UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10‑K

(Mark One)
x
Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the fiscal year ended August 2, 2013
 
OR

o
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: 000‑25225
 

 
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Tennessee
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
62‑0812904
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
 
 
 
305 Hartmann Drive, P.O. Box 787
Lebanon, Tennessee
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
37088‑0787
(Zip code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (615) 444-5533

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class
Common Stock (Par Value $.01)
Rights to Purchase Series A Junior Participating
Preferred Stock (Par Value $0.01)
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
(NASDAQ Global Select Market)
 

 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
 

 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.     Yes þ    No o
 
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 o    No þ
 
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 þ    No o
 


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes þ    No o
 
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) 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.  o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and ”smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large accelerated filer þ
 
Accelerated filer o
 
 
 
Non-accelerated filer  o
 
Smaller reporting company  o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o    No þ
 
The aggregate market value of voting stock held by nonaffiliates of the registrant as of February 1, 2013 (the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter) was $1,543,522,095.

As of September 20, 2013, there were 23,795,327 shares of common stock outstanding.

Documents Incorporated by Reference

Document from which Portions
are Incorporated by Reference
 
Part of Form 10‑K
into which incorporated
 
 
 
 
1.   
Proxy Statement for Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held November 13, 2013 (the “2013 Proxy Statement”)
 
Part III

2

 
 
PAGE
 
 
 
 
PART I
 
 
 
 
4
ITEM 1.
5
ITEM 1A.
10
ITEM 1B.
21
ITEM 2.
21
ITEM 3.
22
 
23
 
 
 
 
PART II
 
 
 
 
ITEM 5.
24
ITEM 6.
25
ITEM 7.
26
ITEM 7A. 
42
ITEM 8.
44
ITEM 9.
68
ITEM 9A.
69
ITEM 9B.
71
 
 
 
 
PART III
 
 
 
 
ITEM 10.
71
ITEM 11.
72
ITEM 12.
72
ITEM 13.
72
ITEM 14.
72
 
 
 
 
PART IV
 
 
 
 
ITEM 15.
72
 
 
 
73
 
 
 
74

INTRODUCTION

General

This report contains references to years 2013, 2012 and 2011, which represent our fiscal years ended August 2, 2013, August 3, 2012 and July 29, 2011, respectively.  2012 consisted of 53 weeks while 2013 and 2011 consisted of 52 weeks.  All of the discussion in this report should be read with, and is qualified in its entirety by, the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto.  All amounts other than share and certain statistical information (e.g., number of stores) are in thousands unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.  Similarly, references to a year or quarter are to our fiscal year or quarter unless expressly noted or the context clearly indicates otherwise.
 
Forward Looking Statements/Risk Factors

Except for specific historical information, many of the matters discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, as well as other documents incorporated herein by reference, may express or imply projections of items such as revenues or expenditures, estimated capital expenditures, compliance with debt covenants, plans and objectives for future operations, store economics, inventory shrinkage, growth or initiatives, expected future economic performance or the expected outcome or impact of pending or threatened litigation. These and similar statements regarding events or results that Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (the “Company”) expects will or may occur in the future, are forward-looking statements that, by their nature, involve risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results and performance to differ materially from those expressed or implied by those statements. All forward-looking information is provided pursuant to the safe harbor established under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and should be evaluated in the context of these risks, uncertainties and other factors. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “trends,” “assumptions,” “target,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “opportunity,” “future,” “plans,” “goals,” “objectives,” “expectations,” “near-term,” “long-term,” “projection,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “potential,” “regular,” “should,” “projects,” “forecasts” or “continue”  (or the negative or other derivatives of each of these terms) or similar terminology.  We believe the assumptions underlying any forward-looking statements are reasonable; however, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, and therefore, actual results may differ materially from those projected in or implied by the forward-looking statements.  In addition to the risks of ordinary business operations, and those discussed or described in this report or in information incorporated by reference into this report, factors and risks that may result in actual results differing from this forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, those contained in Part I, Item 1A of this report below, as well as the factors described under “Critical Accounting Estimates” in Part II, Item 7 of this report below or, from time to time, in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), press releases and other communications.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements made in this report, since the statements speak only as of the report’s date.  Except as may be required by law, we have no obligation, and do not intend, to publicly update or revise any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.  Readers are advised, however, to consult any future public disclosures that we may make on related subjects in reports that we file with or furnish to the SEC or in our other public disclosures.

PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

OVERVIEW

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (“we,” “us,” “our” or the "Company," which reference, unless the context requires otherwise, also includes our direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries), is principally engaged in the operation and development of the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® concept (“Cracker Barrel”).  We are headquartered in Lebanon, Tennessee and were originally founded in 1969.  We are organized under the laws of the State of Tennessee.

We maintain a website at crackerbarrel.com.  We make available free of charge through our website our periodic and other reports filed with or furnished to the SEC pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) as soon as reasonably practicable after we file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC.  Information on our website is not deemed to be incorporated by reference into this Annual Report on Form 10-K or any other filings that we make from time to time with the SEC.

OPERATIONS

As of September 20, 2013, we operated 624 stores in 42 states.  None of our stores is franchised.  Our stores are intended to appeal to both the traveler and the local customer and we believe they have consistently been a consumer favorite.  We are often recognized for the quality of our operations.  Based on the analysis of consumer ratings, Technomic Inc., a well-recognized industry research firm, named Cracker Barrel the inaugural winner of its Chain Restaurant Consumers’ Choice Awards in the food and beverage category for full service restaurants.  In addition, for the third year in a row, we took top honors in the family dining segment of the Consumer Picks survey produced by Nation’s Restaurant News.  In the family dining segment, Cracker Barrel led in nine of the survey’s ten categories, including Food Quality, Cleanliness, Service, Menu Variety, Craveability, Atmosphere, Reputation, Likely to Return and Likely to Recommend.

Store Format: The format of our stores consists of a trademarked rustic, old country-store design offering a full-service restaurant menu featuring home-style country food and a wide variety of decorative and functional items featuring rocking chairs, holiday and seasonal gifts and toys, apparel, cookware and foods.  All stores are freestanding buildings.  Store interiors are subdivided into a dining room occupying approximately 28% of the total interior store space, and a gift shop occupying approximately 22% of such space, with the balance primarily consisting of kitchen, storage and training areas.  Our stores have stone fireplaces and are decorated with antique‑style furnishings and other authentic and nostalgic items, reminiscent of and similar to those found and sold in the past in traditional old country stores.  The front porch of each store features rows of the signature Cracker Barrel rocking chairs that can be used by guests while waiting for a table in our dining room or after enjoying a meal and are sold by the gift shop.  The kitchens contain modern food preparation and storage equipment allowing for flexibility in menu variety and development.

Products:  Our restaurants, which generated approximately 80% of our total revenue in 2013, offer home-style country cooking featuring many of our own recipes that emphasize authenticity and quality.  Except for Christmas Day, when they are closed, and Christmas Eve when they close at 2:00 p.m., our restaurants serve breakfast, lunch and dinner daily between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. (closing at 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays).  Menu items are moderately priced.  The restaurants do not serve alcoholic beverages.

Breakfast items can be ordered at any time throughout the day and include juices, eggs, pancakes, fruit and yogurt parfaits, pork and turkey bacon, country ham, sausage, grits, and a variety of biscuit specialties, such as gravy and biscuits and country ham and biscuits.  Lunch and dinner items include country ham, chicken and dumplings, chicken fried chicken, meatloaf, country fried steak, pork chops, fish, steak, roast beef, vegetable plates, a variety of salads, sandwiches, soups, fresh side items and specialty items such as pinto beans and turnip greens.  We recently introduced lower calorie breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings, which are full of flavor but with fewer calories.  Additionally, we may from time to time feature new items as off-menu specials or in test menus at certain locations to evaluate possible ways to enhance customer interest and identify potential future additions to the menu.  We offer weekday lunch specials, which include some of our favorite entrées in lunch-sized portions.  Our menu also features weekday and weekend dinner specials that showcase a popular dinner entrée.  There is some variation in menu pricing and content in different regions of the country for both breakfast and lunch/dinner. The average check per guest during 2013 was $9.68, which represents a 2.5% increase over the prior year.  We served an average of approximately 6,760 restaurant guests per week in a typical store in 2013.

The following table highlights the price ranges for our meals in 2013:

 
Prices Range
 
Breakfast
 
$
3.49 to $9.19
 
Lunch and Dinner
 
$
4.59 to $13.99
 

The following table highlights each day-part’s percentage of restaurant sales in 2013:

 
Percentage of Restaurant Sales in 2013
 
Breakfast Day-Part (until 11:00 a.m.)
   
24
%
Lunch Day-Part (11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
   
38
%
Dinner (4:00 p.m. to close)
   
38
%

We also offer items for sale in our gift shops that are featured on, or related to, the restaurant menu, such as pies, cornbread mix, coffee, syrups and pancake mixes. Our gift shops, which generated approximately 20% of our total revenue in 2013, offer a wide variety of decorative and functional items such as rocking chairs, seasonal gifts, apparel, toys, music CD’s, cookware, old‑fashioned-looking ceramics, figurines, a book-on-audio sale-and-exchange program and various other gift items, as well as various candies, preserves and other food items.

The following table highlights the five categories which accounted for the largest shares of our retail sales in 2013:

 
Percentage of Retail Sales in 2013
 
Apparel and Accessories
   
27
%
Food
   
18
%
Toys
   
13
%
Décor
   
13
%
Bed and Bath
   
9
%

Our typical gift shop features approximately 3,900 stock keeping units.  Many of the food items are sold under the “Cracker Barrel Old Country Store” brand name.  We believe that we achieve high retail sales per square foot of retail selling space (approximately $414 per square foot in 2013) as compared to mall stores both by offering appealing merchandise and by having a significant source of customers who are typically our restaurant guests.

Product Development and Merchandising:  We maintain a product development department, which develops new and improved menu items either in response to shifts in customer preferences or to create customer interest.  We utilize a formal development and testing process, which includes guest research and in-store market tests to ensure products brought to market have a greater likelihood of meeting our goals.  Menu driven growth is built through three areas:  enhancements to our current core menu offerings, the addition of new core menu offerings and limited time offer promotions we call seasonal events.  Our merchandising department selects and develops products for our gift shop.  We are focused on driving retail sales by converting those customers who come to us for a restaurant visit.  Our assortment includes core and seasonal themes.  Our seasonal themes are designed to create interest and excitement in our stores by providing our guests with additional choices.
Store Management and Quality Controls: At each store, our store management typically consists of one general manager, four associate managers and one retail manager.  Our store management is responsible for an average of 105 employees on two shifts.  The relative complexity of operating one of our stores requires an effective management team at the individual store level.  To motivate store managers to improve sales and operational performance, we maintain bonus plans designed to provide store managers with an opportunity to share in the profits of their store.  The bonus plans also reward managers who achieve specific operational targets.  We also employ district managers to support individual store managers and regional vice presidents to support individual district managers.  Each restaurant district manager oversees seven to nine individual stores and each restaurant regional vice president supports eight to ten district managers.  Each retail district manager oversees eleven to fifteen individual stores and each retail regional vice president supports nine to eleven district managers.  Each store is assigned to both a restaurant and a retail district manager and each district is assigned to both a restaurant and a retail regional vice president.  The various levels of restaurant and retail management work closely together to allow our stores to deliver a unique, integrated guest experience.

To ensure that individual stores are operated at a high level of quality, we focus significant attention on the selection and training of store managers.  The store management recruiting and training program begins with an evaluation and screening process.  In addition to multiple interviews and verification of background and experience, we conduct testing designed to identify those applicants most likely to be best suited to manage store operations. Candidates who successfully pass this screening process are then required to complete a training program.  The restaurant manager training program consists of five weeks of in-store training and three weeks of training at our home office.  The retail manager training program consists of three weeks of in-store training and two weeks of training at our home office.  Our training programs provide us with managers who can effectively demonstrate the ability to deliver a great guest experience through the leadership and execution of our operating systems.  This program allows new managers the opportunity to become familiar with our operations, culture, management objectives, controls and evaluation criteria before assuming management responsibility.  We provide our managers and hourly employees with ongoing training through various development courses taught through a blended learning approach, including a mix of hands-on, classroom, written and Internet-based training.  Each store is equipped with dedicated training computers for the Internet-based computer-assisted instruction programs.  Additionally, each store typically has an employee training coordinator who oversees the training of the store’s hourly employees.

Purchasing and Distribution: We negotiate directly with food vendors as to specification, price and other material terms of most food purchases.  We have a contract with an unaffiliated distributor with custom distribution centers in Lebanon, Tennessee; McKinney, Texas; Gainesville, Florida; Elkton, Maryland; Kendalville, Indiana; and Ft. Mill, South Carolina.  We purchase the majority of our food products and restaurant supplies on a cost‑plus basis through this unaffiliated distributor.  The distributor is responsible for placing food orders, warehousing and delivering food products to our stores.  Deliveries are generally made once per week to the individual stores.

The following table highlights the five food categories which accounted for the largest shares of our food purchasing expense in 2013:

 
Percentage of Food Purchases in 2013
 
Beef
   
13
%
Dairy (including eggs)
   
12
%
Fruits and vegetables
   
12
%
Poultry
   
11
%
Pork
   
11
%

Each of these categories includes several individual items.  The single food item within these categories that accounted for the largest share of our food purchasing expense in 2013 was sliced bacon at approximately 5% of food purchases.  Dairy, fruits and vegetables are purchased through numerous vendors, including local vendors.  Eggs are purchased through three vendors.  We purchase our beef, poultry and pork each through nine vendors.  Should any food items from a particular vendor become unavailable, we believe that these food items could be obtained, or alternative products substituted, in sufficient quantities from other sources at competitive prices to allow us to avoid any material adverse effects that could be caused by such unavailability.

We purchase the majority of our retail items (approximately 80% in 2013) directly from domestic and international vendors and warehouse them at a retail distribution center in Lebanon, Tennessee, which we lease.  The distribution center fulfills retail item orders generated by our automated replenishment system and generally ships the retail orders once a week to the individual stores by a third-party dedicated freight line.  Certain retail items, not centrally purchased and warehoused at the distribution center, are drop-shipped directly by our vendors to our stores.  Approximately one-third of our 2013 retail purchases were directly from vendors in the People’s Republic of China.  We have relationships with foreign buying agencies to source purchased product, monitor quality control and supplement product development.

Operational and Inventory Controls: Our information technology and telecommunications systems and various analytical tools are used to evaluate store operating information and provide management with reports to support prompt detection of unusual variances in food costs, labor costs or operating expenses.  Management also monitors individual store restaurant and retail sales on a daily basis and closely monitors sales mix, sales trends, operational costs and inventory levels. The information generated by the information technology and telecommunication systems, analysis tools and monitoring processes is used to manage the operations of each store, replenish retail inventory levels and facilitate retail purchasing decisions.  These systems and processes also are used in the development of forecasts, budget analyses and planning.

Guest Satisfaction:  We are committed to providing our guests a home-style, country-cooked meal, and a variety of retail merchandise served and sold with genuine hospitality in a comfortable environment, in a way that evokes memories of the past.  Our commitment to offering guests a quality experience begins with our employees.  Our mission statement, “Pleasing People,” embraces guests and employees alike, and our employees are trained on the importance of that mission in a culture of mutual respect.  We also are committed to staffing each store with an experienced management team to ensure attentive guest service and consistent food quality.  Through the regular use of guest surveys and store visits by district managers and regional vice presidents, management receives valuable feedback that is used in our ongoing efforts to improve the stores and to demonstrate our continuing commitment to pleasing our guests.  We have a guest-relations call center that takes comments and suggestions from guests and forwards them to operations or other management for information and follow up.  We use an interactive voice response system to monitor operational performance and guest satisfaction at all stores on an ongoing basis.  We have public notices in our menus, on our website and posted in our stores informing customers and employees about how to contact us by Internet or toll-free telephone number with questions, complaints or concerns regarding services or products.  We conduct training in how to gather information and investigate and resolve customer concerns.  This is accompanied by comprehensive training for all store employees on our public accommodations policy and commitment to "Pleasing People."

