||
RevPAR | $ | 22.54 | $ | 23.38 | $ | 25.27 | $ | 27.13 | $ | 27.96 | |||||||||
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SUBURBAN EXTENDED STAY HOTEL DOMESTIC SYSTEM | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 61 | 64 | 60 | 63 | 63 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 7,416 | 7,685 | 7,126 | 7,291 | 7,167 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 2,275 | $ | 2,353 | $ | 2,537 | $ | 2,697 | $ | 2,815 | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage | 56.3 | % | 63.8 | % | 67.5 | % | 69.7 | % | 70.1 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR) | $ | 41.51 | $ | 39.23 | $ | 40.26 | $ | 41.61 | $ | 42.67 | |||||||||
RevPAR | $ | 23.35 | $ | 25.03 | $ | 27.15 | $ | 29.01 | $ | 29.91 | |||||||||
CAMBRIA SUITES DOMESTIC SYSTEM (1) | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 18 | 23 | 19 | 19 | 18 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 2,073 | 2,700 | 2,215 | 2,221 | 2,119 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 920 | $ | 1,447 | $ | 2,022 | $ | 2,099 | $ | 2,133 | |||||||||
ASCEND HOTEL COLLECTION DOMESTIC SYSTEM | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 28 | 38 | 52 | 57 | 102 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 2,346 | 3,025 | 4,617 | 4,982 | 9,206 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 679 | $ | 1,129 | $ | 1,655 | $ | 2,389 | $ | 3,641 | |||||||||
Average occupancy percentage | 49.4 | % | 57.6 | % | 60.3 | % | 64.4 | % | 64.3 | % | |||||||||
Average daily room rate (ADR) | $ | 115.97 | $ | 112.50 | $ | 113.59 | $ | 113.33 | $ | 120.97 | |||||||||
RevPAR | $ | 57.24 | $ | 64.81 | $ | 68.44 | $ | 72.94 | $ | 77.82 | |||||||||
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(1) | Statistics for average occupancy percentage, ADR and RevPAR have been excluded for years in which the brand statistics are not representative of a stabilized brand which the Company defines as having at least 25 units open and operating for a twelve month period. |
International Franchise Operations
The Company conducts its international franchise operations through a combination of direct franchising and master franchising relationships. Master franchising relationships are governed by master franchising agreements that generally provide the master franchisee with the right to use and sub-license the use of our brands in a specific geographic region, usually for a fee.
Our business philosophy has been to conduct direct franchising in those international markets where both franchising is an accepted business model and we believe our brands can achieve significant distribution. We typically elect to enter into master franchise agreements in those markets where direct franchising is currently not a prevalent or viable business model. When entering into master franchising relationships, we strive to select partners that have professional hotel and asset management capabilities together with the financial capacity to invest in building the Choice brands in their respective markets. Master franchising relationships typically provide lower revenues to the Company as the master franchisees are responsible for managing certain necessary services (such as training, quality assurance, reservations and marketing) to support the franchised hotels in the master franchise area and therefore retain a larger percentage of the hotel franchise fees to cover their expenses. In certain circumstances, the Company has and may continue to make equity investments in our master franchisees.
As a result of our use of master franchising relationships and international market conditions, revenues from international franchising operations comprised 8% of our total revenues in both 2013 and 2012 while representing approximately 18% and 19% of our franchise system hotels open at both December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
In some territories outside the United States hotel franchising is less prevalent, and many markets are served primarily by independent operators. We believe that chain and franchise affiliation will increase in certain international markets as local economies grow and hotel owners seek the economies of centralized reservations systems and marketing programs. We believe that international franchise operations will provide a significant long-term growth opportunity for the Company and as a result we have embarked on a multi-year investment in information technology and marketing which is expected to enhance the value proposition for prospective international franchisees.
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As of December 31, 2013, we had 1,160 franchise hotels open and operating in over 30 countries and territories outside of the United States. The following chart summarizes our franchise system outside of the United States.
COMBINED INTERNATIONAL FRANCHISE SYSTEM(1)
As of and For the Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||||||||||
Number of properties, end of period | 1,115 | 1,149 | 1,177 | 1,160 | 1,160 | ||||||||||||||
Number of rooms, end of period | 98,816 | 101,610 | 104,379 | 103,151 | 105,473 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty fees ($000) | $ | 19,351 | $ | 21,647 | $ | 25,175 | $ | 25,066 | $ | 24,711 | |||||||||
____________________________
(1) | Reporting of operating statistics (e.g., average occupancy percentage and average daily room rate) of international franchisees is not required by all master franchise contracts, thus these statistics and RevPAR are not presented for international franchisees. |
Scandinavia. We conduct our operations in Scandinavia through a master franchise relationship with Nordic Choice Commercial Services A/S ("NCH"), formerly known as Choice Hotels Scandinavia. As of December 31, 2013, NCH had 171 open properties in its development territory, which includes Denmark, Norway and Sweden on an exclusive basis and Latvia and Lithuania on a non-exclusive basis. The Company’s master franchise agreement with NCH grants rights to the Comfort, Quality, Sleep and Clarion brand and expires in 2023. Through a separate agreement signed in 2010, we have also granted NCH limited rights to franchise Ascend Hotel Collection hotels in its territory.
Japan. The Company conducts its operations in Japan through a master franchise relationship with Choice Hotels Japan Co. Ltd ("CHJ"). CHJ possesses exclusive rights to develop the Comfort and Quality brands and non-exclusive rights to the Sleep and Clarion brands. The Company’s master franchise agreement with CHJ expires in December 2023. As of December 31, 2013, CHJ had 52 open properties.
Continental Europe. The Company conducts franchising operations in Germany, Italy, Czech Republic, and portions of Switzerland through Choice Hotels Licensing B.V. ("Choice BV"), a wholly-owned subsidiary, and in France, Portugal and the French speaking Cantons of Switzerland through a wholly-owned subsidiary of Choice BV, Choice Hotels France SAS. At December 31, 2013, the Company's subsidiaries had 186 properties open and operating in continental Europe.
Ireland. In August 2007, the Company entered into a master franchising agreement with Ireland-based Cordelle Enterprises, doing business as Choice Hotels Ireland ("CHR"), for the exclusive right to develop our Clarion, Quality and Comfort brands in Ireland and Northern Ireland. The master franchise agreement with CHR expires in 2027. As of December 31, 2013, CHR had 10 properties open and operating in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
United Kingdom. The Company conducts direct franchising operations in the United Kingdom through Choice BV. At December 31, 2013, the Company’s subsidiary had 44 properties open and operating in the United Kingdom.
Canada. We conduct our operations in Canada for all of our brands except Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites and Suburban Extended Stay Hotel through Choice Hotels Canada Inc. ("CHC") a joint venture owned 50% by us and 50% by InnVest Management Holdings Ltd. CHC is one of the largest lodging organizations in Canada with 310 of our franchised properties open and operating as of December 31, 2013. The Company conducts direct franchising operations for its extended stay and Cambria Suites brands in Canada through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Choice Hotels International Licensing ULC, and had 3 properties open and operating at December 31, 2013.
India. The Company conducts direct franchising operations in India through wholly-owned subsidiaries for the Comfort, Quality, Sleep and Clarion brands. As of December 31, 2013, the Company had 24 franchised properties open and operating.
Australasia. The Company conducts direct franchising operations in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore through a wholly-owned subsidiary, Choice Hotels Australasia Pty. Ltd. ("CHA"). As of December 31, 2013, CHA had 256 franchised properties open and operating in Australasia.
Mexico. The Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary Choice Hotels Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V. ("CHM") conducts direct franchising operations in Mexico on behalf of Choice BV, which acts as the franchisor in Mexico. CHM is focused on
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establishing Clarion, Quality, Sleep and Comfort brands through conversion of hotels in Mexico. At December 31, 2013, the Company’s subsidiary had 22 properties open and operating.
South America. We conduct our operations in Brazil and certain other South American territories through a non-exclusive master franchise relationship with Atlantica Holdings International, Ltd. ("Atlantica"). As of December 31, 2013, Atlantica had 62 open properties in its development territory. The Company’s master franchise agreement with Atlantica grants rights to the Comfort, Quality, Sleep and Clarion brands. The agreement was executed in 2001 and has a term of twenty years with certain rights by both parties to terminate the contract early.
Central America. We conduct our operations in certain Central American territories through an exclusive master franchise relationship with Real Hotels and Resorts, Inc. ("Real"). As of December 31, 2013, Real had 14 open properties in its development territory which consists of Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Panama. The Company’s master franchise agreement with Real grants rights to the Comfort, Quality, Sleep and Clarion brands. The agreement was executed in 1994 and has a term of twenty years. Through a separate agreement signed in 2011, we have also granted Real limited non-exclusive rights to franchise Ascend Hotel Collection hotels in Costa Rica, Honduras and Panama.
Other International Relationships. We also have non-exclusive master development and area representative arrangements in place with local hotel management and franchising companies doing business in China. In addition, the Company has direct franchise relationships with properties in Malaysia and Jordan.
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The following table summarizes Choice’s non-domestic franchise system as of December 31, 2013:
Comfort | Comfort Suites | Quality | Clarion | Sleep | Ascend | Mainstay | Suburban | Econo Lodge | Rodeway | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Australia | 122 | — | 66 | 6 | — | 3 | — | — | 23 | — | 220 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Canada | — | — | — | — | — | — | 2 | 1 | — | — | 3 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Czech Republic | — | — | — | 9 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 9 | |||||||||||||||||||||
France | 71 | 3 | 30 | 7 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 111 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Germany | 18 | — | 15 | 3 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 36 | |||||||||||||||||||||
India | 10 | — | 11 | 3 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 24 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Italy | 5 | — | 9 | 6 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 20 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Jordan | — | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Malaysia | — | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Mexico | 11 | — | 11 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 22 | |||||||||||||||||||||
New Zealand | 10 | — | 17 | — | — | 1 | — | — | 7 | — | 35 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Portugal | 3 | — | 2 | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 6 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Singapore | — | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Switzerland | 3 | — | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 4 | |||||||||||||||||||||
United Kingdom | 18 | — | 20 | 6 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 44 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Direct Franchise Agreements | 271 | 3 | 184 | 42 | — | 4 | 2 | 1 | 30 | — | 537 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Brazil | 19 | 7 | 27 | 4 | 5 | — | — | — | — | — | 62 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Canada* | 148 | 4 | 85 | 6 | 3 | 7 | — | — | 54 | 3 | 310 | |||||||||||||||||||||
China | 2 | 1 | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 4 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Costa Rica | — | — | 1 | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | 2 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Denmark | — | — | 1 | 1 | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | 3 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Dominican Republic | — | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
El Salvador | 2 | — | 1 | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 4 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Guatemala | — | — | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Honduras | — | — | — | 5 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 5 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Ireland | — | — | 3 | 6 | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | 10 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Japan | 51 | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 52 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Latvia | — | — | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Lithuania | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Norway | 17 | — | 39 | 27 | — | 2 | — | — | — | — | 85 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Panama | — | — | — | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Sweden | 11 | — | 28 | 36 | — | 6 | — | — | — | — | 81 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Master Franchise Agreements | 251 | 12 | 188 | 89 | 9 | 17 | — | — | 54 | 3 | 623 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total Number of Properties | 522 | 15 | 372 | 131 | 9 | 21 | 2 | 1 | 84 | 3 | 1,160 | |||||||||||||||||||||
____________________________
* | The Company has a 50% equity investment in this master franchisor. |
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The following table presents key worldwide system size statistics as of and for the year ended December 31, 2013:
Open and Operational | Approved for Development | Units | ||||||||||||||||||
Hotels | Rooms | Hotels | Rooms | Additions | Repositionings | Terminations | ||||||||||||||
Comfort | 1,824 | 141,220 | 120 | 9,528 | 55 | (37 | ) | (80 | ) | |||||||||||
Comfort Suites | 604 | 47,375 | 55 | 4,187 | 15 | (2 | ) | (21 | ) | |||||||||||
Quality | 1,595 | 139,703 | 71 | 5,724 | 122 | 36 | (81 | ) | ||||||||||||
Ascend Hotel Collection | 123 | 12,196 | 22 | 1,894 | 53 | 4 | (6 | ) | ||||||||||||
Clarion | 321 | 44,888 | 22 | 2,479 | 32 | (3 | ) | (28 | ) | |||||||||||
Sleep Inn | 391 | 28,518 | 55 | 3,579 | 13 | (5 | ) | (13 | ) | |||||||||||
MainStay Suites | 45 | 3,549 | 36 | 2,491 | 2 | — | — | |||||||||||||
Econo Lodge | 914 | 54,434 | 32 | 1,860 | 65 | 3 | (53 | ) | ||||||||||||
Rodeway Inn | 441 | 24,800 | 39 | 1,748 | 55 | 6 | (33 | ) | ||||||||||||
Suburban | 64 | 7,256 | 26 | 2,224 | 3 | (2 | ) | (2 | ) | |||||||||||
Cambria Suites | 18 | 2,119 | 25 | 3,243 | 1 | — | (2 | ) | ||||||||||||
Totals | 6,340 | 506,058 | 503 | 38,957 | 416 | — | (319 | ) | ||||||||||||
Franchise Sales
Brand growth is important to our business model. We have identified key market areas for hotel development based on supply/demand relationships and our strategic objectives. Development opportunities are typically offered to: (i) existing franchisees; (ii) developers of hotels; (iii) owners of independent hotels and motels; (iv) owners of hotels leaving other franchisors’ brands; and, (v) franchisees of non-hotel related products such as restaurants.
Our franchise sales organization is structured to support the Company’s efforts to leverage its core strengths in order to take advantage of opportunities for further growth. The franchise sales organization employs both sales managers as well as franchise sales directors. This organization emphasizes the benefits of affiliating with the Choice system, our commitment to improving hotel profitability, our central reservation delivery services, our marketing and customer loyalty programs, our training and support systems (including our proprietary property management systems) and our Company’s track record of growth and profitability to potential franchisees. Franchise sales directors are assigned to specific brands to leverage their brand expertise to enhance product consistency and deal flow. Our sales managers ensure each prospective hotel is placed in the appropriate brand, facilitate teamwork and information sharing amongst the sales directors and provide better service to our potential franchisees. The structure of this organization supports the Company’s efforts to leverage its core strengths in order to take advantage of opportunities for further growth. Integrating our brands and strategies allow our brand teams to focus on understanding, anticipating and meeting the unique needs of our customers.
Our objective is to continue to grow our portfolio by continuing to sell our existing brands, creating extensions of our existing brands and introducing new brands, either organically or via acquisition, within the various lodging chain categories. Based on market conditions and other circumstances, we may offer certain incentives to developers to increase development of our brands such as discounting various fees such as the initial franchise fee and royalty rates as well as provide financing for property improvements and other purposes.
Because retention of existing franchisees is important to our growth strategy, we have a formal impact policy. This policy offers existing franchisees protection from the opening of a same-brand property within a specified distance, depending upon the market in which the property is located.
Investment, Financing and Guaranty Franchisee Support
Our board of directors authorized a program which permits us to offer financing, investment, and guaranty support to qualified franchisees as well as allows us to acquire and resell real estate to incent franchise development for certain brands in strategic markets. We expect to deploy capital pursuant to this program opportunistically to promote growth of our emerging brands. The amount and timing of the investment in this program will be dependent on market and other conditions. Our current expectation is that our annual investment in this program will range from $20 million to $40 million per year and we generally expect to recycle these investments within a five year period. However, our actual investment in this program will be dependent on market and other conditions.
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Franchise Agreements
Our standard domestic franchise agreements grant franchisees the non-exclusive right to use certain of our trademarks and receive other benefits of our franchise system to facilitate the operation of their franchised hotel at a specified location. Our standard domestic franchise agreements generally have terms ranging between 10 and 20 years, with certain rights for each of the franchisor and franchisee to terminate their franchise agreement, such as upon designated anniversaries of the agreement, before the 20th (or 10th, as applicable) year.
The Company may also enter into master development agreements with developers that grant limited exclusive development rights in geographical areas and preferential franchise agreement terms for one-time, non-refundable fees. These agreements typically grant developers exclusivity in various markets and favorable franchise agreement terms provided that they adhere to an agreed upon development schedule.
Either party to our standard domestic franchise agreement can terminate the agreement prior to the conclusion of the agreement’s term under certain circumstances, such as upon designated anniversaries of the agreement, subject to applicable law. Early termination options give us flexibility in eliminating or re-branding properties for reasons other than contractual failure by the franchisee. This allows us the opportunity to strengthen our brand portfolio in various markets by replacing weaker performing hotels. We also have the right to terminate a franchise agreement if a franchisee fails to bring the property into compliance with contractual or quality standards within specified periods of time. The franchise agreements also typically contain liquidated damage provisions which represent a fair measure of compensation that our franchisee and we agree should be paid to us upon a specific breach of the franchise agreement. Master franchise agreements typically contain provisions permitting us to terminate the agreement for failure to meet a specified development schedule.
When the responsibility for development is transferred to an international master franchisee, that party has the responsibility to develop and grow our brands in the master franchise area. Additionally, the master franchisee generally must manage the delivery of certain necessary services (such as training, quality assurance, reservations and marketing) to support the franchised hotels in the master franchise area. The master franchisee collects the fees paid by the local franchisee and remits an agreed upon share to us. Master franchise agreements generally have a term of at least 10 years. We have only entered into master franchise agreements with respect to franchised hotels outside the United States.
Franchise agreements are individually negotiated and vary among the different Choice brands and franchises, but generally are competitive with the industry average within their market group. Franchise fees usually have three primary components: an initial, one-time affiliation fee; a royalty fee; and a marketing and reservation system fee.
Our standard franchise fees are as follows:
QUOTED FEES BY BRAND AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2013
Brand | Initial Fee Per Room/Minimum | Royalty Fees | Marketing and Reservation System Fee | ||||
Cambria Suites | $500/$60,000 | 5.00 | % | 4.00 | % | ||
Comfort Inn | $500/$50,000 | 5.65 | % | 3.85 | % | ||
Comfort Suites | $500/$50,000 | 5.65 | % | 3.85 | % | ||
Quality Inn | $300/$35,000 | 4.65 | % | 3.85 | % | ||
Ascend Hotel Collection | $375/$30,000 | 4.00 | % | 2.50 | % | ||
Clarion | $300/$40,000 | 4.25 | % | 3.25 | % | ||
Sleep Inn | $300/$40,000 | 4.65 | % | 3.85 | % | ||
MainStay Suites | $300/$30,000 | 5.00 | % | 2.50 | % | ||
Econo Lodge | $250/$25,000 | 4.50 | % | 3.50 | % | ||
Rodeway Inn | $125/$10,000 | (1 | ) | (2 | ) | ||
Suburban Extended Stay Hotel | $225/$30,000 | 5.00 | % | 2.50 | % | ||
____________________________
(1) | Royalty rate is $33.00 per room per month. |
(2) | Marketing and reservation system fees are $13.00 per room per month. |
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As previously noted, the Company’s franchise agreements are individually negotiated and therefore actual fees may differ from those noted above. From time to time, the Company may discount the standard royalty fees in the initial years of the agreement as a franchisee acquisition tactic. Typically, these discounts expire as the contract matures until the contractual royalty fees reach the standard franchise fee in effect at the time the agreement was executed.
Franchise Operations
Our operations are designed to improve RevPAR and lower operating and development costs for our franchisees, as these are the measures of performance that most directly impact franchisee profitability. We believe that by helping our franchisees become more profitable we will enhance our ability to both retain our existing franchisees and attract new franchisees. The key aspects of our franchise operations are:
Brand Name Marketing and Advertising. Our hotels are typically located in areas conveniently accessible to business and leisure travelers and therefore approximately two-thirds of our hotel room nights are sold to guests who either walk-in or contact the hotel directly. As a result, we believe that brand name recognition and the strength of the brand reputation are important factors in influencing business and leisure traveler hotel accommodation choices.
Our marketing and advertising programs are designed to heighten consumer awareness and preference for our brands as offering the greatest value and convenience in the lodging categories in which we compete. Marketing and advertising efforts include national television, internet and radio advertising, on-line advertising, print advertising in consumer and trade media and promotional events, including joint marketing promotions with qualified vendors and corporate partners. We also actively seek to maximize our presence on the internet by purchasing key search related terms from the various search engine providers to ensure that our hotels are prominently displayed to all potential guests.
Numerous marketing and sales programs are conducted which target specific groups, including business travelers, senior citizens, automobile club members, families, government and military employees, educational organizations and meeting planners. Other marketing efforts include domestic and international trade show programs, publication of group and tour rate directories, direct-mail programs, electronic direct marketing e-mail programs, centralized commissions for travel agents, fly-drive programs in conjunction with major airlines, and the publication of electronic travel and vacation directories.
We operate a loyalty program, Choice Privileges, for all of the Choice brands to attract and retain travelers by rewarding frequent stays with points towards free hotel stays and other rewards. Choice Privileges participants earn points redeemable for free stays in Choice brand properties. The Company also offers guests the ability to earn airline miles for qualifying stays redeemable for flights with various airline partners as well as redeem points for gift certificates at participating retailers. These programs allow us to conduct lower cost, more targeted marketing campaigns to our consumers, deliver incremental business to our franchised hotels and are an important selling point for our franchise sales personnel. Choice Privileges members contribute approximately a third of the Company’s domestic gross room revenues and the program had more than 19 million members worldwide as of December 31, 2013. Growing the membership of the Choice Privileges program will continue to be a focus of the Company.
Marketing and advertising programs are directed by our marketing department, which utilizes the services of independent advertising agencies. We also employ home-based sales personnel geographically located across the United States using personal sales calls, telemarketing and other techniques to target specific customer groups, such as potential corporate clients in areas where our franchised hotels are located, the motor coach market, and meeting planners.
Our field based brand performance consultants work with franchisees to maximize RevPAR. These coordinators advise franchisees on topics such as marketing their hotels, improving quality and maximizing the benefits offered by the Choice reservations system. Our proprietary property management system includes a rate and selling management tool to help our franchisees better manage rates and inventory which should help them improve RevPAR by optimizing ADR and occupancy. In addition, we have recently added revenue management services to our service offerings to assist franchisees in maximizing their room rates.
Central Reservation System ("CRS"). On average, approximately one-third of the gross room revenue booked at domestic franchised properties is reserved through our central reservation system, which consists of our toll-free telephone reservation system, our proprietary internet site, mobile phone and tablet reservation applications, interfaces with global distribution systems, and other internet reservations sites. We strive to improve the percentage of business delivered by our CRS as room nights reserved through these channels are typically at higher average daily rates than reservations booked directly through the property. In addition, increasing the percentage of business delivered through the CRS improves our value proposition to a hotel owner and therefore assists in retention of existing and acquisition of new franchisees.
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Our CRS provides a data link to our franchised properties as well as to airline reservation systems such as Amadeus, Galileo, SABRE and Worldspan that facilitate the reservation process for travel agents and corporate travelers. We also offer our rooms for sale on our own proprietary internet site (www.choicehotels.com) and mobile and tablet devices as well as those of OTAs and other third-party internet referral or booking services.
Our toll-free telephone reservation system primarily utilizes third party call center service providers. Reservation agents trained on the reservation system can match each caller with a Choice-branded hotel meeting the caller’s needs. We also operate a call forwarding program through which our franchisees can leverage our central reservation system capabilities by forwarding reservation calls received directly by the property to one of our reservation centers. Typically, this reduces the hotel’s front desk staffing needs, improves customer service and results in a higher average daily rate than reservations booked directly through the property.
We continue to implement our integrated reservation and distribution strategy to improve reservations delivery, reduce franchisee costs and improve franchisee satisfaction by enhancing our website, choicehotels.com. We also design our marketing campaigns to drive reservation traffic directly to our proprietary channels to minimize the impact that third party reservation sites may have on the pricing of our inventory. In addition, we have introduced programs such as our Best Internet Rate Guarantee program which has greatly reduced the ability of the travel intermediaries to undercut the published rates at our hotels. We do selectively distribute our inventory to key third party travel intermediaries that we have established agreements with to drive additional business to the Company and its brands. These agreements typically offer our brands preferred placement on these third party sites at reduced transaction fees. We also continue to educate our individual franchisees about the unfavorable impact to their business of contracting with sites with which we do not have preferred agreements. We currently have agreements with many but not all major online third party sites.
Property Management Systems. Our proprietary property and yield management system, choiceADVANTAGE, is designed to help franchisees maximize profitability and compete more effectively by managing their room inventory, rates and reservations. choiceADVANTAGE synchronizes each hotel’s inventory with our central reservation system, giving our reservation sales agents last room sell capabilities at every hotel. Our property management system also includes a revenue management feature that calculates and suggests optimum rates based on each hotel’s past performance and projected occupancy. These tools are critical to business delivery and yield improvement as they facilitate a franchisees’ ability to effectively manage hotel operations, determine appropriate rates, drive occupancy and participate in our marketing programs. As a pure web-based solution, the choiceADVANTAGE system reduces each hotel’s investment in on-site computer equipment resulting in a lower total cost of ownership for property management systems than traditional on-site solutions.
Quality Assurance Programs. Consistent quality standards are critical to the success of a hotel franchise. We have established quality standards for all of our franchised brands that cover housekeeping, maintenance, brand identification and minimum service offerings. We inspect properties for compliance with our quality standards when application is made for admission to the franchise system. The compliance of existing franchisees with quality standards is monitored through scheduled and unannounced quality assurance reviews conducted periodically at the property and through the use of guest surveys. Properties that fail to maintain a minimum score are reinspected on a more frequent basis until deficiencies are cured, or until such properties are terminated. To encourage compliance with quality standards, various brand-specific incentives and awards are used to reward franchisees that maintain consistent quality standards. We identify franchisees whose properties operate below minimum quality standards and assist them to comply with brand specifications. Franchisees who fail to improve on identified quality matters may be subject to consequences ranging from written warnings, the payment of quality re-inspection and guest satisfaction fines, attendance at mandatory training programs and ultimately to the termination of the franchise agreement. Actual consequences, if any, are determined in the Company’s discretion on a case-by-case basis and may take into account a variety of factors apart from a franchisee’s level of compliance with our quality standards and brand specifications.
Training. We maintain a training department that conducts mandatory training programs for all franchisees and their employees. Regularly scheduled regional and national training meetings are also conducted for both property-level staff and managers. Training programs teach franchisees how to best use the Choice reservation system and marketing programs and fundamental hotel operations.
Training is conducted by a variety of methods, including group instruction seminars and on-line programs. We have also developed an interactive computer-based training system that will train hotel employees at their own pace.
Opening Services. We maintain an opening services department that ensures incoming hotels meet or exceed brand standards and are properly displayed in our various reservation distribution systems to ensure that each incoming hotel opens successfully. We also maintain a design and construction department to assist franchisees in refurbishing, renovating, or
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constructing their properties prior to or after joining the system. Department personnel assist franchisees in meeting our brand specifications by providing technical expertise and cost-savings suggestions.
Competition
Competition among franchise lodging chains is intense in attracting potential franchisees, retaining existing franchisees and generating reservations for franchisees. Franchise contracts are typically long-term in nature, but most allow the hotel owner to opt-out of the agreement at mutually agreed upon anniversary dates.
We believe that hotel operators choose lodging franchisors based primarily on the value and quality of each franchisor’s brand(s) and services and the extent to which affiliation with that franchisor may increase the franchisee’s reservations and profits. We also believe that hotel operators select a franchisor in part based on the franchisor’s reputation among other franchisees and the success of its existing franchisees.
Since our franchise system revenues are based on franchisees’ gross room revenues, our prospects for growth are largely dependent upon the ability of our franchisees to compete in the lodging market, our ability to convert competitor franchises and independent hotels to our brands and the ability of existing and potential franchisees to obtain financing to construct new hotels.
The ability of a hotel to compete may be affected by a number of factors, including the location and quality of the property, the number and quality of competing lodging facilities nearby, its affiliation with a recognized name brand and general regional and local economic conditions. We believe the effect of local economic conditions on our results is substantially reduced by our range of products and room rates and the geographic diversity of our franchised properties, which are open and operating in 50 states, the District of Columbia and over 30 countries and territories outside the United States.
We believe that our focus on core business strategies, combined with our financial strength and size, geographic diversity, scale and distribution will enable us to remain competitive.
Service Marks and Other Intellectual Property
The service marks Choice Hotels International, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Clarion, Sleep Inn, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn, MainStay Suites, Cambria Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection, Choice Privileges, SkyTouch Technology and related marks and logos are material to our business. We, directly and through our franchisees, actively use these marks. All of the material marks are registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. In addition, we have registered certain of our marks with the appropriate governmental agencies in over 100 countries where we are doing business or anticipate doing business in the foreseeable future. We seek to protect our brands and marks throughout the world, although the strength of legal protection available varies from country to country. Depending on the jurisdiction, trademarks and other registered marks are valid as long as they are in use and/or their registrations are properly maintained and they have not been found to have become generic.
Seasonality
The hotel industry is seasonal in nature. For most hotels, demand is lower in December through March than during the remainder of the year. Our principal source of revenues is franchise fees based on the gross room revenues of our franchised properties. The Company’s franchise fee revenues and operating income reflect the industry’s seasonality and historically have been lower in the first quarter than in the second, third or fourth quarters.
Regulation
The Federal Trade Commission (the "FTC"), various states and certain other foreign jurisdictions (including Australia, France, Canada, and Mexico) regulate the sale of franchises. The FTC requires franchisors to make extensive disclosure to prospective franchisees but does not require registration. A number of states in which our franchisees operate require registration and disclosure in connection with franchise offers and sales. In addition, several states have "franchise relationship laws" that limit the ability of the franchisor to terminate franchise agreements or to withhold consent to the renewal or transfer of these agreements. While our franchising operations have not been materially adversely affected by such regulations, we cannot predict the effect of future regulation or legislation.
Our franchisees are responsible for compliance with all laws and government regulations applicable to the hotels they own or operate. The lodging industry is subject to numerous federal, state and local government regulations, including those relating to the preparation and sale of food and beverage (such as health and liquor license laws), building and zoning requirements and laws governing employee relations, including minimum wage requirements, overtime, working conditions and work permit requirements.
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Impact of Inflation and Other External Factors
Franchise fees can be impacted by external factors including, in particular, the supply of hotel rooms within the lodging industry relative to the demand for rooms by travelers and inflation.
We expect to benefit in the form of increased franchise fees from future growth in consumer demand for hotel rooms as well as growth in the supply of hotel rooms, to the extent it does not result in excess lodging industry capacity. However, a prolonged decline in demand for hotel rooms would negatively impact our business.
Although we believe that increases in the rate of inflation will generally result in comparable increases in hotel room rates, severe inflation could contribute to a slowing of the national economy. Such a slowdown could result in reduced travel by both business and leisure travelers, potentially resulting in less demand for hotel rooms, which could result in a reduction in room rates and fewer room reservations, negatively impacting our revenues. A weak economy could also reduce demand for new hotels, negatively impacting the franchise fees received by us.
Among other unpredictable external factors, which may negatively impact us, are wars, acts of terrorism, airline strikes, gasoline shortages, severe weather and the risks described below under the Item 1A. Risk Factors.
SkyTouch Technology
SkyTouch TechnologyTM ("SkyTouch") is a division of the Company that develops and markets cloud-based technology products to hoteliers not under franchise agreements with the Company to improve their efficiency and profitability. The SkyTouch Hotel OS™ solution is based on the Company’s award-winning, proprietary technology platform, choiceADVANTAGE, that was first introduced over a decade ago to meet the needs of its franchisees. The SkyTouch Hotel OS solution offers many of the same functions of the choiceADVANTAGE property and rate management platform, including managing reservations, guest stays and rates on any device with an Internet connection as well as the ability to connect seamlessly with other systems used by chain and independent hotels. The system has been enhanced to add distribution management services, and offers central reservation system interfaces utilizing hotel technology next generation specifications for ease of deployment and partnership with other technology providers.
The SkyTouch platform also includes a mobile-native interface that offers fast and secure mobile functionality to the major elements of property management and housekeeping. The interface includes quick, mobile-friendly views of key operational data such as ADR, Occupancy, Availability for Tonight, helping improve management efficiency. Housekeeping functionality allows real-time, two-way communication between staff that helps improve the guest experience. Developed with a responsive design and an adaptable mobile support strategy, the interface is optimized as a true cloud-based application for smart phones and tablets, while still accessible from desktops.
SkyTouch also provides onsite and remote installation and training, and 24/7/365 phone support to our clients. SkyTouch’s online training includes simulation-based, highly interactive eLearning modules with the option to modify and create additional content to meet the needs of hoteliers.
The hotel property management system market is highly competitive and we compete on various bases, including product functionality, service capabilities, price, and geography. We compete with companies that have several hotel related software products, as well as companies that offer a single product or service aimed at a particular niche. In addition, our products and services compete with room reservation systems developed and marketed by major hotel chains for their corporate-owned operations and franchisees.
Employees
We employed approximately 1,088 people in our domestic operations as of February 14, 2014. None of our employees are represented by unions or covered by collective bargaining agreements. We consider our relations with our employees to be good.
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EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
The name, age, title, present principal occupation, business address and other material occupations, positions, offices and employment of each of the executive officers of the Company as of December 31, 2013 are set forth below. The business address of each executive officer is 1 Choice Hotels Circle, Suite 400, Rockville, Maryland 20850.
Name | Age | Position | |
Stewart W. Bainum, Jr. | 67 | Chairman of the Board of Directors | |
Stephen P. Joyce | 53 | President and Chief Executive Officer | |
David L. White | 45 | Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer | |
Patrick S. Pacious | 47 | Chief Operating Officer | |
Simone Wu | 49 | Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary & Chief Compliance Officer | |
Alexandra Jaritz | 40 | Senior Vice President, Brand Strategy & Marketing | |
David A. Pepper | 46 | Senior Vice President, Global Development | |
Patrick J. Cimerola | 45 | Senior Vice President, Human Resources and Administration | |
Scott E. Oaksmith | 42 | Controller | |
Stewart W. Bainum, Jr. Director from 1977 to 1996 and since 1997. Chairman of the Board of Choice Hotels International, Inc., from March 1987 to November 1996 and since October 1997; Director of the Board of Realty Investment Company, Inc., a real estate management and investment company, since December 2005 and Chairman from December 2005 through June 2009; Director of the Board of Sunburst Hospitality Corporation, a real estate developer, owner and operator, since November 1996 and Chairman from November 1996 through June 2009. He was a director of Manor Care, Inc., from September 1998 to September 2002, serving as Chairman from September 1998 until September 2001. From March 1987 to September 1998, he was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Manor Care, Inc. He served as President of Manor Care of America, Inc., and Chief Executive Officer of ManorCare Health Services, Inc., from March 1987 to September 1998, and as Vice Chairman of Manor Care of America, Inc., from June 1982 to March 1987.
Stephen P. Joyce. President & Chief Executive Officer since June 2008 and President & Chief Operating Officer from May 2008 until June 2008. Prior to joining the Company, he was employed by Marriott International as Executive Vice President, Global Development/Owner and Franchise Services from 2005 until 2008 and Executive Vice President, Owner and Franchise Services/North American Full Service Development from 2003 until 2005.
David L. White. Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer since December 2007. He was Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer from September 2006 to December 2007; Vice President, Finance & Controller of Choice from December 2002 to September 2006; and was Vice President, Financial/SEC Reporting from September 2002 to December 2002. He was Senior Manager, Ernst & Young, LLP from May 2002 to September 2002. He was employed by Arthur Andersen LLP as Senior Manager from May 1999 to May 2002, and manager from October 1998 to May 1999. He served as Assistant Controller for the energy marketing division of Statoil Energy, Inc. from May 1997 to September 1998.
Patrick S. Pacious. Chief Operating Officer effective January 1, 2014. He was Executive Vice President, Global Strategy & Operations from February 2011 through December 2013. He was Senior Vice President Corporate Strategy and Information Technology from August 2009 to February 2011. He was Senior Vice President, Corporate Development and Strategy from December 2007 to August 2009. He was Vice President, Corporate Development and Innovation from May 2006 to December 2007 and was Senior Director of Corporate Strategy from July 2005 to May 2006. Prior to joining the Company, he was employed by Bearingpoint Inc. as a Senior Manager from 2002 until 2005 and Arthur Andersen Business Consulting LLP as a Senior Manager from 1996 until 2002.
Simone Wu. Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary & Chief Compliance Officer since joining the company in February 2012. Prior to joining the Company, she was employed by XO Communications and its affiliates as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary from 2011 until 2012, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary from 2006 to 2011, Vice President, the acting General Counsel and Secretary from 2005 to 2006, Vice President and Assistant General Counsel from 2004 until 2005, and Senior Corporate Counsel from 2001 until 2004. Before that she was Vice President of Legal and Business Affairs at LightSource Telecom, held legal and business positions at MCI and AOL, and began her legal career in 1989 at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom.
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Alexandra Jaritz. Senior Vice President, Brand Strategy & Marketing since June 2011. She was Senior Vice President of Brand Planning from September 2010 to June 2011; Vice President, Brand Planning & Management from March 2008 to September 2010; Vice President, Brand Strategy from October 2007 to March 2008; Vice President, Property Level Performance from January 2007 to October 2007; Vice President, Development Operations from December 2005 to January 2007; Senior Director, Brand Strategy from February 2004 to December 2005 and Director, Strategic Planning from July 2001 to February 2004.
David A. Pepper. Senior Vice President, Global Development since October 2009. He was Senior Vice President, Franchise Development & Emerging Brands from July 2007 to October 2009. He was Senior Vice President and Division President Cambria Suites and Extended Stay Market Brands from January 2007 to July 2007 and was Senior Vice President, Franchise Growth and Performance of Choice from December 2005 until January 2007. He was Senior Vice President, Development of Choice from January 2005 until December 2005. He was Vice President, Franchise Sales from June 2002 until January 2005. He was Vice President, Franchise Sales with USFS in Atlanta, Georgia from 1996 through June 2002.
Patrick J. Cimerola. Senior Vice President, Human Resources and Administration since September 2009. He was Vice President of Human Resources from January 2003 to September 2009. He was Sr. Director of Human Resources from January 2002 to January 2003.
Scott E. Oaksmith. Controller of the Company since September 2006. He was Senior Director & Assistant Controller of Choice from February 2004 to September 2006. He was Director, Marketing and Reservations, Finance from October 2002 until February 2004. Prior to joining the Company, he was employed by American Express Tax & Business Services, Inc. from January 1994 to October 2002, last serving as Senior Manager from October 2000 to October 2002.
Item 1A. | Risk Factors. |
Choice Hotels International, Inc. and its subsidiaries are subject to various risks, which could have a negative effect on the Company and its financial condition. These risks could cause actual operating results to differ from those expressed in certain “forward looking statements” contained in this Form 10-K as well as in other Company communications. Before you invest in our securities you should carefully consider these risk factors together with all other information included in our publicly filed documents.
We are subject to the operating risks common in the lodging and franchising industries.
A significant portion of our revenue is derived from fees based on room revenues at hotels franchised under our brands. As such, our business is subject, directly or through our franchisees, to the following risks common in the lodging and franchising industry, among others:
• | changes in the number of hotels operating under franchised brands; |
• | changes in the relative mix of franchised hotels in the various lodging industry price categories; |
• | changes in occupancy and room rates achieved by hotels; |
• | desirability of hotel geographic location; |
• | changes in general and local economic and market conditions, which can adversely affect the level of business and leisure travel, and therefore the demand for lodging and related services; |
• | level of consumer unemployment; |
• | increases in operating costs that may not be able to be offset by increases in room rates; |
• | increases in corporate-level operating costs resulting in lower operating margins; |
• | over-building in one or more sectors of the hotel industry and/or in one or more geographic regions, could lead to excess supply compared to demand, and to decreases in hotel occupancy and/or room rates; |
• | the availability and cost of capital to allow hotel owners and developers to build new hotels and fund investments; |
• | changes in travel patterns; |
• | travelers’ fears of exposure to contagious diseases or insect infestations in hotel rooms; |
• | changes in governmental regulations that influence or determine wages, benefits, prices or increase operating, maintenance or construction costs of our franchisees; |
• | travel restrictions (whether security-related or otherwise) imposed by governmental authorities that have the effect of discouraging or limiting travel to and from certain jurisdictions; |
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• | the costs and administrative burdens associated with compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including, among others, franchising, lending, privacy, marketing and sales, licensing, labor, climate change, employment and regulations applicable under the Office of Foreign Asset Control and the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act; |
• | other unpredictable external factors, such as acts of God, war, terrorist attacks, pandemics, epidemics, airline strikes, transportation and fuel price increases, natural disasters, and severe weather may reduce business and leisure travel or reduce the number of hotels open and operating within our system; |
• | the financial condition of franchisees and travel related companies; |
• | franchisors’ ability to develop and maintain positive relations with current and potential franchisees; and |
• | changes in exchange rates or sustained economic weakness in the United States (affecting domestic travel) and internationally could also unfavorably impact future results. |
Acquisition and development of new brands and markets.
From time-to-time, we consider acquisitions of new brands that complement our current portfolio of brands as well as expansion of our brands in international markets. In many cases, we will be competing for these opportunities with third parties who may have substantially greater financial resources or different or lower acceptable return requirements than we do. There can be no assurance that we will be able to identify acquisition candidates, acceptable new markets or complete transactions on commercially reasonable terms or at all. If transactions are consummated or new markets entered, there can be no assurance that any anticipated benefits will actually be realized. Similarly, there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain additional financing for acquisitions or investments, or that the ability to obtain such financing will not be restricted by the terms of our existing debt agreements.
We have recently developed and launched additional hotel brands, such as Cambria Suites and Ascend Collection, and may develop and launch additional brands in the future. In addition, we plan to expand the distribution of existing brands in international markets. There can be no assurance regarding the level of acceptance of these brands in the development and consumer marketplaces, that costs incurred to develop the brands or expand in international markets (including advances for system services we provide) will be recovered or that the anticipated benefits from these new brands or markets will be realized.
