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Jan 22, 201914 min read

Financial Overview - January 2019





Taco Bueno Completes Sale to Sun Holdings, Inc.

January 16, 2019

Emerges from Court-Supervised Financial Restructuring as Stronger and More Competitive Company Restaurants Open, Continuing to Provide Fresh, Authentic Tex-Mex Experience and Unmatched Customer Service Dallas, TX  (RestaurantNews.com)  Taco Bueno Restaurants LP (“Taco Bueno”, or “the Company”) today announced that it has completed its sale to Taco Supremo, LLC, an affiliate of Sun Holdings, Inc. (“Sun Holdings”), and has successfully emerged from its court-supervised financial restructuring. Through the restructuring process, Taco Bueno has substantially improved its financial position and established a sustainable capital structure. Sun Holdings is a multi-concept franchisee based in Dallas, Texas, with more than 800 locations across eight states that also includes Burger King, Popeyes, Arby’s, Golden Corral, Cici’s Pizza, Krispy Kreme, GNC and T-Mobile. With more than 20 years of operating experience and expertise in quick service restaurants, Sun Holdings intends to invest in remodeling Taco Bueno locations and other brand initiatives to enhance the customer experience. “Today marks a new beginning for Taco Bueno,” said Omar Janjua, Chief Executive Officer, Taco Bueno. “With our sale to Sun Holdings and our financial restructuring completed, we are well positioned for long-term financial health as we grow our food offerings and brand with the added expertise and leadership of Sun Holdings. I’d like to thank our dedicated employees for their commitment to Taco Bueno through this process, and we look forward to continuing to serve freshly prepared meals, in real kitchens, using real ingredients and providing unmatched customer service to guests.” “We have a proven track record of successfully growing brands in this industry, and we are excited about leveraging our experience to reinvigorate Taco Bueno with new food offerings and streamlined marketing initiatives to strengthen its competitive position in the quick-service restaurant sector,” said Guillermo Perales, Chief Executive Officer and founder of Sun Holdings. “We look forward to working closely with the Taco Bueno team to build on the Company’s 50-year history and execute swiftly on our key priorities of food quality and enhanced value for customers, employees and the brand.” Taco Bueno’s plan of reorganization was confirmed by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas on December 31, 2018. Vinson & Elkins LLP is serving as the Company’s legal advisor, Houlihan Lokey is serving as its financial advisor, Berkeley Research Group is serving as its restructuring advisor, and JLL is serving as its real estate advisor. About Taco Bueno Restaurants LP Taco Bueno is committed to providing an authentic, better-tasting Tex-Mex experience through made-fresh-daily preparations, hand-selected ingredients, and genuine, friendly hospitality. Founded in 1967 in Abilene, TX, Taco Bueno is a privately held company that operates more than 145 restaurants throughout the American South and Southwest – including Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas. To learn more about Taco Bueno, please visit www.TacoBueno.com or www.facebook.com/BuenoHeadquarters. About Sun Holdings Sun Holdings, Inc. is a national holdings group headquartered in Dallas, Texas, that owns and operates a portfolio of more than 800 locations in eight states. Sun Holdings has been ranked the 4th largest franchisee in the U.S. by Mega 99 2018 Rankings, and the Largest Hispanic Franchisee in the U.S. The organization operates 296 Burger King, 145 Popeyes, 87 Arby’s, 21 Golden Corral, 32 Cici’s Pizza, 18 Krispy Kreme, 135 T-Mobile, and 84 GNC locations, as well as 3 restaurants in various airports and approximately 160 real estate units. For more information, please visit http://www.sunholdings.net. Media Contacts: Ed Trissel / Jed Repko / Tim Ragones Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher 212-355-4449 Kim Miller 305-631-2283



Del Taco Restaurants, Inc. Announces Preliminary Unaudited Fiscal Fourth Quarter 2018 Sales Results and Updated Fiscal Year 2018 Guidance

January, 14 2019

System-wide comparable restaurant sales grew 1.9%, marking the 21st consecutive quarter of gains

Del Taco Restaurants, Inc., (NASDAQ: TACO), the second largest Mexican-American quick service restaurant chain by units in the United States, today announced preliminary unaudited fiscal fourth quarter 2018 sales results for the period ending January 1, 2019 ahead of management’s presentation and webcast at the ICR Conference at 10:00 am ET this morning. Del Taco also provided updated guidance for fiscal year 2018 as well as initial guidance for fiscal year 2019. Fiscal Fourth Quarter 2018 Highlights

