UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the Quarterly Period Ended September 26, 2007

 

Commission File Number 1-10275

 

 

BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

DELAWARE

75-1914582

(State or other jurisdiction of

(I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)

Identification No.)

 

6820 LBJ FREEWAY, DALLAS, TEXAS 75240

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)

 

(972) 980-9917

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes  
x  No   o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer   x      Accelerated filer   o      Non-accelerated filer   o

 

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

Yes   o  No   x

 

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

 

Class

 

Outstanding at October 31, 2007

 

Common Stock, $0.10 par value

 

105,268,712 shares

 

 

 



 

BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

 

INDEX

 

 

Page

Part I - Financial Information

 

 

 

Item 1.      Financial Statements

 

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets -

3

September 26, 2007 (Unaudited) and June 27, 2007

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Income

4

(Unaudited) - Thirteen week periods ended

 

September 26, 2007 and September 27, 2006

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

5

(Unaudited) - Thirteen week periods ended

 

September 26, 2007 and September 27, 2006

 

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

6

 

 

Item 2.      Management’s Discussion and Analysis of

10

  Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

 

 

Item 3.      Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures

 

  About Market Risk

16

 

 

Item 4.      Controls and Procedures

16

 

 

Part II - Other Information

 

 

 

Item 1.      Legal Proceedings

20

 

 

Item 1A.   Risk Factors

20

 

 

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

20

 

 

Item 6.      Exhibits

20

 

 

Signatures

21

 

2



 

PART I.    FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.      FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)

 

 

 

September 26,
2007

 

June 27,
2007

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

Current Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

78,943

 

$

84,823

 

Accounts receivable

 

41,996

 

49,851

 

Inventories

 

26,701

 

29,189

 

Prepaid expenses and other

 

68,004

 

70,515

 

Deferred income taxes

 

19,686

 

16,100

 

Assets held for sale

 

407,172

 

417,842

 

Total current assets

 

642,502

 

668,320

 

Property and Equipment at Cost:

 

 

 

 

 

Land

 

193,478

 

193,600

 

Buildings and leasehold improvements

 

1,449,250

 

1,395,299

 

Furniture and equipment

 

622,238

 

612,610

 

Construction-in-progress

 

68,787

 

94,636

 

 

 

2,333,753

 

2,296,145

 

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

 

(851,620

)

(826,559

)

Net property and equipment

 

1,482,133

 

1,469,586

 

Other Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Goodwill

 

138,959

 

138,876

 

Deferred income taxes

 

12,805

 

4,778

 

Other

 

37,384

 

36,461

 

Total other assets

 

189,148

 

180,115

 

Total assets

 

$

2,313,783

 

$

2,318,021

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Current installments of long-term debt

 

$

1,812

 

$

1,761

 

Accounts payable

 

150,991

 

167,789

 

Accrued liabilities

 

319,950

 

330,031

 

Income taxes payable

 

7,798

 

21,555

 

Liabilities associated with assets held for sale

 

21,416

 

21,046

 

Total current liabilities

 

501,967

 

542,182

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt, less current installments

 

952,995

 

826,918

 

Other liabilities

 

162,471

 

143,832

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 9)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ Equity:

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock - 250,000,000 authorized shares; $0.10 par value; 176,246,649 shares issued and 105,243,779 shares outstanding at September 26, 2007, and 176,246,666 shares issued and 110,127,072 shares outstanding at June 27, 2007

 

17,625

 

17,625

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

450,332

 

450,665

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(41

)

(37

)

Retained earnings

 

1,820,097

 

1,791,311

 

 

 

2,288,013

 

2,259,564

 

Less Treasury stock, at cost (71,002,870 shares at September 26, 2007 and 66,119,594 shares at June 27, 2007)

 

(1,591,663

)

(1,454,475

)

Total shareholders’ equity

 

696,350

 

805,089

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

$

2,313,783

 

$

2,318,021

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

3



 

BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Income

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Thirteen Week Periods Ended

 

 

 

 

September 26,

 

September 27,

 

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

895,086

 

$

869,283

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating Costs and Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of sales

 

245,618

 

238,415

 

 

Restaurant expenses

 

502,153

 

481,002

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

38,535

 

40,230

 

 

General and administrative

 

40,938

 

48,140

 

 

Other gains and charges

 

512

 

(3,241

)

 

Total operating costs and expenses

 

827,756

 

804,546

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

67,330

 

64,737

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense

 

12,915

 

6,237

 

 

Other, net

 

(1,257

)

(837

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before provision for income taxes

 

55,672

 

59,337

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provision for income taxes

 

17,136

 

19,265

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations

 

38,536

 

40,072

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of taxes

 

(936

)

7,567

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

37,600

 

$

47,639

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic net income per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations

 

$

0.36

 

$

0.32

 

 

(Loss) income from discontinued operations

 

$

(0.01

)

$

0.06

 

 

Net income per share

 

$

0.35

 

$

0.38

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted net income per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations

 

$

0.35

 

$

0.32

 

 

(Loss) income from discontinued operations

 

$

(0.01

)

$

0.06

 

 

Net income per share

 

$

0.34

 