We are subject to risks relating to acts of God, terrorist activity, epidemics and war.
Our financial and operating performance may be adversely affected by acts of God, such as natural disasters and/or pandemics, epidemics, terrorist activities and acts of war affecting locations where we have a high concentration of franchisees and areas of the world from which our franchisees draw a large number of guests. Some types of losses, such as from terrorism and acts of war, may be either uninsurable or too expensive to justify insuring against. Should an uninsured loss or a loss in excess of insured limits occur, our results from operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.
We may not grow our franchise system or we may lose business by failing to compete effectively.
Our success and growth prospects depend on the strength and desirability of our brands. We believe that hotel operators choose lodging franchisors based primarily on the value and quality of each franchisor’s brand and services, the extent to which affiliation with that franchisor may increase the hotel operator’s reservations and profits, and the franchise fees charged. Demographic, economic or other changes in markets may adversely affect the desirability of our brands and, correspondingly, the number of hotels franchised under the Choice brands.
We compete with other lodging companies for franchisees. As a result, the terms of new franchise agreements may not be as favorable as our current franchise agreements. For example, competition may require us to reduce or change fee structures, make greater use of financial incentives such as loans and guarantees to acquire franchisees and/or reduce the level of property improvements required before operating under our brand names. This could potentially impact our margins negatively. New competition may also emerge using different business models with a lesser reliance on franchise fees. In addition, an excess supply of hotel rooms or unfavorable borrowing conditions may discourage potential franchisees from expanding or constructing new hotels, thereby limiting a source of growth of the franchise fees received by us.
In addition, each of our hotel brands competes with major hotel chains in national and international markets and with independent companies in regional markets. Our ability to remain competitive and to attract and retain business and leisure travelers depends on our success in distinguishing our products and services from those offered by our competitors. If we are unable to compete successfully in these areas, this could adversely affect our market share and our results of operations.
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We may have disputes with the owners of our franchised hotels or their representative franchisee associations.
Our responsibilities under our franchise agreements may be subject to interpretation and may give rise to disagreements in some instances. Such disagreements may be more likely when hotel returns are depressed as a result of economic conditions. We seek to resolve any disagreements in order to develop and maintain positive relations with current and potential hotel owners as well as their representative franchisee associations. However, failure to resolve such disagreements could result in litigation with outcomes that may be adverse to our economic interests.
We may not achieve our objectives for growth in the number of franchised hotels.
The number of properties and rooms franchised under our brands significantly affects our results. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in achieving our objectives with respect to growing the number of franchised hotels in our system or that we will be able to attract qualified franchisees. The growth in the number of franchised hotels is subject to numerous risks, many of which are beyond the control of our franchisees or us. Among other risks, the following factors affect our ability to achieve growth in the number of franchised hotels:
• | the ability of our franchisees to open and operate additional hotels profitably. Factors affecting the opening of new hotels, or the conversion of existing hotels to a Choice brand, include, among others: |
• | the availability of hotel management, staff and other personnel; |
• | the cost and availability of suitable hotel locations; |
• | the availability and cost of capital to allow hotel owners and developers to fund investments; |
• | cost effective and timely construction of hotels (which construction can be delayed due to, among other reasons, availability of financing, labor and materials availability, labor disputes, local zoning and licensing matters, and weather conditions); and |
• | securing required governmental permits. |
• | our ability to continue to enhance our reservation, operational and service delivery systems to support additional franchisees in a timely, cost-effective manner; |
• | our formal impact policy, which offers franchisees protection from the opening of a same-brand property within a specified distance; |
• | the effectiveness and efficiency of our development organization; |
• | our failure to introduce new brands that gain market acceptance; |
• | our dependence on our independent franchisees’ skills and access to financial resources necessary to open the desired number of hotels; and |
• | our ability to attract and retain qualified domestic and international franchisees. |
In addition, we are currently planning to expand our international operations in many of the markets where we currently operate, as well as in selected new markets. This may require considerable management time as well as start-up expenses for market development before any significant revenues and earnings are generated. Operations in new foreign markets may achieve low margins or may be unprofitable, and expansion in existing markets may be affected by local economic and market conditions. Therefore, as we expand internationally, we may not experience the operating margins we expect, our results of operations may be negatively impacted and our stock price may decline.
Instability in the credit markets may impact the ability of our franchisees to expand or construct new locations.
Our growth strategy relies on the ability of our franchisees to expand or open new franchises and to operate those franchises on a profitable basis. Delays or failures in opening new locations could materially and adversely affect our planned growth. During periods of credit market instability or when real estate values decline, credit and liquidity concerns increase as well as loan default rates. As a result, lenders will reduce their willingness to make new loans and tighten their credit requirements. Many of our franchisees depend on the availability of financing to refinance existing indebtedness, to expand and or renovate existing locations or construct and open new hotels. If our franchisees experience difficulty in obtaining adequate financing for these purposes, our growth strategy and franchise revenues may be adversely affected during these periods.
Development activities that involve our co-investment or financing and guaranty support for third parties may result in exposure to losses.
As a result of our program to make financial support available to developers in the form of loans, credit support, such as guarantees, and equity investments, we are subject to investment and credit risks that we would not otherwise be exposed to as a franchisor. In particular, when we make loans to franchisees, agree to provide loan guarantees for the benefit of franchisees, or make equity investments in franchisees, we are subject to all generally applicable credit and investment risks, such as
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(1) construction delays, cost overruns, or acts of God such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods or fires that may increase overall project costs or result in project cancellations; (2) the possibility that the parties with which we have entered into a co-investment, financing or guaranty relations could become bankrupt or otherwise lack the financial resources to meet their obligations, or could have or develop business interests, policies or objectives that are inconsistent with ours; and (3) that the conditions within credit or capital markets may limit the ability of franchisees to raise additional debt or equity that may be required for completion of projects. In addition to general credit and capital markets risks, we face specific risks stemming from our ability to assess the existing and future financial strength of the franchisee and its principals, the development/construction abilities of the franchisee, the expected performance of the hotel in light of the forecasted general, regional and market-specific economic climate, and the ability to negotiate for, value, and if necessary collect security for our loans or obligations. If we do not accurately assess these risks, our assumptions used to make these estimates prove inaccurate, or situations in the credit market or hospitality industry change in a manner we did not anticipate, our loans and investments may become impaired and/or we may be required to make payment under guarantees we have issued. In such instances, there is no assurance that we will be able to recover any or all of such impaired or paid amounts, in which case we will experience losses which could be material.
Development activities that involve our investment in real estate to stimulate the development of new brands may result in exposure to losses.
The Company has engaged in a program to identify real estate for potential developers to acquire and be utilized for Cambria Suites development. The Company’s intent is to identify potential development sites so that developers may acquire the site and commence construction of a Cambria Suites. However, in certain circumstances, the Company has acquired the real estate prior to identifying a potential developer for the project. As a result, we are subject to the investment risk that we would not otherwise be exposed to as a franchisor. In particular, we face specific risks stemming from (1) our ability to assess the fair market value of the real estate; (2) the location’s suitability for development as a Cambria Suites; (3) the availability of zoning or other local approvals needed for development; and (4) the availability and pricing of capital. Although we actively seek to minimize these risks prior to acquiring real estate, there is no assurance that we will be able to recover the costs of our investments in which case we will experience losses which could be material.
Investing through joint ventures decreases our ability to manage risk.
We have invested, and expect to continue to invest in real estate and other hospitality related joint ventures. Joint venturers often have shared control over the operation of the joint venture assets and therefore these investments may involve risks such as the possibility that the co-venturer in an investment might become bankrupt or not have the financial resources to meet its obligations, or have economic or business interests or goals that are inconsistent with our business interests or goals. Consequently, actions by a co-venturer might subject us to additional risk or result in actions that are inconsistent with our business interests or goals.
Under certain circumstances our franchisees may terminate our franchise contracts.
We franchise hotels to third parties pursuant to franchise agreements. These agreements may be terminated, renegotiated or expire but typically have an initial term of either ten or twenty years. These agreements also typically contain provisions permitting either party to terminate the franchise agreement after five, ten or fifteen years under certain circumstances and depending on the particular hotel brand that is licensed to the franchisee. While our franchise agreements provide for liquidated damages to be paid to us by franchisees whose agreements have been terminated as the result of a violation of the provisions of the agreement, these damage amounts are typically less than the fees we would have received if the terminated franchisee fulfilled its contractual obligations. In addition, there can be no assurance that we will be able to replace expired or terminated franchise agreements, or that the provisions of renegotiated or new agreements will be as favorable as the provisions that existed before such expiration, replacement or renegotiation. As a result, our revenues could be negatively impacted.
Deterioration in the general financial condition of our franchisees may adversely affect our results.
Our operating results are impacted by the ability of our franchisees to generate revenues at properties they franchise from us. An extended period of occupancy or room rate declines may adversely affect the operating results and financial condition of our franchisees. These negative operating conditions could result in the financial failure of our owners and result in a termination of the franchisee for non-payment of franchise fees or require the transfer of ownership of the franchise. In those instances where ownership is transferred, there can be no assurance that the new owners will choose to affiliate with our brands.
The hotel industry is highly competitive. Competition for hotel guests is based primarily on the level of service, quality of accommodations, convenience of locations and room rates. Our franchisees compete for guests with other hotel properties in
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their geographic markets. Some of their competitors may have substantially greater marketing and financial resources than our franchisees, and they may construct new facilities or improve their existing facilities, reduce their prices or expand and improve their marketing programs in ways that adversely affect our franchisees' operating results and financial condition. In addition, the ability of our franchisees to compete for guests directly impacts the desirability of our brands to current and prospective franchisees.
These factors, among others, could adversely affect the operating results and financial condition of our franchisees and result in declines in the number of franchised properties and/or franchise fees and other revenues derived from our franchising business. In addition, at times, the Company provides financial support to our franchisees via notes and guarantees. Factors that may adversely affect the operating results and financial condition of these franchisees may result in the Company incurring losses related to this financial support.
We may not be able to recover advances for system services that we provide to our franchisees.
The Company is obligated to use the system fees it collects from the current franchisees comprising its various hotel brands to provide system services, such as marketing and reservations services, appropriate to fulfill our obligations under the Company’s franchise agreements. In discharging our obligation to provide sufficient and appropriate system services, the Company has the right to expend funds in an amount reasonably necessary to ensure the provision of such services, regardless of whether or not such amount is currently available to the Company for reimbursement. As a result, expenditures for system services by the Company in excess of available system fees are deferred and recorded as an asset in the Company’s financial statements.
Under the terms of its franchise agreements, the Company has the contractually enforceable right to assess and collect from its current franchisees fees sufficient to pay for the system services the Company has provided or procured for the benefit of its franchisees, including fees to reimburse the Company for past services rendered. The Company’s current franchisees are contractually obligated to pay any assessment the Company imposes on them to obtain reimbursement of any systems services advances regardless of whether the franchisees continue to generate gross room revenue and whether or not they joined the system following the deficit’s occurrence. However, our ability to recover these advances may be adversely impacted by certain factors, including, among others, declines in the ability of our franchisees to generate revenues at properties they franchise from us. An extended period of occupancy or room rate declines or a decline in the number of hotel rooms in our franchise system could result in the generation of insufficient funds to recover system services advances as well as meet the ongoing system service needs of our franchisees.
Our franchisees may fail to make investments necessary to maintain or improve their properties, preference for our brands and our reputation could suffer and our franchise agreements with these franchisees could terminate.
Our franchised properties are governed by the terms of franchise agreements. Substantially all of these agreements require property owners to comply with standards that are essential to maintaining our brand integrity and reputation. We depend on our franchisees to comply with these requirements by maintaining and improving properties through investments, including investments in furniture, fixtures, amenities and personnel.
Franchisees may be unable to access capital or unwilling to spend available capital when necessary, even if required by the terms of our franchise agreements. If our franchisees fail to make investments necessary to maintain or improve the properties we franchise, our brand preference and reputation could suffer. In addition, if franchisees breach the terms of our agreements with them, we may elect to exercise our termination rights, which would eliminate our revenues from these properties and cause us to incur expenses related to terminating these relationships. These risks become more pronounced during economic downturns.
Increasing use of alternative internet reservation channels may decrease loyalty to our brands and our existing distribution channels or otherwise adversely affect us.
A significant percentage of hotel rooms are booked through internet travel intermediaries. If such bookings increase, these intermediaries may be able to obtain higher commissions, reduced room rates or other significant contract concessions from our franchisees or us. Moreover, some of these internet travel intermediaries are attempting to commoditize hotel rooms, by increasing the importance of price and general indicators of quality at the expense of brand identification. These intermediaries hope that consumers will eventually develop brand loyalties to their reservations systems rather than to our lodging brands and our existing distribution channels. If this happens, our business and profitability may be significantly harmed. We have established agreements with many key third party websites to limit transaction fees for hotels but we currently do not have agreements with several large internet travel intermediaries. We have also introduced a "Best Internet Rate Guarantee" to reduce the ability of intermediaries to undercut the published rates at our hotels. However, there can be no
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assurance that current margins or levels of utilization associated with either our online or contact center distribution channels will not decrease in the face of such competition. In addition, there can be no assurance that we will be able to renegotiate these agreements, upon their expiration, with terms as favorable as the provisions that existed before such expiration, replacement or renegotiation.
We are dependent upon our ability to attract and retain key officers and other highly qualified personnel.
Our future success and our ability to manage future growth depend in large part upon the efforts and skills of our senior management and our ability to attract and retain key officers and other highly qualified personnel. Competition for such personnel is intense. There can be no assurance that we will continue to be successful in attracting and retaining qualified personnel. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that our senior management will be able to successfully execute and implement our growth and operating strategies.
Our international operations are subject to political and monetary risks.
We have franchised properties open and operating in more than 30 countries and territories outside of the United States. We also have investments in foreign hotel franchisors. International operations generally are subject to greater political and other risks than those affecting United States operations. In certain countries, these risks include the risk of war or civil unrest, expropriation and nationalization. In addition, the laws of some international jurisdictions do not adequately protect our intellectual property and restrict the repatriation of non-United States earnings. Various international jurisdictions also have laws limiting the right and ability of non-United States entities to pay dividends and remit earnings to affiliated companies unless specified conditions have been met. In addition, revenues from international jurisdictions typically are earned in local currencies, which subjects us to risks associated with currency fluctuations. Currency devaluations and unfavorable changes in international monetary and tax policies could have a material adverse effect on our profitability and financing plans, as could other changes in the international regulatory climate and international economic conditions. We intend to continue to expand internationally, which would make the risks related to our international operations more significant over time.
We are subject to certain risks related to our indebtedness.
As the result of the Company's $600 million special cash dividend paid in August 2012, we have substantially increased our level of indebtedness. There can be no assurance in the future that we will generate sufficient cash flow from operations or through asset sales to meet our debt service obligations. Our present indebtedness and future borrowings could have important adverse consequences to us, such as:
• | making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our existing indebtedness; |
• | limiting our ability to obtain additional financing; |
• | requiring a substantial portion of our cash flow to be used for principal and interest payments on the debt, thereby reducing our ability to use cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, pay dividends and/or repurchase our common stock; |
• | limiting our ability to respond to changing business, industry and economic conditions and to withstand competitive pressures, which may affect our financial condition; |
• | causing us to incur higher interest expense in the event of increases in interest rates on our borrowings that have variable interest rates or in the event of refinancing existing debt at higher interest rates; |
• | limiting our ability to make investments or acquisitions; |
• | increasing our vulnerability to downturns in our business, our industry or the general economy and restricting us from making improvements or acquisitions or exploring business opportunities; |
• | placing us at a competitive disadvantage to competitors with less debt or greater resources; and |
• | subjecting us to financial and other restrictive covenants in our indebtedness the non-compliance with which could result in an event of default. |
We cannot assure you that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations to enable us to pay our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs. If we fail to generate sufficient cash flow from future operations to meet our debt service obligations, we may need to refinance all or a portion of our debt on or before maturity. We cannot assure you that we will be able to refinance any of our debt on attractive terms, commercially reasonable terms or at all, particularly because of our increased levels of debt and the debt incurrence restrictions imposed by the agreements governing our debt. Our future operating performance and our ability to service, extend or refinance our indebtedness will be subject to future economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our control.
A portion of our borrowings are at variable rates of interest, and to the extent not protected with interest rate hedges, could expose us to market risk from adverse changes in interest rates. Unless we enter into interest rate hedges, if interest rates
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increase, our debt service obligations on the variable-rate indebtedness could increase significantly even though the amount borrowed would remain the same.
Anti-takeover provisions may prevent a change in control.
Our restated certificate of incorporation and the Delaware General Corporation Law each contain provisions that could have the effect of making it more difficult for a party to acquire, and may discourage a party from attempting to acquire, control of our Company without approval of our board of directors. These provisions together with the concentration of our share ownership could discourage tender offers or other bids for our common stock at a premium over market price.
The concentration of share ownership may influence the outcome of certain matters.
The concentration of share ownership by our directors and affiliates allows them to substantially influence the outcome of matters requiring shareholder approval. As a result, acting together, they may be able to control or substantially influence the outcome of matters requiring approval by our shareholders, including the elections of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions, such as mergers, acquisitions and equity compensation plans.
Government franchise and tax regulation could impact our business.
The Federal Trade Commission (the "FTC"), various states and certain foreign jurisdictions where we market franchises regulate the sale of franchises. The FTC requires franchisors to make extensive disclosure to prospective franchisees but does not require registration. A number of states in which our franchisees operate require registration and disclosure in connection with franchise offers and sales. In addition, several states in which our franchisees operate have “franchise relationship laws” that limit the ability of the franchisor to terminate franchise agreements or to withhold consent to the renewal or transfer of these agreements. While our business has not been materially affected by such regulation, there can be no assurance that this will continue or that future regulation or legislation will not have such an effect.
The determination of our worldwide provision for income taxes and other tax liabilities requires estimation and significant judgment and there are many transactions and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. Like many other multinational corporations, we are subject to tax in multiple United States and foreign tax jurisdictions and have structured our operations to reduce our effective tax rate. Our determination of our tax liability is always subject to audit and review by applicable domestic and foreign tax authorities. Any adverse outcome of any such audit or review could have a negative effect on our business, operating results and financial condition, and the ultimate tax outcome may differ from the amounts recorded in our financial statements and may materially affect our financial results in the period or periods for which such determination is made.
In addition, recent economic downturns have reduced tax revenues for United States federal and state governments and as a result proposals to increase taxes from corporate entities are being considered at various levels of government. Among the options have been a range of proposals included in the tax and budget policies recommended to the United States Congress by the United States Department of the Treasury to modify the federal tax rules related to the imposition of United States federal corporate income taxes for companies operating in multiple United States and foreign tax jurisdictions. If such proposals are enacted into law, this could increase our effective tax rate.
We are subject to certain risks related to litigation filed by or against us.
We cannot predict with certainty the cost of defense, the cost of prosecution or the ultimate outcome of litigation filed by or against us, including, remedies or damage awards. This litigation may involve, but is not limited to, actions or negligence by franchisees outside of our control. Our franchise agreements provide that we are not liable for the actions of our franchisees; however, there is no guarantee that we would be insulated from liability in all cases.
We and our franchisees are reliant upon technology and the disruption or malfunction in our information systems could adversely affect our business.
The lodging industry depends upon the use of sophisticated technology and systems including those utilized for reservations, property management, procurement, operation of our customer loyalty programs and our administrative systems. The operation of many of these systems is dependent upon third party data communication networks and software upgrades, maintenance and support. These technologies can be expected to require refinements and there is the risk that advanced new technologies will be introduced. There can be no assurance that as various systems and technologies become outdated or new technology is required we will be able to replace or introduce them as quickly as our competitors or within budgeted costs for such technology.
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There can be no assurance that we will achieve the benefits that may have been anticipated from any new technology or system. Further, there can be no assurance that disruptions of the operation of these systems will not occur as a result of failures related to our internal or third party systems and support.
Information technology systems that we rely upon are also vulnerable to damage or interruption from:
• | earthquakes, fires, floods and other natural disasters; |
• | power losses, computer systems failures, internet and telecommunications or data network failures, service provider negligence, improper operation by or supervision of employees, user error, physical and electronic losses of data and similar events; and |
• | computer viruses, penetration by individuals seeking to disrupt operations or misappropriate information and other breaches of security. |
The hospitality industry is under increasing attack by cyber-criminals in the United States and other jurisdictions in which we operate. These attacks can be deliberate attacks or unintentional events that could cause interruptions or delays in our business, loss of data, or render us unable to process reservations. Accordingly, an extended interruption in the ability of any system to function could significantly curtail, directly and indirectly, our ability to conduct our business and generate revenue.
We seek to minimize the impact of these attacks through various technologies, processes and practices designed to protect our networks, systems, computers and data from attack, damage or unauthorized access. However, there are no guarantees that our cyber-security practices will be sufficient to thwart all attacks. While we carry property and business operation interruption insurance, we may not be sufficiently compensated for all losses we may incur. These losses include not only a loss of revenues but also potential reputational damage to our brands and litigation, fines or regulatory action against us. Furthermore, the Company may also incur substantial remediation costs to repair system damage as well as satisfy liabilities for stolen assets or information that may further reduce our profits.
Failure to protect our trademarks and other intellectual property could impact our business.
We believe that our trademarks and other intellectual property are fundamental to our brands and our franchising business. We generate, maintain, license and enforce a substantial portfolio of trademarks and other intellectual property rights. We enforce our intellectual property rights to protect the value of our trademarks, our development activities, to protect our good name, to promote our brand name recognition, to enhance our competitiveness and to otherwise support our business goals and objectives. We rely on trademark laws to protect our proprietary rights. Monitoring the unauthorized use of our intellectual property is difficult. Litigation has been and may continue to be necessary to enforce our intellectual property rights or to determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of others. Litigation of this type could result in substantial costs and diversion of resources, may result in counterclaims or other claims against us and could significantly harm our results of operations. In addition, the laws of some foreign countries do not protect our proprietary rights to the same extent as do the laws of the United States. From time to time, we apply to have certain trademarks registered. There is no guarantee that such trademark registrations will be granted. We cannot assure you that all of the steps we have taken to protect our trademarks in the United States and foreign countries will be adequate to prevent imitation of our trademarks by others. The unauthorized reproduction of our trademarks could diminish the value of our brand and its market acceptance, competitive advantages or goodwill, which could adversely affect our business.
Failure to maintain the integrity of internal or customer data could result in faulty business decisions, damage of reputation and/or subject us to costs, fines or lawsuits.
Our business requires the collection and retention of large volumes of internal and customer data, including credit card numbers and other personally identifiable information of our employees and customers as such information is entered into, processed, summarized, and reported by the various information systems we use. The integrity and protection of that customer, employee, and company data is critical to us. Our customers have a high expectation that we will adequately protect their personal information, and the regulatory environment surrounding information security and privacy is increasingly demanding, both in the United States and in the international jurisdictions in which we operate. If the Company fails to maintain compliance with the various United States and international laws and regulations applicable to the protection of such data or with the Payment Card Industry ("PCI") data security standards, the Company’s ability to process such data could be adversely impacted and expose the Company to fines, litigation or other expenses or sanctions.
Changes in privacy law could adversely affect our ability to market our products effectively.
We rely on a variety of direct marketing techniques, including telemarketing, email, marketing and postal mailings. Any future restrictions in laws such as Telemarketing Sales Rule, CANSPAM Act, and various United States state laws, or new federal laws regarding marketing and solicitation or international data protection laws that govern these activities could adversely affect the continuing effectiveness of telemarketing, email and postal mailing techniques and could force changes in
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our marketing strategies. If this occurs, we may not be able to develop adequate alternative marketing strategies, which could impact the amount and timing of our revenues. We also obtain access to potential customers from travel service providers and other companies with whom we have substantial relationships and market to some individuals on these lists directly or by including our marketing message in the other company’s marketing materials. If access to these lists was prohibited or otherwise restricted, our ability to develop new customers and introduce them to our products could be impaired.
We depend on the skill, ability and decisions of third party operators.
The Company utilizes third party operators to provide significant franchise services, such as providing general reservation call center services, providing loyalty member call center support, providing data center co-location services, inspecting its franchisees and providing support for the use of its property management system. The failure of any third-party operator to make decisions, perform their services, discharge their obligations, deal with regulatory agencies, and comply with laws, rules and regulations could result in material adverse consequences to our business.
Our investment in SkyTouch Technology and other new business lines is inherently risky, and could disrupt our core business.
We have invested in the development of our SkyTouch operating division - a hospitality-based software and technology developer and provider. Furthermore, we expect to continue to invest in SkyTouch, and may in the future invest in other new business strategies, products, services, and technologies.
Such endeavors generally involve significant risks and uncertainties, including distraction of management from our core franchising operations, unanticipated expenses, inadequate return of capital on our investments, and unidentified issues and risks not discovered in our development or analysis of such strategies and offerings. For SkyTouch, additional specific risks and uncertainties may include a limited history as a stand-alone operating business, the willingness of our potential competitors to enter into a business relationship with one of our operating divisions, the ability to develop and offer innovative products that appeal to hoteliers, continuing market acceptance of enterprise cloud computing, security threats to processed and stored data, intense competition in the technology industry, protection of intellectual property rights, and claims of infringement of the intellectual property of third parties.
Because SkyTouch and similar new ventures are inherently risky, there can be no assurance that our investment in SkyTouch or similar new ventures will be successful. If we do not realize the financial or strategic goals that are contemplated at the time we commit to significant investments in support of these ventures, our reputation, financial condition, operating results and growth trajectory may be impacted.
Item 1B. | Unresolved Staff Comments. |
None.
Item 2. | Properties. |
Our principal executive offices are located at 1 Choice Hotels Circle, Suite 400, Rockville, Maryland 20850 and are leased from a third party.
We lease one office building and own a second office building in Phoenix, AZ, which houses our reservation and property systems’ information technology operations and our SkyTouch division. We also own a reservation center in Grand Junction, CO. The Company also leases office space for regional offices in Australia, England, Canada, Germany, Italy, France, India, Mexico and Chevy Chase, MD.
We own three MainStay Suites hotels located in Brentwood, TN, Pittsburgh, PA and Greenville, SC. In addition, the Company owns various parcels of real estate for the potential development of Cambria Suites hotels in El Segundo, CA, Orlando, FL and Rockland, MA.
Management believes that the Company’s existing properties are sufficient to meet its present needs and does not anticipate any difficulty in securing additional or alternative space, as needed, on terms acceptable to the Company. In addition, we believe that all properties owned and leased are in generally good physical condition with the need for only routine repairs and maintenance and periodic capital improvements.
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Item 3. | Legal Proceedings. |
Except as noted below, the Company is not a party to any litigation other than litigation in the ordinary course of business. The Company's management and legal counsel do not expect that the ultimate outcome of any of its currently ongoing legal proceedings, individually or collectively, will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
In May 2013, the Company was added to an ongoing multi-district class action pending in federal court in Dallas, Texas. The lawsuit alleged that several online travel companies and hotel companies have engaged in anti-competitive practices. The complaint sought an unspecified amount of damages and equitable relief. The Company, along with other defendants, disputed the allegations and vigorously defended itself against these claims. On February 18, 2014, the court granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss the lawsuit without prejudice. The plaintiffs have 30 days to petition the court to refile their claim with additional facts. We currently do not believe this litigation will have a material effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operation or liquidity.
Item 4. | Mine Safety Disclosures. |
None
PART II
Item 5. | Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities. |
The shares of the Company’s common stock are listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange. The following table sets forth information on the high and low sales prices of the Company’s common stock and cash dividends declared per share for each quarterly period for the two most recently completed years.
QUARTERLY MARKET PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK AND CASH DIVIDENDS DECLARED
Market Price Per Share | Cash Dividends Declared Per Share | ||||||||||||
Quarters Ended | High | Low | |||||||||||
2012 | |||||||||||||
March 31, | $ | 39.14 | $ | 35.01 | $ | 0.185 | |||||||
June 30, | $ | 42.29 | $ | 34.80 | $ | 0.185 | |||||||
September 30, | $ | 44.48 | $ | 31.06 | $ | 10.595 | (1 | ) | |||||
December 31, | $ | 33.68 | $ | 30.40 | $ | 0.185 | |||||||
2013 | |||||||||||||
March 31, | $ | 42.32 | $ | 34.00 | $ | 0.185 | |||||||
June 30, | $ | 45.96 | $ | 38.30 | $ | 0.185 | |||||||
September 30, | $ | 44.04 | $ | 37.94 | $ | 0.185 | |||||||
December 31, | $ | 49.79 | $ | 39.71 | $ | 0.185 | |||||||
(1) Dividends declared during the third quarter of 2012 include a $10.41 special cash dividend per common share and a regular quarterly dividend of $0.185 per common share.
The Company currently maintains the payment of a quarterly dividend on its common shares outstanding, however, the declaration of future dividends are subject to the discretion of the board of directors. We expect that regular quarterly cash dividends will continue to be paid at a comparable rate in the future, subject to future business performance, economic conditions and changes in the current income tax regulations. In addition, the Company may not make dividend payments if there is an existing event of default under its senior secured credit facility or if the payment would create an event of default. Furthermore, if the Company's total leverage, as defined in the Company's senior secured credit facility, exceeds 4.50 to 1, the Company is generally restricted from paying aggregate dividends in excess of $50 million during any calendar year.
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As of February 14, 2014, there were 1,512 holders of record of the Company’s common stock.
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
The following table sets forth purchases and redemptions of Choice Hotels International, Inc. common stock made by the Company during the year ended December 31, 2013.
Month Ending | Total Number of Shares Purchased or Redeemed | Average Price Paid per Share | Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs(1),(2) | Maximum Number of Shares that may yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs, End of Period | ||||||||
January 31, 2013 | — | $ | — | — | 1,418,991 | |||||||
February 28, 2013 | 91,788 | 37.32 | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
March 31, 2013 | 5,189 | 40.32 | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
April 30, 2013 | — | — | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
May 31, 2013 | 410 | 39.81 | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
June 30, 2013 | — | — | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
July 31, 2013 | — | — | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
August 31, 2013 | — | — | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
September 30, 2013 | 795 | 40.80 | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
October 31, 2013 | — | — | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
November 30, 2013 | — | — | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
December 31, 2013 | 5,698 | 49.22 | — | 1,418,991 | ||||||||
Total | 103,880 | $ | 38.16 | — | 1,418,991 | |||||||
____________________________
(1) | The Company’s share repurchase program was initially approved by the board of directors on June 25, 1998 and has 1,418,991 shares remaining under authorization. The program has no fixed dollar amount or expiration date. |
(2) | During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company redeemed 103,880 shares of common stock from employees to satisfy the option price and minimum tax-withholding requirements related to the exercising of options and vesting of performance vested restricted stock units and restricted stock grants. These redemptions were not part of the board repurchase authorization. |
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STOCKHOLDER RETURN PERFORMANCE
The graph below compares the cumulative 5-year total return of holders of Choice Hotels International, Inc.'s common stock with the cumulative total returns of the NYSE Composite index and the S&P Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines index. The graph tracks the performance of a $100 investment in our common stock and in each of the indexes (with the reinvestment of all dividends) from December 31, 2008 to December 31, 2013.
12/08 | 6/09 | 12/09 | 6/10 | 12/10 | 6/11 | 12/11 | 6/12 | 12/12 | 6/13 | 12/13 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Choice Hotels International, Inc. | $ | 100.00 | $ | 89.77 | $ | 108.06 | $ | 104.30 | $ | 133.44 | $ | 117.52 | $ | 135.51 | $ | 143.59 | $ | 162.62 | $ | 193.71 | $ | 241.65 | |||||||||||||||||||||
NYSE Composite | 100.00 | 104.27 | 128.28 | 116.91 | 145.46 | 153.75 | 139.87 | 148.03 | 162.23 | 178.44 | 204.87 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
S&P Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines | 100.00 | 115.65 | 155.86 | 161.37 | 238.89 | 212.56 | 192.88 | 228.81 | 241.45 | 250.96 | 311.82 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The stock price performance included in this graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.
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Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
We derived the selected consolidated statements of income data for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 and the selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 from our audited consolidated financial statements included in this annual report. We derived the selected consolidated statements of income data for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 and the selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 from our previously audited consolidated financial statements which are not included in this annual report. Our historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for any future period.
You should read the selected historical financial data together with the consolidated financial statements and related notes appearing in this annual report, as well as Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the other financial information included elsewhere in this annual report.
Company results (in millions, except per share data)
As of and for the year ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||
2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |||||||||||||||
Total Revenues | $ | 564.2 | $ | 596.1 | $ | 638.8 | $ | 691.5 | $ | 724.3 | |||||||||
Operating Income | $ | 148.1 | $ | 160.8 | $ | 171.9 | $ | 193.1 | $ | 194.5 | |||||||||
Net Income | $ | 98.3 | $ | 107.4 | $ | 110.4 | $ | 120.7 | $ | 112.6 | |||||||||
Basic Earnings per Share | $ | 1.64 | $ | 1.80 | $ | 1.86 | $ | 2.08 | $ | 1.92 | |||||||||
Diluted Earnings per Share | $ | 1.63 | $ | 1.80 | $ | 1.85 | $ | 2.07 | $ | 1.91 | |||||||||
Total Assets | $ | 340.0 | $ | 411.7 | $ | 447.7 | $ | 510.8 | $ | 539.9 | |||||||||
Long-Term Debt | $ | 277.7 | $ | 251.6 | $ | 252.0 | $ | 847.2 | $ | 783.5 | |||||||||
Cash Dividends Declared Per Common Share | $ | 0.74 | $ | 0.74 | $ | 0.74 | $ | 11.15 | $ | 0.74 | |||||||||
Matters that affect the comparability of our annual results are as follows:
• | Operating and net income in 2009 included termination benefits expense totaling $4.6 million, $1.2 million of additional expenses due to the curtailment of the Company’s Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan ("SERP") resulting from the freezing of benefits payable under the plan and a $1.5 million loss related to a sublease of office space and related impairment charges to the space’s leasehold improvements. These items represented a decline in diluted EPS of $0.08 per share. |
• | Operating and net income in 2010 included termination benefits expense totaling $1.7 million resulting from the termination of certain employees. In addition, the Company’s income tax expense included an adjustment of $3.3 million to our deferred tax assets and the identification of $1.6 million of additional federal income tax benefits, partially offset by an increase of $1.6 million related to the identification of unrecognized tax positions. These items represented an increase in diluted EPS of $0.04 per share. |
• | Operating and net income in 2011 was reduced by termination benefits totaling $4.4 million resulting from the termination of certain employees. Net income was further impacted by a $1.8 million loss on assets held for sale resulting from the Company reducing the carrying amount of a parcel of land held for sale to its estimated fair value. In addition, the Company's income tax expense was reduced due to the identification of $1.4 million of changes in unrecognized tax positions and the identification of $2.8 million of additional federal tax benefits. Additionally, an adjustment to our current federal taxes payable of $1.4 million reduced our effective tax rate. These items represented a net increase in diluted EPS of $0.16 per share. |
• | Operating and net income in 2012 was reduced by termination benefits of $0.5 million resulting from the termination of certain employees and a $1.8 million loss on the settlement of the SERP. The Company's 2012 net income was further reduced by the issuance of unsecured senior notes in the principal amount of $400 million as well as a $350 million senior secured credit facility to pay a special cash dividend totaling approximately $600.7 million. The issuance of this debt resulted in interest expense increasing by approximately $14.2 million and a loss on extinguishment of debt totaling $0.5 million. Net income was favorably impacted by a $4.5 million tax |
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benefit related to a change in estimate of the tax benefit from foreign operations. These items represented a net decline in diluted EPS of $0.12 per share.
• | Operating and net income in 2013 reflect an increased investment in the Company's SkyTouch division, a new division launched that develops and markets cloud-based technology products, totaling approximately $8.4 million. Net income was further reduced by the issuance of unsecured senior notes in the principal amount of $400 million as well as a $350 million senior secured credit facility to pay a special cash dividend totaling approximately $600.7 million in the second and third quarters of 2012. The issuance of this debt resulted in interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2013 increasing by approximately $15.3 million over the prior year. These items represented a net decline in diluted EPS of $0.26 per share. |
Item 7. | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation. |
The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ("MD&A") is intended to help the reader understand Choice Hotels International, Inc. and its subsidiaries (together the "Company"). MD&A is provided as a supplement to—and should be read in conjunction with—our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes.
Overview
We are primarily a hotel franchisor with franchise agreements representing 6,340 hotels open and 503 hotels under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development as of December 31, 2013, with 506,058 rooms and 38,957 rooms, respectively, in 50 states, the District of Columbia and more than 35 countries and territories outside the United States. Our brand names include Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Clarion, Ascend Hotel Collection, Sleep Inn, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel and Cambria Suites (collectively, the "Choice brands").
The Company's domestic franchising operations are conducted through direct franchising relationships while its international franchise operations are conducted through a combination of direct franchising and master franchising relationships. Master franchising relationships are governed by master franchising agreements which generally provide the master franchisee with the right to use our brands and sub-license the use of our brands in a specific geographic region, usually for a fee.
Our business philosophy has been to conduct direct franchising in those international markets where both franchising is an accepted business model and we believe our brands can achieve significant scale. We elect to enter into master franchise agreements in those markets where direct franchising is currently not a prevalent or viable business model. When entering into master franchising relationships, we strive to select partners that have professional hotel and asset management capabilities together with the financial capacity to invest in building the Choice brands in their respective markets. Master franchising relationships typically provide lower revenues to the Company as the master franchisees are responsible for managing certain necessary services (such as training, quality assurance, reservations and marketing) to support the franchised hotels in the master franchise area and therefore retain a larger percentage of the hotel franchise fees to cover their expenses. In certain circumstances, the Company has and may continue to make equity investments in our master franchisees.
As a result of our use of master franchising relationships and international market conditions, revenues from international franchising operations comprised 8% of our total revenues in both 2013 and 2012 while representing approximately 18% and 19% of our franchise system hotels open at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Therefore, our description of the franchise system is primarily focused on the domestic operations.
Our Company generates revenues, income and cash flows primarily from initial, relicensing and continuing royalty fees attributable to our franchise agreements. Revenues are also generated from qualified vendor arrangements, hotel operations and other sources. The hotel industry is seasonal in nature. For most hotels, demand is lower in December through March than during the remainder of the year. Our principal source of revenues is franchise fees based on the gross room revenues of our franchised properties. The Company’s franchise fee revenues and operating income reflect the industry’s seasonality and historically have been lower in the first quarter than in the second, third or fourth quarters.
With a focus on hotel franchising instead of ownership, we benefit from the economies of scale inherent in the franchising business. The fee and cost structure of our business provides opportunities to improve operating results by increasing the number of franchised hotel rooms and effective royalty rates of our franchise contracts resulting in increased initial and relicensing fee revenue; ongoing royalty fees and procurement services revenues. In addition, our operating results can also be improved through our company-wide efforts related to improving property level performance. At December 31, 2013, the Company estimates, based on its current domestic portfolio of hotels under franchise, that a 1% change in revenue per available room ("RevPAR") or rooms under franchise would increase or decrease royalty revenues by approximately $2.5 million and a 1 basis point change in the Company’s effective royalty rate would increase or decrease domestic royalties by
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approximately $0.6 million. In addition to these revenues, we also collect marketing and reservation system fees to support centralized marketing and reservation activities for the franchise system. The Company's hotel franchising business currently has relatively low capital expenditure requirements.
The principal factors that affect the Company’s results are: the number and relative mix of franchised hotel rooms in the various hotel lodging price categories; growth in the number of hotel rooms under franchise; occupancy and room rates achieved by the hotels under franchise; the effective royalty rate achieved; the level of franchise sales and relicensing activity; and our ability to manage costs. The number of rooms at franchised properties and occupancy and room rates at those properties significantly affect the Company’s results because our fees are based upon room revenues at franchised hotels. The key industry standard for measuring hotel-operating performance is RevPAR, which is calculated by multiplying the percentage of occupied rooms by the average daily room rate realized. Our variable overhead costs associated with franchise system growth of our established brands have historically been less than incremental royalty fees generated from new franchises. Accordingly, continued growth of our franchise business should enable us to realize benefits from the operating leverage in place and improve operating results.
We are required by our franchise agreements to use the marketing and reservation system fees we collect for system-wide marketing and reservation activities. These expenditures, which include advertising costs and costs to maintain our central reservations and property management systems, help to enhance awareness and increase consumer preference for our brands. Greater awareness and preference promotes long-term growth in business delivery to our franchisees and increases the desirability of our brands to hotel owners and developers, which ultimately increases franchise fees earned by the Company.
Our Company articulates its mission as a commitment to our franchisees’ profitability by providing our franchisees with hotel franchises that strive to generate the highest return on investment of any hotel franchise. We have developed an operating system dedicated to our franchisees’ success that focuses on delivering guests to our franchised hotels and reducing costs for our hotel owners.
We believe that executing our strategic priorities creates value for our shareholders. Our Company focuses on two key goals:
Profitable Growth. Our success is dependent on improving the performance of our hotels, increasing our system size by selling additional hotel franchises, effective royalty rate improvement and maintaining a disciplined cost structure. We attempt to improve our franchisees’ revenues and overall profitability by providing a variety of products and services designed to increase business delivery to and/or reduce operating and development costs for our franchisees. These products and services include national marketing campaigns, a central reservation system, property and yield management systems, quality assurance standards and qualified vendor relationships. We believe that healthy brands, which deliver a compelling return on investment for franchisees, will enable us to sell additional hotel franchises and raise royalty rates. We have established multiple brands that meet the needs of many types of guests, and can be developed at various price points and applied to both new and existing hotels. This ensures that we have brands suitable for creating growth in a variety of market conditions. Improving the performance of the hotels under franchise, growing the system through additional franchise sales and improving franchise agreement pricing while maintaining a disciplined cost structure are the keys to profitable growth.