Marketing: We employ multiple mediums to reach and engage our guests.  Outdoor advertising (i.e., billboards and state department of transportation signs) is the largest advertising vehicle we use to reach our traveling and local guests. In 2013, we had over 1,600 billboards and this expenditure accounted for 49% of our total advertising spend.  We believe we are among the top billboard advertisers in the restaurant industry.  Our use of broadcast media has increased as we look to build market awareness for local visits with two flights of broadcast media each year during our key seasonal periods.  Each flight includes national cable television and spot radio (in markets covering close to 70% of our stores).  We continue to increase our efforts in the digital space to drive preference and engagement with the brand.  We now have properties on multiple social media sites, including a customer relationship management program, an e-commerce platform and our brand site.  Our exclusive music program drives awareness for the brand and builds cultural relevance and affinity with our guests.  We continue to have multiple releases each year with specific promotional support for each release.  In 2014, we plan to spend approximately 2.2% of our revenues on advertising compared to 2.3% of revenues in 2013.  Outdoor advertising is expected to represent approximately 47% of advertising expenditures in 2014.

STORE DEVELOPMENT
 
We opened eight new stores in 2013. We also plan to open seven or eight new stores during 2014, none of which was open as of September 20, 2013. As of September 20, 2013, approximately 84% of our stores are located along interstate highways. Our remaining stores are located off-interstate or near tourist destinations. We believe we should pursue development of both interstate locations and off-interstate locations to capitalize on the strength of our brand associated with travelers on the interstate highway system and by locating in certain local markets where our guests live and work.

Of the 624 stores open as of September 20, 2013, we own the land and buildings for 412, while the other 212 properties are either ground leases or ground and building leases.  Land costs for stores opened during 2013 averaged $900 per site if owned.  Building, site improvement, furniture, equipment and related development costs for stores opened during 2013 averaged $2,800.  Pre-opening costs were in the range of $290 to $360 per store in 2013.

Our current store prototype is approximately 9,000 square feet, including approximately 2,100 square feet of retail selling space, and has dining room seating for 177 guests.  Our capital investment in new stores may differ in the future due to building design specifications, site location and site characteristics.

EMPLOYEES

As of August 2, 2013, we employed approximately 71,000 people, of whom 456 were in advisory and supervisory capacities, 3,701 were in-store management positions and 36 were officers.  Many store personnel are employed on a part‑time basis.  None of our employees is represented by any union, and management considers its employee relations to be good.

COMPETITION

The restaurant and retail industries are intensely competitive with respect to the type and quality of food, retail merchandise, price, service, location, personnel, concept, attractiveness of facilities and effectiveness of advertising and marketing.  We compete with a significant number of national and regional restaurant and retail chains, some of which have greater resources than us, as well as locally owned restaurants and retail stores.  The restaurant and retail businesses are often affected by changes in consumer taste and preference; national, regional or local economic conditions; demographic trends; traffic patterns; the type, number and location of competing restaurants and retailers; and consumers’ discretionary purchasing power.  In addition, factors such as inflation, increased food, labor and benefits costs and the lack of experienced management and hourly employees may adversely affect the restaurant and retail industries in general and our stores in particular.

RAW MATERIALS SOURCES AND AVAILABILITY

Essential restaurant supplies and raw materials are generally available from several sources.  However, in our stores, certain branded items are single source products or product lines.  Generally, we are not dependent upon single sources of supplies or raw materials.  Our ability to maintain consistent quality throughout our store system depends in part upon our ability to acquire food products and related items from reliable sources.  When the supply of certain products is uncertain or prices are expected to rise significantly, we may enter into purchase contracts or purchase bulk quantities for future use.

Adequate alternative sources of supply, as well as the ability to adjust menus if needed, are believed to exist for substantially all of our restaurant products.  Our retail supply chain generally involves longer lead-times and, often, more remote sources of product, including the People’s Republic of China, and most of our retail product is distributed to our stores through a single distribution center.  Although disruption of our retail supply chain could be difficult to overcome, we continuously evaluate the potential for disruptions and ways to mitigate them should they occur.

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

Federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations have not historically had a significant impact on our operations; however, we cannot predict the effect of possible future environmental legislation or regulations on our operations.

TRADEMARKS

We deem the various Cracker Barrel trademarks and service marks that we own to be of substantial value.  Our policy is to obtain federal registration of trademarks and other intellectual property whenever possible and to pursue vigorously any infringement of our trademarks.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

While research and development is important to us, these expenditures have not been material due to the nature of the restaurant and retail industries.

SEASONAL ASPECTS

Historically, our profits have been lower in the first and third fiscal quarters and higher in the second and fourth fiscal quarters.  We attribute these variations primarily to the Christmas holiday shopping season and the summer vacation and travel season.  Our gift shop sales, which are made substantially to our restaurant guests, historically have been highest in our second quarter, which includes the Christmas holiday shopping season.  Historically, interstate tourist traffic and the propensity to dine out have been much higher during the summer months, thereby generally contributing to higher profits in the Company’s fourth quarter.  We also generally open additional new stores throughout the year.  Therefore, the results of operations for any interim period cannot be considered indicative of the operating results for an entire year.

WORKING CAPITAL

In the restaurant industry, substantially all sales are either for cash or third-party credit card.  Therefore, like many other restaurant companies, we are able to, and often do operate with negative working capital.  Restaurant inventories purchased through our principal food distributor are on terms of net zero days, while other restaurant inventories purchased locally generally are financed through trade credit at terms of 30 days or less.  Because of our gift shop, which has a lower product turnover than the restaurant, we carry larger inventories than many other companies in the restaurant industry.  Retail inventories are generally financed through trade credit at terms of 60 days or less.  These various trade terms are aided by rapid product turnover of the restaurant inventory.  Employees generally are paid on weekly or semi-monthly schedules in arrears of hours worked except for bonuses that are paid either quarterly or annually in arrears.  Many other operating expenses have normal trade terms and certain expenses, such as certain taxes and some benefits, are deferred for longer periods of time.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

Investing in our securities involves a degree of risk.  Persons buying our securities should carefully consider the risks described below and the other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings that we make from time to time with the SEC, including our consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes.  If any of the following risks actually occurs, our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected. In any such case, the trading price of our securities could decline and you could lose all or part of your investment.

General economic, business and societal conditions as well as those specific to the restaurant or retail industries that are largely out of our control may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our business results depend on a number of industry-specific and general economic factors, many of which are beyond our control.  These factors include consumer income, interest rates, inflation, consumer credit availability, consumer debt levels, tax rates and policy, unemployment trends and other matters that influence consumer confidence and spending. The full-service dining sector of the restaurant industry and the retail industry are affected by changes in national, regional and local economic conditions, seasonal fluctuation of sales volumes, consumer preferences, including changes in consumer tastes and dietary habits and the level of consumer acceptance of our restaurant concept and retail merchandise, and consumer spending patterns.

Discretionary consumer spending, which is critical to our success, is influenced by general economic conditions and the availability of discretionary income. Global economic factors and a weak economic recovery have reduced consumer confidence and affected consumers’ ability or desire to spend disposable income. A deterioration in the economy or other economic conditions affecting disposable consumer income, such as unemployment levels, reduced home values, investment losses, inflation, business conditions, fuel and other energy costs, consumer debt levels, lack of available credit, consumer confidence, interest rates, tax rates and changes in tax laws, may adversely affect our business by reducing overall consumer spending or by causing customers to reduce the frequency with which they shop and dine out or to shift their spending to our competitors or to products sold by us that are less profitable than other product choices, all of which could result in lower revenues, decreases in inventory turnover, greater markdowns on inventory, and a reduction in profitability due to lower margins.
 
In addition, many of the factors discussed above, along with the current economic environment and the related impact on available credit, may affect us and our suppliers and other business partners, landlords, and customers in an adverse manner, including, but not limited to, reducing access to liquid funds or credit (including through the loss of one or more financial institutions that are a part of our revolving credit facility), increasing the cost of credit, limiting our ability to manage interest rate risk, increasing the risk of bankruptcy of our suppliers, landlords or counterparties to or other financial institutions involved in our credit facility and our derivative and other contracts, increasing the cost of goods to us, and other adverse consequences which we are unable to fully anticipate.

We also cannot predict the effects of actual or threatened armed conflicts or terrorist attacks, efforts to combat terrorism, military action against any foreign state or group located in a foreign state or heightened security requirements on the economy or consumer confidence in the United States.  Any of these events could also affect consumer sentiment and confidence that in turn affect consumer spending patterns or result in increased costs for us due to security measures.

Unfavorable changes in the factors described above or in other business and economic conditions affecting our customers could increase our costs, reduce traffic in some or all of our locations or impose practical limits on pricing, any of which could lower our profit margins and have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

There can be no assurance that the economic conditions that have adversely affected the restaurant and retail industries, and the capital, credit and real estate markets generally or us in particular will remain static in 2014, or thereafter, in which case we could experience declines in revenues and profits, and could face capital and liquidity constraints or other business challenges.
 
We face intense competition, and if we are unable to continue to compete effectively, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be adversely affected.

The restaurant and retail industries are intensely competitive, and we face many well-established competitors.  We compete within each market with national and regional restaurant and retail chains and locally-owned restaurants and retailers.  Competition from other regional or national restaurant and retail chains typically represents the more important competitive influence, principally because of their significant marketing and financial resources.  We also face competition as a result of the convergence of grocery, deli, retail and restaurant services, particularly in the supermarket industry.  Moreover, our competitors can harm our business even if they are not successful in their own operations by taking away customers or employees through aggressive and costly advertising, promotions or hiring practices.  We compete primarily on the quality, variety and perceived value of menu and retail items. The number and location of stores, the growth of e-commerce, type of concept, quality and efficiency of service, attractiveness of facilities and effectiveness of advertising and marketing programs also are important factors. We anticipate that intense competition will continue with respect to all of these factors.  We also compete with other restaurant chains and other retail businesses for quality site locations, management and hourly employees, and competitive pressures could affect both the availability and cost of these important resources.  If we are unable to continue to compete effectively, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be adversely affected.

The price and availability of food, ingredients, retail merchandise and utilities used by our stores could adversely affect our revenues and results of operations.

We are subject to the general risks of inflation, and our operating profit margins and results of operations depend significantly on our ability to anticipate and react to changes in the price, quality and availability of food and other commodities, ingredients, retail merchandise, utilities and other related costs over which we have limited control.  Fluctuations in economic conditions, weather, demand and other factors affect the availability, quality and cost of the ingredients and products that we buy.  Some climatologists predict that the long-term effects of climate change may result in more severe, volatile weather, which could result in greater volatility in product supply and price.  Furthermore, many of the products that we use and their costs are interrelated.  The increased global demand for corn, wheat and dairy products has increased feed costs for poultry and livestock. The effect of, introduction of, or changes to tariffs or exchange rates on imported retail products or food products could increase our costs and possibly affect the supply of those products.  Our operating margins are also affected, whether as a result of general inflation or otherwise, by fluctuations in the price of utilities such as natural gas and electricity, on which our locations depend for much of their energy supply.  Our inability to anticipate and respond effectively to one or more adverse changes in any of these factors could have a significant adverse effect on our results of operations.  In addition, because we provide a moderately-priced product, we may not seek to or be able to pass along price increases to our customers sufficient to completely offset cost increases.

We are dependent upon attracting and retaining qualified employees while also controlling labor costs.

Our performance is dependent on attracting and retaining a large and growing number of qualified store employees.  Availability of staff varies widely from location to location.  Many staff members are in entry-level or part-time positions, typically with high rates of turnover.  Even though recent trends in employee turnover have been favorable, if store management and staff turnover were to increase, we could suffer higher direct costs associated with recruiting, training and retaining replacement personnel.  Management turnover as well as general shortages in the labor pool can cause our stores to be operated with reduced staff, which negatively affects our ability to provide appropriate service levels to our customers.  Competition for qualified employees exerts upward pressure on wages paid to attract such personnel, resulting in higher labor costs, together with greater recruiting and training expenses.

Our ability to meet our labor needs while controlling our costs is subject to external factors such as unemployment levels, minimum wage legislation, health care legislation, payroll taxes and changing demographics.  Many of our employees are hourly workers whose wages are affected by increases in the federal or state minimum wage or changes to tip credits.  Tip credits are the amounts an employer is permitted to assume an employee receives in tips when the employer calculates the employee’s hourly wage for minimum wage compliance purposes.  Increases in minimum wage levels and changes to the tip credit have been made and continue to be proposed at both federal and state levels.  As minimum wage rates increase, we may need to increase not only the wages of our minimum wage employees but also the wages paid to employees at wage rates that are above minimum wage.  If competitive pressures or other factors prevent us from offsetting increased labor costs by increases in prices, our profitability may decline.

Our risks are heightened because of our single retail distribution facility and our potential inability or failure to execute on a comprehensive business continuity plan following a major national disaster at or near our corporate facility could adversely affect our business.

The majority of our retail inventory is shipped into, stored at and shipped out of a single warehouse located in Lebanon, Tennessee.  All of the decorative fixtures used in our stores are shipped into, stored at and shipped out of a separate warehouse that is also located in Lebanon, Tennessee.  A natural disaster affecting either of these warehouses could materially adversely affect our business.  Additionally, our corporate systems and processes and support for our restaurant and retail operations are centralized on one campus in Tennessee. We have disaster recovery procedures and business continuity plans in place to address most events and back up and offsite locations for recovery of electronic and other forms of data and information.  However, if we are unable to implement our disaster recovery and business continuity plans, we may experience delays in recovery of data, failure to support field operations, tardiness in required reporting and compliance and the inability to perform vital corporate functions which could adversely affect our business.
Our reliance on certain significant vendors, particularly for foreign-sourced retail products, subjects us to numerous risks, including possible interruptions in supply, which could adversely affect our business.

Our ability to maintain consistent quality throughout our operations depends in part upon our ability to acquire specified food and retail products and supplies in sufficient quantities.  Partly because of our size, finding qualified vendors and accessing food, retail products, supplies and certain outsourced services in a timely and efficient manner is a significant challenge that typically is more difficult with respect to goods or services sourced outside the United States.  In some cases, we may have only one supplier for a product or service.  Our dependence on single-source suppliers subjects us to the possible risks of shortages, interruptions and price fluctuations, and possible litigation when we change vendors because of performance issues. Global economic factors and the weak economic recovery continue to put significant pressure on suppliers, with some suppliers facing financial distress and others attempting to rebuild profitability, all of which tends to make the supply environment more expensive.  If any of these vendors is unable to fulfill its obligations, or if we are unable to find replacement suppliers in the event of a supply disruption, we could encounter supply shortages and/or incur higher costs to secure adequate supplies, either of which could materially harm our business.

Additionally, we use a number of products that are or may be manufactured in a number of foreign countries.  In addition to the risk presented by the possible long lead times to source these products, our results of operations may be materially affected by risks such as:

· fluctuating currency exchange rates;
· foreign government regulations;
· foreign currency exchange control regulations;
· import/export restrictions and product testing regulations;
· foreign political and economic instability;
· disruptions due to labor stoppages, strikes or slowdowns, or other disruptions, involving our vendors or the transportation and handling industries; and
· tariffs, trade barriers and other trade restrictions by the U.S. government on products or components shipped from foreign sources.

Possible shortages or interruptions in the supply of food items, retail merchandise and other supplies to our stores caused by inclement weather, natural disasters such as droughts, floods and earthquakes, the inability of our vendors to obtain credit in a tightened credit market or other conditions beyond our control could adversely affect the availability, quality and cost of the items we buy and the operations of our stores.  Our inability to effectively manage supply chain risk could increase our costs and limit the availability of products that are critical to our store operations.  If we temporarily close a store or remove popular items from a store’s menu or retail product assortment, that store may experience a significant reduction in revenue during the time affected by the shortage or thereafter as a result of our customers changing their dining and shopping habits.
 
Our ability to manage our retail inventory levels and changes in merchandise mix may adversely affect our business.
 
