UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 ____________________________________
FORM 10-K  
S
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the Fiscal Year Ended August 30, 2017  
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the Transition Period From              to             
 ____________________________________  
Commission file number 001-08308 
Luby's, Inc.
  (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
74-1335253
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(IRS Employer Identification Number)
 
13111 Northwest Freeway, Suite 600
Houston, Texas 77040
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
 
(713) 329-6800
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)  
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class
 
Name of Each Exchange on   which registered  
Common Stock ($0.32 par value per share)
 
New York Stock Exchange
 
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   ☐    No   S
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes  ☐    No   S
 
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   S      No  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes   S      No  ☐
 
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the 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.   S
 
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. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer  ☐
Accelerated filer   S
Non-accelerated filer  ☐
Smaller reporting company   ☐
 
Emerging growth company   ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ☐    No   S
 
The aggregate market value of the shares of common stock of the registrant held by nonaffiliates of the registrant as of March 15, 2017 , was approximately $62,273,351 (based upon the assumption that directors and executive officers are the only affiliates).
 
As of November 7, 2017 , there were 29,315,465 shares of the registrant’s common stock outstanding.
 
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

  Portions of the following document are incorporated by reference into the designated parts of this Form 10-K:
  Definitive Proxy Statement relating to 2018 annual meeting of shareholders (in Part III)

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Luby’s, Inc.
Form 10-K
Year ended August 30, 2017
Table of Contents
 
Page
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

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Additional Information  
 
We file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and current reports on Form 8-K. The public may read and copy any materials we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. We are an electronic filer, and the SEC maintains an Internet site at http://www.sec.gov that contains the reports, proxy and information statements, and other information that we file electronically. Our website address is www.lubysinc.com . Please note that our website address is provided as an inactive textual reference only. We make available free of charge through our website the annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and all amendments to those reports as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. The information provided on our website is not part of this report, and is therefore not incorporated by reference unless such information is specifically referenced elsewhere in this report.
 
Compliance with New York Stock Exchange Requirements
 
We submitted to the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) the CEO certification required by Section 303A.12(a) of the NYSE’s Listed Company Manual with respect to our fiscal year ended August 31, 2016 . We expect to submit the CEO certification with respect to our fiscal year ended August 30, 2017 to the NYSE within 30 days after our annual meeting of shareholders. We are filing as an exhibit to this Form 10-K the certifications required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.


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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
This Annual Report on (this "Form 10-K”) contains statements that are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements contained in this Form 10-K, other than statements of historical facts, are “forward-looking statements” for purposes of these provisions, including any statements regarding:

future operating results;
future capital expenditures, including expected reductions in capital expenditures;
future debt, including liquidity and the sources and availability of funds related to debt;
plans for our new prototype restaurants;
plans for expansion of our business;
scheduled openings of new units;
closing existing units;
effectiveness of management’s disposal plans;
future sales of assets and the gains or losses that may be recognized as a result of any such sales; and
continued compliance with the terms of our 2016 Credit Agreement.

In some cases, investors can identify these statements by forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “outlook,” “may” “should,” “will,” and “would” or similar words. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by management in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe are relevant. Although management believes that our assumptions are reasonable based on information currently available, those assumptions are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control. The following factors, as well as the factors set forth in Item 1A of this Form 10-K and any other cautionary language in this Form 10-K, provide examples of risks, uncertainties, and events that may cause our financial and operational results to differ materially from the expectations described in our forward-looking statements:
 
general business and economic conditions;
the impact of competition;
our operating initiatives, changes in promotional, couponing and advertising strategies, and the success of management’s business plans;
fluctuations in the costs of commodities, including beef, poultry, seafood, dairy, cheese, oils and produce;
ability to raise menu prices and customers acceptance of changes in menu items;
increases in utility costs, including the costs of natural gas and other energy supplies;
changes in the availability and cost of labor, including the ability to attract qualified managers and team members;
the seasonality of the business;
collectability of accounts receivable;
changes in governmental regulations, including changes in minimum wages and healthcare benefit regulation;
the effects of inflation and changes in our customers’ disposable income, spending trends and habits;
the ability to realize property values;
the availability and cost of credit;
weather conditions in the regions in which our restaurants operate;
costs relating to legal proceedings;
impact of adoption of new accounting standards;
effects of actual or threatened future terrorist attacks in the United States;
unfavorable publicity relating to operations, including publicity concerning food quality, illness or other health concerns or labor relations; and
the continued service of key management personnel.

Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this Form 10-K, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Investors should be aware that the occurrence of the events described above and elsewhere in this Form 10-K could have material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition.


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PART I
 
Item 1. Business
 
Overview
 
Luby’s, Inc. is a multi-branded company operating in the restaurant industry and in the contract food services industry. Our primary brands include Luby’s Cafeteria, Fuddruckers - World’s Greatest Hamburgers ® and Luby’s Culinary Contract Services. We also operate another brand named Cheeseburger in Paradise.
 
In this Form 10-K, unless otherwise specified, “Luby’s,” “we,” “our,” “us” and “Company” refer to Luby’s, Inc., Luby's Fuddruckers Restaurants, LLC, a Texas Limited Liability Company ("LFR") and the consolidated subsidiaries of Luby’s, Inc. References to “Luby’s Cafeteria” refer specifically to the Luby’s Cafeteria brand restaurant.
 
Our Company’s vision is that our guests, employees and shareholders are extremely loyal to our restaurant brands and value them as a significant part of their lives. We want our company’s performance to make it a leader wherever it operates and in its sector of our industry.
 
We are headquartered in Houston, Texas. Our corporate headquarters is located at 13111 Northwest Freeway, Suite 600, Houston, Texas 77040, and our telephone number at that address is (713) 329-6800. Our website is www.lubysinc.com. The information on our website is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part of this annual report on Form 10-K or incorporated into any of our other filings with the SEC.
 
As of November 7, 2017 , we operated 163 restaurants located throughout the United States, as set forth in the table below. These establishments are located in close proximity to retail centers, business developments and residential areas. Of the 163
restaurants, 87 are located on property that we own and 76 are located on property that we lease. Six locations consist of a side-by-side Luby’s Cafeteria and Fuddruckers restaurant, to which we refer herein as a “Combo location”.
 
 
Total
Texas:
 
Houston Metro
53

San Antonio Metro
16

Rio Grande Valley
12

Dallas/Fort Worth Metro
14

Austin
9

Other Texas Markets
17

California
10

Maryland
4

Arizona
5

Illinois
4

Virginia
2

Georgia
3

Indiana
2

Mississippi
2

Other States
10

Total
163

  
As of November 7, 2017 , we operated 23 locations through our Culinary Contract Services (“CCS”). We operated 14 of these locations in the Houston, Texas area, two in San Antonio, Texas, two in the Texas Lower Rio Grande Valley, and one in Dallas, Texas. Outside of Texas, we operated one in each of the following states: Georgia, Missouri, North Carolina, and Oklahoma. CCS provides food service management to healthcare, sports stadiums, corporate dining facilities, and retail grocery stores.


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As of November 7, 2017 , we had 48 franchisees operating 110 Fuddruckers restaurants in locations as set forth in the table below. Our largest five franchisees own five to 12 restaurants each. Sixteen franchise owners each own two to four restaurants. The twenty-seven remaining franchise owners each own one restaurant.
 
 
Fuddruckers
Franchises
Texas:
 
Dallas/Fort Worth Metro
10

Other Texas Markets
10

California
7

Connecticut
1

Delaware
1

Florida
8

Georgia
2

Iowa
1

Louisiana
3

Maine
1

Maryland
1

Massachusetts
4

Michigan
4

Missouri
3

Montana
5

Nebraska
1

Nevada
3

New Jersey
2

New Mexico
4

North Carolina
1

North Dakota
1

Oklahoma
1

Oregon
1

Pennsylvania
5

South Carolina
8

South Dakota
2

Tennessee
2

Virginia
3

Wisconsin
1

International:
 
Canada
2

Colombia
3

Dominican Republic
1

Italy
1

Mexico
3

Panama
3

Puerto Rico
1

Total
110

 
In November 1997, a prior owner of the Fuddruckers - World’s Greatest Hamburgers ® brand granted to a licensee the exclusive right to use the Fuddruckers proprietary marks, trade dress, and system to develop Fuddruckers restaurants in a territory consisting of certain countries in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. As of November 7, 2017 , this licensee operates 34 restaurants that are licensed to use the Fuddruckers proprietary marks in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait. The Company does not receive revenue or royalties from these restaurants.


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For additional information regarding our restaurant locations, please read “Properties” in Item 2 of Part I of this report.
 
Luby’s, Inc. (formerly, Luby’s Cafeterias, Inc.) was founded in 1947 in San Antonio, Texas. The Company was originally incorporated in Texas in 1959, with nine cafeterias in various locations, under the name Cafeterias, Inc. It became a publicly held corporation in 1973, and became listed on the NYSE in 1982.

Luby’s, Inc. was reincorporated in Delaware on December 31, 1991 and was restructured into a holding company on February 1, 1997, at which time all of the operating assets were transferred to Luby’s Restaurants Limited Partnership, a Texas limited partnership composed of two wholly owned, indirect subsidiaries. On July 9, 2010, Luby’s Restaurants Limited Partnership was converted into LFR. All restaurant operations are conducted by LFR.
 
On July 26, 2010, we, through our subsidiary, LFR, completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Fuddruckers, Inc., Magic Brands, LLC and certain of their affiliates (collectively, “Fuddruckers”) for approximately $63.1 million in cash. LFR also assumed certain of Fuddruckers’ obligations, real estate leases and contracts. Upon the completion of the acquisition, LFR became the owner and operator of 56 Fuddruckers locations and three Koo Koo Roo Chicken Bistro (“Koo Koo Roo”) locations with franchisees operating an additional 130 Fuddruckers locations.
 
On December 6, 2012, we completed the acquisition of all of the Membership Units of Paradise Restaurant Group, LLC and certain of their affiliates, collectively known as Cheeseburger in Paradise, for approximately $10.3 million in cash plus customary working capital adjustments. We assumed certain of Cheeseburger in Paradise obligations, real estate leases and contracts and became the owners of 23 full service Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants located in 14 states.
 
On August 27, 2014, the Company completed an internal restructuring of certain affiliates of the Luby’s Cafeteria business, whereby these companies were merged with and into LFR, as the successor. The principal purpose of these events was to simplify the Luby’s corporate structure. Following these events, the Company’s restaurant operations continue to be conducted by LFR and Paradise Cheeseburger, LLC. Our operating restaurant locations remain unchanged by these events.
 
Luby’s Cafeteria Operations
 
At Luby’s Cafeterias, our mission is to serve our guests convenient, great tasting meals in a friendly environment that makes everyone feel welcome and at home. We do things The Luby’s Way, which means we cook in small batches from scratch using real food, real ingredients prepared fresh daily, and our employees and our company get involved and support the fabric of our local communities. We buy local produce as much as possible. We promise to breathe life into the experience of dining out and make every meal meaningful. We were founded in San Antonio, Texas in 1947.
 
Our cafeteria food delivery model allows customers to select freshly-prepared items from our serving line including entrées, vegetables, salads, desserts, breads and beverages before transporting their selected items on serving trays to a table or booth of their choice in the dining area. Each restaurant offers 15 to 22 entrées, 12 to 14 vegetable dishes, 8 to 10 salads, and 10 to 12 varieties of desserts daily.
 
Luby’s Cafeteria’s product offerings are Americana-themed home-style classic made-from-scratch favorites priced to appeal to a broad range of customers, including those customers that focus on fast wholesome choices, quality, variety, and affordability. We have had particular success among families with children, shoppers, travelers, seniors, and business people looking for a quick, freshly prepared meal at a fair price. All of our restaurants sell food-to-go orders which comprise approximately 13% of our Luby's Cafeteria restaurant sales.
 
Menus are reviewed periodically and new offerings and seasonal food preferences are regularly incorporated. Each restaurant is operated as a separate unit under the control of a general manager who has responsibility for day-to-day operations, including food production and personnel employment and supervision. Restaurants generally have a staff led by a general manager, an associate manager and assistant managers. We grant authority to our restaurant managers to direct the daily operations of their stores and, in turn, we compensate them on the basis of their performance. We believe this strategy is a significant factor contributing to the profitability of our restaurants. Each general manager is supervised by an area leader. Each area leader is responsible for approximately 7 to 10 units, depending on the area supervised.
  
In fiscal 2017 , we closed four Luby's Cafeterias. The number of Luby’s Cafeterias was 88 at fiscal year-end 2017 .
 

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New Luby’s Restaurants
 
In 2007, we developed and opened an updated prototype ground-up new construction Luby's Cafeteria. Since then we have rebuilt three locations and newly developed four locations according to this prototype.
 
In 2012, we opened a prototype ground-up new construction combination Luby’s and Fuddruckers restaurant location featuring a Luby’s Cafeteria and a Fuddruckers Restaurant on the same property with a common wall but separate kitchens and dining areas (“Combo location”). Since 2012, we built five more Combo locations; four in fiscal 2014; and one in fiscal 2015.
 
Fuddruckers
 
At Fuddruckers, our mission is to serve the World’s Greatest Hamburgers ® using only 100% fresh, never frozen, all American premium beef, buns baked daily in our kitchens, and the freshest, highest quality ingredients on our “you top it” produce bar. With a focus on excellent food, attentive guest service and an inviting atmosphere, we are committed to making every guest happy, one burger at a time! Fuddruckers restaurants feature casual, welcoming dining areas where Americana-themed décor is featured. Fuddruckers was founded in San Antonio, Texas in 1980.
 
While Fuddruckers’ signature burgers and fries account for the majority of its restaurant sales, its menu also includes exotic burgers, such as buffalo and elk, steak sandwiches, various grilled and breaded chicken breast sandwiches, hot dogs, a variety of salads, chicken tenders, fish sandwiches, hand breaded onion rings, soft drinks, handmade milkshakes, and bakery items. A variety of over 100 carbonated soft drinks including our own unique Sweet Cherry Soda, which is exclusively offered at Fuddruckers restaurants, along with other varieties such as Powerade ® , and flavored waters are offered through Coke Freestyle ® self-service dispensers. Additionally, beer and wine are served and, generally, account for less than 2% of restaurant sales. Food-to-go sales comprise approximately 8% of Fuddruckers restaurant sales.
 
Restaurants generally have one general manager with two or three assistant managers and a number of full-time and part-time associates working in overlapping shifts. Since Fuddruckers generally utilizes a self-service concept, similar to fast casual, it typically does not employ waiters or waitresses. Fuddruckers restaurant operations are currently divided into a total of ten geographic areas, each supervised by an area leader. On average, each area leader supervises five to nine restaurants.
 
In fiscal 2017 , we opened one new Company-owned Fuddruckers restaurant and closed five Company-owned Fuddruckers restaurants. Of the five closed Fuddruckers restaurants, we sold one to an existing franchisee with that restaurant becoming a franchised restaurant. The number of Fuddruckers restaurants was 71 at fiscal year-end 2017 .
  
Cheeseburger in Paradise
 
Cheeseburger in Paradise is known for its inviting beach-party atmosphere, its big, juicy burgers, salads, coastal fare, and other tasty and unique items. Cheeseburger in Paradise is a full-service island-themed restaurant and bar developed ten years ago in collaboration with legendary entertainer Jimmy Buffet based on one of his most popular songs. The restaurants also feature a unique tropical-themed island bar with many televisions and tasty “boat drinks.” As of our fiscal year-end 2017 , we operated eight of the original Cheeseburger in Paradise locations.

Culinary Contract Services
 
Our CCS segment consists of a business line servicing healthcare, sports stadiums, corporate dining clients, and retail grocery stores. The healthcare accounts are full service and typically include in-room delivery, catering, vending, coffee service, and retail dining. Our mission is to re-define the contract food industry by providing tasty and healthy menus with customized solutions for healthcare, senior living, business and industry and higher education facilities. We seek to provide the quality of a restaurant dining experience in an institutional setting. At of fiscal year-end  2017 , we had contracts with 14 long-term acute care hospitals, five acute care hospitals, three business and industry clients, one sport stadium, one medical office building, and one freestanding coffee venue located inside an office building. We have the unique ability to deliver quality services that include facility design and procurement as well as nutrition and branded food services to our clients.


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Franchising
 
Fuddruckers offers franchises in markets where it deems expansion to be advantageous to the development of the Fuddruckers concept and system of restaurants. A standard franchise agreement generally has an initial term of 20 years. Franchise agreements typically grant franchisees an exclusive territorial license to operate a single restaurant within a specified area, usually a four-mile radius surrounding the franchised restaurant. Luby’s management will continue developing its relationships with our franchisees over the coming years and beyond.
 
Franchisees bear all direct costs involved in the development, construction and operation of their restaurants. In exchange for a franchise fee, we provide franchise assistance in the following areas: site selection, prototypical architectural plans, interior and exterior design and layout, training, marketing and sales techniques, assistance by a Fuddruckers “opening team” at the time a franchised restaurant opens, and operations and accounting guidelines set forth in various policies and procedures manuals.
 
All franchisees are required to operate their restaurants in accordance with Fuddruckers standards and specifications, including controls over menu items, food quality and preparation. We require the successful completion of our training program by a minimum of three managers for each franchised restaurant. In addition, franchised restaurants are evaluated regularly for compliance with franchise agreements, including standards and specifications through the use of periodic, unannounced on-site inspections, and standards evaluation reports.
 
The number of franchised restaurants was 113 at fiscal year-end 2017 and 113 at fiscal year-end  2016 .
 
For additional information regarding our business segments, please read Notes 1 and 2 to the consolidated financial statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

Strategic Focus

Our strategic focus is to generate consistent and sustainable same-store sales growth and improved store level profit. We want our company’s performance to make it a leader wherever it operates and in its sector of our industry. We strive to provide attractive returns on shareholder capital. From an operating standpoint, we support this strategic focus through the following:

1.
Consistently successful execution: Every day, with every guest, at every restaurant we operate.

2.
Growing our human capital: Our team members are the most critical factor in ensuring our Company’s success. Our relentless focus as a company must be inspiring and developing our team members to delight our guests.

3.
Raising awareness of our brand: Our restaurants provide guests in our local communities with memories of family, friends, childhood, a great date, a memorable birthday, or a significant accomplishment. The most reliable ways to grow and sustain our business is to perpetuate word of mouth and remain involved in the community. We must share our story with our guests in our restaurants. This allows new guests to learn our brand story and also reaffirms it with legacy and loyal guests. Loyal guests spread and preach the word about our brand. Our most loyal guests typically agree to be in our E-club so we can communicate with them and reward them.

4.
Improving restaurant appearances: We recognize the importance of remodeling our legacy restaurants to remain relevant and appealing to keep loyal guests coming back and draw new ones in, and to convert occasional guests into loyal fans who give us free word-of-mouth advertising and ultimately to increase sales and profitability.

5.
Effective cost management:  We evaluate each area of our business to assess that we are spending and investing at appropriate levels. This includes restaurant operating costs and corporate overhead costs. Within our restaurants, we seek opportunities with our food and supplies purchasing, menu offerings, labor productivity, and contracts with restaurant service providers to maintain an appropriate restaurant level cost structure. Within our corporate overhead, we seek opportunities to leverage technology and efficient work processes to maintain a stream-lined corporate overhead.

We remain focused on the key drivers of our businesses to achieve operational excellence of our brands and to efficiently manage costs to grow profitability and enhance shareholder value.



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Intellectual Property
 
Luby’s, Inc. owns or is licensed to use valuable intellectual property including trademarks, service marks, patents, copyrights, trade secrets and other proprietary information, including the Luby’s and Fuddruckers logos, trade names and trademarks, which are of material importance to our business. Depending on the jurisdiction, trademarks, and service marks generally are valid as long as they are used and/or registered. Patents, copyrights, and licenses are of varying durations. The success of our business depends on the continued ability to use existing trademarks, service marks, and other components of our brands in order to increase brand awareness and further develop branded products. We take prudent actions to protect our intellectual property.
 
Employees
 
As of November 7, 2017 , we had an active workforce of 7,320 employees consisting of restaurant management employees, non-management restaurants employees, CCS management employees, CCS non-management employees, and office and facility service employees. Employee relations are considered to be good. We have never had a strike or work stoppage, and we are not subject to collective bargaining agreements.

Item 1A. Risk Factors
 
An investment in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. Investors should consider carefully the risks and uncertainties described below, and all other information included in this Form 10-K, before deciding whether to invest in our common stock. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also become important factors that may harm our business, financial condition or results of operations. The occurrence of any of the following risks could harm our business, financial condition, and results of operations. The trading price of our common stock could decline due to any of these risks and uncertainties, and investors may lose part or all of their investment.

General economic factors may adversely affect our results of operations.

The impact of inflation on food, labor and other aspects of our business can adversely affect our results of operations. Commodity inflation in food, beverages, and utilities can also impact our financial performance. Although we attempt to offset the effects of inflation through periodic menu price increases, cost controls, and incremental improvement in operating margins, we may not be able to completely eliminate such effects, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
 
Our ability to service our debt obligations is primarily dependent upon our future financial performance.
 
As of August 30, 2017 , we had shareholders’ equity of approximately $144 million compared to approximately:

$31.0 million of long-term debt comprised of $26.6 million 5-year Term Loan and $4.4 million 5-year Revolver;
$66.2 million of minimum operating and capital lease commitments; and
$1.3 million of standby letters of credit.
 
Our ability to meet our debt service obligations depends on our ability to generate positive cash flows from operations and proceeds for assets held for sale.

If we are unable to service our debt obligations, we may have to:

delay spending on maintenance projects and other capital projects, including new restaurant development;
sell assets;
restructure or refinance our debt; or
sell equity securities.
 

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 Our debt, and the covenants contained in the instruments governing our debt, could:

result in a reduction of our credit rating, which would make it more difficult for us to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms;
require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flows from operating activities to the repayment of our debt and the interest associated with our debt;
limit our operating flexibility due to financial and other restrictive covenants, including restrictions on capital investments, debt levels, incurring additional debt and creating liens on our properties;
place us at a competitive disadvantage compared with our competitors that have relatively less debt;
expose us to interest rate risk because certain of our borrowings are at variable rates of interest; and
make us more vulnerable to downturns in our business.
 
If we are unable to service our debt obligations, we may not be able to sell equity securities, sell additional assets, or restructure or refinance our debt. Our ability to generate sufficient cash flow from operating activities to pay the principal of and interest on our indebtedness is subject to market conditions and other factors which are beyond our control.
 
We face the risk of adverse publicity and litigation, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial performance.
 
We may from, time to time, be the subject of complaints or litigation from customers alleging illness, injury or other food quality, health or operational concerns. Unfavorable publicity relating to one or more of our restaurants or to the restaurant industry in general may taint public perception of the Luby’s Cafeteria and Fuddruckers brands. Multi-unit restaurant businesses can be adversely affected by publicity resulting from poor food quality, illness, or other health concerns or operating issues stemming from one or a limited number of restaurants. Publicity resulting from these allegations may materially adversely affect our business and financial performance, regardless of whether the allegations are valid or whether we are liable. In addition, we are subject to employee claims alleging injuries, wage and hour violations, discrimination, harassment or wrongful termination. In recent years, a number of restaurant companies have been subject to lawsuits, including class action lawsuits, alleging violations of federal and state law regarding workplace, employment, and similar matters. A number of these lawsuits have resulted in the payment of substantial damages by the defendants. Regardless of whether any claims against us are valid or whether we are ultimately determined to be liable, claims may be expensive to defend, and may divert time and money away from our operations and hurt our financial performance. A judgment significantly in excess of our insurance coverage, if any, for any claims could materially adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations.
 
We are subject to risks related to the provision of employee healthcare benefits, worker’s compensation and employee injury claims.
 
Health insurance coverage is provided through fully-insured contracts with insurance carriers. Insurance premiums are a shared cost between the Company and covered employees.  The liability for covered health claims is borne by the insurance carriers per the terms of each policy contract.
 
Workers’ compensation coverage is provided through “self-insurance” by LFR. We record expenses under the plan based on estimates of the costs of expected claims, administrative costs, stop-loss insurance premiums, and expected trends. These estimates are then adjusted each year to reflect actual costs incurred. Actual costs under these plans are subject to variability that is dependent upon demographics and the actual costs of claims made. In the event our cost estimates differ from actual costs, we could incur additional unplanned costs, which could adversely impact our financial condition.
 
In March 2010, comprehensive healthcare reform legislation under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the "Affordable Care Act") and Healthcare Education and Affordability Reconciliation Act was passed and signed into law. Among other things, the healthcare reform legislation includes mandated coverage requirements, eliminates pre-existing condition exclusions and annual and lifetime maximum limits, restricts the extent to which policies can be rescinded, and imposes new and significant taxes on health insurers and healthcare benefits. Although requirements were phased in over a period of time, the most impactful provisions began in the third quarter of fiscal 2015.


11



Due to the breadth and complexity of the healthcare reform legislation, the lack of implementing regulations in some cases, and interpretive guidance, and the phased-in nature of the implementation, it is difficult to predict the overall impact of the healthcare reform legislation on our business and the businesses of our franchisees over the coming years. Possible adverse effects of the healthcare reform legislation include reduced revenues, increased costs and exposure to expanded liability and requirements for us to revise the ways in which we conduct business or risk of loss of business. It is also possible that healthcare plans offered by other companies with which we compete for employees will make us less attractive to our current or potential employees. And in any event, implementing the requirements of the Affordable Care Act has imposed some additional administrative costs on us, and those costs may increase over time. In addition, our results of operations, financial position and cash flows could be materially adversely affected. Our franchisees face the potential of similar adverse effects, and many of them are small business owners who may have significant difficulty absorbing the increased costs.  
 
We face intense competition, and if we are unable to compete effectively or if customer preferences change, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected.
 
The restaurant industry is intensely competitive and is affected by changes in customer tastes and dietary habits and by national, regional and local economic conditions and demographic trends. New menu items, concepts, and trends are constantly emerging. Our Luby’s Cafeteria brand offer a large variety of entrées, side dishes and desserts and our continued success depends, in part, on the popularity of our cuisine and cafeteria-style dining. A change away from this cuisine or dining style could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. Our Fuddruckers brand offers grilled-to-order burgers that feature always fresh and never frozen, 100% USDA premium-cut beef with no fillers or additives and sesame-topped buns baked from scratch on-site throughout the day. While burgers are the signature, the engaging menu offers variety for many tastes with an array of sandwiches, platters and salads. Changing customer preferences, tastes and dietary habits can adversely affect our business and financial performance. We compete on quality, variety, value, service, concept, price, and location with well-established national and regional chains, as well as with locally owned and operated restaurants. We face significant competition from family-style restaurants, fast-casual restaurants, and buffets as well as fast food restaurants. In addition, we also face growing competition as a result of the trend toward convergence in grocery, delicatessen, and restaurant services, particularly in the supermarket industry, which offers “convenient meals” in the form of improved entrées and side dishes from the delicatessen section. Many of our competitors have significantly greater financial resources than we do. We also compete with other restaurants and retail establishments for restaurant sites and personnel. We anticipate that intense competition will continue. If we are unable to compete effectively, our business, financial condition, and results of operations may be adversely affected.
 
Our growth plan may not be successful.
 
Depending on future economic conditions, we may not be able to open new restaurants in current or future fiscal years. Our ability to open and profitably operate new restaurants is subject to various risks such as the identification and availability of suitable and economically viable locations, the negotiation of acceptable terms for the purchase or lease of new locations, the need to obtain all required governmental permits (including zoning approvals) on a timely basis, the need to comply with other regulatory requirements, the availability of necessary contractors and subcontractors, the availability of construction materials and labor, the ability to meet construction schedules and budgets, the ability to manage union activities such as picketing or hand billing which could delay construction, increases in labor and building materials costs, the availability of financing at acceptable rates and terms, changes in weather or other acts of God that could result in construction delays and adversely affect the results of one or more restaurants for an indeterminate amount of time, our ability to hire and train qualified management personnel and general economic and business conditions. At each potential location, we compete with other restaurants and retail businesses for desirable development sites, construction contractors, management personnel, hourly employees and other resources.
 
If we are unable to successfully manage these risks, we could face increased costs and lower than anticipated revenues and earnings in future periods. We may be evaluating acquisitions or engaging in acquisition negotiations at any given time. We cannot be sure that we will be able to continue to identify acquisition candidates on commercially reasonable terms or at all. If we make additional acquisitions, we also cannot be sure that any benefits anticipated from the acquisition will actually be realized. Likewise, we cannot be sure that we will be able to obtain necessary financing for acquisitions. Such financing could be restricted by the terms of our debt agreements or it could be more expensive than our current debt. The amount of such debt financing for acquisitions could be significant and the terms of such debt instruments could be more restrictive than our current covenants. In addition, a prolonged economic downturn would adversely affect our ability to open new stores or upgrade existing units and we may not be able to maintain the existing number of restaurants in future fiscal years. We may not be able to renew existing leases and various other risks could cause a decline in the number of restaurants in future fiscal years, which could adversely affect our results of operations.


12



Non-performance under the debt covenants in our revolving credit facility could adversely affect our ability to respond to changes in our business.
 
On November 8, 2016, we refinanced our outstanding long-term debt of $37.0 million with a new senior secured $65.0 million credit agreement which includes a $35.0 million five-year term loan and an up to $30.0 million bank revolver. At the time of the refinancing, our long term debt balance was $42.0 million, of which $7.0 million was outstanding on our new bank revolver. Our debt covenants require certain minimum levels of financial performance as well as certain financial ratios. Our failure to comply with these covenants could result in an event of default that, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of our loans outstanding and affect our ability to refinance by the termination date of November 8, 2021. For a more detailed discussion of our credit agreement please review the footnotes to our financial statements located in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K.
Regional events can adversely affect our financial performance.
 
Many of our restaurants and franchises are located in Texas, California and in the northern United States. Our results of operations may be adversely affected by economic conditions in Texas, California or the northern United States or the occurrence of an event of terrorism or natural disaster in any of the communities in which we operate. Also, given our geographic concentration, negative publicity relating to our restaurants could have a pronounced adverse effect on our overall revenues. Although we generally maintain property and casualty insurance to protect against property damage caused by casualties and natural disasters, inclement weather, flooding, hurricanes, and other acts of God, these events can adversely impact our sales by discouraging potential customers from going out to eat or by rendering a restaurant or CCS location inoperable for a significant amount of time.
 