$

0.38

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic weighted average shares outstanding

 

106,464

 

124,280

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding

 

109,155

 

126,098

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash dividends per share

 

$

0.09

 

$

0.07

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

4



 

BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Thirteen Week Periods Ended

 

 

 

September 26,

 

September 27,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

37,600

 

$

47,639

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

38,535

 

40,230

 

Restructure charges and other impairments

 

512

 

 

Stock-based compensation

 

3,201

 

11,232

 

Deferred income taxes

 

(5,799

)

(13,468

)

Gain on sale of assets

 

 

(582

)

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of taxes

 

936

 

(7,567

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding effects of dispositions:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

7,856

 

7,216

 

Inventories

 

2,504

 

1,947

 

Prepaid expenses and other

 

3,429

 

6,063

 

Other assets

 

(1,131

)

(3,400

)

Accounts payable

 

749

 

(6,167

)

Accrued liabilities

 

(11,803

)

(19,594

)

Income taxes payable

 

4,046

 

22,203

 

Other liabilities

 

(2,695

)

6,799

 

Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations

 

77,940

 

92,551

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Payments for property and equipment

 

(70,908

)

(86,387

)

Proceeds from sale of assets

 

 

20,123

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities of continuing operations

 

(70,908

)

(66,264

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net borrowings on credit facilities

 

126,500

 

4,874

 

Payments on long-term debt

 

(266

)

(410

)

Purchases of treasury stock

 

(140,489

)

(38,863

)

Proceeds from issuances of treasury stock

 

1,680

 

8,020

 

Payments of dividends

 

(9,509

)

(8,266

)

Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation

 

167

 

538

 

Net cash used in financing activities of continuing operations

 

(21,917

)

(34,107

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash Flows from Discontinued Operations:

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations

 

14,953

 

16,344

 

Net cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations

 

(5,948

)

(4,488

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by discontinued operations

 

9,005

 

11,856

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

 

(5,880

)

4,036

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

 

84,823

 

55,016

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 

$

78,943

 

$

59,052

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

5



 

BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

 

1.     BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

References to “Brinker,” “the Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” in this Form 10-Q are references to Brinker International, Inc. and its subsidiaries and any predecessor companies of Brinker International, Inc.

 

Our consolidated financial statements as of September 26, 2007 and June 27, 2007 and for the thirteen week periods ended September 26, 2007 and September 27, 2006 have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).  We  own, operate, or franchise various restaurant brands under the names of Chili’s Grill & Bar (“Chili’s”), Romano’s Macaroni Grill (“Macaroni Grill”), On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina (“On The Border”), and Maggiano’s Little Italy (“Maggiano’s”).  Beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2008, Macaroni Grill has been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements.  See Note 5 for additional disclosures.

 

The information furnished herein reflects all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring accruals and adjustments) which are, in our opinion, necessary to fairly state the interim operating results for the respective periods.  However, these operating results are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full fiscal year.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been omitted pursuant to SEC rules and regulations. The notes to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited) should be read in conjunction with the notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in the June 27, 2007 Form 10-K. We believe the disclosures are sufficient for interim financial reporting purposes.

 

In November 2006, the Board of Directors declared and paid a three-for-two stock split, effected in the form of a 50% stock dividend. As a result of the split, approximately 58.7 million shares of common stock were issued in November 2006. All references to the number of shares and per share amounts of common stock have been restated to reflect the stock split. Shareholders’ equity accounts have been restated to reflect the reclassification of the par value of the increase in issued common shares from the retained earnings account to the common stock account.

 

Certain prior year amounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform with fiscal 2008 presentation. These reclassifications have no effect on our net income or financial position as previously reported.

 

2.     EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the reporting period.  Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock.  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 and restricted share awards determined using the treasury stock method.  We had approximately 1.1 million stock options and restricted share awards outstanding at September 26, 2007 and 4.0 million stock options and restricted share awards outstanding at September 27, 2006 that were not included in the dilutive earnings per share calculation because the effect would have been antidilutive.

 

6



 

3.     OTHER GAINS AND CHARGES

 

In the first quarter of fiscal 2008, we recorded asset impairment charges totaling $512,000 related to the relocation of a restaurant and the decrease in estimated sales value of land associated with a previously closed restaurant.  In the first quarter of fiscal 2007, we recorded a $3.2 million gain related to the termination of interest rate swaps on an operating lease commitment.

 

4.     DISPOSITION OF CHILI’S RESTAURANTS

 

In May 2007, we entered into an agreement with ERJ Dining IV, LLC to sell 76 company-owned Chili’s restaurants. This decision is the result of our strategy to increase the percentage of franchised restaurants through new and existing franchisees. Upon signing of the agreement, we determined that the plan of sale criteria in SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets” had been met. Accordingly, the assets and liabilities associated with this transaction have been classified as held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets and depreciation ceased on these assets in June 2007. The net assets to be sold totaled approximately $91.3 million at September 26, 2007 and consisted primarily of property and equipment of $86.2 million. The transaction closed on November 1, 2007, and we expect to record a gain in the financial statements during the second quarter of fiscal 2008.