The long lead times required for a substantial portion of our retail merchandise and the risk of product damages or non-compliance with required specifications could affect the amount of inventory we have available for sale.  Additionally, our success depends on our ability to anticipate and respond in a timely manner to changing consumer demand and preferences for merchandise. If we misjudge the market, we may overstock unpopular products and be forced to take significant markdowns, which could reduce our gross margin.  Conversely, if we underestimate demand for our merchandise we may experience inventory shortages resulting in lost revenues.  Any of these factors could have an adverse effect on our results of operations and our financial condition.
Our plans depend significantly on initiatives designed to improve the efficiencies, costs and effectiveness of our operations, and failure to achieve or sustain these plans could adversely affect our results of operations.

We have had, and expect to continue to have, initiatives in various stages of testing, evaluation and implementation, upon which we expect to rely to improve our results of operations and financial condition.  Many of these initiatives are inherently risky and uncertain in their application to our business in general, even when tested successfully on a more limited scale.  It is possible that successful testing can result partially from resources and attention that cannot be duplicated in broader implementation. Testing and general implementation also can be affected by other risk factors described herein that reduce the results expected. Successful system-wide implementation across hundreds of stores and involving tens of thousands of employees relies on consistency of training, stability of workforce, ease of execution and the absence of offsetting factors that can adversely influence results. Failure to achieve successful implementation of our initiatives could adversely affect our results of operations.

Our capital structure contains substantial indebtedness, which may decrease our flexibility, increase our borrowing costs and adversely affect our liquidity.  In addition, we cannot provide any guaranty of future cash dividend payments or that we will be able to repurchase our common stock pursuant to our share repurchase program.

Our consolidated indebtedness and our leverage ratio may have the effect, among other things, of reducing our flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions and increasing borrowing costs.  There are various financial covenants and other restrictions in our credit facility. If we fail to comply with any of these requirements, the related indebtedness (and other unrelated indebtedness) could become due and payable prior to its stated maturity.  A default under our credit agreement may also significantly affect our ability to obtain additional or alternative financing.  For example, the lenders’ ongoing obligation to extend credit under the revolving credit facility is dependent upon our compliance with these covenants and restrictions.

Our ability to make scheduled principal and interest payments or to refinance our obligations with respect to indebtedness will depend on our operating and financial performance, which, in turn, is subject to prevailing economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors beyond our control.  Our inability to refinance our indebtedness when necessary or to do so upon attractive terms would materially and adversely affect our liquidity and our ongoing results of operations.

We have recently increased our quarterly cash dividends on our common stock.  Any determination to pay cash dividends on our common stock in the future will be based primarily upon our financial condition, results of operations, business requirements and our Board of Directors’ conclusion that the declaration of cash dividends is in the best interest of our shareholders and is in compliance with all laws and agreements applicable to the dividend.  Furthermore, although the Board of Directors has authorized a share repurchase program, there can be no assurance that we will repurchase our common stock pursuant to the plan and we may discontinue the plan at any time.
 
Our advertising is heavily dependent on billboards, which are highly regulated; our evolving marketing strategy poses a risk of increased advertising and marketing costs that could adversely affect our results of operations.

Historically, we have relied upon billboards as our principal method of advertising.  A number of states in which we operate restrict highway signage and billboards.  Because many of our stores are located on the interstate highway system, our business is highly related to highway travel. Thus, signage or billboard restrictions or loss of existing signage or billboards could affect our visibility and ability to attract customers.

Additionally, as we continue to build stores away from our traditional interstate locations and evolve our marketing strategy, we are increasingly utilizing more traditional methods of advertising, such as national cable television, radio and online and digital media.  These types of advertising, their effects upon our revenues and, in turn, our profits, are uncertain.  Additionally, if our competitors increased their spending on advertising and promotions, we could be forced to substantially increase our advertising, media or marketing expenses.  If we did so or if our current advertising and promotion programs become less effective, we could experience a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
We outsource certain business processes to third-party vendors that subject us to risks, including disruptions in business and increased costs; our use of third party technologies has increased and if we are unable to maintain our rights to these technologies our business may be harmed.

Some of our business processes are currently outsourced to third parties.  Such processes include distribution of food and retail products to our store locations, credit and debit card authorization and processing, gift card tracking and authorization, employee payroll card services, health care and workers’ compensation insurance claims processing, wage and related tax credit documentation and approval, guest loyalty programs, employee engagement surveys and externally hosted business software applications. We cannot ensure that all providers of outsourced services are observing proper internal control practices, such as redundant processing facilities, and there are no guarantees that failures will not occur.  Failure of third parties to provide adequate services could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

We rely on certain technology licensed from third parties and may be required to license additional technology in the future for use in managing our Internet sites and providing services to our guests and employees.  These third-party technology licenses may not continue to be available to us on acceptable terms or at all.  The inability to enter into and maintain these technology licenses could adversely affect our business.

Our business is somewhat seasonal and also can be affected by extreme weather conditions and natural disasters.

Historically, our highest sales and profits have occurred during the second and fourth quarters, which include the Christmas holiday shopping season and the summer vacation and travel season.  Retail sales historically have been seasonally higher between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Therefore, the results of operations for any quarter or period of less than one year cannot be considered indicative of the operating results for an entire year.

Additionally, extreme weather conditions in the areas where our stores are located can adversely affect our business. For example, frequent or unusually heavy snowfall, ice storms, rain storms, floods, droughts or other extreme weather conditions over a prolonged period could make it difficult for our customers to travel to our stores and can disrupt deliveries of food and supplies to our stores and thereby reduce our sales and profitability. Our business is also susceptible to unseasonable weather conditions. For example, extended periods of unseasonably warm temperatures during the winter season or cool weather during the summer season could render a portion of our retail inventory incompatible with those unseasonable conditions.  Reduced sales from extreme or prolonged unseasonable weather conditions could adversely affect our business.  These risks may be exacerbated in the future as some climatologists predict that the long-term effects of climate change may result in more severe, volatile weather.

In addition, natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes, or a combination of these or other factors, could severely damage or destroy one or more of our stores, warehouses or suppliers located in the affected areas, thereby disrupting our business operations for a more extended period of time.

If we fail to execute our business strategy, which includes our ability to find new store locations and open new stores that are profitable, our business could suffer.

Historically, a significant means of achieving our growth objectives has been opening and operating new and profitable stores. This strategy involves numerous risks, and we may not be able to achieve our growth objectives – that is, we may not be able to open all of our planned new stores and the new stores that we open may not be profitable or as profitable as our existing stores.  New stores typically experience an adjustment period before sales levels and operating margins normalize, and even sales at successful newly-opened stores generally do not make a significant contribution to profitability in their initial months of operation. The opening of new stores can also have an adverse effect on sales levels at existing stores.

A significant risk in executing our business strategy is locating and securing an adequate supply of suitable new store sites.  Competition for suitable store sites and operating personnel in our target markets is intense, and we cannot assure you that we will be able to find sufficient suitable locations, or negotiate suitable purchase or lease terms, for our planned expansion in any future period.  The recession and resulting weak economic recovery has affected commercial development activity and has limited the availability of attractive sites for new stores.  Delays or failures in opening new stores, or achieving lower than expected sales in new stores, or drawing a greater than expected proportion of sales in new stores from existing stores, could materially adversely affect our business strategy.  Our ability to open new stores successfully also depends on numerous other factors, some of which are beyond our control, including, among other items discussed in other risk factors, the following:  our ability to control construction and development costs of new stores; our ability to manage the local, state or other regulatory, zoning and licensing processes in a timely manner; our ability to appropriately train employees and staff the stores; consumer acceptance of our stores in new markets; our ability to manage construction delays related to the opening of any facility; and our ability to secure required governmental approvals and permits in a timely manner, or at all.

We cannot assure you that we will be able to respond on a timely basis to all of the changing demands that our store expansion imposes on management and on our existing infrastructure, nor that we will be able to hire or retain the necessary management and operating personnel. Our existing store management systems, financial and management controls and information systems may not be adequate to support our planned expansion. Our ability to manage our growth effectively will require us to continue to enhance these systems, procedures and controls and to locate, hire, train and retain management and operating personnel.

Individual store locations are affected by local conditions that could change and adversely affect the carrying value of those locations.

The success of our business depends on the success of individual locations, which in turn depends on stability of or improvements in operating conditions at and around those locations.  Our revenues and expenses can be affected significantly by the number and timing of the opening of new stores and the closing, relocating and remodeling of existing stores. We incur substantial pre-opening expenses each time we open a new store and other expenses when we close, relocate or remodel existing stores. The expenses of opening, closing, relocating or remodeling any of our stores may be higher than anticipated.  An increase in such expenses could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.   Also, as demographic and economic patterns (e.g., highway or roadway traffic patterns, concentrations of general retail or hotel activity, local population densities or increased competition) change, current locations may not continue to be attractive or profitable.  Possible declines in neighborhoods where our stores are located or adverse economic conditions in areas surrounding those neighborhoods could result in reduced revenues in those locations.  The occurrence of one or more of these events could have a significant adverse effect on our revenues and results of operations as well as the carrying value of our individual locations.

Health concerns, government regulation relating to the consumption of food products and widespread infectious diseases could affect consumer preferences and could negatively affect our results of operations.

The sale of food and prepared food products for human consumption involves the risk of injury to our customers.  Such injuries may result from tampering by unauthorized third parties, product contamination or spoilage, including the presence of foreign objects, substances, chemicals, other agents, or residues introduced during the growing, storage, handling and transportation phases.  Additionally, many of the food items on our menu contain beef and chicken. The preferences of our customers toward beef and chicken could be affected by health concerns about the consumption of beef or chicken or health concerns and publicity concerning food quality, illness and injury generally.  In recent years there has been publicity concerning E. coli bacteria, hepatitis A, “mad cow” disease, “foot-and-mouth” disease, salmonella, the bird/avian flu, peanut and other food allergens, and other public health concerns affecting the food supply, including beef, chicken, pork, dairy and eggs.  In addition, if a regional or global health pandemic occurs, depending upon its location, duration and severity, our business could be severely affected.  In the event a health pandemic occurs, customers might avoid public places, and local, regional or national governments might limit or ban public gatherings to halt or delay the spread of disease.  A regional or global health pandemic might also adversely affect our business by disrupting or delaying production and delivery of materials and products in our supply chain and by causing staffing shortages in our stores. In addition, government regulations or the likelihood of government regulation could increase the costs of obtaining or preparing food products.  A decrease in guest traffic to our stores, a change in our mix of products sold or an increase in costs as a result of these health concerns either in general or specific to our operations, could result in a decrease in sales or higher costs to our stores that would materially harm our business.

Failure to maximize or to successfully assert our intellectual property rights could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

We rely on trademark, trade secret and copyright laws to protect our intellectual property rights.  We cannot guarantee that these intellectual property rights will be maximized or that they can be successfully asserted.  There is a risk that we will not be able to obtain and perfect our own, or, where appropriate, license intellectual property rights necessary to support new product introductions or other brand extensions.  We cannot be sure that these rights, if obtained, will not be invalidated, circumvented or challenged in the future.  Our failure to perfect or successfully assert our intellectual property rights could make us less competitive and could have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

Litigation may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our business is subject to the risk of litigation by employees, guests, suppliers, shareholders, governmental agencies or others through private actions, class actions, administrative proceedings, regulatory actions or other litigation.  These actions and proceedings may involve allegations of illegal, unfair or inconsistent employment practices, including wage and hour violations and employment discrimination; guest discrimination; food safety issues including poor food quality, food-borne illness, food tampering, food contamination, and adverse health effects from consumption of various food products or high-calorie foods (including obesity); other personal injury; trademark and patent infringement; violation of the federal securities laws; or other concerns. The outcome of litigation, particularly class action lawsuits and regulatory actions, is difficult to assess or quantify.  Plaintiffs in these types of lawsuits may seek recovery of very large or indeterminate amounts and the magnitude of the potential loss relating to such lawsuits may remain unknown for substantial periods of time.  The cost to defend future litigation may be significant.  There may also be adverse publicity associated with litigation that could decrease guest or consumer acceptance of our brand, regardless of whether the allegations are valid or we ultimately are found liable.  Litigation could adversely impact our operations and our ability to expand our brand in other ways as well.  As a result, litigation may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Unfavorable publicity could harm our business.

Multi-unit businesses such as ours can be adversely affected by publicity resulting from complaints or litigation alleging poor food quality, poor service, food-borne illness, product defects, personal injury, adverse health effects (including obesity) or other concerns stemming from one or a limited number of our stores.  Even when the allegations or complaints are not valid, unfavorable publicity relating to a limited number of our stores, or only to a single store, could adversely affect public perception of the entire brand.  Additionally, negative publicity from online social network postings may also result from actual or alleged incidents taking place in our stores.  Adverse publicity and its effect on overall consumer perceptions of food safety or customer service could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The loss of key executives or difficulties in recruiting and retaining qualified personnel could jeopardize our future growth and success.

We have assembled a senior management team which has substantial background and experience in the restaurant and retail industries.  Our future growth and success depends substantially on the contributions and abilities of our senior management and other key personnel, and we design our compensation programs to attract and retain key personnel and facilitate our ability to develop effective succession plans.  If we fail to retain senior management or other key personnel or to attract key personnel, our succession planning and operations could be materially and adversely affected.  We must continue to recruit, retain and motivate management and other employees sufficient to maintain our current business and support our projected growth. A loss of key employees or a significant shortage of high quality store employees could jeopardize our ability to meet our business goals.

We are subject to a number of risks relating to federal, state and local regulation of our business, including the areas of health care reform and environmental matters, and an insufficient or ineffective response to government regulation may increase our costs and decrease our profit margins.

The restaurant industry is subject to extensive federal, state and local laws and regulations, including those relating to food safety, minimum wage and other labor issues including unionization, health care, menu labeling and building and zoning requirements and those relating to the preparation and sale of food as well as certain retail products.  The development and operation of our stores depend to a significant extent on the selection and acquisition of suitable sites, which are subject to zoning, land use, environmental, traffic and other regulations and requirements.  We are also subject to licensing and regulation by state and local authorities relating to health, sanitation, safety and fire standards, federal and state laws governing our relationships with employees (including the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 and applicable requirements concerning minimum wage, overtime, healthcare coverage, family leave, medical privacy, tip credits, working conditions, safety standards and immigration status), federal and state laws which prohibit discrimination and other laws regulating the design and operation of facilities, such as the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990.  In addition, we are subject to a variety of federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to the use, storage, discharge, emission and disposal of hazardous materials.  We also face risks from new and changing laws and regulations relating to gift cards, nutritional content, nutritional labeling, product safety and menu labeling. Compliance with these laws and regulations can be costly and can increase our exposure to litigation or governmental investigations or proceedings.

In March 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Affordability Reconciliation Act of 2010 was enacted and, in June 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the law except for certain parts related to the expansion of Medicaid.  Although we cannot predict with certainty the financial and operational impacts the law will have on us, such changes could affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.  The law requires restaurant companies such as ours to disclose calorie information on their menus.  We do not expect to incur any material costs from compliance with this provision of the law, but cannot anticipate the changes in guest behavior that could result from the implementation of this provision, which could have an adverse effect on our sales or results of operations.
There also has been increasing focus by U.S. and overseas governmental authorities on environmental matters, such as climate change, the reduction of greenhouse gases and water consumption.  This increased focus may lead to new initiatives directed at regulating an as yet unspecified array of environmental matters, such as the emission of greenhouse gases, where “cap and trade” initiatives could effectively impose a tax on carbon emissions.  Legislative, regulatory or other efforts to combat climate change or other environmental concerns could result in future increases in taxes, the cost of raw materials, transportation and utilities, which could decrease our operating profits and necessitate future investments in facilities and equipment.