An increase in the minimum wage and regulatory mandates could adversely affect our financial performance.
 
From time to time, the U.S. Congress and state legislatures have increased and will consider increases in the minimum wage. The restaurant industry is intensely competitive, and if the minimum wage is increased, we may not be able to transfer all of the resulting increases in operating costs to our customers in the form of price increases. In addition, because our business is labor intensive, shortages in the labor pool or other inflationary pressure could increase labor costs that could adversely affect our results of operations.
 
We may be required to recognize additional impairment charges.
 
We assess our long-lived assets in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) and determine when they are impaired. Based on market conditions and operating results, we may be required to record additional impairment charges, which would reduce expected earnings for the periods in which they are recorded.
 
We may not be able to realize our deferred tax assets.
 
Our ability to realize our deferred tax assets is dependent on our ability to generate taxable income in the future. If we are unable to generate enough taxable income in the future, we may be required to adjust our valuation allowance related to our remaining net deferred tax assets which would reduce expected earnings for the periods in which they are recorded.
 
We may be harmed by security risks we face in connection with our electronic processing and transmission of confidential customer and employee information.
 
We accept electronic payment cards for payment in our restaurants. During fiscal 2017 , approximately 75% of our restaurant sales were attributable to credit and debit card transactions, and credit and debit card usage could continue to increase. A number of retailers have experienced actual or potential security breaches in which credit and debit card information may have been stolen, including a number of highly publicized incidents with well-known retailers in recent years.
 
We may in the future become subject to additional claims for purportedly fraudulent transactions arising out of the actual or alleged theft of credit or debit card information, and we may also be subject to lawsuits or other proceedings in the future relating to these types of incidents. Proceedings related to theft of credit or debit card information may be brought by payment card providers, banks and credit unions that issue cards, cardholders (either individually or as part of a class action lawsuit) and federal and state regulators. Any such proceedings could distract our management from running our business and cause us to incur significant unplanned losses and expenses. Consumer perception of our brand could also be negatively affected by these events, which could further adversely affect our results and prospects.


13



We also are required to collect and maintain personal information about our employees, and we collect information about customers as part of some of our marketing programs as well. The collection and use of such information is regulated at the federal and state levels, and the regulatory environment related to information security and privacy is increasingly demanding. At the same time, we are relying increasingly on cloud computing and other technologies that result in third parties holding significant amounts of customer or employee information on our behalf. If the security and information systems of ours or of outsourced third party providers we use to store or process such information are compromised or if we, or such third parties, otherwise fail to comply with these laws and regulations, we could face litigation and the imposition of penalties that could adversely affect our financial performance. Our reputation as a brand or as an employer could also be adversely affected from these types of security breaches or regulatory violations, which could impair our sales or ability to attract and keep qualified employees.
 
Labor shortages or increases in labor costs could adversely affect our business and results of operations and the pace of new restaurant openings.
 
Our success depends in part upon our ability to attract, motivate and retain a sufficient number of qualified employees, including regional managers, restaurant general managers and chefs, in a manner consistent with our standards and expectations. Qualified individuals that we need to fill these positions are in short supply and competition for these employees is intense. If we are unable to recruit and retain sufficient qualified individuals, our operations and reputation could be adversely affected. Additionally, competition for qualified employees could require us to pay higher wages, which could result in higher labor costs. Any increase in labor costs could adversely affect our results of operations.
  
If we are unable to anticipate and react to changes in food, utility and other costs, our results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
 
Many of the food and beverage products we purchase are affected by commodity pricing, and as such, are subject to price volatility caused by production problems, shortages, weather or other factors outside of our control. Our profitability depends, in part, on our successfully anticipating and reacting to changes in the prices of commodities. Therefore, we enter into purchase commitments with suppliers when we believe that it is advantageous for us to do so. If commodity prices were to increase, we may be forced to absorb the additional costs rather than transfer these increases to our customers in the form of menu price increases. Our success also depends, in part, on our ability to absorb increases in utility costs. Our operating results are affected by fluctuations in the price of utilities. Our inability to anticipate and respond effectively to an adverse change in any of these factors could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
 
Our business is subject to extensive federal, state and local laws and regulations.
 
The restaurant industry is subject to extensive federal, state and local laws and regulations. We are also subject to licensing and regulation by state and local authorities relating to health, healthcare, employee medical plans, sanitation, safety and fire standards, building codes and liquor licenses, federal and state laws governing our relationships with employees (including the Fair Labor Standards Act and applicable minimum wage requirements, overtime, unemployment tax rates, family leave, tip credits, working conditions, safety standards, healthcare and citizenship requirements), federal and state laws which prohibit discrimination, potential healthcare benefits legislative mandates, and other laws regulating the design and operation of facilities, such as the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990.
  
As a publicly traded corporation, we are subject to various rules and regulations as mandated by the SEC and the NYSE. Failure to timely comply with these rules and regulations could result in penalties and negative publicity.
 
We are subject to federal regulation and certain state laws which govern the offer and sale of franchises. Many state franchise laws contain provisions that supersede the terms of franchise agreements, including provisions concerning the termination or non-renewal of a franchise. Some state franchise laws require that certain materials be registered before franchises can be offered or sold in that state. The failure to obtain or retain licenses or approvals to sell franchises could adversely affect us and the franchisees.

14



 
Termination of franchise agreements may disrupt restaurant performance.
 
Our franchise agreements are subject to termination by us in the event of default by the franchisee after applicable cure periods. Upon the expiration of the initial term of a franchise agreement, the franchisee generally has an option to renew the franchise agreement for an additional term. There is no assurance that franchisees will meet the criteria for renewal or will desire or be able to renew their franchise agreements. If not renewed, a franchise agreement, and payments required there under, will terminate. We may be unable to find a new franchisee to replace a non-renewing franchisee. Furthermore, while we will be entitled to terminate franchise agreements following a default that is not cured within the applicable grace period, if any, the disruption to the performance of the restaurants could adversely affect our business and revenues.

Franchisees may breach the terms of their franchise agreements in a manner that adversely affects the reputation of our brands.
 
Franchisees are required to conform to specified product quality standards and other requirements pursuant to their franchise agreements in order to protect our brands and to optimize restaurant performance. However, franchisees may receive through the supply chain or produce sub-standard food or beverage products, which may adversely impact the reputation of our brands. Franchisees may also breach the standards set forth in their respective franchise agreements. Any negative actions could have a corresponding material adverse effect on our business and revenues.
 
We might not fully realize the benefits from the acquisition of Cheeseburger in Paradise.
 
On December 6, 2012, we completed the acquisition of all the Membership Units of Paradise Restaurants Group, LLC and certain of their affiliates, collectively known as Cheeseburger in Paradise. The integration of the 23 Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants into our operations presented significant difficulties and did not result in realization of the full benefits of synergies, cost savings and operational efficiencies that we expected. We closed 15 locations in fiscal 2014. We converted several closed Cheeseburger in Paradise locations to Fuddruckers and continue to consider this as an alternative for remaining closed locations. As of November 7, 2017 we continue to operate 7 locations as Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants.
 
Our planned CCS expansion may not be successful.
 
Successful expansion of our CCS operations depends on our ability to obtain new clients as well as retain and renew our existing client contracts. Our ability to do so generally depends on a variety of factors, including the quality, price and responsiveness of our services, as well as our ability to market these services effectively and differentiate ourselves from our competitors. We may not be able to renew existing client contracts at the same or higher rates or our current clients may turn to competitors, cease operations, or elect to self-operate or terminate contracts with us. The failure to renew a significant number of our existing contracts could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
 
Failure to collect account receivables could adversely affect our results of operations.
 
A portion of our accounts receivable is concentrated in our CCS operations among several customers. In addition, our franchises generate significant accounts receivables. Failure to collect from several of these accounts receivable could adversely affect our results of operations.
  
If we lose the services of any of our key management personnel, our business could suffer.
 
The success of our business is highly dependent upon our key management personnel, particularly Christopher J. Pappas, our President and Chief Executive Officer, and Peter Tropoli, our Chief Operating Officer. The loss of the services of any key management personnel could have a material adverse effect upon our business.
 
Our business is subject to seasonal fluctuations, and, as a result, our results of operations for any given quarter may not be indicative of the results that may be achieved for the full fiscal year.
 
Our business is subject to seasonal fluctuations. Historically, our highest earnings have occurred in the third quarter of the fiscal year, as our revenues in most of our restaurants have typically been higher during the third quarter of the fiscal year. Similarly, our results of operations for any single quarter will not necessarily be indicative of the results that may be achieved for a full fiscal year.
 

15



Economic factors affecting financial institutions could affect our access to capital.
 
We refinanced our 2013 Credit Facility on November 8, 2016 to a new senior secured credit agreement and it matures on November 8, 2021. We may not be able to amend or renew the new facility with terms and conditions favorable to our operating needs.
We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual property, which could harm the value of our brands and adversely affect our business.
 
Our ability to successfully implement our business plan depends in part on our ability to further build brand recognition using our trademarks, service marks, trade dress and other proprietary intellectual property, including our name and logos, and the unique ambience of our restaurants. If our efforts to protect our intellectual property are inadequate, or if any third party misappropriates or infringes on our intellectual property, either in print or on the internet, the value of our brands may be harmed, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and might prevent our brands from achieving or maintaining market acceptance. We may also encounter claims from prior users of similar intellectual property in areas where we operate or intend to conduct operations. This could harm our image, brand or competitive position and cause us to incur significant penalties and costs. 
 
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
 
None.
 
Item 2. Properties
 
As of November 7, 2017 , we operated 163 restaurants at 157 property locations. Six of the operating locations are Combo locations and are considered two restaurants. Luby’s Cafeterias have seating capacity for 250 to 300 customers at each location while Fuddruckers locations generally seat 125 to 200 customers and Cheeseburger in Paradise locations generally seat 180 to 220.
 
We own the underlying land and buildings on which 65 of our Luby’s Cafeteria and 22 of our Fuddruckers restaurants are located. Four of these restaurant properties contain excess building space or an extra building on the property which have 9 tenants unaffiliated with Luby’s, Inc.
 
In addition to the owned locations, 23 Luby’s Cafeteria restaurants, 46 Fuddruckers restaurants, and 7 Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants are held under 75 leases. The majority of the leases are fixed-dollar rentals, which require us to pay additional amounts related to property taxes, hazard insurance, and maintenance of common areas. Of the 75 restaurant leases, the current terms of five expire in less than one year, 51 expire between one and five years, and 19 expire thereafter. Additionally, 62 leases can be extended beyond their current terms at our option.
 
As of November 7, 2017 , we have one leased property we plan to develop for future use.
 
As of November 7, 2017 , we had four owned non-operating properties with a carrying value of approximately $3.4 million in continuing operations recorded in property held for sale. In addition, we had one owned property with a carrying value of approximately $1.9 million and we had one leased property with a carrying value of zero , that are included in assets related to discontinued operations.
 
We currently have one owned other-use property which is used as a bake shop supporting our operating restaurants.
 
We also have four leased locations that have two third party tenants and three Fuddruckers franchisees.
 
Our corporate office is located on the Northwest Freeway in Houston, Texas in close proximity to many of our Houston restaurant locations. We negotiated a new lease in December 2016 and reduced the amount of office space from approximately 31,000 square feet to approximately 26,000 square feet. The new lease has a 5-year term.
 
We also lease approximately 60,000 square feet of warehouse space for in-house repair, fabrication and storage in Houston, Texas. In addition, we lease approximately 630 square feet of office space in Farmers Branch, Texas and an executive suite in North Andover, MA where we have additional legal personnel.
 
We maintain general liability insurance and property damage insurance on all properties in amounts which management believes provide adequate coverage.

16




Item 3. Legal Proceedings
 
From time to time, we are subject to various private lawsuits, administrative proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of our business. A number of these lawsuits, proceedings and claims may exist at any given time. These matters typically involve claims from guests, employees and others related to issues common to the restaurant industry. We currently believe that the final disposition of these types of lawsuits, proceedings, and claims will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity. It is possible, however, that our future results of operations for a particular fiscal quarter or fiscal year could be impacted by changes in circumstances relating to lawsuits, proceedings, or claims.
 
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
 
Not applicable.



17



PART II
 
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
 
Stock Prices
 
Our common stock is traded on the NYSE under the symbol “LUB.” The following table sets forth, for the last two fiscal years, the high and low sales prices on the NYSE as reported in the consolidated transaction reporting system.
 
Fiscal Quarter Ended
 
High
 
Low
December 16, 2015
 
5.21

 
4.26

March 9, 2016
 
5.01

 
3.71

June 1, 2016
 
5.10

 
4.61

August 31, 2016
 
5.10

 
4.47

December 21, 2016
 
4.50

 
4.03

March 15, 2017
 
4.33

 
3.30

June 7, 2017
 
3.41

 
2.46

August 30, 2017
 
3.12

 
2.63

 
As of November 7, 2017 , there were 2,028 holders of record of our common stock. No cash dividends have been paid on our common stock since fiscal 2000, and we currently have no intention to pay a cash dividend on our common stock. On November 7, 2017 , the closing price of our common stock on the NYSE was $2.37 .
 

18




Equity Compensation Plans
 
Securities authorized under our equity compensation plans as of August 30, 2017 , were as follows:
 
 
 
(a)
 
(b)
 
(c)
Plan Category
 
Number of
Securities   to be
Issued Upon
Exercise of
Outstanding
Options,
Warrants and
Rights
 
Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding
Options,
Warrants and
Rights
 
Number of
Securities
Remaining
Available for
Future Issuance
Under Equity
Compensation
Plans Excluding
Securities
Reflected in
Column (a)
Equity compensation plans previously approved by security holders
 
872,216

 
$
4.74

 
1,774,104

Equity compensation plans not previously approved by security holders (1)
 
29,627

 
0

 
0

Total
 
901,843

 
$
4.62

 
1,774,104

(1)  Represents the Luby’s, Inc. Nonemployee Director Phantom Stock Plan.
 
See Note 14, “Share-Based Compensation,” to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report.
 
The following graph compares the cumulative total stockholder return on our common stock for the five fiscal years ended August 30, 2017 , with the cumulative total return on the S&P SmallCap 600 Index and an industry peer group index. The peer group index consists of Bob Evans Farms, Inc., CBRL Group, Inc., Darden Restaurants, Inc., Denny’s Corporation, Diversified Restaurant Holdings, Inc., Red Robin Gourmet Burgers as well as Ruby Tuesday Inc. These companies are multi-unit family and casual dining restaurant operators in the mid-price range.

The cumulative total shareholder return computations set forth in the performance graph assume an investment of $100 on August 30, 2012, and the reinvestment of all dividends. The returns of each company in the peer group index have been weighed according to that company’s stock market capitalization.

19



LUB_83017XFXCHART-10753.JPG

 
 
 
2012
 
2013
 
2014
 
2015
 
2016
 
2017
Luby’s, Inc.
 
100.00

 
114.90

 
85.90

 
73.85

 
71.32

 
41.84

S&P 500 Index—Total Return
 
100.00

 
118.51

 
148.01

 
146.55

 
167.69

 
193.80

S&P 500 Restaurant Index
 
100.00

 
119.55

 
130.46

 
152.63

 
168.63

 
202.23

New Peer Group Index Only
 
100.00

 
111.76

 
114.22

 
162.72

 
161.69

 
207.48

New Peer Group Index + Luby’s, Inc.
 
100.00

 
111.81

 
113.76

 
161.23

 
160.18

 
204.50

Old Peer Group
 
100.00

 
111.76

 
114.64

 
164.37

 
163.74

 
209.95

Old Peer Group Index + Luby's, Inc.
 
100.00

 
111.81

 
114.17

 
162.83

 
162.16

 
206.88



20



Item  6. Selected Financial Data
 
FIVE-YEAR SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS
 
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended
 
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
August 26, 2015
 
August 27, 2014
 
August 29, 2013
 
 
(364 days)
 
(371 days)
 
(364 days)
 
(364 days)
 
(364 days)
 
 
(In thousands, except per share data)
Sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restaurant sales
 
$
350,818

 
$
378,111

 
$
370,192

 
$
369,808

 
$
361,291

Culinary contract services
 
17,943

 
16,695

 
16,401

 
18,555

 
16,693

Franchise revenue
 
6,723

 
7,250

 
6,961

 
7,027

 
6,937

Vending revenue
 
547

 
583

 
531

 
532

 
565

Total sales
 
376,031

 
402,639

 
394,085

 
395,922

 
385,486

Provision for asset impairments and restaurant closings
 
10,567

 
1,442

 
636

 
2,717

 
615

Income (loss) from continuing operations
 
(22,796
)
 
(10,256
)
 
(1,616
)
 
(2,011
)
 
4,479

Loss from discontinued operations (1)
 
(466
)
 
(90
)
 
(458
)
 
(1,436
)
 
(1,318
)
Net income (loss)
 
$
(23,262
)
 
$
(10,346
)
 
$
(2,074
)
 
$
(3,447
)
 
$
3,161

Income (loss) per share from continuing operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
$
(0.77
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.05
)
 
$
(0.06
)
 
$
0.16

Assuming dilution
 
$
(0.77
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.05
)
 
$
(0.06
)
 
$
0.16

Loss per share from discontinued operation:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.00
)
 
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.06
)
 
$
(0.05
)
Assuming dilution
 
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.00
)
 
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.06
)
 
$
(0.05
)
Net income (loss) per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
$
(0.79
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.07
)
 
$
(0.12
)
 
$
0.11

Assuming dilution
 
$
(0.79
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.07
)
 
$
(0.12
)
 
$
0.11

Weighted-average shares outstanding:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
29,476

 
29,226

 
28,974

 
28,812

 
28,618

Assuming dilution
 
29,476

 
29,226

 
28,974

 
28,812

 
28,866

Total assets
 
$
226,457

 
$
252,225

 
$
264,258

 
$
275,435

 
$
250,645

Total debt
 
$
30,985

 
$
37,000

 
$
37,500

 
$
42,000

 
$
19,200

Number of restaurants at fiscal year end
 
167

 
175

 
177

 
174

 
180

Number of franchised restaurants at fiscal year end
 
113

 
113

 
106

 
110

 
116

Number of Culinary Contract Services contracts at fiscal year end
 
25

 
24

 
23

 
25

 
21

Costs and Expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(As a percentage of restaurant sales)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of food
 
28.1
%
 
28.9
%
 
28.9
%
 
28.6
%
 
27.9
%
Payroll and related costs
 
35.9
%
 
34.5
%
 
34.3
%
 
34.1
%
 
34.3
%
Other operating expenses
 
17.7
%
 
17.1
%
 
16.8
%
 
16.4
%
 
15.4
%
Occupancy costs
 
6.2
%
 
5.7
%
 
6.0
%
 
6.0
%
 
5.9
%
(1) For comparison purposes, fiscal 2013 results have been adjusted to reflect the reclassification of certain Cheeseburger in Paradise leasehold locations to discontinued operations. See Note 11 to our consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 in this Form 10-K for further discussion of discontinued operations.


21



Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Management’s discussion and analysis of the financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and footnotes for the fiscal years ended August 30, 2017 (“fiscal 2017 ”), August 31, 2016 , (“fiscal 2016 ”), and August 26, 2015 (“fiscal 2015 ”) included in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

The table on the following page sets forth selected operating data as a percentage of total revenues (unless otherwise noted) for the periods indicated. All information is derived from the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Percentages may not add due to rounding.
 

22



 
 
Fiscal   Year Ended
 
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
August 26,
2015
 
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
Restaurant sales
 
93.3
 %
 
93.9
 %
 
93.9
 %
Culinary contract services
 
4.8
 %
 
4.1
 %
 
4.2
 %
Franchise revenue
 
1.8
 %
 
1.8
 %
 
1.8
 %
Vending revenue
 
0.1
 %
 
0.1
 %
 
0.1
 %
TOTAL SALES
 
100.0
 %
 
100.0
 %
 
100.0
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
STORE COSTS AND EXPENSES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
(As a percentage of restaurant sales)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of food
 
28.1
 %
 
28.3
 %
 
28.9
 %
Payroll and related costs
 
35.9
 %
 
35.2
 %
 
34.5
 %
Other operating expenses
 
17.7
 %
 
16.1
 %
 
17.1
 %
Occupancy costs
 
6.2
 %
 
5.9
 %
 
5.7
 %
Vending revenue
 
(0.2
)%
 
(0.2
)%
 
(0.1
)%
Store level profit
 
12.2
 %
 
14.7
 %
 
14.0
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COMPANY COSTS AND EXPENSES (as a percentage of total sales)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Opening costs
 
0.1
 %
 
0.2
 %
 
0.7
 %
Depreciation and amortization
 
5.4
 %
 
5.4
 %
 
5.4
 %
Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
10.1
 %
 
10.5
 %
 
9.8
 %
Provision for asset impairments and restaurant closings
 
3.0
 %
 
0.4
 %
 
0.2
 %
Net gain on disposition of property and equipment
 
(0.5
)%
 
(0.2
)%
 
(1.1
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Culinary Contract Services Costs (as a percentage of Culinary contract services sales)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of culinary contract services
 
87.9
 %
 
89.6
 %
 
90.2
 %
Culinary income
 
12.1
 %
 
10.4
 %
 
9.8
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Franchise Operations Costs (as a percentage of   Franchise revenue)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of franchise operations
 
25.8
 %
 
25.9
 %
 
24.0
 %
Franchise income
 
74.2
 %
 
74.1
 %
 
76.0
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(As a percentage of total sales)
 
 
 
 
 
 
LOSS FROM OPERATIONS
 
(4.6
)%
 
(0.8
)%
 
(0.2
)%
Interest income
 
0.0
 %
 
0.0
 %
 
0.0
 %
Interest expense
 
(0.6
)%
 
(0.6
)%
 
(0.6
)%
Other income (expense), net
 
(0.1
)%
 
0.0
 %
 
0.1
 %
Loss before income taxes and discontinued operations
 
(5.3
)%
 
(1.4
)%
 
(0.7
)%
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
 
0.6
 %
 
1.2
 %
 
(0.3
)%
Loss from continuing operations
 
(5.9
)%
 
(2.6
)%
 
(0.4
)%
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
 
(0.1
)%
 
0.0
 %
 
(0.1
)%
NET LOSS
 
(6.0
)%
 
(2.6
)%
 
(0.5
)%


23



Although store level profit, defined as restaurant sales plus vending revenue less cost of food, payroll and related costs, other operating expenses, and occupancy costs is a non-GAAP measure, we believe its presentation is useful because it explicitly shows the results of our most significant reportable segment. The following table reconciles between store level profit, a non-GAAP measure to loss from continuing operations, a GAAP measure:
 
 
 
Fiscal   Year Ended
 
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
August 26, 2015
 
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
 
(In thousands)
Store level profit
 
$
42,943

 
$
55,419

 
$
51,763

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Plus:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales from culinary contract services
 
17,943

 
16,695

 
16,401

Sales from franchise operations
 
6,723

 
7,250

 
6,961

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Less:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Opening costs
 
492

 
787

 
2,743

Cost of culinary contract services
 
15,774

 
14,955

 
14,786

Cost of franchise operations
 
1,733

 
1,877

 
1,668

Depreciation and amortization
 
20,438

 
21,889

 
21,407

Selling, general and administrative expenses (1)
 
37,878

 
42,422

 
38,759

Provision for asset impairments and restaurant closings
 
10,567

 
1,442

 
636

Net gain on disposition of property and equipment
 
(1,804
)
 
(684
)
 
(3,994
)
Interest income
 
(8
)
 
(4
)
 
(4
)
Interest expense
 
2,443

 
2,247

 
2,337

Other income (expense), net
 
454

 
(186
)
 
(521
)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
 
2,438

 
4,875

 
(1,076
)
Loss from continuing operations
 
$
(22,796
)
 
$
(10,256
)
 
$
(1,616
)
(1) Marketing and advertising expense included in Selling, general and administrative expenses was $5.1 million $5.6 million , and $3.2 million in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively
 
The following table shows our restaurant unit count as of August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016 .
 
Restaurant Counts:  
 
 
Fiscal 2017 Year Begin
 
Fiscal 2017 Openings
 
Fiscal 2017 Closings
 
Fiscal 2017 Year End
Luby’s Cafeterias (1)
 
91

 

 
(3
)
 
88

Fuddruckers Restaurants (1)
 
75

 
1

 
(5
)
 
71

Cheeseburger in Paradise
 
8

 

 

 
8

Other restaurants (2)
 
1

 

 
(1
)
 

Total
 
175

 
1

 
(9
)
 
167

   
 (1) Includes 6 restaurants that are part of Combo locations
(2) Other restaurants include one Bob Luby’s Seafood which closed in fiscal 2017


24



Overview
 
Description of the business
 
We generate revenues primarily by providing quality food to customers at our 88 Luby’s branded restaurants located mostly in Texas, 71 Fuddruckers restaurants located throughout the United States, 8 Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants primarily located in the eastern United States, and 113 Fuddruckers franchises located primarily in the United States. In addition to our restaurant business model, we also provide culinary contract services for organizations that offer on-site food service, such as healthcare facilities, colleges and universities, sports stadiums, businesses and institutions, as well as sales through retail grocery outlets.
 
Business Strategy
 
In fiscal 2017 , much of our strategic focus concentrated on further enhancing the guest experience at each of our restaurant brands, growing our Fuddruckers franchise network, and building our pipeline for new business within our Culinary Contract Services business segment.

At our Company-owned restaurants, we focused on menu innovation and variety across the weeks and the seasons. We furthered our efforts in attracting and retaining the most talented individuals to serve and engage with our guests in both restaurant management roles and front-line hourly restaurant team member roles. We also enhanced our culinary team with additional resources so that we are positioned to vigorously pursue culinary innovation enhancements going forward. Our marketing initiatives centered around developing an even better understanding of our guests by focusing on the total guest experience and deploying technology to improve and personalize the experience. Technology deployed includes mobile ordering, third-party delivery aggregators, self-order abilities in the restaurants, and early stage development of a digital loyalty and recognition program. We have also engaged an outside consultancy firm to help us craft the next phase of our loyalty and recognition programs for all our brands. We continue to make these investments as part of our long-term strategy to increase our brand awareness and motivate new and more frequent guest visits. As we evaluated our portfolio of restaurant locations, we closed nine restaurants so that resources could be focused on the locations that exhibit the most promise for enhanced profitability. Over the long term, our strategy is to continue to refine our restaurant protoype design and build new restaurants in markets where we believe we can achieve superior restaurant cash flows.

In fiscal 2017 , our Fuddruckers franchise business segment continued supporting our loyal franchisees and developing our franchisee pipeline both domestically and internationally. In addition, we continue to pursue opportunities to re-franchise company-owned Fuddruckers locations as part of our strategy to grow franchise revenues. Our Culinary Contract Services segment continues its focus on expanding the number of locations that we serve and developing business partnerships for the long-term, while servicing our existing agreements with our customized and high-level of client service. We are working to ensure that we have the right corporate headcount and overhead to support each of our business segments while balancing our corporate overhead costs: on this front, we made significant strides in reducing overhead costs, including reduced headcount, corporate travel expense, and associated other overhead costs.


25



Financial and Operation Highlights for Fiscal 2017
 
Financial Performance

Total company sales decreased approximately $26.6 million , or 6.6% , in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 , consisting primarily of an approximate $27.3 million decrease in restaurant sales, an approximate $1.2 million increase in Culinary contract services sales, an approximate $0.5 million decrease in franchise revenue, and a less than $0.1 million decrease in vending revenue. The decrease in restaurant sales included an approximate $14.9 million decrease in sales at stand-alone Luby's Cafeterias, an approximate $8.3 million decrease in sales at stand-alone Fuddruckers restaurants, an approximate $1.8 million decrease at sales from our Combo locations, and an approximate $2.2 million decrease in sales from Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants. The approximate $27.3 million decrease in total restaurant sales reflects comparison to fiscal 2016 which included one additional week of operations. Fiscal 2017 was comprised of the typical 52 weeks compared to fiscal 2016 which was comprised of 53 weeks. The additional week of operations in fiscal 2016 generated approximately $6.7 million in restaurant sales in that year. Total restaurant sales declined approximately $4.2 million related to eight restaurants that closed in fiscal 2017 .

Total segment profit decreased approximately $12.4 million to approximately $50.1 million in fiscal 2017 compared to approximately $62.5 million in fiscal 2016 . The approximate $12.4 million decrease in total segment profit resulted from a decrease of approximately $12.5 million in Company-owned restaurant segment profit, an approximate $0.4 million decrease in franchise segment profit, partially offset by an approximate $0.4 million increase in Culinary contract services segment profit. The approximate $12.5 million decrease in Company-owned restaurant segment profit resulted from restaurant sales and vending income decreasing approximately $27.3 million with the cost of food, payroll and related costs, other operating expenses, and occupancy costs decreasing approximately $14.8 million.

Loss before income taxes and discontinued operations included non-cash charges for asset impairments and restaurant closings of approximately $10.6 million and approximately $1.4 million in fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016 , respectively. Net loss included non-tax charges for deferred tax asset valuation allowance increases of approximately $9.5 million and $6.9 million in fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016 , respectively.

The loss from continuing operations was approximately $22.8 million in fiscal 2017 compared to a loss of approximately $10.3 million in fiscal 2016 .