 

5.     DISPOSITION OF MACARONI GRILL

 

We have committed to a plan to sell Macaroni Grill and expect that the sale transaction will be completed prior to the end of fiscal 2008.  The decision to sell the brand was the result of our focus on achieving return on investment and growth targets.  As of September 26, 2007, the net assets to be sold totaled approximately $294.5 million and consisted primarily of property and equipment of $289.3 million.  Macaroni Grill has been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements, and depreciation ceased on the assets associated with Macaroni Grill in September 2007.  Discontinued operations includes only the revenues and expenses which can be specifically identified with Macaroni Grill and excludes any allocation of corporate costs, including general and administrative expense, or rental charges on company-owned properties.  The results of Macaroni Grill consist of the following (in thousands):

 

 

 

Thirteen Week Periods Ended

 

 

 

September 26,

 

September 27,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

159,600

 

$

170,652

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other gains and charges (1)

 

$

8,079

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income before income taxes from discontinued operations

 

$

(2,809

)

$

10,616

 

Income tax benefit (expense)

 

1,873

 

(3,049

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income from discontinued operations

 

$

(936

)

$

7,567

 


(1)          During the first quarter of fiscal 2008, we signed an agreement to sell 16 Macaroni Grill restaurants to a franchisee.  As a result, other gains and charges consists primarily of an impairment charge of $9.2 million to adjust the value of the related restaurants’ carrying value to fair value less the expected cost to sell.  We expect the transaction to close in the second quarter of fiscal 2008.

 

6.     TAXES

 

Effective June 28, 2007, we adopted the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (“FASB”) Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN 48”). As a result of the adoption we recognized an $847,000 decrease in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits, net of the federal deferred tax benefit, with a corresponding increase to retained earnings.

 

7



 

We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various states and foreign jurisdictions. We are no longer subject to U.S. federal examinations by tax authorities for fiscal years before 2004.  Our U.S. income tax returns for fiscal years 2004 through 2005 have been audited and effectively settled during fiscal year 2007. We are audited by the taxing authorities of most states and certain foreign countries and are subject to examination by these taxing jurisdictions for fiscal years generally after 2003.

 

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of June 28, 2007 was $23.2 million ($17.4 million of which would favorably affect the effective tax rate if resolved in our favor due to the effect of deferred tax benefits).  Over the next twelve months, management anticipates that it is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could be reduced by approximately $786,000 ($604,000 of which would affect the effective tax rate due to the effect of deferred tax benefits) either because our tax position will be sustained upon audit or as a result of the expiration of the statute of limitations for specific jurisdictions.

               

We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.  We had $4.3 million ($3.3 million net of a federal deferred tax benefit) of interest and penalties accrued at June 28, 2007.

 

7.     SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

The Board of Directors has authorized a total of $2,060.0 million of share repurchases.  Pursuant to our stock repurchase plan, we repurchased approximately 5.0 million shares of our common stock for $140.0 million during the first quarter of fiscal 2008.  As of September 26, 2007, approximately $160.1 million was available under our share repurchase authorizations.  The repurchased common stock is reflected as a reduction of shareholders’ equity.  Our stock repurchase plan has been and will be used to return capital to shareholders and to minimize the dilutive impact of stock options and other share-based awards. In the future, we may consider additional share repurchases based on several factors, including our cash position, share price, operational liquidity, and planned investment and financing needs.  In August 2007, we announced the declaration of a dividend to common stock shareholders in the amount of $0.09 per share.  Dividends of $9.5 million were paid in September 2007.

 

8.     SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

 

Cash paid for income taxes and interest for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 and 2007 are as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

September 26,
2007

 

September 27,
2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes, net of refunds

 

$

15,479

 

$

11,303

 

Interest, net of amounts capitalized

 

10,487

 

1,917

 

 

Non-cash investing and financing activities for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 and 2007 are as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

September 26,
2007

 

September 27,
2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Retirement of fully depreciated assets

 

$

13,735

 

$

21,280

 

 

8



 

9.     CONTINGENCIES

 

As of September 26, 2007, we guarantee lease payments totaling $144.2 million as a result of the sale of certain brands and the sale of restaurants to franchisees.  This amount represents the maximum potential liability of future payments under the guarantees.  These leases have been assigned to the buyers and expire at the end of the respective lease terms, which range from fiscal 2008 through fiscal 2022.  We remain secondarily liable for the leases.  In the event of default, the terms and conditions in our assignment agreements govern our ability to pursue and recover damages incurred.  No material liabilities have been recorded as of September 26, 2007.

 

Certain current and former hourly restaurant employees filed a lawsuit against us in California Superior Court alleging violations of California labor laws with respect to meal and rest breaks.  The lawsuit seeks penalties and attorney’s fees and was certified as a class action in July 2006.  In October 2007, the California Court of Appeal decertified the class action on all claims.  The employees have appealed that decision to the California Supreme Court.  We intend to vigorously defend our position.  It is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the possible loss or range of loss, if any.