The impact of current laws and regulations, the effect of future changes in laws or regulations that impose additional requirements and the consequences of litigation relating to current or future laws and regulations could increase our compliance and other costs of doing business and therefore have an adverse effect on our results of operations.  Failure to comply with the laws and regulatory requirements of federal, state and local authorities could result in, among other things, revocation of required licenses, administrative enforcement actions, fines and civil and criminal liability.  Compliance with these laws and regulations can be costly and can increase our exposure to litigation or governmental investigations or proceedings.  Also, the failure to obtain and maintain required licenses, permits and approvals could adversely affect our operating results.  Typically, licenses must be renewed annually and may be revoked, suspended or denied renewal for cause at any time if governmental authorities determine that our conduct violates applicable regulations, which could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Our current insurance programs may expose us to unexpected costs, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Our insurance coverage is structured to include deductibles, self-insured retentions, limits of liability, retroactive premium adjustments and similar provisions that we believe prudent based on the dispersion of our operations. However, there are types of losses we may incur against which we cannot be insured or which we believe are not economically reasonable to insure, such as losses due to acts of terrorism and some natural disasters, including floods.  If we incur such losses, our business could suffer.  In addition, we self-insure a significant portion of expected losses under our workers’ compensation, general liability and group health insurance programs. Unanticipated changes in the actuarial assumptions and management estimates underlying our reserves for these losses, including unexpected increases in medical and indemnity costs, could result in materially different amounts of expense than expected under these programs.

A material disruption in our information technology, network infrastructure and telecommunication systems could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

We rely extensively on our information technology across our operations, including, but not limited to, point of sales processing, supply chain management, retail merchandise allocation and distribution, labor productivity and expense management   Our business depends significantly on the reliability and capacity of our information technology systems to process these transactions, summarize results, manage and report on our business and our supply chain.  Our information technology systems are subject to damage or interruption from power outages, computer, network, cable system, internet and telecommunications failures, computer viruses, security breaches, catastrophic events such as fires, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, acts of war or terrorism, and usage errors by our employees. If our information technology and telecommunication systems are damaged or cease to function properly, we may have to make a significant investment to repair or replace them, and we could suffer loss of critical data and interruptions or delays in our operations in the interim.  Any material interruption in our information technology and telecommunication systems could adversely affect our business or results of operations.

A privacy breach could adversely affect our business.

The protection of customer, employee and company data is critical to us.  We are subject to laws relating to information security, privacy, cashless payments, consumer credit, and fraud.  Additionally, an increasing number of government and industry groups have established laws and standards for the protection of personal and health information. The regulatory environment surrounding information security and privacy is increasingly demanding, with the frequent imposition of new and constantly changing requirements. Compliance with these requirements may result in cost increases due to necessary systems changes and the development of new administrative processes. In addition, customers and employees have a high expectation that we will adequately protect their personal information. For example, in connection with credit and debit card sales, we transmit confidential card information. Third parties may have the technology or know-how to breach the security of this customer information, and our security measures and those of our technology vendors may not effectively prohibit others from obtaining improper access to this information. If we fail to comply with the laws and regulations regarding privacy and security or experience a security breach, we could be exposed to risks of data loss, fines, a loss of the ability to process credit and debit card payments, litigation and serious disruption of our operations.  Additionally, any resulting negative publicity could significantly harm our reputation.

Our reported results can be affected adversely and unexpectedly by the implementation of new, or changes in the interpretation of existing, accounting principles or financial reporting requirements.

Our financial reporting complies with the United States generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), and GAAP is subject to change over time.  If new rules or interpretations of existing rules require us to change our financial reporting (including the proposed lease accounting changes and the adoption of international financial reporting standards in the United States), our reported results of operations and financial condition could be affected substantially, including requirements to restate historical financial reporting.

Failure of our internal control over financial reporting could adversely affect our business and financial results.

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is a process to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting for external purposes in accordance with GAAP. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting is not intended to provide absolute assurance that we would prevent or detect a misstatement of our financial statements or fraud.  Any failure to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting could limit our ability to report our financial results accurately and timely or to detect and prevent fraud.  The identification of a material weakness could indicate a lack of controls adequate to generate accurate financial statements that, in turn, could cause a loss of investor confidence and decline in the market price of our common stock.  We cannot assure you that we will be able to timely remediate any material weaknesses that may be identified in future periods or maintain all of the controls necessary for continued compliance. Likewise, we cannot assure you that we will be able to retain sufficient skilled finance and accounting personnel, especially in light of the increased demand for such personnel among publicly traded companies.

Our annual and quarterly operating results may fluctuate significantly and could fall below the expectations of investors and securities analysts due to a number of factors, some of which are beyond our control, resulting either in volatility or a decline in the price of our securities.

Our business is not static – it changes periodically as a result of many factors, including those discussed above and:

· increases and decreases in average weekly sales, restaurant and retail sales and restaurant profitability;
· the rate at which we open new stores, the timing of new store openings and the related high initial operating costs;
· changes in advertising and promotional activities and expansion into new markets; and impairment of long-lived assets and any loss on store closures.

Our quarterly operating results and restaurant and retail sales may fluctuate as a result of any of these or other factors.  Accordingly, results for any one quarter are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for any other quarter or for any year, and restaurant and retail sales for any particular future period may decrease.  In the future, operating results may fall below the expectations of securities analysts and investors.  In that event, the price of our securities could fluctuate dramatically over time or could decrease generally.

Our business could be negatively affected as a result of a proxy fight and the actions of activist shareholders.

We recently received a notice from The Lion Fund II, L.P., an affiliate of Biglari Holdings Inc. (“BH”), the owner of Steak N Shake and Western Sizzlin’ restaurants, that indicates its intention to nominate Sardar Biglari, BH’s chairman and chief executive officer, and Phillip Cooley, BH’s Vice Chairman, for election to our board of directors at our 2013 annual meeting of shareholders.  If a proxy contest involving BH and its affiliates ensues, or if we become engaged in a proxy contest with another activist shareholder in the future, our business could be adversely affected because:

· responding to proxy contests and other actions by activist shareholders can disrupt our operations, be costly and time-consuming, and divert the attention of our management and employees;
· perceived uncertainties as to our future direction may result in the loss of potential business opportunities, and may make it more difficult to attract and retain qualified personnel and business partners; and
·
if individuals are elected to our board of directors to pursue an activist shareholder’s particular agenda, it may adversely affect our ability to effectively implement our business strategy and create additional value for our shareholders.

Provisions in our charter, Tennessee law and our shareholder rights plan may discourage potential acquirers of the Company.

Our charter documents contain provisions that may have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire or attempt to acquire control of the Company.  In addition, we are subject to certain provisions of Tennessee law that limit, in some cases, our ability to engage in certain business combinations with significant shareholders.  In addition, we have adopted a shareholder rights plan, which provides, among other things, that when specified events occur, our shareholders will be entitled to purchase from us shares of junior preferred stock.  The shareholder rights plan will expire on April 9, 2015. The preferred stock purchase rights are triggered ten days after the date of a public announcement that a person or group acting in concert has acquired, or obtained the right to acquire, beneficial ownership of 20% or more of our outstanding common stock.  The preferred stock purchase rights would cause dilution to a person or group that attempts to acquire the Company on terms that do not satisfy the requirements of a qualifying offer under the shareholder rights plan or are otherwise not approved by our Board of Directors.

These provisions, either alone or in combination with each other, give our current directors and executive officers a substantial ability to influence the outcome of a proposed acquisition of the Company.  These provisions would apply even if an acquisition or other significant corporate transaction was considered beneficial by some of our shareholders.  If a change in control or change in management is delayed or prevented by these provisions, the market price of our securities could decline.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

Our home office headquarters and warehouse facilities are located on approximately 90 acres of land owned by the Company in Lebanon, Tennessee.  We utilize approximately 250,000 square feet of office space for our home office headquarters and decorative fixtures warehouse.  We also lease our retail distribution center, which consists of approximately 370,000 square feet of warehouse facilities and an additional approximately 14,000 square feet of office and maintenance space.

In addition to the various corporate facilities, we have six owned properties for future development, a motel used for housing management trainees and for the general public, and six parcels of excess real property and improvements that we intend to dispose of.
In addition to the properties mentioned above, we own or lease the following store properties as of September 20, 2013:

State
 
Owned
   
Leased
 
State
 
Owned
   
Leased
 
Tennessee
   
37
     
14
 
Oklahoma
   
6
     
2
 
Florida
   
40
     
18
 
Maryland
   
3
     
4
 
Texas
   
31
     
16
 
New Jersey
   
2
     
4
 
Georgia
   
30
     
14
 
Wisconsin
   
5
     
0
 
North Carolina
   
24
     
14
 
Colorado
   
3
     
1
 
Kentucky
   
22
     
13
 
Kansas
   
3
     
1
 
Ohio
   
22
     
9
 
Massachusetts
   
0
     
4
 
Virginia
   
19
     
12
 
New Mexico
   
3
     
1
 
Alabama
   
20
     
9
 
Utah
   
4
     
0
 
Indiana
   
22
     
7
 
Iowa
   
3
     
0
 
South Carolina
   
14
     
12
 
Connecticut
   
1
     
1
 
Pennsylvania
   
9
     
14
 
Montana
   
2
     
0
 
Illinois
   
20
     
2
 
Nebraska
   
1
     
1
 
Missouri
   
14
     
3
 
Delaware
   
0
     
1
 
Michigan
   
13
     
3
 
Idaho
   
1
     
0
 
Arizona
   
2
     
11
 
Maine
   
0
     
1
 
Arkansas
   
5
     
6
 
Minnesota
   
1
     
0
 
Mississippi
   
8
     
3
 
New Hampshire
   
1
     
0
 
Louisiana
   
8
     
2
 
North Dakota
   
1
     
0
 
West Virginia
   
3
     
7
 
Rhode Island
   
0
     
1
 
New York
   
8
     
1
 
South Dakota
   
1
      
0
 
 
               
Total
   
412
       
212
 

We believe that our properties are suitable, adequate, well-maintained and sufficient for the operations contemplated.  See “Operations" and "Store Development" in Item I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information on our properties.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

On January 31, 2013, Kraft Foods Group Brands, LLC (“Kraft”) filed suit against the Company and the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary CBOCS Properties, Inc. (“CBOCS”) in the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division (the “District Court”), in the case styled Kraft Foods Group Brands, LLC v. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., CBOCS Properties, Inc., and John Does 1-10, Docket No. 1:13-cv-00780, seeking declaratory and injunctive relief.  Kraft’s complaint alleges that Kraft markets cheese in grocery stores under the trademark CRACKER BARREL (the “Kraft Mark”). Citing the Company’s announcement of its entry into a multi-year licensing agreement with John Morrell Food Group, Kraft is seeking a declaratory judgment based upon the allegation that CBOCS’s use and/or licensing use of CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORES (the “CBOCS Mark”) in connection with goods sold in retail food channels is likely to cause confusion among consumers regarding the source or sponsorship of those products. Further, Kraft is seeking a declaratory judgment based upon the allegation that CBOCS’s use or licensing of the CBOCS Mark constitutes unfair competition under federal and Illinois law.  In addition to declaratory relief, Kraft is seeking an injunction prohibiting CBOCS from using or licensing the CBOCS Mark through any trade channels other than the Company’s stores or website.  An evidentiary hearing was held on Kraft’s preliminary injunction motion in June 2013.  The District Court granted Kraft’s motion for preliminary injunction and prohibited the use of the CBOCS Mark in connection with prospective sales or distribution of branded food products in certain retail locations.  The District Court did not restrict use of the CBOCS Mark in distribution channels in which the Company and/or CBOCS has sold and promoted products previously.  The Company and CBOCS disagree with and are appealing the District Court’s ruling, and we continue to believe that there are numerous meritorious defenses to Kraft’s claims and intend to defend this lawsuit vigorously.
In addition to the matter described above, the Company and its subsidiaries are party to various other legal and regulatory proceedings and claims incidental to their business in the ordinary course.  In the opinion of management, based upon information currently available, the ultimate liability with respect to these other proceedings and claims will not materially affect the Company’s consolidated results of operations or financial position.

Pursuant to Instruction 3 to Item 401(b) of Regulation S‑K and General Instruction G(3) to Form 10‑K, the following information is included in Part I of this Form 10‑K.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The following table sets forth certain information concerning our executive officers:

Name
Age
Position with the Company
 
 
 
Sandra B. Cochran
55
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
Lawrence E. Hyatt
58
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
Douglas E. Barber
56
Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer
 
 
 
Christopher A. Ciavarra
42
Senior Vice President, Marketing
 
 
 
Laura A. Daily
49
Senior Vice President, Retail
 
 
 
Nicholas V. Flanagan
47
Senior Vice President, Operations
 
 
 
Edward A. Greene
58
Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives
 
 
 
P. Douglas Couvillion
49
Vice President, Corporate Controller and Principal Accounting Officer
 
 
 
Michael J. Zylstra
47
Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

The following information summarizes the business experience of each of our executive officers for at least the past five years:

Ms. Cochran has been employed with us in various capacities since 2009.  Ms. Cochran served as our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from April 2009 to November 2010, and as President and Chief Operating Officer from November 2010 until September 2011 when she assumed her current position.  In September 2011, she also became a member of our Board of Directors.  Prior to March 2009, she was the Chief Executive Officer of Books-A-Million, Inc., having assumed that role in 2004 after serving in various capacities there since 1992.  Ms. Cochran has 20 years of experience in the retail industry and four years of experience in the restaurant industry.

Mr. Hyatt has been employed with us as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since January 2011.  He has over 20 years of experience as Chief Financial Officer with various organizations.  Prior to January 2011, he was the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of O’Charley’s Inc., having assumed that role in 2004.  He also served as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of O’Charley’s Inc. from February 2009 through June 2009.  Mr. Hyatt’s previous positions include serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Cole National Corporation, a specialty retailer; as Chief Financial and Restructuring Officer of PSINet, Inc., an internet service provider; as Chief Financial Officer of HMS Host Corporation, a subsidiary of Autogrill S.p.A.; and as Chief Financial Officer of Sodexho Marriott Services, Inc., a food services and facilities management company, and its predecessor company. Mr. Hyatt has 11 years of experience in the restaurant industry and five years of experience in the retail industry.

Mr. Barber has been employed with us since 2003.  From 2003 to 2010, he served in various capacities, including Senior Vice President of Restaurant Operations and Chief Operating Officer.  He assumed his current position in 2010.  Prior to 2003, he was with Metromedia Family Steakhouse, a division of Metromedia Restaurant Group, Inc., in various capacities since 1979 where he served as President from 1995 to 2003.  Mr. Barber has 34 years of experience in the restaurant industry.  In August 2013, Mr. Barber announced his retirement effective in January 2014.

Mr. Ciavarra has been employed with us since 2008.  He assumed his current position in 2010.  Prior to 2008, he was the Director of Marketing for Aramark Corporation from 2005 to 2008.  In addition, he was a consultant for us from 2001 to 2005.  Mr. Ciavarra has over 13 years of experience in the restaurant industry and over eight years of experience in the retail industry.

Ms. Daily has been employed with us as Senior Vice President of Retail since May 2012.  Prior to May 2012, she served as Vice President for Ballard Designs, an Internet and catalog home furnishings retailer that is part of HSN, Inc., where she was in charge of all merchandising and trends for the company.  Ms. Daily’s previous positions prior to joining Ballard Designs in 1997 included merchandising, planning and store operations positions with Spiegel, Inc. and Carson Pirie Scott.  She has over 20 years of experience as a merchant with a number of retail organizations.

Mr. Flanagan has been employed with us since 2004.  From 2004 to 2010, he served in various capacities including Vice President of Restaurant Operations.  He assumed his current position in November 2010.  Prior to 2004, he was a 15-year veteran of S&A Restaurant Corporation where he served in several leadership roles.  Mr. Flanagan has over 24 years of experience in the restaurant industry.

Mr. Greene has been employed with us in his current capacity since October 2005. From August 1996 to October 2005, he worked for Restaurant Services, Inc., the independent purchasing cooperative which provided supply chain management services for Burger King Corporation and its franchisees, serving most recently as its Vice President, Food and Packaging Purchasing.  Mr. Greene began his career with The Pillsbury Company and has over 35 years of combined experience in the restaurant and food processing industries.

Mr. Couvillion has been employed with us since 2001 in various capacities including Vice President of Finance.  He assumed his current position in July 2011.  Prior to 2001, he was with Landry's Restaurants, Inc. since 1993 where he served in various capacities including Controller and Director of Finance.  Mr. Couvillion began his career in public accounting with Touche Ross & Co. and has 19 years of experience in the restaurant industry and 12 years of experience in the retail industry.