Maximizing Financial Returns and Creating Value for Shareholders. Our capital allocation decisions, including capital structure and uses of capital, are intended to maximize our return on invested capital and create value for our shareholders. We believe our strong and predictable cash flows create a strong financial position that provides us a competitive advantage. Currently, our business does not require significant capital to operate and grow. Therefore, we can maintain a capital structure that generates high financial returns and use our excess cash flow to increase returns to our shareholders primarily through share repurchases, dividends or investing in growth opportunities.
Historically, we have returned value to our shareholders in two primary ways: share repurchases and dividends. In 1998, we instituted a share repurchase program which has generated substantial value for our shareholders. Since the program's inception through December 31, 2013, we have repurchased 45.3 million shares (including 33.0 million prior to the two-for-one stock split effected in October 2005) of common stock at a total cost of $1.1 billion. Considering the effect of the two-for-one stock split, the Company has repurchased 78.3 million shares at an average price of $13.89 per share. At December 31, 2013, we had approximately 1.4 million shares remaining under the current share repurchase authorization. We currently believe that our cash flows from operations will support our ability to complete the current board of directors repurchase authorization and upon completion of the current authorization, our board of directors will evaluate the advisability of additional share repurchases.
The Company commenced paying quarterly dividends in 2004 and in 2012 the Company elected to pay a special cash dividend totaling approximately $600 million. The Company currently maintains the payment of a quarterly dividend on its common shares outstanding of $0.185 per share, however the declaration of future dividends are subject to the discretion of the
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board of directors. In the fourth quarter of 2012, the Company's board of directors elected to pay prior to December 31, 2012 the regular quarterly dividend initially scheduled to be paid in the first quarter of 2013. As a result, the Company did not pay a regular quarterly dividend during the first quarter of 2013. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company paid cash dividends totaling approximately $32.8 million. We expect to continue to pay dividends in the future, subject to declaration by our board of directors as well as future business performance, economic conditions, changes in income tax regulations and other factors. Based on our present dividend rate and outstanding share count, we expect that aggregate annual regular dividends for 2014 would be approximately $43.1 million.
The Company also allocates capital to exploring growth opportunities in business areas that are adjacent or complementary to our core hotel franchising business, which leverage our core competencies and are additive to our franchising business model. The timing and amount of these investments are subject to market and other conditions and include the following:
Our board of directors authorized a program which permits us to offer financing, investment and guaranty support to qualified franchisees as well as allows us to acquire and resell real estate to incent franchise development for certain brands in strategic markets. Recent market conditions have resulted in an increase in opportunities to incentivize development under this program and as a result over the next several years we expect to deploy capital pursuant to this program opportunistically to promote growth of our emerging brands. The amount and timing of the investment in this program will be dependent on market and other conditions. Our current expectation is that our annual investment in this program will range from $20 million to $40 million per year and we generally expect to recycle these investments within a five year period.
In March 2013, the Company announced the launch of a new division, SkyTouch Technology ("SkyTouch"), which develops and markets cloud-based technology products for the hotel industry. In conjunction with this new division, the Company incurred selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses of $11.5 million during the year ending December 31, 2013 primarily related to business development, sales and marketing and continued software development.
Notwithstanding investments in SkyTouch and other alternative growth strategies, the Company expects to continue to return value to its shareholders through a combination of share repurchases and dividends, subject to the discretion of our board of directors as well as to business performance, economic conditions, changes in income tax regulations and other factors.
We believe these investments and strategic priorities, when properly implemented, will enhance our profitability, maximize our financial returns and continue to generate value for our shareholders. The ultimate measure of our success will be reflected in the items below.
Results of Operation: Royalty fees, operating income, net income and diluted earnings per share ("EPS") represent key measurements of these value drivers. These measurements are primarily driven by the operations of our franchise system and therefore our analysis of the Company's operations is primarily focused on the size, performance and potential growth of the franchise system as well as our variable overhead costs.
Refer to MD&A heading "Operations Review" for additional analysis of our results.
Liquidity and Capital Resources: Historically, the Company has generated significant cash flows from operations. Since our business does not currently require significant reinvestment of capital, we typically utilize cash in ways that management believes provide the greatest returns to our shareholders which include share repurchases and dividends. However, we may determine to utilize cash for acquisitions and other investments in the future. We believe the Company’s cash flow from operations and available financing capacity is sufficient to meet the expected future operating, investing and financing needs of the business.
Refer to MD&A heading "Liquidity and Capital Resources" for additional analysis.
Inflation: Inflation has been moderate in recent years and has not had a significant impact on our business.
Non-GAAP Financial Statement Measurements
The Company utilizes certain measures which do not conform to generally accepted accounting principles accepted in the United States ("GAAP") when analyzing and discussing its results with the investment community. This information should not be considered as an alternative to any measure of performance as promulgated under GAAP. The Company’s calculation of these measurements may be different from the calculations used by other companies and therefore comparability may be limited. We have included a reconciliation of these measures to the comparable GAAP measurement below as well as our reasons for reporting these non-GAAP measures.
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Franchising Revenues: The Company utilizes franchising revenues, which exclude revenues from marketing and reservation system activities, the SkyTouch division and hotel operations, rather than total revenues when analyzing the performance of the business. Marketing and reservation activities are excluded from franchising revenues since the Company is contractually required by its franchise agreements to use the fees collected for marketing and reservation activities; as such, no income or loss to the Company is generated. Cumulative marketing and reservation system fees not expended are recorded as a liability in the Company’s financial statements and are carried over to the next fiscal year and expended in accordance with the franchise agreements. Cumulative marketing and reservation expenditures incurred in excess of fees collected for marketing and reservation activities are deferred and recorded as an asset in the Company’s financial statements and recovered in future periods. Hotel operations reflect the Company's ownership of three MainStay Suites hotels. SkyTouch is a division of the Company that develops and markets cloud-based technology products, including inventory management, pricing and connectivity to third party channels, to hoteliers not under franchise agreements with the Company. Hotel and SkyTouch operations are excluded from franchising revenue since they do not reflect the Company's core franchising business but are adjacent, complimentary lines of business. This non-GAAP measure is a commonly used measure of performance in our industry and facilitates comparisons between the Company and its competitors.
Calculation of Franchising Revenues
Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||
($ amounts in thousands) | |||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
Total Revenues | $ | 724,307 | $ | 691,509 | $ | 638,793 | |||||
Less Adjustments: | |||||||||||
Marketing and reservation system revenues | (403,099 | ) | (384,784 | ) | (349,036 | ) | |||||
SkyTouch division | (33 | ) | — | — | |||||||
Hotel operations | (4,774 | ) | (4,573 | ) | (4,356 | ) | |||||
Franchising Revenues | $ | 316,401 | $ | 302,152 | $ | 285,401 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA: We also utilize adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("Adjusted EBITDA") to analyze our results which reflects earnings excluding the impact of interest expense, interest income, loss on extinguishment of debt, provision for income taxes, depreciation and amortization, other (gains) and losses and equity in net income of unconsolidated affiliates. We consider Adjusted EBITDA to be an indicator of operating performance because we use it to measure our ability to service debt, fund capital expenditures, and expand our business. We also use Adjusted EBITDA, as do analysts, lenders, investors and others, to evaluate companies because it excludes certain items that can vary widely across different industries or among companies within the same industry. For example, interest expense can be dependent on a company’s capital structure, debt levels and credit ratings. Accordingly, the impact of interest expense on earnings can vary significantly among companies. The tax positions of companies can also vary because of their differing abilities to take advantage of tax benefits and because of the tax policies of the jurisdictions in which they operate. As a result, effective tax rates and provision for income taxes can vary considerably among companies. Adjusted EBITDA also excludes depreciation and amortization because companies utilize productive assets of different ages and use different methods of both acquiring and depreciating productive assets. These differences can result in considerable variability in the relative costs of productive assets and the depreciation and amortization expense among companies. Additionally, Adjusted EBITDA is also utilized as a performance indicator as it excludes equity in net income of unconsolidated affiliates and other (gains) and losses which primarily reflect the performance of investments held in the Company's non-qualified retirement, savings and investment plans which can vary widely from period to period based on market conditions.
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Calculation of Adjusted EBITDA
Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||
($ amounts in thousands) | |||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
Net Income | $ | 112,601 | $ | 120,687 | $ | 110,396 | |||||
Income taxes | 44,317 | 48,481 | 47,661 | ||||||||
Interest expense | 42,537 | 27,189 | 12,939 | ||||||||
Interest income | (2,547 | ) | (1,540 | ) | (1,306 | ) | |||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | — | 526 | — | ||||||||
Other (gains) and losses | (1,780 | ) | (1,989 | ) | 2,442 | ||||||
Equity in net income of affiliates | (634 | ) | (212 | ) | (269 | ) | |||||
Depreciation and amortization | 9,469 | 8,226 | 8,024 | ||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 203,963 | $ | 201,368 | $ | 179,887 | |||||
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Operations Review
Comparison of 2013 and 2012 Operating Results
Summarized financial results for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands, except per share amounts) | |||||||
REVENUES: | |||||||
Royalty fees | $ | 267,229 | $ | 260,782 | |||
Initial franchise and relicensing fees | 18,686 | 14,203 | |||||
Procurement services | 20,668 | 17,962 | |||||
Marketing and reservation | 403,099 | 384,784 | |||||
Hotel operations | 4,774 | 4,573 | |||||
Other | 9,851 | 9,205 | |||||
Total revenues | 724,307 | 691,509 | |||||
OPERATING EXPENSES: | |||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 113,567 | 101,852 | |||||
Depreciation and amortization | 9,469 | 8,226 | |||||
Marketing and reservation | 403,099 | 384,784 | |||||
Hotel operations | 3,678 | 3,505 | |||||
Total operating expenses | 529,813 | 498,367 | |||||
Operating income | 194,494 | 193,142 | |||||
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSES: | |||||||
Interest expense | 42,537 | 27,189 | |||||
Interest income | (2,547 | ) | (1,540 | ) | |||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | — | 526 | |||||
Other (gains) and losses | (1,780 | ) | (1,989 | ) | |||
Equity in net income of affiliates | (634 | ) | (212 | ) | |||
Total other income and expenses, net | 37,576 | 23,974 | |||||
Income before income taxes | 156,918 | 169,168 | |||||
Income taxes | 44,317 | 48,481 | |||||
Net income | $ | 112,601 | $ | 120,687 | |||
Diluted earnings per share | $ | 1.91 | $ | 2.07 | |||
The Company recorded net income of $112.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013, an $8.1 million or 7% decline from the year ended December 31, 2012. The decline in net income for the year ended December 31, 2013 primarily reflects a $15.3 million increase in interest expense resulting from the issuance of debt in June and July of 2012 to finance the Company's $600.7 million special dividend paid on August 23, 2012, partially offset by a $1.4 million increase in operating income, a $0.5 million loss on extinguishment of debt incurred in the prior year as a result of refinancing the Company's $300 million revolving credit facility and a decline in the Company's effective income tax rate from 28.7% in 2012 to 28.2% in the current year.
Operating income increased $1.4 million as the Company’s franchising revenues increased by a $14.2 million or 5% but were partially offset by an $11.7 million or 12% increase in SG&A expenses and a $1.2 million increase in depreciation and amortization expenses. Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2013 increased $2.6 million or 1% to $204.0 million. The key drivers of these fluctuations are described in more detail below.
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Franchising Revenues: Franchising revenues were $316.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to $302.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, a 5% increase. The increase in franchising revenues is primarily due to a $6.4 million or 2% increase in royalty revenues, a $4.5 million increase in initial franchise and relicensing fees and a $2.7 million or 15% increase in procurement services fees.
Royalty Fees
Domestic royalty fees for the year ended December 31, 2013 increased $6.8 million to $242.5 million from $235.7 million in 2012, an increase of 3%. The increase in domestic royalties is attributable to a combination of factors including a 3.0% increase in domestic RevPAR and a 1.1% increase in the number of domestic franchised hotel rooms. The Company's effective royalty rate of the domestic hotel system for 2013 remained unchanged at 4.33% from 2012. System-wide RevPAR increased due to an 80 basis point increase in occupancy rates and a 1.6% increase in average daily rates.
A summary of the Company’s domestic franchised hotels operating information for the years ending December 31, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
2013* | 2012* | Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Average Daily Rate | Occupancy | RevPAR | Average Daily Rate | Occupancy | RevPAR | Average Daily Rate | Occupancy | RevPAR | ||||||||||||||||||||
Comfort Inn | $ | 83.21 | 59.9 | % | $ | 49.87 | $ | 81.55 | 59.4 | % | $ | 48.42 | 2.0 | % | 50 bps | 3.0% | ||||||||||||
Comfort Suites | 86.89 | 62.8 | % | 54.53 | 85.47 | 61.7 | % | 52.74 | 1.7 | % | 110 bps | 3.4% | ||||||||||||||||
Sleep | 74.35 | 58.5 | % | 43.46 | 72.40 | 56.3 | % | 40.77 | 2.7 | % | 220 bps | 6.6% | ||||||||||||||||
Quality | 70.19 | 53.0 | % | 37.17 | 69.46 | 51.6 | % | 35.85 | 1.1 | % | 140 bps | 3.7% | ||||||||||||||||
Clarion | 75.20 | 50.9 | % | 38.30 | 74.94 | 49.4 | % | 37.03 | 0.3 | % | 150 bps | 3.4% | ||||||||||||||||
Econo Lodge | 56.56 | 48.7 | % | 27.52 | 55.78 | 48.5 | % | 27.05 | 1.4 | % | 20 bps | 1.7% | ||||||||||||||||
Rodeway | 54.25 | 51.6 | % | 27.96 | 53.36 | 50.8 | % | 27.13 | 1.7 | % | 80 bps | 3.1% | ||||||||||||||||
MainStay | 72.46 | 68.0 | % | 49.27 | 69.34 | 70.4 | % | 48.81 | 4.5 | % | (240) bps | 0.9% | ||||||||||||||||
Suburban | 42.67 | 70.1 | % | 29.91 | 41.61 | 69.7 | % | 29.01 | 2.5 | % | 40 bps | 3.1% | ||||||||||||||||
Ascend Hotel Collection | 120.97 | 64.3 | % | 77.82 | 113.33 | 64.4 | % | 72.94 | 6.7 | % | (10) bps | 6.7% | ||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 74.76 | 56.3 | % | $ | 42.08 | $ | 73.60 | 55.5 | % | $ | 40.84 | 1.6 | % | 80 bps | 3.0% | ||||||||||||
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* Operating statistics represent hotel operations from December through November and exclude Cambria Suites since the operating statistics are not representative of a stabilized brand, which the Company defines as having at least 25 units open and operating for a twelve month period.
The number of domestic rooms on-line increased to 400,585 rooms as of December 31, 2013 from 396,102 as of December 31, 2012 an increase of 4,483 rooms or 1.1%. The total number of domestic hotels on-line increased by 97 units or 1.9% to 5,180 as of December 31, 2013 from 5,083 as of December 31, 2012.
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A summary of the domestic hotels and available rooms at December 31, 2013 and 2012 by brand is as follows:
December 31, 2013 | December 31, 2012 | Variance | |||||||||||||||||||||
Hotels | Rooms | Hotels | Rooms | Hotels | % | Rooms | % | ||||||||||||||||
Comfort Inn | 1,302 | 101,673 | 1,349 | 105,471 | (47 | ) | (3.5 | )% | (3,798 | ) | (3.6 | %) | |||||||||||
Comfort Suites | 589 | 45,451 | 597 | 46,045 | (8 | ) | (1.3 | )% | (594 | ) | (1.3 | %) | |||||||||||
Sleep | 382 | 27,623 | 387 | 28,087 | (5 | ) | (1.3 | )% | (464 | ) | (1.7 | %) | |||||||||||
Quality | 1,223 | 101,143 | 1,152 | 98,078 | 71 | 6.2 | % | 3,065 | 3.1 | % | |||||||||||||
Clarion | 190 | 27,501 | 191 | 27,441 | (1 | ) | (0.5 | )% | 60 | 0.2 | % | ||||||||||||
Econo Lodge | 830 | 50,694 | 817 | 49,951 | 13 | 1.6 | % | 743 | 1.5 | % | |||||||||||||
Rodeway | 438 | 24,677 | 410 | 23,370 | 28 | 6.8 | % | 1,307 | 5.6 | % | |||||||||||||
MainStay | 43 | 3,331 | 41 | 3,165 | 2 | 4.9 | % | 166 | 5.2 | % | |||||||||||||
Suburban | 63 | 7,167 | 63 | 7,291 | — | — | % | (124 | ) | (1.7 | %) | ||||||||||||
Ascend Hotel Collection | 102 | 9,206 | 57 | 4,982 | 45 | 78.9 | % | 4,224 | 84.8 | % | |||||||||||||
Cambria Suites | 18 | 2,119 | 19 | 2,221 | (1 | ) | (5.3 | )% | (102 | ) | (4.6 | %) | |||||||||||
Total Domestic Franchises | 5,180 | 400,585 | 5,083 | 396,102 | 97 | 1.9 | % | 4,483 | 1.1 | % | |||||||||||||
Domestic hotels open and operating increased by 97 hotels during the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to an increase of 82 domestic hotels open and operating during the year ended December 31, 2012. Gross domestic franchise additions increased from 308 for the year ended December 31, 2012 to 340 for the same period in 2013. New construction hotels represented 34 of the gross domestic additions during year ended December 31, 2013 compared to 27 hotels in the same period of the prior year. The increase in new construction hotel openings reflect a slight improvement in the lending environment and willingness of developers to build new product in the hotel chain scales in which we operate. Gross domestic additions for conversion hotels during the year ended December 31, 2013 increased by 25 from 281 hotels during the year ended December 31, 2012 to 306 hotels. Conversion hotel openings increased 9% primarily due to a 14% increase in the number of domestic conversion franchise agreements executed in 2013 compared to 2012 partially offset by the timing of openings. The timing of conversion hotel openings are impacted by various factors including the complexity of the property improvement plans required to be completed prior to opening but typically open within three to four months after the execution of a franchise agreement. The Company expects the number of new franchise units that will open during 2014 to increase from 340 hotels in 2013 to 345 hotels. Although there has been an increase in the number of projected hotel openings, new construction and conversion openings continue to be impacted by the restrictive lending environment, retention efforts implemented by other hotel brand companies and increased competition for existing hotels seeking a new brand affiliation.
Net domestic franchise terminations increased by 17 units from 226 for the year ended December 31, 2012 to 243 for the year ended December 31, 2013. The increase in net terminations is primarily related to the removal of hotels for non-compliance with the Company's rules, regulations and standards as well as non-payment of franchise fees partially offset by increased retention efforts implemented by the Company to reduce the number of franchisees converting to competitor brands or independent status. Under certain circumstances, as an alternative to terminating a hotel from the franchise system, the Company will seek to reposition hotels that are under-performing or that no longer meet the quality and brand standards of their particular brand to another one of its brands. As a result of this strategy, the Company repositioned 37 Comfort Inn hotels during the year ended December 31, 2013 to other brands. As industry supply growth continues to improve and return to historical levels, the Company will continue to execute its strategy to replace franchised hotels that do not meet our brand standards or are under-performing in their market.
International royalties decreased $0.4 million from $25.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2012 to $24.7 million for the same period in 2013 despite a 2.3% increase in the number of rooms available primarily due to RevPAR performance in the various countries in which we operate and the negative impact of foreign currency fluctuations. International available rooms increased by 2,322 rooms to 105,473 as of December 31, 2013 from 103,151 as of December 31, 2012. The total number of international hotels on-line totaled 1,160 at both December 31, 2013 and 2012.
Initial Franchise and Relicensing Fees
Domestic initial franchise fee revenue, included in the initial franchise and relicensing fees caption above, generated from executed franchise agreements increased 26% to $11.0 million for 2013 from $8.7 million for 2012. Initial franchise fee revenue increased due to a 12% increase in the number of new executed franchise agreements executed and an increase in the
45
amount of deferred revenue recognized in 2013 related to franchise agreements containing developer incentives that were executed in prior years. Revenues associated with agreements including incentives are deferred and recognized when the incentive criteria are met or the agreement is terminated, whichever comes first. At December 31, 2013, the Company had approximately $4.5 million and $2.3 million of deferred initial franchise fees and sales commissions, respectively, outstanding related to domestic franchise agreements executed with developer incentives.
During 2013, the Company received 756 applications for new franchise agreements (not including relicensing of existing agreements) compared to 750 in 2012. These applications resulted in 530 new domestic franchise agreements executed during 2013 representing 41,390 rooms compared to 473 agreements representing 36,105 rooms executed in the same period of 2012. An application received does not always result in an executed franchise agreement during the year received or at all due to various factors, such as financing and agreement on all contractual terms. During 2013, 89 of the executed agreements were for new construction hotel franchises, representing 6,330 rooms, compared to 86 contracts, representing 6,414 rooms for 2012. The increase in new construction franchise agreements primarily reflects a gradual improvement of the lending environment for hotel construction and improving lodging fundamentals including an increasing RevPAR environment and low industry supply growth which are typically a catalyst for increased construction of new hotels.
Conversion hotel franchise executed contracts totaled 441 representing 35,060 rooms for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to 387 agreements representing 29,691 rooms for the year ended December 31, 2012. Conversion hotel franchise agreements included large multi-unit transactions in both 2012 and 2013. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company executed 24 Ascend Hotel Collection franchise agreements in conjunction with a strategic alliance entered into with BlueGreen Vacation Resorts. Conversion franchise results for the year ended December 31, 2012 included 46 hotels previously operated under the Jameson brand which were converted to the Company's Comfort (2 hotels), Quality Inn (42 hotels) and Econo Lodge (2 hotels) brands. Excluding these multi-unit transactions, conversion franchise sales increased by 76 contracts or 22% primarily due to increased franchise sales for the Company's Comfort, Econo Lodge and Ascend Hotel Collection brands.
The number of franchise applications received and the number of franchise agreements executed are dependent on the availability of hotel financing, cost of capital and the presence of an active real estate market. Improvements in these areas should serve as a positive catalyst in the number of franchise applications received and ultimately the number of franchise agreements executed.
A summary of executed domestic franchise agreements by brand for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
2013 | 2012 | % Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
New Construction | Conversion | Total | New Construction | Conversion | Total | New Construction | Conversion | Total | ||||||||||||||||||
Comfort Inn | 18 | 54 | 72 | 23 | 36 | 59 | (22 | )% | 50 | % | 22 | % | ||||||||||||||
Comfort Suites | 16 | 9 | 25 | 12 | 5 | 17 | 33 | % | 80 | % | 47 | % | ||||||||||||||
Sleep | 20 | 5 | 25 | 25 | 2 | 27 | (20 | )% | 150 | % | (7 | )% | ||||||||||||||
Quality | 1 | 137 | 138 | — | 170 | 170 | NM | (19 | )% | (19 | )% | |||||||||||||||
Clarion | 1 | 21 | 22 | — | 22 | 22 | NM | (5 | )% | — | % | |||||||||||||||
Econo Lodge | 2 | 87 | 89 | — | 59 | 59 | NM | 47 | % | 51 | % | |||||||||||||||
Rodeway | 1 | 70 | 71 | — | 71 | 71 | NM | (1 | )% | — | % | |||||||||||||||
MainStay | 11 | 2 | 13 | 12 | 1 | 13 | (8 | )% | 100 | % | — | % | ||||||||||||||
Suburban | 9 | 5 | 14 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 200 | % | 25 | % | 100 | % | ||||||||||||||
Ascend Hotel Collection | 5 | 51 | 56 | 4 | 17 | 21 | 25 | % | 200 | % | 167 | % | ||||||||||||||
Cambria Suites | 5 | — | 5 | 7 | — | 7 | (29 | )% | NM | (29 | )% | |||||||||||||||
Total Domestic System | 89 | 441 | 530 | 86 | 387 | 473 | 3 | % | 14 | % | 12 | % | ||||||||||||||
Relicensing fees include fees charged to the new owners of a franchised property whenever an ownership change occurs and the property remains in the franchise system as well as fees required to renew expiring franchise contracts. Domestic relicensing contracts increased 19% from 216 during 2012 to 258 for the year ended December 31, 2013. Renewals of expired contracts increased 48% from 21 for the year ended December 31, 2012 to 31 during the current year. As a result of the 22% increase in relicensing and renewal contracts and an increase in average fees per deal, domestic relicensing and renewal revenues increased 29% from $5.0 million in 2012 to $6.4 million for 2013.
As of December 31, 2013, the Company had 422 franchised hotels with 31,786 rooms under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in its domestic system as compared to 394 hotels and 31,118 rooms at December 31,
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2012. The number of new construction franchised hotels in the Company’s domestic pipeline declined 2% to 235 at December 31, 2013 from 240 at December 31, 2012. The growth in the number of new construction hotels in the domestic pipeline continues to be negatively impacted by the limited availability of hotel construction financing. As a result, the ability of new and existing projects to obtain financing and commence construction has been significantly impacted and has resulted in the execution of fewer franchise agreements for new construction hotels than historically achieved. The number of conversion franchised hotels in the Company’s domestic pipeline increased by 33 units or 21% from December 31, 2012 to 187 hotels at December 31, 2013 primarily due to the 14% increase in conversion franchise agreements achieved in 2012 compared to 2013 and the timing of hotel openings.
A summary of the domestic franchised hotels under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development at December 31, 2013 and 2012 by brand is as follows:
December 31, 2013 | December 31, 2012 | Variance | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion | New Construction | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion | New Construction | Total | Conversion | New Construction | Total | Units | % | Units | % | Units | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Comfort Inn | 44 | 53 | 97 | 33 | 49 | 82 | 11 | 33 | % | 4 | 8 | % | 15 | 18 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Comfort Suites | 4 | 47 | 51 | 1 | 72 | 73 | 3 | 300 | % | (25 | ) | (35 | %) | (22 | ) | (30 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
Sleep | 1 | 49 | 50 | 1 | 43 | 44 | — | — | % | 6 | 14 | % | 6 | 14 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Quality | 48 | 3 | 51 | 36 | 3 | 39 | 12 | 33 | % | — | — | % | 12 | 31 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Clarion | 8 | 2 | 10 | 12 | 1 | 13 | (4 | ) | (33 | %) | 1 | 100 | % | (3 | ) | (23 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
Econo Lodge | 26 | 2 | 28 | 24 | — | 24 | 2 | 8 | % | 2 | NM | 4 | 17 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Rodeway | 38 | 1 | 39 | 35 | — | 35 | 3 | 9 | % | 1 | NM | 4 | 11 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
MainStay | 2 | 31 | 33 | — | 25 | 25 | 2 | NM | 6 | 24 | % | 8 | 32 | % | |||||||||||||||||||||
Suburban | 6 | 16 | 22 | 1 | 15 | 16 | 5 | 500 | % | 1 | 7 | % | 6 | 38 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Ascend Hotel Collection | 10 | 10 | 20 | 11 | 7 | 18 | (1 | ) | (9 | %) | 3 | 43 | % | 2 | 11 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Cambria Suites | — | 21 | 21 | — | 25 | 25 | — | NM | (4 | ) | (16 | %) | (4 | ) | (16 | %) | |||||||||||||||||||
187 | 235 | 422 | 154 | 240 | 394 | 33 | 21 | % | (5 | ) | (2 | %) | 28 | 7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
The Company had an additional 81 franchised hotels with 7,171 rooms under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in its international system as of December 31, 2013 compared to 88 hotels and 7,851 rooms at December 31, 2012. While the Company’s hotel pipeline provides a strong platform for growth, a hotel in the pipeline does not always result in an open and operating hotel due to various factors.
Procurement Services: Revenues increased $2.7 million or 15% from $18.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to $20.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The increase in procurement services revenue primarily reflects the implementation of new brand programs as well as an increased volume of business transacted with existing and new qualified vendors and strategic alliance partners.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses: The cost to operate the franchising business is reflected in SG&A on the consolidated statements of income. SG&A expenses were $113.6 million for 2013, an increase of $11.7 million from the 2012 total of $101.9 million.
SG&A expenses for the year end December 31, 2013 and 2012 include approximately $11.5 million and $3.4 million, respectively related to the Company's new division, SkyTouch. SkyTouch is a division of the Company that develops and markets cloud-based technology products to hoteliers not under franchise agreements with the Company. The new division was announced to the public in March 2013 and the increase in expenses primarily relate to business development, sales and marketing and continued software development.
Excluding the SG&A expenses for the SkyTouch division, SG&A for the year end December 31, 2013 increased $3.6 million or 4% from $98.5 million in the prior year to $102.1 million in the current year. The fluctuations in SG&A include a $1.3 million increase in occupancy costs related to the relocation of the Company's corporate headquarters and a $2.1 million increase in variable franchise sales compensation and procurement services expenses which increased due to a 26% and 15% increase in initial franchise and procurement services revenues, respectively. In addition, compensation expense recognized on deferred compensation arrangements increased $1.3 million. The increase in compensation expense reflects the increase in the fair value of investments held in the Company's Non-Qualified and Executive Deferred Compensation Plan ("EDCP") retirement and savings plans. The increase in deferred compensation expenses are partially offset by investment gains recorded
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in other gains and losses. These increases in the current year SG&A expenses were partially offset by a loss on settlement of the Company's pension plan totaling $1.8 million recognized during the year ended December 31, 2012 resulting from the recognition of previously unrecognized actuarial losses which had been recorded as a component of the Company's accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Company's consolidated balance sheets. In addition, expenses declined by $3.3 million resulting from lower management incentive plan compensation earned based on Company earnings per share performance.
Depreciation and Amortization: Expenses increased $1.2 million from $8.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 to $9.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The increase in depreciation and amortization expenses primarily reflects additional capital expenditures incurred in conjunction with the Company's relocation of its corporate headquarters in April 2013 as well as an increase in amortization related to the issuance of forgivable notes receivable in conjunction with brand and development programs.
Marketing and Reservations: The Company’s franchise agreements require the payment of franchise fees, which include marketing and reservation system fees. The fees, which are primarily based on a percentage of the franchisees’ gross room revenues, are used exclusively by the Company for expenses associated with providing franchise services such as central reservation systems, national marketing and media advertising. The Company is contractually obligated to expend the marketing and reservation system fees it collects from franchisees in accordance with the franchise agreements; as such, no income or loss to the Company is generated.
Total marketing and reservation system revenues were $403.1 million and $384.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The increase in revenues was primarily due to improved system fees resulting from system growth and RevPAR increases as well as increased revenues from the Choice Privileges loyalty program resulting from the growth in program membership. Depreciation and amortization attributable to marketing and reservation activities was $16.0 million and $14.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Interest expense attributable to reservation activities was $3.7 million and $4.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company’s balance sheets include deferred costs of $19.1 million and $42.2 million, respectively resulting from cumulative marketing and reservation expenses incurred in excess of cumulative system fee revenues earned. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company collected $23.1 million of marketing and reservation system revenue in excess of expense incurred compared to $11.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. The fees collected in excess of expenses incurred were utilized to reimburse the Company for a portion of the outstanding cumulative advances for marketing and reservation expenses. This resulted in expense recognition of an equivalent amount of previously unrecognized costs. The increase in excess fees collected in 2013 compared to 2012 primarily reflects increased revenues related to growth in the number of units, RevPAR in the franchise system and the size of the Company's loyalty program.
The decline in cumulative advances for marketing and reservation activities since December 31, 2012 reflects the Company's strategy to recover prior year advances for marketing and reservation activities in future periods. Costs incurred in excess of fees collected are deferred and recorded as an asset in the financial statements as the Company has the contractual authority to recover the deficits incurred related to marketing and reservation activities from the franchisees in the system at any given point in time. The Company’s current franchisees are contractually obligated to pay any assessment the Company imposes on its franchisees to obtain reimbursement of such deficit regardless of whether those constituents continue to generate gross room revenue and whether or not they joined the system following the deficit’s occurrence. The Company expects to recover the deferred costs over a period of time by expending fewer amounts on marketing and reservation activities than marketing and reservation system fees collected, depending on the marketing and reservation needs of the system. Conversely, cumulative marketing and reservation system fees not expended are recorded as a liability in the financial statements and are carried over to the next fiscal year and expended in accordance with the franchise agreements.
Interest Expense: Interest expense increased $15.3 million from the prior year to $42.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 due to the issuance of the Company's $400 million senior notes due in 2022 with an effective rate of 5.94% on June 27, 2012 as well as the $350 million senior secured credit facility entered into by the Company on July 25, 2012. The Company utilized the proceeds from these debt issuances to pay a special cash dividend on August 23, 2012 totaling approximately $600.7 million to common stockholders.
Loss on Extinguishment of Debt: In conjunction with the refinancing of the Company's $300 million revolving credit facility, which was scheduled to mature in February 2016, the Company recognized a $0.5 million loss on extinguishment of debt during the year ended December 31, 2012.
Other Gains and Losses: Other gains and losses decreased $0.2 million from a gain of $2.0 million in 2012 to a gain of $1.8 million in 2013 primarily due to the fluctuations in the fair value of investments held in the Company's non-qualified employee benefit plans.
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As discussed in the accompanying critical accounting policies, the Company sponsors two non-qualified retirement and savings plans: the Non-Qualified Plan and the EDCP plan. The fair value of the Non-Qualified Plan investments increased $1.3 million during 2013 compared to an appreciation of $0.8 million in the fair value during 2012. The fair value of the Company's investments held in the EDCP plan increased $0.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to an appreciation in fair value of $1.2 million during the same period of the prior year.
The Company accounts for the EDCP Plan and Non-Qualified Plan in accordance with accounting for deferred compensation arrangements when investments are held in a rabbi trust and invested. Therefore, the Company also recognizes compensation expense or benefits in SG&A related to changes in the fair value of investments held in the Non-Qualified Plan and a portion of the investments held in the EDCP Plan, excluding investments in the Company's stock. As a result, during the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company's SG&A expense was increased by $2.2 million and $1.0 million respectively, due to the change in fair value of these investments.
Income Taxes: In 2013 and 2012, the effective income tax rates were 28.2% and 28.7%, respectively. The effective income tax rate for the period ended December 31, 2013 was lower than the United States federal statutory rate of 35% primarily due to the recurring impact of foreign operations, partially offset by state income taxes, and reflects adjustments to our federal accruals. Additionally, the effective income tax rate was further reduced by the settlement of unrecognized tax positions and legislation retroactively extending the U.S. controlled foreign corporation look-through rules. The effective income tax rate for the period ended December 31, 2012 was lower than the United States federal statutory rate of 35% primarily due to the recurring impact of foreign operations, partially offset by state income taxes. Additionally, the 2012 effective income tax rate includes a $4.5 million benefit related to a change in estimate of the benefit from foreign operations.
Net Income and Diluted EPS: Diluted EPS declined 8% to $1.91 for 2013 from the $2.07 reported for 2012 due to a 7% decline in net income. The decline in net income reflects the items discussed above.
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Operations Review
Comparison of 2012 and 2011 Operating Results
Summarized financial results for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 are as follows:
2012 | 2011 | ||||||
(In thousands, except per share amounts) | |||||||
REVENUES: | |||||||
Royalty fees | $ | 260,782 | $ | 245,426 | |||
Initial franchise and relicensing fees | 14,203 | 14,052 | |||||
Procurement services | 17,962 | 18,111 | |||||
Marketing and reservation | 384,784 | 349,036 | |||||
Hotel operations | 4,573 | 4,356 | |||||
Other | 9,205 | 7,812 | |||||
Total revenues | 691,509 | 638,793 | |||||
OPERATING EXPENSES: | |||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 101,852 | 106,404 | |||||
Depreciation and amortization | 8,226 | 8,024 | |||||
Marketing and reservation | 384,784 | 349,036 | |||||
Hotel operations | 3,505 | 3,466 | |||||
Total operating expenses | 498,367 | 466,930 | |||||
Operating income | 193,142 | 171,863 | |||||
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSES: | |||||||
Interest expense | 27,189 | 12,939 | |||||
Interest income | (1,540 | ) | (1,306 | ) | |||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | 526 | — | |||||
Other (gains) and losses | (1,989 | ) | 2,442 | ||||
Equity in net income of affiliates | (212 | ) | (269 | ) | |||
Other income and expenses, net | 23,974 | 13,806 | |||||
Income before income taxes | 169,168 | 158,057 | |||||
Income taxes | 48,481 | 47,661 | |||||
Net income | $ | 120,687 | $ | 110,396 | |||
Diluted earnings per share | $ | 2.07 | $ | 1.85 | |||
Results of Operations
The Company recorded net income of $120.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, a $10.3 million or 9% increase from the year ended December 31, 2011. The increase in net income for the year ended December 31, 2012 is primarily attributable to a $21.3 million or 12% increase in operating income and a lower effective income tax rate than the prior year. Net income was further increased by a $4.4 million decline in other (gains) and losses. The decline in other (gains) and losses was due to a $2.0 million appreciation in the fair value of investments held in the Company's non-qualified benefit plans compared to a decline of $0.6 million in the fair value of these investments in the prior year and a $1.8 million loss on assets held for sale incurred in the prior year. These items were partially offset by a $14.3 million increase in interest expense resulting from the issuance of debt to finance the Company's $600.7 million special dividend paid on August 23, 2012 and a $0.5 million loss on extinguishment of debt incurred as a result of refinancing the Company's $300 million revolving credit facility which was scheduled to mature in February 2016.
Adjusted EBITDA increased $21.5 million or 12% as the Company’s franchising revenues increased by $16.8 million or 6% and SG&A expenses declined $4.6 million or 4%. The key drivers of these fluctuations are described in more detail below.
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Franchising Revenues: Franchising revenues were $302.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 compared to $285.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, a 6% increase. The increase in franchising revenues is primarily due to a $15.4 million or 6% increase in royalty revenues and a $1.4 million or 18% increase in other revenue.
Royalty Fees
Domestic royalty fees for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased $15.5 million to $235.7 million from $220.3 million in 2011, an increase of 7%. The increase in domestic royalties is attributable to a combination of factors including a 6.2% increase in domestic RevPAR, a 0.8% increase in the number of domestic franchised hotel rooms and a 1 basis point increase in the effective royalty rate of the domestic hotel system from 4.32% in 2011 to 4.33% in 2012. System-wide RevPAR increased due to a 200 basis point increase in occupancy rates and a 2.5% increase in average daily rates.
A summary of the Company’s domestic franchised hotels operating information for the years ending December 31, 2012 and 2011 is as follows:
2012* | 2011* | Change | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Average Daily Rate | Occupancy | RevPAR | Average Daily Rate | Occupancy | RevPAR | Average Daily Rate | Occupancy | RevPAR | |||||||||||||||||||||
Comfort Inn | $ | 81.55 | 59.4 | % | $ | 48.42 | $ | 79.41 | 57.5 | % | $ | 45.62 | 2.7 | % | 190 | bps | 6.1% | ||||||||||||
Comfort Suites | 85.47 | 61.7 | % | 52.74 | 83.72 | 58.6 | % | 49.09 | 2.1 | % | 310 | bps | 7.4% | ||||||||||||||||
Sleep | 72.40 | 56.3 | % | 40.77 | 69.96 | 53.6 | % | 37.49 | 3.5 | % | 270 | bps | 8.7% | ||||||||||||||||
Quality | 69.46 | 51.6 | % | 35.85 | 67.75 | 50.0 | % | 33.86 | 2.5 | % | 160 | bps | 5.9% | ||||||||||||||||
Clarion | 74.94 | 49.4 | % | 37.03 | 73.89 | 46.9 | % | 34.64 | 1.4 | % | 250 | bps | 6.9% | ||||||||||||||||
Econo Lodge | 55.78 | 48.5 | % | 27.05 | 54.71 | 47.5 | % | 25.96 | 2.0 | % | 100 | bps | 4.2% | ||||||||||||||||
Rodeway | 53.36 | 50.8 | % | 27.13 | 51.87 | 48.7 | % | 25.27 | 2.9 | % | 210 | bps | 7.4% | ||||||||||||||||
MainStay | 69.34 | 70.4 | % | 48.81 | 66.16 | 67.7 | % | 44.80 | 4.8 | % | 270 | bps | 9.0% | ||||||||||||||||
Suburban | 41.61 | 69.7 | % | 29.01 | 40.26 | 67.5 | % | 27.15 | 3.4 | % | 220 | bps | 6.9% | ||||||||||||||||
Ascend Hotel Collection | 113.33 | 64.4 | % | 72.94 | 113.59 | 60.3 | % | 68.44 | (0.2 | )% | 410 | bps | 6.6% | ||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 73.60 | 55.5 | % | $ | 40.84 | $ | 71.83 | 53.5 | % | $ | 38.44 | 2.5 | % | 200 | bps | 6.2% | ||||||||||||
____________________________
* Operating statistics represent hotel operations from December through November and exclude Cambria Suites since the operating statistics are not representative of a stabilized brand, which the Company defines as having at least 25 units open and operating for a twelve month period.
The number of domestic rooms on-line increased to 396,102 rooms as of December 31, 2012 from 392,826 as of December 31, 2011, an increase of 3,276 rooms or 0.8%. The total number of domestic hotels on-line increased by 82 units or 1.6% to 5,083 as of December 31, 2012 from 5,001 as of December 31, 2011.