 

We are engaged in various legal proceedings and have certain unresolved claims pending. The ultimate liability, if any, for the aggregate amounts claimed cannot be determined at this time. However, based upon consultation with legal counsel, we are of the opinion that there are no matters pending or threatened which are expected to have a material adverse effect, individually or in the aggregate, on our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

 

10.  SUBSEQUENT EVENT

 

On October 24, 2007 we entered into a three-year term loan agreement for $400.0 million and terminated the one-year unsecured committed credit facility of $400.0 million set to expire in April 2008.  The term loan proceeds were used to pay off all outstanding amounts under the one-year unsecured committed credit facility.  The term loan bears interest at LIBOR plus an applicable margin, which is a function of our credit rating at such time, but is subject to a maximum of LIBOR plus 1.5%.

 

9



 

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The following table sets forth selected operating data as a percentage of total revenues from continuing operations for the periods indicated. All information is derived from the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

 

 

 

Thirteen Week Periods Ended

 

 

 

September 26,

 

September 27,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

100.0

%

100.0

%

Operating Costs and Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of sales

 

27.4

%

27.4

%

Restaurant expenses

 

56.1

%

55.3

%

Depreciation and amortization

 

4.3

%

4.6

%

General and administrative

 

4.6

%

5.6

%

Other gains and charges

 

0.1

%

(0.3

)%

Total operating costs and expenses

 

92.5

%

92.6

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

7.5

%

7.4

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense

 

1.4

%

0.7

%

Other, net

 

(0.1

)%

(0.1

)%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before provision for income taxes

 

6.2

%

6.8

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provision for income taxes

 

(1.9

)%

(2.2

)%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations

 

4.3

%

4.6

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of taxes

 

(0.1

)%

0.9

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

4.2

%

5.5

%

 

 

10



 

The following table details the number of restaurant openings during the first quarter, total restaurants open at the end of the first quarter, and total projected openings in fiscal 2008.

 

 

 

First Quarter
Openings

 

Total Open at End
Of First Quarter

 

Projected Openings

 

 

 

Fiscal

 

Fiscal

 

Fiscal

 

Fiscal

 

Fiscal

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

Chili’s:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Company-owned

 

13

 

28

 

930

 

916

 

64-67

 

Franchised

 

5

 

4

 

308

 

198

 

24-29

 

Total

 

18

 

32

 

1,238

 

1,114

 

88-96

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Macaroni Grill:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Company-owned

 

0

 

2

 

216

 

223

 

3

 

Franchised

 

1

 

0

 

14

 

11

 

8-10

 

Total

 

1

 

2

 

230

 

234

 

11-13

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On The Border:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Company-owned

 

2

 

2

 

134

 

125

 

7-9

 

Franchised

 

2

 

2

 

28

 

23

 

6-8

 

Total

 

4

 

4

 

162

 

148

 

13-17

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maggiano’s

 

0

 

1

 

41

 

38

 

1-3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

International: (a)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Company-owned

 

0

 

0

 

5

 

5

 

0-3

 

Franchised

 

4

 

4

 

151

 

123

 

40-45

 

Total

 

4

 

4

 

156

 

128

 

40-48

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total system restaurants

 

27

 

43

 

1,827

 

1,662

 

153-177

 


(a)                  At the end of the first quarter of fiscal year 2008, international company-owned restaurants by brand included four Chili’s and one Macaroni Grill.  International franchise restaurants by brand included 141 Chili’s and ten Macaroni Grill’s.

 

At September 26, 2007, we owned the land and buildings for 258 of the 1,110 company-owned restaurants (excluding Macaroni Grill).  The net book values of the land and buildings associated with these restaurants totaled $203.6 million and $214.2 million, respectively.

 

 

11



 

 

GENERAL

 

The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is intended to help the reader understand Brinker International, our operations, and our current operating environment. For an understanding of the significant factors that influenced our performance during the quarters ended September 26, 2007 and September 27, 2006, the MD&A should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in this quarterly report.  The results of operations discussed in MD&A exclude discontinued operations, except where otherwise noted.

 

OVERVIEW

 

At September 26, 2007, we owned, operated, or franchised 1,827 restaurants through our four brands:  Chili’s, Macaroni Grill, On The Border, and Maggiano’s.  Our results during the first quarter of fiscal 2008 were very solid in light of the challenging operating environment we faced.  We continue to be impacted by soft consumer demand for casual dining and increasing commodity and labor costs. We experienced improving trends during the quarter, including positive comparable restaurant sales at Chili’s and Maggiano’s, which we believe is a result of our focus on new menu items and the overall guest experience.  We are also benefiting from the results of our refranchising program through improving company returns and higher operating income flow-through, while also allowing the system to grow our brands quickly in the global marketplace.  Our continued focus on reducing corporate overhead costs combined with our aggressive share repurchase program also contributed to improved results during the first quarter of fiscal 2008.