 
  Operational Endeavors and Milestones

Core restaurant brands. Our core Luby’s Cafeteria and Fuddruckers brands continued to develop and evolve. While our core menu remains stable at our Luby’s Cafeterias, we continue to invest in menu innovation and menu variety. We have introduced new seasonal menu offerings throughout the year that showcase our 70-year history of "made-from-scratch" cooking expertise. Our guests are presented with new offerings at each section of the cafeteria line: fresh colorful vegetable presentations, expanded and refreshed cold sides, and new recipes and presentations for carved turkey, roast beef, salmon, and chicken. We introduce and rotate new menu offerings throughout the year to remain relevant to both our existing customer base and attract new customers. In fiscal 2017 , we also continued to promote our "made-from-scratch" cooking with many locally-sourced “from the farm” ingredients at our Luby’s Cafeterias with our “The Luby’s Way” slogan. “The Luby’s Way” signifies that we are dedicated to serving our guests only the best hand-crafted recipes, prepared fresh each day in our kitchens. We support local farmers and use only the freshest produce and highest quality ingredients. From a marketing and promotion standpoint, we initiated steps to gain an even better understanding of our guests and laid the groundwork for leveraging technology to improve and personalize the guest experience. We will be using these insights to refine our brand positioning strategies going forward. In fiscal 2017 , we significantly reduced our usage of discounting as an incentive to drive guest traffic, focusing our efforts on delivering everyday value and operational excellence.


26



At Fuddruckers, we continue to evolve the World’s Greatest Hamburgers ® , with new specialty burger combinations and toppings and expanded offerings beyond the core hamburger. In fiscal 2017 , we continued our enhanced guest service program whereby a designated restaurant employee engages guests throughout the dining room and ensures that all elements of the dining experience occur at our high standards. We continued to focus on speed of service and an enhanced ordering experience. To elevate the Fuddruckers brand, we continued to partner with the Houston Texans National Football League team, which has provided Fuddruckers with increased media mentions and exposure to past, present, and future customers. We furthered our use of technology to reach our guests utilizing new digital media campaigns and targeted advertising to guests' mobile devices. In addition, for the first time with the Fuddruckers brand, we are featuring self-ordering stations (in addition to traditional cashier-led points of sale) at three test restaurant locations in Houston. These self-ordering stations enhance the guest experience by allowing the guest to bypass the traditional ordering queue. We continued to measure guest satisfaction through a number of survey and other guest interactions that helped us identify areas of excellence and areas for improvement. We are confident the focus on great food and enhanced service will in the long run lead to increased guest frequency and loyalty.

Franchise Network. As of August 30, 2017 , we supported a franchise network of 113 Fuddruckers franchise locations with an additional 76 locations under development agreements. For fiscal 2017 , our franchisees opened eight new Fuddruckers restaurants. Four of the opened locations were in the United States, one in Panama, one in Colombia, one in the Dominican Republic, and one in Canada. For fiscal 2017 , there were eight Fuddruckers franchise locations that closed as franchise-operated restaurants. Our franchise network generated approximately $6.7 million in revenue in fiscal 2017 .

Culinary Contract Services. Our Culinary Contract Services segment generated approximately $17.9 million in revenue during fiscal 2017 compared to approximately $16.7 million in revenue during fiscal 2016 . The approximate $1.2 million increase in revenue was primarily due to the opening of higher sales-volume locations replacing lower sales-volume locations that ceased operations. We view this area as a long-term growth business that generally requires less capital investment and produces favorable percentage returns on invested capital.

Cheeseburger in Paradise Location Strategy. At Cheeseburger in Paradise, we initiated a strategic plan in fiscal 2014 to revitalize the brand and improve results that included closing under-performing units, converting certain locations to Fuddruckers, and launching initiatives to improve restaurant performance at the remaining units. As of our fiscal year-end 2017 , we operated eight of the original Cheeseburger in Paradise locations. Thirteen of the remaining locations were either converted to Fuddruckers that we operate, sub-leased to Fuddruckers franchisees which they operate, or the lease was terminated. Two locations remain slated for possible conversion to Fuddruckers. Subsequent to the end of fiscal year 2017, we elected to close one Cheeseburger in Paradise location. As of November 7, 2017 , we operate seven Cheeseburger in Paradise locations.

New Restaurant Openings. In fiscal 2017 , we opened one Fuddruckers restaurant north of Houston, Texas. At this location, we introduced the first self-ordering stations to offer guests an additional method of ordering the "World's Greatest Hamburger ® ".

Capital Spending. Purchases of property and equipment were approximately $12.5 million in fiscal 2017 , down from approximately $18.3 million in fiscal 2016 . These capital investments were funded through a combination of cash from operations, sale of property, and utilization of our revolving credit facility. Capital investments in fiscal  2017  included (1) approximately $1.1 million on new restaurant development; (2) approximately $4.5 million on the remodeling of existing restaurants and technology infrastructure investments; and (3) approximately $6.9 million for recurring capital expenditures. Our debt balance at the end of fiscal 2017 was approximately $31.0 million . We remain committed to maintaining the attractiveness of all of our restaurant locations where we anticipate operating over the long term. In fiscal 2018 , we anticipate making capital investments of up to $12 million, excluding the purchase of land, for recurring maintenance of all of our restaurant properties, for point of sale hardware associated with our technology infrastructure, and to fund our on-going remodeling program.
 
Our long-term plan continues to focus on expanding each of our core brands, including the Fuddruckers franchise network, as well as growing our culinary contract service business. We are also committed to reducing our debt balances and making capital investments with suitable return characteristics. We plan to use cash generated from operations, combined with our borrowing capacity, when necessary, in order to seize these capital investment opportunities. We believe our operational execution has improved through our commitment to higher operating standards, and we believe that we are well-positioned to enhance shareholder value over the long term.
 

27



Accounting Periods
 
Our fiscal year ends on the last Wednesday in August. Accordingly, each fiscal year normally consists of 13 four-week periods, or accounting periods, accounting for 364 days in the aggregate. However, every fifth or sixth year, we have a fiscal year that consists of 53 weeks, accounting for 371 days in the aggregate. Fiscal year 2016 is such a year that contained 53 weeks, accounting for 371 days in the aggregate. In fiscal year 2015, and prior, each of the first three quarters of each fiscal year consisted of three four-week periods, while the fourth quarter normally consisted of four four-week periods. Beginning in fiscal 2016, the first quarter consisted of four four-week periods, while the last three quarters normally consist of three four-week periods. However, fiscal 2016 is a fiscal year consisting of 53 weeks, accounting for 371 days in the aggregate. As such, the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016 contained one five-week period, resulting in a 13-week fourth quarter, or 91 days in the aggregate. Comparability between quarters may be affected by the varying lengths of the quarters, as well as the seasonality associated with the restaurant business.
 
Same-Store Sales
 
The restaurant business is highly competitive with respect to food quality, concept, location, price, and service, all of which may have an effect on same-store sales. Our same-store sales calculation measures the relative performance of a certain group of restaurants. A store is included in this group of restaurants after it has been open for six complete consecutive quarters. Stores that close on a permanent basis (or on a temporary basis for remodeling) are removed from the group in the fiscal quarter when operations cease at the restaurant, but remain in the same-store group for previously reported fiscal quarters. Although management believes this approach leads to more effective year-over-year comparisons, neither the time frame nor the exact practice may be similar to those used by other restaurant companies. Same-store sales at our restaurant units decreased 3.4% for fiscal 2017 , increased 0.7% for fiscal 2016 , and increased 0.5% for fiscal 2015.
 
The following table shows the same-store sales change for comparative historical quarters:
 
 
 
Fiscal 2017
 
Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal 2015
Increase (Decrease)
 
Q4

 
Q3

 
Q2

 
Q1

 
Q4

 
Q3

 
Q2

 
Q1

 
Q4

 
Q3

 
Q2

 
Q1

Same-store sales
 
(5.1
)%
 
(2.7
)%
 
(3.8
)%
 
(2.3
)%
 
(0.5
)%
 
(0.6
)%
 
2.2
%
 
1.4
%
 
0.7
%
 
(1.1
)%
 
2.5
%
 
(0.1
)%
 
Discontinued Operations
 
On March 24, 2014, the Company announced that it has initiated a plan focused on improving cash flow from the acquired Cheeseburger in Paradise leasehold units. This underperforming Cheeseburger in Paradise leasehold disposal plan called for five or more locations to be closed by the end of fiscal 2014. In accordance with the plan, the entire fiscal activity of the applicable locations closed after the inception of the plan has been classified as discontinued operations. Results related to these same locations have also been classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 
 
Fiscal 2017 ( 52 weeks) compared to Fiscal 2016 ( 53 weeks) and Fiscal 2015 ( 52 weeks)
 
Sales  
 
Fiscal Year 2017 Ended
 
Fiscal Year 2016 Ended
 
Fiscal 2017 vs Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal Year 2015 Ended
 
Fiscal 2016 vs Fiscal 2015
($000s)
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
August 26, 2015
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 vs 53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 vs 52 weeks)
Restaurant sales
$
350,818

 
$
378,111

 
(7.2
)%
 
$
370,192

 
2.1
%
Culinary contract services
17,943

 
16,695

 
7.5
 %
 
16,401

 
1.8
%
Franchise revenue
6,723

 
7,250

 
(7.3
)%
 
6,961

 
4.2
%
Vending revenue
547

 
583

 
(6.2
)%
 
531

 
9.8
%
TOTAL SALES
$
376,031

 
$
402,639

 
(6.6
)%
 
$
394,085

 
2.2
%
 

28



Total company sales decreased approximately $26.6 million , or 6.6% , in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 , consisting primarily of an approximate $27.3 million decrease in restaurant sales, an approximate $1.2 million increase in Culinary contract services sales, an approximate $0.5 million decrease in franchise revenue, and less than a $0.1 million decrease in vending revenue. Fiscal 2016 contained one additional week of operations during which approximately $6.7 million in restaurant sales were generated and approximately $7.1 million in total sales were generated.
 
Total company sales increased approximately $8.6 million , or 2.2% , in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 , consisting primarily of an approximate $7.9 million increase in restaurant sales, an approximate $0.3 million increase in franchise revenue, an approximate $0.3 million increase in Culinary contract service sales, and a less than $0.1 million increase in vending revenue. Fiscal 2016 contained one additional week of operations during which approximately $6.7 million in restaurant sales were generated and approximately $7.1 million in total sales were generated.
 
The Company operates with three reportable operating segments: Company-owned Restaurants, Franchise Operations, and Culinary Contract Services.
 
Company-Owned Restaurants
 
Restaurant Sales  
Restaurant Brand
Fiscal Year 2017 Ended
 
Fiscal Year 2016 Ended
 
Fiscal 2017 vs Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal Year 2015 Ended
 
Fiscal 2016 vs Fiscal 2015
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
August 26, 2015
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 vs 53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 vs 52 weeks)
Luby’s Cafeterias
$
214,976

 
$
229,880

 
(6.5
)%
 
$
226,970

 
1.3
 %
Fuddruckers Restaurants
98,115

 
106,456

 
(7.8
)%
 
101,290

 
5.1
 %
Combo locations
21,304

 
23,107

 
(7.8
)%
 
23,734

 
(2.6
)%
Cheeseburger in Paradise
16,423

 
18,668

 
(12.0
)%
 
18,198

 
2.6
 %
Restaurant Sales
$
350,818

 
$
378,111

 
(7.2
)%
 
$
370,192

 
2.1
 %
 
Total restaurant sales decreased approximately $27.3 million in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 . The decrease in restaurant sales included an approximate $14.9 million decrease in sales at stand-alone Luby’s Cafeterias, an approximate $8.3 million decrease in sales at stand-alone Fuddruckers restaurants, an approximate $1.8 million decrease in sales from Combo locations, and an approximate $2.2 million decrease at sales from our Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants. The approximate $27.3 million decrease in total restaurant sales reflects comparison to fiscal 2016 which included one additional week of operations. Fiscal 2017 was comprised of the typical 52 weeks compared to fiscal 2016 which was comprised of 53 weeks. The additional week of operations in fiscal 2016 generated approximately $6.7 million in restaurant sales in that year.

The approximate $14.9 million decrease in sales at stand-alone Luby’s Cafeterias reflects that fiscal 2016 included one additional week of operations which generated approximately $4.1 million in sales in fiscal 2016, a 3.3% decrease in same-store stand-alone Luby's Cafeteria sales, and a reduction of six operating restaurants. The 3.3% decrease in same-store sales includes a 5.6% decrease in guest traffic partially offset by a 2.3% increase in average spend per guest.

The approximate $8.3 million decrease in sales at stand-alone Fuddruckers restaurants includes approximately $1.9 million in sales generated in the additional week in fiscal 2016, a 1.8% decrease in same-store stand-alone Fuddruckers sales, and a net reduction of six operating restaurants. The 1.8% decrease in same-store sales includes a 4.6% decrease in guest traffic partially offset by a 2.8% increase in average spend per guest.

The approximate $1.8 million decrease in sales from Combo locations includes approximately $0.4 million in sales generated in the additional week in fiscal 2016 and a 5.3% decrease in sales at the six locations in operation throughout fiscal 2016 and fiscal 2017.

The approximate $2.2 million decrease in sales from our Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants includes approximately $0.3 million in sales generated in the additional week in fiscal 2016 and a 10.5% decrease in sales at the eight locations in operation throughout fiscal 2016 and fiscal 2017.


29



Total restaurant sales increased approximately $7.9 million in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 . The increase in restaurant sales included a $5.1 million increase in sales at stand-alone Fuddruckers restaurants, a $2.9 million increase in sales at stand-alone Luby’s Cafeterias, and a $0.5 million increase at sales from our Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants, partially offset by $0.6 million decrease in sales from Combo locations. The $7.9 million increase in total restaurant sales reflects one additional week of operations since fiscal 2016 comprised 53 weeks compared to fiscal 2015 which was comprised of a typical 52 weeks. The additional week of operations in fiscal 2016 generated approximately $6.7 million in restaurant sales.

The $2.9 million increase in sales at stand-alone Luby’s Cafeterias includes approximately $4.1 million in sales generated in the additional week and a 1.1% increase in same-store stand-alone Luby's Cafeteria sales, offset by a net reduction of four operating restaurants. The 1.1% increase in same-store sales includes a 3.0% increase in guest traffic partially offset by a 1.9% decrease in average spend per guest.

The $5.1 million increase in sales at stand-alone Fuddruckers restaurants includes approximately $1.9 million in sales
generated in the additional week and a net increase of three operating restaurants. On a same-store basis, Fuddruckers sales were on par with fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015. Average spend per guest increased approximately 2.7% and was offset by a similar decrease in guest traffic.

The $0.5 million increase in sales from our Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants includes approximately $0.3 million in sales generated in the additional week and a 0.8% increase in sales at the eight locations in operation, all of which are included in our same-store-grouping.

The $0.6 million decrease in sales from Combo locations includes approximately $0.4 million in sales generated in the additional week offset by decreases in sales at two locations that experienced sales declines when compared against the months immediately following their opening when a high-volume of sales were generated.

Cost of Food  
 
Fiscal Year 2017 Ended
 
Fiscal Year 2016 Ended
 
Fiscal 2017 vs Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal Year 2015 Ended
 
Fiscal 2016 vs Fiscal 2015
($000s)
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
August 26, 2015
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 vs 53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 vs 52 weeks)
Cost of food
$
98,714

 
$
106,980

 
(7.7
)%
 
$
107,052

 
(0.1
)%
As a percentage of restaurant sales
28.1
%
 
28.3
%
 
(0.2
)%
 
28.9
%
 
(0.6
)%
 
Cost of food, which is comprised of the cost associated with sale of food and beverage products that are consumed dining in our restaurants, as take-out, and as catering. Cost of food decreased approximately $8.3 million , or 7.7% , in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 . Cost of food is variable and generally fluctuates with sales volume. As a percentage of restaurant sales, food costs decreased 0.2% to 28.1% in fiscal 2017 compared to 28.3% in fiscal 2016 . The Cost of food as percentage of sales decreased with lower average food commodity costs, higher realized average menu prices, and continued careful food cost controls. At our Luby’s Cafeterias we experienced an approximate 1% decrease in the cost of our basket of food commodity purchases, occurring as a result of decreases in the cost in our primary commodities of beef and poultry as well as in our other commodities of eggs and oils and shortenings partially offset by increases in the cost of seafood, dairy and butter, and fresh produce. At our Fuddruckers, the cost of our basket of food commodity purchases was stable, with modest increases in the cost of beef, cheese and dairy, and produce offset by decreases in the cost of poultry, pork, and dough used in the production of buns.
 

30



Cost of food decreased approximately $0.1 million, or 0.1%, in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015. Cost of food is variable and generally fluctuates with sales volume. As a percentage of restaurant sales, food costs decreased 0.6% to 28.3% in fiscal 2016 compared to 28.9% in fiscal 2015. The Cost of food as percentage of sales decreased with lower food commodity costs, higher realized average menu prices at Fuddruckers, and continued careful food cost controls. At our Luby’s Cafeterias we experienced an approximate 3% decrease in our basket of food commodity purchases, occurring as a result of significant decreases in the cost of beef and cheese and, to a lesser extent, dairy, butter, and fresh produce, partially offset by increases in the cost of oils and shortenings, and to a lesser extent seafood. At our Fuddruckers restaurants we experienced an approximate 7% decrease in our basket of food commodity purchases, with significant decreases in the cost of beef having the greatest impact. Our cost of food, however, was also impacted by decreases in the cost of oils and shortenings, cheese, and dairy products, partially offset by higher other protein costs.

 
Payroll and Related Costs  
 
Fiscal Year 2017 Ended
 
Fiscal Year 2016 Ended
 
Fiscal 2017 vs Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal Year 2015 Ended
 
Fiscal 2016 vs Fiscal 2015
($000s)
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
August 26, 2015
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 vs 53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 vs 52 weeks)
Payroll and related costs
$
125,997

 
$
132,960

 
(5.2
)%
 
$
127,691

 
4.1
%
As a percentage of restaurant sales
35.9
%
 
35.2
%
 
0.7
 %
 
34.5
%
 
0.7
%
 
Payroll and related costs includes restaurant-level hourly wages, including overtime pay, and pay while training, as well as management salaries and incentive payments. Payroll and related costs also include the payroll taxes, workers’ compensation expense, group health insurance costs, and 401(k) matching expense for all restaurant-level hourly and management employees. Payroll and related costs decreased approximately $7.0 million , or 5.2% , in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 due in part to (1) operating ten fewer restaurants; (2) an additional week of operations in fiscal 2016; (3) an approximate $0.7 million decrease in workers' compensation expense; partially offset by (4) higher average wage rates. Payroll and related costs as a percentage of restaurant sales increased 0.7% due to (1) the fixed cost component of labor costs (mainly management labor) with lower same-store sales levels; (2) higher average hourly wage rates reflective of market pressures; (3) higher average restaurant management compensation; partially offset by (4) lower workers' compensation insurance expense.
 
Payroll and related costs increased approximately $5.3 million, or 4.1%, in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 due primarily to an additional week of operations in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015. Payroll and related costs as a percentage of restaurant sales increased 0.7% due to (1) higher average hourly wage rates reflective of market pressures; (2) a greater usage of overtime pay necessary to staff our restaurants to maintain a high level of guest service; and (3) higher average restaurant management compensation; partially offset by (4) lower workers' compensation insurance expense.
 
Other Operating Expenses  
 
Fiscal Year 2017 Ended
 
Fiscal Year 2016 Ended
 
Fiscal 2017 vs Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal Year 2015 Ended
 
Fiscal 2016 vs Fiscal 2015
($000s)
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
August 26, 2015
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 vs 53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 vs 52 weeks)
Other operating expenses
$
61,924

 
$
60,961

 
1.6
%
 
$
63,133

 
(3.4
)%
As a percentage of restaurant sales
17.7
%
 
16.1
%
 
1.6
%
 
17.1
%
 
(1.0
)%
 

31



Other operating expenses primarily include restaurant-related expenses for utilities, repairs and maintenance, advertising, insurance, and services. Other operating expenses increased approximately $1.0 million , or 1.6% , in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 . As a percentage of restaurant sales, Other operating expenses increased 1.6% to 17.7% in fiscal 2017 compared to 16.1% in fiscal 2016 . The 1.6% increase in Other operating expenses as a percentage of restaurant sales was due to (1) a 0.6% increase in restaurant services including higher computer network connectivity, point of sale software, food-to-go delivery charges to third parties, increased store security costs, and higher fees associated with armored car services; (2) a 0.6% increase in repairs and maintenance costs; (3) a 0.3% increase in utilities costs due to higher average utility rates; and (4) a 0.1% increase in restaurant supplies expense with typical inflationary cost increases on lower same-store sales volumes.

Other operating expenses primarily include restaurant-related expenses for utilities, repairs and maintenance, advertising, insurance, and services. Other operating expenses decreased approximately $2.2 million, or 3.4%, in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015. As a percentage of restaurant sales, Other operating expenses decreased 1.0% to 16.1% in fiscal 2016 compared to 17.1% in fiscal 2015. The 1.0% decrease in Other operating expenses as a percentage of restaurant sales was due to (1) a 0.7% decrease in repairs and maintenance cost; (2) a 0.3% decrease in utilities costs due to lower average utility rates; and (3) a 0.1% decrease in individual store marketing and advertising costs as advertising spend was re-directed into more corporate-wide marketing initiatives; partially offset by (4) a net 0.1% increase in restaurant supplies costs, restaurant services costs, insurance costs, and other restaurant operating costs.

Occupancy Costs
 
 
Fiscal Year 2017 Ended
 
Fiscal Year 2016 Ended
 
Fiscal 2017 vs Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal Year 2015 Ended
 
Fiscal 2016 vs Fiscal 2015
($000s)
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
August 26, 2015
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 vs 53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 vs 52 weeks)
Occupancy costs
$
21,787

 
$
22,374

 
(2.6
)%
 
$
21,084

 
6.1
%
As a percentage of restaurant sales
6.2
%
 
5.9
%
 
0.3
 %
 
5.7
%
 
0.2
%
 
Occupancy costs include property lease expense, property taxes, and common area maintenance charges, property insurance, and permits and licenses. Occupancy costs decreased $0.6 million in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 due to primarily operating seven fewer leased restaurant locations (one of which is now sub-leased to a Fuddruckers franchise operator) and one additional week of operations in fiscal 2016. The occupancy costs of closed locations previously operated as Cheeseburger in Paradise, but selected for conversion to Fuddruckers restaurants in fiscal 2017 or beyond have been classified as pre-opening cost and reflected in our Opening costs expense line.
 
Occupancy costs increased $1.3 million in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 due to a net increase of three restaurant locations, increased property tax expense at existing locations, increased property insurance expense at existing locations, and one additional week of operations in fiscal 2016. The occupancy costs of closed locations previously operated as Cheeseburger in Paradise, but selected for conversion to Fuddruckers restaurants in fiscal 2016 or beyond have been classified as pre-opening cost and reflected in our Opening costs expense line.


  Franchise Operations Segment Profit
 
 
Fiscal Year 2017 Ended
 
Fiscal Year 2016 Ended
 
Fiscal 2017 vs Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal Year 2015 Ended
 
Fiscal 2016 vs Fiscal 2015
($000s)
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
August 26, 2015
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 vs 53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 vs 52 weeks)
Franchise revenue
$
6,723

 
$
7,250

 
(7.3
)%
 
$
6,961

 
4.2
 %
Cost of franchise operations
1,733

 
1,877

 
(7.7
)%
 
1,668

 
12.5
 %
Franchise profit
$
4,990

 
$
5,373

 
(7.1
)%
 
$
5,293

 
1.5
 %
Franchise profit as percent of Franchise revenue
74.2
%
 
74.1
%
 
0.1
 %
 
76.0
%
 
(1.9
)%

32



 
We offer franchises for the Fuddruckers brand. Franchises are sold in markets where expansion is deemed advantageous to the development of the Fuddruckers concept and system of restaurants. Franchise revenue includes (1) franchise royalties and (2) franchise and area development agreement fees. Franchise revenue decreased approximately $0.5 million in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 which included an approximate $0.6 million decrease in franchise royalties, partially offset by an approximate $0.1 million increase in franchise fees. Cost of franchise operations decreased approximately $0.1 million , or 7.7% , in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 , primarily as a result of decreased overhead cost to support franchise operations and the opening of fewer franchise locations. Franchisees opened four international locations (one in Panama; one in Colombia; one in the Dominican Republic; and one in Canada) in fiscal 2017. Franchise profit, defined as Franchise revenue less Cost of franchise operations, decreased approximately $0.4 million in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 . During fiscal 2017 , we opened the eight franchise locations enumerated above and there were also eight franchise units that closed on a permanent basis. We ended fiscal 2017 with 113 Fuddruckers franchise restaurants.

Franchise revenue increased approximately $0.3 million in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 which included an approximate $0.2 million increase in franchise fees and an approximate $0.1 million increase in franchise royalties. Cost of franchise operations increased approximately $0.2 million, or 12.5%, in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015, primarily as a result of increased overhead cost to support franchise operations and the opening of new franchise locations. Franchisees opened six international locations (one in each of Mexico and Panama; two in each of Italy and Columbia) and seven domestic locations (one in each of Michigan, Montana, California, Florida, and Texas; and two in Virgina) in fiscal 2016. Franchise profit, defined as Franchise revenue less Cost of franchise operations, increased approximately $0.1 million in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015. During fiscal 2016, we opened 13 franchise locations and there were six franchise units that closed on a permanent basis. We ended fiscal 2016 with 113 Fuddruckers franchise restaurants.


Culinary Contract Services Segment Profit
 
Culinary Contract Services is a business line servicing healthcare, corporate dining clients, sports stadiums, and sales through retail grocery outlets. The healthcare accounts are full service and typically include in-room delivery, catering, vending, coffee service and retail dining. This business line varied between 23 and 25 client locations through fiscal 2017 and between 24 and 28 client locations in fiscal 2016 . In fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016 , we continued concentrating on clients able to enter into agreements where all operating costs are reimbursed to us and we charge a generally fixed fee. These agreements typically present lower financial risk to the company.  
 
 
Fiscal Year 2017 Ended
 
Fiscal Year 2016 Ended
 
Fiscal 2017 vs Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal Year 2015 Ended
 
Fiscal 2016 vs Fiscal 2015
($000s)
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
August 26, 2015
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 vs 53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 vs 52 weeks)
Culinary contract services
$
17,943

 
$
16,695

 
7.5
%
 
$
16,401

 
1.8
%
Cost of culinary contract services
15,774

 
14,955

 
5.5
%
 
14,786

 
1.1
%
Culinary contract profit
$
2,169

 
$
1,740

 
24.7
%
 
$
1,615

 
7.7
%
Culinary contract profit as percent of Culinary contract services sales
12.1
%
 
10.4
%
 
1.7
%
 
9.8
%
 
0.6
%
 
Culinary contract services revenue increased $1.2 million , or 7.5% , in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 . The $1.2 million increase in revenue was primarily due to (1) twelve new locations opening since the beginning of fiscal 2016 contributing a total of $6.2 million in sales; partially offset by (2) the closure of nine locations which reduced sales by $4.6 million; and (3) a reduction of $0.4 million in sales from locations that were in operation throughout fiscal 2016 and fiscal 2017. Cost of culinary contract services includes the food, payroll and related costs, other direct operating expenses associated with generating culinary contract sales, and the direct overhead costs (primarily salary and related costs) associated with the management of this business segment. Cost of culinary contract services increased approximately $0.8 million , or 5.5% , in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 due primarily to a net increase in culinary contract sales volume, partially offset by an additional week of operations in fiscal 2016. Profit in our Culinary Contract Services business segment (defined as Culinary contract cervices revenue less Cost of culinary contract services) increased in dollar terms by approximately $0.4 million and increased as a percent of Culinary contract services revenue to 12.1% in fiscal 2017 from 10.4% in fiscal 2016 .

33



 
Culinary contract services revenue increased $0.3 million, or 1.8%, in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015. The $0.3 million increase in revenue was primarily due to one additional week of operations in fiscal 2016 with openings and closings having minimal impact on total Culinary contract services revenue. Cost of culinary contract services includes the food, payroll and related costs, other direct operating expenses associated with generating culinary contract sales, and the direct overhead costs (primarily salary and related costs) associated with the management of this business segment. Cost of culinary contract services increased approximately $0.2 million, or 1.1%, in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 due primarily to an increase in Culinary contract sales volume related to an additional week of operations in fiscal 2016. Profit in our Culinary Contract Services business segment (defined as Culinary contract services revenue less Cost of culinary contract services) increased in dollar terms by approximately $0.1 million and increased as a percent of Culinary contract services revenue to 10.4% in fiscal 2016 from 9.8% in fiscal 2015.

Opening Costs
 
Opening costs includes labor, supplies, occupancy, and other costs necessary to support the restaurant through its opening period. Opening costs were approximately $0.5 million in fiscal 2017 compared to approximately $0.8 million in fiscal 2016 and approximately $2.7 million in fiscal 2015 .

Opening costs of $0.5 million in fiscal 2017 included the costs of opening one Fuddruckers location and the carrying costs (mainly rent, property taxes, and utilities) for two locations that were selected for possible conversion from Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants to Fuddruckers restaurants.

Opening costs in fiscal 2016 included the costs of opening three Fuddruckers locations and the carrying costs (mainly rent, property taxes, and utilities) for two locations that were selected for possible conversion from Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants to Fuddruckers restaurants.

Opening costs in fiscal 2015 included the cost associated with opening one Combo location and nine stand-alone Fuddruckers restaurants, including one that opened just prior to the start of fiscal 2015 . Opening costs in fiscal 2015 also included the carrying costs (mainly rent, property taxes, and utilities) for seven locations that were selected for conversion from Cheeseburger in Paradise to Fuddruckers; three of these locations opened as a Fuddruckers during fiscal 2015 , two of these locations opened as a Fuddruckers subsequent to end of fiscal 2015 .

Depreciation and Amortization
 
 
Fiscal Year 2017 Ended
 
Fiscal Year 2016 Ended
 
Fiscal 2017 vs Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal Year 2015 Ended
 
Fiscal 2016 vs Fiscal 2015
($000s)
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
August 26, 2015
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 vs 53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 vs 52 weeks)
Depreciation and amortization
$
20,438

 
$
21,889

 
(6.6
)%
 
$
21,407

 
2.3
%
As a percentage of total sales
5.4
%
 
5.4
%
 
0.0
 %
 
5.4
%
 
0.0
%
 
Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $1.5 million in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 due primarily to the decrease in capital spending for new store construction, reduced remodel activity, and reduced recurring maintenance capital spending in addition to certain existing assets reaching the end of their depreciable lives during fiscal 2017 .
 