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A summary of the domestic hotels and available rooms at December 31, 2012 and 2011 by brand is as follows:
December 31, 2012 | December 31, 2011 | Variance | |||||||||||||||||||||
Hotels | Rooms | Hotels | Rooms | Hotels | % | Rooms | % | ||||||||||||||||
Comfort Inn | 1,349 | 105,471 | 1,399 | 109,330 | (50 | ) | (3.6 | )% | (3,859 | ) | (3.5 | %) | |||||||||||
Comfort Suites | 597 | 46,045 | 616 | 47,738 | (19 | ) | (3.1 | )% | (1,693 | ) | (3.5 | )% | |||||||||||
Sleep | 387 | 28,087 | 394 | 28,568 | (7 | ) | (1.8 | )% | (481 | ) | (1.7 | )% | |||||||||||
Quality | 1,152 | 98,078 | 1,047 | 91,502 | 105 | 10.0 | % | 6,576 | 7.2 | % | |||||||||||||
Clarion | 191 | 27,441 | 189 | 27,527 | 2 | 1.1 | % | (86 | ) | (0.3 | %) | ||||||||||||
Econo Lodge | 817 | 49,951 | 797 | 49,483 | 20 | 2.5 | % | 468 | 0.9 | % | |||||||||||||
Rodeway | 410 | 23,370 | 388 | 21,627 | 22 | 5.7 | % | 1,743 | 8.1 | % | |||||||||||||
MainStay | 41 | 3,165 | 40 | 3,093 | 1 | 2.5 | % | 72 | 2.3 | % | |||||||||||||
Suburban | 63 | 7,291 | 60 | 7,126 | 3 | 5.0 | % | 165 | 2.3 | % | |||||||||||||
Ascend Hotel Collection | 57 | 4,982 | 52 | 4,617 | 5 | 9.6 | % | 365 | 7.9 | % | |||||||||||||
Cambria Suites | 19 | 2,221 | 19 | 2,215 | — | — | % | 6 | 0.3 | % | |||||||||||||
Total Domestic Franchises | 5,083 | 396,102 | 5,001 | 392,826 | 82 | 1.6 | % | 3,276 | 0.8 | % | |||||||||||||
Domestic hotels open and operating increased by 82 hotels during the year ended December 31, 2012 compared to an increase of 8 domestic hotels open and operating during the year ended December 31, 2011. Gross domestic franchise additions increased from 256 for the year ended December 31, 2011 to 308 for the same period in 2012. New construction hotels represented 27 of the gross domestic additions during year ended December 31, 2012 compared to 29 hotels in the same period of the prior year. Gross domestic additions for conversion hotels during the year ended December 31, 2012 increased by 54 from 227 hotels during the year ended December 31, 2011 to 281 hotels. The increase in the number of conversion hotel openings primarily reflects a forty percent increase in executed franchise agreements driven primarily by a developer incentive established for the Company's Quality, Clarion and Econo Lodge brands as well as the conversion of 46 hotels previously operated under the Jameson brand to the Company's Comfort (2 hotels), Quality Inn (42 hotels) and Econo Lodge (2 hotels) brands in December 2012.
Net domestic franchise terminations declined by 22 units from 248 for the year ended December 31, 2011 to 226 for the year ended December 31, 2012. The decline in net terminations is primarily due to a decline in the number of hotels removed for the non-payment of franchise fees as well as increased retention efforts implemented by the Company to reduce the number of terminations as the overall industry supply growth continued to be lower than historical levels. Despite this decline, the Company continued to execute its strategy to replace franchised hotels that do not meet our brand standards or are under-performing in their market.
International royalties decreased $0.1 million from $25.2 million in the year ended December 31, 2011 to $25.1 million for the same period in 2012 primarily due to the negative impact of foreign currency fluctuations and a slight decline in the number of rooms in the international system. International available rooms declined by 1,228 rooms to 103,151 as of December 31, 2012 from 104,379 as of December 31, 2011. The total number of international hotels on-line decreased 17 from 1,177 at December 31, 2011 to 1,160 as of December 31, 2012.
Initial Franchise and Relicensing Fees
During 2012, the Company received 750 applications for new franchise agreements (not including relicensing of existing agreements) compared to 600 in 2011. These applications resulted in 473 new domestic franchise agreements executed during 2012 representing 36,105 rooms compared to 332 agreements representing 28,685 rooms executed in the same period of 2011. An application received does not always result in an executed franchise agreement during the year received or at all due to various factors, such as financing and agreement on all contractual terms. During 2012, 86 of the executed agreements were for new construction hotel franchises, representing 6,414 rooms, compared to 55 contracts, representing 4,712 rooms for 2011. Conversion hotel franchise executed contracts totaled 387 representing 29,691 rooms for the year ended December 31, 2012 compared to 277 agreements representing 23,973 rooms for the year ended December 31, 2011. The increase in the number of conversion executed franchise agreements primarily reflects the impact of a developer incentive established for the Company's Quality, Clarion and Econo Lodge brands as well as the conversion of 46 hotels previously operated under the Jameson brand to the Company's Comfort (2 hotels), Quality Inn (42 hotels) and Econo Lodge (2 hotels) brands in December 2012. The increase in new construction franchise agreements primarily reflects a gradual improvement of the lending environment for
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hotel construction and improving lodging fundamentals including an increasing RevPAR environment and low industry supply growth which are typically a catalyst for increased construction of new hotels.
Domestic initial fee revenue, included in the initial franchise and relicensing fees caption above, generated from executed franchise agreements decreased 8% to $8.7 million for 2012 from $9.5 million for 2011. Initial franchise fee revenue declined despite a 42% increase in the number of new executed franchise agreements primarily due to the recognition of deferred revenue during 2011 related to franchise agreements containing developer incentives that were executed in prior years. Revenues associated with agreements including incentives are deferred and recognized when the incentive criteria are met or the agreement is terminated, whichever comes first. In addition, due to the increased use of developer incentives in 2012, a greater percentage of the initial franchise fee revenue has been deferred to future periods than the amount of revenue deferred in 2011.
A summary of executed domestic franchise agreements by brand for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 is as follows:
2012 | 2011 | % Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
New Construction | Conversion | Total | New Construction | Conversion | Total | New Construction | Conversion | Total | ||||||||||||||||||
Comfort Inn | 23 | 36 | 59 | 12 | 46 | 58 | 92 | % | (22 | )% | 2 | % | ||||||||||||||
Comfort Suites | 12 | 5 | 17 | 12 | 4 | 16 | — | % | 25 | % | 6 | % | ||||||||||||||
Sleep | 25 | 2 | 27 | 9 | 2 | 11 | 178 | % | — | % | 145 | % | ||||||||||||||
Quality | — | 170 | 170 | — | 80 | 80 | NM | 113 | % | 113 | % | |||||||||||||||
Clarion | — | 22 | 22 | — | 19 | 19 | NM | 16 | % | 16 | % | |||||||||||||||
Econo Lodge | — | 59 | 59 | 1 | 56 | 57 | (100 | )% | 5 | % | 4 | % | ||||||||||||||
Rodeway | — | 71 | 71 | — | 49 | 49 | NM | 45 | % | 45 | % | |||||||||||||||
MainStay | 12 | 1 | 13 | 6 | 3 | 9 | 100 | % | (67 | )% | 44 | % | ||||||||||||||
Suburban | 3 | 4 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 9 | (40 | )% | — | % | (22 | )% | ||||||||||||||
Ascend Hotel Collection | 4 | 17 | 21 | 2 | 14 | 16 | 100 | % | 21 | % | 31 | % | ||||||||||||||
Cambria Suites | 7 | — | 7 | 8 | — | 8 | (13 | )% | NM | (13 | )% | |||||||||||||||
Total Domestic System | 86 | 387 | 473 | 55 | 277 | 332 | 56 | % | 40 | % | 42 | % | ||||||||||||||
Relicensing fees include fees charged to the new owners of a franchised property whenever an ownership change occurs and the property remains in the franchise system as well as fees required to renew expiring franchise contracts. Domestic relicensing contracts increased 45% from 149 during 2011 to 216 for the year ended December 31, 2012. Renewals of expired contracts increased from 13 for the year ended December 31, 2011 to 21 for the year ended December 31, 2012. Although the Company increased the total number of contracts by 46%, domestic relicensing and renewal revenues increased only 24% from $4.0 million in 2011 to $5.0 million for 2012, primarily due to lower average fees charged per property.
As of December 31, 2012, the Company had 394 franchised hotels with 31,118 rooms under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in its domestic system as compared to 408 hotels and 32,586 rooms at December 31, 2011. The number of new construction franchised hotels in the Company’s domestic pipeline declined 13% to 240 at December 31, 2012 from 277 at December 31, 2011. The number of conversion franchised hotels in the Company’s domestic pipeline increased by 23 units or 18% from December 31, 2011 to 154 hotels at December 31, 2012 primarily due to higher franchise sales for the Company's Quality brand resulting from the increased use of incentives to stimulate demand and increased sales of Rodeway hotels. The total domestic system hotels under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development declined 3% from the prior year due to the decline in the number of new construction hotels which were negatively impacted by the limited availability of hotel construction financing. As a result, the ability of existing projects to obtain financing and commence construction was significantly impacted and resulted in the termination of franchise agreements related to hotels that had not yet opened. While the Company’s domestic hotel pipeline provides a strong platform for growth, a hotel in the pipeline does not always result in an open and operating hotel due to various factors.
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A summary of the domestic franchised hotels under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development at December 31, 2012 and 2011 by brand is as follows:
December 31, 2012 | December 31, 2011 | Variance | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion | New Construction | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion | New Construction | Total | Conversion | New Construction | Total | Units | % | Units | % | Units | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Comfort Inn | 33 | 49 | 82 | 29 | 46 | 75 | 4 | 14 | % | 3 | 7 | % | 7 | 9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Comfort Suites | 1 | 72 | 73 | 1 | 90 | 91 | — | — | (18 | ) | (20 | %) | (18 | ) | (20 | %) | |||||||||||||||||||
Sleep | 1 | 43 | 44 | 1 | 49 | 50 | — | — | (6 | ) | (12 | %) | (6 | ) | (12 | %) | |||||||||||||||||||
Quality | 36 | 3 | 39 | 29 | 5 | 34 | 7 | 24 | % | (2 | ) | (40 | %) | 5 | 15 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Clarion | 12 | 1 | 13 | 14 | 1 | 15 | (2 | ) | (14 | %) | — | — | % | (2 | ) | (13 | %) | ||||||||||||||||||
Econo Lodge | 24 | — | 24 | 25 | 2 | 27 | (1 | ) | (4 | %) | (2 | ) | (100 | %) | (3 | ) | (11 | %) | |||||||||||||||||
Rodeway | 35 | — | 35 | 22 | 1 | 23 | 13 | 59 | % | (1 | ) | (100 | %) | 12 | 52 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
MainStay | — | 25 | 25 | 2 | 28 | 30 | (2 | ) | (100 | %) | (3 | ) | (11 | %) | (5 | ) | (17 | %) | |||||||||||||||||
Suburban | 1 | 15 | 16 | 2 | 20 | 22 | (1 | ) | (50 | %) | (5 | ) | (25 | %) | (6 | ) | (27 | %) | |||||||||||||||||
Ascend Hotel Collection | 11 | 7 | 18 | 6 | 4 | 10 | 5 | 83 | % | 3 | 75 | % | 8 | 80 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
Cambria Suites | — | 25 | 25 | — | 31 | 31 | — | NM | (6 | ) | (19 | %) | (6 | ) | (19 | %) | |||||||||||||||||||
154 | 240 | 394 | 131 | 277 | 408 | 23 | 18 | % | (37 | ) | (13 | %) | (14 | ) | (3 | %) | |||||||||||||||||||
The Company had an additional 88 franchised hotels with 7,851 rooms under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in its international system as of December 31, 2012 compared to 82 hotels and 7,089 rooms at December 31, 2011.
Other Revenue: Revenue increased $1.4 million or 18% to $9.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The increase in other revenue is primarily due to an increase in liquidated damage collections related to the early termination of franchise agreements.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses: The cost to operate the franchising business is reflected in SG&A expenses on the consolidated statements of income. SG&A expenses were $101.9 million for 2012, a decrease of $4.6 million from the 2011 total of $106.4 million. SG&A expenses for the year ended December 31, 2012 included $0.5 million related to employee termination benefits, a $1.8 million loss on the settlement of a pension plan and $1.5 million of additional expenses related to a litigation settlement with a former franchise. The loss on the settlement of the pension plan primarily consisted of the recognition of previously unrecognized actuarial losses which had been recorded as a component of the Company's accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Company's consolidated balance sheets. SG&A expenses for the year ended December 31, 2011 included $4.4 million of employee termination benefits and reflect bad debt recoveries on impaired loans totaling $1.2 million. In addition, SG&A expenses for the year ended December 31, 2011 include $1.4 million of lower compensation expense recognized on deferred compensation as described in more detail in Other Income and Expenses.
Excluding the items noted above, SG&A for the year ended December 31, 2012 declined by approximately $6.5 million from the prior year. This decline is due to the measures implemented by the Company in the fourth quarter of 2011 to increase its productivity and streamline services.
Marketing and Reservations: The Company’s franchise agreements require the payment of franchise fees, which include marketing and reservation system fees. The fees, which are primarily based on a percentage of the franchisees’ gross room revenues, are used exclusively by the Company for expenses associated with providing franchise services such as central reservation systems, national marketing and media advertising. The Company is contractually obligated to expend the marketing and reservation system fees it collects from franchisees in accordance with the franchise agreements; as such, no income or loss to the Company is generated.
Total marketing and reservation system revenues increased $35.7 million or 10% from $349.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 to $384.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. The increase in revenue primarily resulted from improved system fees resulting from system growth and RevPAR increases and increasing revenues from the Choice Privileges loyalty program resulting from the growth in program membership and the level of point redemptions during 2012 compared to 2011. Depreciation and amortization attributable to marketing and reservation activities was $14.5 million and $13.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Interest expense attributable to reservation activities was $4.0 million and $4.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
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As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company’s balance sheets include deferred costs of $42.2 million and $54.0 million, respectively resulting from cumulative marketing and reservation expenses incurred in excess of cumulative system fee revenues earned. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company collected $11.8 million of marketing and reservation system revenue in excess of expense incurred. As a result, the fees collected in excess of expenses incurred were utilized to reimburse the Company for a portion of the outstanding cumulative advances for marketing and reservation activities. This resulted in expense recognition of an equivalent amount of previously unrecognized costs. The decline in cumulative advances for marketing and reservation activities from December 31, 2011 to 2012 primarily reflects increased revenues related to the growth of the number of units and RevPAR in the franchise system as well as the Company's strategy to recover prior year advances for marketing and reservation activities in future periods.
Costs incurred in excess of fees collected are deferred and recorded as an asset in the financial statements as the Company has the contractual authority to recover the deficits incurred related to marketing and reservation activities from the franchisees in the system at any given point in time. The Company’s current franchisees are contractually obligated to pay any assessment the Company imposes on its franchisees to obtain reimbursement of such deficit regardless of whether those constituents continue to generate gross room revenue and whether or not they joined the system following the deficit’s occurrence. The Company expects to recover the deferred costs over a period of time by expending fewer amounts on marketing and reservation activities than marketing and reservation system fees collected, depending on the marketing and reservation needs of the system. Conversely, cumulative marketing and reservation system fees not expended are recorded as a liability in the financial statements and are carried over to the next fiscal year and expended in accordance with the franchise agreements.
Other Income and Expenses, Net: Other income and expenses, net, increased $10.2 million to an expense of $24.0 million in 2012 from $13.8 million in 2011 primarily due to the following items:
Interest expense increased $14.3 million from the prior year to $27.2 million in 2012 due to the issuance of the Company's $400 million senior notes due in 2022 with an effective rate of 5.94% on June 27, 2012 as well as the $350 million senior secured credit facility entered into by the Company on July 25, 2012. The Company utilized the proceeds from these debt issuances to pay a special cash dividend on August 23, 2012 totaling approximately $600.7 million to common shareholders.
In conjunction with the refinancing of the Company's $300 million revolving credit facility, which was scheduled to mature in February 2016, the Company recognized a $0.5 million loss on extinguishment of debt.
Other gains and losses decreased $4.4 million from a loss of $2.4 million in 2011 to a gain of $2.0 million in 2012. The decrease in the loss reflects a $1.8 million loss on assets held for sale recorded in 2011 resulting from the Company reducing the carrying amount of a parcel of land held for sale to its estimated fair value. In addition, the decline in other gains and losses reflects fluctuations in the fair value of investments held in the Company's non-qualified employee benefit plans. This activity included a $2.0 million appreciation in the fair value of these investments during 2012 compared to a $0.6 million decline in the fair value of these investments in 2011.
As discussed in the accompanying critical accounting policies, the Company sponsors two non-qualified retirement and savings plans: the Non-Qualified Plan and the EDCP plan. The fair value of the Non-Qualified Plan investments increased $0.8 million during 2012 compared to a decline of $0.5 million in the fair value during 2011. The fair value of the Company's investments held in the EDCP plan appreciated by $1.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2012 compared to a decline in fair value of $0.1 million during the same period of the prior year.
The Company accounts for the EDCP Plan and Non-Qualified Plan in accordance with accounting for deferred compensation arrangements when investments are held in a rabbi trust and invested. Therefore, the Company also recognizes compensation expense or benefits in SG&A related to changes in the fair value of investments held in the Non-Qualified Plan and a portion of the investments held in the EDCP Plan, excluding investments in the Company's stock. As a result, during the year ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company's SG&A expense was increased by $1.0 million and reduced by $0.4 million respectively, due to the change in fair value of these investments.
Income Taxes: In 2012 and 2011, the effective income tax rates were 28.7% and 30.1%, respectively. The effective income tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2012 was lower than the United States federal statutory rate of 35% primarily due to the recurring impact of foreign operations, partially offset by state income taxes. Additionally, the effective income tax rate also includes a $4.5 million benefit related to a change in estimate of the benefit from foreign operations. The effective income tax rate for the period ended December 31, 2011 was lower than the United States federal statutory rate of 35% primarily due to the impact of foreign operations, $1.4 million of changes in unrecognized tax positions and the identification of $2.8 million of additional federal tax benefits, partially offset by state income taxes. Additionally, an adjustment to our current federal taxes payable of $1.4 million reduced the effective tax rate.
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Net Income and Diluted EPS: Diluted EPS increased 12% to $2.07 for 2012 from the $1.85 reported for 2011 due to a 9% increase in net income as well as the repurchases of the Company's common stock. The increase in net income reflects the items discussed above.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Operating Activities
Net cash flows provided by operating activities were $152.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to $150.1 million for the same period of 2012. Cash flow from operating activities increased primarily due to an increase in operating income, a $12.1 million improvement in cash flows from marketing and reservation activities, a $2.6 million decline in net disbursements to franchisees for property improvements and other purposes utilizing forgivable notes receivable and a $12 million decline in the payout of deferred compensation benefits as the prior year cash flows reflected the settlement of the Company's pension plan. These improvements were partially offset by a $26.4 million increase in cash paid for interest due to the issuance of additional debt in June and July of 2012 to pay a special cash dividend in August 2012 totaling approximately $600.7 million
In conjunction with brand and development programs, the Company provides financing to franchisees for property improvements and other purposes in the form of forgivable notes receivable. If the franchisee remains in the system in good standing over the term of the promissory note, the Company forgives the outstanding principal balance and related interest. Since these forgivable notes are predominantly forgiven ratably over the term of the promissory note rather than repaid, the Company classifies the related issuance and collections of these notes as operating activities. During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company's net advances for these purposes totaled $8.3 million, $10.9 million and $3.5 million, respectively. The timing and amount of these cash flows is dependent on various factors including the implementation of various development and brand incentive programs, the level of franchise sales and the timing of hotel openings. At December 31, 2013, the Company had commitments to extend an additional $13.1 million for these purposes provided certain conditions are met by its franchisees, of which $7.8 million is expected to be advanced in the next twelve months. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company announced a property improvement incentive program for its domestic Comfort Inn and Comfort Suites hotels to incent hotel owners to renovate their properties to accelerate improvement of the brand's product quality and consistency, guest satisfaction and brand performance. The Company has committed to provide financing in the form of forgivable promissory notes to qualifying domestic hotels for a portion of their Company approved and completed property improvement expenses. Financing will be provided upon the completion and Company certification of the renovations. At December 31, 2013, the Company had commitments to extended $32.0 million for this purpose provided certain conditions are met by its franchisees. These commitments are expected to be funded in the next twelve months.
Net operating cash provided by marketing and reservation activities totaled $42.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to $30.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The improvement in cash flows from marketing and reservation activities primarily reflects an improvement in marketing and reservation system fees resulting from system size expansion and RevPAR performance, improved financial performance of the Company's loyalty programs and cost management of the Company's customer contact centers. Based on the current economic conditions, the Company expects marketing and reservation activities to provide cash flows from operations ranging between $18 million and $22 million in 2014.
Investing Activities
Cash utilized in investing activities totaled $27.5 million, $47.1 million and $20.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The decline in cash utilized for investing activities from 2012 to 2013 primarily reflects a decline in the amount of cash outlays for mezzanine and other notes receivable, an increase in collections of outstanding mezzanine and other notes receivable and a decline in equity method investments entered into during the year ended December 31, 2013. The decline in cash used in these investing activities was partially offset by an increase in capital expenditures and a decline in proceeds from the sale of investments held in trust related to the Company's deferred compensation plans during the year ended December 31, 2013. Additional information regarding these items is as follows:
During the year ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company sold investments totaling $4.2 million, $11.2 million and $0.6 million, respectively, and utilized the proceeds to distribute participant deferred compensation balances from the Company's non-qualified retirement plans. The decline in proceeds from the sale of investments primarily reflects the timing of employee terminations and their deferred compensation distribution elections.
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During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, capital expenditures totaled $31.5 million, $15.4 million and $10.9 million, respectively. The increase in capital expenditures from 2012 to 2013 primarily reflect tenant improvements related to the relocation of the Company's corporate headquarters and computer equipment purchases made in conjunction with the relocation of the Company's technology data center.
The Company provides financing to franchisees for hotel development efforts and other purposes in the form of mezzanine and other notes receivable. These loans bear interest and are expected to be repaid in accordance with the terms of the loan agreements. During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company advanced $1.1 million, $23.7 million and $9.2 million for these purposes, respectively. In addition, the Company collected $9.7 million, $3.3 million and $4.7 million of these advances during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. At December 31, 2013, the Company had commitments to extend an additional $3.3 million for these purposes within the next twelve months provided certain conditions are met by its franchisees.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company invested $5.7 million, $20.3 million and $5.0 million in joint ventures accounted for under the equity method of accounting. The Company's investment in these joint ventures primarily pertain to ventures that either support the Company's efforts to increase business delivery to its franchisees or promote growth of our emerging brands.
Our board of directors authorized a program which permits us to offer financing, investment and guaranty support to qualified franchisees as well as allows us to acquire and resell real estate to incent franchise development for certain brands in strategic markets. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had approximately $64 million and $68 million invested under this program. Over the next several years, we expect to continue to deploy capital opportunistically pursuant to this program to promote growth of our emerging brands. Our current expectation is that our annual investment in this program will range from $20 million to $40 million per year and we generally expect to recycle these investments within a five year period. However, the amount and timing of the investment in this program will be dependent on market and other conditions.
Financing Activities
Financing cash flows relate primarily to the Company’s borrowings, treasury stock purchases and dividends.
Debt
Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022
On June 27, 2012 the Company issued unsecured notes with a principal amount of $400 million ("the 2012 Senior Notes") at par, bearing a coupon of 5.75% with an effective rate of 5.94%. The 2012 Senior Notes will mature on July 1, 2022, with interest to be paid semi-annually on January 1st and July 1st. The Company utilized the net proceeds of this offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and other offering expenses, together with borrowings under the Company's senior credit facility, to pay the special cash dividend totaling approximately $600.7 million paid to stockholders on August 23, 2012. The Company's 2012 Senior Notes are guaranteed jointly, severally, fully and unconditionally, subject to certain customary limitations by eight wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries.
The Company incurred debt issuance costs in connection with the 2012 Senior Notes totaling approximately $7.5 million. These debt issuance costs are amortized, on a straight-line basis, which is not materially different than the effective interest method, through the maturity of the 2012 Senior Notes. Amortization of these costs is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of income.
The Company may redeem the 2012 Senior Notes at its option at a redemption price equal to the greater of (a) 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed and (b) the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled principal and interest payments from the redemption date to the date of maturity discounted to the redemption date on a semi-annual basis at the Treasury rate, plus 50 basis points.
Senior Unsecured Notes due 2020
On August 25, 2010, the Company issued unsecured senior notes in the principal amount of $250 million (“the 2010 Senior Notes”) at a discount of $0.6 million, bearing a coupon of 5.70% with an effective rate of 6.19%. The 2010 Senior Notes will mature on August 28, 2020, with interest on the 2010 Senior Notes to be paid semi-annually on February 28th and August 28th. The Company used the net proceeds from the offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and other offering expenses, to repay outstanding borrowings and other general corporate purposes. The Company's 2010 Senior Notes are guaranteed jointly, severally, fully and unconditionally, subject to certain customary limitations, by eight wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries.
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The Company may redeem the 2010 Senior Notes at its option at a redemption price equal to the greater of (a) 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed and (b) the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled principal and interest payments from the redemption date to the date of maturity discounted to the redemption date on a semi-annual basis at the Treasury rate, plus 45 basis points.
Senior Secured Credit Facility
On July 25, 2012, the Company entered into a $350 million senior secured credit facility, comprised of a $200 million revolving credit tranche ("the New Revolver") and a $150 million term loan tranche (the "Term Loan") with Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as administrative agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as syndication agent, and a syndication of lenders (the "New Credit Facility"). The New Credit Facility has a final maturity date of July 25, 2016, subject to an optional one-year extension, provided certain conditions are met. Up to $25 million of the borrowings under the New Revolver may be used for letters of credit, up to $10 million of borrowings under the New Revolver may be used for swing-line loans and up to $35 million of borrowings under the New Revolver may be used for alternative currency loans. The Term Loan requires quarterly amortization payments (a) during the first two years, in equal installments aggregating 5% of the original principal amount of the Term Loan per year, (b) during the second two years, in equal installments aggregating 7.5% of the original principal amount of the Term Loan per year, and (c) during the one-year extension period (if exercised), equal installments aggregating 10% of the original principal amount of the Term Loan.
The Company utilized the proceeds from the Term Loan and borrowings from the New Revolver, together with the net proceeds from the 2012 Senior Notes offering, to pay the special cash dividend of approximately $600.7 million in the aggregate to the Company's stockholders on August 23, 2012.
The New Credit Facility is unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by certain of the Company's domestic subsidiaries. The subsidiary guarantors currently include all subsidiaries that guarantee the obligations under the Company's Indenture governing the terms of its 2010 and 2012 Senior Notes.
The New Credit Facility is secured by first priority pledges of (i) 100% of the ownership interests in certain domestic subsidiaries owned by the Company and the guarantors, (ii) 65% of the ownership interests in (a) the top-tier foreign holding company of Choice's foreign subsidiaries, and (b) the domestic subsidiary that owns the top-tier foreign holding company of Choice's foreign subsidiaries and (iii) all presently existing and future domestic franchise agreements (the “Franchise Agreements”) between the Company and individual franchisees, but only to the extent that the Franchise Agreements may be pledged without violating any law of the relevant jurisdiction or conflicting with any existing contractual obligation of the Company or the applicable franchisee. At the time that the maximum total leverage ratio is required to be no greater than 4.00 to 1.00 (beginning of year 4 of the New Credit Facility), the security interest in the Franchise Agreements will be released.
The Company may at any time prior to the final maturity date increase the amount of the New Credit Facility by up to an additional $100 million to the extent that any one or more lenders commit to being a lender for the additional amount and certain other customary conditions are met. Such additional amounts may take the form of an increased revolver or term loan.
The Company may elect to have borrowings under the New Credit Facility bear interest at a rate equal to (i) LIBOR, plus a margin ranging from 200 to 425 basis points based on the Company's total leverage ratio or (ii) a base rate plus a margin ranging from 100 to 325 basis points based on the Company's total leverage ratio.
The New Credit Facility requires the Company to pay a fee on the undrawn portion of the New Revolver, calculated on the basis the average daily unused amount of the New Revolver multiplied by 0.30% per annum.
The Company may reduce the New Revolver commitment and/or prepay the Term Loan in whole or in part at any time without penalty, subject to reimbursement of customary breakage costs, if any. Any Term Loan prepayments made by the Company shall be applied to reduce the scheduled amortization payments in direct order of maturity.
Additionally, the New Credit Facility requires that the Company and its restricted subsidiaries comply with various covenants, including with respect to restrictions on liens, incurring indebtedness, making investments, paying dividends or repurchasing stock, and effecting mergers and/or asset sales. With respect to dividends, the Company may not make any payments if there is an existing event of default or if the payment would create an event of default. In addition, if the Company's total leverage exceeds 4.50 to 1, the Company is generally restricted from paying aggregate dividends in excess of $50 million during any calendar year.
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The New Credit Facility also imposes financial maintenance covenants (as defined in the loan agreement) requiring the Company to maintain:
•a total leverage ratio of not more than 5.75 to 1.00 in year 1, 5.00 to 1.00 in year 2, 4.50 to 1.00 in year 3 and 4.00 to 1.00 thereafter,
•a maximum secured leverage ratio of not more than 2.50 to 1.00 in year 1, 2.25 to 1.00 in year 2, 2.00 to 1.00 in year 3 and 1.75 to 1.00 thereafter, and
•a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of not less than 2.00 to 1.00 in years 1 and 2, 2.25 to 1.00 in year 3 and 2.50 to 1.00 thereafter.
At December 31, 2013, the Company maintained a total leverage ratio of 3.33x, a maximum secured leverage ratio of 0.59x and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 5.56x. At December 31, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the New Credit Facility.
The New Credit Facility includes customary events of default, the occurrence of which, following any applicable cure period, would permit the lenders to, among other things, declare the principal, accrued interest and other obligations of the Company under the New Credit Facility to be immediately due and payable.
The Company incurred debt issuance costs in connection with the New Credit Facility totaling approximately $3.7 million. These debt issuance costs are amortized, on a straight-line basis, which is not materially different than the effective interest method, through the maturity of the New Credit Facility. Amortization of these costs is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of income.
In connection with the entry into the New Credit Facility, the Company's $300 million senior unsecured revolving credit agreement, dated as of February 24, 2011, among the Company, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent, and a syndicate of lenders (the “Old Credit Facility”), was terminated and replaced by the New Credit Facility. The Old Credit Facility permitted the Company to borrow, repay and re-borrow revolving loans until the scheduled maturity date of February 24, 2016. In addition, the Old Credit Facility bore interest, at the Company's election, at either (i) a base rate plus a margin ranging from 5 to 80 basis points based on the Company's credit rating or (ii) LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 105 to 180 basis points based on the Company's credit rating. The Old Credit Facility also required the Company to pay a quarterly facility fee on the full amount of the commitments under the Old Credit Facility (regardless of usage) ranging from 20 to 45 basis points based upon the credit rating of the Company.
At December 31, 2013, the Company had $138.8 million outstanding under the Term Loan and no amounts outstanding under the New Revolver. At December 31, 2012, the Company had $146.3 million outstanding under the Term Loan and $57.0 million under the New Revolver.
Economic Development Loans
The Company entered into economic development agreements with various governmental entities in conjunction with the relocation of its corporate headquarters in April 2013. In accordance with these agreements, the governmental entities agreed to advance approximately $4.4 million to the Company to offset a portion of the corporate headquarter relocation and tenant improvement costs in consideration of the employment of permanent, full-time employees within the jurisdictions. At December 31, 2013, the Company had been advanced approximately $3.4 million pursuant to these agreements and expects to receive the remaining $1.1 million over the next several years, subject to annual appropriations by the governmental entities. These advances bear interest at a rate of 3% per annum.
Repayment of the advances is contingent upon the Company achieving certain performance conditions. Performance conditions are measured annually on December 31st and primarily relate to maintaining certain levels of employment within the various jurisdictions. If the Company fails to meet an annual performance condition, the Company may be required to repay a portion or all of the advances including accrued interest by April 30th following the measurement date. Any outstanding advances at the expiration of the Company's ten year corporate headquarter lease in 2023 will be forgiven in full. The advances will be included in long-term debt in Company's consolidated balance sheets until the Company determines that the future performance conditions will be met over the entire term of the agreement and the Company will not be required to repay the advances. The Company accrues interest on the portion of the advances that it expects to repay. The Company was in compliance with all current performance conditions as of December 31, 2013.
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Regular Quarterly Dividends
The Company currently maintains the payment of a quarterly dividend on its common shares outstanding, however, the declaration of future dividends are subject to the discretion of our board of directors. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company declared and paid cash dividends at a quarterly rate of $0.185 per share. The Company's quarterly dividend rate declared during the year ended December 31, 2013 has remained unchanged from the previous quarterly declarations.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company paid regular quarterly cash dividends totaling $32.8 million, $53.4 million and $43.7 million, respectively. Dividend payments during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, reflect the Company's board of directors decision to pay the regular quarterly dividend initially scheduled to be paid in the first quarter of 2013 in December 2012. As a result, the dividends paid during 2013 reflect three quarterly payments as compared to five payments in the prior year. We expect that cash dividends will continue to be paid in the future, subject to declaration by our board of directors, future business performance, economic conditions, changes in tax regulations and other matters. Based on our present dividend rate and outstanding share count, aggregate annual regular dividends for 2014, would be approximately $43.1 million.
Special Cash Dividend
On July 26, 2012, the Company's board of directors declared a special cash dividend in the amount of $10.41 per share or approximately $600.7 million in the aggregate, which was paid on August 23, 2012. The Company utilized the proceeds from the 2012 Senior Notes and the New Credit Facility for payment of the special cash dividend.
Share Repurchases
No shares of common stock were purchased by the Company under the share repurchase program during the year ended December 31, 2013. Since the program's inception through December 31, 2013, we have repurchased 45.3 million shares (including 33.0 million prior to the two-for-one stock split effected in October 2005) of common stock at a total cost of $1.1 billion. Considering the effect of the two-for-one stock split, the Company has repurchased 78.3 million shares at an average price of $13.89 per share through December 31, 2013. At December 31, 2013 the Company had approximately 1.4 million shares remaining under the current share repurchase authorization. Upon completion of the current authorization, our board of directors will evaluate the advisability of additional share repurchases.
Other items
Approximately $157.4 million of the Company's cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2013 pertains to undistributed earnings of the Company's consolidated foreign subsidiaries. Since the Company's intent is for such earnings to be reinvested by the foreign subsidiaries, the Company has not provided additional United States income taxes on these amounts. While the Company has no intention to utilize these cash and cash equivalents in its domestic operations, any change to this policy would result in the Company incurring additional United States income taxes on any amounts utilized domestically.
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The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2013:
Payment due by period | |||||||||||||||||||
Contractual Obligations | Total | Less than 1 year | 1-3 years | 3-5 years | More than 5 years | ||||||||||||||
(in millions) | |||||||||||||||||||
Long-term debt (1) | $ | 1,107.8 | $ | 49.7 | $ | 209.7 | $ | 74.5 | $ | 773.9 | |||||||||
Capital lease obligations (2) | 2.6 | 1.0 | 1.6 | — | — | ||||||||||||||
Purchase obligations (3) | 52.6 | 47.3 | 4.1 | 0.8 | 0.4 | ||||||||||||||
Operating lease obligations | 92.1 | 11.8 | 23.4 | 20.9 | 36.0 | ||||||||||||||
Other long-term liabilities (4) | 22.6 | — | 2.3 | 1.7 | 18.6 | ||||||||||||||
Total contractual obligations | $ | 1,277.7 | $ | 109.8 | $ | 241.1 | $ | 97.9 | $ | 828.9 | |||||||||
____________________________
(1) | Long-term debt includes principal as well as interest payments. Assumes forward estimates of LIBOR rates as of December 31, 2013 for our variable interest rate debt. |
(2) | Capital lease obligations include interest and related maintenance agreements on the equipment. |
(3) | Purchase obligations also include commitments to provide loan and joint venture financing under various Company programs. |
(4) | Other long-term liabilities primarily consist of deferred compensation plan liabilities. |
The total amount of unrecognized tax positions and the related interest and penalties totaled $5.6 million at December 31, 2013 and is not reflected in the Contractual Obligations table. We have several open tax positions, and it is reasonably possible that the Company's unrecognized tax positions could decrease within the next 12 months by as much as $3.5 million.
The Company believes that cash flows from operations and available financing capacity are adequate to meet the expected future operating, investing and financing needs of the business.
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
On October 9, 2012, the Company entered into a limited payment guaranty with regards to a VIE's $18 million bank loan for the construction of a hotel franchised under one of the Company's brands in the United States. Under the terms of the limited guaranty, the Company has agreed to guarantee 25% of the outstanding principal balance and accrued and unpaid interest, as well as any unpaid expenses incurred by the lender. The limited guaranty shall remain in effect until the maximum amount guaranteed by the Company is paid in full. In addition to the limited guaranty, the Company entered into an agreement in which the Company guarantees the completion of the construction of the hotel and an environmental indemnity agreement which indemnifies the lending institution from and against any damages relating to or arising out of possible environmental contamination issues with regards to the property.
On November 15, 2013, the Company entered into a limited payment guaranty with regards to a VIE's $46.2 million bank loan for the construction of a hotel franchised under one of the Company's brands in the United States. Under the terms of the limited guaranty, the Company has agreed to unconditionally guarantee and become surety for the full and timely payment of the guaranteed outstanding principal balance, as well as any unpaid expenses incurred by the lender. The guarantee is limited to 25% of the outstanding principal balance of the $46.2 million loan due at any time. The limited guaranty shall remain in effect until the maximum amount guaranteed by the Company is repaid in full. The maturity date of the VIE's loan is May 2017.
Critical Accounting Policies
Our accounting policies comply with principles generally accepted in the United States. We have described below those policies that we believe are critical and require the use of complex judgment or significant estimates in their application. Additional discussion of these policies is included in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements.
Revenue Recognition.
We recognize continuing franchise fees, including royalty, marketing and reservations system fees, when earned and receivable from our franchisees. Franchise fees are typically based on a percentage of gross room revenues or the number of
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hotel rooms of each franchisee. Our estimate of the allowance for uncollectible royalty fees is charged to SG&A expense and our estimate of the allowance for uncollectible marketing and reservation system fees is charged to marketing and reservation expenses.
Initial franchise and relicensing fees are recognized, in most instances, in the period the related franchise agreement is executed because the initial franchise and relicensing fees are non-refundable and the Company is not required to provide initial services to the franchisee prior to hotel opening. We defer the initial franchise and relicensing fee revenue related to franchise agreements which include incentives until the incentive criteria are met or the agreement is terminated, whichever occurs first.
The Company may also enter into master development agreements (“MDAs”) with developers that grant limited exclusive development rights and preferential franchise agreement terms for one-time, non-refundable fees. When these fees are not contingent upon the number of agreements executed under the MDA, the Company recognizes the up-front fees pro-rata over the MDA’s contractual life. Fees that are contingent upon the execution of franchise agreements under the MDA are recognized upon execution of the franchise agreement.
The Company recognizes procurement services revenues from qualified vendors when the services are performed or the product delivered, evidence of an arrangement exists, the fee is fixed and determinable and collectability is probable. We defer the recognition of procurement services revenues related to certain upfront fees and recognize them over a period corresponding to the Company’s estimate of the life of the arrangement.
Marketing and Reservation Revenues and Expenses.
The Company's franchise agreements require the payment of certain marketing and reservation system fees, which are used exclusively by the Company for expenses associated with providing franchise services such as national marketing, media advertising, central reservation systems and technology services. The Company is contractually obligated to expend the marketing and reservation system fees it collects from franchisees in accordance with the franchise agreements; as such, no net income or loss to the Company is generated. In accordance with our contracts, we include in marketing and reservation expenses an allocation of costs for certain activities, such as human resources, facilities, legal and accounting, required to carry out marketing and reservation activities.
The Company records marketing and reservation system revenues and expenses on a gross basis since the Company is the primary obligor in the arrangement, maintains the credit risk, establishes the price and nature of the marketing or reservation services and retains discretion in supplier selection. In addition, net advances to and recoveries from the franchise system for marketing and reservation activities are presented as cash flows from operating activities.
Marketing and reservation system fees not expended in the current year are recorded as a liability in the Company's balance sheet and are carried over to the next fiscal year and expended in accordance with the franchise agreements. Shortfall amounts are recorded as an asset in the Company's balance sheet, with a corresponding reduction in costs, and are similarly recovered in subsequent years. Under the terms of the franchise agreements, the Company may advance capital and incur costs as necessary for marketing and reservation activities and recover such advances through future fees. Our current assessment is that the credit risk associated with the cumulative cost advances for marketing and reservation system activities is mitigated due to our contractual right to recover these amounts from a large geographically dispersed group of franchisees. However, our ability to recover these advances may be adversely impacted by certain factors, including, among others, declines in the ability of our franchisees to generate revenues at properties they franchise from us, lower than expected franchise system growth. An extended period of occupancy or room rate declines or a decline in the number of hotel rooms in our franchise system could result in the generation of insufficient funds to recover marketing and reservation advances as well as meet the ongoing marketing and reservation needs of the overall system.
The Company evaluates the recoverability of marketing and reservation costs incurred in excess of cumulative marketing and reservation system revenues earned on a periodic basis. The Company will record a reserve when, based on current information and events, it is probable that it will be unable to recover the cumulative amounts advanced for marketing and reservation activities according to the contractual terms of the franchise agreements. These advances are considered to be unrecoverable if the expected net, undiscounted cash flows from marketing and reservation activities are less than the carrying amount of the asset.
Choice Privileges is our frequent guest incentive marketing program. Choice Privileges enables members to earn points based on their spending levels with our franchisees and, to a lesser degree, through participation in affiliated partners' programs, such as those offered by credit card companies. The points, which we accumulate and track on the members' behalf, may be redeemed for free accommodations or other benefits.
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We provide Choice Privileges as a marketing program to franchised hotels and collect a percentage of program members' room revenue from franchises to operate the program. Revenues are deferred in an amount equal to the estimated fair value of the future redemption obligation. The Company develops an estimate of the eventual redemption rates and point values using various actuarial methods. These judgmental factors determine the required liability attributable to outstanding points. Upon redemption of points, the Company recognizes the previously deferred revenue as well as the corresponding expense relating to the cost of the awards redeemed. Revenues in excess of the estimated future redemption obligation are recognized when earned to reimburse the Company for costs incurred to operate the program, including administrative costs, marketing, promotion and performing member services.