Mr. Zylstra has been employed with us in various capacities since 1992.  He assumed his present position in  January 2012 after serving as Vice President, Associate General Counsel and Assistant Corporate Secretary since 1999.  Mr. Zylstra has 22 years of experience in the restaurant and retail industry, all with Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.

PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market (“Nasdaq”) under the symbol “CBRL.”  There were 8,851 shareholders of record as of September 20, 2013.

The following table indicates the high and low sales prices of our common stock, as reported by Nasdaq, and dividends declared and paid for the quarters indicated.

 
Fiscal Year 2013
Fiscal Year 2012
 
Prices
Dividends
Dividends
Prices
Dividends
Dividends
     
High
     
Low
      Declared      
Paid
      
High
     
Low
    Declared      
Paid
First
 
$
69.30
   
$
62.06
   
$
0.50
   
$
0.40
   
$
45.80
   
$
37.31
   
$
0.25
   
$
0.22
 
Second
   
65.94
     
60.07
     
0.50
     
0.50
     
53.77
     
41.08
     
0.25
     
0.25
 
Third
   
84.41
     
64.53
     
0.50
     
0.50
     
59.90
     
52.02
     
0.65
     
0.25
 
Fourth
   
102.95
     
83.02
     
0.75
     
0.50
     
64.33
     
56.26
     
--
     
0.25
 
See Note 5 to Consolidated Financial Statements with respect to dividend restrictions.

See the table labeled “Equity Compensation Plan Information” to be contained in the 2013 Proxy Statement, incorporated by reference in Part III, Item 12 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Part III, Item 12 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K is incorporated herein by this reference.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities

There were no equity securities sold by the Company during the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K that were not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

On September 19, 2012, our Board of Directors approved the repurchase of up to $100,000 of our common stock.  We did not repurchase any of our common stock in the fourth quarter ended August 2, 2013.  On September 25, 2013, our Board of Directors approved the repurchase of up to $50,000 of our common stock, with such authorization to expire on September 25, 2014, to the extent it remains unused.

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 
 
(Dollars in thousands except percentages and share data)
 
 
 
For each of the fiscal years ended
 
 
 
August 2,
2013(a)
   
August 3,
2012(b)
   
July 29,
2011(c)
   
July 30,
2010(d)
   
July 31,
2009(e)(f)
 
Selected Income Statement Data:
 
   
   
   
   
 
Total revenue
 
$
2,644,630
   
$
2,580,195
   
$
2,434,435
   
$
2,404,515
   
$
2,367,285
 
Income from continuing operations
   
117,265
     
103,081
     
85,208
     
85,258
     
65,957
 
Net income
   
117,265
     
103,081
     
85,208
     
85,258
     
65,926
 
Net income and income from continuing operations per share:
                                       
Basic
   
4.95
     
4.47
     
3.70
     
3.71
     
2.94
 
Diluted
   
4.90
     
4.40
     
3.61
     
3.62
     
2.89
 
Dividends declared per share
   
2.25
     
1.15
     
0.88
     
0.80
     
0.80
 
Dividends paid per share
   
1.90
     
0.97
     
0.86
     
0.80
     
0.78
 
 
                                       
As Percent of Total Revenue:
                                       
Cost of goods sold
   
32.3
%
   
32.1
%
   
31.7
%
   
31.0
%
   
32.3
%
Labor and related expenses
   
36.5
     
36.8
     
37.1
     
37.8
     
38.7
 
Other store operating expenses
   
18.2
     
18.0
     
18.6
     
18.2
     
17.8
 
Store operating income
   
13.0
     
13.1
     
12.6
     
13.0
     
11.2
 
General and administrative expenses
   
5.4
     
5.7
     
5.7
     
6.1
     
5.1
 
Impairment and store dispositions, net
   
--
     
--
     
--
     
0.1
     
0.1
 
Operating income
   
7.6
     
7.4
     
6.9
     
6.8
     
6.0
 
Income before income taxes
   
6.3
     
5.7
     
4.8
     
4.8
     
3.8
 
 
                                       
Selected Balance Sheet Data:
                                       
Working capital (deficit)
 
$
(13,873
)
 
$
18,249
   
$
(21,188
)
 
$
(73,289
)
 
$
(66,637
)
Total assets
   
1,388,306
     
1,418,992
     
1,310,884
     
1,292,067
     
1,245,181
 
Current interest rate swap liability
   
--
     
20,215
     
--
     
--
     
--
 
Long-term debt
   
400,000
     
525,036
     
550,143
     
573,744
     
638,040
 
Long-term interest rate swap liability
   
11,644
     
14,166
     
51,604
     
66,281
     
61,232
 
Other long-term obligations
   
120,073
     
114,897
     
105,661
     
93,822
     
89,670
 
Shareholders’ equity
   
484,026
     
382,675
     
268,034
     
191,617
     
135,622
 
 
Selected Cash Flow Data:
 
   
   
   
   
 
Purchase of property and equipment, net
 
$
73,961
   
$
80,170
   
$
77,686
   
$
69,891
   
$
67,842
 
Share repurchases
   
3,570
     
14,923
     
33,563
     
62,487
     
--
 
 
Selected Other Data:
 
   
   
   
   
 
Common shares outstanding at end of year
   
23,795,327
     
23,473,024
     
22,840,974
     
22,732,781
     
22,722,685
 
Stores open at end of year
   
624
     
616
     
603
     
593
     
588
 
 
                                       
Average Unit Volumes(g):
                                       
Restaurant
 
$
3,390
   
$
3,369
   
$
3,234
   
$
3,226
   
$
3,209
 
Retail
   
869
     
863
     
837
     
832
     
841
 
 
                                       
Comparable Store Sales(h):
                                       
Period to period increase (decrease) in comparable store sales:
                                       
Restaurant
   
3.1
%
   
2.2
%
   
0.2
%
   
0.8
%
   
(1.7
)%
Retail
   
2.9
     
1.6
     
0.7
     
(0.9
)
   
(5.9
)
Memo: Number of stores in comparable base
   
596
     
591
     
583
     
569
     
550
 
(a) We incurred $4,111 in costs related to the November 2012 proxy contest, which are included in general and administrative expenses.
(b) Fiscal 2012 consisted of 53 weeks while all other periods presented consisted of 52 weeks.  The estimated impact of the additional week was to increase consolidated fiscal 2012 results as follows:  total revenue, $51,059; store operating income, 0.2% of total revenue ($11,093); operating income, 0.2% of total revenue ($9,723); net income, 0.2% of total revenue ($6,280); and diluted net income per share, $0.27.   As part of our restructuring of our field organization in April 2012, we incurred severance charges of $1,660, which are included in general and administrative expenses.  We also incurred $5,203 in costs related to the December 2011 proxy contest, which are also included in general and administrative expenses.
(c)
Includes impairment charges of $3,219 before taxes and pre-tax gains on store dispositions of $4,109.  Our debt refinancing in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011 resulted in additional interest expense of $5,136 related to transaction fees and the write-off of deferred financing costs.  During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, as part of our cost reduction and organization streamlining initiative, we incurred severance charges of $1,768, which are included in general and administrative expenses.  We also incurred $404 in costs related to the December 2011 proxy contest, which are also included in general and administrative expenses.
(d) Includes impairment charges of $2,672 before taxes.
(e) Includes impairment charges of $2,088 before taxes.  We completed sale-leaseback transactions involving 15 of our stores and our retail distribution center in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009 (see Note 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements).  Net proceeds from the sale-leaseback transactions together with excess cash flow from operations were used to pay down $142,759 of long-term debt.
(f) Certain expenses and proceeds related to the divestiture of Logan’s Roadhouse, Inc. are reported in discontinued operations in fiscal 2009.
(g) Average unit volumes include sales of all stores.  Fiscal 2012 includes a 53rd week while all other periods presented consist of 52 weeks.
(h) Comparable store sales consist of sales of stores open at least six full quarters at the beginning of the year; and are measured on comparable calendar weeks.
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) provides information which management believes is relevant to an assessment and understanding of our consolidated results of operations and financial condition.  MD&A should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto.  Readers also should carefully review the information presented under the section entitled “Risk Factors” and other cautionary statements in this report.  All dollar amounts (other than per share amounts) reported or discussed in this MD&A are shown in thousands.  References in MD&A to a year or quarter are to our fiscal year or quarter unless expressly noted or the context clearly indicates otherwise.
This overview summarizes the MD&A, which includes the following sections:
 
· Executive Overview – a general description of our business, the restaurant and retail industries, our key performance indicators and the Company’s performance in 2013.
· Results of Operations – an analysis of our consolidated statements of income for the three years presented in our Consolidated Financial Statements.
· Liquidity and Capital Resources – an analysis of our primary sources of liquidity, capital expenditures and material commitments.
· Critical Accounting Estimates – a discussion of accounting policies that require critical judgments and estimates.

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW
 
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (the “Company,” “our” or “we”) is a publicly traded (Nasdaq: CBRL) company that, through its operations and those of certain subsidiaries, is engaged in the operation and development of the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® (“Cracker Barrel”) concept.  Each Cracker Barrel store consists of a restaurant with a gift shop.  The restaurants serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.  The gift shop area offers a variety of decorative and functional items specializing in rocking chairs, holiday gifts, toys, apparel and foods.  As of September 20, 2013, the Company operated 624 Cracker Barrel stores located in 42 states.
 
Restaurant and Retail Industries
 
Our stores operate in both the restaurant and retail industries in the United States.  The restaurant and retail industries are highly competitive with respect to quality, variety and price of the food products and retail merchandise offered.  We compete with a significant number of national and regional restaurant and retail chains.  Additionally, there are many segments within the restaurant industry, such as family dining, casual dining, fast casual and quick service, which often overlap and provide competition for widely diverse restaurant concepts.  We operate in the full-service segment of the restaurant industry.  Competition also exists in securing prime real estate locations for new stores, in hiring qualified employees, in advertising, in the attractiveness of facilities and with competitors having similar menu offerings or convenience.  The restaurant and retail industries are often affected by changes in consumer taste and preference; national, regional or local economic conditions; demographic trends; traffic patterns; the type, number and location of competing restaurants and retailers; and consumers’ discretionary purchasing power.
 
Additionally, economic, seasonal and weather conditions affect the restaurant and retail industries.  Adverse economic conditions and unemployment rates affect consumer discretionary income and dining and shopping habits.  Historically, interstate tourist traffic and the propensity to dine out have been much higher during the summer months, thereby contributing to higher profits in our fourth quarter.  Retail sales, which are made substantially to our restaurant guests, are strongest in the second quarter, which includes the Christmas holiday shopping season.  Severe weather also affects restaurant and retail sales adversely from time to time.
 
Key Performance Indicators
 
Management uses a number of key performance measures to evaluate our operational and financial performance, including the following:
 
Comparable store restaurant sales and restaurant guest traffic consist of sales and calculated number of guests, respectively, of stores open at least six full quarters at the beginning of the year and are measured on comparable calendar weeks.  This measure excludes the impact of new store openings.
 
Percentage of retail sales to total sales indicates the relative proportion of spending by guests on retail product at our stores and helps identify overall effectiveness of our retail operations.  Management uses this measure to analyze a store’s ability to convert restaurant traffic into retail sales since we believe that the substantial majority of our retail customers are also guests in our restaurants.
 
Average check per guest is an indicator which management uses to analyze the dollars spent per guest in our stores on restaurant purchases.  This measure aids management in identifying trends in guest preferences as well as the effectiveness of menu price increases and other menu changes.
Store operating margins are defined as total revenue less cost of goods sold, labor and other related expenses and other store operating expenses, all as a percentage of total revenue.  Management uses this indicator as a primary measure of operating profitability.
 
Company Performance in 2013
 
Management believes that the Cracker Barrel brand remains one of the strongest and most differentiated brands in the restaurant industry.  During 2013, we focused on six key business priorities which were based on our previously announced long-term strategy to Enhance the Core Business, Expand the Footprint of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store and Extend the Brand beyond the four walls of our stores.  We believe the successful implementation of these six priorities resulted in revenue growth during the year, positive comparable store restaurant and retail sales for the year with both comparable store traffic and sales out-performing the Knapp-Track™ Index for the year and higher profit as compared to the prior year.  
 
Our six priorities for 2013 were as follows:
 
1) Refresh select menu categories that will reinforce our value and provide healthier options to our guests.  Having analyzed our marketplace, guests’ feedback and brand positioning, we focused our menu initiatives on satisfying our guests’ needs for affordable options, healthier items and customizable choices.  As part of our fall and holiday promotions, we introduced new sides to meet guests’ preferences for lighter and healthier options to customize their meals.  These sides later transitioned to our core menu.  During the spring, we reinforced the affordability of our menu by refreshing and highlighting our Country Dinner Plates, which include over 10 entrée choices at a $7.69 price point.  Seasonal promotions included limited time offerings of additional entrée choices.  Throughout the year, we tested a new category for our menu, Wholesome Fixin’s®.  The category will provide flavorful and fresh meals with under 600 calories.  We introduced Wholesome Fixin’s in the first quarter of 2014.

2) Grow retail sales with unique merchandise. Further defining the distinctive Cracker Barrel experience, we focused on merchandising our stores with unique and nostalgic items.  We developed collections with broad generational appeal and unique product assortments, such as our horse-theme merchandise and our American Pride assortment.  One of our strongest categories, women’s apparel and accessories, continued to see growth throughout the year.

3) Build on the successful “Handcrafted by Cracker Barrel” advertising campaign. During the first quarter of 2013, we refreshed our billboards to our Handcrafted by Cracker Barrel advertising theme.  Many of the billboards highlight our made-from-scratch cooking with slogans like “Homemade Doesn’t Cost Extra” and “Fresh Meals. Friendly Prices.” Other billboards highlighted our brand’s value and affordability.  Of our 1,600 billboards, approximately 300 display sharp price-point messaging around our $5.99 Daily Lunch Specials or $7.69 Country Dinner Plates.  In addition, we continued with our Handcrafted by Cracker Barrel media advertising and maintained the approach that we adopted in 2012, using national cable to drive brand awareness and spot radio to deliver product news during our busy holiday and summer seasons.  We updated the radio spots with current menu and product offerings and ran new TV commercials during the summer campaign.

4)
Invest in and leverage technology and equipment to support operations and reduce costs. In our ongoing effort to improve operations, we focused on initiatives to lower expenses and improve the guest experience. During the first quarter of 2013, we increased productivity in our stores with improved hourly labor scheduling that not only reduced costs but we believe allowed our store managers to spend more time interacting with guests. During the second quarter of 2013, we implemented a new merchandise planning system that provides greater visibility to manage the products in our retail stores. During the third quarter of 2013, we rolled out the second phase of our production planning tool for store managers, which helped further reduce food waste. Also, during the third and fourth quarters of 2013, we invested in new equipment at our stores to better hold and prepare fresh ingredients, an important component for our menu expansion with Wholesome Fixin’s®.

5) Continued focus on shareholder return.  We returned capital to our shareholders directly through quarterly dividend payments.  During the fourth quarter of 2013, we declared a dividend increase to $0.75 which was paid in the first quarter of 2014.  This increase marked the third increase since November 2011 and represented a tripling of our quarterly dividend over that time period.  During 2013, we repaid $125,000 in long term debt, opened eight new stores, and reinvested approximately $74,000 in the Company through capital expenditures.