Depreciation and amortization expense increased $0.5 million in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 due primarily to the investments made in new locations and the capital we have used for remodeling existing locations as well as depreciation associated with additional infrastructure and technology assets. The increase in depreciation due to investments made in new locations as well as the capital we have used for remodeling existing locations was mostly offset by certain existing assets reaching the end of their depreciable lives during fiscal 2016 .


34



Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
 
 
Fiscal Year 2017 Ended
 
Fiscal Year 2016 Ended
 
Fiscal 2017 vs Fiscal 2016
 
Fiscal Year 2015 Ended
 
Fiscal 2016 vs Fiscal 2015
($000s)
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
August 26, 2015
 
Higher/(Lower)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 vs 53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 vs 52 weeks)
General and administrative expenses
$
32,746

 
$
36,808

 
(11.0
)%
 
$
35,557

 
3.5
%
Marketing and advertising expenses
5,132

 
5,614

 
(8.6
)%
 
3,202

 
75.3
%
Selling, general and administrative expenses
$
37,878

 
$
42,422

 
(10.7
)%
 
$
38,759

 
9.5
%
As percent of total sales
10.1
%
 
10.5
%
 
(0.4
)%
 
9.8
%
 
0.7
%
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses include corporate salaries and benefits-related costs, including restaurant area leaders, share-based compensation, professional fees, travel and recruiting expenses and other office expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by approximately $4.5 million , or 10.7% , in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 . Decreases in Selling, general and administrative expenses include (1) an approximate $3.5 million decrease in salaries, benefits, and other compensation expenses due to reduced headcount, significantly reduced bonus and incentive expense (including an adjustment to the estimated fair value of performance awards under an incentive compensation plan), and to a lesser extent, one less operating week in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016; (2) an approximate $0.7 million decrease in corporate employee travel costs; (3) an approximate $0.5 million reduction in marketing and advertising costs, partially offset by (4) an approximate $0.1 million increase in corporate supplies expense and other overhead expenses, net of a reduction in outside professional service fees. As a percentage of total sales, Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to 10.1% in fiscal 2017 compared to 10.5% in fiscal 2016 primarily due to decreases in the expenses enumerated above.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by approximately $3.7 million , or 9.5% , in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 . Increases in Selling, general and administrative expenses include (1) an approximate $2.4 million increase in marketing and advertising expense; (2) an approximate $0.7 million increase in outside professional service fees and employee moving costs; (3) a net increase of $0.4 million in salaries and benefits expense, health insurance costs and employee travel costs; and (4) an approximate net increase of $0.2 million in corporate supplies and other corporate overhead costs. Certain expenses, were impacted with the additional week of operations in fiscal 2016 with salaries and benefits expense for the additional week comprising the largest portion of this impact. The $2.4 million increase in marketing and advertising expenses is intended to motivate increased guest visits, increased frequency of visits and increased overall brand awareness. This includes sponsorships and partnerships with sports teams that we believe enhance our visibility and appeal within our core markets. As a percentage of total sales, Selling, general and administrative expenses increased to 10.5% in fiscal 2016 compared to 9.8% in fiscal 2015 primarily due to increases in the expenses enumerated above.

Provision for Asset Impairments and Restaurant Closings

The provision for asset impairment and restaurant closings of approximately $10.6 million in fiscal 2017 is primarily related to assets impaired at 17 property locations, goodwill at six property locations, five properties held for sale written down to their fair value, and a reserve for 10 restaurant closings of approximately $0.5 million .

The asset impairment of approximately $1.4 million in fiscal 2016 reflects (1) a $1.2 million impairment for one owned Fuddruckers location and three leased Fuddruckers locations; (2) a $0.2 million charge for restaurant closings related to three Fuddruckers locations and one Luby's Cafeteria location; and (3) a $38 thousand impairment of Goodwill. The $0.2 million charge for restaurant closings includes the total amount of rent and other direct costs for the remaining period of time the properties will be unoccupied plus the value of the amount by which the rent we pay to the landlord exceeds any rent paid to us by a tenant under a sublease over the remaining period of the lease terms.
 
The asset impairment of approximately $0.6 million in fiscal 2015 reflects the impairment of three leased Fuddruckers locations.


35



Net Gain on Disposition of Property and Equipment
 
The disposition of property and equipment in fiscal 2017 resulted in a net gain of approximately $1.8 million , which included (1) the gain on the sale of three properties where we operated a cafeteria up until the time of the sale offset by (2) normal asset retirement activity at operating locations and costs associated with disposal of assets at one leased property we operated up until the time of lease termination.

The disposition of property and equipment in fiscal 2016 resulted in a net gain of approximately $0.7 million , which included (1) the gain on the sale of one property where we operated a cafeteria up until the time of the sale offset by (2) normal asset retirement activity.

The disposition of property and equipment in fiscal 2015 resulted in a net gain of approximately $4.0 million , which included (1) the gain on the disposition of three owned Luby’s Cafeteria locations; (2) the gain on the sale of two owned properties which we previously leased to a tenant; offset by (3) normal asset retirement activity in our restaurants.
 
Interest Income
 
Interest income was $8 thousand in fiscal 2017 compared to $4 thousand in fiscal 2016 , and compared to $4 thousand in fiscal 2015 .
 
Interest Expense

Interest expense in fiscal 2017 increased approximately $0.2 million compared to fiscal 2016 on marginally higher average debt balances and higher average interest rates. Interest expense in fiscal 2016 decreased approximately $0.1 million compared to fiscal 2015 on slightly lower average debt balances.
 
Other Income (Expense), Net
 
Other income (expense), net, consisted primarily of the following components: net rental property income and expenses relating to property for which we are the landlord; prepaid sales tax discounts; oil and gas royalty income; and dining card sales discounts. 
 
Other income (expense), net, was an expense of approximately $0.5 million in fiscal 2017 compared to income of approximately $0.2 million in fiscal 2016 and income of approximately $0.5 million in fiscal 2015 . Other income (expense), net, decreased approximately $0.6 million in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 primarily related to (1) recording a net reduction in the fair value of our interest rate swap agreement; (2) lower rental net income; and (3) a decrease in sales tax discounts as we did not participate in state tax prepayment programs to the full extent in fiscal 2017. Other income (expense), net, decreased approximately $0.3 million in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 primarily related to an increase in discounts related to sale of pre-paid gift cards.
 
Taxes
 
The income tax provision related to continuing operations for fiscal 2017 was approximately $2.4 million compared to an income tax provision of approximately $4.9 million for fiscal 2016 and an income tax benefit of approximately $1.1 million for fiscal 2015 . The income tax provision in fiscal 2017 reflects increasing the deferred tax asset valuation allowance by $9.5 million partially offset by recording a tax benefit related to the pre-tax loss for the year adjusted for state income taxes, and general business and foreign tax credits. The income tax provision in fiscal 2016 reflects recording a deferred tax asset valuation allowance of $6.9 million partially offset by recording a tax benefit related to the pre-tax loss for the year adjusted for state income taxes, and general business and foreign tax credits. The income tax benefit 2015 reflects the tax effect of the pre-tax loss for the year adjusted for state income taxes, and general business and foreign tax credits.

The effective tax rate (ETR) from continuing operations was a negative 12.0%, a negative 90.6%, and a positive 44.0% for fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. The ETR for the year ended August 30, 2017 , the year ended August 31, 2016 , and the year ended August 26, 2015 differs from the federal statutory rate of 34% due to the federal jobs credits, state income taxes and other discrete items.


36



Discontinued Operations
 
 
 
Fiscal   Year Ended
($000s)  
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
August 26, 2015
 
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
Discontinued operating losses
 
$
(28
)
 
$
(161
)
 
$
(890
)
Impairments
 

 

 
(90
)
Gains
 

 
25

 
116

Pretax loss
 
$
(28
)
 
$
(136
)
 
$
(864
)
Income tax benefit (expense) from discontinued operations
 
(438
)
 
46

 
406

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
 
$
(466
)
 
$
(90
)
 
$
(458
)
  
The loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes was approximately $0.5 million in fiscal 2017 compared to a loss of approximately $0.1 million in fiscal 2016 and a loss of approximately $0.5 million in fiscal 2015 . The loss of approximately $0.5 million in fiscal 2017 included (1) less than $0.1 million in “carrying costs” (typically rent, property taxes, utilities, and maintenance) associated with assets that were related to discontinued operations) and (2) an approximate $0.4 million income tax provision related to increasing the deferred tax asset valuation allowance associated with discontinued operations. The loss of $0.1 million in fiscal 2016 included (1) an approximate $0.2 million in carrying costs associated with assets that were related to discontinued operations; offset by (2) a less than $0.1 million gain on sale of assets that were related to discontinued operations; and (4) a less than $0.1 million income tax benefit related to discontinued operations. The loss of $0.5 million in fiscal 2016 included (1) approximately $0.9 million in carrying costs associated with assets that were related to discontinued operations; (2) impairment charges of approximately $0.1 million million for certain assets related to discontinued operations; offset by (3) an approximate $0.1 million gain on sale of assets that were related to discontinued operations; and (4) an approximate $0.4 million income tax benefit related to discontinued operations.  
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
General. Our primary sources of short-term and long-term liquidity are cash flows from operations and our revolving credit facility.
 
Cash and cash equivalents decreased approximately $0.2 million as of the end of fiscal 2017 compared to the end of fiscal 2016 . Cash provided by operating activities of approximately $9.6 million was offset by cash used in investing activities of approximately $3.2 million and cash used in financing activities of approximately $6.6 million .
 
Cash flows from operating activities of approximately $9.6 million was a source of cash in fiscal 2017 and a decrease of approximately $4.2 million from a source of cash of approximately $13.9 million in fiscal 2016 . Net cash used in investing activities was approximately $3.2 million representing an approximate $10.2 million decrease from net cash used in investing activities of approximately $13.4 million in fiscal 2016. Cash flows from financing activities was a use of cash of approximately $6.7 million and an increase of approximately $6.1 million from a use of cash of approximately $0.6 million in fiscal 2016. We decreased our total outstanding debt to $31.0 million at the end of fiscal 2017 from $37.0 million at the end of fiscal 2016 primarily due to the use of proceeds from property sales to prepay $7.2 million of our Term Loan, cash provided by operations, and decreases in our capital expenditures. We plan to continue the level of capital expenditures necessary to keep our restaurants attractive and operating efficiently.
 
Cash and cash equivalents decreased approximately $0.2 million as of the end of fiscal 2016 compared to the end of fiscal 2015 . Cash provided by operating activities of approximately $13.8 million was offset by cash used in investing activities of approximately $13.4 million and cash used in financing activities of approximately $0.6 million .

Cash flow from operations was favorably impacted by increased restaurant sales, decreased other operating expenses and cost of food in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 but unfavorably impacted by increased cost of payroll and related costs. We decreased our net borrowings from our revolving credit facility in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 primarily due to decreases in our capital expenditures and the increase in cash provided by operations.
 

37



Our cash requirements for fiscal 2017 consisted principally of:

capital expenditures for recurring maintenance of our restaurant property and equipment, restaurant renovations and upgrades, new construction, and information technology;
payments to reduce our debt; and
working capital primarily for our Company-owned restaurants and obligations under our CCS agreements.
 
Based upon our level of past and projected capital requirements, we expect that proceeds from the sale of assets and cash flows from operations, combined with other financing alternatives in place or available, will be sufficient to meet our capital expenditures and working capital requirements during the next twelve months.
 
As is common in the restaurant industry, we maintain relatively low levels of accounts receivable and inventories and our vendors grant trade credit for purchases such as food and supplies. However, higher levels of accounts receivable are typical in our CCS business segment and Franchise Operations business segment. We also invest in our business through the addition of new restaurant units and refurbishment of existing restaurant units, which are reflected as long-term assets.
 
The following table summarizes our cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities: 
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended
 
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
August 26, 2015
 
 
(52 weeks)
 
(53 weeks)
 
(52 weeks)
 
 
(In thousands)
Total cash provided by (used in):
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating activities
 
$
9,640

 
$
13,859

 
$
10,316

Investing activities
 
(3,216
)
 
(13,442
)
 
(7,043
)
Financing activities
 
(6,667
)
 
(579
)
 
(4,560
)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents
 
$
(243
)
 
$
(162
)
 
$
(1,287
)
 
Operating Activities. Cash flow from operating activities decreased from approximately $13.8 million in fiscal 2016 to approximately $9.6 million in fiscal 2017 . The $4.2 million decrease in cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to an approximate $8.3 million decrease in cash provided by operations before changes in operating assets and liabilities offset by an approximate $4.1 million decrease in cash used in changes in operating assets and liabilities.
 
The $8.3 million decrease in cash provided by operating activities before changes in operating assets and liabilities was primarily due to uses of cash from an approximate $12.4 million decrease total in total segment level profit, an approximate $0.2 million increase in interest expense, and an approximate $0.2 million decrease in net rental income, partially offset by sources of cash of an approximate $4.5 million reduction in corporate overhead costs, exclusive of non-cash share-based compensation expense.

The $4.1 million decrease in cash used in changes in operating assets and liabilities was primarily due to an approximate $4.3 million decrease in the change of accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities, an approximate $0.3 million decrease in the change of prepaid expenses and other assets, and approximately $0.8 million decrease in the change of food and supply inventories, partially offset by an approximate $1.3 million increase in trade accounts receivable and other receivables in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 .
 
Cash flow from operating activities increased from approximately $10.3 million in fiscal 2015 to approximately $13.8 million in fiscal 2016 . The $3.5 million increase in cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to an approximate $3.2 million increase in cash provided by operations before changes in operating assets and liabilities and an approximate $0.3 million decrease in cash used in changes in operating assets and liabilities.
 
Investing Activities. We generally reinvest available cash flows from operations to develop new restaurants, maintain and enhance existing restaurants, and to support CCS. Our capital expenditure program includes, among other things, investments in new restaurants, restaurant remodeling, and information technology enhancements. Company-owned restaurant capital expenditures included purchases of new equipment, restaurant renovations and upgrades and new restaurant construction.


38



Cash used in investing activities was approximately $3.2 million in fiscal 2017 , a decrease of approximately $10.2 million compared to cash used in investing activities of approximately $13.4 million in fiscal 2016 , primarily due to a reduction in the purchase of property and equipment and an increase in proceeds from disposal of assets and property held for sale. We invested approximately $12.5 million in the purchase of property and equipment in fiscal 2017 , a decrease of $5.8 million from our investment of approximately $18.3 million in fiscal 2016 . Proceeds from disposal of assets and property held for sale was approximately $9.3 million in fiscal 2017 , an increase of $4.5 million from proceeds of approximately $4.8 million in fiscal 2016 . The purchases of property and equipment of approximately $12.5 million in fiscal 2017 included $11.4 million in capital expenditures related to Company-owned restaurants and $1.1 million in corporate related capital expenditures. The purchases of property and equipment of approximately $18.3 million in fiscal 2016 included $17.3 million in capital expenditures related to Company-owned restaurants and $1.0 million in corporate related capital expenditures.
 
Cash used in investing activities was approximately $13.4 million in fiscal 2016 compared to cash used in investing activities of approximately $7.0 million in fiscal 2015 . In fiscal 2016 , proceeds from disposal of assets and property held for sale was approximately $4.8 million. In fiscal 2016, purchases of property and equipment was approximately $18.3 million, including $17.3 million in capital expenditures related to Company-owned restaurants and approximately $1.0 million in corporate related capital expenditures.

Financing Activities. Cash used in financing activities was approximately $6.7 million in fiscal 2017 , a decrease of $6.1 million from cash used in financing activities of approximately $0.6 million in fiscal 2016 . Net repayments of debt totaled approximately $6.0 million in fiscal 2017 , a reduction of $5.5 million compared to net repayments of approximately $0.5 million in fiscal 2016 . In fiscal 2017 , we also paid approximately $0.6 million in debt issuance costs.

In fiscal 2016 , we decreased debt from $37.5 million at the end of fiscal 2015 to $37.0 million at the end of fiscal 2016 . In fiscal 2016 , we paid approximately $42 thousand in debt issuance costs and received approximately $82 thousand in proceeds from the exercise of employee stock options.
 
STATUS OF LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS AND LIQUIDITY
 
At August 30, 2017 , we did not hold any long-term investments.
 
STATUS OF TRADE ACCOUNTS AND OTHER RECEIVABLES, NET
 
We monitor the aging of our receivables, including Fuddruckers franchising related receivables, and record provisions for uncollectability, as appropriate. Credit terms of accounts receivable associated with our CCS business vary from 30 to 45 days based on contract terms.
 
WORKING CAPITAL
 
At fiscal year-end 2017 , current assets increased approximately $1.4 million including a decrease of approximately $0.2 million in cash. Trade accounts and other receivables and food and prepaid expenses increased approximately $2.0 million and $0.3 million , respectively. Deferred income taxes and food and supply inventory decreased approximately $0.5 million and $0.2 million , respectively. The $2.0 million increase in trade accounts and other receivables was primarily due to increases in receivables related to our culinary contract services and accrued insurance proceeds on two properties damaged by flooding during Hurricane Harvey and the $0.3 million increase in prepaid expenses was primarily due to discounts on prepaid gift card sales. The $0.2 million decrease in food and supply inventory was primarily due to moderately lower spending for restaurant supplies.
 
At fiscal year-end 2017 , current liabilities increased approximately $2.7 million due to an approximate $4.3 million increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities offset by an approximate $1.6 million decrease in accounts payable. The increase of approximately $4.3 million in accrued expenses and other liabilities is primarily a result of increases in sales tax payable of approximately $1.9 million, accrued salaries and incentives of approximately $1.2 million, unredeemed gift cards of approximately $1.1 million , lease termination expense of approximately $0.4 million, accrued interest expense of approximately $0.3 million, and accrued advertising of approximately $0.2 million, partially offset by decreases in deferred franchise fees of approximately $0.5 million, accrued claims and other expenses of approximately $0.1 million , accrued property taxes of approximately $0.1 million, and accrued utility expenses of approximately $0.1 million. The $1.6 million decrease in accounts payable was due to an approximate $1.7 million decrease in accrued purchases partially offset by an approximate $0.1 million increase in checks in transit.
 

39



CAPITAL EXPENDITURES
 
Capital expenditures consist of purchases of real estate for future restaurant sites, culinary contract services investments, new unit construction, purchases of new and replacement restaurant furniture and equipment, and ongoing remodeling programs. Capital expenditures for fiscal 2017 were approximately $12.5 million  consisting of approximately $1.1 million on new restaurant development, approximately $4.5 million on the remodeling of existing restaurants and technology infrastructure investments, and approximately $6.9 million for recurring capital expenditures. We expect to be able to fund all capital expenditures in fiscal 2018 using cash flows from operations, proceeds from the sale of assets and our available credit. In fiscal 2018 , we expect to invest up to $12.0 million for recurring maintenance for our restaurant properties, information technology investments, and for our on-going remodeling program.
 
DEBT
 
Senior Secured Credit Agreement
On November 8, 2016, we entered into a $65.0 million Senior Secured Credit Facility with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent and Cadence Bank, NA and Texas Capital Bank, NA, as lenders (“2016 Credit Agreement”). The 2016 Credit Agreement, as amended, is comprised of a $30.0 million 5-year Revolver (the “Revolver”) and a $35.0 million 5-year Term Loan (the “Term Loan”). The maturity date of the 2016 Credit Agreement is November 8, 2021. For this section of the form 10-K, capitalized terms that are used but not otherwise defined shall have the meanings given to such terms in the 2016 Credit Agreement.
The Term Loan and/or Revolver commitments may be increased by up to an additional $10 million in the aggregate.
The 2016 Credit Agreement also provides for the issuance of letters of credit in an aggregate amount equal to the lesser of $5.0 million and the Revolving Credit Commitment, which was $30 million as of November 8, 2016. The 2016 Credit Agreement is guaranteed by all of our present subsidiaries and will be guaranteed by our future subsidiaries.
At any time throughout the term of the 2016 Credit Agreement, we have the option to elect one of two bases of interest rates. One interest rate option is the highest of (a) the Prime Rate, (b) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50% and (c) 30-day LIBOR plus 1%, plus, in each case, the Applicable Margin, which ranges from 1.50% to 2.50% per annum. The other interest rate option is LIBOR plus the Applicable Margin, which ranges from 2.50% to 3.50% per annum. The Applicable Margin under each option is dependent upon our Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio ("CTLAL") at the most recent quarterly determination date.
The Term Loan amortizes 7.0% per year (35.0% in 5 years) which includes the quarterly payment of principal. As of August 30, 2017, the Company has prepaid its required principal payments through the second calendar quarter of 2019. On December 14, 2016, we entered into an interest rate swap with a notional amount of $17.5 million, representing 50% of the initial outstanding Term Loan.
We are obligated to pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of each lender a quarterly commitment fee based on the average daily unused amount of the commitment of such lender, ranging from 0.30% to 0.35% per annum depending on the CTLAL at the most recent quarterly determination date.
The proceeds of the 2016 Credit Agreement are available for us to (i) pay in full all indebtedness outstanding under the 2013 Credit Agreement as of November 8, 2016, (ii) pay fees, commissions, and expenses in connection with our repayment of the 2013 Credit Agreement, initial extensions of credit under the 2016 Credit Agreement, and (iii) for working capital and general corporate purposes of the Company.
The 2016 Credit Agreement, as amended, contains the following covenants among others:
CTLAL of not more than (i) 5.00 to 1.00, at the end of each fiscal quarter, through and including the third fiscal quarter of the Borrower’s fiscal 2018, and (ii) 4.75 to 1.00 thereafter,
Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of not less than 1.25 to 1.00, at the end of each fiscal quarter,
Limit on Growth Capital Expenditures so long as the CTLAL is at least 0.25X less than the then-applicable permitted maximum CTLAL,
restrictions on mergers, acquisitions, consolidations, and asset sales,
restrictions on the payment of dividends, redemption of stock, and other distributions,
restrictions on incurring indebtedness, including certain guarantees, and capital lease obligations,
restrictions on incurring liens on certain of our property and the property of our subsidiaries,
restrictions on transactions with affiliates and materially changing our business,
restrictions on making certain investments, loans, advances, and guarantees,

40



restrictions on selling assets outside the ordinary course of business,
prohibitions on entering into sale and leaseback transactions, and
restrictions on certain acquisitions of all or a substantial portion of the assets, property and/or equity interests of any person, including share repurchases and dividends.

The 2016 Credit Agreement is secured by substantially all of the personal property, including without limitation the equity interest in each of our subsidiaries. The 2016 Credit Agreement also includes customary events of default. If a default occurs and is continuing, the lenders’ commitments under the 2016 Credit Agreement may be immediately terminated and/or we may be required to repay all amounts outstanding under the 2016 Credit Agreement.
As of August 30, 2017 , we had $31.0 million in total outstanding loans and approximately $1.3 million committed under letters of credit, which is used as security for the payment of insurance obligations, and approximately $0.1 million in other indebtedness.
We were in compliance with the covenants contained in the 2016 Credit Agreement as of August 30, 2017 . At any determination date, if certain leverage and fixed charge coverage ratios exceed the maximum permitted under our 2016 Credit Agreement, we would be considered in default under the terms of the agreement. Due to negative results in fiscal 2017 , continued under performance could cause our financial ratios to exceed the permitted limits under the terms of the 2016 Credit Agreement.
2013 Credit Facility
 
In August 2013, we entered into a $70.0 million revolving credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, and ZB, N.A. dba Amegy Bank (formerly Amegy Bank, N.A.), as Syndication Agent. Pursuant to the October 2, 2015 amendment, the total aggregate amount of the lenders' commitments was lowered to $60.0 million from $70.0 million. The following description summarizes the material terms of the revolving credit facility, as subsequently amended on March 21, 2014, November 7, 2014 and October 2, 2015, (the revolving credit facility is referred to as the “2013 Credit Facility”). The 2013 Credit Facility is governed by the credit agreement dated as of August 14, 2013 (the “2013 Credit Agreement”) among us, the lenders from time to time party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, and ZB, N.A. dba Amegy Bank (formerly Amegy Bank, N.A.), as Syndication Agent. The maturity date of the 2013 Credit Facility was September 1, 2017.
 
The 2013 Credit Facility also provided for the issuance of letters of credit in a maximum aggregate amount of $5.0 million outstanding as of August 14, 2013 and $15.0 million outstanding at any one time with prior written consent of the Administrative Agent and the Issuing Bank. The 2013 Credit Facility was guaranteed by all of our present subsidiaries and was to be guaranteed by our future subsidiaries.

At any time throughout the term of the 2013 Credit Facility, we had the option to elect one of two bases of interest rates. One interest rate option was the greater of (a) the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 0.50%, or (b) prime, plus, in either case, an applicable spread that ranged from 0.75% to 2.25% per annum. The other interest rate option is the London InterBank Offered Rate plus a spread that ranged from 2.50% to 4.00% per annum. The applicable spread under each option is dependent upon the ratio of our debt to EBITDA at the most recent determination date.
 
We were obligated to pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of each lender a quarterly commitment fee based on the average daily unused amount of the commitment of such lender, ranging from 0.30% to 0.40% per annum depending on the Total Leverage Ratio at the most recent determination date.
 
The proceeds of the 2013 Credit Facility were available for our general corporate purposes and general working capital purposes and capital expenditures.
 
The 2013 Credit Agreement, as amended, contained the following covenants among others:

Debt Service Coverage Ratio of not less than (i) 1.10 to 1.00 at all times during the first, second and third fiscal quarters of the Borrower’s fiscal 2015, (ii) 1.25 to 1.00 at all times during the fourth fiscal quarter of the Borrower’s fiscal 2015, and (iii) 1.50 to 1.00 at all times thereafter,
Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio of not more than (i) 5.75 to 1.00 at all times during the first, second and third fiscal quarters of the Borrower’s fiscal 2015, (ii) 5.50 to 1.00 at all times during the fourth fiscal quarter of the Borrower’s fiscal 2015, (iii) 5.25 to 1.00 at all times during the first fiscal quarter of the Borrower’s fiscal 2016, (iv) 5.00 to 1.00 at all times during the second fiscal quarter of the Borrower’s fiscal 2016, and (v) 4.75 to 1.00 at all times thereafter,
capital expenditures limited to $25.0 million per year, 

41



restrictions on incurring liens on certain of our property and the property of our subsidiaries,
restrictions on transactions with affiliates and materially changing our business,
restrictions on making certain investments, loans, advances and guarantees,
restrictions on selling assets outside the ordinary course of business,
prohibitions on entering into sale and leaseback transactions, and
restrictions on certain acquisitions of all or a substantial portion of the assets, property and/or equity interests of any person, including share repurchases and dividends.
  
At February 12, 2014, as the result of losses incurred from our acquired leaseholds operating as Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants, we reported our second consecutive quarterly net profit below our required minimum net profit as defined in the 2012 Credit Agreement. As part of the March 21, 2014 amendment we received a waiver of non-compliance related to this minimum consecutive quarterly net profit debt covenant for the second quarter fiscal 2014. The November 2014 amendment revised the net profit, debt service, lease adjusted leverage ratio, borrowing rates, provided for a $25.0 million annual capital expenditure limit, and required liens to be perfected on all real property by January 31, 2015. As part of the October 2, 2015 amendment, the Net Profit – Two Consecutive Quarters covenant was removed.
 
The 2013 Credit Agreement also included customary events of default. If a default occurred and was continuing, the lenders’ commitments under the 2013 Credit Facility may have be immediately terminated and, or we could have been required to repay all amounts outstanding under the 2013 Credit Facility.

The 2013 Credit Facility was secured by a perfected first priority lien on certain of our real property and all of the material personal property owned by us or any of our subsidiaries, other than certain excluded assets (as defined in the Credit Agreement).
 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
We have no off-balance sheet arrangements except for operating leases for our corporate office, facility service warehouse and certain restaurant properties.
 
Claims
 
From time to time, we are subject to various other private lawsuits, administrative proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of our business. A number of these lawsuits, proceedings and claims may exist at any given time. These matters typically involve claims from guests, employees and others related to issues common to the restaurant industry. We currently believe that the final disposition of these types of lawsuits, proceedings and claims will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity. It is possible, however, that our future results of operations for a particular quarter or fiscal year could be impacted by changes in circumstances relating to lawsuits, proceedings or claims.
 
Construction Activity
 
From time to time, we enter into non-cancelable contracts for the construction of our new restaurants and restaurant remodels. This construction activity exposes us to the risks inherent in this industry including but not limited to rising material prices, labor shortages, delays in getting required permits and inspections, adverse weather conditions, and injuries sustained by workers.
 

42



Contractual Obligations
 
At August 30, 2017 , we had contractual obligations and other commercial commitments as described below:
 
 
Payments due by Period
Contractual Obligations
Total
 
Less than
1 Year
 
1-3 Years
 
3-5 Years
 
After
5 Years
 
(In thousands)
Revolver
$
4,400

 
$

 
$

 
$
4,400

 
$

Term Loan
26,585

 

 
2,360

 
24,225

 

Capital lease and other obligations (1)
144

 
35

 
104

 
5

 

Operating lease obligations (2)
66,099

 
11,747

 
17,865

 
11,409

 
25,078

Uncertain tax positions liability (3)
25

 
25

 

 

 

Total
$
97,253

 
$
11,807

 
$
20,329

 
$
40,039

 
$
25,078

 
 
Amount of Commitment by Expiration Period
Other Commercial Commitments
Total
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2019-2020
 
Fiscal
2020-2021
 
Thereafter
 
(In thousands)
Letters of credit
$
1,287

 
$
1,287

 
$

 
$

 
$

  
(1)
Capital lease obligations contain leases relating to notes on automobile purchases.
(2)
Operating lease obligations contain rent escalations and renewal options ranging from one to twenty-five years.
(3)
The timing and amounts of future cash payments related to these liabilities are uncertain.

In addition to the commitments described above, we enter into a number of cancelable and noncancelable commitments during each fiscal year. Typically, these commitments expire within one year and are generally focused on food inventory. We do not maintain any long-term or exclusive commitments or arrangements to purchase products from any single supplier. Substantially all of our product purchase commitments are cancelable up to 30 days prior to the vendor’s scheduled shipment date.
 