Valuation of Intangibles and Long-Lived Assets
The Company evaluates the potential impairment of property and equipment and other long-lived assets, including franchise rights and other definite-lived intangibles, on an annual basis or whenever an event or other circumstances indicates that we may not be able to recover the carrying value of the asset. Recoverability is measured based on net, undiscounted expected cash flows. Assets are considered to be impaired if the net, undiscounted expected cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the assets. Impairment charges are recorded based upon the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the asset. Significant management judgment is involved in developing these projections, and they include inherent uncertainties. If different projections are used in the current period, the balances for non-current assets could be materially impacted. Furthermore, if management uses different projections or if different conditions occur in future periods, future-operating results could be materially impacted.
The Company evaluates the impairment of goodwill and trademarks with indefinite lives on an annual basis, or during the year if an event or other circumstance indicates that we may not be able to recover the carrying amount of the asset. In evaluating these assets for impairment, the Company first assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If we conclude that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, then no further testing is required. If the conclusion is that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, then a two-step impairment test is performed. The fair value of the Company's net assets is used to determine if goodwill may be impaired. Indefinite life trademarks are considered to be impaired if the net, undiscounted expected cash flows associated with the trademark are less than their carrying amount.
Loan Loss Reserves
The Company segregates its notes receivable for the purposes of evaluating allowances for credit losses between two categories: Mezzanine and Other Notes Receivable and Forgivable Notes Receivable. The Company utilizes the level of security it has in the various notes receivable as its primary credit quality indicator (i.e. senior, subordinated or unsecured) when determining the appropriate allowances for uncollectible loans within these categories.
Mezzanine and Other Notes Receivables
The Company has provided financing to franchisees in support of the development of properties in strategic markets. The Company expects the owners to repay the loans in accordance with the loan agreements, or earlier as the hotels mature and capital markets permit. The Company estimates the collectability and records an allowance for loss on its mezzanine and other notes receivable when recording the receivables in the Company’s financial statements. These estimates are updated quarterly based on available information.
The Company considers a loan to be impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. All amounts due according to the contractual terms means that both the contractual interest payments and the contractual principal payments of a loan will be collected as scheduled in the loan agreement. The Company measures loan impairment based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate or the estimated fair value of the collateral. For impaired loans, the Company establishes a specific impairment reserve for the difference between the recorded investment in the loan and the present value of the expected future cash flows or the estimated fair value of the collateral. The Company applies its loan impairment policy individually to all mezzanine and other notes receivable in the portfolio and does not aggregate loans for the purpose of applying such policy. For impaired loans, the Company recognizes interest income on a cash basis. If it is likely that a loan will not be collected based on financial or other business indicators it is the Company’s policy to charge off these loans to SG&A expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income in the quarter when it is deemed uncollectible. Recoveries of impaired loans are recorded as a reduction of SG&A expenses in the quarter received.
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The Company assesses the collectability of its senior notes receivable by comparing the market value of the underlying assets to the carrying value of the outstanding notes. In addition, the Company evaluates the property’s operating performance, the borrower’s compliance with the terms of the loan and franchise agreements, and all related personal guarantees that have been provided by the borrower. For subordinated or unsecured receivables, the Company assesses the property’s operating performance, the subordinated equity available to the Company, the borrower’s compliance with the terms of the loan and franchise agreements, and the related personal guarantees that have been provided by the borrower.
The Company considers loans to be past due and in default when payments are not made when due. Although the Company considers loans to be in default if payments are not received on the due date, the Company does not suspend the accrual of interest until those payments are more than 30 days past due. The Company applies payments received for loans on non-accrual status first to interest and then principal. The Company does not resume interest accrual until all delinquent payments are received.
Forgivable Notes Receivable
In conjunction with brand and development programs, the Company may provide financing to franchisees for property improvements and other purposes in the form of forgivable promissory notes which bear interest at market rates. Under these promissory notes, the franchisee promises to repay the principal balance together with interest upon maturity unless certain conditions are met throughout the term of the promissory note. The principal balance and related interest are forgiven ratably over the term of the promissory note if the franchisee remains in the system in good standing. If during the term of the promissory note, the franchisee exits our franchise system or is not operating their franchise in accordance with our quality or credit standards, the Company may declare a default under the promissory note and commence collection efforts with respect to the full amount of the then-current outstanding principal and interest.
In accordance with the terms of the promissory notes, the initial principal balance and related interest are ratably reduced over the term of the loan on each anniversary date until the outstanding amounts are reduced to zero as long as the franchisee remains within the franchise system and operates in accordance with our quality and brand standards. As a result, the amounts recorded as an asset on the Company's consolidated balance sheet are also ratably reduced since the amounts forgiven no longer represent probable future economic benefits to the Company. The Company records the reduction of its recorded assets through amortization and marketing and reservation expense on its consolidated statements of income. Since these forgivable promissory notes receivable are predominately forgiven ratably over the term of the promissory note rather than repaid, the Company classifies the issuance and collection of these notes receivable as operating activities in its consolidated statement of cash flows.
The Company fully reserves all defaulted notes in addition to recording a reserve on the estimated uncollectible portion of the remaining notes. For those notes not in default, the Company calculates an allowance for losses and determines the ultimate collectibility on these forgivable notes based on the historical default rates for those unsecured notes that are not forgiven but are required to be repaid. The Company records bad debt expense in SG&A and marketing and reservation system expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income in the quarter when the note is deemed uncollectible.
See Note 3 Notes Receivable for additional information.
Stock Compensation.
The Company’s policy is to recognize compensation cost related to share-based payment transactions in the financial statements based on the fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued. Compensation expense related to the fair value of share-based awards is recognized over the requisite service period based on an estimate of those awards that will ultimately vest. The Company estimates the share-based compensation expense for awards that will ultimately vest upon inception of the grant and adjusts the estimate of share-based compensation for those awards with performance and/or service requirements that will not be satisfied so that compensation cost is recognized only for awards that ultimately vest.
Income Taxes.
Income taxes are recorded using the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. A valuation allowance is provided for deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not such assets will be unrealized. Deferred United States income taxes have not been recorded for temporary differences related to investments in certain foreign subsidiaries and corporate affiliates. The temporary differences consist primarily of undistributed earnings that are considered permanently reinvested in operations outside the United States. If management’s intentions change in the future, deferred taxes may need to be provided.
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With respect to uncertain income tax positions, a tax liability is recorded in full when management determines that the position does not meet the more likely than not threshold of being sustained on examination. A tax liability may also be recognized for a position that meets the more likely than not threshold, based upon management’s assessment of the position’s probable settlement value. The Company records interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits in the provision for income taxes. Additional information regarding the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits is provided in Note 17 to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Pension, Profit Sharing and Incentive Plans
The Company sponsors two non-qualified retirement savings and investment plans for certain employees and senior executives. Employee and Company contributions are maintained in separate irrevocable trusts. Legally, the assets of the trusts remain those of the Company; however, access to the trusts’ assets is severely restricted. The trusts cannot be revoked by the Company or an acquirer, but the assets are subject to the claims of the Company’s general creditors. The participants do not have the right to assign or transfer contractual rights in the trusts.
In 2002, the Company adopted the Choice Hotels International, Inc. Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (“EDCP”) which became effective January 1, 2003. Under the EDCP, certain executive officers may defer a portion of their salary into an irrevocable trust. Prior to January 1, 2010, participants could elect an investment return of either the annual yield of the Moody’s Average Corporate Bond Rate Yield Index plus 300 basis points, or a return based on a selection of available diversified investment options. Effective January 1, 2010, the Moody’s Average Corporate Bond Rate Yield Index plus 300 basis points is no longer an investment option for salary deferrals made on compensation earned after December 31, 2009. The Company recorded current and long-term deferred compensation liabilities of $11.3 million and $11.7 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to these deferrals and credited investment returns. Compensation expense is recorded in SG&A expense on the Company’s consolidated statements of income based on the change in the deferred compensation obligation related to earnings credited to participants as well as changes in the fair value of diversified investments. Compensation expense recorded in SG&A for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $0.9 million, $0.8 million and $0.8 million, respectively.
The Company has invested the employee salary deferrals in diversified long-term investments which are intended to provide investment returns that partially offset the earnings credited to the participants. The diversified investments held in the trusts totaled $4.1 million and $6.0 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are recorded at their fair value, based on quoted market prices. At December 31, 2013, the Company expects $0.4 million of the assets held in the trust to be distributed during the year ended December 31, 2014 to participants. These investments are considered trading securities and therefore the changes in the fair value of the diversified assets is included in other gains and losses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. The Company recorded investment gains (losses) during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 of $0.3 million, $1.2 million, and $(0.1) million, respectively. In addition, the EDCP Plan held shares of the Company's common stock with a market value of $0.2 million and $0.1 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively which were recorded as a component of shareholders' deficit.
In 1997, the Company adopted the Choice Hotels International, Inc. Non-Qualified Retirement Savings and Investment Plan (“Non-Qualified Plan”). The Non-Qualified Plan allows certain employees who do not participate in the EDCP to defer a portion of their salary and invest these amounts in a selection of available diversified investment options. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had recorded a deferred compensation liability of $13.7 million and $11.2 million, respectively related to these deferrals. Compensation expense is recorded in SG&A expense on the Company’s consolidated statements of income based on the change in the deferred compensation obligation related to earnings credited to participants as well as changes in the fair value of diversified investments. The net increase (decrease) in compensation expense recorded in SG&A for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $1.7 million, $0.7 million and $(0.5) million, respectively.
The diversified investments held in the trusts were $12.3 million and $10.2 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are recorded at their fair value, based on quoted market prices. These investments are considered trading securities and therefore the changes in the fair value of the diversified assets are included in other gains and losses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. The Company recorded investment gains (losses) during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 of $1.3 million, $0.8 million and $(0.5) million, respectively. In addition, the Non-Qualified Plan held shares of the Company’s common stock with a market value of $1.4 million and $1.0 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
The Company is subject to risk from changes in debt and equity prices from our non-qualified retirement savings plan investments in debt securities and common stock. The diversified investments held in the Non-Qualified Plan and EDCP include investments primarily in equity and debt securities, and cash and cash equivalents.
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New Accounting Standards
See Footnotes No. 1 “Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance” and Note 28 "Future Adoption of Accounting Standards" of the Notes to our Financial Statements for information related to our adoption of new accounting standards in 2013 and for information on our anticipated adoption of recently issued accounting standards.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain matters discussed in this report constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Generally, our use of words such as "expect," "estimate," "believe," "anticipate," "should," "will," "forecast," "plan," "project," "assume" or similar words of futurity identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current beliefs, assumption and expectations regarding future events, which in turn are based on information currently available to management. Such statements may relate to projections of the Company’s revenue, earnings and other financial and operational measures, Company debt levels, ability to repay outstanding indebtedness, payment of dividends, and future operations, among other matters. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements do not guarantee future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors.
Several factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from those expressed in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to, changes to general, domestic and foreign economic conditions; operating risks common in the lodging and franchising industries; changes to the desirability of our brands as viewed by hotel operators and customers; changes to the terms or termination of our contracts with franchisees; our ability to keep pace with improvements in technology utilized for marketing and reservations systems and other operating systems; fluctuations in the supply and demand for hotels rooms; the level of acceptance of alternative growth strategies we may implement; operating risks associated with our international operations; the outcome of litigation; and our ability to effectively manage our indebtedness. These and other risk factors are discussed in detail in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” of this report. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Item 7A. | Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. |
The Company is exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates and the impact of fluctuations in foreign currencies on the Company’s foreign investments and operations. The Company manages its exposure to these market risks through the monitoring of its available financing alternatives including in certain circumstances the use of derivative financial instruments. We are also subject to risk from changes in debt and equity prices from our non-qualified retirement savings plan investments in debt securities and common stock, which have a carrying value of $16.4 million at December 31, 2013, which we account for as trading securities. The Company will continue to monitor the exposure in these areas and make the appropriate adjustments as market conditions dictate.
At December 31, 2013, the Company had $138.8 million of variable interest rate debt instruments outstanding at an effective rate of 2.2%. A hypothetical change of 10% in the Company’s effective interest rate from December 31, 2013 levels would increase or decrease annual interest expense by $0.3 million. The Company expects to refinance its fixed and variable long-term debt obligations prior to their scheduled maturities.
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Item 8. | Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. |
TABLE OF CONTENTS | |
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
of Choice Hotels International, Inc. and subsidiaries:
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index appearing under Item 15(a)(1) present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Choice Hotels International, Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2013 and 2012 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(2) presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedule, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedule, and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
McLean, Virginia
March 3, 2014
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CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Years Ended December 31, | |||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
(In thousands, except per share amounts) | |||||||||||
REVENUES: | |||||||||||
Royalty fees | $ | 267,229 | $ | 260,782 | $ | 245,426 | |||||
Initial franchise and relicensing fees | 18,686 | 14,203 | 14,052 | ||||||||
Procurement services | 20,668 | 17,962 | 18,111 | ||||||||
Marketing and reservation | 403,099 | 384,784 | 349,036 | ||||||||
Hotel operations | 4,774 | 4,573 | 4,356 | ||||||||
Other | 9,851 | 9,205 | 7,812 | ||||||||
Total revenues | 724,307 | 691,509 | 638,793 | ||||||||
OPERATING EXPENSES: | |||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 113,567 | 101,852 | 106,404 | ||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 9,469 | 8,226 | 8,024 | ||||||||
Marketing and reservation | 403,099 | 384,784 | 349,036 | ||||||||
Hotel operations | 3,678 | 3,505 | 3,466 | ||||||||
Total operating expenses | 529,813 | 498,367 | 466,930 | ||||||||
Operating income | 194,494 | 193,142 | 171,863 | ||||||||
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSES: | |||||||||||
Interest expense | 42,537 | 27,189 | 12,939 | ||||||||
Interest income | (2,547 | ) | (1,540 | ) | (1,306 | ) | |||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | — | 526 | — | ||||||||
Other (gains) and losses | (1,780 | ) | (1,989 | ) | 2,442 | ||||||
Equity in net income of affiliates | (634 | ) | (212 | ) | (269 | ) | |||||
Other income and expenses, net | 37,576 | 23,974 | 13,806 | ||||||||
Income before income taxes | 156,918 | 169,168 | 158,057 | ||||||||
Income taxes | 44,317 | 48,481 | 47,661 | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 112,601 | $ | 120,687 | $ | 110,396 | |||||
Basic earnings per share | $ | 1.92 | $ | 2.08 | $ | 1.86 | |||||
Diluted earnings per share | $ | 1.91 | $ | 2.07 | $ | 1.85 | |||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Years Ended December 31, | |||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||
Net income | $ | 112,601 | $ | 120,687 | $ | 110,396 | |||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: | |||||||||||
Amortization of loss on cash flow hedge | 862 | 862 | 862 | ||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | (2,863 | ) | 237 | 615 | |||||||
Amortization of pension related costs, net of tax: | |||||||||||
Actuarial loss (net of income tax of $48 for the year ended December 31, 2012) | — | 80 | — | ||||||||
Settlement of pension plan (net of income tax of $840 for the year ended December 31, 2012) | — | 1,406 | — | ||||||||
Actuarial pension loss (net of income tax of $649 for the year ended December 31, 2011) | — | — | (1,086 | ) | |||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | (2,001 | ) | 2,585 | 391 | |||||||
Comprehensive income | $ | 110,600 | $ | 123,272 | $ | 110,787 | |||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, 2013 | December 31, 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands, except share amounts) | |||||||
ASSETS | |||||||
Current assets | |||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 167,795 | $ | 134,177 | |||
Receivables (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $11,316 and $10,820, respectively) | 53,521 | 52,270 | |||||
Income taxes receivable | — | 2,732 | |||||
Deferred income taxes | 7,220 | 4,136 | |||||
Investments, employee benefit plans, at fair value | 400 | 3,486 | |||||
Other current assets | 29,710 | 36,669 | |||||
Total current assets | 258,646 | 233,470 | |||||
Property and equipment, at cost, net | 66,092 | 51,651 | |||||
Goodwill | 65,813 | 65,813 | |||||
Franchise rights and other identifiable intangibles, net | 9,953 | 13,473 | |||||
Advances, marketing and reservation activities | 19,127 | 42,179 | |||||
Investments, employee benefit plans, at fair value | 15,950 | 12,755 | |||||
Deferred income taxes | 20,282 | 15,418 | |||||
Other assets | 84,036 | 76,013 | |||||
Total assets | $ | 539,899 | $ | 510,772 | |||
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ DEFICIT | |||||||
Current liabilities | |||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 41,663 | $ | 38,714 | |||
Accrued expenses | 56,625 | 55,552 | |||||
Deferred revenue | 61,188 | 71,154 | |||||
Current portion of long-term debt | 10,088 | 8,195 | |||||
Deferred compensation and retirement plan obligations | 2,492 | 2,522 | |||||
Income taxes payable | 2,282 | — | |||||
Total current liabilities | 174,338 | 176,137 | |||||
Long-term debt | 783,471 | 847,150 | |||||
Deferred compensation and retirement plan obligations | 22,527 | 20,399 | |||||
Other liabilities | 23,808 | 15,990 | |||||
Total liabilities | 1,004,144 | 1,059,676 | |||||
Commitments and Contingencies | |||||||
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 160,000,000 shares authorized; 95,345,362 shares issued at December 31, 2013 and 2012 and 58,638,863 and 58,171,059 shares outstanding at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively | 586 | 582 | |||||
Additional paid-in-capital | 117,768 | 110,246 | |||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (6,217 | ) | (4,216 | ) | |||
Treasury stock (36,706,499 and 37,174,303 shares at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively), at cost | (918,031 | ) | (927,776 | ) | |||
Retained earnings | 341,649 | 272,260 | |||||
Total shareholders’ deficit | (464,245 | ) | (548,904 | ) | |||
Total liabilities and shareholders’ deficit | $ | 539,899 | $ | 510,772 | |||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW
Years Ended December 31, | |||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES | |||||||||||
Net income | $ | 112,601 | $ | 120,687 | $ | 110,396 | |||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | |||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 9,469 | 8,226 | 8,024 | ||||||||
Provision for bad debts, net | 2,724 | 2,896 | 2,160 | ||||||||
Non-cash stock compensation and other charges | 11,271 | 12,375 | 14,511 | ||||||||
Non-cash interest and other (income) loss | 1,545 | 292 | 2,208 | ||||||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | — | 526 | — | ||||||||
Dividends received from equity method investments | 1,445 | 1,310 | 1,139 | ||||||||
Deferred income taxes | (8,024 | ) | (540 | ) | 5,514 | ||||||
Equity in net income of affiliates | (634 | ) | (212 | ) | (269 | ) | |||||
Changes in assets and liabilities: | |||||||||||
Receivables | (6,730 | ) | (5,239 | ) | (7,785 | ) | |||||
Advances to/from marketing and reservation activities, net | 42,405 | 30,313 | 623 | ||||||||
Forgivable notes receivable, net | (8,347 | ) | (10,898 | ) | (3,475 | ) | |||||
Accounts payable | 2,304 | 11 | (1,851 | ) | |||||||
Accrued expenses | (9,595 | ) | 12,376 | 6,346 | |||||||
Income taxes payable/receivable | 4,807 | (3,193 | ) | (4,562 | ) | ||||||
Deferred revenue | (9,861 | ) | 2,188 | 1,523 | |||||||
Other assets | (3,197 | ) | (3,476 | ) | (3,162 | ) | |||||
Other liabilities | 9,857 | (17,520 | ) | 29 | |||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 152,040 | 150,122 | 131,369 | ||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES | |||||||||||
Investment in property and equipment | (31,524 | ) | (15,443 | ) | (10,924 | ) | |||||
Equity method investments | (5,685 | ) | (20,285 | ) | (5,000 | ) | |||||
Issuance of mezzanine and other notes receivable | (1,095 | ) | (23,736 | ) | (9,227 | ) | |||||
Collections of mezzanine and other notes receivable | 9,748 | 3,270 | 4,690 | ||||||||
Purchases of investments, employee benefit plans | (2,676 | ) | (1,697 | ) | (1,602 | ) | |||||
Proceeds from sales of investments, employee benefit plans | 4,168 | 11,223 | 644 | ||||||||
Proceeds from sale of assets | 243 | — | 1,654 | ||||||||
Other items, net | (728 | ) | (433 | ) | (564 | ) | |||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (27,549 | ) | (47,101 | ) | (20,329 | ) | |||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES | |||||||||||
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt | 3,360 | 543,500 | 75 | ||||||||
Net borrowings (repayments) pursuant to revolving credit facilities | (57,000 | ) | 57,000 | (200 | ) | ||||||
Principal payments on long-term debt | (8,204 | ) | (4,422 | ) | (297 | ) | |||||
Debt issuance costs | — | (4,759 | ) | (2,356 | ) | ||||||
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation | 1,460 | 1,559 | 1,227 | ||||||||
Purchase of treasury stock | (3,965 | ) | (22,586 | ) | (53,617 | ) | |||||
Dividends paid | (32,799 | ) | (654,092 | ) | (43,747 | ) | |||||
Proceeds from exercise of stock options | 8,864 | 7,090 | 3,845 | ||||||||
Net cash used in financing activities | (88,284 | ) | (76,710 | ) | (95,070 | ) | |||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | 36,207 | 26,311 | 15,970 | ||||||||
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents | (2,589 | ) | 809 | (172 | ) | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 134,177 | 107,057 | 91,259 | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 167,795 | $ | 134,177 | $ | 107,057 | |||||
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: | |||||||||||
Cash payments during the year for: | |||||||||||
Income taxes, net of refunds | $ | 47,513 | $ | 51,548 | $ | 45,483 | |||||
Interest | $ | 43,327 | $ | 16,954 | $ | 15,527 | |||||
Non-cash investing and financing activities: | |||||||||||
Dividends declared but not paid | $ | 10,785 | $ | 1 | $ | 10,719 | |||||
Equity method investments | $ | — | $ | 3,900 | $ | — | |||||
Capital lease obligation | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 908 | |||||
Debt issuance costs | $ | — | $ | 6,500 | $ | — | |||||
Issuance of restricted shares of common stock | $ | 8,500 | $ | 9,517 | $ | 9,604 | |||||
Issuance of performance vested restricted stock units | $ | 1,298 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||
Issuance of treasury stock to employee stock purchase plan | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 739 | |||||
Investment in property and equipment acquired in accounts payable | $ | 658 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
(In thousands, except share amounts)
Common Stock - Shares Outstanding | Common Stock - Par Value | Additional Paid-in- Capital | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Treasury Stock | Retained Earnings | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||
Balance as of December 31, 2010 | 59,583,770 | $ | 596 | $ | 92,774 | $ | (7,192 | ) | $ | (872,306 | ) | $ | 728,057 | $ | (58,071 | ) | ||||||||||
Net income | — | — | — | — | — | 110,396 | 110,396 | |||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income | — | — | — | 391 | — | — | 391 | |||||||||||||||||||
Exercise of stock options | 175,386 | 2 | 2,913 | — | 707 | — | 3,622 | |||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of restricted stock | 247,298 | 2 | (9,604 | ) | — | 9,602 | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||
Cancellation of restricted stock | (68,580 | ) | — | 2,300 | — | (2,300 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||||||||
Share based compensation on equity awards | — | — | 11,324 | — | — | — | 11,324 | |||||||||||||||||||
Change in excess tax benefits on equity awards | — | — | 2,958 | — | — | — | 2,958 | |||||||||||||||||||
Dividends declared | — | — | — | — | — | (43,506 | ) | (43,506 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Treasury purchases | (1,681,324 | ) | (17 | ) | — | — | (53,600 | ) | — | (53,617 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Issuance of treasury shares | 21,096 | — | — | — | 739 | — | 739 | |||||||||||||||||||
Other | — | — | — | — | 203 | — | 203 | |||||||||||||||||||
Balance as of December 31, 2011 | 58,277,646 | $ | 583 | $ | 102,665 | $ | (6,801 | ) | $ | (916,955 | ) | $ | 794,947 | $ | (25,561 | ) | ||||||||||
Net income | — | — | — | — | — | 120,687 | 120,687 | |||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income | — | — | — | 2,585 | — | — | 2,585 | |||||||||||||||||||
Exercise of stock options | 266,754 | 3 | 3,515 | — | 3,572 | — | 7,090 | |||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of restricted stock | 266,159 | 2 | (9,517 | ) | — | 9,515 | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||
Cancellation of restricted stock | (26,824 | ) | — | 967 | — | (967 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||||||||
Share based compensation on equity awards | — | — | 11,377 | — | — | — | 11,377 | |||||||||||||||||||
Change in excess tax benefits on equity awards | — | — | 1,239 | — | — | — | 1,239 | |||||||||||||||||||
Dividends declared | — | — | — | — | — | (643,374 | ) | (643,374 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Treasury purchases | (612,676 | ) | (6 | ) | — | — | (22,580 | ) | — | (22,586 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Other | — | — | — | — | (361 | ) | — | (361 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Balance as of December 31, 2012 | 58,171,059 | $ | 582 | $ | 110,246 | $ | (4,216 | ) | $ | (927,776 | ) | $ | 272,260 | $ | (548,904 | ) | ||||||||||
Net income | — | — | — | — | — | 112,601 | 112,601 | |||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income | — | — | — | (2,001 | ) | — | — | (2,001 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Exercise of stock options | 347,180 | 2 | 3,486 | — | 5,376 | — | 8,864 | |||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of restricted stock and PVRSU | 265,056 | 3 | (9,798 | ) | — | 9,795 | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||
Cancellation of restricted stock | (40,552 | ) | — | 1,453 | — | (1,453 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||||||||
Share based compensation on equity awards | — | — | 11,417 | — | — | — | 11,417 | |||||||||||||||||||
Change in excess tax benefits on equity awards | — | — | 964 | — | — | — | 964 | |||||||||||||||||||
Dividends declared | — | — | — | — | — | (43,212 | ) | (43,212 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Treasury purchases | (103,880 | ) | (1 | ) | — | — | (3,964 | ) | — | (3,965 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Other | — | — | — | — | (9 | ) | — | (9 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Balance as of December 31, 2013 | 58,638,863 | $ | 586 | $ | 117,768 | $ | (6,217 | ) | $ | (918,031 | ) | $ | 341,649 | $ | (464,245 | ) | ||||||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. | Company Information and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies |
Organization
Choice Hotels International, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and subsidiaries (“the Company”) is primarily in the business of hotel franchising. As of December 31, 2013, the Company had franchise agreements representing 6,340 open hotels and 503 hotels under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in 50 states, the District of Columbia and more than 35 countries and territories outside the United States under the brand names: Comfort Inn®, Comfort Suites®, Quality® , Clarion®, Sleep Inn®, Econo Lodge®, Rodeway Inn®, MainStay Suites®, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel®, Cambria Suites® and Ascend Hotel Collection®.
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements present the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of Choice Hotels International, Inc. and subsidiaries. The Company consolidate entities under our control, including variable interest entities where it is deemed to be the primary beneficiary. Investments in unconsolidated affiliates, including corporate joint ventures and certain other entities, in which the Company owns 50% or less and exercises significant influence over the operating and financial policies of the investee are accounted for by the equity method. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
The consolidated financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") and require management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Accordingly, ultimate results could differ from those estimates.
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements include all adjustments that are necessary to fairly present our financial position and results of operations. Except as otherwise disclosed, all adjustments are of a normal recurring nature.
Revision to Prior Period Financial Statements
In the second quarter of 2013, a misapplication of GAAP was identified related to the presentation of cash flows pursuant to forgivable notes receivable. Previously, the Company applied Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 230 "Statement of Cash Flows" paragraphs 12 and 13 when reporting cash outflows and cash collections related to these notes receivable and as a result reported these items as cash flows from investing activities. Beginning with the second quarter of 2013, the Company has revised its presentation of these cash flows in accordance with ASC 230 paragraphs 22 and 23 to reclassify them to operating activities on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
In conjunction with brand and development programs, the Company issues forgivable notes receivable to qualifying franchisees for property improvements and other purposes. Under the terms of the forgivable promissory notes, the Company ratably reduces the outstanding principal balance and related interest over the term of the loan contingent upon the franchisee remaining within the franchise system and operating in accordance with the terms of the franchise agreement including credit, quality and brand standards. Therefore, the predominant reduction of these notes receivable is through non-cash operating expenses and not cash collections of note receivable amounts. As a result, the Company revised the cash flow classification of these forgivable notes receivable from investing activities to operating activities.
In accordance with ASC 250 (SEC's Staff Accounting Bulletin 99, "Materiality"), the Company assessed the materiality of the misapplication of GAAP and concluded that the reclassification of these cash flows was not material to any of its previously issued annual or interim financial statements. In accordance with the accounting guidance in ASC 250 (SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108, "Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements"), the Company has revised its previously issued financial statements to correct the presentation of these cash flows beginning with the financial statements in the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 9, 2013 for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2013. These revisions did not impact the Company's previously reported net income, comprehensive income, assets, liabilities or shareholders' deficit.
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The following tables present the effect of the correction of the classification of the cash flows related to forgivable notes receivable on selected line items included in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the affected periods included in these Consolidated Financial Statements:
Year Ended December 31, 2012 | Year Ended December 31, 2011 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
As Previously Reported | Adjustment | As Revised | As Previously Reported | Adjustment | As Revised | ||||||||||||||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Forgivable notes receivable, net | $ | — | $ | (10,898 | ) | $ | (10,898 | ) | $ | — | $ | (3,475 | ) | $ | (3,475 | ) | |||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 161,020 | (10,898 | ) | 150,122 | 134,844 | (3,475 | ) | 131,369 | |||||||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of mezzanine and other notes receivable | (34,925 | ) | 11,189 | (23,736 | ) | (12,766 | ) | 3,539 | (9,227 | ) | |||||||||||||
Collections of mezzanine and other notes receivable | 3,561 | (291 | ) | 3,270 | 4,754 | (64 | ) | 4,690 | |||||||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (57,999 | ) | 10,898 | (47,101 | ) | (23,804 | ) | 3,475 | (20,329 | ) | |||||||||||||
Revenue Recognition
The Company enters into franchise agreements to provide franchisees with various marketing services, a centralized reservation system and limited non-exclusive rights to utilize the Company’s registered trade names and trademarks. These agreements typically have an initial term from ten to twenty years with provisions permitting franchisees or the Company to terminate after five, ten, or fifteen years under certain circumstances. In most instances, initial franchise and relicensing fees are recognized upon execution of the franchise agreement because the initial franchise and relicensing fees are non-refundable and the Company is not required to provide initial services to the franchisee prior to hotel opening. The initial franchise and relicensing fees related to executed franchise agreements which include incentives, such as future potential cash rebates or forgivable promissory notes, are deferred and recognized when the incentive criteria are met or the agreement is terminated, whichever occurs first.
The Company may also enter into master development agreements ("MDAs") with developers that grant limited exclusive development rights and preferential franchise agreement terms for one-time, non-refundable fees. When these fees are not contingent upon the number of agreements executed under the MDA, the Company recognizes these up-front fees pro-rata over the MDAs’ contractual life. Fees that are contingent upon the execution of franchise agreements under the MDA are recognized as the franchise agreements are executed.
Royalty and marketing and reservation system revenues, which are typically based on a percentage of gross room revenues or the number of hotel rooms of each franchisee, are recorded when earned and receivable from the franchisee. An estimate of uncollectible revenue is charged to bad debt expense and included in selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") and marketing and reservation expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
The Company generates procurement services revenues from qualified vendors. Procurement services revenues are generally earned based on the level of goods or services purchased from qualified vendors by hotel franchise owners and hotel guests who stay in the Company’s franchised hotels or based on marketing services provided by the Company on behalf of the qualified vendors to hotel owners and guests. The Company recognizes procurement services revenues when the services are performed or the product is delivered, evidence of an arrangement exists, the fee is fixed and determinable and collectibility is probable. The Company defers the recognition of procurement services’ revenues related to upfront fees. Such upfront fees are generally recognized over a period corresponding to the Company’s estimate of the life of the arrangement.
Marketing and Reservation Revenues and Expenses
The Company’s franchise agreements require the payment of certain marketing and reservation system fees, which are used exclusively by the Company for expenses associated with providing franchise services such as national marketing, media advertising, central reservation systems and technology services. The Company is contractually obligated to expend the
75
marketing and reservation system revenue it collects from franchisees in accordance with the franchise agreements; as such, no income or loss to the Company is generated. In accordance with the franchise agreements, the Company includes in marketing and reservation expenses an allocation of costs for certain activities, such as human resources, facilities, legal, accounting, etc., required to carry out marketing and reservation activities.
The Company records marketing and reservation system revenues and expenses on a gross basis since the Company is the primary obligor in the arrangement, maintains the credit risk, establishes the price and nature of the marketing or reservation services and retains discretion in supplier selection. In addition, net advances to and recoveries from the franchise system for marketing and reservation activities are presented as cash flows from operating activities.
Marketing and reservation system revenues not expended in the current year are recorded as a liability in the Company's balance sheet and are carried over to the next fiscal year and expended in accordance with the franchise agreements. Shortfall amounts are recorded as an asset in the Company's balance sheet, with a corresponding reduction in costs, and are similarly recovered in subsequent years. Under the terms of the franchise agreements, the Company may advance capital and incur costs as necessary for marketing and reservation activities and recover such advances through future fees. The Company’s current assessment is that the credit risk associated with the cumulative cost advances for marketing and reservation system activities is mitigated due to the contractual right to recover these amounts from a large geographically dispersed group of franchisees.
The Company evaluates the recoverability of marketing and reservation costs incurred in excess of cumulative marketing and reservation system revenues earned on a periodic basis. The Company will record a reserve when, based on current information and events, it is probable that it will be unable to collect all amounts advanced for marketing and reservation activities according to the contractual terms of the franchise agreements. These advances are considered to be unrecoverable if the expected net, undiscounted cash flows from marketing and reservation activities are less than the carrying amount of the asset. Based on the Company’s analysis of projected net cash flows from marketing and reservation activities for all periods presented, the Company concluded that the cumulative advances for marketing and reservation activities was fully recoverable and as a result no reserve for possible losses was recorded.
Choice Privileges is the Company’s frequent guest incentive marketing program. Choice Privileges enables members to earn points based on their spending levels with franchisees and, to a lesser degree, through participation in affiliated partners’ programs, such as those offered by credit card companies. The points, which the Company accumulates and tracks on the members’ behalf, may be redeemed for free accommodations or other benefits.
The Company provides Choice Privileges as a marketing program to franchised hotels and collects a percentage of program members’ room revenue from franchises to operate the program. Revenues are deferred in an amount equal to the estimated fair value of the future redemption obligation. The Company develops an estimate of the eventual redemption rates and point values using various actuarial methods. These judgmental factors determine the required liability attributable to outstanding points. Upon redemption of points, the Company recognizes the previously deferred revenue as well as the corresponding expense relating to the cost of the awards redeemed. Revenues in excess of the estimated future redemption obligation are recognized when earned to reimburse the Company for costs incurred to operate the program, including administrative costs, marketing, promotion, and performing member services.
Accounts Receivable and Credit Risk
Accounts receivable consist primarily of franchise and related fees due from hotel franchises and are recorded at the invoiced amount. The allowance for doubtful accounts is the Company’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in the existing accounts receivable. The Company determines the allowance considering historical write-off experience and a review of aged receivable balances. However, the Company considers its credit risk associated with trade receivables to be partially mitigated due to the dispersion of these receivables across a large number of geographically diverse franchisees.
The Company records bad debt expense in SG&A and marketing and reservation expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income based on its assessment of the ultimate realizability of trade receivables considering historical collection experience and the economic environment. When the Company determines that an account is not collectible, the account is written-off to the associated allowance for doubtful accounts.
Advertising Costs
The Company expenses advertising costs as the advertising occurs. Advertising expense was $84.7 million, $79.7 million and $73.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Prepaid advertising at December 31, 2013 and 2012 totaled $0.2 million and $0.5 million, respectively and is included within other current assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company includes advertising costs primarily in marketing and reservation expenses on the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
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Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. At both December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had book overdrafts totaling $5.0 million which are included in accounts payable in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. These book overdrafts represent outstanding checks in excess of funds on deposit.
The Company maintains cash balances in domestic banks, which, at times, may exceed the limits of amounts insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. In addition, the Company also maintains cash balances in international banks which do not provide deposit insurance.
Capitalization Policies
Property and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the lease term or their useful lives. Major renovations and replacements incurred during construction are capitalized. Additionally, the Company capitalizes any interest incurred during construction; however, for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, no interest was capitalized. Upon sale or retirement of property, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are eliminated from the accounts and any related gain or loss is recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Maintenance, repairs and minor replacements are charged to expense as incurred.
Costs for computer software developed for internal use are capitalized during the application development stage and depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the software.
Leased property meeting certain capital lease criteria is capitalized and the present value of the related lease payments is recorded as a liability. The present value of the minimum lease payments are calculated utilizing the lower of the Company’s incremental borrowing rate or the lessor’s interest rate implicit in the lease, if known by the Company. Amortization of capitalized leased assets is computed utilizing the straight-line method over either the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the initial lease term and included in depreciation and amortization in the Company's consolidated statements of income. However, if the lease meets the bargain purchase or transfer of ownership criteria the asset shall be amortized in accordance with the Company’s normal depreciation policy for owned assets.
Assets Held for Sale
The Company considers property to be assets held for sale when all of the following criteria are met:
• | Management commits to a plan to sell an asset; |
• | It is unlikely that the disposal plan will be significantly modified or discontinued; |
• | The asset is available for immediate sale in its present condition; |
• | Actions required to complete the sale of the asset have been initiated; |
• | Sale of the asset is probable and the Company expects the completed sale will occur within one year; and |
• | The asset is actively being marketed for sale at a price that is reasonable given its current market value. |
Upon designation as an asset held for sale, the Company records the carrying value of each asset at the lower of its carrying value or its estimated fair value, less estimated costs to sell, and ceases recording depreciation. If at any time these criteria are no longer met, subject to certain exceptions, the assets previously classified as held for sale are reclassified as held and used and measured individually at the lower of the following:
a. | the carrying amount before the asset was classified as held for sale, adjusted for any depreciation (amortization) expense that would have been recognized had the asset been continuously classified as held and used; |
b. | the fair value at the date of the subsequent decision not to sell. |
Valuation of Intangibles and Long-Lived Assets
The Company evaluates the potential impairment of property and equipment and other long-lived assets, including franchise rights and other definite-lived intangibles, on an annual basis or whenever an event or other circumstances indicates that the Company may not be able to recover the carrying value of the asset. Recoverability is measured based on net, undiscounted expected cash flows. Assets are considered to be impaired if the net, undiscounted expected cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the assets. Impairment charges are recorded based upon the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the asset. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recognized an impairment loss totaling $0.2 million on the franchise rights recorded in conjunction with its India acquisition. The franchise rights were determined to
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be impaired as the net, undiscounted expected cash flows were less than the carrying amount of the assets. The Company did not record any impairment of long-lived assets during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2011. Significant management judgment is involved in developing these projections, and they include inherent uncertainties. If different projections had been used in the current period, the balances for non-current assets could have been materially impacted. Furthermore, if management uses different projections or if different conditions occur in future periods, future-operating results could be materially impacted.
The Company evaluates the impairment of goodwill and trademarks with indefinite lives on an annual basis, or during the year if an event or other circumstance indicates that the Company may not be able to recover the carrying amount of the asset. In evaluating these assets for impairment, the Company first assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If the conclusion is that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, then no further testing is required. If the conclusion is that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, then a two-step impairment test is performed. The fair value of the Company's net assets is used to determine if goodwill may be impaired. Indefinite life trademarks are considered to be impaired if the net, undiscounted expected cash flows associated with the trademark are less than their carrying amount. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recognized an impairment loss totaling $0.2 million on the goodwill recorded in conjunction with its India acquisition. Based on the Company's assessment, it was determined that the fair value of the Company's Indian subsidiary, was less than its carrying value resulting in the recognition of an impairment loss equal to the gross amount of the goodwill. The Company did not record any impairment of goodwill or trademarks with indefinite lives during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2011.
Variable Interest Entities
In accordance with the guidance for the consolidation of variable interest entities, the Company analyzes its variable interests, including loans, guarantees, and equity investments, to determine if the entity in which the Company has a variable interest is a variable interest entity. The analysis includes both quantitative and qualitative reviews. For those entities determined to have variable interests, a further quantitative and qualitative analysis is performed to determine if the Company will be deemed the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is the party who has the power to direct the activities of a variable interest entity that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance and who has an obligation to absorb losses of the entity or a right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the entity. The Company consolidates those entities in which it is determined to be the primary beneficiary.
Valuation of Investments in Ventures
The Company evaluates an investment in a venture for impairment when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable, for example due to loan defaults, significant under performance relative to historical or projected operating performance, and significant negative industry or economic trends. When there is indication that a loss in value has occurred, the Company evaluates the carrying value compared to the estimated fair value of the investment. Fair value is based upon internally developed discounted cash flow models, third-party appraisals, and if appropriate, current estimated net sales proceeds from pending offers. If the estimated fair value is less than carrying value, management uses its judgment to determine if the decline in value is other-than-temporary. In determining this, the Company consider factors including, but not limited to, the length of time and extent of the decline, loss of values as a percentage of the cost, financial condition and near-term financial projections, the Company's intent and ability to recover the lost value and current economic conditions. For investments that are deemed other-than-temporary, impairments are charged to earnings.
Sales Taxes
The Company presents taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities on a net basis and therefore they are excluded from revenues in the consolidated financial statements.