6) Expand the brand through e-commerce and licensing. Throughout the year, we also engaged with our guests through multiple website and digital promotions.  Also, during the year, we announced a multi-year licensing agreement with John Morrell Food Group, a subsidiary of Smithfield Foods.  We look forward to the future potential of this partnership.  See “Item 3. Legal Proceedings” of Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information related to a lawsuit filed against the Company regarding this initiative.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
The following table highlights operating results over the past three years:

 
 
   
Period to Period
 
 
 
Relationship to Total Revenue
   
Increase (Decrease)
 
 
 
2013
     
2012*
   
2011
   
2013
vs 2012
   
2012
vs 2011
 
Total revenue
   
100.0
%
   
100.0
%
   
100.0
%
   
3
%
   
6
%
Cost of goods sold
   
32.3
     
32.1
     
31.7
     
3
     
7
 
Gross profit
   
67.7
     
67.9
     
68.3
     
2
     
5
 
Labor and other related expenses
   
36.5
     
36.8
     
37.1
     
1
     
5
 
Other store operating expenses
   
18.2
     
18.0
     
18.6
     
4
     
3
 
Store operating income
   
13.0
     
13.1
     
12.6
     
2
     
10
 
General and administrative
   
5.4
     
5.7
     
5.7
     
(2
)
   
5
 
Impairment and store dispositions, net
   
--
     
--
     
--
     
--
     
(100
)
Operating income
   
7.6
     
7.4
     
6.9
     
6
     
14
 
Interest expense
   
1.3
     
1.7
     
2.1
     
(20
)
   
(13
)
Income before income taxes
   
6.3
     
5.7
     
4.8
     
13
     
26
 
Provision for income taxes
   
1.9
     
1.7
     
1.3
     
12
     
42
 
Net income
   
4.4
     
4.0
     
3.5
     
14
     
21
 
*2012 consists of 53 weeks while the other periods presented consist of 52 weeks.

Total Revenue
 
The following table highlights the key components of revenue for the past three years:

 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Revenue in dollars: (1)
 
   
   
 
Restaurant
 
$
2,104,768
   
$
2,054,127
   
$
1,934,049
 
Retail
   
539,862
     
526,068
     
500,386
 
Total revenue
 
$
2,644,630
   
$
2,580,195
   
$
2,434,435
 
Total revenue percentage increase(1)
   
2.5
%
   
6.0
%
   
1.2
%
Total revenue by percentage relationships:
                       
Restaurant
   
79.6
%
   
79.6
%
   
79.4
%
Retail
   
20.4
%
   
20.4
%
   
20.6
%
Comparable number of stores
   
596
     
591
     
583
 
Comparable store averages per store: (2)
                       
Restaurant
 
$
3,409
   
$
3,375
   
$
3,238
 
Retail
   
871
     
861
     
833
 
Total
 
$
4,280
   
$
4,236
   
$
4,071
 
Restaurant average weekly sales (3)
 
$
65.2
   
$
63.6
   
$
62.2
 
Retail average weekly sales (3)
   
16.7
     
16.3
     
16.1
 
(1) 2012 consists of 53 weeks while the other periods presented consist of 52 weeks.
(2) 2012 is calculated on a 53-week basis while the other periods are calculated on a 52-week basis.
(3) Average weekly sales are calculated by dividing net sales by operating weeks and include all stores.
Total revenue benefited from the opening of ­­­8, 13 and 11 stores in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, partially offset by the closing of one store in 2011.  Total revenue in 2012 also benefited from the additional week in 2012, which resulted in an increase in revenues of $51,059.

The following table highlights comparable store sales* results over the past two years:

 
 
Period to Period Increase
 
 
 
2013 vs 2012
   
2012 vs 2011
 
 
 
(596 Stores)
   
(591 Stores)
 
Restaurant
   
3.1
%
   
2.2
%
Retail
   
2.9
     
1.6
 
Restaurant & Retail
   
3.0
     
2.1
 
*Comparable store sales consist of sales of stores open at least six full quarters at the beginning of the year and are measured on comparable calendar weeks.
 
Our comparable store restaurant sales increased from 2012 to 2013 resulting from a higher average check of 2.5%, including a 2.2% average menu price increase, and an increase in guest traffic of 0.6%.  Our comparable store restaurant sales increased from 2011 to 2012 resulting from a higher average check of 2.4%, including a 2.2% average menu price increase, partially offset by a decrease in guest traffic of 0.2%.
 
We believe that the comparable store retail sales increase from 2012 to 2013 resulted primarily from strong performance in certain retail merchandise categories and the increase in guest traffic.  We believe that the comparable store retail sales increase from 2011 to 2012 resulted from a more appealing retail merchandise selection than in the prior year and the growth of apparel, accessories and proprietary product lines.
 
Cost of Goods Sold
 
The following table highlights the components of cost of goods sold in dollar amounts for the past three years:

 
 
2013
     
2012
*
   
2011
 
Cost of Goods Sold:
 
                 
Restaurant
 
$
571,825
   
$
553,478
   
$
511,728
 
Retail
   
282,859
     
274,006
     
260,743
 
Total Cost of Goods Sold
 
$
854,684
   
$
827,484
   
$
772,471
 
*2012 consists of 53 weeks while all other periods presented consist of 52 weeks.

The following table highlights restaurant cost of goods sold as a percentage of restaurant revenue for the past three years:

 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Restaurant Cost of Goods Sold
   
27.2
%
   
26.9
%
   
26.5
%

The increase from 2012 to 2013 was primarily the result of food commodity inflation of 3.4% partially offset by our menu price increase referenced above and a reduction in food waste.  The reduction in food waste from 2012 to 2013 accounted for a 0.2% decrease in restaurant cost of goods sold as a percentage of restaurant revenue.  The increase from 2011 to 2012 was primarily the result of food commodity inflation of 4.5% partially offset by our menu price increase referenced above.

We presently expect the rate of commodity inflation to be approximately 2% in 2014 as compared to 2013.  We expect to offset the effects of food commodity inflation through a combination of menu price increases, supply contracts and other cost reduction initiatives.

The following table highlights retail cost of goods sold as a percentage of retail revenue for the past three years:
 
 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Retail Cost of Goods Sold
   
52.4
%
   
52.1
%
   
52.1
%

The increase in retail cost of goods sold as a percentage of retail revenue in 2013 as compared to 2012 resulted from lower initial markup on certain retail merchandise partially offset by lower freight and shrinkage.

 
 
2012 to 2013
Increase (Decrease) as a Percentage of Total Revenue
 
Lower initial markup on certain merchandise
   
0.6
%
Freight
   
(0.2
%)
Retail inventory shrinkage
   
(0.1
%)

Retail cost of goods sold as a percentage of retail revenue remained flat in 2012 as compared to 2011.

Restructurings
 
In April 2012, we restructured and streamlined our field organization to better align our restaurant and retail operations under central leadership.  The restructuring of the field organization and related changes in our headquarters in Lebanon, Tennessee, resulted in the elimination of approximately 20 positions.  As a result, we incurred severance charges of $1,660.  In July 2011, we implemented a cost reduction and organization streamlining initiative, which resulted in the elimination of approximately 60 management and staff positions.  Most of the employees affected worked in our headquarters and the restructuring did not affect any store positions.  As a result, in the fourth quarter of 2011, we incurred severance charges of $1,768. Severance charges are recorded in general and administrative expenses (see “General and Administrative Expenses” below).
 
Labor and Related Expenses

Labor and other related expenses include all direct and indirect labor and related costs incurred in store operations.  Labor and other related expenses as a percentage of total revenue were 36.5%, 36.8% and 37.1% in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

The year-to-year percentage change from 2012 to 2013 resulted from the following:

 
 
2012 to 2013
(Decrease) Increase as a Percentage of Total Revenue
 
Store hourly labor
   
(0.5
%)
Store bonus expense
   
0.2
%

The decrease in store hourly labor costs as a percentage of total revenue from 2012 to 2013 resulted from menu price increases being higher than wage inflation and improved productivity.  Higher store bonus expense in 2013 as compared to 2012 reflected better performance against financial objectives in 2013 as compared to the prior year.
 
The year-to-year percentage change from 2011 to 2012 resulted from the following:

 
 
2011 to 2012
(Decrease) Increase as a Percentage of Total Revenue
 
Store hourly labor
   
(0.3
%)
Health care costs
   
(0.2
%)
Store bonus expense
   
0.2
%

The decrease in store hourly labor costs as a percentage of total revenue from 2011 to 2012 resulted from improved productivity due to our enhanced labor management system and menu price increases being higher than wage inflation.
The decrease in our health care costs from 2011 to 2012 resulted from a change in our group policy.  Employee health care expenses in the calendar 2011 plan year were lower due to improvements in claims experience.  As a result of these improvements, we negotiated a retrospectively rated group policy during the first quarter of 2012.  This policy is retroactive to January 1, 2011 and provides for a reimbursement of health insurance premiums based on actual claims experience through the end of calendar year.  The terms of this policy resulted in us receiving approximately $5,200 in net reimbursement for these health insurance premiums during 2012, which reduced our health care costs.  This reduction was partially offset by higher claims experience in 2012.
 
Higher store bonus expense in 2012 as compared to 2011 reflected better performance against financial objectives in 2012 as compared to the prior year.

Other Store Operating Expenses
 
Other store operating expenses include all store-level operating costs, the major components of which are utilities, operating supplies, repairs and maintenance, depreciation and amortization, advertising, rent, credit card fees, real and personal property taxes and general insurance.  Other store operating expenses as a percentage of total revenue were 18.2%, 18.0% and 18.6% in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
 
The year-to-year percentage change from 2012 to 2013 resulted from the following:
 
 
 
2012 to 2013
Increase (Decrease) as a Percentage of Total Revenue
 
Advertising
   
0.1
%
Maintenance
   
0.1
%
Litigation settlement received in 2012
   
0.1
%
Utilities
   
(0.1
%)

The increase in advertising expense from 2012 to 2013 resulted primarily from higher media spending.   Higher maintenance expenses resulted primarily from planned increases in nationally managed repair and preventative maintenance programs.  Lower utilities expense resulted primarily from lower electricity costs.

The year-to-year percentage change from 2011 to 2012 resulted primarily from the following:
 
 
 
2011 to 2012
(Decrease) Increase as a Percentage of Total Revenue
 
Utilities
   
(0.2
%)
Litigation settlement received in 2012
   
(0.1
%)
Credit card fees
   
(0.1
%)
Supplies
   
(0.1
%)
Advertising
   
0.2
%

The decrease in utilities expense from 2011 to 2012 resulted primarily from lower natural gas costs.

In the first quarter of 2012, we received proceeds from a litigation settlement and recorded the proceeds as a gain in other store operating expenses since the settlement related to a matter previously recorded in other store operating expenses.   Because we believed this settlement represented a gain contingency, we did not record the gain until the settlement amount and timing were assured.

The decrease in credit card fees from 2011 to 2012 resulted from a reduction in debit card fee rates due to a change in Federal law governing such fees.  We believe that the decrease in supplies expense as a percentage of total revenue from 2011 to 2012 resulted primarily from our efforts to control this expense.

The increase in advertising expense from 2011 to 2012 resulted from our change in advertising strategy during 2012 in which we spent more on television advertising than in the prior year as a result of our entry into the national cable market in 2012.

General and Administrative Expenses
 
General and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenue were 5.4%, 5.7% and 5.7% in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
 
The year-to-year percentage change from 2012 to 2013 resulted from the following:
 
 
 
2012 to 2013
(Decrease) as a Percentage of Total Revenue
 
Payroll and related expenses
   
(0.2
%)
Manager conference expense
   
(0.1
%)

Lower payroll and related expenses in 2013 as compared to 2012 resulted primarily from fewer store managers in training due to lower turnover and our opening fewer stores in 2013 as compared to 2012.  The decrease in general and administrative expenses in 2013 as compared to 2012 also resulted from the non-recurrence of expenses associated with a biannual manager conference which was held in the first quarter of 2012.

General and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenue remained flat at 5.7% in 2012 as compared to 2011 as a result of the following offsetting variances:

 
 
2011 to 2012
(Decrease) Increase as a Percentage of Total Revenue
 
Payroll and related expenses
   
(0.5
%)
Incentive compensation
   
0.3
%
Expenses related to December 2011 proxy contest
   
0.2
%

Lower payroll and related expenses in 2012 as compared to 2011 resulted primarily from our organizational restructurings (see “Restructurings” above).  Higher incentive compensation in 2012 as compared to 2011 resulted primarily from better performance against financial objectives.

Impairment and Store Dispositions, Net
 
Impairment and store dispositions, net consisted of the following for the past three years:

 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Impairment
 
$
--
   
$
--
   
$
3,219
 
Gains on disposition of stores
   
--
     
--
     
(4,109
)
Store closing costs
   
--
     
--
     
265
 
Total
 
$
--
   
$
--
   
$
(625
)
 
In 2013 and 2012, we did not incur any impairment charges, gains on disposition of stores or store closing costs.  In 2011, we recorded impairment charges of $1,044 and $2,175, respectively, for office space classified as property held for sale and a leased store.  The leased store was impaired because of declining operating performance and resulting negative cash flow projections.  During 2011, we sold two closed stores.  Additionally, one of our stores was acquired by the State of Florida for road expansion pursuant to eminent domain.  These transactions resulted in a net gain of $4,109.
Interest Expense
 
The following table highlights interest expense for the past three years:
 
 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Interest expense
 
$
35,742
   
$
44,687
   
$
51,490
 

The year-to-year decrease from 2012 to 2013 resulted primarily from lower debt outstanding and lower interest rates because of a reduction in our credit spread and the expiration of our seven-year interest rate swap on May 3, 2013, which had a fixed interest rate of 5.57% plus our credit spread.  We presently expect interest expense for 2014 to be approximately $16,000 to $18,000.
 
The year-to-year decrease from 2011 to 2012 resulted primarily from the non-recurrence of costs related to our debt refinancing in July 2011 and lower average debt outstanding.  As part of our debt refinancing in 2011, we incurred additional expenses of $5,136 in 2011 related to transaction fees and the write-off of deferred financing costs. The additional week in 2012 also increased interest expense by $811.
 
Provision for Income Taxes
 
The following table highlights the provision for income taxes as a percentage of income before income taxes (“effective tax rate”) for the past three years:

 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Effective tax rate
   
29.3
%
   
29.5
%
   
26.3
%

The decrease in our effective tax rate from 2012 to 2013 resulted primarily from the retroactive extension by Congress of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit through the end of calendar 2013 partially offset by the increase in pretax income.  The increase in our effective tax rate from 2011 to 2012 resulted primarily from a net increase in our liability for uncertain tax positions in 2012, a deferred tax benefit for a state rate change realized in 2011 but not in 2012 and the increase in pretax income.
 
We presently expect our effective tax rate for 2014 to be between 31% and 32% because of the expiration of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
The following table presents a summary of our cash flows for the last three years:

 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
$
208,499
   
$
219,822
   
$
138,212
 
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(73,406
)
   
(79,547
)
   
(69,489
)
Net cash used in financing activities
   
(165,337
)
   
(40,587
)
   
(64,149
)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
 
$
(30,244
)
 
$
99,688
   
$
4,574
 

Our primary sources of liquidity are cash generated from our operations and our borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facility.  Our internally generated cash, along with cash on hand at August 3, 2012, and proceeds from exercises of share-based compensation awards, were sufficient to finance all of our growth, dividend payments, working capital needs, share repurchases and other cash payment obligations in 2013.

We believe that cash at August 2, 2013, along with cash expected to be generated from our operating activities and the borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facility will be sufficient to finance our continuing operations, our continuing expansion plans, our share repurchase plans and our expected dividend payments for 2014.
Cash Generated from Operations

The decrease in net cash flow provided by operating activities from 2012 to 2013 reflected higher annual and long-term incentive bonus payments and related taxes made in 2013 as a result of the prior year’s performance and the timing of payments for income taxes partially offset by higher net income and the timing of payments for interest and accounts payable.  The increase in net cash flow provided by operating activities from 2011 to 2012 reflected lower annual bonus payments made in 2012 for the prior year’s performance, higher net income and the timing of payments for accounts payable and income taxes.
 
Capital Expenditures
 
The following table presents our capital expenditures (purchase of property and equipment), net of proceeds from insurance recoveries, for the last three years:

 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Capital expenditures, net of proceeds from insurance recoveries
 
$
73,961
   
$
80,170
   
$
77,686
 

Our capital expenditures consisted primarily of costs of new store locations and capital expenditures for maintenance programs. The decrease in capital expenditures from 2012 to 2013 resulted primarily from a decrease in the number of new store locations acquired and under construction as compared to the prior year partially offset by higher capital expenditures for operational initiatives and maintenance programs.  The increase in capital expenditures from 2011 to 2012 resulted primarily from an increase in the number of new store locations acquired and under construction as compared to the prior year partially offset by lower capital expenditures for maintenance programs.