 

We remain committed to our company’s strategic initiatives that are designed to build our business for the long-term including development, continuous menu innovation and initiatives to improve processes, service and overall customer satisfaction.  We are investing in the long-term health of our brands and our stakeholders with a number of initiatives that will help us to achieve consistent, long-term shareholder value over time.  Growing profitable ongoing comparable restaurant sales is the number one priority for the company and our franchisees.  Growth will be achieved through exceptional brand management, franchise support, culinary and operations innovation and, most importantly, extraordinary hospitality, at a great value.  During the first quarter of 2008, these goals were evidenced by the following operational highlights:

 

                    Revenues increased 3 percent;

                    Company-owned and franchise restaurants, or system restaurants, increased 12 percent;

                    New company restaurant growth was partially offset by selling company restaurants to franchisees resulting in net capacity growth of 2.6 percent (as measured by average-weighted sales weeks);

                    Revenues from franchisees increased 33 percent;

                    Diluted EPS from continuing operations increased 9 percent;

                    Five million common shares were repurchased by the company for approximately $140.0 million; and

                    We entered into two development agreements with new or existing franchisees with commitments to build 57 restaurants over the next several years.

 

We intend to continue the expansion of our restaurant brands by opening units in strategically desirable markets. The restaurant site selection process is critical to our long-term success, and we devote significant effort to the investigation of new locations utilizing a variety of sophisticated analytical techniques. We intend to concentrate on the development of certain identified markets to achieve penetration levels deemed desirable in order to improve competitive position, marketing potential and profitability. Expansion efforts by us and our franchisees will be focused not only on major metropolitan areas, but also on smaller market areas and non-

 

 

 

12



 

traditional locations (such as airports and food courts) that can adequately support any of our restaurant brands.  The specific rate at which we are able to open new company-owned restaurants is determined by our success in locating satisfactory sites, negotiating acceptable lease or purchase terms, construction and equipment costs, securing appropriate local governmental permits and approvals, and by our capacity to supervise construction and recruit and train management personnel.

 

In addition, we intend to pursue domestic and international franchise expansion to achieve our goal of increasing franchise ownership of our brands to at least 35% by the end of fiscal year 2008 through an active program of franchising company-owned Chili’s and On The Border restaurants and accelerated development commitments from franchisees. Future franchise development agreements are expected to remain limited to enterprises having significant restaurant or enterprise management experience and proven financial ability to develop multi-unit operations.

 

As we continue to pursue avenues to expand our business, effectively manage the bottom line and enhance the guest experience, we also remain committed to returning capital to our shareholders in the form of increased dividends or additional share repurchases.  This commitment was demonstrated by the repurchase of approximately 5.0 million shares during the first quarter of fiscal 2008.

 

The restaurant industry is a highly competitive business, which is sensitive to changes in economic conditions, trends in lifestyles and fluctuating costs. Operating margins for restaurants are susceptible to fluctuations in prices of commodities, which include among other things, beef, pork, chicken, seafood, dairy, cheese, produce, energy, wage rates and other necessities to operate a restaurant.  Additionally, the restaurant industry is characterized by a high initial capital investment, coupled with high labor costs.  Despite these risks, we remain confident in the long-term prospects of the industry and in our ability to perform effectively in an extremely competitive marketplace.

 

REVENUES

 

Revenues for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 increased to $895.1 million, 3.0% over the $869.3 million generated for the same quarter of fiscal 2007. The increase in revenue was primarily attributable to capacity growth, partially offset by the impact of the sale of 97 restaurants to franchisees and other restaurant closures since the first quarter of fiscal 2007.

 

 

 

Thirteen Week Period Ended September 26, 2007

 

 

 

Comparable Sales

 

Price
Increase

 


Mix Shift

 


Capacity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brinker International (1)

 

0.0

%

1.9

%

0.9

%

2.6

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chili’s

 

0.7

%

2.0

%

1.5

%

1.6

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On The Border

 

(5.3

)%

1.2

%

(0.9

)%

7.7

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maggiano’s

 

0.5

%

2.0

%

(1.9

)%

9.7

%

 

 

 

13



 

 

 

Thirteen Week Period Ended September 27, 2006

 

 

 

Comparable Sales

 

Price
Increase

 


Mix Shift

 


Capacity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brinker International (1)

 

(2.2

)%

3.1

%

0.5

%

10.0

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chili’s

 

(2.3

)%

3.2

%

0.1

%

9.3

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On The Border

 

(2.2

)%

2.2

%

3.5

%

4.4

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maggiano’s

 

(1.5

)%

2.9

%

(0.3

)%

12.2

%


(1)      Brinker International comparable restaurant sales exclude the impact of Macaroni Grill.

 

We increased our capacity 2.6% for the first quarter (as measured by average-weighted sales weeks) compared to the respective prior year period. The increase in capacity was due to a net increase of 26 company-owned restaurants since September 27, 2006.  Comparable restaurant sales for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 were flat compared to the same quarter of prior year primarily due to price increases at all brands, positive mix shift at Chili’s and increased traffic at Maggiano’s offset by declines in traffic at Chili’s and On The Border. Revenues from franchisees for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 increased to $14.1 million, 33.0% over the $10.6 million generated for the same quarter of fiscal 2007.

 

COSTS AND EXPENSES

 

Cost of sales, as a percent of revenues, was flat for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to the same period of fiscal 2007.  Cost of sales was negatively impacted by unfavorable commodity prices, primarily beef and cheese, and unfavorable product mix shifts, offset by favorable menu price changes and increased revenues from franchisees.