Foreign Operations
The United States dollar is the functional currency of the consolidated entities operating in the United States. The functional currency for the consolidated entities operating outside of the United States is generally the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity primarily generates and expends cash. The Company translates the financial statements of consolidated entities whose functional currency is not the United States dollar into United States dollars. The Company translates assets and liabilities at the exchange rate in effect as of the financial statement date and translates income statement accounts using the weighted average exchange rate for the period. The Company includes translation adjustments from foreign exchange and the effect of exchange rate changes on inter-company transactions of a long-term investment nature as a separate component of shareholders’ deficit. The Company reports foreign currency transaction gains and losses and the
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effect of inter-company transactions of a short-term or trading nature in SG&A expenses on the consolidated statements of income. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were a $0.4 million loss, $0.1 million gain and a $1.4 million loss, respectively.
Derivatives
The Company periodically uses derivative instruments as part of its overall strategy to manage exposure to market risks associated with fluctuations in interest rates. All outstanding derivative financial instruments are recognized at their fair values as assets or liabilities. The impact on earnings from recognizing the fair values of these instruments depends on their intended use, their hedge designation and their effectiveness in offsetting changes in the fair values of the exposures they are hedging. The Company does not use derivatives for trading purposes.
The effective portion of changes in fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and the ineffective portion is reported currently in earnings. The amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified into earnings in the same period during which the hedged item affects earnings. Amounts reported in earnings are classified consistent with the item being hedged.
The Company formally documents all relationships between its hedging instruments and hedged items at inception, including its risk management objective and strategy for establishing various hedge relationships. Cash flows from hedging instruments are classified in the consolidated statements of cash flows consistent with the items being hedged.
Hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively when (i) the derivative instrument is no longer effective in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows of the underlying hedged item, (ii) the derivative instrument expires, is sold, terminated or exercised, or (iii) designating the derivative instrument as a hedge is no longer appropriate. The effectiveness of derivative instruments is assessed at inception and on an ongoing basis.
Guarantees
The Company has historically issued certain guarantees to support the growth of its brands. A liability is recognized for the fair value of such guarantees upon inception of the guarantee and upon any subsequent modification, such as renewals, when the Company remains contingently liable. The fair value of a guarantee is the estimated amount at which the liability could be settled in a current transaction between willing unrelated parties. The Company evaluates these guarantees on a quarterly basis.
Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance
In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2013-02, "Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income" (“ASU 2013-02”). This update requires companies to present either in a single note or parenthetically on the face of the financial statements the effect of significant amounts reclassified from each component of accumulated other comprehensive income based on its source and the income statement line items affected by the reclassification. If a component is not required to be reclassified to net income in its entirety companies would instead cross reference to the related footnote for additional information. ASU 2013-02 became effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2012 and the Company adopted this ASU during the first quarter of 2013. The Company has elected to present the required disclosures in a single note rather than on the face of the financial statement. See Note 19 for additional information.
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2. | Other Current Assets |
Other current assets consist of the following at:
December 31, 2013 | December 31, 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Notes receivable (See Note 3) | $ | 12,816 | $ | 14,415 | |||
Prepaid expenses | 13,746 | 10,694 | |||||
Land held for sale | — | 8,541 | |||||
Other current assets | 3,148 | 3,019 | |||||
Total | $ | 29,710 | $ | 36,669 | |||
Land held for sale represents the Company’s purchase of real estate as part of its program to incent franchise development in strategic markets for certain brands. The Company has acquired this real estate with the intent to resell it to third-party developers for the construction of hotels operated under the Company’s brands. The real estate, which is no longer classified as land held for sale, was accounted for as assets held for sale and therefore was carried at the lower of its carrying value or its estimated fair value (based on comparable sales), less estimated costs to sell.
3. | Notes Receivable and Allowance for Losses |
The Company segregates its notes receivable for the purposes of evaluating allowances for credit losses between two categories: Mezzanine and Other Notes Receivable and Forgivable Notes Receivable. The Company utilizes the level of security it has in the various notes receivable as its primary credit quality indicator (i.e. senior, subordinated or unsecured) when determining the appropriate allowances for uncollectible loans within these categories.
Mezzanine and Other Notes Receivables
The Company has provided financing to franchisees in support of the development of properties in strategic markets. Interest income associated with these notes receivable is reflected in the accompanying consolidated statements of income under the caption interest income.
The Company expects the owners to repay the loans in accordance with the loan agreements, or earlier as the hotels mature and capital markets permit. The Company estimates the collectibility and records an allowance for loss on its mezzanine and other notes receivable when recording the receivables in the Company’s financial statements. These estimates are updated quarterly based on available information.
The Company considers a loan to be impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. All amounts due according to the contractual terms means that both the contractual interest payments and the contractual principal payments of a loan will be collected as scheduled in the loan agreement. The Company measures loan impairment based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate or the estimated fair value of the collateral. For impaired loans, the Company establishes a specific impairment reserve for the difference between the recorded investment in the loan and the present value of the expected future cash flows or the estimated fair value of the collateral. The Company applies its loan impairment policy individually to all mezzanine and other notes receivable in the portfolio and does not aggregate loans for the purpose of applying such policy. For impaired loans, the Company recognizes interest income on a cash basis. If it is likely that a loan will not be collected based on financial or other business indicators, it is the Company’s policy to charge off these loans to SG&A expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income in the quarter when it is deemed uncollectible. Recoveries of impaired loans are recorded as a reduction of SG&A expenses in the quarter received.
The Company assesses the collectibility of its senior notes receivable by comparing the market value of the underlying assets to the carrying value of the outstanding notes. In addition, the Company evaluates the property’s operating performance, the borrower’s compliance with the terms of the loan and franchise agreements, and all related personal guarantees that have been provided by the borrower. In addition, for properties under development, the Company evaluates the progress of development as compared to the project's development schedule and cost budget. For subordinated or unsecured receivables,
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the Company assesses the property’s operating performance, the subordinated equity available to the Company, the borrower’s compliance with the terms of loan and franchise agreements, and the related personal guarantees that have been provided by the borrower.
The Company considers loans to be past due and in default when payments are not made when due. Although the Company considers loans to be in default if payments are not received on the due date, the Company does not suspend the accrual of interest until those payments are more than 30 days past due. The Company applies payments received for loans on non-accrual status first to interest and then principal. The Company does not resume interest accrual until all delinquent payments are received.
The Company determined that approximately $12.5 million and $13.3 million of its mezzanine and other notes receivable were impaired at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The Company recorded an allowance for credit losses on these impaired loans at both December 31, 2013 and 2012 totaling $8.3 million resulting in a carrying value of impaired loans of $4.2 million and $5.0 million, respectively. The Company recognized approximately $0.4 million and $0.1 million of interest income on impaired loans during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, on the cash basis. The Company provided loan reserves on non-impaired loans totaling $1.6 million and $0.6 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively
Past due balances of mezzanine and other notes receivable by credit quality indicators are as follows:
30-89 days Past Due | > 90 days Past Due | Total Past Due | Current | Total Mezzanine and Other Notes Receivables | |||||||||||||||
As of December 31, 2013 | (In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||
Senior | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 18,052 | $ | 18,052 | |||||||||
Subordinated | — | 9,629 | 9,629 | 4,523 | 14,152 | ||||||||||||||
Unsecured | — | 47 | 47 | 3,358 | 3,405 | ||||||||||||||
$ | — | $ | 9,676 | $ | 9,676 | $ | 25,933 | $ | 35,609 | ||||||||||
As of December 31, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||
Senior | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 27,549 | $ | 27,549 | |||||||||
Subordinated | 619 | 9,629 | 10,248 | 4,771 | 15,019 | ||||||||||||||
Unsecured | — | 47 | 47 | 1,218 | 1,265 | ||||||||||||||
$ | 619 | $ | 9,676 | $ | 10,295 | $ | 33,538 | $ | 43,833 | ||||||||||
Loans Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality
On December 2, 2011, the Company acquired an $11.5 million first mortgage, held on a franchisee hotel asset, from a financial institution for $7.9 million. At the time of acquisition, the Company determined that it would be unable to collect all contractually required payments under the original mortgage terms. The contractually required payments receivable, including principal and interest, under the terms of the acquired mortgage totaled $12.0 million. The Company expects to collect $9.7 million of these contractually required payments. No prepayments were considered in the determination of contractual cash flows and cash flows expected to be collected. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the carrying amount of this loan was $7.9 million and there was no allowance for uncollectable amounts. The Company's accretable yield at acquisition was $1.8 million or 7.36% and a reconciliation of the accretable yield for year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
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Year Ended December 31, 2013 | Year Ended December 31, 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Balance, Beginning of Year | $ | 1,161 | $ | 1,793 | |||
Additions | — | — | |||||
Accretion | (579 | ) | (632 | ) | |||
Disposals | — | — | |||||
Reclassifications from nonaccretable yield | — | — | |||||
Balance, End of Year | $ | 582 | $ | 1,161 | |||
Forgivable Notes Receivable
In conjunction with brand and development programs, the Company may provide financing to franchisees for property improvements and other purposes in the form of forgivable unsecured promissory notes which bear interest at market rates. Under these promissory notes, the franchisee promises to repay the principal balance together with interest upon maturity unless certain conditions are met throughout the term of the promissory note. The principal balance and related interest are forgiven ratably over the term of the promissory note if the franchisee remains in the system in good standing. If during the term of the promissory note, the franchisee exits our franchise system or is not operating their franchise in accordance with our quality or credit standards, the Company may declare a default under the promissory note and commence collection efforts with respect to the full amount of the then-current outstanding principal and interest.
In accordance with the terms of the promissory notes, the initial principal balance and related interest are ratably reduced over the term of the loan on each anniversary date until the outstanding amounts are reduced to zero as long as the franchisee remains within the franchise system and operates in accordance with our quality and brand standards. As a result, the amounts recorded as an asset on the Company's consolidated balance sheet are also ratably reduced since the amounts forgiven no longer represent probable future economic benefits to the Company. The Company records the reduction of its recorded assets through amortization and marketing and reservation expense on its consolidated statements of income. Since these forgivable promissory notes receivable are predominately forgiven ratably over the term of the promissory note rather than repaid, the Company classifies the issuance and collection of these notes receivable as operating activities in its consolidated statement of cash flows.
The Company fully reserves all defaulted notes in addition to recording a reserve on the estimated uncollectible portion of the remaining notes. For those notes not in default, the Company calculates an allowance for losses and determines the ultimate collectability on these forgivable notes based on the historical default rates for those unsecured notes that are not forgiven but are required to be repaid. The Company records bad debt expense in SG&A and marketing and reservation expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income in the quarter when the note is deemed uncollectible.
As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the unamortized balance of these notes totaled $20.6 million and $16.2 million, respectively. The Company recorded an allowance for credit losses on these forgivable unsecured notes receivable of $1.7 million and $1.6 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company did not have any forgivable unsecured notes that were past due. Amortization expense included in the accompanying consolidated statements of income related to the notes was $4.2 million, $2.8 million and $2.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
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A summary of the Company's notes receivable and related allowances are as follows:
December 31, 2013 | December 31, 2012 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | (In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Credit Quality Indicator | Forgivable Notes Receivable | Mezzanine & Other Notes Receivable | Total | Forgivable Notes Receivable | Mezzanine & Other Notes Receivable | Total | |||||||||||||||||
Senior | $ | — | $ | 18,052 | $ | 18,052 | $ | — | $ | 27,549 | $ | 27,549 | |||||||||||
Subordinated | — | 14,152 | 14,152 | — | 15,019 | 15,019 | |||||||||||||||||
Unsecured | 20,625 | 3,405 | 24,030 | 16,235 | 1,265 | 17,500 | |||||||||||||||||
Total notes receivable | 20,625 | 35,609 | 56,234 | 16,235 | 43,833 | 60,068 | |||||||||||||||||
Allowance for losses on non-impaired loans | 1,650 | 1,607 | 3,257 | 1,623 | 638 | 2,261 | |||||||||||||||||
Allowance for losses on receivables specifically evaluated for impairment | — | 8,289 | 8,289 | — | 8,289 | 8,289 | |||||||||||||||||
Total loan reserves | 1,650 | 9,896 | 11,546 | 1,623 | 8,927 | 10,550 | |||||||||||||||||
Net carrying value | $ | 18,975 | $ | 25,713 | $ | 44,688 | $ | 14,612 | $ | 34,906 | $ | 49,518 | |||||||||||
Current portion, net | $ | 361 | $ | 12,455 | $ | 12,816 | $ | 420 | $ | 13,995 | $ | 14,415 | |||||||||||
Long-term portion, net | 18,614 | 13,258 | 31,872 | 14,192 | 20,911 | 35,103 | |||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 18,975 | $ | 25,713 | $ | 44,688 | $ | 14,612 | $ | 34,906 | $ | 49,518 | |||||||||||
The Company classifies notes receivable due within one year as other current assets and notes receivable with a maturity greater than one year as other assets in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.
The following table summarizes the activity related to the Company’s Forgivable Notes Receivable and Mezzanine & Other Notes Receivable allowance for losses for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
Year Ended December 31, 2013 | Year Ended December 31, 2012 | ||||||||||||||
Forgivable Notes Receivable | Mezzanine & Other Notes Receivable | Forgivable Notes Receivable | Mezzanine & Other Notes Receivable | ||||||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||||||
Beginning balance | $ | 1,623 | $ | 8,927 | $ | 795 | $ | 8,433 | |||||||
Provisions | 699 | 969 | 1,144 | 591 | |||||||||||
Recoveries | (9 | ) | — | (33 | ) | (97 | ) | ||||||||
Write-offs | (115 | ) | — | (213 | ) | — | |||||||||
Other(1) | (548 | ) | — | (70 | ) | — | |||||||||
Ending balance | $ | 1,650 | $ | 9,896 | $ | 1,623 | $ | 8,927 | |||||||
(1) Consists of default rate assumption changes
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4. | Property and Equipment |
The components of property and equipment are:
December 31, | |||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Land and land improvements | $ | 2,490 | $ | 2,490 | |||
Facilities in progress and software under development | 6,435 | 2,944 | |||||
Computer equipment and software | 81,216 | 83,937 | |||||
Buildings and leasehold improvements | 38,403 | 43,482 | |||||
Furniture, fixtures and equipment | 16,371 | 14,976 | |||||
Capital lease | 3,468 | 3,468 | |||||
148,383 | 151,297 | ||||||
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization | (82,291 | ) | (99,646 | ) | |||
Property and equipment, at cost, net | $ | 66,092 | $ | 51,651 | |||
As facilities in progress are completed and placed in service, they are transferred to appropriate property and equipment categories and depreciation begins.
Depreciation has been computed for financial reporting purposes using the straight-line method. A summary of the ranges of estimated useful lives upon which depreciation rates are based follows:
Computer equipment and software | 3-5 years |
Buildings and leasehold improvements | 3-40 years |
Furniture, fixtures and equipment | 3-15 years |
Capital lease (telephone equipment) | 8 years |
Depreciation expense, excluding amounts attributable to marketing and reservation activities, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $3.1 million, $2.4 million and $2.6 million, respectively. Accumulated amortization of capital leases, included in accumulated depreciation and amortization above, at December 31, 2013 and 2012 totaled $1.4 million and $1.0 million, respectively.
5. | Goodwill |
Goodwill relates to (i) the purchase price of a minority interest in the Company for consideration in excess of the recorded minority interest and (ii) the acquisition of 100% of the stock of Suburban Franchise Holding Company, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Suburban Franchise Systems, Inc. (“Suburban Transaction”).
The components of goodwill are as follows:
December 31, | |||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Minority interest | $ | 60,620 | $ | 60,620 | |||
Suburban transaction | 5,193 | 5,193 | |||||
Total | $ | 65,813 | $ | 65,813 | |||
The Company is not required to amortize goodwill. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recognized an impairment loss totaling $0.2 million on goodwill previously recorded in conjunction with its India acquisition. An assessment of the fair value of the Company's Indian subsidiary was performed based on prices of comparable businesses and this assessment resulted in the recognition of an impairment loss equal to the gross amount of the goodwill.
6. | Franchise Rights and Other Identifiable Intangibles |
The components of franchise rights and other identifiable intangible assets at December 31, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
December 31, | |||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Franchise rights, net of accumulated amortization | $ | 6,069 | $ | 9,767 | |||
Other identifiable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization | 3,884 | 3,706 | |||||
Total | $ | 9,953 | $ | 13,473 | |||
Franchise rights represent the unamortized purchase price assigned to acquire long-term franchise contracts. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the unamortized balance relates primarily to the Econo Lodge, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel and Choice Hotels Australasia franchise rights. The franchise rights are being amortized over lives ranging from 5 to 25 years. Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 amounted to $3.5 million, $3.7 million and $3.6 million, respectively. Franchise rights are net of accumulated amortization of $76.4 million and $74.0 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
The estimated annual amortization expense related to the Company’s franchise rights for each of the years ending December 31, 2014 through 2018 is as follows:
Year | (In millions) | ||
2014 | $ | 3.2 | |
2015 | $ | 2.2 | |
2016 | $ | 0.3 | |
2017 | $ | 0.2 | |
2018 | $ | — | |
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Other identifiable intangible consist of the cost of registering and renewing existing trademarks and acquiring new trademarks. The costs of registering and renewing existing trademarks are being amortized primarily over ten years. Approximately $1.0 million of the Company's outstanding trademarks pertain to the Company's acquisition of the Suburban brand. These trademarks were determined to have an indefinite life and therefore, no amounts have been amortized. Amortization expense for each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 amounted to $0.5 million. Trademarks are net of accumulated amortization of $7.5 million and $6.9 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
The estimated annual amortization expense related to the Company’s trademarks for each of the years ending December 31, 2014 through 2018 is as follows:
Year | (In millions) | ||
2014 | $ | 0.5 | |
2015 | $ | 0.5 | |
2016 | $ | 0.4 | |
2017 | $ | 0.4 | |
2018 | $ | 0.3 | |
7. Advances, Marketing and Reservation Activities
The Company’s franchise agreements require the payment of franchise fees, which include marketing and reservation system fees. The Company is obligated to use the marketing and reservation system revenues it collects from the current franchisees comprising its various hotel brands to provide marketing and reservation services appropriate to support the operation of the overall system. In discharging its obligation to provide sufficient and appropriate marketing and reservation services, the Company has the right to expend funds in an amount reasonably necessary to ensure the provision of such services, whether or not such amount is currently available to the Company for reimbursement. The franchise agreements provide the Company the right to advance monies to the franchise system when the needs of the system surpass the balances currently available. As a result, expenditures by the Company in support of marketing and reservation services in excess of available revenues are deferred and recorded as an asset in the Company’s financial statements. Conversely, cumulative marketing and reservation system revenues not expended are recorded as a liability in the financial statements and are carried over to the next fiscal year and expended in accordance with the franchise agreements or utilized to reimburse the Company for prior year advances.
Under the terms of these agreements, the Company has the contractually enforceable right to assess and collect from its current franchisees, fees sufficient to pay for the marketing and reservation services the Company has procured for the benefit of the franchise system, including fees to reimburse the Company for past services rendered. The Company has the contractual authority to require that the franchisees in the system at any given point repay any deficits related to marketing and reservation activities. The Company’s current franchisees are contractually obligated to pay any assessment the Company imposes on its franchisees to obtain reimbursement of such deficit regardless of whether those constituents continue to generate gross room revenue and whether or not they joined the system following the deficit's occurrence.
At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had incurred marketing and reservation system expenses in excess of cumulative marketing and reservation system fees earned of $19.1 million and $42.2 million, respectively. Depreciation and amortization expense attributable to marketing and reservation activities for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $16.0 million, $14.5 million and $13.3 million, respectively. Interest expense attributable to reservation activities was $3.7 million, $4.0 million and $4.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
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8. Other Assets
Other assets consist of the following at:
December 31, | |||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Notes receivable (See Note 3) | $ | 31,872 | $ | 35,103 | |||
Equity method investments | 32,257 | 27,453 | |||||
Deferred financing fees | 8,954 | 11,174 | |||||
Land | 10,097 | 1,300 | |||||
Other assets | 856 | 983 | |||||
Total | $ | 84,036 | $ | 76,013 | |||
Land represents the Company’s purchase of real estate as part of its program to incent franchise development in strategic markets for certain brands. The Company has acquired this real estate with the intent to resell it to third-party developers for the construction of hotels operated under the Company’s brands or contribute the land into joint ventures for the same purpose. The real estate is carried at the lower of its carrying value or its estimated fair value (based on comparable sales), less estimated costs to sell.
Equity Method Investments - Variable Interest Entities
Equity method investments include $28.9 million and $24.3 million of investments in joint ventures at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, that the Company has determined to be variable interest entities. These investments relate to the Company's program to offer equity support to qualified franchisees to develop and operate Cambria Suites hotels in strategic markets. Based on an analysis of who has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact these entities performance and who has an obligation to absorb losses of these entities or a right to receive benefits from these entities that could potentially be significant to the entity, the Company has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary of any of its joint venture investments. The Company based its quantitative analysis on the forecasted cash flows of the entity and its qualitative analysis on a review of the design of the entity, its organizational structure including decision-making ability and the relevant development, operating management and financial agreements. As a result, the Company's investment in these entities is accounted for under the equity method. For the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized $8 thousand and $0.1 million of net income from the investment in these entities.
Equity Method Investment - Choice Hotels Canada
The Company conducts operations in Canada for all brands except Cambria Suites, Mainstay Suites and Suburban Extended Stay Hotel through Choice Hotels Canada, Inc. ("CHC"), a joint venture in which the Company has a 50% interest. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company recorded equity method income related to this investment in the accompanying consolidated statements of income totaling $1.6 million, $1.5 million, and $1.5 million respectively, based on CHC’s results for the twelve months ended November 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011. The Company received dividends from CHC of $1.4 million, $1.3 million and $1.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of income, revenues of $14.7 million, $14.4 million and $13.7 million, respectively, including royalty, marketing and reservation system fees and other revenues from CHC.
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9. | Accrued Expenses |
Accrued expenses consist of the following:
December 31, | |||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Accrued compensation and benefits | $ | 24,461 | $ | 32,236 | |||
Accrued interest | 16,410 | 16,695 | |||||
Dividends payable | 10,785 | — | |||||
Termination benefits (see Note 25) | 582 | 3,099 | |||||
Other liabilities and contingencies | 4,387 | 3,522 | |||||
Total | $ | 56,625 | $ | 55,552 | |||
10. | Deferred Revenue |
Deferred revenue consists of the following:
December 31, | |||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Loyalty programs | $ | 53,875 | $ | 64,636 | |||
Initial, relicensing and franchise fees | 5,354 | 4,994 | |||||
Procurement services fees | 1,504 | 1,225 | |||||
Other | 455 | 299 | |||||
Total | $ | 61,188 | $ | 71,154 | |||
11. | Other Non-Current Liabilities |
Other non-current liabilities consist of the following at:
December 31, | |||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Deferred rental expenses | $ | 16,337 | $ | 7,622 | |||
Uncertain tax positions | 5,627 | 6,718 | |||||
Deferred revenue | 1,633 | 1,411 | |||||
Other liabilities | 211 | 239 | |||||
Total | $ | 23,808 | $ | 15,990 | |||
Uncertain tax positions have been recorded for potential exposures involving tax positions that could be challenged by taxing authorities.
12. | Debt |
Debt consists of the following at:
December 31, | |||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
$400 million senior unsecured notes with an effective interest rate of 5.94% at December 31, 2013 and 2012 | $ | 400,000 | $ | 400,000 | |||
$250 million senior unsecured notes with an effective interest rate of 6.19%, less a discount of $0.4 million and $0.5 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively | 249,572 | 249,508 | |||||
$350 million senior secured credit facility with an effective interest rate of 2.17% and 2.66% at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively | 138,750 | 203,250 | |||||
Economic development loans with an effective rate interest rate of 3.00% at December 31, 2013 | 3,360 | — | |||||
Capital lease obligations due 2016 with an effective interest rate of 3.18% at December 31, 2013 and 2012 | 1,848 | 2,519 | |||||
Other notes payable | 29 | 68 | |||||
Total debt | $ | 793,559 | $ | 855,345 | |||
Less current portion | 10,088 | 8,195 | |||||
Total long-term debt | $ | 783,471 | $ | 847,150 | |||
Scheduled principal maturities of debt as of December 31, 2013 were as follows:
Year Ending | Senior Notes | Capital Lease | Revolving Credit Facilities | Other Notes Payable | Total | ||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||
2014 | $ | — | $ | 1,017 | $ | 9,375 | $ | 11 | $ | 10,403 | |||||||||
2015 | — | 1,017 | 11,250 | 12 | 12,279 | ||||||||||||||
2016 | — | 594 | 118,125 | 6 | 118,725 | ||||||||||||||
2017 | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
2018 | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
Thereafter | 649,572 | — | — | 3,360 | 652,932 | ||||||||||||||
Total payments | 649,572 | 2,628 | 138,750 | 3,389 | 794,339 | ||||||||||||||
Less: Amount representing estimated executory costs | — | (701 | ) | — | — | (701 | ) | ||||||||||||
Less: Amounts representing interest | — | (79 | ) | — | — | (79 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net principal payments | $ | 649,572 | $ | 1,848 | $ | 138,750 | $ | 3,389 | $ | 793,559 | |||||||||
Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2022
On June 27, 2012, the Company issued unsecured notes in the principal amount of $400 million ("the 2012 Senior Notes") at par, bearing a coupon of 5.75% with an effective rate of 5.94%. The 2012 Senior Notes will mature on July 1, 2022, with interest to be paid semi-annually on January 1st and July 1st. The Company used the net proceeds of this offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and other offering expenses, together with borrowings under the Company's senior credit facility, to pay a special cash dividend totaling approximately $600.7 million paid to stockholders on August 23, 2012. The Company's 2012 Senior Notes are guaranteed jointly, severally, fully and unconditionally, subject to certain customary limitations by eight wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries.
The Company incurred debt issuance costs in connection with the 2012 Senior Notes totaling approximately $7.5 million, which are included in other current assets and other assets on the Company's consolidated balance sheets. These debt issuance costs are amortized, on a straight-line basis, which is not materially different than the effective interest method, through the maturity of the 2012 Senior Notes. Amortization of these costs is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of income.
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The Company may redeem the 2012 Senior Notes at its option at a redemption price equal to the greater of (a) 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed and (b) the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled principal and interest payments from the redemption date to the date of maturity discounted to the redemption date on a semi-annual basis at the Treasury Rate, plus 50 basis points.
Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2020
On August 25, 2010, the Company issued unsecured senior notes in the principal amount of $250 million (“the 2010 Senior Notes”) at a discount of $0.6 million, bearing a coupon of 5.7% with an effective rate of 6.19%. The 2010 Senior Notes will mature on August 28, 2020, with interest to be paid semi-annually on February 28th and August 28th. The Company used the net proceeds from the offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and other offering expenses, to repay outstanding borrowings and for other general corporate purposes. The Company’s 2010 Senior Notes are guaranteed jointly, severally, fully and unconditionally, subject to certain customary limitations, by eight wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries.
Bond discounts incurred in connection with the 2010 Senior Notes are amortized on a straight-line basis, which is not materially different than the effective interest method, through the maturity of the 2010 Senior Notes. Amortization of these costs is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of income.
The Company may redeem the 2010 Senior Notes at its option at a redemption price equal to the greater of (a) 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed and (b) the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled principal and interest payments from the redemption date to the date of maturity discounted to the redemption date on a semi-annual basis at the Treasury Rate, plus 45 basis points.
Revolving Credit Facilities
On July 25, 2012, the Company entered into a $350 million senior secured credit facility, comprised of a $200 million revolving credit tranche (the "New Revolver") and a $150 million term loan tranche (the "Term Loan") with Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as administrative agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent and a syndication of lenders (the "New Credit Facility"). The New Credit Facility has a final maturity date of July 25, 2016, subject to an optional one-year extension provided certain conditions are met. Up to $25 million of the borrowings under the New Revolver may be used for letters of credit, up to $10 million of borrowings under the New Revolver may be used for swing-line loans and up to $35 million of borrowings under the New Revolver may be used for alternative currency loans. The Term Loan requires quarterly amortization payments (a) during the first two years, in equal installments aggregating 5% of the original principal amount of the Term Loan per year, (b) during the second two years, in equal installments aggregating 7.5% of the original principal amount of the Term Loan per year, and (c) during the one-year extension period (if exercised), equal installments aggregating 10% of the original principal amount of the Term Loan.
The Company utilized the proceeds from the Term Loan and borrowings from the New Revolver, together with the net proceeds from the Company's 2012 Senior Notes offering, to pay during 2012 a special cash dividend of approximately $600.7 million in the aggregate to the Company's stockholders on August 23, 2012.
The New Credit Facility is unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by certain of the Company's domestic subsidiaries. The subsidiary guarantors currently include all subsidiaries that guarantee the obligations under the Company's Indenture governing the terms of its 2010 and 2012 Senior Notes.
The New Credit Facility is secured by first priority pledges of (i) 100% of the ownership interests in certain domestic subsidiaries owned by the Company and the guarantors, (ii) 65% of the ownership interests in (a) the top-tier foreign holding company of Choice's foreign subsidiaries and (b) the domestic subsidiary that owns the top-tier foreign holding company of Choice's foreign subsidiaries and (iii) all presently existing and future domestic franchise agreements (the “Franchise Agreements”) between the Company and individual franchisees, but only to the extent that the Franchise Agreements may be pledged without violating any law of the relevant jurisdiction or conflicting with any existing contractual obligation of the Company or the applicable franchisee. At the time that the maximum total leverage ratio is required to be no greater than 4.0 to 1.00 (beginning of year 4 of the New Credit Facility), the security interest in the Franchise Agreements will be released.
The Company may at any time prior to the final maturity date increase the amount of the New Credit Facility by up to an additional $100 million to the extent that any one or more lenders commit to being a lender for the additional amount and certain other customary conditions are met. Such additional amounts may take the form of an increased revolver or term loan.
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The Company may elect to have borrowings under the New Credit Facility bear interest at a rate equal to (i) LIBOR, plus a margin ranging from 200 to 425 basis points based on the Company's total leverage ratio or (ii) a base rate plus a margin ranging from 100 to 325 basis points based on the Company's total leverage ratio.
The New Credit Facility requires the Company to pay a fee on the undrawn portion of the New Revolver, calculated on the basis of the average daily unused amount of the New Revolver multiplied by 0.30% per annum.
The Company may reduce the New Revolver commitment and/or prepay the Term Loan in whole or in part at any time without penalty, subject to reimbursement of customary breakage costs, if any. Any Term Loan prepayments made by the Company shall be applied to reduce the scheduled amortization payments in direct order of maturity.
Additionally, the New Credit Facility requires that the Company and its restricted subsidiaries comply with various covenants, including with respect to restrictions on liens, incurring indebtedness, making investments, paying dividends or repurchasing stock, and effecting mergers and/or asset sales. With respect to dividends, the Company may not make any payments if there is an existing event of default or if the payment would create an event of default. In addition, if the Company's total leverage ratio exceeds 4.50 to 1.00, the Company is generally restricted from paying aggregate dividends in excess of $50.0 million during any calendar year.
The New Credit Facility also imposes financial maintenance covenants (as defined in the loan agreements) requiring the Company to maintain:
• | a total leverage ratio of not more than 5.75 to 1.00 in year 1, 5.00 to 1.00 in year 2, 4.50 to 1.00 in year 3 and 4.00 to 1.00 thereafter, |
• | a maximum secured leverage ratio of not more than 2.50 to 1.00 in year 1, 2.25 to 1.00 in year 2, 2.00 to 1.00 in year 3 and 1.75 to 1.00 thereafter, and |
• | a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of not less than 2.00 to 1.00 in years 1 and 2, 2.25 to 1.00 in year 3 and 2.50 to 1.00 thereafter. |
At December 31, 2013, the Company maintained a total leverage ratio of 3.33x, a maximum secured leverage ratio of 0.59x and a minimum fixed charge ratio of approximately 5.56x.
The New Credit Facility includes customary events of default, the occurrence of which, following any applicable cure period, would permit the lenders to, among other things, declare the principal, accrued interest and other obligations of the Company under the New Credit Facility to be immediately due and payable. At December 31, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the New Credit Facility.
The Company incurred debt issuance costs in connection with the New Credit Facility totaling approximately $3.7 million, which are included in other current assets and other assets on the Company's consolidated balance sheets. These debt issuance costs are amortized, on a straight-line basis, which is not materially different than the effective interest method, through the maturity of the New Credit Facility. Amortization of these costs is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of income.
At December 31, 2013, the Company had $138.8 million outstanding under the Term Loan and no amounts outstanding under the New Revolver. At December 31, 2012, the Company had $146.3 million outstanding under the Term Loan and $57.0 million under the New Revolver.
In connection with entering into the New Credit Facility, the Company's $300 million senior unsecured revolving credit agreement, dated as of February 24, 2011, among the Company, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent, and a syndicate of lenders (the “Old Credit Facility”), was terminated and replaced by the New Credit Facility. The Old Credit Facility permitted the Company to borrow, repay and re-borrow revolving loans until the scheduled maturity date of February 24, 2016. Upon refinancing, the Company had unamortized deferred financing fees totaling $1.7 million pertaining to the Old Credit Facility. Based on an analysis of the lenders participating in both the Old and New Credit Facilities, the Company recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt of approximately $0.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The remaining unamortized deferred fees related to the Old Credit Facility will be amortized, on a straight-line basis through the maturity of the New Credit Facility.
Borrowings under the Old Credit Facility bore interest at (i) a base rate plus a margin ranging from 5 to 80 basis points based on the Company's credit rating or (ii) LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 105 to 180 basis points based on the Company's credit rating. In addition, the Old Credit Facility required the Company to pay a quarterly facility fee on the full amount of the commitments under the Old Credit Facility (regardless of usage) ranging from 20 to 45 basis points based upon the credit rating of the Company.
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Economic Development Loans
The Company entered into economic development agreements with various governmental entities in conjunction with the relocation of its corporate headquarters in April 2013. In accordance with these agreements, the governmental entities agreed to advance approximately $4.4 million to the Company to offset a portion of the corporate headquarter relocation and tenant improvement costs in consideration of the employment of permanent, full-time employees within the jurisdictions. At December 31, 2013, the Company had been advanced approximately $3.4 million pursuant to these agreements and expects to receive the remaining $1.1 million over the next several years, subject to annual appropriations by the governmental entities. These advances bear interest at a rate of 3% per annum.
Repayment of the advances is contingent upon the Company achieving certain performance conditions. Performance conditions are measured annually on December 31st and primarily relate to maintaining certain levels of employment within the various jurisdictions. If the Company fails to meet an annual performance condition, the Company may be required to repay a portion or all of the advances including accrued interest by April 30th following the measurement date. Any outstanding advances at the expiration of the Company's ten year corporate headquarter lease in 2023 will be forgiven in full. The advances will be included in long-term debt in Company's consolidated balance sheets until the Company determines that the future performance conditions will be met over the entire term of the agreement and the Company will not be required to repay the advances. The Company accrues interest on the portion of the advances that it expects to repay. The Company was in compliance with all current performance conditions as of December 31, 2013.
13. | Pension Plan |
The Company sponsored an unfunded non-qualified defined benefit plan (“SERP”) for certain senior executives. The Company accounted for the SERP in accordance with applicable guidance which required the Company to (a) recognize in its statement of financial position an asset for a plan’s over funded status or a liability for a plan’s underfunded status; (b) measure a plan’s assets and its obligations that determine its funded status as of the end of the employer’s fiscal year; and (c) recognize changes in the funded status of a defined benefit post-retirement plan in the year in which the changes occur. The plan assets and benefit obligations were measured as of the Company’s fiscal year end.
On December 26, 2011, the Company's board of directors approved the termination of the SERP effective immediately. Pursuant to this termination, the Company effectuated the termination of the SERP through the payment of lump sum distributions to all SERP participants based upon the actuarial equivalent commuted lump sum value of the full accrued benefit earned by each such participant, using actuarial and other assumptions on December 27, 2012. No assets were held with respect to the SERP, therefore benefits were funded when paid to participants.
The following is a reconciliation of the changes in the projected benefit obligation for the year ended December 31, 2012:
December 31, 2012 | |||
(In thousands) | |||
Projected benefit obligation, beginning of year | $ | 11,896 | |
Interest cost | 526 | ||
Actuarial loss (gain) | (85 | ) | |
Benefit payments | (414 | ) | |
Settlement payments | (11,923 | ) | |
Projected benefit obligation, end of year | $ | — | |
For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company recorded $2.8 million and $0.5 million, respectively for the expenses related to the SERP which are included in SG&A and marketing and reservation expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
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The following table presents the components of net periodic benefit costs for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011. No periodic benefit costs were incurred during the year ended December 31, 2013 due to the 2012 settlement of the SERP:
Year Ended December 31, | |||||||
2012 | 2011 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Components of net periodic benefit cost: | |||||||
Interest cost | $ | 526 | $ | 541 | |||
Amortization of actuarial loss | 128 | — | |||||
654 | 541 | ||||||
Settlement loss, net | 2,162 | — | |||||
Net periodic benefit cost | $ | 2,816 | $ | 541 | |||
Weighted average assumption: | |||||||
Discount rate | 4.50 | % | 5.50 | % | |||
As a result of the settlement of the SERP, the Company recognized a net settlement loss totaling $2.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The net settlement loss consisted of an actuarial gain of $0.1 million representing the difference between actuarial calculation of the lump sum distribution to participants and the projected benefit obligation and the reclassification of the unamortized accumulated loss from other comprehensive loss to the net periodic benefit cost totaling $2.3 million. Following the settlement of the SERP, there were no amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as a component of net periodic benefit costs.
14. | Non-Qualified Retirement, Savings and Investment Plans |
The Company sponsors two non-qualified retirement savings and investment plans for certain employees and senior executives. Employee and Company contributions are maintained in separate irrevocable trusts. Legally, the assets of the trusts remain those of the Company; however, access to the trusts’ assets is severely restricted. The trusts cannot be revoked by the Company or an acquirer, but the assets are subject to the claims of the Company’s general creditors. The participants do not have the right to assign or transfer contractual rights in the trusts.
In 2002, the Company adopted the Choice Hotels International, Inc. Executive Deferred Compensation Plan ("EDCP") which became effective January 1, 2003. Under the EDCP, certain executive officers may defer a portion of their salary into an irrevocable trust. Prior to January 1, 2010, participants could elect an investment return of either the annual yield of the Moody’s Average Corporate Bond Rate Yield Index plus 300 basis points, or a return based on a selection of available diversified investment options. Effective January 1, 2010, the Moody’s Average Corporate Bond Rate Yield Index plus 300 basis points is no longer an investment option for salary deferrals made on compensation earned after December 31, 2009. The Company recorded current and long-term deferred compensation liabilities of $11.3 million and $11.7 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to these deferrals and credited investment returns. Compensation expense is recorded in SG&A expense on the Company’s consolidated statements of income based on the change in the deferred compensation obligation related to earnings credited to participants as well as changes in the fair value of diversified investments. Compensation expense recorded in SG&A for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $0.9 million, $0.8 million and $0.8 million, respectively.
The Company has invested the employee salary deferrals in diversified long-term investments which are intended to provide investment returns that partially offset the earnings credited to the participants. The diversified investments held in the trusts totaled $4.1 million and $6.0 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are recorded at their fair value, based on quoted market prices. At December 31, 2013, the Company expects $0.4 million of the assets held in the trust to be distributed during the year ended December 31, 2014 to participants. These investments are considered trading securities and therefore the changes in the fair value of the diversified assets is included in other gains and losses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. The Company recorded investment gains (losses) during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 of $0.3 million, $1.2 million, and $(0.1) million, respectively. In addition, the EDCP Plan held shares of the Company's common stock with a market value of $0.2 million and $0.1 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively which were recorded as a component of shareholders' deficit.
In 1997, the Company adopted the Choice Hotels International, Inc. Non-Qualified Retirement Savings and Investment Plan ("Non-Qualified Plan"). The Non-Qualified Plan allows certain employees who do not participate in the EDCP to defer a
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portion of their salary and invest these amounts in a selection of available diversified investment options. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had recorded a deferred compensation liability of $13.7 million and $11.2 million, respectively related to these deferrals. Compensation expense is recorded in SG&A expense on the Company’s consolidated statements of income based on the change in the deferred compensation obligation related to earnings credited to participants as well as changes in the fair value of diversified investments. The net increase (decrease) in compensation expense recorded in SG&A for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $1.7 million, $0.7 million and $(0.5) million, respectively.
The diversified investments held in the trusts were $12.3 million and $10.2 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are recorded at their fair value, based on quoted market prices. These investments are considered trading securities and therefore the changes in the fair value of the diversified assets are included in other gains and losses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. The Company recorded investment gains (losses) during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 of $1.3 million, $0.8 million and $(0.5) million, respectively. In addition, the Non-Qualified Plan held shares of the Company’s common stock with a market value of $1.4 million and $1.0 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
15. | Fair Value Measurements |
The Company estimates the fair value of its financial instruments utilizing a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value. The following summarizes the three levels of inputs, as well as the assets that the Company values using those levels of inputs.
Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities. The Company’s Level 1 assets consist of marketable securities (primarily mutual funds) held in the Company’s EDCP and Non-Qualified Plan deferred compensation plans.
Level 2: Observable inputs, other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable. The Company’s Level 2 assets consist of money market funds held in the Company’s EDCP and Non-Qualified Plan deferred compensation plans and those recorded in cash and cash equivalents.
Level 3: Unobservable inputs, supported by little or no market data available, where the reporting entity is required to develop its own assumptions to determine the fair value of the instrument. The Company does not currently have any assets whose fair value was determined using Level 3 inputs.