We estimate that our capital expenditures during 2014 will be between $90,000 and $100,000. This estimate includes the acquisition of sites and construction costs of approximately seven or eight new stores that will open during 2014, as well as acquisition and construction costs for store locations to be opened in 2015. We also expect to increase capital expenditures for maintenance programs, technology and operational improvements. We intend to fund our capital expenditures with cash generated by operations and borrowings under our revolving credit facility, as necessary.
 
Proceeds from Sale of Property and Equipment
 
During 2011, we received net proceeds of $1,054 from the sale of two closed stores and $6,576 as a result of a condemnation award.
 
Borrowing Capacity and Debt Covenants

Our $750,000 credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) consists of a term loan (aggregate outstanding at August 2, 2013 and August 3, 2012 was $187,500 and $212,500, respectively) and a $500,000 revolving credit facility (“the Revolving Credit Facility”).
 
The following table highlights our borrowing capacity and outstanding borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility, our standby letters of credit and our borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility as of August 2, 2013:

 
 
August 2, 2013
 
Borrowing capacity under the Revolving Credit Facility
 
$
500,000
 
Less: Outstanding borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility
   
212,500
 
Less: Standby letters of credit*
   
28,971
 
Borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility
 
$
258,529
 
*Our standby letters of credit relate to securing reserved claims under workers’ compensation insurance and reduce our borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility.

We reduced our borrowings under our Credit Facility by $125,000 in 2013 and $25,000 in both 2012 and 2011 by making optional prepayments using excess cash generated from operations.  See “Material Commitments” below and Note 5 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on our long-term debt.
The Credit Facility contains customary financial covenants, which include maintenance of a maximum consolidated total leverage ratio and a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio.  We presently are and expect to remain in compliance with the Credit Facility’s financial covenants for the remaining term of the facility.
 
Dividends, Share Repurchases and Proceeds from the Exercise of Share-Based Compensation Awards
 
Our Credit Facility imposes restrictions on the amount of dividends we are permitted to pay. Prior to the June 3, 2013 amendment described below, if there was no default then existing and the total of our availability under our Revolving Credit Facility plus our cash and cash equivalents on hand was at least $100,000 (the “liquidity requirements”), we could declare and pay cash dividends on shares of our common stock if the aggregate amount of dividends paid during any fiscal year is less than 20% of Consolidated EBITDA from continuing operations (as defined in the Credit Facility) (the “20% limitation”) during the immediately preceding fiscal year.  In any event, as long as the liquidity requirements were met, dividends could be declared and paid in any fiscal year up to the amount of dividends permitted and paid in the preceding fiscal year without regard to the 20% limitation.
 
Effective June 3, 2013, we amended the Credit Facility to provide more flexibility with regard to the dividends we are permitted to pay.  Under the amended Credit Facility, if there is no default existing and the liquidity requirements are met, we may declare and pay cash dividends on shares of our common stock if the aggregate amount of dividends paid in any fiscal year is less than the sum of (1) the 20% limitation and (2) $100,000 (less the amount of any share repurchases during the current fiscal year), provided our consolidated total leverage ratio is 3.25 to 1.00 or less.  In any event, as long as the liquidity requirements are met, dividends may be declared and paid in any fiscal year up to the amount of dividends permitted and paid in the preceding fiscal year without regard to the 20% limitation.
 
During the first three quarters of 2013, we declared a quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share of our common stock.  Additionally, during the fourth quarter of 2013, we increased our quarterly dividend by 50% by declaring a dividend of $0.75 per share payable on August 5, 2013 to shareholders of record on July 19, 2013.  In the first quarter of 2014, we declared a dividend of $0.75 per share payable on November 5, 2013 to shareholders of record on October 18, 2013.
 
The following table highlights the dividends per share we paid for the last three years:

 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Dividends per share paid
 
$
1.90
   
$
0.97
   
$
0.86
 

Our current criteria for share repurchases are that they be accretive to expected net income per share and are within the limits imposed by our Credit Facility.  Subject to the limits imposed by the Credit Facility, in 2013 and 2012, we were authorized by our Board of Directors to repurchase shares at the discretion of management up to $100,000 and $65,000, respectively.  In 2011, we were authorized to repurchase shares to offset share dilution that resulted from the issuance of shares under our equity compensation plans up to $65,000.  Under the June 3, 2013 amendment of the Credit Facility, we may repurchase shares up to a maximum amount of $100,000 less the amount of dividends paid provided the liquidity requirements are met.  Additionally, we have been authorized by our Board of Directors to repurchase shares at the discretion of management up to $50,000 during 2014.

The following table highlights our share repurchases for the last three years:

 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Shares of common stock repurchased
   
44,300
     
265,538
     
676,600
 
Cost of shares repurchased
 
$
3,570
   
$
14,923
   
$
33,563
 

The following table highlights the proceeds received from the exercise of share-based compensation awards for the last three years:
 
 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Proceeds from exercise of share-based compensation awards
 
$
6,454
   
$
17,602
   
$
20,540
 

Working Capital

In the restaurant industry, substantially all sales are either for cash or third-party credit card.  Like many other restaurant companies, we are able to, and often do, operate with negative working capital.  Restaurant inventories purchased through our principal food distributor are on terms of net zero days, while other restaurant inventories purchased locally are generally financed through trade credit at terms of 30 days or less.  Because of our gift shop, which has a lower product turnover than the restaurant, we carry larger inventories than many other companies in the restaurant industry.  Retail inventories are generally financed  through trade credit at terms of 60 days or less.  These various trade terms are aided by rapid turnover of the restaurant inventory.  Employees generally are paid on weekly or semi-monthly schedules in arrears for hours worked except for bonuses that are paid either quarterly or annually in arrears.  Many other operating expenses have normal trade terms and certain expenses such as certain taxes and some benefits are deferred for longer periods of time.
 
The following table highlights our working capital:

 
 
2013
   
2012
   
2011
 
Working capital (deficit)
 
$
(13,873
)
 
$
18,249
   
$
(21,188
)

The change in working capital at August 2, 2013 compared to August 3, 2012 primarily reflected a decrease in cash due to optional debt payments and higher dividend payments in 2013.  The change in working capital at August 3, 2012 compared to July 29, 2011 primarily reflected cash generated from operations and proceeds received from share-based compensation exercises partially offset by the current portion of our interest rate swap liability, higher incentive compensation accruals based on better performance against financial objectives in 2012 and the timing of payments for estimated income taxes.
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
Other than various operating leases, which are disclosed more fully in “Material Commitments” below and Notes 2 and 10 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, we have no other material off-balance sheet arrangements.
 
Material Commitments

Our contractual cash obligations and commitments as of August 2, 2013, are summarized in the tables below:

 
 
 
   
Payments due by Years
 
Contractual Obligations (a)
 
Total
   
2014
     
2015-2016
     
2017-2018
   
After 2018
 
Term loan (b)
 
$
187,500
     
--
   
$
187,500
     
--
     
--
 
Revolving Credit Facility(b)
   
212,500
     
--
     
212,500
     
--
     
--
 
Operating leases (c)
   
766,444
   
$
59,075
     
89,346
   
$
81,040
   
$
536,983
 
Purchase obligations (d)
   
111,347
     
63,559
     
27,966
     
18,997
     
825
 
Other long-term obligations (e)
   
37,316
     
2,343
     
8,477
     
300
     
26,196
 
Total contractual cash obligations
 
$
1,315,107
   
$
124,977
   
$
525,789
   
$
100,337
   
$
564,004
 

 
 
Amount of Commitment Expirations by Years
 
 
 
Total
   
2014
     
2015-2016
     
2017-2018
   
After 2018
 
Revolving Credit Facility(b)
 
$
500,000
     
--
   
$
500,000
     
--
     
--
 
Standby letters of credit(f)
   
28,971
   
$
8,335
     
20,636
     
--
     
--
 
Guarantees (g)
   
827
     
168
     
228
   
$
235
   
$
196
 
Total commitments
 
$
529,798
   
$
8,503
   
$
520,864
   
$
235
   
$
196
 

(a) At August 2, 2013, the entire liability for uncertain tax positions (including penalties and interest) is classified as a long-term liability.  At this time, we are unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amounts and timing of payments in individual years because of uncertainties in the timing of the effective settlement of tax positions.  As such, the liability for uncertain tax positions of $28,841 is not included in the contractual cash obligations and commitments table above.
(b) Our term loan is payable on or before July 8, 2016 and our Revolving Credit Facility expires on July 8, 2016.  Using our expected principal payments and projected interest rates, we anticipate having interest payments of $15,077 and $23,688 in 2014 and 2015-2016, respectively.  The projected interest rates for our swapped portion of our outstanding borrowings are our fixed rates under our interest rate swaps (see Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements) plus our current credit spread of 1.50%.  The projected interest rate for our unswapped portion of our outstanding borrowings is the average of the three-year and five-year swap rates at August 2, 2013 of 1.33% plus our current credit spread.  Even though our current credit facility expires in 2016, we have the intent and ability to refinance our debt to maintain a sufficient amount of outstanding borrowings during the terms of our interest rate swaps that expire in 2017 and 2018.  Based on the fixed rates plus our current credit spread under these interest rate swaps, we anticipate having interest payments of $8,439 in 2017-2018.  Based on our outstanding borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility and standby letters of credit at August 2, 2013 and our current unused commitment fee as defined in the Credit Facility, our unused commitment fees in 2014 and 2015-2016 would be $646 and $1,255; however, the actual amount will differ based on actual usage of the Revolving Credit Facility in 2014 and 2015-2016.
(c) Includes base lease terms and certain optional renewal periods for which at the inception of the lease, it is reasonably assured that we will exercise.
(d) Purchase obligations consist of purchase orders for food and retail merchandise; purchase orders for capital expenditures, supplies, other operating needs and other services; and commitments under contracts for maintenance needs and other services.  We have excluded contracts that do not contain minimum purchase obligations.  We excluded long-term agreements for services and operating needs that can be cancelled within 60 days without penalty.  We included long-term agreements and certain retail purchase orders for services and operating needs that can be cancelled with more than 60 days notice without penalty only through the term of the notice.  We included long-term agreements for services and operating needs that only can be cancelled in the event of an uncured material breach or with a penalty through the entire term of the contract.  Because of the uncertainties of seasonal demands and promotional calendar changes, our best estimate of usage for food, supplies and other operating needs and services is ratably over either the notice period or the remaining life of the contract, as applicable, unless we had better information available at the time related to each contract.
(e) Other long-term obligations include our Non-Qualified Savings Plan ($25,263, with a corresponding long-term asset to fund the liability; see Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements), Deferred Compensation Plan ($3,276) and our long-term incentive plans ($8,777).
(f) Our standby letters of credit relate to securing reserved claims under workers’ compensation insurance and reduce our borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility.
(g)
Consists solely of guarantees associated with lease payments for two properties.  We are not aware of any non-performance under these arrangements that would result in us having to perform in accordance with the terms of those guarantees.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements Adopted and Not Yet Adopted
 
See Note 2 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of recent accounting guidance adopted and not yet adopted.  None of the accounting guidance discussed in Note 2 either had or is expected to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.
 
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

We prepare our Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions about future events and apply judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses and related disclosures.  We base our estimates and judgments on historical experience, current trends, outside advice from parties believed to be experts in such matters and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources.  However, because future events and their effects cannot be determined with certainty, actual results could differ from those assumptions and estimates, and such differences could be material.

Our significant accounting policies are discussed in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  Judgments and uncertainties affecting the application of those policies may result in materially different amounts being reported under different conditions or using different assumptions.  Critical accounting estimates are those that:

· management believes are most important to the accurate portrayal of both our financial condition and operating results; and
· require management’s most difficult, subjective or complex judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.

We consider the following accounting estimates to be most critical in understanding the judgments that are involved in preparing our Consolidated Financial Statements:

· Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Provision for Asset Dispositions
· Insurance Reserves
· Retail Inventory Valuation
· Tax Provision
· Share-Based Compensation
 
Management has reviewed these critical accounting estimates and related disclosures with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.
 
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Provision for Asset Dispositions
 
We assess the impairment of long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable.  Recoverability of assets is measured by comparing the carrying value of the asset to the undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset.  If the total expected future cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the asset, the carrying value is written down, for an asset to be held and used, to the estimated fair value or, for an asset to be disposed of, to the fair value, net of estimated costs of disposal.  Any loss resulting from impairment is recognized by a charge to income.  Judgments and estimates that we make related to the expected useful lives of long-lived assets and future cash flows are affected by factors such as changes in economic conditions and changes in operating performance.  The accuracy of such provisions can vary materially from original estimates and management regularly monitors the adequacy of the provisions until final disposition occurs.
 
We have not made any material changes in our methodology for assessing impairments during the past three years and we do not believe that there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions used by us to assess impairment on long-lived assets.  However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions used in estimating future cash flows and fair values of long-lived assets, we may be exposed to losses that could be material.

In 2011, we incurred impairment charges related to one of our stores.  In 2011, we also incurred impairment charges related to a corporate property held for sale.  For a more detailed discussion of these costs see the sub-section entitled “Impairment and Store Dispositions, Net” under the section above entitled “Results of Operations” presented earlier in the MD&A.
 
Insurance Reserves
 
We self-insure a significant portion of our expected workers’ compensation, general liability and health insurance programs.
We purchase insurance for individual workers’ compensation claims that exceed $250, $500 or $1,000 depending on the state in which the claim originates.  We purchase insurance for individual general liability claims that exceed $500.  We record a reserve for workers’ compensation and general liability for all unresolved claims and for an estimate of incurred but not reported claims (“IBNR”).  These reserves and estimates of IBNR claims are based upon a full scope actuarial study which is performed annually at the end of our third quarter and is adjusted by the actuarially determined losses and actual claims payments for the fourth quarter.  The reserves and losses in the actuarial study represent a range of possible outcomes within which no given estimate is more likely than any other estimate.  As such, we record the losses in the lower end of that range and discount them to present value using a risk-free interest rate based on projected timing of payments. We also monitor actual claims development, including incurrence or settlement of individual large claims during the interim periods between actuarial studies as another means of estimating the adequacy of our reserves.  Beginning in the second quarter of 2011, we began performing limited scope actuarial studies on a quarterly basis to verify and/or modify our reserves.
 
A significant portion of our health insurance program is currently self-insured.  Benefits for any individual (employee or dependents) in the self-insured group health program are limited to not more than $20 in any given plan year, and, in certain cases, to not more than $8 in any given year.  We record a liability for the self-insured portion of our group health program for all unpaid claims based upon a loss development analysis derived from actual group health claims payment experience.  Beginning in the first quarter of 2012, the fully-insured portion of our health insurance program contains a retrospective feature which could increase or decrease premiums based on actual claims experience.
 
Our accounting policies regarding insurance reserves include certain actuarial assumptions and management judgments regarding economic conditions, the frequency and severity of claims and claim development history and settlement practices.  We have not made any material changes in the accounting methodology used to establish our insurance reserves during the past three years and do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions used to calculate the insurance reserves.  However, changes in these actuarial assumptions or management judgments in the future may produce materially different amounts of expense that would be reported under these insurance programs.
 
Retail Inventory Valuation
 
Cost of goods sold includes the cost of retail merchandise sold at our stores utilizing the retail inventory method (“RIM”).  Under RIM, the valuation of our retail inventories is at cost and the resulting gross margins are calculated by applying a cost-to-retail ratio to the retail value of our inventories.  Inherent in the RIM calculation are certain significant management judgments and estimates, including initial markons, markups, markdowns and shrinkage, which may significantly impact the gross margin calculation as well as the ending inventory valuation.
 
Inventory valuation provisions are included for retail inventory obsolescence and retail inventory shrinkage.  Retail inventory is reviewed on a quarterly basis for obsolescence and adjusted as appropriate based on assumptions made by management and judgment regarding inventory aging and future promotional activities.  Cost of goods sold includes an estimate of shrinkage that is adjusted upon physical inventory counts.  Annual physical inventory counts are conducted throughout the third and fourth quarters based upon a cyclical inventory schedule.  An estimate of shrinkage is recorded for the time period between physical inventory counts by using a three-year average of the physical inventories’ results on a store-by-store basis.
 