Long-term liabilities reflected in our consolidated financial statements as of August 30, 2017 included amounts accrued for benefit payments under our supplemental executive retirement plan of $45 thousand , accrued non-cash compensation of approximately $0.3 million , accrued insurance reserves of approximately $0.9 million , and deferred rent liabilities of approximately $2.5 million .

We are also contractually obligated to our Chief Executive Officer pursuant to an employment agreement. See “Affiliations and Related Parties” below for further information.
 

43



AFFILIATIONS AND RELATED PARTIES 
 
Affiliate Services
 
Our Chief Executive Officer, Christopher J. Pappas, and one of our directors and our former Chief Operating Officer, Harris J. Pappas, own two restaurant entities (the “Pappas entities”) that may from time to time provide services to Luby’s, Inc. and its subsidiaries, as detailed in the Amended and Restated Master Sales Agreement dated November 8, 2013 among us and the Pappas entities (the “Master Sales Agreement”).
 
Under the terms of the Amended and Restated Master Sales Agreement, the Pappas entities may provide specialized (customized) equipment fabrication primarily for new construction and basic equipment maintenance, including stainless steel stoves, shelving, rolling carts, and chef tables. The total costs under the Amended and Restated Master Sales Agreement of custom-fabricated and refurbished equipment were $4 thousand , $2 thousand , and zero in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. Services provided under this agreement are subject to review and approval by the Finance and Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.
 
Operating Leases
 
In the third quarter of fiscal 2004, Messrs. Pappas became partners in a limited partnership which purchased a retail strip center in Houston, Texas. Messrs. Pappas collectively own a 50% limited partner interest and a 50% general partner interest in the limited partnership. A third party company manages the center. One of the Company’s restaurants has rented approximately 7% of the space in that center since July 1969. No changes were made to the Company’s lease terms as a result of the transfer of ownership of the center to the new partnership.
 
On November 22, 2006, the Company executed a new lease agreement with respect to this property. Effective upon the Company’s relocation and occupancy into the new space in July 2008, the new lease agreement provides for a primary term of approximately 12 years with two subsequent five-year options. The new lease also gave the landlord an option to buy out the tenant on or after the calendar year 2015 by paying the then unamortized cost of improvements to the tenant. The Company paid rent of $22.00 per square foot plus maintenance, taxes, and insurance for the remaining primary term of the lease. Thereafter, the lease provides for increases in rent at set intervals. The Company has made payments of approximately $419 thousand , $417 thousand , and $416 thousand during fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. The new lease agreement was approved by the Finance and Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.
 
In the third quarter of fiscal 2014, on March 12, 2014, the Company executed a new lease agreement for one of the Company’s Houston Fuddruckers locations with Pappas Restaurants, Inc. The lease provides for a primary term of approximately six years with two subsequent five-year options. Pursuant to the new ground lease agreement, the Company paid $28.06 per square foot plus maintenance, taxes, and insurance from March 12, 2014 until May 31, 2020. Thereafter, the new ground lease agreement provides for increases in rent at set intervals. The Company made payments of approximately $162 thousand , $160 thousand , and $160 thousand during fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively.
 
Affiliated rents paid for these Houston property leases represented 2.7% , 2.6% , and 2.7% of the total rents for continuing operations in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively.


44



The following table compares current and prior two fiscal years charges incurred under the Amended and Restated Master Sales Agreement, affiliated property leases, and other related party agreements to our total capital expenditures, as well as relative Selling, general and administrative expenses, and other operating expenses included in continuing operations: 
 
 
Fiscal   Year Ended
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
August 26,
2015
 
(364 days)
 
(371 days)
 
(364 days)
 
(In thousands, except percentages)
AFFILIATED COSTS INCURRED:
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses—professional and other costs
$

 
$
1

 
$
1

Capital expenditures—custom-fabricated and refurbished equipment
4

 
2

 

Other operating expenses, occupancy costs and opening costs, including property leases
581

 
576

 
576

Total
$
585

 
$
579

 
$
577

RELATIVE TOTAL COMPANY COSTS:
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
$
37,878

 
$
42,422

 
$
38,759

Capital expenditures
12,502

 
18,253

 
20,378

Other operating expenses, occupancy costs and opening costs
84,203

 
84,122

 
86,960

Total
$
134,583

 
$
144,797

 
$
146,097

AFFILIATED COSTS INCURRED AS A PERCENTAGE OF RELATIVE TOTAL COMPANY COSTS
0.43
%
 
0.40
%
 
0.39
%
 
The Company entered into a new employment agreement with Christopher Pappas on January 24, 2014. The employment agreement was amended on August 2, 2017, to extend the termination date thereof to August 29, 2018. Mr. Pappas continues to devote his primary time and business efforts to the Company while maintaining his role at Pappas Restaurants, Inc. The Employment Agreement was unanimously approved by the Executive Compensation Committee (the “Committee”) of the Board as well as by the full Board.
 
Peter Tropoli, a director of the Company and the Company's Chief Operating Officer, and formerly our Senior Vice President, Administration, General Counsel and Secretary, is an attorney and stepson of Frank Markantonis, who is a director of Luby’s, Inc.
 
Paulette Gerukos, our Vice President of Human Resources, is the sister-in-law of Harris J. Pappas, who is a director of Luby’s, Inc.
 

45



CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
 
Our accounting policies are described in Note 1, “Nature of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies,” to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report. The Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Preparation of the financial statements requires us to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Management believes the following are critical accounting policies due to the significant, subjective and complex judgments and estimates used when preparing our consolidated financial statements. Management regularly reviews these assumptions and estimates with the Finance and Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.

Income Taxes
 
Our income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits reflect management’s best estimate of current and future taxes to be paid. We are subject to income taxes in the United States and a limited number of foreign jurisdictions, involving franchised locations in South America, Mexico, Canada and Italy. Significant judgments and estimates are required in the determination of the consolidated income tax expense. Recently, the U.S. government has indicated that corporate tax reform is a high priority and has proposed sweeping changes to the U.S. tax system. These reforms may include changes to corporate tax rates, changes in the taxation of income earned outside the United States and taxing previously unremitted foreign earnings at concessional tax rates. We cannot determine whether some or all of these or other proposals will be enacted into law or what, if any, changes may be made to such proposals prior to being enacted into law. If U.S. tax laws change in a manner that increases our tax obligations, our financial position and results of operations could be adversely impacted upon enactment, including potential impacts to our income tax expense and deferred tax balances. Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements, which will result in taxable or deductible amounts in the future, as well as from tax Net Operating Losses ("NOL") and tax credit carryovers. We establish a valuation allowance when we no longer consider it more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will be realized. In evaluating our ability to recover our deferred tax assets, we consider available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, tax-planning strategies, projected future taxable income, and results of recent operations.
 
Positive evidence that we consider includes the Company’s history of realizing fully its tax NOL and tax credit carryovers prior to expiration and the considered use of tax-planning strategies. The latter includes the acceleration of unrealized gains from our owned property locations through sale or exchange, if and when necessary on a selective basis, which we consider to be a significant piece of positive evidence. We regularly evaluate our portfolio owned properties, long-lived assets and their relative values, for many different business purposes, and have estimated the resulting unrealized net gains thereon to be of sufficient measure to recover certain of our deferred tax assets, including tax NOL and certain of our tax credit carryovers. Assessments regarding our owned property locations involve the use of significant judgment and are consistent with the plans and estimates we are using to manage the underlying businesses. Tax-planning strategies involving the acceleration of unrealized gains, as well as the reversals of our deferred tax liabilities, are of the same character and should reverse in both the same period and jurisdiction as the temporary differences giving rise to the deferred tax. In evaluating negative evidence, we consider three years of cumulative losses. A significant contributor to the Company’s three year cumulative loss involves a number of closed underperforming locations.
 
The Company has recorded a deferred tax asset of approximately $13.7 million reflecting the benefit of approximately $2.1 million in tax NOL and approximately $11.6 million tax credit carryover, which expire in varying amounts between fiscal 2022 through 2037 . Realization is dependent on numerous factors, including our ability to generate sufficient taxable income prospectively, and if necessary gain on sale of owned property locations, prior to expiration of the tax NOL and tax credit carryovers and the impacts, if any, from potential corporate tax reform legislation. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that all of the deferred tax asset will be realized. The amount of the deferred tax asset considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of unrealized appreciation of owned properties during the carryforward period are reduced or we are unable to generate positive cash flows from operations and proceeds from assets held for sale. 
 
Management makes judgments regarding the interpretation of tax laws that might be challenged upon an audit and cause changes to previous estimates of tax liability. We operate within multiple taxing jurisdictions and are subject to examination in these tax jurisdictions, as well as by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”). In management’s opinion, adequate provisions for income taxes have been made for all open income tax periods. The potential outcomes of examinations are regularly assessed in determining the adequacy of the provision for income taxes and income tax liabilities. Management believes that adequate provisions have been made for reasonable and foreseeable outcomes related to uncertain tax matters. 

46



 
Tangible Property Regulations
 
In September 2013, the U.S. Treasury issued final regulations addressing the tax consequences associated with the acquisition, production and improvement of tangible property and which are generally effective for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2014, which for the Company is its year beginning August 28, 2014. We believe our accounting policies comply with the requirements of the repair regulations and there is no materials impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
 
We periodically evaluate long-lived assets held for use and held for sale, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of those assets may not be recoverable. We analyze historical cash flows of operating locations and compare results of poorer performing locations to more profitable locations. We also analyze lease terms, condition of the assets and related need for capital expenditures or repairs, construction activity in the surrounding area as well as the economic and market conditions in the surrounding area.

For assets held for use, we estimate future cash flows using assumptions based on possible outcomes of the areas analyzed. If the undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value of our location’s assets, we record an impairment based on an estimate of discounted cash flows. The estimates of future cash flows, based on reasonable and supportable assumptions and projections, require management’s subjective judgments. Assumptions and estimates used include operating results, changes in working capital, discount rate, growth rate, anticipated net proceeds from disposition of the property and if applicable, lease terms. The span of time for which future cash flows are estimated is often lengthy, increasing the sensitivity to assumptions made. The time span is longer and could be 20 to 25 years for newer properties, but only 5 to 10 years for older properties. Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, the estimated future cash flows projected in the evaluation of long-lived assets can vary within a wide range of outcomes. We consider the likelihood of possible outcomes in determining the best estimate of future cash flows. The measurement for such an impairment loss is then based on the fair value of the asset as determined by discounted cash flows. We operated 163 restaurants as of November 7, 2017 and periodically experience unanticipated changes in our assumptions and estimates. Those changes could have a significant impact on discounted cash flow models with a corresponding significant impact on the measurement of an impairment. Gains are not recognized until the assets are disposed.
 
We evaluate the useful lives of our other intangible assets, primarily the Fuddruckers trademarks and franchise agreements to determine if they are definite or indefinite-lived. Reaching a determination of useful life requires significant judgments and assumptions regarding the future effects of obsolescence, contract term, demand, competition, other economic factors (such as the stability of the industry, legislative action that results in an uncertain or changing regulatory environment, and expected changes in distribution channels), the level of required maintenance expenditures, and the expected lives of other related groups of assets.
 
We periodically evaluate our intangible assets, primarily the Fuddruckers trademarks and franchise agreements, to determine if events or changes in circumstances such as economic or market conditions indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. We analyze historical cash flows of operating locations to determine trends that would indicate a need for impairment. We also analyze royalties and collectability from our franchisees to determine if there are trends that would indicate a need for impairment.
 
Property Held for Sale
 
We periodically review long-lived assets against our plans to retain or ultimately dispose of properties. If we decide to dispose of a property, it will be moved to property held for sale and actively marketed. Property held for sale is recorded at amounts not in excess of what management currently expects to receive upon sale, less costs of disposal. We analyze market conditions each reporting period and record additional impairments due to declines in market values of like assets. The fair value of the property is determined by observable inputs such as appraisals and prices of comparable properties in active markets for assets like ours. Gains are not recognized until the properties are sold.
 
Insurance and Claims
 
We self-insure a significant portion of risks and associated liabilities under our employee injury, workers’ compensation and general liability programs. We maintain insurance coverage with third party carriers to limit our per-occurrence claim exposure. We have recorded accrued liabilities for self-insurance based upon analysis of historical data and actuarial estimates, and we review these amounts on a quarterly basis to ensure that the liability is appropriate.

47



 
The significant assumptions made by the actuary to estimate self-insurance reserves, including incurred but not reported claims, are as follows: (1) historical patterns of loss development will continue in the future as they have in the past (Loss Development Method), (2) historical trend patterns and loss cost levels will continue in the future as they have in the past (Bornhuetter-Ferguson Method), and (3) historical claim counts and exposures are used to calculate historical frequency rates and average claim costs are analyzed to get a projected severity (Frequency and Severity Method). The results of these methods are blended by the actuary to provide the reserves estimates.
 
Actual workers’ compensation, employee injury and general liability claims expense may differ from estimated loss provisions. The ultimate level of claims under the in-house safety program are not known, and declines in incidence of claims as well as claims costs experiences or reductions in reserve requirements under the program may not continue in future periods.
 
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
 
Share-based compensation is recognized as compensation expense in the income statement utilizing the fair value on the date of the grant. The fair value of performance share based award liabilities are estimated based on a Monte Carlo simulation model. The fair value of restricted stock units is valued at the closing market price of our common stock at the date of grant. The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Assumptions for volatility, forfeitures, expected option life, risk free interest rate, and dividend yield are used in the model.

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
 
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). This update provides a comprehensive new revenue recognition model that requires a company to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount that reflects the consideration it expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts. This update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period, which will require us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. Early application is not permitted. This update permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. Further, in March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016–08, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers: Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net),” which clarifies the guidance in ASU No. 2014–09 for evaluating when another party, along with the entity, is involved in providing a good or service to a customer. In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016–10, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers: Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing,” which clarifies the guidance in ASU No. 2014–09 regarding assessing whether promises to transfer goods or services are distinct, and whether an entity's promise to grant a license provides a customer with a right to use or right to access the entity's intellectual property. The Company plans to adopt the standard in the first quarter of fiscal 2019, which is the first fiscal quarter of the annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2017. We have not yet decided on a method of transition upon adoption. The Company expects the pronouncement may impact the recognition of the initial franchise fee, which is currently recognized upon the opening of a franchise restaurant. We are further evaluating the effect this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No 2014-15. The amendments in ASU 2014-15 are intended to define management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an organization’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. Under GAAP, financial statements are prepared under the presumption that the reporting organization will continue to operate as a going concern, except in limited circumstances. The going concern basis of accounting is critical to financial reporting because it establishes the fundamental basis for measuring and classifying assets and liabilities. Currently, GAAP lacks guidance about management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about the organization’s ability to continue as a going concern or to provide related footnote disclosures. This ASU provides guidance to an organization’s management, with principles and definitions that are intended to reduce diversity in the timing and content of disclosures that are commonly provided by organizations today in the financial statement footnotes. The pronouncement is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, after December 31, 2016, which requires us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. The adoption of this pronouncement is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.


48



In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory (Topic 330). This update requires inventory within the scope of the standard to be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is defined as the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016, which requires us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes (Topic 740). This update requires that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent in a classified balance sheet. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016. This update may be applied either prospectively to all deferred tax liabilities and assets or respectively to all periods presented. Management has determined to apply the update on a prospective basis to all deferred tax liabilities and assets, which requires us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). This update requires a lessee to recognize on the balance sheet a liability to make lease payments and a corresponding right-of-use asset. The update also requires additional disclosures about the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018, which will require us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2020. This standard requires adoption based upon a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements, with optional practical expedients. Based on a preliminary assessment, the Company expects that most of its operating lease commitments will be subject to the new guidance and recognized as operating lease liabilities and right–of-use assets upon adoption, resulting in a significant increase in the assets and liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet. The Company is continuing its assessment, which may identify additional impacts this standard will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (Topic 718). This update was issued as part of the FASB’s simplification initiative and affects all entities that issue share-based payment awards to their employees. The amendments in this update cover such areas as the recognition of excess tax benefits and deficiencies, the classification of those excess tax benefits on the statement of cash flows, an accounting policy election for forfeitures, the amount an employer can withhold to cover income taxes and still qualify for equity classification and the classification of those taxes paid on the statement of cash flows. This update is effective for annual and interim periods for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, which requires us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We are evaluating the impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and have not yet selected a transition method.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016–04, “Liabilities – Extinguishment of Liabilities: Recognition of Breakage for Certain Prepaid Stored–Value Products,” which is intended to eliminate current and future diversity in practice related to derecognition of prepaid stored–value product liability in a way that aligns with the new revenue recognition guidance. The update is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017; however, early application is permitted. We are are evaluating the impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements and do not expect the adoption to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230). This update provides clarification regarding how certain cash receipts and cash payment are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. This update addresses eight specific cash flow issues with the objective of reducing the existing diversity in practice. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017, which will require us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2019 using a retrospective approach. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
INFLATION
 
It is generally our policy to maintain stable menu prices without regard to seasonal variations in food costs. Certain increases in costs of food, wages, supplies, transportation and services may require us to increase our menu prices from time to time. To the extent prevailing market conditions allow, we intend to adjust menu prices to maintain profit margins.
 


49



Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
We are exposed to interest rate risk due to changes in interest rates affecting our variable-rate debt, Term Loan and borrowings under our 2016 Revolver. As of fiscal year-end 2017 , the total amount of debt subject to interest rate fluctuations outstanding under our Revolver and Term Loan was approximately $13.5 million. Assuming an average debt balance with interest rate exposure of approximately $13.5 million, a 100 basis point increase in prevailing interest rates would increase our annual interest expense by approximately $0.1 million. The interest rate on our remaining $17.5 million in outstanding debt is fixed plus an applicable margin based on our CTLAL at each determination date, beginning December 14, 2016, under the terms of our interest rate swap agreement. Under the terms of our 2016 Credit Agreement, we are required to manage interest rate risk, utilizing interest rate swaps, on at least 50% of our 2016 Credit Agreement variable rate debt (Term Loan). Prior to November 8, 2016, we did not utilize any interest rate swaps to manage interest rate risk on our variable rate 2013 Credit Facility debt.
 
We have exposure to various foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations for revenues generated by our operations outside of the United States, which can adversely impact our net income and cash flows. Approximately 0.12%, 0.13%, and 0.12% of our total revenues in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively, were derived from sales to customers and royalties from franchisees outside the contiguous United States. All of this business is conducted in the local currency of the country the franchise operates. We do not enter into financial instruments to manage this foreign currency exchange risk.
 
Many ingredients in the products sold in our restaurants are commodities, subject to unpredictable price fluctuations. We attempt to minimize price volatility by negotiating fixed price contracts for the supply of key ingredients and in some cases by passing increased commodity costs through to the customer by adjusting menu prices or menu offerings. Our ingredients are available from multiple suppliers so we are not dependent on a single vendor for our ingredients. 

50




Item  8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
 
Board of Directors and Shareholders
Luby’s, Inc.
 
 
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Luby’s, Inc. (a Delaware corporation) and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016 , and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended August 30, 2017 . These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these 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, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Luby’s, Inc. and subsidiaries as of August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016 , and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended August 30, 2017 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
 
We also have 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 30, 2017 , based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework-2013 issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO ), and our report dated November 13, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion.
 
/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP
 
Houston, Texas
November 13, 2017

51



REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
Board of Directors and Shareholders
Luby’s, Inc.
 
 
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Luby’s, Inc. (a Delaware corporation) and its subsidiaries (the "Company") as of August 30, 2017 , based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
 
We conducted our audit 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 effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
 
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of August 30, 2017 , based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by COSO.
 
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements of the Company as of and for the year ended August 30, 2017 , and our report dated November 13, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.
 
/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP 
 
Houston, Texas
November 13, 2017

52





Luby’s, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
 
August 30,
2017
August 31,
2016
 
(In thousands, except share data)
ASSETS
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
1,096

$
1,339

Trade accounts and other receivables, net
8,011

5,919

Food and supply inventories
4,453

4,596

Prepaid expenses
3,431

3,147

Assets related to discontinued operations

1

Deferred income taxes

540

Total current assets
16,991

15,542

Property held for sale
3,372

5,522

Assets related to discontinued operations
2,755

3,192

Property and equipment, net
172,814

193,218

Intangible assets, net
19,640

21,074

Goodwill
1,068

1,605

Deferred income taxes
7,254

8,738

Other assets
2,563

3,334

Total assets
$
226,457

$
252,225

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
 
Current Liabilities:
 
 
Accounts payable
$
15,937

$
17,539

Liabilities related to discontinued operations
367

412

Current portion of credit facility debt


Accrued expenses and other liabilities
28,076

23,752

Total current liabilities
44,380

41,703

Credit facility debt, less current portion
30,698

37,000

Liabilities related to discontinued operations
16

17

Other liabilities
7,311

7,752

Total liabilities
82,405

86,472

Commitments and Contingencies


SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
 
Common stock, $0.32 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; Shares issued were 29,624,083 and 29,440,041, respectively; Shares outstanding were 29,124,083 and 28,940,041, respectively
9,480

9,421

Paid-in capital
31,850

30,348

Retained earnings
107,497

130,759

Less cost of treasury stock, 500,000 shares
(4,775
)
(4,775
)
Total shareholders’ equity
144,052

165,753

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
226,457

$
252,225

 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

53




Luby’s, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
 
 
Year Ended
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
August 26, 2015
 
(In thousands,   except per share data)
SALES:
 
 
 
 
 
Restaurant sales
$
350,818

 
$
378,111

 
$
370,192

Culinary contract services
17,943

 
16,695

 
16,401

Franchise revenue
6,723

 
7,250

 
6,961

Vending revenue
547

 
583

 
531

TOTAL SALES
376,031

 
402,639

 
394,085

COSTS AND EXPENSES:
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of food
98,714

 
106,980

 
107,052

Payroll and related costs
125,997

 
132,960

 
127,691

Other operating expenses
61,924

 
60,961

 
63,133

Occupancy costs
21,787

 
22,374

 
21,084

Opening costs
492

 
787

 
2,743

Cost of culinary contract services
15,774

 
14,955

 
14,786

Cost of franchise operations
1,733

 
1,877

 
1,668

Depreciation and amortization
20,438

 
21,889

 
21,407

Selling, general and administrative expenses
37,878

 
42,422

 
38,759

Provision for asset impairments and restaurant closings
10,567

 
1,442

 
636

Net gain on disposition of property and equipment
(1,804
)
 
(684
)
 
(3,994
)
Total costs and expenses
393,500

 
405,963

 
394,965

LOSS FROM OPERATIONS
(17,469
)
 
(3,324
)
 
(880
)
Interest income
8

 
4

 
4

Interest expense
(2,443
)
 
(2,247
)
 
(2,337
)
Other income (expense), net
(454
)
 
186

 
521

Loss before income taxes and discontinued operations
(20,358
)
 
(5,381
)
 
(2,692
)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
2,438

 
4,875

 
(1,076
)
Loss from continuing operations
(22,796
)
 
(10,256
)
 
(1,616
)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
(466
)
 
(90
)
 
(458
)
NET LOSS
$
(23,262
)
 
$
(10,346
)
 
$
(2,074
)
Loss per share from continuing operations:
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.77
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.06
)
Assuming dilution
$
(0.77
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.06
)
Loss per share from discontinued operations:
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.00
)
 
$
(0.01
)
Assuming dilution
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.00
)
 
$
(0.01
)
Net loss per share:
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.79
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.07
)
Assuming dilution
$
(0.79
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.07
)
Weighted-average shares outstanding:
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
29,476

 
29,226

 
28,974

Assuming dilution
29,476

 
29,226

 
28,974

 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

54



Luby’s, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
(In thousands)
  
 
Common Stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issued
 
Treasury
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Paid-In
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Total
Shareholders’
Equity
Balance at August 27, 2014
28,950

 
$
9,264

 
(500
)
 
$
(4,775
)
 
$
27,356

 
$
143,179

 
$
175,024

Net income for the year

 

 

 

 

 
(2,074
)
 
(2,074
)
Common stock issued under nonemployee director benefit plans
40

 
13

 

 

 
(13
)
 

 

Common stock issued under employee benefit plans
82

 
26

 

 

 
164

 

 
190

Increase in excess tax benefits from share-based compensation

 

 

 

 
5

 

 
5

Share-based compensation expense
63

 
20

 

 

 
1,494

 

 
1,514

Balance at August 26, 2015
29,135

 
$
9,323

 
(500
)
 
$
(4,775
)
 
$
29,006

 
$
141,105

 
$
174,659

Net loss for the year

 

 

 

 

 
(10,346
)
 
(10,346
)
Common stock issued under nonemployee director benefit plans
60

 
19

 

 

 
(19
)
 

 

Common stock issued under employee benefit plans
177

 
57

 

 

 
25

 

 
82

Increase in excess tax benefits from share-based compensation

 

 

 

 
(119
)
 

 
(119
)
Share-based compensation expense
68

 
22

 

 

 
1,455

 

 
1,477

Balance at August 31, 2016
29,440

 
$
9,421

 
(500
)
 
$
(4,775
)
 
$
30,348

 
$
130,759

 
$
165,753

Net loss for the year

 

 

 

 

 
(23,262
)
 
(23,262
)
Common stock issued under nonemployee director benefit plans
83

 
26

 

 

 
(26
)
 

 

Common stock issued under employee benefit plans
7

 
2

 

 

 
(2
)
 

 

Share-based compensation expense
94

 
31

 

 

 
1,530

 

 
1,561

Balance at August 30, 2017
29,624

 
$
9,480

 
(500
)
 
$
(4,775
)
 
$
31,850

 
$
107,497

 
$
144,052

 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

55



Luby’s, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
 
 
Year Ended
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
August 26, 2015
 
(In thousands)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss
$
(23,262
)
 
$
(10,346
)
 
$
(2,074
)
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Provision for asset impairments and net loss (gain) on property sales
8,762

 
734

 
(3,385
)
Depreciation and amortization
20,438

 
21,906

 
21,431

Amortization of debt issuance cost
348

 
313

 
204

Share-based compensation expense
1,561

 
1,477

 
1,514

Excess tax deficit (benefit) from share-based compensation

 
119

 
(5
)
Deferred tax provision (benefit)
2,792

 
4,707

 
(1,996
)
Cash provided by operating activities before changes in operating asset and liabilities
10,639

 
18,910

 
15,689

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
Increase in trade accounts and other receivables
(2,092
)
 
(744
)
 
(1,063
)
Decrease (Increase) in food and supply inventories
143

 
(616
)
 
1,073

Decrease (Increase) in prepaid expenses and other assets
504

 
215

 
(268
)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
446

 
(3,906
)
 
(5,115
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
9,640

 
13,859

 
10,316

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from disposal of assets and property held for sale
9,286

 
4,794

 
13,278

Repayment of note receivable

 
17

 
57

Purchases of property and equipment
(12,502
)
 
(18,253
)
 
(20,378
)
Net cash used in investing activities
(3,216
)
 
(13,442
)
 
(7,043
)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
Revolver borrowings
107,800

 
106,000

 
108,000

Revolver repayments
(140,400
)
 
(106,500
)
 
(112,500
)
Debt issuance costs
(652
)
 
(42
)
 
(255
)
Proceeds on term loan
35,000

 

 

Term loan repayments
(8,415
)
 

 

Excess tax (deficit) benefit from share-based compensation

 
(119
)
 
5

Proceeds received on the exercise of employee stock options

 
82

 
190

Net cash used in financing activities
(6,667
)
 
(579
)
 
(4,560
)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(243
)
 
(162
)
 
(1,287
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
1,339

 
1,501

 
2,788

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
1,096

 
$
1,339

 
$
1,501

Cash paid for:
 
 
 
 
 
Income taxes
$
411

 
$
357

 
$
730

Interest
1,787

 
1,873

 
2,133

 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements. 

56



Luby’s, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Fiscal Years 2017 , 2016 , and 2015
 
Note 1. Nature of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies
 
Nature of Operations
 
Luby’s, Inc. is based in Houston, Texas. As of August 30, 2017 , the Company owned and operated 167 restaurants, with 122 in Texas and the remainder in other states. In addition, the Company received royalties from 113 franchises as of August 30, 2017 located primarily throughout the United States. The Company’s owned and franchised restaurant locations are convenient to shopping and business developments, as well as, to residential areas. Accordingly, the restaurants appeal to a variety of customers at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Culinary Contract Services consists of contract arrangements to manage food services for clients operating in primarily three lines of business: healthcare, higher education, and corporate dining.
 
Principles of Consolidation
 
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Luby’s, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Luby’s, Inc. was restructured into a holding company on February 1, 1997, at which time all of the operating assets were transferred to Luby’s Restaurants Limited Partnership, a Texas limited partnership consisting of two wholly owned, indirect corporate subsidiaries of the Company. On July 9, 2010, Luby’s Restaurants Limited Partnership was converted into Luby’s Fuddruckers Restaurants, LLC, a Texas limited liability company (“LFR”). Unless the context indicates otherwise, the word “Company” as used herein includes Luby’s, Inc., LFR, and the consolidated subsidiaries of Luby’s, Inc. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.  
 
Reportable Segments
 
Each restaurant is an operating segment because operating results and cash flow can be determined for each restaurant which is regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker. The Company has three reportable segments: Company-owned restaurants, franchise operations, and Culinary Contract Services (“CCS”). Company-owned restaurants are aggregated into one reportable segment because the nature of the products and services, the production processes, the customers, the methods used to distribute the products and services, and the nature of the regulatory environment are alike.
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
Cash and cash equivalents include highly liquid investments such as money market funds that have a maturity of three months or less. All of the Company’s bank account balances are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. However, balances in money market fund accounts are not insured. Amounts in transit from credit card companies are also considered cash equivalents because they are both short-term and highly liquid in nature and are typically converted to cash within three days of the sales transaction.
 
Trade Accounts and Other Receivables, net
 
Receivables consist principally of amounts due from franchises, culinary contract service clients, catering customers and restaurant food sales to corporations. Receivables are recorded at the invoiced amount. The allowance for doubtful accounts is the Company’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in the Company’s existing accounts receivable. The Company determines the allowance based on historical loss experience for contract service clients, catering customers and restaurant sales to corporations. The Company determines the allowance for CCS receivables and franchise royalty and marketing and advertising receivables based on the franchisees’ and CCS clients’ unsecured default status. The Company periodically reviews its allowance for doubtful accounts. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote.
 