The Company's policy is to recognize transfers in and transfers out of the three levels of the fair value hierarchy as of the end of each quarterly reporting period. There were no transfers between Level 1, 2 and 3 assets during the year ended December 31, 2013. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company sold approximately $11.8 million of mutual funds (Level 1 assets) held in the employee benefit plan trusts. Approximately $8.4 million of these assets were distributed from the irrevocable trust with the remaining $3.4 million transferred to the money market funds (Level 2 assets).
As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had the following assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using | |||||||||||||||
Total | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||||||||
Assets (in thousands) | |||||||||||||||
December 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||
Money market funds, included in cash and cash equivalents | $ | 50,001 | $ | — | $ | 50,001 | $ | — | |||||||
Mutual funds(1) | 14,564 | 14,564 | — | — | |||||||||||
Money market funds(1) | 1,786 | — | 1,786 | — | |||||||||||
$ | 66,351 | $ | 14,564 | $ | 51,787 | $ | — | ||||||||
December 31, 2012 | |||||||||||||||
Money market funds, included in cash and cash equivalents | $ | 20,001 | $ | — | $ | 20,001 | $ | — | |||||||
Mutual funds(1) | 11,884 | 11,884 | — | — | |||||||||||
Money market funds(1) | 4,357 | — | 4,357 | — | |||||||||||
$ | 36,242 | $ | 11,884 | $ | 24,358 | $ | — | ||||||||
____________________________
(1) | Included in Investments, employee benefit plans at fair value on consolidated balance sheets. |
Other Financial Instruments
The Company believes that the fair values of its current assets and current liabilities approximate their reported carrying amounts due to the short-term nature of these items. In addition, the interest rates of the Company’s New Credit Facility adjust frequently based on current market rates; accordingly its carrying amount approximates fair value.
The Company estimates the fair value of notes receivable which approximate their carrying value, utilizing an analysis of future cash flows and credit worthiness for similar types of arrangements. Based upon the availability of market data, the notes receivable have been classified as Level 3 inputs. The primary sensitivity in these calculations is based on the selection of appropriate interest and discount rates. For further information on the notes receivable see Note 3.
The fair value of the Company's $250 million and $400 million senior notes are classified as Level 2 as the significant inputs are observable in an active market. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the $250 million senior notes had an approximate
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fair value of $261.3 million and $271.6 million, respectively. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the $400 million senior notes had an approximate fair value of $416.0 million and $442.0 million, respectively.
Fair values estimated are made at a specific point in time, are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment. Settlement of such fair value amounts may not be possible and may not be a prudent management decision.
16. | 401(k) Retirement Plan |
The Company sponsors a 401(k) retirement plan for all eligible employees. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company recorded compensation expense of $3.7 million, $3.7 million and $3.6 million, respectively, representing matching contributions for plan participants. In accordance with the safe harbor matching provisions of the plan, the Company matches plan participant contributions in cash as bi-weekly deductions are made.
17. | Income Taxes |
Total pretax income, classified by source of income, was as follows:
Years ended December 31, | |||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||
U.S. | $ | 120,773 | $ | 131,449 | $ | 138,102 | |||||
Outside the U.S. | 36,145 | 37,719 | 19,955 | ||||||||
Total pretax income | $ | 156,918 | $ | 169,168 | $ | 158,057 | |||||
The provision for income taxes, classified by the timing and location of payment, was as follows:
Years ended December 31, | |||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||||||
Current tax expense | |||||||||||
Federal | $ | 47,124 | $ | 41,010 | $ | 40,642 | |||||
State | 4,902 | 4,713 | 2,629 | ||||||||
Foreign | 1,914 | 2,345 | 1,712 | ||||||||
Deferred tax (benefit) expense | |||||||||||
Federal | (8,683 | ) | 366 | 2,151 | |||||||
State | (710 | ) | 75 | 544 | |||||||
Foreign | (230 | ) | (28 | ) | (17 | ) | |||||
Income taxes | $ | 44,317 | $ | 48,481 | $ | 47,661 | |||||
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Net deferred tax assets consisted of:
December 31, | |||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Property, equipment and intangible assets | $ | (9,500 | ) | $ | (8,553 | ) | |
Accrued compensation | 15,696 | 14,693 | |||||
Accrued expenses | 17,991 | 9,711 | |||||
Foreign operations | 644 | 186 | |||||
Valuation allowance on foreign deferred tax assets | (227 | ) | — | ||||
Foreign net operating losses | 1,419 | 1,259 | |||||
Valuation allowance on foreign net operating losses | (1,419 | ) | (1,259 | ) | |||
Capital loss carryovers | 241 | 484 | |||||
Deferred tax asset on unrecognized tax positions | 1,736 | 2,226 | |||||
Other | 921 | 807 | |||||
Net deferred tax assets | $ | 27,502 | $ | 19,554 | |||
As of December 31, 2013, the Company had foreign net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $4.3 million before applying tax rates for the respective jurisdictions. These foreign net operating loss carryforwards have an indefinite life, subject to a full valuation allowance. In addition, the Company has recorded a valuation allowance on approximately $0.7 million of foreign deferred tax assets before applying the tax rate of the respective jurisdiction.
Balance sheet presentation:
December 31, | |||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||
Current deferred tax assets | $ | 7,220 | $ | 4,136 | |||
Non-current net deferred tax assets | 20,282 | 15,418 | |||||
Net deferred tax assets | $ | 27,502 | $ | 19,554 | |||
The statutory United States federal income tax rate reconciles to the effective income tax rates as follows:
Years ended December 31, | ||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | ||||||
Statutory U.S. federal income tax rate | 35.0 | % | 35.0 | % | 35.0 | % | ||
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit | 1.6 | % | 1.5 | % | 1.7 | % | ||
Benefits and taxes related to foreign operations | (7.0 | )% | (8.7 | )% | (3.4 | )% | ||
Unrecognized tax positions | (0.3 | )% | 0.1 | % | (0.8 | )% | ||
Adjustment to current and deferred taxes, prior years | (0.6 | )% | — | % | (0.9 | )% | ||
Other | (0.5 | )% | 0.8 | % | (1.5 | )% | ||
Effective income tax rates | 28.2 | % | 28.7 | % | 30.1 | % | ||
In 2013 and 2012, the effective income tax rates were 28.2% and 28.7%, respectively. The effective income tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2013 was lower than the United States federal statutory rate of 35% primarily due to the recurring impact of foreign operations, partially offset by state income taxes, and reflects adjustments to our federal accruals. Additionally, the effective income tax rate was further reduced by the settlement of unrecognized tax positions and legislation retroactively extending the U.S. controlled foreign corporation look-through rules. The effective income tax rate for the period ended December 31, 2012 was lower than the United States federal statutory rate of 35% primarily due to the recurring impact
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of foreign operations, partially offset by state income taxes. Additionally, the 2012 effective income tax rate includes a $4.5 million benefit related to a change in estimate of the benefit from foreign operations.
As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company’s gross unrecognized tax benefits totaled $4.0 million and $4.4 million, respectively. It is expected that $4.0 million of the total as of December 31, 2013 would favorably affect the effective tax rate if resolved in the Company’s favor. The following table presents a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits:
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||
Balance, January 1 | $ | 4,415 | $ | 4,570 | $ | 6,017 | |||||
Changes for tax positions of prior years | 503 | 410 | 173 | ||||||||
Increases for tax positions related to the current year | 1,164 | — | 2,062 | ||||||||
Settlements and lapsing of statutes of limitations | (2,035 | ) | (565 | ) | (3,682 | ) | |||||
Balance, December 31 | $ | 4,047 | $ | 4,415 | $ | 4,570 | |||||
It is reasonably possible that the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits could decrease within the next 12 months by as much as $3.5 million due to settlements and the expiration of applicable statutes of limitations.
The Internal Revenue Service is currently conducting an examination of the Company's United States federal income tax returns for tax years 2009, 2010, and 2011, as well as a limited examination of the 2007 federal income tax return as amended. As of December 31, 2013, the Company has not been advised of any material adjustments.
The practice of the Company is to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in the provision for income taxes. The Company did not incur any material interest or penalties for 2013 and 2012. The Company had $1.6 million and $2.3 million of accrued interest and penalties at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
The Company has not provided deferred United States income taxes on approximately $169.0 million of accumulated and undistributed earnings of its foreign subsidiaries. The Company's intent is for such earnings to be permanently reinvested in operations outside the United States. Determination of the deferred United States income tax liability on these earnings is not practicable because such liability, if any, is dependent on circumstances existing if and when remittance occurs.
18. | Share-Based Compensation and Capital Stock |
Dividends
The Company currently maintains the payment of a quarterly dividend on its common shares outstanding, however, the declaration of future dividends are subject to the discretion of our board of directors. During the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company's board of directors declared quarterly cash dividends at an annual rate of $0.74 per share totaling $43.2 million and $42.7 million, respectively.
In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company paid previously declared but unrecorded dividends totaling $0.5 million that were contingent upon the vesting of performance vested restricted units. No dividends on performance vested restricted units were paid during the year ended December 31, 2012.
On July 26, 2012, the Company's board of directors declared a special cash dividend to common shareholders in the amount of $10.41 per share or approximately $600.7 million ("Special Cash Dividend") which was paid on August 23, 2012.
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Share-Based Compensation
The Company recognizes compensation cost related to share-based payment transactions in the financial statements based on the fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued. Compensation expense related to the fair value of share-based awards is recognized over the requisite service period based on an estimate of those awards that will ultimately vest. The Company estimates the share-based compensation expense for awards that will ultimately vest at the inception of the grant. Over the life of the grant, the estimate of share-based compensation expense for awards with performance and/or service requirements is adjusted so that compensation cost is recognized only for awards that ultimately vest.
The Company has calculated a pool of income tax benefits that are available to absorb future income tax shortfalls that can result from the exercise or maturity of stock awards. The Company has calculated its windfall pool under the short-cut method based on the actual income tax benefits received from exercises and maturities of stock awards granted after October 15, 1997.
The Company has stock compensation plans pursuant to which it is authorized to grant stock-based awards of up to 7.6 million shares of the Company’s common stock, of which 3.5 million shares remain available for grant as of December 31, 2013. The Company’s policy allows the issuance of new or treasury shares to satisfy stock-based awards. Restricted stock, stock options, stock appreciation rights and performance share awards may be granted to officers, key employees and non-employee directors with contractual terms set by the Compensation and Management Development Committee of the Board of Directors.
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Stock Options
The Company granted approximately 0.2 million, 0.2 million and 0.2 million options to certain employees of the Company at a fair value of approximately $1.7 million, $1.6 million and $2.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The stock options granted by the Company had an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The fair value of the options granted was estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
Risk-free interest rate | 0.73 | % | 0.78 | % | 2.10 | % | |||||
Expected volatility | 38.14 | % | 40.15 | % | 39.51 | % | |||||
Expected life of stock option | 4.5 years | 4.4 years | 4.4 years | ||||||||
Dividend yield | 2.01 | % | 2.08 | % | 1.79 | % | |||||
Requisite service period | 4 years | 4 years | 4 years | ||||||||
Contractual life | 7 years | 7 years | 7 years | ||||||||
Weighted average fair value of options granted (per option) | $ | 9.89 | $ | 9.98 | $ | 12.42 | |||||
The expected life of the options and volatility are based on the historical data and are not necessarily indicative of exercise patterns or actual volatility that may occur. Historical volatility is calculated based on a period that corresponds to the expected life of the stock option. The dividend yield and the risk-free rate of return are calculated on the grant date based on the then current dividend rate and the risk-free rate for the period corresponding to the expected life of the stock option. Compensation expense related to the fair value of these awards is recognized straight-line over the requisite service period based on those awards that ultimately vest.
The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2013 was $37.7 million and $28.9 million respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $5.2 million, $2.8 million and $2.8 million, respectively.
The Company received $8.9 million, $7.1 million, and $3.8 million in proceeds from the exercise of 0.3 million, 0.3 million and 0.2 million employee stock options during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2013:
Options Outstanding | Options Exercisable | ||||||||||||||
Range of Exercise Prices | Number Outstanding at December 31, 2013 | Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life | Weighted Average Exercise Price | Number Exercisable at December 31, 2013 | Weighted Average Exercise Price | ||||||||||
$ 0.00 to $24.37 | 388,868 | 2.1 years | $ | 20.57 | 388,868 | $ | 20.57 | ||||||||
$24.38 to $29.25 | 936,613 | 2.7 years | $ | 26.12 | 710,982 | $ | 26.05 | ||||||||
$29.26 to $34.12 | 163,058 | 4.1 years | $ | 31.31 | 81,524 | $ | 31.31 | ||||||||
$34.13 to $39.00 | 173,413 | 6.1 years | $ | 36.76 | — | $ | — | ||||||||
1,661,952 | 3.0 years | $ | 26.44 | 1,181,374 | $ | 24.61 | |||||||||
Special Dividend Adjustment
The Company's long-term incentive plans ("the Plans") contain provisions which require the automatic adjustment of
outstanding share-based awards in the event that the Company makes any changes to its capital structure, such as special
dividends, stock splits or spin-offs, if such changes result in the dilution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits
intended upon the grant of the award. The Company's board of directors concluded that the Special Cash Dividend paid on
August 23, 2012 would result in the dilution of the value of the Company's outstanding stock options. Therefore, in accordance
with the anti-dilution provision of the Plans, the Company's outstanding stock options were automatically adjusted to maintain their pre-dividend value. The Company elected to maintain the pre-dividend value of the outstanding options by adjusting both the exercise price and the number of stock options outstanding as of the ex-dividend date of the Special Dividend so that the
aggregate difference between the market price and exercise price multiplied by the number of shares issuable upon exercise
was substantially the same immediately before and after the payment of the Special Cash Dividend. As a result of this
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adjustment, an additional 0.5 million stock options were awarded during the year ended December 31, 2012 and the
exercise price of the outstanding options were reduced by approximately 24%. This adjustment did not result in additional
stock-based compensation expense as the fair value of the options immediately before and after the payment of the Special
Cash Dividend was substantially equal.
Restricted Stock
The following table is a summary of activity related to restricted stock grants for the year ended December 31:
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
Restricted shares granted | 225,240 | 266,159 | 247,298 | ||||||||
Weighted average grant date fair value per share | $ | 37.74 | $ | 35.76 | $ | 38.84 | |||||
Aggregate grant date fair value ($000) | $ | 8,500 | $ | 9,517 | $ | 9,604 | |||||
Restricted shares forfeited | 40,552 | 26,824 | 68,580 | ||||||||
Vesting service period of shares granted | 12 - 48 months | 12 - 68 months | 12 - 48 months | ||||||||
Grant date fair value of shares vested ($000) | $ | 8,569 | $ | 6,696 | $ | 6,662 | |||||
Compensation expense related to the fair value of these awards is recognized straight-line over the requisite service period based on those restricted stock grants that ultimately vest. The fair value of grants is measured by the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Restricted stock awards generally vest ratably over the service period beginning with the first anniversary of the grant date. Awards granted to retirement eligible non-employee directors are recognized over the shorter of the requisite service period or the length of time until retirement since the terms of the grant provide that awards will vest upon retirement.
Performance Vested Restricted Stock Units
The Company has granted performance vested restricted stock units (“PVRSU”) to certain employees. The fair value is measured by the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The vesting of these stock awards is contingent upon the Company achieving performance targets at the end of specified performance periods and the employees’ continued employment. The performance conditions affect the number of shares that will ultimately vest. The range of possible stock-based awards vesting is generally between 0% and 200% of the initial target. If minimum performance targets are not attained then no awards will vest under the terms of the various PVRSU agreements. Compensation expense related to these awards is recognized over the requisite period based on the Company's estimate of the achievement of the various performance targets. The Company has currently estimated that between 71% and 150% of the various award targets will be achieved. Compensation expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service period only on those PVRSUs that ultimately vest.
The following table is a summary of activity related to PVRSU grants during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
Performance vested restricted stock units granted at target | 80,184 | 117,523 | 25,036 | ||||||||
Weighted average grant date fair value per share | $ | 39.48 | $ | 35.27 | $ | 41.25 | |||||
Aggregate grant date fair value ($000) | $ | 3,165 | $ | 4,145 | $ | 1,033 | |||||
Stock units forfeited | 3,334 | 57,176 | 43,179 | ||||||||
Requisite service period | 22-38 months | 24-60 months | 3 years | ||||||||
During the year ended December 31, 2013 a total of 39,816 PVRSU grants vested at a fair value of $1.5 million. These PVRSU grants were initially granted at a target of 30,624 units. However, since the Company exceeded targeted performance conditions contained in the stock awards granted in prior periods by 130%, an additional 9,192 shares were earned and issued. During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, no PVRSU grants vested.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, PVRSU grants totaling 3,334 units were forfeited due to termination of employment. During the year ended December 31, 2012, PVRSU grants totaling 57,176 units were terminated in accordance with an amended and restated employment agreement for an executive officer. During the year ended December 31, 2011,
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PVRSU grants totaling 39,070 units were forfeited since the Company did not achieve the minimum performance conditions contained in the stock awards and 4,109 were terminated related to employee terminations.
A summary of stock-based award activity as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 and the changes during the years are presented below:
2013 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Options | Restricted Stock | Performance Vested Restricted Stock Units | ||||||||||||||||||||
Options | Weighted Average Exercise Price | Weighted Average Contractual Term | Shares | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | Shares | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | ||||||||||||||||
Outstanding at January 1, 2013 | 1,934,034 | $ | 25.80 | 606,547 | $ | 35.17 | 170,116 | $ | 35.56 | |||||||||||||
Granted | 173,413 | $ | 36.76 | 225,240 | $ | 37.74 | 80,184 | $ | 39.48 | |||||||||||||
Performance-Based Leveraging* | — | — | — | $ | — | 9,192 | $ | 32.60 | ||||||||||||||
Exercised/Vested | (347,180 | ) | $ | 25.54 | (227,890 | ) | $ | 33.94 | (39,816 | ) | $ | 32.60 | ||||||||||
Expired | (75,473 | ) | $ | 36.99 | — | $ | — | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||
Forfeited | (22,842 | ) | $ | 28.94 | (40,552 | ) | $ | 35.85 | (3,334 | ) | $ | 41.25 | ||||||||||
Outstanding at December 31, 2013 | 1,661,952 | $ | 26.44 | 3.0 years | 563,345 | $ | 36.64 | 216,342 | $ | 37.34 | ||||||||||||
Options exercisable at December 31, 2013 | 1,181,374 | $ | 24.61 | 2.2 years | ||||||||||||||||||
_________________
* PVRSU units outstanding have been increased by 9,192 units due to the Company exceeding the targeted performance conditions contained in PVRSU's granted in prior periods during the year ended December 31, 2013.
2012 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Options | Restricted Stock | Performance Vested Restricted Stock Units | ||||||||||||||||||||
Options | Weighted Average Exercise Price(1) | Weighted Average Contractual Term | Shares | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | Shares | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | ||||||||||||||||
Outstanding at January 1, 2012 | 1,573,726 | $ | 33.30 | 565,627 | $ | 34.43 | 109,769 | $ | 35.57 | |||||||||||||
Granted | 160,408 | $ | 35.60 | 266,159 | $ | 35.76 | 117,523 | $ | 35.27 | |||||||||||||
Special Dividend Adjustment | 497,497 | $ | 25.31 | — | $ | — | — | $ | — | |||||||||||||
Exercised/Vested | (266,754 | ) | $ | 26.57 | (198,415 | ) | $ | 33.75 | — | $ | — | |||||||||||
Forfeited | (30,843 | ) | $ | 36.97 | (26,824 | ) | $ | 36.06 | (57,176 | ) | $ | 34.98 | ||||||||||
Outstanding at December 31, 2012 | 1,934,034 | $ | 25.80 | 4.0 years | 606,547 | $ | 35.17 | 170,116 | $ | 35.56 | ||||||||||||
Options exercisable at December 31, 2012 | 1,302,624 | $ | 25.62 | 3.1 years | ||||||||||||||||||
(1) The weighted average exercise price for options outstanding and exercisable reflect the reduction of the option price for outstanding options as described under "Special Dividend Adjustment". The weighted average exercise price for options granted, exercised or forfeited reflects the option price in effect at the time of the transaction.
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2011 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Options | Restricted Stock | Performance Vested Restricted Stock Units | ||||||||||||||||||||
Options | Weighted Average Exercise Price | Weighted Average Contractual Term | Shares | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | Shares | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | ||||||||||||||||
Outstanding at January 1, 2011 | 1,732,674 | $ | 31.43 | 592,131 | $ | 31.81 | 127,912 | $ | 33.43 | |||||||||||||
Granted | 166,306 | $ | 41.25 | 247,298 | $ | 38.84 | 25,036 | $ | 41.25 | |||||||||||||
Exercised/Vested | (175,386 | ) | $ | 21.92 | (205,222 | ) | $ | 32.46 | — | $ | — | |||||||||||
Forfeited | (149,868 | ) | $ | 33.76 | (68,580 | ) | $ | 33.55 | (43,179 | ) | $ | 32.53 | ||||||||||
Outstanding at December 31, 2011 | 1,573,726 | $ | 33.30 | 4.2 years | 565,627 | $ | 34.43 | 109,769 | $ | 35.57 | ||||||||||||
Options exercisable at December 31, 2011 | 953,159 | $ | 33.36 | 3.8 years | ||||||||||||||||||
The components of the Company’s pretax stock-based compensation expense and associated income tax benefits are as follows for the years ended December 31:
(in millions) | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | ||||||||
Stock options | $ | 1.8 | $ | 2.1 | $ | 2.8 | |||||
Restricted stock | 7.5 | 7.5 | 7.7 | ||||||||
Performance vested restricted stock units | 2.2 | 1.7 | 0.7 | ||||||||
Total | $ | 11.5 | $ | 11.3 | $ | 11.2 | |||||
Income tax benefits | $ | 4.2 | $ | 4.1 | $ | 4.1 | |||||
During all years presented, the Company revised its estimate of the projected achievement of various performance conditions that affect the number of PVRSUs that will ultimately vest. As a result, previously recognized stock-based compensation costs related to these PVRSUs has been decreased by $0.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 and increased by $0.5 million and $0.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
In conjunction with the termination of certain Company officers, stock option and restricted stock compensation expense for the year ended December 31, 2011 includes an additional $0.2 million and $0.5 million, respectively of expense related to the acceleration of award vesting conditions.
The total unrecognized compensation costs related to stock-based awards that have not yet vested and the related weighted average amortization period over which the costs are to be recognized as of December 31, 2013 are as follows:
Unrecognized Compensation Expense on Unvested Awards | Weighted Average Amortization Period | ||||
(In millions) | |||||
Stock options | $ | 2.5 | 2.4 years | ||
Restricted stock | 12.9 | 2.4 years | |||
Performance vested restricted stock units | 4.6 | 2.4 years | |||
Total | $ | 20.0 | |||
Share Repurchases and Redemptions
The Company announced a stock repurchase program on June 25, 1998 to return excess capital to its shareholders. Treasury stock activity is recorded at cost in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. There were no share repurchases during the year ended December 31, 2013. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company repurchased 0.5 million shares of its common stock under the repurchase program at a total cost of $19.9 million. Through December 31,
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2013, the Company repurchased 45.3 million shares of its common stock (including 33.0 million prior to the two-for-one stock split effected in October 2005) under the share repurchase program at a total cost of $1.1 billion.
During 2013, the Company redeemed 103,880 shares of common stock at a total cost of $4.0 million from employees to satisfy the option price and minimum tax-withholding requirements related to the exercising of options and vesting of performance vested restricted stock units and restricted stock grants. During 2012, the Company redeemed 75,105 shares of common stock at a total cost of $2.7 million from employees to satisfy option costs and statutory minimum tax-withholding requirements from the exercising of options and the vesting of restricted stock grants. These redemptions were outside the share repurchase program initiated in June 1998.
19. | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss |
The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss is as follows:
December 31, | |||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustments | $ | (472 | ) | $ | 2,391 | $ | 2,155 | ||||
Deferred loss on cash flow hedge | (5,745 | ) | (6,607 | ) | (7,469 | ) | |||||
Changes in pension benefit obligation recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) | — | — | (1,487 | ) | |||||||
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss | $ | (6,217 | ) | $ | (4,216 | ) | $ | (6,801 | ) | ||
Cash Flow Hedge
In July 2010, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement to protect itself from an increase in the market interest rate on $250 million of 10-year, fixed rate debt with the coupon to be set at market interest rates. The interest rate swap agreement was designated as a cash flow hedge under the guidance for derivatives and hedging. In August 2010, upon issuance of the related fixed-rate debt, the Company terminated and settled the interest rate swap agreement for a cash payment of $8.7 million. The Company recorded the effective portion of this deferred loss as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The ineffective portion was recognized immediately as a component of earnings under interest expense in the Company’s consolidated statements of income. The effective portion of the deferred loss is being amortized over the term of the related debt as interest expense in the Company’s consolidated statements of income.
The following represents the changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax by component for the year ended December 31, 2013:
Loss on Cash Flow Hedge | Foreign Currency Items | Total | |||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2012 | $ | (6,607 | ) | $ | 2,391 | $ | (4,216 | ) | |||
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification | — | (2,863 | ) | (2,863 | ) | ||||||
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | 862 | — | 862 | ||||||||
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) | 862 | (2,863 | ) | (2,001 | ) | ||||||
Balance, December 31, 2013 | $ | (5,745 | ) | $ | (472 | ) | $ | (6,217 | ) | ||
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The amounts reclassified from other accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) during the year ended December 31, 2013 were reclassified to the following line items in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Income.
Component | Amount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income(Loss) | Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statement of Income | ||||
(In thousands) | ||||||
Loss on cash flow hedge | ||||||
Interest rate contract | $ | 862 | Interest expense | |||
— | Tax (expense) benefit | |||||
$ | 862 | Net of tax | ||||
20. | Earnings Per Share |
The computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share is as follows:
Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||
(In thousands, except per share amounts) | |||||||||||
Computation of Basic Earnings Per Share: | |||||||||||
Net income | $ | 112,601 | $ | 120,687 | $ | 110,396 | |||||
Income allocated to participating securities | (1,116 | ) | (1,272 | ) | (1,099 | ) | |||||
Net income available to common shareholders | $ | 111,485 | $ | 119,415 | $ | 109,297 | |||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding—basic | 57,925 | 57,467 | 58,862 | ||||||||
Basic earnings per share | $ | 1.92 | $ | 2.08 | $ | 1.86 | |||||
Computation of Diluted Earnings Per Share: | |||||||||||
Net income | $ | 112,601 | $ | 120,687 | $ | 110,396 | |||||
Income allocated to participating securities | (1,111 | ) | (1,289 | ) | (1,098 | ) | |||||
Net income available to common shareholders | $ | 111,490 | $ | 119,398 | $ | 109,298 | |||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding—basic | 57,925 | 57,467 | 58,862 | ||||||||
Diluted effect of stock options and PVRSUs | 410 | 186 | 72 | ||||||||
Weighted average shares outstanding-diluted | 58,335 | 57,653 | 58,934 | ||||||||
Diluted earnings per share | $ | 1.91 | $ | 2.07 | $ | 1.85 | |||||
The Company’s unvested restricted shares contain rights to receive non-forfeitable dividends and thus are participating securities requiring the two-class method of computing earnings per share ("EPS"). The calculation of EPS for common stock shown above excludes the income attributable to the unvested restricted share awards from the numerator and excludes the dilutive impact of those awards from the denominator.
At December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, the Company had 1.7 million, 1.9 million and 1.6 million outstanding stock options, respectively. Stock options are included in the diluted earnings per share calculation using the treasury stock method and average market prices during the period, unless the stock options would be anti-dilutive. For the year ended December 31, 2013, no anti-dilutive stock options were excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company excluded 0.3 million and 0.7 million of anti-dilutive stock options from the diluted earnings per share calculation, respectively.
PVRSUs are also included in the diluted earnings per share calculation assuming the performance conditions have been met at the reporting date. However, at December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, PVRSUs totaling 197,707, 139,492 and 109,769 respectively, were excluded from the computation since the performance conditions had not been met at the reporting date.
102
21. | Operating Leases |
The Company enters into operating leases primarily for office space, office equipment and transportation vehicles. Minimum rents as defined in the Company’s lease agreements including rent escalations, rent holidays and rental concessions are recognized on the straight-line basis over the non-cancellable lease term. Payments made to or on behalf of the Company for leasehold improvement incentives are considered reductions in rental expense and are amortized on a straight-line basis over the non-cancellable lease term. Rental expense under non-cancellable operating leases was approximately $12.6 million, $9.2 million and $8.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The Company received sublease rental income related to real estate leased to third-parties totaling $0.3 million during the each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.
Future minimum lease payments are as follows:
2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | Thereafter | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Minimum lease payments | $ | 11,775 | $ | 11,746 | $ | 11,681 | $ | 10,890 | $ | 10,011 | $ | 35,971 | $ | 92,074 | |||||||||||||
Minimum sublease rentals | (150 | ) | — | — | — | — | — | (150 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
$ | 11,625 | $ | 11,746 | $ | 11,681 | $ | 10,890 | $ | 10,011 | $ | 35,971 | $ | 91,924 | ||||||||||||||
22. Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements
The Company’s Senior Notes due 2020 and 2022 are guaranteed jointly, severally, fully and unconditionally, subject to certain customary limitations, by eight wholly owned domestic subsidiaries. There are no legal or regulatory restrictions on the payment of dividends to Choice Hotels International, Inc. from subsidiaries that do not guarantee the Senior Notes. As a result of the guarantee arrangements, the following condensed consolidating financial statements are presented. Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for under the equity method of accounting.
As described in Note 1 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements, the condensed consolidating statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 have been revised from prior filings to reflect the reclassification of certain operating and investing cash flows related to the misapplication of GAAP to the presentation of cash flows from the Company's forgivable notes receivable. The following tables present the effect of the correction on select line items included in the Parent and Guarantor's Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011:
Year Ended December 31, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Parent | Guarantor | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
As Previously Reported | Adjustment | As Revised | As Previously Reported | Adjustment | As Revised | ||||||||||||||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 90,690 | $ | (2 | ) | $ | 90,688 | $ | 29,087 | $ | (10,896 | ) | $ | 18,191 | |||||||||
Investing Activities: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of mezzanine and other notes receivable | (23,737 | ) | 1 | (23,736 | ) | (11,188 | ) | 11,188 | — | ||||||||||||||
Collections of mezzanine and other notes receivable | 3,269 | 1 | 3,270 | 292 | (292 | ) | — | ||||||||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (28,305 | ) | 2 | (28,303 | ) | (29,756 | ) | 10,896 | (18,860 | ) | |||||||||||||
103
Year Ended December 31, 2011 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Parent | Guarantor | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
As Previously Reported | Adjustment | As Revised | As Previously Reported | Adjustment | As Revised | ||||||||||||||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 120,964 | $ | (114 | ) | $ | 120,850 | $ | (7,122 | ) | $ | (3,361 | ) | $ | (10,483 | ) | |||||||
Investing Activities: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of mezzanine and other notes receivable | (9,341 | ) | 114 | (9,227 | ) | (3,425 | ) | 3,425 | — | ||||||||||||||
Collections of mezzanine and other notes receivable | 4,690 | — | 4,690 | 64 | (64 | ) | — | ||||||||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (6,406 | ) | 114 | (6,292 | ) | (12,019 | ) | 3,361 | (8,658 | ) | |||||||||||||
The Company assessed the materiality of the revisions noted above and concluded that they are not material to any of its previously issued annual or interim condensed consolidating financial statements.