 

Restaurant expenses, as a percent of revenues, increased to 56.1% for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to 55.3% for the same period of fiscal 2007. The increase was driven by increased labor costs caused by increases in state minimum wage rates and restaurant supply costs, partially offset by increased revenues from franchisees and lower pre-opening and stock-based compensation expenses.

 

Depreciation and amortization decreased $1.7 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to the same period of fiscal 2007.  The decrease in depreciation expense was primarily related to the sale of 95 Chili’s restaurants to Pepper Dining, Inc. in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.  Additionally, the decrease was caused by the classification of assets related to the pending sale of 76 Chili’s restaurants to ERJ Dining IV, LLC as held for sale. Assets classified as held for sale are not depreciated.  These decreases were partially offset by new restaurant construction and ongoing capital expenditures related to remodels.

 

General and administrative expenses decreased $7.2 million, or 15.0%, for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to the same period of fiscal 2007. The decrease was primarily due to lower performance and stock-based compensation expenses.

 

Other gains and charges decreased $3.8 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to the same quarter of fiscal 2007.  The decrease resulted from asset impairment charges totaling $512,000 recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 compared to a $3.2 million gain recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 related to the termination of interest rate swaps on an operating lease commitment.

 

 

 

14



 

Interest expense increased $6.7 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to the same period of fiscal 2007.  The increase is primarily due to outstanding borrowings on our $400.0 million credit facility.  We entered into the credit facility in April 2007 primarily to provide additional funds for our share repurchase program. Additionally, higher average borrowings and interest rates on our existing lines of credit contributed to the increase.

 

INCOME TAXES

 

The effective income tax rate for continuing operations decreased to 30.8% from 32.5% for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to the same period of fiscal 2007.  The lower tax rate for continuing operations was primarily due to an increase in federal tax credits, primarily the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, and a decrease in stock-based compensation expense related to incentive stock option expense.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Our primary source of liquidity is cash flows generated from our restaurant operations.  We expect our ability to generate strong cash flows from operations to continue into the future.  Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations decreased to $77.9 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 from $92.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 primarily due to the timing and amount of income taxes.

 

Capital expenditures consist of purchases of land for future restaurant sites, new restaurants under construction, purchases of new and replacement restaurant furniture and equipment, and ongoing remodeling programs.  Capital expenditures were $70.9 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 compared to $86.4 million for the same period of fiscal 2007.  We estimate that our capital expenditures for fiscal 2008 will be approximately $360 to $380 million and will be funded entirely from operations and existing credit facilities.

 

In August 2007, we announced the declaration of a dividend to common stock shareholders in the amount of $0.09 per share.  Dividends of $9.5 million were paid in September 2007.

 

The Board of Directors has authorized a total of $2,060.0 million in share repurchases, which has been and will be used to return capital to shareholders and to minimize the dilutive impact of stock options and other share-based awards. In June 2007, we entered into a written trading plan in compliance with Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which provided for the purchase of up to $140.0 million of shares of our common stock.  Pursuant to our stock repurchase plan, we repurchased approximately 5.0 million shares of our common stock for $140.0 million during the first quarter of fiscal 2008, which was funded through existing credit facilities.  We terminated the latest trading plan on August 1, 2007.

 

In the future, we may consider additional share repurchases based on several factors, including our cash position, share price, operational liquidity, and planned investment and financing needs.  The repurchased common stock is reflected as a reduction of shareholders’ equity.

 

In August 2007, we extended our $50.0 million uncommitted credit facility through August 2008.  In September 2007, we increased the $50.0 million uncommitted credit facility to $100.0 million and extended the expiration to September 2008.

 

On October 24, 2007 we entered into a three-year term loan agreement for $400.0 million and terminated the one-year unsecured committed credit facility of $400.0 million set to expire in April 2008.  The term loan proceeds were used to pay off all outstanding amounts under the one-year unsecured committed credit facility.  The term loan bears interest at LIBOR plus an applicable margin, which is a function of our credit rating at such time, but is subject to a maximum of LIBOR plus 1.5%  Based on our current credit rating, we would pay interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 0.65%.

 

 

 

15



 

Excluding the impact of assets held for sale, the working capital deficit decreased to $245.2 million at September 26, 2007 from $270.7 million at June 27, 2007 primarily due to the timing of operational receipts and payments and the reclassification of certain tax exposures to long-term upon the adoption of FIN 48.

 

We believe that our various sources of capital, including availability under existing credit facilities, ability to raise additional financing, and cash flow from operating activities of continuing operations, are adequate to finance operations as well as the repayment of current debt obligations. We are not aware of any other event or trend that would potentially affect our liquidity. In the event such a trend develops, we believe that there are sufficient funds available under our credit facilities and from our internal cash generating capabilities to adequately manage the expansion of our business.

 

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” (“SFAS 157”). SFAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, describes methods used to appropriately measure fair value, and expands fair value disclosure requirements. This statement applies under other accounting pronouncements that currently require or permit fair value measurements and is effective for us beginning in fiscal 2009. In February 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities,” (“SFAS 159”). SFAS 159 provides companies with an option to report selected assets and liabilities at fair value. This statement contains financial statement presentation and disclosure requirements for assets and liabilities reported at fair value as a consequence of the election and is effective for us beginning in fiscal 2009. We are currently in the process of assessing the impact that SFAS 157 and SFAS 159 may have on our consolidated financial statements.