Inventories
 
Food and supply inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market.  



 

57



Property Held for Sale
 
The Company periodically reviews long-lived assets against its plans to retain or ultimately dispose of properties. If the Company decides to dispose of a property, it will be moved to property held for sale and actively marketed. Property held for sale is recorded at amounts not in excess of what management currently expects to receive upon sale, less costs of disposal. Depreciation on assets moved to property held for sale is discontinued and gains are not recognized until the properties are sold.
 
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
 
Impairment losses are recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the carrying amount. The Company evaluates impairments on a restaurant-by-restaurant basis and uses cash flow results and other market conditions as indicators of impairment.

Debt Issuance Costs
 
Debt issuance costs include costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of long-term financing agreements. The debt issuance costs associated with the Term Loan are presented on the Balance Sheet as a direct deduction from long-term debt. The debt issue costs associated with the Revolver are presented on the Balance Sheet as an asset. These costs are amortized using the effective interest method over the respective term of the debt to which they specifically relate.
 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts and other receivables, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximates fair value based on the short-term nature of these accounts. The carrying value of credit facility debt also approximates fair value based on its recent renewal.
 
Self-Insurance Accrued Expenses
 
The Company self-insures a significant portion of expected losses under its workers’ compensation, employee injury and general liability programs. Accrued liabilities have been recorded based on estimates of the ultimate costs to settle incurred claims, both reported and not yet reported. These recorded estimated liabilities are based on judgments and independent actuarial estimates, which include the use of claim development factors based on loss history; economic conditions; the frequency or severity of claims and claim development patterns; and claim reserve management settlement practices.
 
Revenue Recognition
 
Revenue from restaurant sales is recognized when food and beverage products are sold. Unearned revenues are recorded as a liability for gift cards that have been sold but not yet redeemed and are recorded at their expected redemption value. When gift cards are redeemed, revenue is recognized, and unearned revenue is reduced.
 
Revenue from culinary contract services is recognized when services are provided and reimbursable costs are incurred within contractual terms.
 
Revenue from franchise royalties is recognized each fiscal period based on contractual royalty rates applied to the franchise’s restaurant sales each fiscal period. Royalties are accrued as earned and are calculated each period based on the franchisee’s reported sales. Area development fees and franchise fees are recognized as revenue when the Company has performed all material obligations and initial services. Area development fees are recognized proportionately with the opening of each new restaurant, which generally occurs upon the opening of the new restaurant. Until earned, these fees are accounted for as an accrued liability.
 
Cost of CCS
 
The cost of CCS includes all food, payroll and related expenses, other operating expenses, and selling, general and administrative expenses related to culinary contract service sales. All depreciation and amortization, property disposal, and asset impairment expenses associated with CCS are reported within those respective lines as applicable.
 

58



Cost of Franchise Operations
 
The cost of franchise operations includes all food, payroll and related expenses, other operating expenses, and selling, general and administrative expenses related to franchise operations sales. All depreciation and amortization, property disposal, and asset impairment expenses associated with franchise operations are reported within those respective lines as applicable.
 
Marketing and Advertising Expenses
 
Marketing and advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Total advertising expense included in other operating expenses and selling, general and administrative expense was $5.7 million , $6.3 million , and $4.4 million in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively.  We record advertising attributable to local store marketing and local community involvement efforts in other operating expenses; we record advertising attributable to our brand identity, our promotional offers, and our other marketing messages intended to drive guest awareness of our brands, in selling, general, and administrative expenses.  We believe this separation of our marketing and advertising costs assists with measurement of the profitability of individual restaurant locations by associating only the local store marketing efforts with the operations of each restaurant.
 
Marketing and advertising expense included in other operating expenses attributable to local store marketing was $0.6 million , $0.7 million , and $1.2 million in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively.

Marketing and advertising expense included in selling, general and administrative expense was $5.1 million , $5.6 million , and $3.2 million in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively.
 
Depreciation and Amortization
 
Property and equipment are recorded at cost. The Company depreciates the cost of equipment over its estimated useful life using the straight-line method. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of their estimated useful lives or the related lease terms. Depreciation of buildings is provided on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives.
 
Opening Costs
 
Opening costs are expenditures related to the opening of new restaurants through its opening periods, other than those for capital assets. Such costs are charged to expense when incurred.
 
Operating Leases
 
The Company leases restaurant and administrative facilities and administrative equipment under operating leases. Building lease agreements generally include rent holidays, rent escalation clauses and contingent rent provisions for a percentage of sales in excess of specified levels. Contingent rental expenses are recognized prior to the achievement of a specified target, provided that the achievement of the target is considered probable. Most of the Company’s lease agreements include renewal periods at the Company’s option. The Company recognizes rent holiday periods and scheduled rent increases on a straight-line basis over the lease term beginning with the date the Company takes possession of the leased space.  
 
Income Taxes
 
The estimated future tax effects of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, as well as operating loss and tax credit carrybacks and carryforwards are recorded. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities (temporary differences) and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is recognized if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not a portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be recognized.
 
Management makes judgments regarding the interpretation of tax laws that might be challenged upon an audit and cause changes to previous estimates of tax liability. In addition, the Company operates within multiple taxing jurisdictions and is subject to audit in these jurisdictions as well as by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”). In management’s opinion, adequate provisions for income taxes have been made for all open tax years. The potential outcomes of examinations are regularly assessed in determining the adequacy of the provision for income taxes and income tax liabilities. Management believes that adequate provisions have been made for reasonably possible outcomes related to uncertain tax matters.
 

59



Sales Taxes
 
The Company presents sales taxes on a net basis (excluded from revenue).
 
Discontinued Operations
 
Management evaluates unit closures for presentation in discontinued operations following guidance from ASC 205-20-55. To qualify for presentation as a discontinued operation, management determines if the closure or exit of a business location or activity meets the following conditions: (1) the operations and cash flows of the component have been (or will be) eliminated from the ongoing operations of the entity as a result of the disposal transaction and (2) there will not be any significant continuing involvement in the operations of the component after the disposal transaction. To evaluate whether these conditions are met, management considers whether the cash flows lost will not be recovered and generated by the ongoing entity, the level of guest traffic and sales transfer, the significance of the number of locations closed and expectancy of cash flow replacement by sales from new and existing locations, as well as the level of continuing involvement in the disposed operation. Operating and non-operating results of these locations are then classified and reported as discontinued operations of all periods presented. As of fiscal 2016, management evaluates unit closures for presentation in discontinued operations following guidance from ASU 2014-08. Beginning in fiscal 2016, in accordance with ASU No. 2014-08, the Company will only report the disposal of a component or a group of components of the Company in discontinued operations if the disposal of the components or group of components represents a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results. Adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Share-Based Compensation
 
Share-based compensation expense is estimated for equity awards at fair value at the grant date. The Company determines fair value of restricted stock awards based on the average of the high and low price of its common stock on the date awarded by the Board of Directors. The Company determines the fair value of stock option awards using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Black-Scholes option pricing model requires various judgmental assumptions including the expected dividend yield, stock price volatility, and the expected life of the award. If any of the assumptions used in the model change significantly, share-based compensation expense may differ materially in the future, from that recorded in the current period. The fair value of performance share based award liabilities are estimated based on a Monte Carlo simulation model. For further discussion, see Note 14, “Share-Based Compensation,” below.
 
Earnings Per Share
 
Basic income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding, including restricted stock units, during each period presented. For the calculation of diluted net income per share, the basic weighted average number of shares is increased by the dilutive effect of stock options, determined using the treasury stock method.
 
Accounting Periods
 
The Company’s fiscal year ends on the last Wednesday in August. Accordingly, each fiscal year normally consists of 13 four-week periods, or accounting periods, accounting for 364 days in the aggregate. However, every fifth or sixth year, we have a fiscal year that consists of 53 weeks, accounting for 371 days in the aggregate; fiscal 2016 was such a year. Each of the first three quarters of each fiscal year, prior to fiscal 2016, consisted of three four-week periods, while the fourth quarter normally consists of four four-week periods.
  
Beginning in fiscal 2016, we changed our fiscal quarter ending dates with the first fiscal quarter end was extended by one accounting period and the fiscal fourth quarter was reduced by one accounting period. The purpose of this change is in part to minimize the Thanksgiving calendar shift by extending the first fiscal quarter until after Thanksgiving. With this change in fiscal quarter ending dates, our first quarter is 16 weeks, and the remaining three quarters will typically be 12 weeks in length. The fourth fiscal quarter will be 13 weeks in certain fiscal years to adjust for our standard 52 week, or 364 day, fiscal year compared to the 365 day calendar year. Fiscal 2016 was such a year where the fourth quarter included 13 weeks, resulting in a 53 week fiscal year. Comparability between quarters may be affected by varying lengths of the quarters, as well as the seasonality associated with the restaurant business.
 

60



Use of Estimates
 
In preparing financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. This update requires that debt issuance costs be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the associated debt liability. Debt issuance costs related to the Company's new 2016 Credit Agreement (defined hereafter) amounted to $0.6 million . The portion of the debt issuance costs associated with the Term Loan (defined hereafter) are setup as a direct deduction from long-term debt. The adoption of this update did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. See Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis in this Form-10K for more discussion on debt issuance costs.
In January 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2017–04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment (“ASU 2017-04”). This guidance eliminates the requirement to determine the implied fair value of goodwill to measure an impairment of goodwill. Rather, goodwill impairment charges will be calculated as the amount by which a reporting unit's carrying amount exceeds its fair value. Adoption of the provisions in ASU 2017-04 is required for the Company for its annual or any interim goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates on or after January 1, 2017. The Company adopted ASU 2017-04 in the quarter ended March 15, 2017. The provisions of ASU 2017-04 did not have a material effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
New Accounting Pronouncements - "to be Adopted"
 
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). This update provides a comprehensive new revenue recognition model that requires a company to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount that reflects the consideration it expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts. This update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period, which will require us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. Early application is not permitted. This update permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. Further, in March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016–08, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers: Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net),” which clarifies the guidance in ASU No. 2014–09 for evaluating when another party, along with the entity, is involved in providing a good or service to a customer. In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016–10, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers: Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing,” which clarifies the guidance in ASU No. 2014–09 regarding assessing whether promises to transfer goods or services are distinct, and whether an entity's promise to grant a license provides a customer with a right to use or right to access the entity's intellectual property. The Company plans to adopt the standard in the first quarter of fiscal 2019, which is the first fiscal quarter of the annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2017. We have not yet decided on a method of transition upon adoption. The Company expects the pronouncement may impact the recognition of the initial franchise fee, which is currently recognized upon the opening of a franchise restaurant. We are further evaluating the effect this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No 2014-15. The amendments in ASU 2014-15 are intended to define management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an organization’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. Under GAAP, financial statements are prepared under the presumption that the reporting organization will continue to operate as a going concern, except in limited circumstances. The going concern basis of accounting is critical to financial reporting because it establishes the fundamental basis for measuring and classifying assets and liabilities. Currently, GAAP lacks guidance about management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about the organization’s ability to continue as a going concern or to provide related footnote disclosures. This ASU provides guidance to an organization’s management, with principles and definitions that are intended to reduce diversity in the timing and content of disclosures that are commonly provided by organizations today in the financial statement footnotes. The pronouncement is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, after December 31, 2016, which requires us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. The adoption of this pronouncement is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.


61



In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory (Topic 330). This update requires inventory within the scope of the standard to be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is defined as the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016, which requires us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes (Topic 740). This update requires that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent in a classified balance sheet. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016, which requires us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). This update requires a lessee to recognize on the balance sheet a liability to make lease payments and a corresponding right-of-use asset. The update also requires additional disclosures about the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018, which will require us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2020. This standard requires adoption based upon a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements, with optional practical expedients. Based on a preliminary assessment, the Company expects that most of its operating lease commitments will be subject to the new guidance and recognized as operating lease liabilities and right–of-use assets upon adoption, resulting in a significant increase in the assets and liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet. The Company is continuing its assessment, which may identify additional impacts this standard will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (Topic 718). This update was issued as part of the FASB’s simplification initiative and affects all entities that issue share-based payment awards to their employees. The amendments in this update cover such areas as the recognition of excess tax benefits and deficiencies, the classification of those excess tax benefits on the statement of cash flows, an accounting policy election for forfeitures, the amount an employer can withhold to cover income taxes and still qualify for equity classification and the classification of those taxes paid on the statement of cash flows. This update is effective for annual and interim periods for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, which requires us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We are evaluating the impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and have not yet selected a transition method.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016–04, “Liabilities – Extinguishment of Liabilities: Recognition of Breakage for Certain Prepaid Stored–Value Products,” which is intended to eliminate current and future diversity in practice related to derecognition of prepaid stored–value product liability in a way that aligns with the new revenue recognition guidance. The update is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017; however, early application is permitted. We are are evaluating the impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements and do not expect the adoption to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230). This update provides clarification regarding how certain cash receipts and cash payment are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. This update addresses eight specific cash flow issues with the objective of reducing the existing diversity in practice. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017, which will require us to adopt these provisions in the first quarter of fiscal 2019 using a retrospective approach. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Subsequent Events
 
Events subsequent to the Company’s fiscal year ended August 30, 2017 through the date of issuance of the financial statements are evaluated to determine if the nature and significance of the event warrants inclusion in the Company’s annual report.



 

62



Note 2. Reportable Segments
 
The Company has three reportable segments: Company-owned restaurants, franchise operations and Culinary Contract Services.
 
Company-owned restaurants
 
Company-owned restaurants consists of several brands which are aggregated into one reportable segment because of the nature of the products and services, the production processes, the customers, the methods used to distribute the products and services, the nature of the regulatory environment, and store level profit margin are similar. The chief operating decision maker analyzes Company-owned restaurant store level profit which is defined as restaurant sales and vending revenue, less cost of food, payroll and related costs, other operating expenses, and occupancy costs. The primary brands are Luby’s Cafeteria, Fuddruckers - World’s Greatest Hamburgers ® , and Cheeseburger in Paradise. All Company-owned restaurants are casual dining restaurants. Each restaurant is an operating segment because operating results and cash flow can be determined for each restaurant.
 
The total number of Company-owned restaurants at the end of fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 were 167 , 175 , and 177 , respectively.

Culinary Contract Services
 
CCS, branded as Luby’s Culinary Contract Services, consists of a business line servicing healthcare, sport stadiums, corporate dining clients, and sales through retail grocery stores. The healthcare accounts are full service and typically include in-room delivery, catering, vending, coffee service, and retail dining. CCS had contracts with long-term acute care hospitals, acute care medical centers, ambulatory surgical centers, behavioral hospitals, a sports stadium, and business and industry clients. CCS has the unique ability to deliver quality services that include facility design and procurement as well as nutrition and branded food services to our clients. The costs of Culinary Contract Services on the Consolidated Statements of Operations includes all food, payroll and related costs, other operating expenses, and other direct general and administrative expenses related to CCS sales.

CCS began selling Luby's Famous Fried Fish and Macaroni & Cheese in February 2017 and December 2016, respectively, in the freezer section of H-E-B stores, a Texas-born retailer. H-E-B stores now stock the family-sized versions (approximately five servings) of Luby's Classic Macaroni and Cheese and Luby's Jalapeño Macaroni and Cheese varieties and Luby's Fried Fish ( two regular size fillets that provide four LuAnn-sized portions).
 
The total number of CCS contracts at the end of fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 were 25 , 24 , and 23 , respectively.
 
Franchise Operations
 
We only offer franchises for the Fuddruckers brand. Franchises are sold in markets where expansion is deemed advantageous to the development of the Fuddruckers concept and system of restaurants. Initial franchise agreements have a term of 20 years. Franchise agreements typically grant franchisees an exclusive territorial license to operate a single restaurant within a specified area, usually a four-mile radius surrounding the franchised restaurant.
 
Franchisees bear all direct costs involved in the development, construction, and operation of their restaurants. In exchange for a franchise fee, the Company provides franchise assistance in the following areas: site selection, prototypical architectural plans, interior and exterior design and layout, training, marketing and sales techniques, assistance by a Fuddruckers “opening team” at the time a franchised restaurant opens, and operations and accounting guidelines set forth in various policies and procedures manuals.
  
All franchisees are required to operate their restaurants in accordance with Fuddruckers standards and specifications, including controls over menu items, food quality, and preparation. The Company requires the successful completion of its training program by a minimum of three managers for each franchised restaurant. In addition, franchised restaurants are evaluated regularly by the Company for compliance with franchise agreements, including standards and specifications through the use of periodic, unannounced, on-site inspections and standards evaluation reports.
 
The number of franchised restaurants at the end of fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 were 113 , 113 , and 106 , respectively.



63



Segment Table

The table on the following page shows financial information as required by ASC 280 for segment reporting. ASC 280 requires depreciation and amortization be disclosed for each reportable segment, even if not used by the chief operating decision maker. The table also lists total assets for each reportable segment. Corporate assets include cash and cash equivalents, tax refunds receivable, property and equipment, assets related to discontinued operations, property held for sale, deferred tax assets, and prepaid expenses.

64




 
Fiscal Year   Ended
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
August 26, 2015
 
(In thousands)
Sales:
 
 
 
 
 
Company-owned restaurants (1)
$
351,365

 
$
378,694

 
$
370,723

Culinary contract services
17,943

 
16,695

 
16,401

Franchise operations
6,723

 
7,250

 
6,961

Total
$
376,031

 
$
402,639

 
$
394,085

Segment level profit:
 
 
 
 
 
Company-owned restaurants
$
42,943

 
$
55,419

 
$
51,763

Culinary contract services
2,169

 
1,740

 
1,615

Franchise operations
4,990

 
5,373

 
5,293

Total
$
50,102

 
$
62,532

 
$
58,671

Depreciation and amortization:
 
 
 
 
 
Company-owned restaurants
$
16,948

 
$
18,181

 
$
18,120

Culinary contract services
64

 
103

 
177

Franchise operations
770

 
784

 
767

Corporate
2,656

 
2,821

 
2,343

Total
$
20,438

 
$
21,889

 
$
21,407

Total assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Company-owned restaurants (2)
$
189,990

 
$
211,182

 
$
218,492

Culinary contract services
3,342

 
3,390

 
1,644

Franchise operations (3)
11,325

 
12,266

 
13,034

Corporate
21,800

 
25,387

 
31,088

Total
$
226,457

 
$
252,225

 
$
264,258

Capital expenditures:
 
 
 
 
 
Company-owned restaurants
$
11,374

 
$
17,258

 
$
19,726

Culinary contract services
3

 
28

 
18

Corporate
1,125

 
967

 
634

Total
$
12,502

 
$
18,253

 
$
20,378

Loss before income taxes and discontinued operations:
 
 
 
 
 
Segment level profit
$
50,102

 
$
62,532

 
$
58,671

Opening costs
(492
)
 
(787
)
 
(2,743
)
Depreciation and amortization
(20,438
)
 
(21,889
)
 
(21,407
)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
(37,878
)
 
(42,422
)
 
(38,759
)
Provision for asset impairments and restaurant closings, net
(10,567
)
 
(1,442
)
 
(636
)
Net gain on disposition of property and equipment
1,804

 
684

 
3,994

Interest income
8

 
4

 
4

Interest expense
(2,443
)
 
(2,247
)
 
(2,337
)
Other income, net
(454
)
 
186

 
521

Total
$
(20,358
)
 
$
(5,381
)
 
$
(2,692
)
(1) Includes vending revenue of $547 , $583 , and $531 thousand for the year ended August 30, 2017 August 31, 2016 , and August 26, 2015 , respectively. 
(2) Company-owned restaurants segment includes $9.1 million of Fuddruckers trade name, Cheeseburger in Paradise liquor licenses, and Jimmy Buffett intangibles.
(3) Franchise operations segment includes approximately $10.7 million in royalty intangibles.

65



Note 3. Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company enters into derivative instruments, from time to time, to manage its exposure to changes in interest rates on a percentage of its long-term variable rate debt. On December 14, 2016 , the Company entered into an interest rate swap, pay fixed - receive floating, with a constant notional amount of $17.5 million . The fixed swap rate we pay is 1.965% , plus an applicable margin. The variable rate we receive is one-month LIBOR, plus an applicable margin. The term of the interest rate swap is 5 years . The Company does not apply hedge accounting treatment to this derivative, therefore, changes in fair value of the instrument are recognized in Other income (expense), net. In fiscal 2017 , the changes in the interest rate swap fair value resulted in an expense of approximately $266 thousand .

The Company does not hold or use derivative instruments for trading purposes.

Note 4. Fair Value Measurement
 
GAAP establishes a framework for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities, and expands disclosure about fair value measurements. Fair value measurements guidance applies whenever other statements require or permit assets or liabilities to be measured at fair value.
 
GAAP establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. These include:

Level 1: Defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reporting date. Active markets are those in which transactions for the asset or liability occur in sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis.

Level 2: Defined as pricing inputs other than quoted prices in active markets included in Level 1, which are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reporting date. Level 2 includes those financial instruments that are valued using models or other valuation methodologies. These models are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including quoted forward prices for commodities, time value, volatility factors, and current market and contractual prices for the underlying instruments, as well as other relevant economic measures.

Level 3: Defined as pricing inputs that are unobservable from objective sources. These inputs may be used with internally developed methodologies that result in management's best estimate of fair value.
 
Recurring fair value measurements related to liabilities are presented below:
 
 
 
Fair Value
Measurement Using
 
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended August 30, 2017
 
Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Valuation Method
Recurring Fair Value - Liabilities
 
 
(In thousands)
 
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TSR Performance Based Incentive Plan (1)
$
831

 
$

 
$
831

 
$

 
Monte Carlo Approach
Derivative - Interest Rate Swap (2)
$
266

 
$

 
$
266

 
$

 
Discounted Cash Flow
Total liabilities at Fair Value
$
1,097

 
$

 
$
1,097

 
$

 
 
(1) The fair value of the Company's 2015, 2016, and 2017 Performance Based Incentive Plan liabilities were approximately $496 thousand , $265 thousand , and $70 thousand , respectively. See Note 14 to the Company's consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 in this Form 10-K for further discussion of Performance Based Incentive Plan.
(2) The fair value of the interest rate swap is recorded in Other liabilities on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheet.


66



 
 
 
Fair Value
Measurement Using
 
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2016
 
Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Valuation Method
Recurring Fair Value - Liabilities
 
 
(In thousands)
 
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TSR Performance Based Incentive Plan (1)
$
793

 
$

 
$
793

 
$

 
Monte Carlo Approach
(1) The fair value of the Company's 2015 and 2016 Performance Based Incentive Plan liabilities were approximately $412 thousand and $381 thousand , respectively. See Note 14 to the Company's consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 in this Form 10-K for further discussion of Performance Based Incentive Plan.


 
 
 
Fair Value
Measurement Using
 
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended August 26, 2015
 
Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Valuation Method
Recurring Fair Value - Liabilities
 
 
(In thousands)
 
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TSR Performance Based Incentive Plan (1)
$
108

 

 
$
108

 

 
Monte Carlo Approach
(1) The fair value of the Company's 2015 Performance Based Incentive Plan liabilities was approximately $108 thousand .

 

67



Non-recurring fair value measurements related to impaired property and equipment consist of the following:
  
 
 
 
Fair Value
Measurement Using
 
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended August 30, 2017
 
Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Total
Impairments (4)
Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements
 
 
(In thousands)
 
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property and equipment related to Company-owned restaurants (1)
$
5,519

 
$

 
$

 
$
5,519

 
$
(8,571
)
Goodwill (2)

 

 

 

 
(537
)
Property held for sale (3)
3,372

 

 

 
3,372

 
(977
)
Total Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements
$
8,891

 
$

 
$

 
$
8,891

 
$
(10,085
)
(1) In accordance with Subtopic 360-10, long-lived assets held and used with a carrying amount of approximately $14.1 million were written down to their fair value of approximately $5.5 million , resulting in an impairment charge of approximately $8.6 million .
(2) In accordance with Subtopic 350-20, goodwill with a carrying amount of approximately $537 thousand was written down to its implied fair value of approximately zero , resulting in an impairment charge of $537 thousand . See Note 7 and Note 11 to the Company's consolidated financial statements in this Form 10-K for further discussion of goodwill.
(3) In accordance with Subtopic 360-10, long-lived assets held for sale with a carrying value of approximately $5.5 million were written down to their fair value of approximately $3.4 million , less costs to sell, resulting in an impairment charge of approximately $1.0 million . Proceeds on the sale of one property previously recorded in Property held for sale amounted to approximately $1.2 million .
(4) Total impairments are included in Provision for asset impairments and restaurant closings in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Operations for the fiscal year ended 2017 .



 
 
 
Fair Value
Measurement Using
 
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2016
 
Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Total
Impairments
(4)
Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements
(In thousands)
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property and equipment related to Company-owned restaurants (1)
$
959

 
$

 
$

 
$
959

 
$
(738
)
Goodwill (2)

 

 

 

 
(38
)
Property held for sale (3)
1,290

 

 

 
1,290

 
(463
)
Total Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements
$
2,249

 
$

 
$

 
$
2,249

 
$
(1,239
)
(1) In accordance with Subtopic 360-10, long-lived assets held and used with a carrying amount of approximately $1.7 million were written down to their fair value of approximately $1.0 million , resulting in an impairment charge of approximately $0.7 million .
(2) In accordance with Subtopic 350-20, goodwill with a carrying amount of approximately $38 thousand was written down to its implied fair value of approximately zero , resulting in an impairment charge of $38 thousand . See Note 7 and Note 11 to the Company's consolidated financial statements in this Form 10-K for further discussion of goodwill.
(3) In accordance with Subtopic 360-10, long-lived assets held for sale with a carrying value of $1.8 million were written down to their fair value of approximately $1.3 million , less costs to sell, resulting in an impairment charge of approximately $0.5 million .
(4) Total impairments are included in Provision for asset impairments and restaurant closings in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Operations for the fiscal year ended 2016 .

68



 
 
 
 
Fair Value
Measurement Using
 
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended August 26, 2015
 
Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Total
Impairments
(3)
Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements
 
 
(In thousands)
 
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property and equipment related to Company-owned restaurants (1)
$
1,350

 
$

 
$

 
$
1,350

 
$
(598
)
Goodwill (2)

 

 

 

 
(38
)
Total Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements
$
1,350

 
$

 
$

 
$
1,350

 
$
(636
)
Discontinued Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property and equipment related to corporate assets
$
865

 
$

 
$

 
$
865

 
$
(90
)
(1) In accordance with Subtopic 360-10, long-lived assets held and used with a carrying amount of approximately $1.9 million were written down to their fair value of approximately $1.3 million , resulting in an impairment charge of approximately $0.6 million , which was included in earnings for the period.
(2) In accordance with Subtopic 350-20, goodwill with a carrying amount of approximately $38 thousand was written down to its implied fair value of approximately zero , resulting in an impairment charge of $38 thousand . See Note 7 and Note 11 to the Company's consolidated financial statements in this Form 10-K for further discussion of goodwill.
(3) Total impairments are included in Provision for asset impairments and restaurant closings in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Operations for the fiscal year ended 2015 .

Note 5. Trade Receivables and Other
 
Trade and other receivables, net, consist of the following:
 
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
(In thousands)
Trade and other receivables
$
5,966

 
$
5,161

Franchise royalties and marketing and advertising receivables
687

 
839

Trade receivables, unbilled
1,633

 

Allowance for doubtful accounts
(275
)
 
(81
)
Total Trade accounts and other receivables, net
$
8,011

 
$
5,919


CCS receivable balance at August 30, 2017 was $5.0 million , primarily the result of 14 contracts with balances of approximately $0.1 million to approximately $2.3 million per contract entity. These 14 collectively represented approximately 58% of the Company’s total accounts receivables. Contract payment terms for its CCS customers’ receivables are due within 30 to 45 days. The Company's fiscal 2017 ended one day prior to calendar month end and fiscal 2016 ended at a calendar month end. Trade receivables, unbilled, was approximately $1.6 million at August 30, 2017 and $0.0 million at August 31, 2016 . CCS contracts are billed on a calendar month end basis and represent the total balance of Trade receivables, unbilled.
 
The Company recorded receivables related to Fuddruckers franchise operations royalty and marketing and advertising payments from the franchisees, as required by their franchise agreements. Franchise royalty and marketing and advertising fund receivables balance at August 30, 2017 was approximately $0.7 million . At August 30, 2017 , the Company had 113 operating franchise restaurants with no concentration of accounts receivable.
 
The change in allowances for doubtful accounts for each of the years in the three-year periods ended as of the dates below is as follows: 

69



 
Fiscal   Year Ended
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
August 26,
2015
 
(In thousands)
Beginning balance
$
81

 
$
555

 
$
512

Provisions (reversal) for doubtful accounts
200

 
(18
)
 
51

Write-offs (1)
(6
)
 
(456
)
 
(8
)
Ending balance
$
275

 
$
81

 
$
555

(1) The approximate $0.5 million Balance Sheet write-off in fiscal 2016 resulted from uncollectable receivables at three Culinary Contract Services accounts previously reserved for approximately $0.1 million , $0.3 million , and $33.0 thousand in fiscal 2011, 2012, and 2013, respectively.

Note 6. Income Taxes
 
The following table details the categories of total income tax assets and liabilities for both continuing and discontinued operations resulting from the cumulative tax effects of temporary differences:
 
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
(In thousands)
Deferred income tax assets:
 
 
 
Workers’ compensation, employee injury, and general liability claims
$
486

 
$
466

Deferred compensation
437

 
552

Net operating losses
2,140

 
1,258

General business and foreign tax credits
11,599

 
11,010

Depreciation, amortization and impairments
7,515

 
1,879

Straight-line rent, dining cards, accruals, and other
4,392

 
3,812

Subtotal
26,569

 
18,977

Valuation allowance
(16,871
)
 
(6,905
)
Total deferred income tax assets
9,698

 
12,072

Deferred income tax liabilities:
 
 
 
Property taxes and other
1,916

 
1,828

Total deferred income tax liabilities
1,916

 
1,828

Net deferred income tax asset
$
7,782

 
$
10,244

 
The Company had deferred tax assets, excluding liabilities, at August 30, 2017 of approximately $9.7 million , the most significant of which include the Company’s general business tax credits carryovers to future years of approximately $11.1 million . This item may be carried forward up to twenty ( 20 ) years for possible utilization in the future. The carryover of general business tax credits, beginning in fiscal 2002, will begin to expire at the end of fiscal 2022 through 2037 , if not utilized by then.
 
Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements, which will result in taxable or deductible amounts in the future, as well as from tax net operating losses and tax credit carryovers. We establish a valuation allowance when we no longer consider it more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will be realized. In evaluating our ability to recover our deferred tax assets, we consider available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of taxable temporary differences, identified tax-planning strategy, the results of recent operations, and where appropriate, projected future taxable income. We have negative evidence in the form of cumulative losses in recent years, a significant source of which was due to a number of underperforming restaurant locations, principally all of which have, as of this time, been disposed of under the Company's disposal plan. The presence of a cumulative loss in recent years, generally limits our ability to consider projections of future earnings in assessing realization of our deferred tax assets.

70



Notwithstanding, we have objective positive evidence in the form of (i) identified tax planning strategy and (ii) an excess of appreciated asset value over the tax basis of properties within the Company's portfolio of real estate in an amount sufficient to realize certain of our deferred tax assets. Tax planning strategy includes the acceleration of unrealized gains from our owned property locations through sale or exchange, if and when necessary on a selective basis, to realize deferred tax assets including federal tax credit carryovers. We regularly evaluate our portfolio of owned properties, long-lived assets and their relative values, for many different business purposes, and have estimated the resulting unrealized net gains thereon to be of sufficient amount to realize certain of our deferred tax assets.
Collectively, the available evidence supports an assertion that our deferred tax assets will be realized, but with the exception of a certain portion of the Company's general business and foreign tax credit carryovers that are not likely at this time to be realized, and on which the Company has established a valuation allowance. The general business credits and foreign tax credit carryovers generally expire if unused within twenty ( 20 ) years and ten ( 10 ) years, respectively. We have, as a result of the foregoing assessment, increased the valuation allowance by an additional $10.0 million during fiscal 2017 to a $16.9 million valuation allowance for deferred tax assets that are not likely to be realized prior to their expiration. The resulting valuation allowance increase is principally attributable to changes for this fiscal year in appreciated asset values of real estate properties considered in the Company's identified tax planning strategy.

An analysis of the provision for income taxes for continuing operations is as follows:
 
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
August 26,
2015
 
(In thousands)
Current federal and state income tax expense
$
329

 
$
128

 
$
523

Current foreign income tax expense
84

 
82

 
63

Deferred income tax expense (benefit)
2,025

 
4,665

 
(1,662
)
Total income tax expense (benefit)
$
2,438

 
$
4,875

 
$
(1,076
)
 
Relative only to continuing operations, the reconciliation of the expense (benefit) for income taxes to the expected income tax expense (benefit), computed using the statutory tax rate, was as follows:
 
 
Fiscal   Year Ended
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
August 26,
2015
 
Amount
 
%
 
Amount
 
%
 
Amount
 
%
 
(In thousands and as a percent of pretax loss from continuing operations)
Income tax benefit from continuing operations at the federal rate
$
(6,922
)
 
34.0
 %
 
$
(1,830
)
 
34.0
 %
 
$
(832
)
 
34.0
 %
Permanent and other differences:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Federal jobs tax credits (wage deductions)
200

 
(1.0
)
 
226

 
(4.2
)
 
302

 
(12.3
)
Stock options and restricted stock
129

 
(0.6
)
 
165

 
(3.1
)
 
74

 
(3.0
)
Other permanent differences
62

 
(0.3
)
 
74

 
(1.4
)
 
60

 
(2.5
)
State income tax, net of federal benefit
(45
)
 
0.2

 
94

 
(1.7
)
 
200

 
(8.2
)
General Business Tax Credits
(589
)
 
2.9

 
(665
)
 
12.4

 
(888
)
 
36.3

Other
84

 
(0.4
)
 
(94
)
 
1.7

 
8

 
(0.3
)
Change in valuation allowance
9,519

 
(46.8
)
 
6,905

 
(128.3
)
 

 

Income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations
$
2,438

 
(12.0
)%
 
$
4,875

 
(90.6
)%
 
$
(1,076
)
 
44.0
 %
 
For the fiscal year ended August 30, 2017 , including both continuing and discontinued operations, the Company is estimated to report a federal taxable loss of approximately $3.0 million .
 
For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2016 , including both continuing and discontinued operations, the Company generated federal taxable income of approximately $3.1 million .

71



 
For the fiscal year ended August 26, 2015 , including both continuing and discontinued operations, the Company generated federal taxable income of approximately $0.4 million .

Our income tax filings are periodically examined by various federal and state jurisdictions. The State of Louisiana is currently examining tax returns for fiscal 2014 and 2015.
 
There were no payments of federal income taxes in fiscal 2015 , 2016 or 2017 . The Company has income tax filing requirements in over 30 states. State income tax payments were approximately $0.4 million , $0.4 million , and $0.7 million in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively.
 
The following table is a reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits at the beginning and end of fiscal 2015 , 2016 and 2017 (in thousands):
 
Balance as of August 27, 2014
$
62

Decrease based on prior year tax positions

Interest Expense
1

Balance as of August 26, 2015
$
63

Decrease based on prior year tax positions
(18
)
Interest Expense

Balance as of August 31, 2016
$
45

Decrease based on prior year tax positions
(20
)
Interest Expense

Balance as of August 30, 2017
$
25

 
The unrecognized tax benefits would favorably affect the Company’s effective tax rate in future periods if they are recognized. There is no interest associated with unrecognized benefits as of August 30, 2017 . The Company has included interest or penalties related to income tax matters as part of income tax expense (or benefit).
 
It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits with respect to our uncertain tax positions could significantly increase or decrease within 12 months. However, based on the current status of examinations, it is not possible to estimate the future impact, if any, to recorded uncertain tax positions as of August 30, 2017 .
 
Management believes that adequate provisions for income taxes have been reflected in the financial statements and is not aware of any significant exposure items that have not been reflected in the financial statements. Amounts considered probable of settlement within one year have been included in the accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.


72



Note 7. Property and Equipment, Intangible Assets and Goodwill
 
The cost, net of impairment, and accumulated depreciation of property and equipment at August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016 , together with the related estimated useful lives used in computing depreciation and amortization, were as follows:
 
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
Estimated
Useful Lives (years)
 
(In thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Land
$
60,414

 
$
61,940

 
 
 
 
 
Restaurant equipment and furnishings
73,411

 
75,764

 
3
 
to
 
15
Buildings
153,041

 
157,006

 
20
 
to
 
33
Leasehold and leasehold improvements
26,953

 
25,973

 
 
 
Lesser of lease term or
estimated useful life
 
 
Office furniture and equipment
3,684

 
3,277

 
3
 
to
 
10
Construction in progress
35

 
145

 
 
 
 
 
 
317,538

 
324,105

 
 
 
 
 
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(144,724
)
 
(130,887
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property and equipment, net
$
172,814

 
$
193,218

 
 
 
 
 
 
Intangible assets, net
$
19,640

 
$
21,074

 
15
 
to
 
21
Goodwill
$
1,068

 
$
1,605

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Intangible assets, net, consist of the Fuddruckers trade name and franchise agreements and will be amortized. The Company believes the Fuddruckers brand name has an expected accounting life of 21 years from the date of acquisition based on the expected use of its assets and the restaurant environment in which it is being used. The trade name represents a respected brand with customer loyalty and the Company intends to cultivate and protect the use of the trade name. The franchise agreements, after considering renewal periods, have an estimated accounting life of 21 years from the date of acquisition and will be amortized over this period of time.
 
Intangible assets, net, also includes the license agreement and trade name related to Cheeseburger in Paradise and the value of the acquired licenses and permits allowing the sales of beverages with alcohol. These assets have an expected accounting life of 15 years from the date of acquisition December 6, 2012.
 
The aggregate amortization expense related to intangible assets subject to amortization for fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was approximately $1.4 million , $1.4 million , and $1.4 million , respectively. The aggregate amortization expense related to intangible assets subject to amortization is expected to be approximately $1.4 million in each of the next five successive years.
 
The following table presents intangible assets as of August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016 :
 
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
(In thousands)
 
(In thousands)
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net
Carrying
Amount
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net
Carrying
Amount
Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fuddruckers trade name and franchise agreements
$
29,486

 
$
(9,943
)
 
$
19,543

 
$
29,486

 
$
(8,535
)
 
$
20,951

Cheeseburger in Paradise trade name and license agreements
$
421

 
$
(324
)
 
$
97

 
$
421

 
$
(298
)
 
$
123

Intangible assets, net
$
29,907

 
$
(10,267
)
 
$
19,640

 
$
29,907

 
$
(8,833
)
 
$
21,074



73



In fiscal 2010, the Company recorded an intangible asset for goodwill in the amount of approximately $0.2 million related to the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Fuddruckers. The Company also recorded, in fiscal 2013, an intangible asset for goodwill in the amount of approximately $2.0 million related to the acquisition of Cheeseburger in Paradise. Goodwill is considered to have an indefinite useful life and is not amortized.
 
The Company performs a goodwill impairment test annually and more frequently when negative conditions or a triggering event arise. After an assessment of certain qualitative factors, if it is determined to be more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, entities must perform the quantitative analysis of the goodwill impairment test. Otherwise, the quantitative test(s) become optional. For the annual analysis in fiscal 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , the Company elected to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceeded directly to performing the first step of the goodwill impairment test. In future periods, the Company may determine that facts and circumstances indicate use of the qualitative assessment may be the most reasonable approach. Management performed its formal annual assessment as of the second quarter of each fiscal year. The individual restaurant level is the level at which goodwill is assessed for impairment under ASC 350. In accordance with our understanding of ASC 350, we have allocated the goodwill value to each reporting unit in proportion to each location’s fair value at the date of acquisition. The result of these assessments were impairment of goodwill of approximately $537 thousand , $38 thousand , and $38 thousand in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. The Company will formally perform additional assessments on an interim basis if an event occurs or circumstances exist that indicate that it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists. As of November 7, 2017 , of the 23 Cheeseburger in Paradise locations that were acquired, seven locations remain operating as Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants and of the restaurants closed for conversion to Fuddruckers five locations remain operating as a Fuddruckers restaurant. Three locations were removed due to their lease term expiring, three locations were subleased to franchisees, and the remaining five locations were closed and held for future use. As we are not moving any of the former Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants out of their respective market, the goodwill associated with the acquired location and market area is expected to be realized through operating these former Cheeseburger in Paradise branded restaurants as Fuddruckers branded restaurants. The Company has experience converting and opening new restaurant locations and the Fuddruckers brand units have positive cash flow history. This historical data was considered when completing our fair value estimates for recovery of the remaining net book value including goodwill. In addition, we included the incremental conversion costs in our cash flow projections when completing our routine impairment of long-lived assets testing. Management has therefore performed valuations using a discounted cash flow analysis for each of its restaurants to determine the fair value of each reporting unit for comparison with the reporting unit’s carrying value.
 
Goodwill, net of accumulated impairments of approximately $1.1 million and $0.6 million in fiscal 2017 and 2016 , respectively, was approximately $1.1 million as of August 30, 2017 and $1.6 million as of August 31, 2016 and relates to our Company-owned restaurants reportable segment.
 
Note 8. Current Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities
 
The following table sets forth current accrued expenses and other liabilities as of August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016 :
 
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
(In thousands)
Salaries, compensated absences, incentives, and bonuses (1)
$
5,339

 
$
4,184

Operating expenses
1,041

 
1,118

Unredeemed gift cards and certificates
7,298

 
6,269

Taxes, other than income
9,423

 
7,882

Accrued claims and insurance
1,505

 
1,577

Income taxes, legal and other
3,470

 
2,722

Total
$
28,076

 
$
23,752

(1) Salaries, compensated absences, incentives, and bonuses include the award value of the 2015 Performance Based Incentive Plan liability in the amount of $496 thousand at August 30, 2017 .


74



Note 9. Other Long-Term Liabilities
 
The following table sets forth other long-term liabilities as of August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016 :
 
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
(In thousands)
Workers’ compensation and general liability insurance reserve
$
923

 
$
986

Capital leases
109

 
44

Deferred rent and unfavorable leases
5,297

 
5,565

Deferred compensation (1)
426

 
895

Fair value derivative - Interest Rate Swap
266

 

Other
290

 
262

Total
$
7,311

 
$
7,752

(1) Deferred compensation includes 2016 and 2017 Performance Based Incentive Plan liabilities in the amount of approximately $266 thousand and approximately $70 thousand , respectively, at August 30, 2017 and 2015 and 2016 Performance Based Incentive Plan liabilities in the amount of approximately $412 thousand and $380 thousand , respectively, at August 31, 2016 .
 
Note 10. Debt

The following table summarizes credit facility debt, less current portion at August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016 .

 
 
 
 
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
(In thousands)
2013 Credit Agreement - Revolver
$

 
$
37,000

2016 Credit Agreement - Revolver
4,400

 

2016 Credit Agreement - Term Loan
26,585

 

Total credit facility debt
30,985

 
37,000

Less unamortized debt issue costs
(287
)
 

Total credit facility debt, less unamortized debt issuance costs
30,698

 
37,000

Current portion of credit facility debt

 

Total
30,698

 
37,000


On November 8, 2016, we refinanced the Company's 2013 Credit Facility with a new $65.0 million Senior Secured Credit Agreement. The debt issue costs the Company incurred on the new 2016 Credit Agreement financing amounted to approximately $0.6 million of which approximately $0.3 million was applicable to the Term Loan and was setup on a pro-rata basis as a liability, which is included in credit facility debt, less current portion.

Senior Secured Credit Agreement
On November 8, 2016, the Company entered into a $65.0 million Senior Secured Credit Facility with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent and Cadence Bank, NA and Texas Capital Bank, NA, as lenders (“2016 Credit Agreement”). The 2016 Credit Agreement, as amended, is comprised of a $30.0 million 5 -year Revolver (the “Revolver”) and a $35.0 million 5 -year Term Loan (the “Term Loan”). The maturity date of the 2016 Credit Agreement is November 8, 2021 . For this section of the form 10-K, capitalized terms that are used but not otherwise defined shall have the meanings give to such terms in the 2016 Credit Agreement.
The Term Loan and/or Revolver commitments may be increased by up to an additional $10.0 million in the aggregate.
The 2016 Credit Agreement also provides for the issuance of letters of credit in an aggregate amount equal to the lesser of $5.0 million and the Revolving Credit Commitment, which was $30.0 million as of November 8, 2016 . The 2016 Credit Agreement is guaranteed by all of the Company’s present subsidiaries and will be guaranteed by the Company's future subsidiaries.

75



At any time throughout the term of the 2016 Credit Agreement, the Company has the option to elect one of two bases of interest rates. One interest rate option is the highest of (a) the Prime Rate, (b) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50% and (c) 30-day LIBOR plus 1.00% , plus, in each case, the Applicable Margin, which ranges from 1.50% to 2.50%  per annum. The other interest rate option is LIBOR plus the Applicable Margin, which ranges from 2.50% to 3.50%  per annum. The Applicable margin under each option is dependent upon the Company's Consolidated Total Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio ("CTLAL") at the most recent quarterly determination date.
The Term Loan amortizes 7.00% per year ( 35% in 5 years) which includes the quarterly payment of principal. On December 14, 2016, The Company entered into an interest rate swap with a notional amount of $17.5 million , representing 50% of the initial outstanding Term Loan.
The Company is obligated to pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of each lender a quarterly commitment fee based on the average daily unused amount of the commitment of such lender, ranging from 0.30% to 0.35%  per annum depending on the CTLAL at the most recent quarterly determination date.
The proceeds of the 2016 Credit Agreement are available for the Company to (i) pay in full all indebtedness outstanding under the 2013 Credit Agreement as of November 8, 2016, (ii) pay fees, commissions, and expenses in connection with the Company's repayment of the 2013 Credit Agreement, initial extensions of credit under the 2016 Credit Agreement, and (iii) for working capital and general corporate purposes of the Company.
The 2016 Credit Agreement, as amended, contains the following covenants among others:
CTLAL of not more than (i) 5.00 to 1.00 at all times through and including the third fiscal quarter of the Borrower’s fiscal 2018, and (ii) 4.75 to 1.00 at all times thereafter,
Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of not less than 1.25 to 1.00, at the end of each fiscal quarter,
Limit on Growth Capital Expenditures so long as the CTLAL is at least 0.25 x less than the then-applicable permitted maximum CTLAL,
restrictions on mergers, acquisitions, consolidations and asset sales,
restrictions on the payment of dividends, redemption of stock and other distributions,
restrictions on incurring indebtedness, including certain guarantees and capital lease obligations,
restrictions on incurring liens on certain of our property and the property of our subsidiaries,
restrictions on transactions with affiliates and materially changing our business,
restrictions on making certain investments, loans, advances and guarantees,
restrictions on selling assets outside the ordinary course of business,
prohibitions on entering into sale and leaseback transactions, and
restrictions on certain acquisitions of all or a substantial portion of the assets, property and/or equity interests of any person, including share repurchases and dividends.

The 2016 Credit Agreement is secured by substantially all of the Company’s personal property, including without limitation the equity interest in each subsidiary of the Company. The 2016 Credit Agreement also includes customary events of default. If a default occurs and is continuing, the lenders’ commitments under the 2016 Credit Agreement may be immediately terminated and/or the Company may be required to repay all amounts outstanding under the 2016 Credit Agreement.
As of August 30, 2017 , the Company had $31.0 million in total outstanding loans and approximately $1.3 million committed under letters of credit, which is used as security for the payment of insurance obligations, and approximately $0.1 million in other indebtedness.
The Company was in compliance with the covenants contained in the 2016 Credit Agreement as of August 30, 2017 . At any determination date, if certain leverage and fixed charge coverage ratios exceed the maximum permitted under the Company's 2016 Credit Agreement, the Company would be considered in default under the terms of the agreement. Due to negative results in fiscal 2017 , continued under performance could cause the Company's financial ratios to exceed the permitted limits under the terms of the 2016 Credit Agreement.

76



2013 Credit Agreement
 In August 2013, the Company entered into a $70.0 million revolving credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, and ZB, N.A. dba Amegy Bank (formerly Amegy Bank, N.A.), as Syndication Agent. Pursuant to the October 2, 2015 amendment, the total aggregate amount of the lenders' commitments was lowered to $60 million from $70.0 million . The following description summarizes the material terms of the revolving credit facility, as subsequently amended on March 21, 2014, November 7, 2014 and October 2, 2015, (the revolving credit facility is referred to as the “2013 Credit Facility”). The 2013 Credit Facility was governed by the credit agreement dated as of August 14, 2013 (the “2013 Credit Agreement”) among the Company, the lenders from time to time party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, and ZB, N.A. dba Amegy Bank (formerly Amegy Bank, N.A.), as Syndication Agent. The maturity date of the 2013 Credit Facility was September 1, 2017.
 
The 2013 Credit Facility also provided for the issuance of letters of credit in a maximum aggregate amount of $5.0 million outstanding as of August 14, 2013 and $15.0 million outstanding at any one time with prior written consent of the Administrative Agent and the Issuing Bank.
 
At any time throughout the term of the 2013 Credit Facility, the Company had the option to elect one of two bases of interest rates. One interest rate option was the greater of (a) the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 0.50% , or (b) prime, plus, in either case, an applicable spread that ranges from 0.75% to 2.25%  per annum. The other interest rate option was the London InterBank Offered Rate plus a spread that ranges from 2.50% to 4.0%  per annum. The applicable spread under each option was dependent upon the ratio of the Company's debt to EBITDA at the most recent determination date.
 
The Company was obligated to pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of each lender a quarterly commitment fee based on the average daily unused amount of the commitment of such lender, ranging from 0.30% to 0.40%  per annum depending on the Total Leverage Ratio at the most recent determination date.
  
The proceeds of the 2013 Credit Facility was available for the Company’s general corporate purposes and general working capital purposes and capital expenditures.
 
The 2013 Credit Agreement, as amended, contained the following covenants among others:

Debt Service Coverage Ratio of not less than (i) 1.10 to 1.00 at all times during the first, second and third fiscal quarters of the Borrower’s fiscal 2015 , (ii) 1.25 to 1.00 at all times during the fourth fiscal quarter of the Borrower’s fiscal 2015 , and (iii) 1.50 to 1.00 at all times thereafter,
Lease Adjusted Leverage Ratio of not more than (i) 5.75 to 1.00 at all times during the first, second and third fiscal quarters of the Borrower’s fiscal 2015 , (ii) 5.50 to 1.00 at all times during the fourth fiscal quarter of the Borrower’s fiscal 2015 , (iii) 5.25 to 1.00 at all times during the first fiscal quarter of the Borrower’s fiscal 2016 , (iv) 5.00 to 1.00 at all times during the second fiscal quarter of the Borrower’s fiscal 2016 , and (v) 4.75 to 1.00 at all times thereafter,
capital expenditures limited to $25.0 million per year,
restrictions on incurring indebtedness, including certain guarantees and capital lease obligations,
restrictions on incurring liens on certain of our property and the property of our subsidiaries,
restrictions on transactions with affiliates and materially changing our business,
restrictions on making certain investments, loans, advances and guarantees,
restrictions on selling assets outside the ordinary course of business,
prohibitions on entering into sale and leaseback transactions, and
restrictions on certain acquisitions of all or a substantial portion of the assets, property and/or equity interests of any person, including share repurchases and dividends.
 
The 2013 Credit Agreement also included customary events of default. If a default occured and continued, the lenders’ commitments under the 2013 Credit Facility may have be immediately terminated and, or the Company could have been required to repay all amounts outstanding under the 2013 Credit Facility.
 
The 2013 Credit Facility was secured by a perfected first priority lien on certain of the Company's real property and all of the material personal property owned by the Company or any of its subsidiaries, other than certain excluded assets (as defined in the Credit Agreement).
 

77



Interest Expense
 
Total interest expense incurred for fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was approximately $2.2 million , $2.2 million , and $2.3 million , respectively. Interest paid was approximately $1.8 million , $1.9 million , and $2.1 million in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. No interest expense was allocated to discontinued operations in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , or 2015 . Interest was capitalized on properties in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , in the amounts of zero , zero , and $80 thousand , respectively.
 
Note 11. Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, Store Closings, Discontinued Operations and Property Held for Sale
 
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Store Closings
 
The Company periodically evaluates long-lived assets held for use and held for sale whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of those assets may not be recoverable. The Company analyzes historical cash flows of operating locations and compares results of poorer performing locations to more profitable locations. The Company also analyzes lease terms, condition of the assets and related need for capital expenditures or repairs, as well as construction activity and the economic and market conditions in the surrounding area.
 
For assets held for use, the Company estimates future cash flows using assumptions based on possible outcomes of the areas analyzed. If the undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value of the location’s assets, the Company records an impairment loss based on an estimate of discounted cash flows. The estimates of future cash flows, based on reasonable and supportable assumptions and projections, require management’s subjective judgments. Assumptions and estimates used include operating results, changes in working capital, discount rate, growth rate, anticipated net proceeds from disposition of the property and if applicable, lease terms. The span of time for which future cash flows are estimated is often lengthy, increasing the sensitivity to assumptions made. The time span is longer and could be 20 to 25 years for newer properties, but only 5 to 10 years for older properties. Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, the estimated future cash flows projected in the evaluation of long-lived assets can vary within a wide range of outcomes. The Company considers the likelihood of possible outcomes in determining the best estimate of future cash flows. The measurement for such an impairment loss is then based on the fair value of the asset as determined by discounted cash flows.

The Company recognized the following impairment charges (credits) to income from operations:
 
 
Fiscal   Year Ended
 
August 30, 2017
 
August 31, 2016
 
August 26, 2015
 
(In thousands, except per share data)
Provision for asset impairments and restaurant closings
$
10,567

 
$
1,442

 
$
636

Net gain on disposition of property and equipment
(1,804
)
 
(684
)
 
(3,994
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total
$
8,763

 
$
758

 
$
(3,358
)
Effect on EPS:
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.29
)
 
$
(0.03
)
 
$
0.12

Assuming dilution
$
(0.29
)
 
$
(0.03
)
 
$
0.12

 
The approximate $10.6 million impairment charge in fiscal 2017 is primarily related to assets impaired at 17 property locations, goodwill at six property locations, five properties held for sale written down to their fair value, and a reserve for 10 restaurant closings of approximately $482 thousand .

The approximate $1.8 million net gain on disposition of property and equipment in fiscal 2017 is primarily related to the gain on the sale of six properties of approximately $2.4 million partially offset by routine asset retirements. 

The approximate $1.4 million impairment charge in fiscal 2016 is primarily related to assets impaired at 4 property locations, goodwill at one property location, and a reserve for four restaurant closings of approximately $202 thousand .

The approximate $0.7 million net gain on disposition of property and equipment in fiscal 2016 is primarily related to the gain on the sale of two properties of approximately 1.0 million partially offset by routine asset retirements. 
 
The approximate $0.6 million impairment charge in fiscal 2015 is primarily related to three property locations.

78




The approximate $4.0 million net gain on disposition of property and equipment in fiscal 2015 is primarily related to the gain on the sale of five properties of approximately $4.5 million partially offset by routine asset retirements.
  
Discontinued Operations
 
On March 21, 2014, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a plan focused on improving cash flow from the acquired Cheeseburger in Paradise leasehold locations. This underperforming Cheeseburger in Paradise leasehold disposal plan called for five or more units to be closed or converted to Fuddruckers restaurants. As of August 30, 2017 , no locations remain classified as discontinued operations in this plan.
 
As a result of the first quarter fiscal 2010 adoption of the Company’s Cash Flow Improvement and Capital Redeployment Plan, the Company reclassified 24 Luby’s Cafeterias to discontinued operations. As of August 30, 2017 , one location remains held for sale.
 
The following table sets forth the assets and liabilities for all discontinued operations:
 
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
(In thousands)
Prepaid expenses
$

 
$
1

Assets related to discontinued operations—current
$

 
$
1

Property and equipment
$
1,872

 
$
1,872

Deferred tax assets
883

 
1,320

Assets related to discontinued operations—non-current
$
2,755

 
$
3,192

Deferred income taxes
$
354

 
$
361

Accrued expenses and other liabilities
13

 
51

Liabilities related to discontinued operations—current
$
367

 
$
412

Other liabilities
$
16

 
$
17

Liabilities related to discontinued operations—non-current
$
16

 
$
17

  
As of August 30, 2017 , under both closure plans, the Company had one property classified as discontinued operations. The asset carrying value of the owned property was approximately $1.9 million and is included in assets related to discontinued operations. The Company is actively marketing this property for sale and has one property with a ground lease previously impaired to zero .
 
The following table sets forth the sales and pretax losses reported for all discontinued locations:
 
 
Fiscal   Year Ended
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
August 26,
2015
 
(In thousands, except locations)
Sales
$

 
$

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
Pretax loss
$
(28
)
 
$
(136
)
 
$
(864
)
Income tax benefit on discontinued operations
$
(438
)
 
$
46

 
$
406

Loss on discontinued operations
$
(466
)
 
$
(90
)
 
$
(458
)
Discontinued locations closed during the period
0

 
0

 
0

 

79



The following table summarizes discontinued operations for fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 :
 
 
Fiscal   Year Ended
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
August 26,
2015
 
(In thousands, except per share data)
Discontinued operating losses
$
(28
)
 
$
(161
)
 
$
(890
)
Impairments

 

 
(90
)
Gains

 
25

 
116

Net loss
$
(28
)
 
$
(136
)
 
$
(864
)
Income tax benefit (expense) from discontinued operations
(438
)
 
46

 
406

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
$
(466
)
 
$
(90
)
 
$
(458
)
Effect on EPS from discontinued operations—decrease—basic
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.00
)
 
$
(0.01
)
 
Within discontinued operations, the Company offsets gains from applicable property disposals against total impairments. The amounts in the table described as “Other” include employment termination and shut-down costs, as well as operating losses through each restaurant’s closing date and carrying costs until the locations are finally disposed.

The impairment charges included above relate to properties closed and designated for immediate disposal. The assets of these individual operating units have been written down to their net realizable values. In turn, the related properties have either been sold or are being actively marketed for sale. All dispositions are expected to be completed within one to two years. Within discontinued operations, the Company also recorded the related fiscal year-to-date net operating results, employee terminations and basic carrying costs of the closed units.
 
Property Held for Sale
 
The Company periodically reviews long-lived assets against its plans to retain or ultimately dispose of properties. If the Company decides to dispose of a property, it will be reclassified to property held for sale and actively marketed. The Company analyzes market conditions each reporting period and records additional impairments due to declines in market values of like assets. The fair value of the property is determined by observable inputs such as appraisals and prices of comparable properties in active markets for assets like the Company’s. Gains are not recognized until the properties are sold.
  
Property held for sale includes unimproved land, closed restaurant properties and related equipment for locations not classified as discontinued operations. The specific assets are valued at the lower of net depreciable value or net realizable value. The Company actively markets all locations classified as property held for sale.
 
At August 30, 2017 , the Company had four owned properties recorded at approximately $3.4 million in property held for sale.
 
At August 31, 2016 , the Company had five owned properties recorded at approximately $5.5 million in property held for sale.
 
The Company’s results of continuing operations will be affected to the extent proceeds from sales exceed or are less than net book value.
 

80



A roll forward of property held for sale for fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 is provided below (in thousands) :
 
Balance as of August 27, 2014
$
991

Disposals
(3,203
)
Net transfers to property held for sale
6,748

Balance as of August 26, 2015
$
4,536

Disposals
(1,488
)
Net transfers to property held for sale
2,937

Adjustment to fair value
(463
)
Balance as of August 31, 2016
$
5,522

Disposals
(1,173
)
Adjustment to fair value
(977
)
Balance as of August 30, 2017
$
3,372


Abandoned Leased Facilities - Reserve for Store Closing

As of August 30, 2017 , the Company classified seven leased locations in Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, New York, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin as abandoned. Although the Company remains obligated under the terms of the leases for the rent and other costs that may be associated with the leases, the Company decided to cease operations and has no foreseeable plans to occupy the spaces as a company restaurant in the future. Therefore, the Company recorded a charge to earnings, in provision for asset impairments and restaurant closings for fiscal years 2017 and 2016 of approximately $482 thousand and $203 thousand , respectively. The liability is equal to the total amount of rent and other direct costs for the remaining period of time the properties will be unoccupied plus the present value of the amount by which the rent paid by the Company to the landlord exceeds any rent paid to the Company by a tenant under a sublease over the remaining period of the lease terms. Accrued lease termination expense was approximately $540 thousand and $151 thousand as of August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016 , respectively.