104
Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
For the Year Ended December 31, 2013
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
REVENUES: | |||||||||||||||||||
Royalty fees | $ | 242,706 | $ | 112,215 | $ | 43,950 | $ | (131,642 | ) | $ | 267,229 | ||||||||
Initial franchise and relicensing fees | 17,432 | — | 1,254 | — | 18,686 | ||||||||||||||
Procurement services | 19,864 | — | 804 | — | 20,668 | ||||||||||||||
Marketing and reservation | 358,133 | 350,006 | 19,247 | (324,287 | ) | 403,099 | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | 8,834 | 4,774 | 1,017 | — | 14,625 | ||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 646,969 | 466,995 | 66,272 | (455,929 | ) | 724,307 | |||||||||||||
OPERATING EXPENSES: | |||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 128,947 | 102,773 | 13,489 | (131,642 | ) | 113,567 | |||||||||||||
Marketing and reservation | 373,477 | 336,371 | 17,538 | (324,287 | ) | 403,099 | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | 3,100 | 9,178 | 869 | — | 13,147 | ||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses | 505,524 | 448,322 | 31,896 | (455,929 | ) | 529,813 | |||||||||||||
Operating income | 141,445 | 18,673 | 34,376 | — | 194,494 | ||||||||||||||
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSES, NET: | |||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense | 42,418 | 113 | 6 | — | 42,537 | ||||||||||||||
Equity in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries | (46,515 | ) | — | — | 46,515 | — | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | (2,406 | ) | (1,532 | ) | (1,023 | ) | — | (4,961 | ) | ||||||||||
Total other income and expenses, net | (6,503 | ) | (1,419 | ) | (1,017 | ) | 46,515 | 37,576 | |||||||||||
Income before income taxes | 147,948 | 20,092 | 35,393 | (46,515 | ) | 156,918 | |||||||||||||
Income taxes | 35,347 | 7,566 | 1,404 | — | 44,317 | ||||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 112,601 | $ | 12,526 | $ | 33,989 | $ | (46,515 | ) | $ | 112,601 | ||||||||
105
Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
For the Year Ended December 31, 2012
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
REVENUES: | |||||||||||||||||||
Royalty fees | $ | 235,429 | $ | 97,881 | $ | 54,362 | $ | (126,890 | ) | $ | 260,782 | ||||||||
Initial franchise and relicensing fees | 13,727 | — | 476 | — | 14,203 | ||||||||||||||
Procurement services | 17,152 | — | 810 | — | 17,962 | ||||||||||||||
Marketing and reservation | 338,801 | 335,737 | 19,903 | (309,657 | ) | 384,784 | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | 8,363 | 4,573 | 842 | — | 13,778 | ||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 613,472 | 438,191 | 76,393 | (436,547 | ) | 691,509 | |||||||||||||
OPERATING EXPENSES: | |||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 130,682 | 89,122 | 8,938 | (126,890 | ) | 101,852 | |||||||||||||
Marketing and reservation | 345,809 | 326,735 | 18,036 | (305,796 | ) | 384,784 | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | 2,832 | 7,892 | 1,007 | — | 11,731 | ||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses | 479,323 | 423,749 | 27,981 | (432,686 | ) | 498,367 | |||||||||||||
Operating income | 134,149 | 14,442 | 48,412 | (3,861 | ) | 193,142 | |||||||||||||
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSES, NET: | |||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense | 31,041 | — | 9 | (3,861 | ) | 27,189 | |||||||||||||
Equity in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries | (55,834 | ) | — | — | 55,834 | — | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | (551 | ) | (1,995 | ) | (669 | ) | — | (3,215 | ) | ||||||||||
Total other income and expenses, net | (25,344 | ) | (1,995 | ) | (660 | ) | 51,973 | 23,974 | |||||||||||
Income before income taxes | 159,493 | 16,437 | 49,072 | (55,834 | ) | 169,168 | |||||||||||||
Income taxes | 38,806 | 7,855 | 1,820 | — | 48,481 | ||||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 120,687 | $ | 8,582 | $ | 47,252 | $ | (55,834 | ) | $ | 120,687 | ||||||||
106
Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
For the Year Ended December 31, 2011
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
REVENUES: | |||||||||||||||||||
Royalty fees | $ | 219,699 | $ | 104,898 | $ | 32,677 | $ | (111,848 | ) | $ | 245,426 | ||||||||
Initial franchise and relicensing fees | 13,439 | — | 613 | — | 14,052 | ||||||||||||||
Procurement services | 17,619 | — | 492 | — | 18,111 | ||||||||||||||
Marketing and reservation | 298,797 | 329,831 | 18,555 | (298,147 | ) | 349,036 | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | 6,341 | 4,356 | 1,471 | — | 12,168 | ||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 555,895 | 439,085 | 53,808 | (409,995 | ) | 638,793 | |||||||||||||
OPERATING EXPENSES: | |||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 107,520 | 92,887 | 17,845 | (111,848 | ) | 106,404 | |||||||||||||
Marketing and reservation | 310,677 | 319,270 | 17,236 | (298,147 | ) | 349,036 | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | 2,824 | 7,782 | 884 | — | 11,490 | ||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses | 421,021 | 419,939 | 35,965 | (409,995 | ) | 466,930 | |||||||||||||
Operating income | 134,874 | 19,146 | 17,843 | — | 171,863 | ||||||||||||||
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSES, NET: | |||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense | 16,815 | (3,886 | ) | 10 | — | 12,939 | |||||||||||||
Equity in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries | (30,595 | ) | — | — | 30,595 | — | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | (789 | ) | 647 | 1,009 | — | 867 | |||||||||||||
Total other income and expenses, net | (14,569 | ) | (3,239 | ) | 1,019 | 30,595 | 13,806 | ||||||||||||
Income before income taxes | 149,443 | 22,385 | 16,824 | (30,595 | ) | 158,057 | |||||||||||||
Income taxes | 39,047 | 8,023 | 591 | — | 47,661 | ||||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 110,396 | $ | 14,362 | $ | 16,233 | $ | (30,595 | ) | $ | 110,396 | ||||||||
107
Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the Year Ended December 31, 2013
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 112,601 | $ | 12,526 | $ | 33,989 | $ | (46,515 | ) | $ | 112,601 | ||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: | |||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of loss on cash flow hedge | 862 | — | — | — | 862 | ||||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | (2,863 | ) | — | (2,863 | ) | 2,863 | (2,863 | ) | |||||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | (2,001 | ) | — | (2,863 | ) | 2,863 | (2,001 | ) | |||||||||||
Comprehensive income | $ | 110,600 | $ | 12,526 | $ | 31,126 | $ | (43,652 | ) | $ | 110,600 | ||||||||
108
Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the Year Ended December 31, 2012
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 120,687 | $ | 8,582 | $ | 47,252 | $ | (55,834 | ) | $ | 120,687 | ||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: | |||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of loss on cash flow hedge | 862 | — | — | — | 862 | ||||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | 237 | 5 | 224 | (229 | ) | 237 | |||||||||||||
Amortization of pension related costs, net of tax: | |||||||||||||||||||
Actuarial loss | 80 | 80 | — | (80 | ) | 80 | |||||||||||||
Settlement of pension plan | 1,406 | 1,406 | — | (1,406 | ) | 1,406 | |||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | 2,585 | 1,491 | 224 | (1,715 | ) | 2,585 | |||||||||||||
Comprehensive income | $ | 123,272 | $ | 10,073 | $ | 47,476 | $ | (57,549 | ) | $ | 123,272 | ||||||||
109
Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the Year Ended December 31, 2011
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 110,396 | $ | 14,362 | $ | 16,233 | $ | (30,595 | ) | $ | 110,396 | ||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: | |||||||||||||||||||
Amortization of loss on cash flow hedge | 862 | — | — | — | 862 | ||||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | 615 | 248 | (1,604 | ) | 1,356 | 615 | |||||||||||||
Actuarial pension loss, net of tax | (1,086 | ) | (1,086 | ) | — | 1,086 | (1,086 | ) | |||||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | 391 | (838 | ) | (1,604 | ) | 2,442 | 391 | ||||||||||||
Comprehensive income | $ | 110,787 | $ | 13,524 | $ | 14,629 | $ | (28,153 | ) | $ | 110,787 | ||||||||
110
Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
As of December 31, 2013
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
ASSETS | |||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 9,785 | $ | 569 | $ | 157,441 | $ | — | $ | 167,795 | |||||||||
Receivables | 46,135 | 1,350 | 6,036 | — | 53,521 | ||||||||||||||
Other current assets | 26,072 | 15,846 | 752 | (5,340 | ) | 37,330 | |||||||||||||
Total current assets | 81,992 | 17,765 | 164,229 | (5,340 | ) | 258,646 | |||||||||||||
Property and equipment, at cost, net | 11,087 | 54,203 | 802 | — | 66,092 | ||||||||||||||
Goodwill | 60,620 | 5,193 | — | — | 65,813 | ||||||||||||||
Franchise rights and other identifiable intangibles, net | 6,553 | 2,096 | 1,304 | — | 9,953 | ||||||||||||||
Investments, employee benefit plans, at fair value | — | 15,950 | — | — | 15,950 | ||||||||||||||
Investment in affiliates | 372,889 | 28,312 | — | (401,201 | ) | — | |||||||||||||
Advances to affiliates | 14,175 | 189,833 | 10,919 | (214,927 | ) | — | |||||||||||||
Advances, marketing and reservation activities | 19,127 | — | — | — | 19,127 | ||||||||||||||
Deferred income taxes | — | 30,504 | 912 | (11,134 | ) | 20,282 | |||||||||||||
Other assets | 22,212 | 30,342 | 31,482 | — | 84,036 | ||||||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 588,655 | $ | 374,198 | $ | 209,648 | $ | (632,602 | ) | $ | 539,899 | ||||||||
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ DEFICIT | |||||||||||||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 6,276 | $ | 30,778 | $ | 4,609 | $ | — | $ | 41,663 | |||||||||
Accrued expenses | 28,215 | 26,503 | 1,907 | — | 56,625 | ||||||||||||||
Deferred revenue | 7,065 | 53,414 | 709 | — | 61,188 | ||||||||||||||
Current portion of long-term debt | 9,375 | 702 | 11 | — | 10,088 | ||||||||||||||
Deferred compensation & retirement plan obligations | — | 2,492 | — | — | 2,492 | ||||||||||||||
Other current liabilities | — | 7,401 | 221 | (5,340 | ) | 2,282 | |||||||||||||
Total current liabilities | 50,931 | 121,290 | 7,457 | (5,340 | ) | 174,338 | |||||||||||||
Long-term debt | 778,946 | 4,507 | 18 | — | 783,471 | ||||||||||||||
Deferred compensation & retirement plan obligations | — | 22,520 | 7 | — | 22,527 | ||||||||||||||
Advances from affiliates | 206,931 | 362 | 7,634 | (214,927 | ) | — | |||||||||||||
Other liabilities | 16,092 | 18,216 | 634 | (11,134 | ) | 23,808 | |||||||||||||
Total liabilities | 1,052,900 | 166,895 | 15,750 | (231,401 | ) | 1,004,144 | |||||||||||||
Total shareholders’ (deficit) equity | (464,245 | ) | 207,303 | 193,898 | (401,201 | ) | (464,245 | ) | |||||||||||
Total liabilities and shareholders’ deficit | $ | 588,655 | $ | 374,198 | $ | 209,648 | $ | (632,602 | ) | $ | 539,899 | ||||||||
111
Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
As of December 31, 2012
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
ASSETS | |||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 8,420 | $ | 407 | $ | 125,350 | $ | — | $ | 134,177 | |||||||||
Receivables | 44,344 | 1,797 | 6,129 | — | 52,270 | ||||||||||||||
Other current assets | 41,897 | 20,110 | 3,528 | (18,512 | ) | 47,023 | |||||||||||||
Total current assets | 94,661 | 22,314 | 135,007 | (18,512 | ) | 233,470 | |||||||||||||
Property and equipment, at cost, net | 11,307 | 39,298 | 1,046 | — | 51,651 | ||||||||||||||
Goodwill | 60,620 | 5,193 | — | — | 65,813 | ||||||||||||||
Franchise rights and other identifiable intangibles, net | 8,669 | 2,715 | 2,089 | — | 13,473 | ||||||||||||||
Investments, employee benefit plans, at fair value | — | 12,755 | — | — | 12,755 | ||||||||||||||
Investment in affiliates | 329,038 | 26,194 | — | (355,232 | ) | — | |||||||||||||
Advances to affiliates | 14,252 | 206,770 | 13,479 | (234,501 | ) | — | |||||||||||||
Advances, marketing and reservation activities | 42,179 | — | — | — | 42,179 | ||||||||||||||
Deferred income taxes | — | 28,539 | 640 | (13,761 | ) | 15,418 | |||||||||||||
Other assets | 32,085 | 18,925 | 25,003 | — | 76,013 | ||||||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 592,811 | $ | 362,703 | $ | 177,264 | $ | (622,006 | ) | $ | 510,772 | ||||||||
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ DEFICIT | |||||||||||||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 5,930 | $ | 28,525 | $ | 4,259 | $ | — | $ | 38,714 | |||||||||
Accrued expenses | 18,582 | 34,576 | 2,394 | — | 55,552 | ||||||||||||||
Deferred revenue | 17,239 | 53,081 | 834 | — | 71,154 | ||||||||||||||
Current portion of long-term debt | 7,500 | 675 | 20 | — | 8,195 | ||||||||||||||
Deferred compensation & retirement plan obligations | — | 2,522 | — | — | 2,522 | ||||||||||||||
Other current liabilities | — | 17,722 | 790 | (18,512 | ) | — | |||||||||||||
Total current liabilities | 49,251 | 137,101 | 8,297 | (18,512 | ) | 176,137 | |||||||||||||
Long-term debt | 845,257 | 1,845 | 48 | — | 847,150 | ||||||||||||||
Deferred compensation & retirement plan obligations | — | 20,390 | 9 | — | 20,399 | ||||||||||||||
Advances from affiliates | 226,917 | 189 | 7,395 | (234,501 | ) | — | |||||||||||||
Other liabilities | 20,290 | 9,216 | 245 | (13,761 | ) | 15,990 | |||||||||||||
Total liabilities | 1,141,715 | 168,741 | 15,994 | (266,774 | ) | 1,059,676 | |||||||||||||
Total shareholders’ (deficit) equity | (548,904 | ) | 193,962 | 161,270 | (355,232 | ) | (548,904 | ) | |||||||||||
Total liabilities and shareholders’ deficit | $ | 592,811 | $ | 362,703 | $ | 177,264 | $ | (622,006 | ) | $ | 510,772 | ||||||||
112
Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended December 31, 2013
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | ||||||||||||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 91,745 | $ | 25,336 | $ | 36,529 | $ | (1,570 | ) | $ | 152,040 | |||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Investment in property and equipment | (5,167 | ) | (26,111 | ) | (246 | ) | — | (31,524 | ) | |||||||||||
Equity method investments | — | (2,401 | ) | (3,284 | ) | — | (5,685 | ) | ||||||||||||
Issuance of mezzanine and other notes receivable | (1,095 | ) | — | — | — | (1,095 | ) | |||||||||||||
Collections of mezzanine and other notes receivable | 9,748 | — | — | — | 9,748 | |||||||||||||||
Purchases of investments, employee benefit plans | — | (2,676 | ) | — | — | (2,676 | ) | |||||||||||||
Proceeds from sales of investments, employee benefit plans | — | 4,168 | — | — | 4,168 | |||||||||||||||
Advances to and investments in affiliates | (1,000 | ) | (2,284 | ) | — | 3,284 | — | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | (485 | ) | — | — | — | (485 | ) | |||||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | 2,001 | (29,304 | ) | (3,530 | ) | 3,284 | (27,549 | ) | ||||||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net repayments pursuant to revolving credit facilities | (57,000 | ) | — | — | — | (57,000 | ) | |||||||||||||
Principal payments on long-term debt | (7,500 | ) | (671 | ) | (33 | ) | — | (8,204 | ) | |||||||||||
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt | — | 3,360 | — | — | 3,360 | |||||||||||||||
Purchase of treasury stock | (3,965 | ) | — | — | — | (3,965 | ) | |||||||||||||
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation | 19 | 1,441 | — | — | 1,460 | |||||||||||||||
Proceeds from exercise of stock options | 8,864 | — | — | — | 8,864 | |||||||||||||||
Proceeds from contributions from affiliates | — | — | 3,284 | (3,284 | ) | — | ||||||||||||||
Dividends paid | (32,799 | ) | — | (1,570 | ) | 1,570 | (32,799 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities | (92,381 | ) | 4,130 | 1,681 | (1,714 | ) | (88,284 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | 1,365 | 162 | 34,680 | — | 36,207 | |||||||||||||||
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents | — | — | (2,589 | ) | — | (2,589 | ) | |||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 8,420 | 407 | 125,350 | — | 134,177 | |||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 9,785 | $ | 569 | $ | 157,441 | $ | — | $ | 167,795 | ||||||||||
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Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended December 31, 2012
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 90,688 | $ | 18,191 | $ | 41,243 | $ | — | $ | 150,122 | |||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | |||||||||||||||||||
Investment in property and equipment | (7,404 | ) | (7,800 | ) | (239 | ) | — | (15,443 | ) | ||||||||||
Equity method investments | — | — | (20,285 | ) | — | (20,285 | ) | ||||||||||||
Issuance of mezzanine and other notes receivable | (23,736 | ) | — | — | — | (23,736 | ) | ||||||||||||
Collections of mezzanine and other notes receivable | 3,270 | — | — | — | 3,270 | ||||||||||||||
Purchases of investments, employee benefit plans | — | (1,697 | ) | — | — | (1,697 | ) | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from sales of investments, employee benefit plans | — | 11,223 | — | — | 11,223 | ||||||||||||||
Advances to and investments in affiliates | — | (20,586 | ) | — | 20,586 | — | |||||||||||||
Other items, net | (433 | ) | — | — | — | (433 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (28,303 | ) | (18,860 | ) | (20,524 | ) | 20,586 | (47,101 | ) | ||||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | |||||||||||||||||||
Net borrowings pursuant to revolving credit facilities | 57,000 | — | — | — | 57,000 | ||||||||||||||
Principal payments on long-term debt | (3,750 | ) | (653 | ) | (19 | ) | — | (4,422 | ) | ||||||||||
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt | 543,500 | — | — | — | 543,500 | ||||||||||||||
Purchase of treasury stock | (22,586 | ) | — | — | — | (22,586 | ) | ||||||||||||
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation | 262 | 1,297 | — | — | 1,559 | ||||||||||||||
Debt issuance costs | (4,759 | ) | — | — | — | (4,759 | ) | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from exercise of stock options | 7,090 | — | — | — | 7,090 | ||||||||||||||
Proceeds from contributions from affiliates | — | — | 20,586 | (20,586 | ) | — | |||||||||||||
Dividends paid | (654,092 | ) | — | — | — | (654,092 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities | (77,335 | ) | 644 | 20,567 | (20,586 | ) | (76,710 | ) | |||||||||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | (14,950 | ) | (25 | ) | 41,286 | — | 26,311 | ||||||||||||
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents | — | — | 809 | — | 809 | ||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 23,370 | 432 | 83,255 | — | 107,057 | ||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 8,420 | $ | 407 | $ | 125,350 | $ | — | $ | 134,177 | |||||||||
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Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended December 31, 2011
(In thousands)
Parent | Guarantor Subsidiaries | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | $ | 120,850 | $ | (10,483 | ) | $ | 21,002 | $ | — | $ | 131,369 | ||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | |||||||||||||||||||
Investment in property and equipment | (2,839 | ) | (7,690 | ) | (395 | ) | — | (10,924 | ) | ||||||||||
Equity method investments | — | — | (5,000 | ) | — | (5,000 | ) | ||||||||||||
Issuance of mezzanine and other notes receivable | (9,227 | ) | — | — | — | (9,227 | ) | ||||||||||||
Collections of mezzanine and other notes receivable | 4,690 | — | — | — | 4,690 | ||||||||||||||
Proceeds from sale of assets | 1,654 | — | — | — | 1,654 | ||||||||||||||
Purchases of investments, employee benefit plans | — | (1,602 | ) | — | — | (1,602 | ) | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from sales of investments, employee benefit plans | — | 644 | — | — | 644 | ||||||||||||||
Other items, net | (570 | ) | (10 | ) | 16 | — | (564 | ) | |||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (6,292 | ) | (8,658 | ) | (5,379 | ) | — | (20,329 | ) | ||||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | |||||||||||||||||||
Net repayments pursuant to revolving credit facilities | (200 | ) | — | — | — | (200 | ) | ||||||||||||
Principal payments on long-term debt | — | (275 | ) | (22 | ) | — | (297 | ) | |||||||||||
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt | — | — | 75 | — | 75 | ||||||||||||||
Purchase of treasury stock | (53,617 | ) | — | — | — | (53,617 | ) | ||||||||||||
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation | 38 | 1,189 | — | — | 1,227 | ||||||||||||||
Debt issuance costs | (2,356 | ) | — | — | — | (2,356 | ) | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from exercise of stock options | 3,845 | — | — | — | 3,845 | ||||||||||||||
Dividends paid | (43,747 | ) | — | — | — | (43,747 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net cash provided from (used in) financing activities | (96,037 | ) | 914 | 53 | — | (95,070 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | 18,521 | (18,227 | ) | 15,676 | — | 15,970 | |||||||||||||
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents | — | — | (172 | ) | — | (172 | ) | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 4,849 | 18,659 | 67,751 | — | 91,259 | ||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 23,370 | $ | 432 | $ | 83,255 | $ | — | $ | 107,057 | |||||||||
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23. | Reportable Segment Information |
Franchising: Franchising includes the Company's hotel franchising operations consisting of its eleven brands. The eleven brands are aggregated within this segment considering their similar economic characteristics, types of customers, distribution channels and regulatory business environments. Revenues from the franchising business include royalty fees, initial franchise and relicensing fees, marketing and reservation system fees, procurement services revenue and other franchising related revenue. The Company is obligated under its franchise agreements to provide marketing and reservation services appropriate for the operation of its systems. These services do not represent separate reportable segments as their operations are directly related to the Company's franchising business. The revenues received from franchisees that are used to pay for part of the Company's ongoing operations are included in franchising revenues and are offset by the related expenses paid for marketing and reservation activities to calculate franchising operating income.
SkyTouch Technology: SkyTouch Technology ("SkyTouch") is a division of the Company that develops and markets cloud-based technology products to hoteliers not under franchise agreements with the Company.
The Company evaluates its segments based primarily on the results of the segment without allocating corporate expenses, income taxes or indirect general and administrative expenses. Equity in earnings or losses from joint ventures is allocated to the Company's franchising segment. Corporate and other revenue consists of hotel operations; corporate and other expenses consist primarily of overhead selling, general and administrative costs such as finance, legal, human resources and other general administrative expenses that are not allocated to the Company's two segments. As described in Note 7, certain interest expenses related to the Company's marketing and reservation activities are allocated to the franchising segment. The Company does not allocate the remaining interest expense, interest income, other gains and losses or income taxes to its segments.
Financial results for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, have been updated to reflect the financial results for the Company's SkyTouch segment which was established as a separate segment in 2013. The financial results related to SkyTouch were previously reported as a component of Corporate & Other.
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The following tables present the financial information for the Company's segments:
Year Ended December 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||||||
Franchising | SkyTouch Technology | Corporate & Other | Elimination Adjustments | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 719,500 | $ | 33 | $ | 4,774 | $ | — | $ | 724,307 | |||||||||
Operating income (loss) | 246,792 | (11,754 | ) | (40,544 | ) | — | 194,494 | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 17,033 | 285 | 8,166 | (16,015 | ) | 9,469 | |||||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes | 247,426 | (11,754 | ) | (78,754 | ) | — | 156,918 | ||||||||||||
Capital expenditures | 12,079 | 422 | 19,023 | — | 31,524 | ||||||||||||||
Total assets | 284,712 | 543 | 254,644 | — | 539,899 | ||||||||||||||
Year Ended December 31, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||
Franchising | SkyTouch Technology | Corporate & Other | Elimination Adjustments | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 686,936 | $ | — | $ | 4,573 | $ | — | $ | 691,509 | |||||||||
Operating income (loss) | 241,500 | (3,370 | ) | (44,988 | ) | — | 193,142 | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 15,812 | 10 | 6,936 | (14,532 | ) | 8,226 | |||||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes | 241,712 | (3,370 | ) | (69,174 | ) | — | 169,168 | ||||||||||||
Capital expenditures | 13,998 | 107 | 1,338 | — | 15,443 | ||||||||||||||
Total assets | 307,417 | 101 | 203,254 | — | 510,772 | ||||||||||||||
Year Ended December 31, 2011 | |||||||||||||||||||
Franchising | SkyTouch Technology | Corporate & Other | Elimination Adjustment | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 634,437 | $ | — | $ | 4,356 | $ | — | $ | 638,793 | |||||||||
Operating income (loss) | 220,084 | — | (48,221 | ) | — | 171,863 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 14,489 | — | 6,854 | (13,319 | ) | 8,024 | |||||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes | 218,586 | — | (60,529 | ) | — | 158,057 | |||||||||||||
Capital expenditures | 9,553 | — | 1,371 | — | 10,924 | ||||||||||||||
Total assets | 266,267 | — | 181,422 | — | 447,689 | ||||||||||||||
The Company conducts its international franchise operations through a combination of direct franchising and master franchising relationships. Master franchising relationships allow the use of the Company’s brands by third parties in foreign countries. Direct franchising operations are primarily conducted through wholly-owned subsidiaries. The results of the Company's international operations are included in the franchising segment. Revenues generated by foreign operations, including royalty, marketing and reservations system fees and other revenues for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $57.1 million, $55.4 million and $54.6 million respectively. Long-lived assets related to international operations were $5.7 million, $5.4 million and $6.5 million as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. All other long-lived assets of the Company are associated with domestic activities. The Company's investment in equity method investees at December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $32.3 million, $27.5 million, and $4.3 million, respectively. These investments are included as a component of total assets for the Company’s franchising segment.
24. | Related Party Transactions |
Transactions with Company's Largest Shareholder
Effective October 15, 1997, Choice Hotels International, Inc. which included both a franchising business and owned hotel business, separated the businesses via a spin-off into two companies: Sunburst Hospitality Corporation (referred to hereafter as “Sunburst”) and the Company. Subsequent to the spin-off, the Company’s largest shareholder retained significant ownership percentages in both Sunburst and the Company. As part of the spin-off, Sunburst and the Company entered into a
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strategic alliance agreement. Among other things, the strategic alliance agreement, as amended, provided for the determination of liquidated damages related to the termination of Choice branded Sunburst properties. The liquidated damage provisions extend through the life of the existing Sunburst franchise agreements. As of December 31, 2013, Sunburst operates 11 hotels under franchise with the Company.
Total franchise fees, including royalty, marketing and reservation system fees, paid by Sunburst to the Company, included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements were $2.6 million, $2.6 million and $4.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, accounts receivable included $0.2 million and $0.2 million, respectively, due from Sunburst.
Through June 3, 2013, the Company maintained a Master Aircraft Lease Agreement with LP_C, LLC ("LPC"), which is owned by family members of the Company’s largest shareholder. The agreement permitted the Company to lease an aircraft owned by LPC. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company incurred $0.3 million, $0.3 million and $0.5 million, respectively, pursuant to the lease agreement.
On June 3, 2013, an unrelated financial institution purchased the aircraft from LPC pursuant to a purchase agreement between LPC and the Company which the Company assigned to the financial institution. Simultaneously, the financial institution entered into an agreement with the Company to lease the aircraft. In connection with the lease of the aircraft by the Company, the Company and family members of the Company's largest shareholder entered into an agreement that allows those family members to sub-lease the aircraft from the Company from time to time for their personal use. The agreements provide for lease payments that contribute towards the fixed costs associated with the aircraft as well as reimbursement of the Company’s variable costs associated with operation of the aircraft, in compliance with, and to the extent authorized by, applicable regulatory requirements. The terms of the sub-lease agreements are consistent with the terms of sub-lease agreements that the Company has entered into with unrelated third parties for use of the aircraft. During 2013, no amounts were paid to the Company pursuant to this agreement.
Through May 2013 (which was the expiration date of the Company's master lease), the Company subleased space in its corporate headquarters complex for use by a non-profit organization. Several family members of the Company's largest shareholder serve as members of the board of directors of this non-profit organization. The Company donated the entire space utilized by the non-profit organization, as a result, no rent payments were received. Upon the expiration of the Company's corporate headquarter lease, the Company provided a $0.1 million contribution to the non-profit organization to defray their costs of transitioning to new office space.
The Company maintained a lease agreement on behalf of a family member of the Company’s largest shareholder for 1,950 square feet of office space located in Chevy Chase, Maryland. The lease had a 5 year term ending in 2013 with annual lease payments totaling approximately $72,000. In August 2012, the Company amended the terms of this lease to increase the square footage to 2,154 and extend the lease term until 2016. Annual rent payments under the amended lease terms total approximately $84,000. The Company currently provides use of the entire leased space free of charge and reimburses the family member for the taxes incurred related to the personal use of the office space. These payments total approximately $50,000 per year.
In December 2008, the Company's board of directors approved an arrangement with an entity controlled by the family members of the Company's largest shareholder to permit this entity to utilize services of a particular Company employee. Under the terms of the agreement, the related party is permitted to utilize up to 50% of the designated employee's overall working time and in return is required to reimburse the Company for 50% of the Company's overall costs associated with the individual's employment. This arrangement was terminated in January 2013. During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company received payments pursuant to this arrangement totaling $37 thousand, $0.2 million and $0.2 million, respectively per year.
In December 2013, the Company’s board of directors approved an arrangement with an entity controlled by the family members of the Company’s largest shareholder to sublease approximately 2,200 square feet of office space located in Chevy Chase, Maryland. The lease has a month to month term, with a 90 day notice period, and annual lease payments totaling approximately $90,000. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recorded approximately $15,000 in sublease rental income.
Transactions with Unconsolidated Joint Ventures
In December 2012, the Company entered into a $19.5 million promissory note with Concord 46th NYC, LLC ("Concord"). The Company and Concord are both members in a limited liability company whose sole business and purpose is to develop and operate a Cambria Suites hotel in the borough of Manhattan in New York City ("the Joint Venture"). The
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proceeds from the promissory note were utilized to partially finance the construction of the Cambria Suites hotel by the Joint Venture.
The promissory note matures in two tranches with $9.5 million of the promissory note maturing during the year ended December 31, 2013 and the remaining $10.0 million maturing on the fifth anniversary date of the promissory note. The promissory note bears interest at a fixed rate of interest which increases from 6% to 8% after the completion of the hotel construction. Interest is payable quarterly during the hotel construction and due monthly, thereafter. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company was repaid the first tranche of the promissory note or $9.5 million.
The promissory note is secured by a pledge of 100% of Concord's membership interests in the Joint Venture. In addition, the members of Concord have unconditionally guaranteed and agreed to be fully and personally liable for the entire outstanding amount of the promissory note. If Concord defaults under the terms of the promissory note, the Company may purchase Concord's interest in the Joint Venture for the sum of one dollar.
25. | Termination Charges |
During the year ended December 31, 2013 the Company recorded a $1.7 million charge in SG&A and marketing and reservation expenses related to salary and benefit continuation termination benefits provided to employees separating from service with the Company and remitted approximately $1.1 million of these benefits during the current year. At December 31, 2013, approximately $0.6 million of these salary and benefits continuation payments remain to be remitted.
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recorded a $2.9 million charge in SG&A and marketing and reservation expenses related to salary and benefit continuation termination benefits provided to employees separating from service with the Company. During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company remitted $2.2 million and $0.7 million, respectively, related to these salary and benefit continuation benefits and at December 31, 2013 all benefits incurred had been remitted.
During the year ended December 31, 2011 , the Company recorded a $6.6 million charge in SG&A and marketing and reservation expenses related to salary and benefit continuation termination benefits provided to employees separating from service with the Company. These expenses include $5.8 million of salary and benefits continuation and $0.8 million related to the acceleration of share-based compensation expense for terminated employees. During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company remitted $0.7 million, $4.0 million and $1.1 million, respectively, related to the salary and benefit continuation benefits and at December 31, 2013 all benefits incurred had been remitted.
At December 31, 2013, approximately $0.6 million of termination benefits remained to be paid and were included in current and non-current liabilities in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
26. | Commitments and Contingencies |
Except as noted below, the Company is not a party to any litigation other than litigation in the ordinary course of business. The Company's management and legal counsel do not expect that the ultimate outcome of any of its currently ongoing legal proceedings, individually or collectively, will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
In May 2013, the Company was added to an ongoing multi-district class action pending in federal court in Dallas, Texas. The lawsuit alleged that several online travel companies and hotel companies have engaged in anti-competitive practices. The complaint sought an unspecified amount of damages and equitable relief. The Company, along with other defendants, disputed the allegations and vigorously defended itself against these claims. On February 18, 2014, the court granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss the lawsuit without prejudice. The plaintiffs have 30 days to petition the court to refile their claim with additional facts. The Company does not currently believe this litigation will have a material effect on its consolidated financial position, results of operation or liquidity.
Contingencies
On October 9, 2012, the Company entered into a limited payment guaranty with regards to a VIE's $18.0 million bank loan for the construction of a hotel franchised under one of the Company's brands in the United States. Under the terms of the limited guaranty, the Company has agreed to guarantee 25% of the outstanding principal balance and accrued and unpaid interest, as well as any unpaid expenses incurred by the lender. The limited guaranty shall remain in effect until the maximum amount guaranteed by the Company is paid in full. In addition to the limited guaranty, the Company entered into an agreement in which the Company guarantees the completion of the construction of the hotel and an environmental indemnity agreement which indemnifies the lending institution from and against any damages relating to or arising out of possible environmental contamination issues with regards to the property.
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On November 15, 2013, the Company entered into a limited payment guaranty with regards to a VIE's $46.2 million bank loan for the construction of a hotel franchised under one of the Company's brands in the United States. Under the terms of the limited guaranty, the Company has agreed to unconditionally guarantee and become surety for the full and timely payment of the guaranteed outstanding principal balance, as well as any unpaid expenses incurred by the lender. The guarantee is limited to 25% of the outstanding principal balance of the $46.2 million loan due at any time. The limited guaranty shall remain in effect until the maximum amount guaranteed by the Company is repaid in full. The maturity date of the VIE's loan is May 2017.
Commitments
The Company has the following commitments outstanding:
•The Company occasionally provides financing in the form of forgivable promissory notes or cash incentives to franchisees for property improvements, hotel development efforts and other purposes. At December 31, 2013, the Company had commitments to extend an additional $13.2 million for these purposes provided certain conditions are met by its franchisees, of which $7.9 million is expected to be advanced in the next twelve months.
•The Company has committed to make additional capital contributions totaling $4.1 million to existing joint ventures, related to the construction of various hotels to be operated under the Company's Cambria Suites brand. These commitments are expected to be funded in the next twelve months.
•The Company has a property improvement incentive program for its domestic Comfort Inn and Comfort Suites hotels to incent hotel owners to renovate their properties to accelerate improvement of the brand's product quality and consistency, guest satisfaction and brand performance. The Company has committed to provide financing in the form of forgivable promissory notes to qualifying domestic hotels for a portion of their Company approved and completed property improvement expenses. Financing will be provided upon the completion and Company certification of the renovations. At December 31, 2013, the Company had commitments to extended $32.0 million for this purpose provided certain conditions are met by its franchisees. These commitments are expected to be funded in the next twelve months.
•The Company has committed to loan monies totaling approximately $3.3 million to support the construction of a hotel under the Company's Cambria Suites brand. This commitment is expected to be funded in the next twelve months.
In the ordinary course of business, the Company enters into numerous agreements that contain standard indemnities whereby the Company indemnifies another party for breaches of representations and warranties. Such indemnifications are granted under various agreements, including those governing (i) purchases or sales of assets or businesses, (ii) leases of real estate, (iii) licensing of trademarks, (iv) access to credit facilities, (v) issuances of debt or equity securities, and (vi) certain operating agreements. The indemnifications issued are for the benefit of the (i) buyers in sale agreements and sellers in purchase agreements, (ii) landlords in lease contracts, (iii) franchisees in licensing agreements, (iv) financial institutions in credit facility arrangements, (v) underwriters in debt or equity security issuances and (vi) parties under certain operating agreements. In addition, these parties are also generally indemnified against any third party claim resulting from the transaction that is contemplated in the underlying agreement. While some of these indemnities extend only for the duration of the underlying agreement, many survive the expiration of the term of the agreement or extend into perpetuity (unless subject to a legal statute of limitations). There are no specific limitations on the maximum potential amount of future payments that the Company could be required to make under these indemnities, nor is the Company able to develop an estimate of the maximum potential amount of future payments to be made under these indemnifications as the triggering events are not subject to predictability. With respect to certain of the aforementioned indemnities, such as indemnifications of landlords against third party claims for the use of real estate property leased by the Company, the Company maintains insurance coverage that mitigates potential liability.
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27. | Selected Quarterly Financial Data—(Unaudited) |
First Quarter | Second Quarter | Third Quarter | Fourth Quarter | 2013 | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands, except per share data) | |||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 136,872 | $ | 183,578 | $ | 223,162 | $ | 180,695 | $ | 724,307 | |||||||||
Operating income | $ | 30,466 | $ | 50,322 | $ | 66,549 | $ | 47,157 | $ | 194,494 | |||||||||
Income before income taxes | $ | 20,909 | $ | 40,087 | $ | 57,592 | $ | 38,330 | $ | 156,918 | |||||||||
Net income | $ | 15,523 | $ | 28,234 | $ | 41,512 | $ | 27,332 | $ | 112,601 | |||||||||
Per basic share: | |||||||||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 0.27 | $ | 0.48 | $ | 0.71 | $ | 0.47 | $ | 1.92 | |||||||||
Per diluted share: | |||||||||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 0.26 | $ | 0.48 | $ | 0.70 | $ | 0.46 | $ | 1.91 | |||||||||
First Quarter | Second Quarter | Third Quarter | Fourth Quarter | 2012 | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands, except per share data) | |||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 129,169 | $ | 173,621 | $ | 210,413 | $ | 178,306 | $ | 691,509 | |||||||||
Operating income | $ | 31,065 | $ | 51,590 | $ | 65,253 | $ | 45,234 | $ | 193,142 | |||||||||
Income before income taxes | $ | 30,233 | $ | 47,939 | $ | 55,668 | $ | 35,328 | $ | 169,168 | |||||||||
Net income | $ | 19,997 | $ | 31,862 | $ | 44,377 | $ | 24,451 | $ | 120,687 | |||||||||
Per basic share: | |||||||||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 0.34 | $ | 0.55 | $ | 0.77 | $ | 0.42 | $ | 2.08 | |||||||||
Per diluted share: | |||||||||||||||||||
Net income | $ | 0.34 | $ | 0.55 | $ | 0.76 | $ | 0.42 | $ | 2.07 | |||||||||
The matters which affect the comparability of the quarterly results include the following:
• | Seasonality: The Company’s revenues and operating income reflect the industry’s seasonality and as a result are lower in the first quarter and higher in the third quarter. |
• | Investment income and losses: The Company’s net income reflects gains and losses related to the Company’s investments held in non-qualified retirement plans and are subject to market conditions. |
• | Year Ended December 31, 2012 results: |
• | Loss on Settlement of a Pension Plan: During the fourth quarter of 2012, the Company recorded a $1.8 million loss on the settlement of a pension plan consisting primarily of the recognition of previously unrecognized actuarial losses which had been recorded as a component of the Company's accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Company's consolidated balance sheets. |
• | Income taxes: The Company's third quarter 2012 income taxes reflect a $4.5 million benefit related to a change in estimate of the benefit from foreign operations. |
28. | Future Adoption of Accounting Standards |
In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-04, "Obligations Resulting from Joint and Several Liability Arrangements for Which the Total Amount of the Obligation Is Fixed at the Reporting Date" ("ASU 2013-04"). The ASU requires entities to measure obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount of the obligation within the scope of this guidance is fixed at the reporting date, as the sum of the following: (a) The amount the reporting entity agreed to pay on the basis of its arrangement among its co-obligors and (b) any additional amount the reporting entity expects to pay on behalf of its co-obligors. Required disclosures include a description of the joint-and-several arrangement and the total outstanding amount of the obligation for all joint parties. The ASU permits entities to aggregate disclosures (as opposed to providing separate disclosures for each joint-and-several obligation). ASU 2013-04 is effective for all interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2013. The ASU should be applied retrospectively to obligations with joint-and-several liabilities existing at the beginning of an entity's fiscal year of adoption. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not currently believe that the adoption of this update will have a material impact on its financial statements and will adopt the provisions of this ASU on January 1, 2014.
In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-05, "Parent's Accounting for the Cumulative Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or of an Investment in a Foreign Entity" ("ASU 2013-05"). ASU 2013-05 clarifies that when a reporting entity ceases to have a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets that is a nonprofit activity or a business within a foreign entity, the parent is required to apply the guidance in ASC 830 "Foreign Currency Matters" Subtopic 830-30 to release any related cumulative translation adjustment into net income. Accordingly, the cumulative translation adjustment should be released into net income only if the sale or transfer results in the complete or substantially complete liquidation of the foreign entity in which the subsidiary or group of assets had resided. The provisions of ASU 2013-05 are effective prospectively for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2013. The Company does not currently believe that the adoption of this update will have a material impact on its financial statements and will adopt the provisions of this ASU on January 1, 2014.
In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-11, "Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists" ("ASU 2013-11"). ASU 2013-11 requires an entity to present an unrecognized tax benefit as a reduction of a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss ("NOL") carryforward, or similar tax loss or tax credit carryforward, rather than as a liability when (1) the uncertain tax position would reduce the NOL or other carryforward under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction and (2) the entity intends to use the deferred tax asset for that purpose. The ASU does not require new recurring disclosures. The provisions of ASU 2013-11 are effective prospectively for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. Early adoption and retrospective application are permitted. The Company does not currently believe that the adoption of this update will have a material impact on its financial statements and will adopt the provisions of this ASU on January 1, 2014.
29. | Subsequent Events |
On February 11, 2014, the Company sold a Mainstay hotel located in Brentwood, Tennessee for $4.6 million. The sale of the property included all fixtures, furnishings and equipment located in the hotel and all other assets, rights and property pertaining to the ownership and operation of the Mainstay.
On February 28, 2014, the Company's board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.185 per share of common stock. The dividend is payable on April 18, 2014 to shareholders of record on April 4, 2014.
ITEM 9. | Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. |
None.
Item 9A. | Controls and Procedures. |
The Company has a disclosure review committee whose membership includes the Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), among others. The disclosure review committee’s procedures are considered by the CEO and CFO in performing their evaluations of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) and in assessing the accuracy and completeness of the Company’s disclosures.
An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s CEO and CFO, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the CEO and CFO, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2013.
There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fourth quarter of 2013 that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The management of Choice Hotels International, Inc. and its subsidiaries (together "the Company") is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting was designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
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Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992). Based on management’s assessment under those criteria, management concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2013.
The effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears herein.
Item 9B. | Other Information |
None.
PART III
Item 10. | Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance. |
The required information on directors will be contained in the Company’s proxy statement, and reference is expressly made to the proxy statement for the specific information incorporated in this Form 10-K. The required information on executive officers is set forth in Part I of this Form 10-K under an unnumbered item captioned "Executive Officers of Choice Hotels International, Inc."
Code of Ethics
The Company has adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to its Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Controller.
The Code of Ethics is available free of charge through our internet website located at www.choicehotels.com. We will also provide without charge to any person, on the written or oral request of such person, a copy of our Code of Ethics. Requests should be directed to General Counsel, 1 Choice Hotels Circle, Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850 (telephone number (301) 592-5026).
Item 11. | Executive Compensation. |
The required information will be set forth under "Executive Compensation" and "Board Compensation and Management Development Committee Report on Executive Compensation" in the Company’s proxy statement, and reference is expressly made to the proxy statement for the specific information incorporated in this Form 10-K.
Item 12. | Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters. |
The required equity compensation plan information table is set forth herein and all other required information will be set forth under "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" and "Board of Directors" in the Company’s proxy statement, and reference is expressly made to the proxy statement for the specific information incorporated in this Form 10-K.
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EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
The following table sets forth information regarding the number of shares of the Company’s common stock that were subject to outstanding stock options at December 31, 2013.
Number of shares to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights | Weighted average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights | Number of shares remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding shares reflected in column (a)) | |||||||
Plan Category | (a) | (b) | (c) | ||||||
Equity compensation plans approved by shareholders | 1,661,952 | $ | 26.44 | 3,513,080 | |||||
Equity compensation plans not approved by shareholders | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | ||||||
The shares remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans in column (c) above are available for grant in any combination of stock options, restricted stock, stock appreciation rights and performance share awards by the Compensation and Management Development Committee of the Board of Directors.
Item 13. | Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence. |
The required information will be set forth under "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" in the Company’s proxy statement, and reference is expressly made to the proxy statement for the specific information incorporated in this Form 10-K.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services.
The required information will be set forth under "Principal Accounting Fees and Services" and "Audit Committee Report" in the Company’s proxy statement, and reference is expressly made to the proxy statement for the specific information incorporated in this Form 10-K.
PART IV
Item 15. | Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules. |
(a) | List of Documents Filed as Part of this Report |
1.Financial Statements
The response to this portion of Item 15 is submitted under Item 8 of this Report on Form 10-K.
2.Financial Statement Schedules
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm required pursuant to Item 15(a)2 is submitted under Item 8 of this report.
Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable.
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1. Exhibits
Exhibit Number | Description | |
3.01(a) | Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Choice Hotels Franchising, Inc. (renamed Choice Hotels International, Inc.) | |
3.01A(c) | Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Choice Hotels International, Inc. dated April 30, 2013 | |
3.02(h) | Amended and Restated Bylaws of Choice Hotels International, Inc. dated February 15, 2010 | |
4.01(m) | Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility agreement dated February 24, 2011 among Choice Hotels International, Inc., Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent, and a syndicate of lenders | |
4.02(k) | Senior Secured Credit Facility dated July 25, 2012 among Choice Hotels International, Inc., Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch as administrative agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as syndication agent, and a syndication of lenders | |
4.03(j) | Indenture, dated August 25, 2010 between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee | |
4.04(j) | First Supplemental Indenture, dated August 25, 2010, between the Company, the Subsidiary Guarantors, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee | |
4.05(r) | Second Supplemental Indenture dated June 27, 2012 among Choice Hotels International, Inc., the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association | |
10.01(b) | Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated April 30, 2008, between Choice Hotels International, Inc. and Stephen P. Joyce | |
10.01A(l) | First Amendment to First Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated September 16, 2010 between Choice Hotels International, Inc. and Stephen P. Joyce | |
10.01B(s) | Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated May 24, 2012 between Choice Hotels International, Inc. and Stephen P. Joyce | |
10.02(d) | Amended and Restated Chairman’s Service Agreement dated September 10, 2008 by and between Choice Hotels International, Inc. and Stewart Bainum, Jr. | |
10.02A(t) | Amendment to Amended and Restated Chairman's Services Agreement dated January 1, 2012 between Choice Hotels International, Inc. and Stewart Bainum, Jr. | |
10.03(e) | Choice Hotels International, Inc. 2006 Long- Term Incentive Plan | |
10.03A(g) | Amendment to Choice Hotels International, Inc. 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan, dated January 1, 2009 | |
10.03B(i) | Amendment to Choice Hotels International, Inc. 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan, dated April 29, 2010 | |
10.03C(c) | Amendment to Choice Hotels International, Inc. 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan, dated April 25, 2013 | |
10.04(c) | Choice Hotels International, Inc. Executive Incentive Compensation Plan | |
10.05(n) | Office Lease, dated July 11, 2011, between Choice Hotels International Services Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of Choice Hotels International, Inc., and FP Rockville Limited Partnership | |
10.07(q) | Choice Hotels International, Inc. Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (for Grandfather Account Balances) | |
10.07A(g) | Amended and Restated Choice Hotels International, Inc. Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (for Non-Grandfather Account Balances) | |
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Exhibit Number | Description | |
10.08(o) | Non-Competition, Non-Solicitation & Severance Benefit Agreement between the Company and Patrick Pacious, dated May 5, 2011 | |
10.08A(t) | Amendment to Non-Competition, Non-Solicitation & Severance Benefit Agreement between the Company and Patrick Pacious, dated March 13, 2012 | |
10.09(p) | Non-Competition, Non-Solicitation and Severance Benefit Agreement between the Company and David White, dated August 1, 2011 | |
10.09A(f) | Amendment to Non-Competition, Non-Solicitation & Severance Benefit Agreement between the Company and David White, dated March 25, 2013 | |
10.10(f) | Non-Competition, Non-Solicitation and Severance Benefit Agreement between the Company and Simone Wu, dated February 13, 2012 | |
10.10A(f) | Amendment to Non-Competition, Non-Solicitation and Severance Benefit Agreement between the Company and Simone Wu, dated March 25, 2013 | |
12.1* | Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges | |
13.01* | Valuation and Qualifying Accounts | |
21.01* | Subsidiaries of Choice Hotels International, Inc. | |
23.01* | Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP | |
31.1* | Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) | |
31.2* | Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) | |
32* | Certifications of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 | |
101.INS* | XBRL Instance Document | |
101.SCH* | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document | |
101.CAL* | XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document | |
101.DEF* | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document | |
101.LAB* | XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document | |
101.PRE* | XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document | |
____________________________
* | Filed herewith |
(a) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed August 31, 1998. |
(b) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 30, 2008, filed May 2, 2008. |
(c) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 26, 2013, filed on May 1, 2013. |
(d) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2008, filed on November 10, 2008. |
(e) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on form 8-K dated May 1, 2006, filed on May 5, 2006. |
(f) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2013, filed on May 8, 2013. |
(g) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, filed March 2, 2009. |
(h) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 15, 2010, filed February 16, 2010. |
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(i) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as Appendix B to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A K filed March 25, 2010. |
(j) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 25, 2010, filed August 25, 2010. |
(k) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 25, 2012, filed July 26, 2012. |
(l) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2010, filed on November 9, 2010. |
(m) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 24, 2011, filed March 2, 2011. |
(n) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2011, filed on November 9, 2011. |
(o) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 5, 2011, filed May 10, 2011. |
(p) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 1, 2011, filed August 4, 2011. |
(q) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002, filed March 31, 2003. |
(r) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 22, 2012, filed June 27, 2012. |
(s) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 24, 2012, filed May 25, 2012. |
(t) | Incorporated by reference to the identical document filed as an exhibit to Choice Hotels International, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2012, filed on May 9, 2012. |
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SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.
CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, INC. | |
By: | /s/ STEPHEN P. JOYCE |
Stephen P. Joyce President and Chief Executive Officer | |
Dated: March 3, 2014
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Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature | Title | Date | ||
/s/ STEWART BAINUM, JR | Chairman, Director | February 28, 2014 | ||
Stewart Bainum, Jr. | ||||
/s/ BARBARA T. ALEXANDER | Director | February 28, 2014 | ||
Barbara T. Alexander | ||||
/s/ WILLIAM L. JEWS | Director | February 28, 2014 | ||
William L. Jews | ||||
/s/ STEPHEN P. JOYCE | President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) | March 3, 2014 | ||
Stephen P. Joyce | ||||
/s/ SCOTT A. RENSCHLER | Director | February 28, 2014 | ||
Scott A. Renschler, Psy.D | ||||
/s/ JOHN T. SCHWIETERS | Director | February 28, 2014 | ||
John T. Schwieters | ||||
/s/ ERVIN R. SHAMES | Director | February 28, 2014 | ||
Ervin R. Shames | ||||
/s/ GORDON SMITH | Director | February 28, 2014 | ||
Gordon Smith | ||||
/s/ JOHN TAGUE | Director | February 28, 2014 | ||
John Tague | ||||
/s/ DAVID L. WHITE | Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer) | March 3, 2014 | ||
David L. White | ||||
/s/ SCOTT E. OAKSMITH | Controller (Principal Accounting Officer) | March 3, 2014 | ||
Scott E. Oaksmith | ||||
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