 

The Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) reached a consensus on EITF 06-11, “Accounting for Income Tax Benefits of Dividends on Share-Based Payment Awards” (“EITF 06-11”) in June 2007. The EITF consensus indicates that the tax benefit received on dividends associated with share-based awards that are charged to retained earnings should be recorded in additional paid-in capital and included in the pool of excess tax benefits available to absorb potential future tax deficiencies on share-based payment awards. The consensus is effective for the tax benefits of dividends declared in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2007. EITF 06-11 will be effective for us beginning in fiscal 2009. We are currently in the process of evaluating the impact that EITF 06-11 may have on our consolidated financial statements.

 

Item 3.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

There have been no material changes in our quantitative and qualitative market risks since the prior reporting period.

 

Item 4.    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Based on their evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 [the “Exchange Act”]), as of the end of the period covered by this report, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during our first quarter ended September 26, 2007, that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

 

16



 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

We wish to caution you that our business and operations are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties.  The factors listed below are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical results and from those projected in forward-looking statements contained in this report, in our other filings with the SEC, in our news releases, written or electronic communications, and verbal statements by our representatives.

 

You should be aware that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties.  These risks and uncertainties may cause our or our industry’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performances or achievements contained in or implied by these forward-looking statements.  Forward-looking statements are generally accompanied by words like “believes,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “expects,” and other similar expressions that convey uncertainty about future events or outcomes.

 

Risks Related to Our Business

 

Competition may adversely affect our operations and financial results.

 

The restaurant business is highly competitive as to price, service, restaurant location, nutritional and dietary trends and food quality, and is often affected by changes in consumer tastes, economic conditions, financial and credit markets, population and traffic patterns.  We compete within each market with locally-owned restaurants as well as national and regional restaurant chains, some of which operate more restaurants and have greater financial resources and longer operating histories than ours.  There is active competition for management personnel and hourly employees, and for attractive commercial real estate sites suitable for restaurants.

 

Our sales volumes generally decrease in winter months.

 

Our sales volumes fluctuate seasonally and are generally higher in the summer months and lower in the winter months, which may cause seasonal fluctuations in our operating results.

 

Changes in governmental regulation may adversely affect our ability to open new restaurants and our existing and future operations.

 

Each of our restaurants is subject to licensing and regulation by alcoholic beverage control, health, sanitation, safety and fire agencies in the state, county and/or municipality where the restaurant is located.  We generally have not encountered any material difficulties or failures in obtaining the required licenses and approvals that could delay or prevent the opening of a new restaurant, or impact the continuing operations of an existing restaurant.  Although we do not, at this time, anticipate any occurring in the future, we cannot assure you that we will not experience material difficulties or failures that could delay the opening of restaurants in the future or impact the continuing operations of an existing restaurant.

 

We are subject to federal and state environmental regulations, and although these have not had a material negative effect on our operations, we cannot ensure that there will not be a material negative effect in the future.  More stringent and varied requirements of local and state governmental bodies with respect to zoning, land use and environmental factors could delay or prevent development of new restaurants in particular locations.

 

We are subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act, which governs such matters as minimum wages, overtime and other working conditions, along with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, various family leave mandates and a variety of other laws enacted, or rules and regulations promulgated, by federal, state and local governmental authorities that govern these and other employment matters.  We expect increases in payroll expenses as a result of federal and state mandated increases in the minimum wage, and although such increases are not expected to be material, we cannot assure you that there will not be material increases in the future.  In addition, our vendors may be affected by higher minimum wage standards, which may increase the price of goods and services they supply to us.

 

 

 

17



 

 

Inflation may increase our operating expenses.

 

We have not experienced a significant overall impact from inflation.  Inflation can cause increased food, labor and benefits costs and can increase our operating expenses.  As operating expenses increase, we, to the extent permitted by competition, recover increased costs by increasing menu prices, or by reviewing, then implementing, alternative products or processes, or by implementing other cost reduction procedures.  We cannot ensure, however, that we will be able to continue to recover increases in operating expenses due to inflation in this manner.

 

Our profitability may be adversely affected by increases in energy costs.

 

Our success depends in part on our ability to absorb increases in utility costs.  Various regions of the United States in which we operate multiple restaurants have experienced significant increases in utility prices.  If these increases continue to occur, it would have an adverse effect on our profitability.

 

Successful mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and other strategic transactions are important to our future growth and profitability.

 

We evaluate potential mergers, acquisitions, franchisees of new and existing restaurants, joint venture investments, and divestitures as part of our strategic planning initiative.  These transactions involve various inherent risks, including accurately assessing:

 

                  the value, future growth potential, strengths, weaknesses, contingent and other liabilities and potential profitability of acquisition candidates;

 

                  our ability to achieve projected economic and operating synergies;

 

                  unanticipated changes in business and economic conditions affecting an acquired business;

 

                  the ability to obtain adequate funding and financing for the transaction; and

 

                  our ability to complete divestitures on acceptable terms and at or near the prices estimated as attainable by us.