Note 12. Commitments and Contingencies
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
The Company has no off-balance sheet arrangements, except for operating leases for the Company’s corporate office, facility service warehouse, and certain restaurant properties.
 
Claims
 
From time to time, the Company is subject to various other private lawsuits, administrative proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of its business. A number of these lawsuits, proceedings and claims may exist at any given time. These matters typically involve claims from guests, employees and others related to issues common to the restaurant industry. The Company currently believes that the final disposition of these types of lawsuits, proceedings, and claims will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or liquidity. It is possible, however, that the Company’s future results of operations for a particular quarter or fiscal year could be impacted by changes in circumstances relating to lawsuits, proceedings, or claims.

Construction Activity
 
From time to time, the Company enters into non-cancelable contracts for the construction of its new restaurants or restaurant remodels. This construction activity exposes the Company to the risks inherent in this industry including but not limited to rising material prices, labor shortages, delays in getting required permits and inspections, adverse weather conditions, and injuries sustained by workers. The Company had no non-cancelable contracts as of August 30, 2017 .


81



Cheeseburger in Paradise, Royalty Commitment

The license agreement and trade name relates to a perpetual license to use intangible assets including trademarks, service marks and publicity rights related to Cheeseburger in Paradise owned by Jimmy Buffett and affiliated entities. In return, the Company will pay a royalty fee of 2.5% of gross sales, less discounts, at the Company's operating Cheeseburger in Paradise locations to an entity owned or controlled by Jimmy Buffett. The trade name represents a respected brand with positive customer loyalty, and the Company intends to cultivate and protect the use of the trade name.
  
Note 13. Operating Leases
 
The Company conducts part of its operations from facilities that are leased under non-cancelable lease agreements. Lease agreements generally contain a primary term of five to 30 years with options to renew or extend the lease from one to 25 years. As of August 30, 2017 , the Company has lease agreements for 91 properties which include the Company’s corporate office, facility service warehouse, two remote office spaces, and restaurant properties. The leasing terms of the 91 properties consist of 13 properties expiring in less than one year, 56 properties expiring between one and five years and the remaining 22 properties having current terms that are greater than five years. Of the 91 leased properties, 66 properties have options remaining to renew or extend the lease.
 
A majority of the leases include periodic escalation clauses. Accordingly, the Company follows the straight-line rent method of recognizing lease rental expense.
 
As of August 30, 2017 , the Company has entered into noncancelable operating lease agreements for certain office equipment with terms ranging from 36 to 60 months .
 
Annual future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases with terms in excess of one year as of August 30, 2017 are as follows:
 
Fiscal Year Ending:
(In thousands)
August 29, 2018
$
11,747

August 28, 2019
10,088

August 26, 2020
7,777

August 25, 2021
6,287

August 31, 2022
5,122

Thereafter
25,078

Total minimum lease payments
$
66,099

 
Most of the leases are for periods of 5 to thirty years and some leases provide for contingent rentals based on sales in excess of a base amount.
 
Total rent expense for operating leases for fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was as follows:
 
 
Year Ended
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
August 26,
2015
 
(In thousands, except percentages)
Minimum rent-facilities
$
11,849

 
$
12,341

 
$
12,547

Contingent rentals
86

 
164

 
129

Minimum rent-equipment
758

 
712

 
805

Total rent expense (including amounts in discontinued operations)
$
12,693

 
$
13,217

 
$
13,481

Percent of sales
3.4
%
 
3.3
%
 
3.4
%
 
See Note 15, “Related Parties,” for lease payments associated with related parties.


82



Note 14. Share-Based Compensation
 
We have two active share-based stock plans, the Luby's Incentive Stock Plan, as amended and restated effective December 5, 2015 (the "Employee Stock Plan ") and the Nonemployee Director Stock Plan. Both plans authorize the granting of stock options, restricted stock, and other types of awards consistent with the purpose of the plans.
 
Of the 1.1 million shares approved for issuance under the Nonemployee Director Stock Plan, 1.1 million options, restricted stock units and restricted stock awards were granted, 0.1 million options were cancelled or expired and added back into the plan, since the plans inception. Approximately 0.1 million shares remain available for future issuance as of August 30, 2017 . Compensation cost for share-based payment arrangements under the Nonemployee Director Stock Plan, recognized in selling, general and administrative expenses for fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was approximately $0.7 million , $0.7 million , and $0.7 million , respectively.
 
Of the 4.1 million shares approved for issuance under the Employee Stock Plan (which amount includes shares authorized under the original plan and shares authorized pursuant to the amended and restated plan effective as of December 5, 2015), 6.1 million options and restricted stock units were granted, 3.7 million options and restricted stock units were cancelled or expired and added back into the plan, since the plans inception in 2005. Approximately 1.7 million shares remain available for future issuance as of August 30, 2017 . Compensation cost for share-based payment arrangements under the Employee Stock Plan, recognized in selling, general and administrative expenses for fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was approximately $0.9 million , $1.0 million , and $0.9 million , respectively. Included in these costs for fiscal 2016 was approximately $252 thousand , which represented accelerated share-based compensation expense as a result of the rescission of 312,663 stock options.

In fiscal 2015, 2016, and 2017, the Company approved a Total Shareholder Return, (“TSR”), Performance Based Incentive Plan which provides for a right to receive an unspecified number of shares of common stock under the Employee Stock Plan based on the total shareholder return ranking compared to a selection of peer companies over a three -year cycle, for each plan year. The award value varies from 0% to 200% of a base amount, as a result of the Company’s TSR performance in comparison to its peers over the measurement period. The number of shares at the end of the three -year measurement period will be determined as the award value divided by the closing stock price on the last day of each fiscal year accordingly. Each three -year measurement period is designated a plan year name based on year one of the measurement period. Since the plans provide for an undeterminable number of awards, the plans are accounted for as liability based plans. The liability valuation estimate for each plan year has been determined based on a Monte Carlo simulation model. Based on this estimate, management accrues expense ratably over the three -year service periods. A valuation estimate of the future liability associated with each fiscal year's performance award plan is performed periodically with adjustments made to the outstanding liability at each reporting period to properly state the outstanding liability for all plan years in the aggregate as of the respective balance sheet date. As of August 30, 2017 , the valuation estimate which represents the fair value of the performance awards liability for all plan years resulted in an aggregate liability of approximately $0.8 million . Non-cash compensation expense related to the Company's TSR Performance Based Incentive Plans was an expense of approximately $38 thousand , $684 thousand and $108 thousand in fiscal 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively, and are recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses. The number of shares awarded for the 2015 TSR Performance Based Incentive Plan was based on the Company's stock price at closing on the last day of fiscal 2017. The number of shares at the end of each plans' three-year periods will be determined as the award value divided by the Company's closing stock price on the last day of the plans fiscal year.
  
Stock Options
 
Stock options granted under either the Employee Stock Plan or the Nonemployee Director Stock Plan have exercise prices equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of the grant. The market price under the Employee Stock Plan is the closing price at the date of the grant. The market price under the Nonemployee Director Plan is the average of the high and the low price on the date of the grant.
 
Option awards under the Nonemployee Director Stock Plan generally vest 100% on the first anniversary of the grant date and expire ten years from the grant date. No options were granted under the Nonemployee Director Stock Plan in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , or 2015 . No options to purchase shares remain outstanding under this plan, as of August 30, 2017 .
 
Options granted under the Employee Stock Plan generally vest 50% on the first anniversary of grant date, 25% on the second anniversary of the grant date and 25% on the third anniversary of the grant date, with all options expiring ten years from the grant date. All options granted in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 were granted under the Employee Stock Plan. Options to purchase 1,345,916 shares at options prices from $3.44 to $11.10 per share remain outstanding as of August 30, 2017 .
 

83



The Company has segregated option awards into two homogenous groups for the purpose of determining fair values for its options because of differences in option terms and historical exercise patterns among the plans. Valuation assumptions are determined separately for the two groups which represent, respectively, the Employee Stock Plan and the Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan. The assumptions are as follows:

The Company estimated volatility using its historical share price performance over the expected life of the option. Management believes the historical estimated volatility is materially indicative of expectations about expected future volatility.
The Company uses an estimate of expected lives for options granted during the period based on historical data.
The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for the expected term of the option.
The expected dividend yield is based on the Company’s current dividend yield and the best estimate of projected dividend yield for future periods within the expected life of the option.
 
The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of the grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model which determine inputs as shown in the following table for options granted under the Employee Stock Plan:
 
 
Fiscal   Year Ended
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
August 26,
2015
 
(In thousands, except percentages)
Dividend yield
0
%
 
0
%
 
0
%
Volatility
37.65
%
 
39.64
%
 
42.30
%
Risk-free interest rate
1.99
%
 
1.82
%
 
1.41
%
Expected life (in years)
5.87

 
5.58

 
5.61

  
A summary of the Company’s stock option activity for fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 is presented in the following table:  
 
 
Shares
Under
Fixed
Options
 
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
 
 
 
 
(Years)
 
(In thousands)
Outstanding at August 27, 2014
800,754

 
$
4.95

 
4.1

 
$
583

Granted
628,060

 
4.49

 

 

Exercised
(57,007
)
 
3.45

 

 

Forfeited
(1,523
)
 
5.59

 

 

Expired
(82,185
)
 
5.47

 

 

Outstanding at August 26, 2015
1,288,099

 
$
4.76

 
6.5

 
$
350

Granted
279,944

 
4.89

 

 

Exercised
(21,249
)
 
3.51

 

 

Cancelled
(312,663
)
 
4.98

 

 

Forfeited
(55,893
)
 
4.80

 

 

Expired
(9,000
)
 
3.44

 

 

Outstanding at August 31, 2016
1,169,238

 
$
4.76

 
6.6

 
$
178

Granted
295,869

 
4.26

 

 

Exercised
0

 
0.00

 

 

Cancelled
(9,290
)
 
4.49

 

 

Forfeited
(72,212
)
 
4.57

 

 
 
Expired
(37,689
)
 
5.39

 

 

Outstanding at August 30, 2017
1,345,916

 
$
4.64

 
6.4

 
$
0

Exercisable at August 30, 2017
872,216

 
$
4.74

 
5.2

 
$
0


84



 
The intrinsic value for stock options is defined as the difference between the current market value and the grant price.
 
At August 30, 2017 , there was approximately $0.4 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested options that are expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.4 years.
 
The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was $1.66 , $1.92 , and $1.83 per share, respectively.
 
During fiscal 2017 , no options were exercised. During fiscal 2016 and 2015 cash received from options exercised was approximately $82 thousand and $190 thousand , respectively.
 
Restricted Stock Units
 
Grants of restricted stock units consist of the Company’s common stock and generally vest after three years. All restricted stock units are cliff-vested. Restricted stock units are valued at market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant. The market price under the Employee Stock Plan is the closing price at the date of the grant. The market price under the Nonemployee Director Plan is the average of the high and the low price on the date of the grant.

A summary of the Company’s restricted stock unit activity during fiscal years is presented in the following table:
 
 
Restricted Stock
Units
 
Weighted
Average
Fair Value
 
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual Term
 
 
 
(Per share)
 
(In years)
Unvested at August 27, 2014
397,837

 
$
6.03

 
1.6

Granted
84,495

 
4.54

 

Vested
(72,915
)
 
4.55

 

Forfeited

 

 

Unvested at August 26, 2015
409,417

 
$
5.98

 
1.6

Granted
172,212

 
4.87

 

Vested
(257,482
)
 
6.19

 

Forfeited
(9,314
)
 
5.37

 

Unvested at August 31, 2016
314,833

 
$
5.23

 
1.9

Granted
200,549

 
4.26

 

Vested
(92,058
)
 
6.30

 

Forfeited
(18,960
)
 
4.55

 

Unvested at August 30, 2017
404,364

 
$
4.54

 
1.8

 
At August 30, 2017 , there was approximately $0.9 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted stock units that is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years.
 
Restricted Stock Awards
 
Under the Nonemployee Director Stock Plan, directors are granted restricted stock in lieu of cash payments, for all or a portion of their compensation as directors. Directors may receive a 20% premium of additional restricted stock by opting to receive stock over a minimum required amount of stock, in lieu of cash. The number of shares granted is valued at the average of the high and low price of the Company’s stock at the date of the grant. Restricted stock awards vest when granted because they are granted in lieu of a cash payment. However, directors are restricted from selling their shares until after the third anniversary of the date of the grant.
 

85



Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
 
The Company has a Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”) designed to provide benefits for selected officers at normal retirement age with 25 years of service equal to 50% of their final average compensation offset by Social Security, profit sharing benefits, and deferred compensation. None of the Company’s executive officers participates in the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan. Some of the officers designated to participate in the plan have retired and are receiving benefits under the plan. Accrued benefits of all actively employed participants become fully vested upon termination of the plan or a change in control (as defined in the plan). The plan is unfunded and the Company is obligated to make benefit payments solely on a current disbursement basis. On December 6, 2005, the Board of Directors voted to amend the SERP and suspend the further accrual of benefits and participation. As a result, a curtailment gain of approximately $88,000 was recognized. The net benefit recognized for the SERP for the years ended August 30, 2017 , August 31, 2016 , and August 26, 2015 , was zero , and the unfunded accrued liability included in “Other Liabilities” on the Company’s consolidated Balance Sheets as of August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016 was approximately $45 thousand and $58 thousand , respectively.
 
Nonemployee Director Phantom Stock Plan
 
Under the Company’s Nonemployee Director Phantom Stock Plan (“Phantom Stock Plan”), nonemployee directors deferred portions of their retainer and meeting fees which, along with certain matching incentives, were credited to phantom stock accounts in the form of phantom shares priced at the market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Additionally, the phantom stock accounts were credited with dividends, if any, paid on the common stock represented by phantom shares. Authorized shares ( 100,000 shares) under the Phantom Stock Plan were fully depleted in early fiscal 2003; since that time, no deferrals, incentives or dividends have been credited to phantom stock accounts. As participants cease to be directors, their phantom shares are converted into an equal number of shares of common stock and issued from the Company’s treasury stock. As of August 30, 2017 , 29,627 phantom shares remained unissued under the Phantom Stock Plan.

401 (k) Plan
 
The Company has a voluntary 401(k) employee savings plan to provide substantially all employees of the Company an opportunity to accumulate personal funds for their retirement. The Company matches 25% of participants’ contributions made to the plan up to 6% of their salary. The net expense recognized in connection with the employer match feature of the voluntary 401(k) employee savings plan for the years ended August 30, 2017 , August 31, 2016 , and August 26, 2015 , was approximately $359 thousand , $350 thousand , and $255 thousand , respectively.
 
Note 15. Related Parties
 
Affiliate Services
 
The Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Christopher J. Pappas, and Harris J. Pappas, a Director of the Company, own two restaurant entities (the “Pappas entities”) that may, from time to time, provide services to the Company and its subsidiaries, as detailed in the Amended and Restated Master Sales Agreement dated May 28, 2015 among the Company and the Pappas entities.
 
Under the terms of the Amended and Restated Master Sales Agreement, the Pappas entities continue to provide specialized (customized) equipment fabrication, primarily for new construction, and basic equipment maintenance, including stainless steel stoves, shelving, rolling carts, and chef tables. The total costs under the Master Sales Agreement of custom-fabricated and refurbished equipment in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 were approximately $4 thousand , $2 thousand , and zero , respectively. Services provided under this agreement are subject to review and approval by the Finance and Audit Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors.
 
Operating Leases
 
In the third quarter of fiscal 2004, Messrs. Pappas became partners in a limited partnership which purchased a retail strip center in Houston, Texas. Messrs. Pappas collectively own a 50% limited partnership interest and a 50% general partnership interest in the limited partnership. A third party company manages the center. One of the Company’s restaurants has rented approximately 7% of the space in that center since July 1969. No changes were made to the Company’s lease terms as a result of the transfer of ownership of the center to the new partnership.


86



On November 22, 2006, the Company executed a new lease agreement with respect to this shopping center. Effective upon the Company’s relocation and occupancy into the new space in July 2008, the new lease agreement provides for a primary term of approximately 12 years with two subsequent five -year options and gives the landlord an option to buy out the tenant on or after the calendar year 2015 by paying the then unamortized cost of improvements to the tenant. The Company paid rent of $22.00 per square foot plus maintenance, taxes, and insurance during the remaining primary term of the lease. Thereafter, the lease provides for increases in rent at set intervals. The Company made payments of approximately $419 thousand , $417 thousand , and $416 thousand in fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively, under the lease agreement. The new lease agreement was approved by the Finance and Audit Committee.
 
In the third quarter of fiscal 2014, on March 12, 2014, the Company executed a new lease agreement for one of the Company’s Houston Fuddruckers locations with Pappas Restaurants, Inc. The lease provides for a primary term of approximately six years with two subsequent five -year options. Pursuant to the new ground lease agreement, the Company paid rent of $28.06 per square foot plus maintenance, taxes, and insurance from March 12, 2014 until May 31, 2020. Thereafter, the new ground lease agreement provides for increases in rent at set intervals. The Company made payments of $162 thousand , $160 thousand , and $160 thousand during fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively.
 
Affiliated rents paid for the Houston property lease represented 2.7% , 2.6% , and 2.7% of total rents for continuing operations for fiscal 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively.
 
Board of Directors
 
Pursuant to the terms of a separate Purchase Agreement dated March 9, 2001, entered into by and among the Company, Christopher J. Pappas and Harris J. Pappas, the Company agreed to submit three persons designated by Christopher J. Pappas and Harris J. Pappas as nominees for election at the 2002 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Messrs. Pappas designated themselves and Frank Markantonis as their nominees for directors, all of whom were subsequently elected. Christopher J. Pappas and Harris J. Pappas are brothers and Frank Markantonis is an attorney whose principal client is Pappas Restaurants, Inc., an entity owned by Harris J. Pappas and Christopher J. Pappas.

Christopher J. Pappas is a member of the Advisory Board of Amegy Bank, a Division of ZB, N.A. (formerly, Amegy Bank, N.A.), which was a lender and syndication agent under the Company’s 2013 Revolving Credit Facility.
 
Key Management Personnel
 
The Company entered into a new employment agreement with Christopher Pappas on January 24, 2014. The employment agreement was amended on August 2, 2017, to extend the termination date thereof to August 29, 2018. Mr. Pappas continues to devote his primary time and business efforts to the Company while maintaining his role at Pappas Restaurants, Inc.
 
Peter Tropoli, a director of the Company and the Company’s Chief Operating Officer, and formerly the Company’s Senior Vice President, Administration, General Counsel and Secretary, is an attorney and stepson of Frank Markantonis, who is a director of the Company.
 
Paulette Gerukos, Vice President of Human Resources of the Company, is the sister-in-law of Harris J. Pappas, who is a director of the Company.
 
Note 16. Common Stock
 
At August 30, 2017 , the Company had 500,000 shares of common stock reserved for issuance upon the exercise of outstanding stock options.
 
Treasury Shares
 
In February 2008, the Company acquired 500,000 treasury shares for $4.8 million .
 

87



Note 17. Earnings Per Share
 
A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of basic earnings per share and earnings per share assuming dilution is shown in the table below:
 
 
Fiscal   Year Ended
 
August 30,
2017
 
August 31,
2016
 
August 26,
2015
 
(In thousands, except per share data)
Numerator:
 
 
 
 
 
Loss from continuing operations
$
(22,796
)
 
$
(10,256
)
 
$
(1,616
)
NET LOSS
$
(23,262
)
 
$
(10,346
)
 
$
(2,074
)
Denominator:
 
 
 
 
 
Denominator for basic earnings per share—weighted-average shares
29,476

 
29,226

 
28,974

Effect of potentially dilutive securities:
 
 
 
 
 
Employee and non-employee stock options

 

 

Denominator for earnings per share assuming dilution
29,476

 
29,226

 
28,974

Loss from continuing operations:
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.77
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.06
)
Assuming dilution (a)
$
(0.77
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.06
)
Net loss per share:
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.79
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.07
)
Assuming dilution (a)
$
(0.79
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.07
)
(a) Potentially dilutive shares, not included in the computation of net income per share because to do so would have been antidilutive, totaled 3,000 shares in fiscal 2017 , 55,000 shares in fiscal 2016 , and 77,000 shares in fiscal 2015 . Additionally, stock options with exercise prices exceeding market close prices that were excluded from the computation of net income per share amounted to 1,346,000 shares in fiscal 2017 , 494,000 shares in fiscal 2016 , and 415,000 shares in fiscal 2015 .


88



Note 18. Quarterly Financial Information
 
The following tables summarize quarterly unaudited financial information for fiscal 2017 and 2016 .
 
 
Quarter Ended   (a)
 
August 30,
2017
 
June 7,
2017
 
March 15,
2017
 
December 21,
2016
 
(84 days)
 
(84 days)
 
(84 days)
 
(112 days)
 
(In thousands, except per share data)
Restaurant sales
$
79,078

 
$
82,594

 
$
81,064

 
$
108,082

Franchise revenue
1,556

 
1,477

 
1,819

 
1,871

Culinary contract services
5,825

 
4,515

 
3,306

 
4,297

Vending revenue
130

 
133

 
125

 
159

Total sales
$
86,589

 
$
88,719

 
$
86,314

 
$
114,409

Loss from continuing operations
(4,069
)
 
(377
)
 
(12,836
)
 
(5,514
)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations
(32
)
 
(19
)
 
(343
)
 
(72
)
Net loss
$
(4,101
)
 
$
(396
)
 
$
(13,179
)
 
$
(5,586
)
Net loss per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.14
)
 
$
(0.01
)
 
$
(0.45
)
 
$
(0.19
)
Assuming dilution
$
(0.14
)
 
$
(0.01
)
 
$
(0.45
)
 
$
(0.19
)
Costs and Expenses ( as a percentage of restaurant sales )
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of food
28.3
%
 
27.8
%
 
27.9
%
 
28.5
%
Payroll and related costs
36.1
%
 
35.7
%
 
36.1
%
 
35.8
%
Other operating expenses
18.6
%
 
16.7
%
 
17.0
%
 
18.2
%
Occupancy costs
6.4
%
 
6.0
%
 
6.6
%
 
6.0
%
 
 
Quarter Ended   (a)
 
August 31, 2016
 
June 1,
2016
 
March 9,
2016
 
December 16,
2015
 
(91 days)
 
(84 days)
 
(84 days)
 
(112 days)
 
(In thousands, except per share data)
Restaurant sales
$
91,775

 
$
86,476

 
$
86,314

 
$
113,546

Franchise revenue
1,839

 
1,586

 
1,700

 
2,125

Culinary contract services
3,970

 
3,892

 
3,918

 
4,915

Vending revenue
145

 
143

 
137

 
158

Total sales
$
97,729

 
$
92,097

 
92,069

 
$
120,744

Loss from continuing operations
(7,789
)
 
(147
)
 
(582
)
 
(1,738
)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations
(13
)
 
13

 
(17
)
 
(73
)
Net loss
$
(7,802
)
 
$
(134
)
 
$
(599
)
 
$
(1,811
)
Net loss per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.27
)
 
$

 
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.06
)
Assuming dilution
$
(0.27
)
 
$

 
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.06
)
Costs and Expenses ( as a percentage of restaurant sales )
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of food
28.0
%
 
28.0
%
 
28.5
%
 
28.6
%
Payroll and related costs
35.9
%
 
35.6
%
 
34.6
%
 
34.7
%
Other operating expenses
16.6
%
 
15.7
%
 
15.9
%
 
16.2
%
Occupancy costs
5.6
%
 
5.9
%
 
6.4
%
 
5.8
%
(a) The fiscal quarters ended, December 21, 2016 and December 16, 2015, consist of fou r four-week periods and the fiscal quarter ended August 31, 2016 , consists of two four-week periods and one five week period.


89



Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
 
We have had no disagreements with our accountants on any accounting or financial disclosures.
 
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Control and Procedures
 
Our management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), as of August 30, 2017 . Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of August 30, 2017 , our disclosure controls and procedures were effective in providing reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to the issuer’s management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f). Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect material misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we have evaluated the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework-2013 issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on our evaluation, we concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of August 30, 2017 .
 
Grant Thornton LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this report, has also audited the effectiveness our internal control over financial reporting as of August 30, 2017 , as stated in their attestation report which is included under Item 8 of this report.
 
Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
Included in Item 8 of this report.
 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
Except as noted above, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended August 30, 2017 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
Item 9B. Other Information
 
None.
  


90



PART III
 
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

There is incorporated in this Item 10 by reference that portion of our definitive proxy statement for the 2018 annual meeting of shareholders appearing therein under the captions “Election of Directors,” “Corporate Governance,” “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance,” “Executive Officers,” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.”
 
We have in place a Policy Guide on Standards of Conduct and Ethics applicable to all employees, as well as the Board of Directors, and Supplemental Standards of Conduct and Ethics for the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Controller, and all senior financial officers. This Policy Guide and the Supplemental Standards were filed as exhibits to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 26, 2003 and can be found on our website at www.lubys.com. We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirement under Item 5.05 of Form 8-K regarding amendments to or waivers from the code of ethics or supplementary code of ethics by posting such information on our website at www.lubys.com.
 
Item 11. Executive Compensation
 
There is incorporated in this Item 11 by reference that portion of our definitive proxy statement for the 2018 annual meeting of shareholders appearing therein under the captions “Compensation Discussion and Analysis—Executive Compensation,” “—Executive Compensation Committee Report,” “—Compensation Tables and Information,” “—Director Compensation,” and “Corporate Governance—Executive Compensation Committee—Compensation Committee Interlocks.”
 
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
 
There is incorporated in this Item 12 by reference that portion of our definitive proxy statement for the 2018 annual meeting of shareholders appearing therein under the captions “Ownership of Equity Securities in the Company” and “Principal Shareholders.”
 
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
 
There is incorporated in this Item 13 by reference that portion of our definitive proxy statement for the 2018 annual meeting of shareholders appearing therein under the captions, “Corporate Governance Guidelines—Director Independence” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.”
 
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
 
There is incorporated in this Item 14 by reference that portion of our definitive proxy statement for the 2018 annual meeting of shareholders appearing therein under the caption “Fees Paid To The Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.”  

91



PART IV
 
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
 
1 .
Financial Statements 
 
     
The following financial statements are filed as part of this Report:
 
    
Consolidated balance sheets at August 30, 2017 and August 31, 2016.
 
    
Consolidated statements of operations for each of the three years in the period ended August 30, 2017.
 
    
Consolidated statements of shareholders’ equity for each of the three years in the period ended August 30, 2017. 
 
    
Consolidated statements of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended August 30, 2017.
 
    
Notes to consolidated financial statements
 
    
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Grant Thornton LLP
 
2 .
Financial Statement Schedules 
 
All schedules are omitted since the required information is not present or is not present in amounts sufficient to require submission of the schedule or because the information required is included in the financial statements and notes thereto.
 
3 .
Exhibits 
 
The following exhibits are filed as a part of this Report:
 
3(a)
  
  
3(b)
 
 
3(c)
 
 
10(a)
 
 

92



10(b)
 
 
10(c)
 
 
10(d)
 
 
10(e)
  
  
10(f)
  
  
10(g)
  
  
10(h)
  
  
10(i)
  
  
10(j)
 
 
10(k)
 
 
10(l)
 
 
10(m)
 
 
10(n)
 
 
10(o)

93



  
  
10(p)
 
 
10(q)
  
  
10(r)
 
 
10(s)
 
 
10(t)
 
 
11
  
  
14(a)
  
  
14(b)
  
  
21
  
  
23.1
  
  
31.1
  
  
31.2
  
  
32.1
  
  
32.2
 
 
99(a)
  
  
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
  
  

94



101.SCH
XBRL Schema Document
  
  
101.CAL
XBRL Calculation Linkbase Document
  
  
101.DEF
XBRL Definition Linkbase Document
  
  
101.LAB
XBRL Label Linkbase Document
  
  
101.PRE
XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document

__________________________  

*
Denotes management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
**
Information required to be presented in Exhibit 11 is provided in Note 17 “Earnings Per Share” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K in accordance with the provisions of FASB Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 128, Earnings per Share.

95





SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. 
November 13, 2017
 
LUBY’S, INC.
Date
  
(Registrant)
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/    CHRISTOPHER J. PAPPAS        
 
 
Christopher J. Pappas
 
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature and Title
Date  
  
  
/S/    GASPER MIR, III
November 13, 2017
Gasper Mir, III, Director and Chairman of the Board
 
  
  
/S/    CHRISTOPHER J. PAPPAS
November 13, 2017
Christopher J. Pappas, Director, President and Chief
Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
  
  
/S/    PETER TROPOLI 
November 13, 2017
Peter Tropoli, Director and Chief Operating Officer
 
  
  
/S/    K. SCOTT GRAY 
November 13, 2017
K. Scott Gray, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer, and Principal Accounting Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
 
  
  
/S/    HARRIS J. PAPPAS
November 13, 2017
Harris J. Pappas, Director
 
  
  
/S/    GERALD W. BODZY
November 13, 2017
Gerald W. Bodzy, Director
 
 
 
/S/    JUDITH B. CRAVEN
November 13, 2017
Judith B. Craven, Director
 
  
  
/S/     ARTHUR R. EMERSON 
November 13, 2017
Arthur R. Emerson, Director
 
  
  
/S/    JILL GRIFFIN
November 13, 2017
Jill Griffin, Director
 
  
  
/S/    FRANK MARKANTONIS 
November 13, 2017
Frank Markantonis, Director
 
  
  
/S/    JOE C. MCKINNEY 
November 13, 2017
Joe C. McKinney, Director
 

96
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