We have not made any material changes in the methodologies, estimates or assumptions related to our merchandise inventories during the past three years and do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions in the future.  However, actual obsolescence or shrinkage recorded may produce materially different amounts than we have estimated.
 
Tax Provision
 
We must make estimates of certain items that comprise our income tax provision.  These estimates include effective state and local income tax rates, employer tax credits for items such as FICA taxes paid on employee tip income, Work Opportunity and Welfare to Work credits, as well as estimates related to certain depreciation and capitalization policies.  Our estimates are made based on current tax laws, the best available information at the time of the provision and historical experience.
We recognize (or derecognize) a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return in the financial statements when it is more likely than not (i.e., a likelihood of more than fifty percent) that the position would be sustained (or not sustained) upon examination by tax authorities.  A recognized tax position is then measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement.
 
We file our income tax returns many months after our year end.  These returns are subject to audit by various federal and state governments years after the returns are filed and could be subject to differing interpretations of the tax laws.  We then must assess the likelihood of successful legal proceedings or reach a settlement with the relevant taxing authority.  Although we believe that the judgments and estimates used in establishing our tax provision are reasonable, an unsuccessful legal proceeding or a settlement could result in material adjustments to our Consolidated Financial Statements and our consolidated financial position.

Share-Based Compensation
 
Our share-based compensation consists of nonvested stock awards, performance-based market stock units (“MSU Grants”) and stock options.  Share-based compensation expense is recognized based on the grant date fair value and the achievement of performance conditions for certain awards.  We recognize share-based compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which is generally the award’s vesting period, or the date on which retirement eligibility is achieved, if shorter.
 
Compensation expense is recognized for only the portion of our share-based compensation awards that are expected to vest.  Therefore, an estimated forfeiture rate is derived from historical employee termination behavior and is updated annually.  The forfeiture rate is applied on a straight-line basis over the service (vesting) period and we update the estimated forfeiture rate to actual at each reporting period.
 
Our nonvested stock awards are time vested except for awards under our long-term incentive plans which also contain performance conditions.  At each reporting period, we reassess the probability of achieving the performance conditions under our long-term incentive plans.  Determining whether the performance conditions will be achieved involves judgment and the estimate of expense for nonvested stock awards may be revised periodically based on changes in our determination of the probability of achieving the performance conditions.  Revisions are reflected in the period in which the estimate is changed. If any performance conditions are not met, no shares will be granted, no compensation will ultimately be recognized and, to the extent previously recognized, compensation expense will be reversed.
 
Generally, the fair value of each nonvested stock award which does not accrue dividends is equal to the market price of our stock at the date of grant reduced by the present value of expected dividends to be paid prior to the vesting period, discounted using an appropriate risk-free interest rate.  Other nonvested stock awards accrue dividends and their fair value is equal to the market price of our stock at the date of grant.
 
In 2011, we adopted annual long-term incentive plans that award MSU Grants to our executives instead of stock options.  In addition to providing the requisite service, MSU Grants contain both a market condition, total shareholder return, and a performance condition. Total shareholder return is defined as the change in our stock price plus dividends paid during the performance period.  The number of shares awarded at the end of the performance period will vary in direct proportion to a target number of shares set at the beginning of the period, up to a maximum of 150% of target, based on the change in our cumulative total shareholder return over the period.  The probability of the actual shares expected to be awarded is considered in the grant date valuation; therefore, the expense will not be adjusted to reflect the actual units awarded.  However, if the performance condition is not met, no shares will be granted, no compensation will ultimately be recognized and, to the extent previously recognized, compensation expense will be reversed.
 
The fair value of our MSU Grants was determined using the Monte-Carlo simulation model, which simulates a range of possible future stock prices and estimates the probabilities of the potential payouts.  The Monte-Carlo simulation model uses the average prices for the 60-consecutive calendar days beginning 30 days prior to and ending 30 days after the first business day of the performance period.  This model also incorporates the following ranges of assumptions:

· The expected volatility is a blend of implied volatility based on market-traded options on our stock and historical volatility of our stock over the period commensurate with the three-year performance period.
· The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury rate assumption commensurate with the three-year performance period.
· The expected dividend yield is based on our current dividend yield as the best estimate of projected dividend yield for periods within the three-year performance period.

We update the historical and implied components of the expected volatility assumption when new grants are made.

The fair value of our stock options was estimated on the date of grant using a binomial lattice-based option valuation model.  This model incorporates several key assumptions including expected volatility, risk-free rate of return, expected dividend yield and the option’s expected life.  Additionally, we use historical data to estimate option exercise and employee termination and these assumptions are updated annually. The expected volatility, option exercise and termination assumptions involve management’s best estimates at that time, all of which affect the fair value of the option calculated by the binomial lattice-based option valuation model and, ultimately, the expense that will be recognized over the life of the option.  The expected life is a by-product of the lattice model and was updated when new grants were made.  No stock options were granted in 2013 or 2012.

We have not made any material changes in our estimates or assumptions used to determine share-based compensation during the past three years.  We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the future estimates or assumptions used to determine share-based compensation expense.  However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to changes in share-based compensation expense that could be material.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to market risk, such as changes in interest rates and commodity prices.  We do not hold or use derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
 
Interest Rate Risk.  We have interest rate risk relative to our outstanding borrowings under our Credit Facility.  At August 2, 2013 and August 3, 2012, our outstanding borrowings under our Credit Facility totaled $400,000 and $525,000, respectively (see Note 5 to our Consolidated Financial Statements).  Loans under the Credit Facility bear interest, at our election, either at the prime rate or LIBOR plus a percentage point spread based on certain specified financial ratios.  Our policy has been to manage interest cost using a mix of fixed and variable rate debt (see Notes 5, 6 and 10 to our Consolidated Financial Statements).  To manage this risk in a cost efficient manner, we have entered into interest rate swaps.  A summary of our interest rate swaps at August 2, 2013 is as follows:
 
Trade Date
Effective Date
 
Term
(in Years)
   
Notional Amount
   
Fixed
Rate
 
August 10, 2010
May 3, 2013
   
2
   
$
200,000
     
2.73
%
July 25, 2011
May 3, 2013
   
2
     
50,000
     
2.00
%
July 25, 2011
May 3, 2013
   
3
     
50,000
     
2.45
%
September 19, 2011
May 3, 2013
   
2
     
25,000
     
1.05
%
September 19, 2011
May 3, 2013
   
2
     
25,000
     
1.05
%
December 7, 2011
May 3, 2013
   
3
     
50,000
     
1.40
%
March 18, 2013
May 3, 2015
   
3
     
50,000
     
1.51
%
April 8, 2013
May 3, 2015
   
2
     
50,000
     
1.05
%
April 15, 2013
May 3, 2015
   
2
     
50,000
     
1.03
%
April 22, 2013
May 3, 2015
   
3
     
25,000
     
1.30
%
April 25, 2013
May 3, 2015
   
3
     
25,000
     
1.30
%

The Company’s seven-year interest rate swap, which was entered into on May 4, 2006, expired on May 3, 2013.  This interest rate swap had a notional amount of $525,000 prior to expiration and a fixed rate of 5.57%.

At August 2, 2013 and August 3, 2012, our outstanding borrowings were swapped at weighted average interest rates of 3.73% and 7.57%, respectively, which are the weighted average fixed rates of our interest rate swaps plus our current credit spread.  See Note 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of our interest rate swaps.
Commodity Price Risk. Many of the food products that we purchase are affected by commodity pricing and are, therefore, subject to price volatility caused by market conditions, weather, production problems, delivery difficulties and other factors which are outside our control and which are generally unpredictable.
 
The following table highlights the five food categories which accounted for the largest shares of our food purchases in 2013 and 2012:

 
 
Percentage of Food Purchases
 
 
 
2013
   
2012
 
Beef
   
13
%
   
12
%
Dairy (including eggs)
   
12
%
   
13
%
Fruits and vegetables
   
12
%
   
14
%
Poultry
   
11
%
   
10
%
Pork
   
11
%
   
10
%
 
Other categories affected by the commodities markets, such as grains and seafood, may each account for as much as 7% of our food purchases. While some of our food items are produced to our proprietary specifications, our food items are based on generally available products, and if any existing suppliers fail, or are unable to deliver in quantities required by us, we believe that there are sufficient other quality suppliers in the marketplace that our sources of supply can be replaced as necessary to allow us to avoid any material adverse effects that could be caused by such unavailability. We also recognize, however, that commodity pricing is extremely volatile and can change unpredictably even over short periods of time. Changes in commodity prices would affect us and our competitors generally, and depending on the terms and duration of supply contracts, sometimes simultaneously. We enter into contracts for certain of our products in an effort to minimize volatility of supply and pricing. In many cases, or over the longer term, we believe we will be able to pass through some or much of the increased commodity costs by adjusting our menu pricing. From time to time, competitive circumstances, or judgments about consumer acceptance of price increases, may limit menu price flexibility, and in those circumstances, increases in commodity prices can result in lower margins.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.
Lebanon, Tennessee
 
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of August 2, 2013 and August 3, 2012, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended August 2, 2013. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our 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 audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. and its subsidiaries as of August 2, 2013 and August 3, 2012, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended August 2, 2013, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
 
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of August 2, 2013, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated September 26, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Nashville, Tennessee
September 26, 2013
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
 
(In thousands except share data)
 
ASSETS
 
August 2, 2013
   
August 3, 2012
 
Current Assets:
 
   
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
121,718
   
$
151,962
 
Property held for sale
   
883
     
884
 
Accounts receivable
   
15,942
     
14,609
 
Inventories
   
146,687
     
143,267
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
12,648
     
11,405
 
Deferred income taxes
   
4,316
     
15,181
 
Total current assets
   
302,194
     
337,308
 
Property and Equipment:
               
Land
   
299,995
     
296,500
 
Buildings and improvements
   
746,764
     
726,814
 
Buildings under capital leases
   
3,289
     
3,289
 
Restaurant and other equipment
   
484,013
     
458,370
 
Leasehold improvements
   
255,058
     
242,305
 
Construction in progress
   
8,704
     
14,293
 
Total
   
1,797,823
     
1,741,571
 
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization of capital leases
   
771,454
     
719,201
 
Property and equipment – net
   
1,026,369
     
1,022,370
 
Other assets
   
59,743
     
59,314
 
Total
 
$
1,388,306
   
$
1,418,992
 
 
               
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
Current Liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
 
$
110,637
   
$
101,271
 
Taxes withheld and accrued
   
35,076
     
39,704
 
Accrued employee compensation
   
62,780
     
66,923
 
Accrued employee benefits
   
24,477
     
26,546
 
Deferred revenues
   
44,098
     
37,696
 
Dividend payable
   
17,847
     
9,732
 
Current interest rate swap liability
   
--
     
20,215
 
Other current liabilities
   
21,152
     
16,972
 
Total current liabilities
   
316,067
     
319,059
 
Long-term debt
   
400,000
     
525,036
 
Long-term interest rate swap liability
   
11,644
     
14,166
 
Other long-term obligations
   
120,073
     
114,897
 
Deferred income taxes
   
56,496
     
63,159
 
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 10 and 16)
               
Shareholders’ Equity:
               
Preferred stock – 100,000,000 shares of $.01 par value authorized; 300,000 shares designated as Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock; no shares issued
   
--
     
--
 
Common stock – 400,000,000 shares of $.01 par value authorized; 2013 – 23,795,327 shares issued and outstanding; 2012 – 23,473,024
               
shares issued and outstanding
   
237
     
234
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
51,728
     
28,676
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
   
(6,612
)
   
(21,158
)
Retained earnings
   
438,673
     
374,923
 
Total shareholders’ equity
   
484,026
     
382,675
 
Total
 
$
1,388,306
   
$
1,418,992
 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
 
 
(In thousands except share data)
Fiscal years ended
 
 
 
August 2, 2013
   
August 3, 2012
   
July 29, 2011
 
 
 
   
   
 
Total revenue
 
$
2,644,630
   
$
2,580,195
   
$
2,434,435
 
Cost of goods sold
   
854,684
     
827,484
     
772,471
 
Gross profit
   
1,789,946
     
1,752,711
     
1,661,964
 
Labor and other related expenses
   
962,559
     
951,435
     
904,229
 
Other store operating expenses
   
482,601
     
464,130
     
451,957
 
Store operating income
   
344,786
     
337,146
     
305,778
 
General and administrative expenses
   
143,262
     
146,171
     
139,222
 
Impairment and store dispositions, net
   
--
     
--
     
(625
)
Operating income
   
201,524
     
190,975
     
167,181
 
Interest expense
   
35,742
     
44,687
     
51,490
 
Income before income taxes
   
165,782
     
146,288
     
115,691
 
Provision for income taxes
   
48,517
     
43,207
     
30,483
 
Net income
 
$
117,265
   
$
103,081
   
$
85,208
 
 
                       
Net income per share - basic
 
$
4.95
   
$
4.47
   
$
3.70
 
Net income per share - diluted
 
$
4.90
   
$
4.40
   
$
3.61
 
 
                       
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
   
23,708,875
     
23,067,566
     
22,998,200
 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
   
23,948,321
     
23,408,126
     
23,634,675
 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
 
 
(In thousands)
Fiscal years ended
 
 
 
August 2, 2013
   
August 3, 2012
   
July 29, 2011
 
 
 
   
   
 
Net income
 
$
117,265
   
$
103,081
   
$
85,208
 
 
                       
Other comprehensive income before income tax expense:
                       
Change in fair value of interest rate swaps
   
23,620
     
17,223
     
14,677
 
Income tax expense
   
9,074
     
349
     
3,860
 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
   
14,546
     
16,874
     
10,817
 
Comprehensive income
 
$
131,811
   
$
119,955
   
$
96,025
 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(In thousands except share data)

 
 
Common Stock
   
Additional Paid-In
   
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
   
Retained
   
Total Shareholders’
 
 
 
Shares
   
Amount
   
Capital
   
Loss
   
Earnings
   
Equity
 
Balances at July 30, 2010
   
22,732,781
   
$
228
   
$
6,200
   
$
(48,849
)
 
$
234,038
   
$
191,617
 
Comprehensive Income:
                                               
Net income
   
--
     
--
     
--
     
--
     
85,208
     
85,208
 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
   
--
     
--
     
--
     
10,817
     
--
     
10,817
 
Total comprehensive income
   
--
     
--
     
--
     
10,817
     
85,208
     
96,025
 
Cash dividends declared - $.88 per share
   
--
     
--
     
--
     
--
     
(20,489
)
   
(20,489
)
Share-based compensation
   
--
     
--
     
9,796
     
--
     
--
     
9,796
 
Exercise of share-based compensation awards
   
784,793
     
7
     
20,533
     
--
     
--
     
20,540
 
Tax benefit realized upon exercise of share-based compensation awards
   
--
     
--
     
4,108
     
--
     
--
     
4,108
 
Purchases and retirement of common stock
   
(676,600
)
   
(7
)
   
(33,556
)
   
--
     
--
     
(33,563
)
Balances at July 29, 2011
   
22,840,974
     
228
     
7,081
     
(38,032
)
   
298,757
     
268,034
 
Comprehensive Income:
                                               
Net income
   
--
     
--
     
--
     
--
     
103,081
     
103,081
 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
   
--
     
--
     
--
     
16,874
     
--
     
16,874
 
Total comprehensive income
   
--
     
--
     
--
     
16,874
     
103,081
     
119,955
 
Cash dividends declared - $1.15 per share
   
--
     
--
     
--
     
--
     
(26,915
)
   
(26,915
)
Share-based compensation
   
--
     
--
     
14,420
     
--
     
--
     
14,420
 
Exercise of share-based compensation awards
   
897,588
     
9
     
17,593
     
--
     
--
     
17,602
 
Tax benefit realized upon exercise of share-based compensation awards
   
--
     
--
     
4,502
     
--
     
--
     
4,502
 
Purchases and retirement of common stock
   
(265,538
)
   
(3
)
   
(14,920
)
   
--
     
--