 

If we are unable to meet our strategic plans, our profitability in the future may be adversely affected.

 

Our ability to meet our strategic plans is dependent upon, among other things, the ability to:

 

                  identify by us and our franchisees available, suitable and economically viable locations for new restaurants,

 

                  identify adequate sources of capital to fund and finance strategic initiatives, including new restaurant development,

 

                  obtain all required governmental permits (including zoning approvals and liquor licenses) on a timely basis,

 

                  hire all necessary contractors and subcontractors, and

 

                  meet construction schedules.

 

 

18



 

The costs related to restaurant and brand development include purchases and leases of land, buildings and equipment and facility and equipment maintenance, repair and replacement.  The labor and materials costs involved vary geographically and are subject to general price increases.  As a result, future capital expenditure costs of restaurant development may increase, reducing profitability.  We cannot assure you that we will be able to expand our capacity in accordance with our growth objectives or that the new restaurants and brands opened or acquired will be profitable.

 

Unfavorable publicity relating to one or more of our restaurants in a particular brand may taint public perception of the brand.

 

Multi-unit restaurant businesses can be adversely affected by publicity resulting from poor food quality, illness or health concerns or operating issues stemming from one or a limited number of restaurants.  In particular, since we depend heavily on the Chili’s brand for a majority of our revenues, unfavorable publicity relating to one or more Chili’s restaurants could have a material adverse effect on the Chili’s brand, and consequently on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Identification of material weakness in internal control may adversely affect our financial results.

 

We are subject to the ongoing internal control provisions of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.  Those provisions provide for the identification of material weaknesses in internal control.  If such a material weakness is identified, it could indicate a lack of adequate controls to generate accurate financial statements.  We routinely assess our internal controls, but we cannot assure you that we will be able to timely remediate any material weaknesses that may be identified in future periods, or maintain all of the controls necessary for continued compliance.  Likewise, we cannot assure you that we will be able to retain sufficient skilled finance and accounting personnel, especially in light of the increased demand for such personnel among publicly traded companies.

 

Other risk factors may adversely affect our financial performance.

 

Other risk factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements by affecting, among many things, pricing, consumer spending and consumer confidence, include, without limitation, changes in economic conditions and financial and credit markets, credit availability, increased fuel costs and availability for our employees, customers and suppliers, health epidemics or pandemics or the prospects of these events (such as reports on avian flu), consumer perceptions of food safety, changes in consumer tastes and behaviors, governmental monetary policies, changes in demographic trends, availability of employees, terrorist acts, energy shortages and rolling blackouts, and weather (including, major hurricanes and regional snow storms) and other acts of God.

 

 

19



 

PART II.    OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

Information regarding legal proceedings is incorporated by reference from Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements set forth in Part I of this report.

Item 1A.     RISK FACTORS

There has been no material change in the risk factors set forth in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 27, 2007.

 

Item 2.    UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

Shares repurchased during the first quarter of fiscal 2008 are as follows (in thousands, except share and per share amounts):

 

 

 

Total Number

of Shares
Purchased (a)

 

Average
Price
Paid per
 Share

 

Total Number
of Shares Purchased as
Part of
Publicly Announced Program

 

Approximate Dollar Value that May Yet
be Purchased Under the Program

 

June 28, 2007 through August 1, 2007

 

4,445,500

 

$

28.04

 

4,445,500

 

$

175,292

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

August 2, 2007 through August 29, 2007

 

571,614

 

$

27.33

 

558,131

 

$

160,052

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

August 30, 2007 through
September 26, 2007

 

3,275

 

$

28.54

 

 

$

160,052

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,020,389

 

$

27.96

 

5,003,631

 

 

 

 


(a)          These amounts include shares purchased as part of the publicly announced programs described in part I of this report and shares owned and tendered by employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations on the vesting of restricted share awards.  Unless otherwise indicated, shares owned and tendered by employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations were purchased at the closing price of the Company’s shares on the date of vesting.  During the first quarter of fiscal 2008, 16,758 shares were tendered by employees at an average price of $29.19.

 

Item 6.    EXHIBITS

 

10(a)                            $100 million uncommitted line of credit, dated September 7, 2007, by and between the registrant and Bank of America N.A.

 

31(a)                            Certification by Douglas H. Brooks, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Registrant, pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a - 14(a) or 17 CFR 240.15d - 14(a).

 

31(b)                           Certification by Charles M. Sonsteby, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Registrant, pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a - 14(a) or 17 CFR 240.15d - 14(a).

 

32(a)                            Certification by Douglas H. Brooks, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Registrant, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

32(b)                           Certification by Charles M. Sonsteby, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Registrant, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

20



 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, we have duly caused this report to be signed on our behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

 

 

 

 

Date:  November 5, 2007

By:

 /s/ Douglas H. Brooks

 

Douglas H. Brooks,

 

Chairman of the Board,

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:  November 5, 2007

By:

 /s/ Charles M. Sonsteby

 

Charles M. Sonsteby,

 

Executive Vice President and

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

(Principal Financial Officer)

 

 

 

21