  1. System-wide comparable restaurant sales grew 1.9%, marking the 21st consecutive quarter of gains;

  2. Company-operated comparable restaurant sales grew 1.0%, marking the 26th consecutive quarter of gains. Company-operated comparable restaurant sales growth was comprised of average check growth of 4.9%, including over 1% of menu mix growth, partially offset by a transaction decrease of 3.9%;

  3. Franchised comparable restaurant sales grew 3.2%;

  4. Total revenue of approximately $157.1 million (including $4.1 million of franchise advertising contributions and $0.3 million of other franchise revenue required as part of the revenue recognition rules adopted in the fiscal first quarter of 2018 whereby the offsetting impact is an increase to expenses such that there is no impact on operating income and net income), representing 7.2% growth from the fiscal fourth quarter of 2017; and

  5. Company restaurant sales of approximately $146.7 million, representing 4.4% growth from the fiscal fourth quarter of 2017. The expected sales results are preliminary and unaudited, have not been reviewed by our independent registered public accountants, and remain subject to the completion of normal quarter-end accounting procedures and adjustments and are subject to change. The Company expects to release financial and operating results for its fiscal fourth quarter and fiscal year ended January 1, 2019 during March 2019. John D. Cappasola, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of Del Taco, commented, “Preliminary comparable restaurant sales performance during the fourth quarter reflected sequential improvement from the third quarter despite continued competitive discounting, and again included stronger results from our franchisees which supports brand portability due to their broad geographic footprint. Our comprehensive plan in 2019 includes pricing, menu mix and transaction strategies designed to achieve positive comparable restaurant sales in 2019, and to protect our strong restaurant margins. This plan is buoyed by key transaction initiatives designed to enhance our core value program, deliver exciting new products and expand our digital presence through our new App and launch of multiple third party delivery providers.” Cappasola continued, “This morning, we also provided initial guidance for 2019 and announced our intention to surgically evolve our restaurant portfolio to stimulate growth in new restaurants and existing restaurant AUV’s. This effort begins in the LA area by acquiring three high volume franchise restaurants and refranchising thirteen lower volume company restaurants during the first quarter of 2019. Further planned actions include refranchising non-core Western markets to new or existing franchisees with proven operational and development capabilities which would shift our approximately 55% current company ownership to approximately 45% by the summer of 2020. Our portfolio optimization strategy positions the brand for accelerated franchise growth and focuses company operations on our core Western markets and strategic seed markets to support emerging market growth.”



The ONE Group Announces Preliminary Q4 and Full Year 2018 Sales Results

January, 11 2019

Domestic Same Store Sales for Fourth Quarter Increase 15.0%

The ONE Group Hospitality, Inc. (NASDAQ: STKS) yesterday announced preliminary sales for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2018. The Company also announced its participation at the 21st Annual ICR Conference next week. Preliminary sales highlights for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2018 are as follows:

  1. Total GAAP revenues are expected to be approximately $25 million, an approximate 16% increase from $21.5 million for the same quarter last year; and,

  2. Domestic comparable sales* at owned and managed STK restaurants rose 15.0% from the prior year period, consisting of a 14.9% increase in domestic owned restaurants and a 15.6% increase in domestic managed restaurants.Preliminary sales highlights for the full year ended December 31, 2018 are as follows:

  3. Total GAAP revenues are expected to be approximately $85 million, an approximate 7% increase from $79.7 million for 2017. On November 12, 2018, the Company had reiterated previous guidance of 2018 revenues between $80 million and $85 million;

  4. Domestic comparable sales* at owned and managed STK restaurants rose 9.4%, consisting of a 9.7% increase in domestic owned restaurants and an 8.8% increase in domestic managed restaurants, compared to 2017. On November 12, 2018 the Company had guided to domestic comparable store sales growth of about 7%, which was up from 3% to 4% originally; and,

  5. US STK brand restaurant sales rose to a record $101 million.*Comparable sales or same store sales (“SSS”) represents total US food and beverage sales at owned and managed units opened for at least a full 18-month period. This metric includes total revenue from our owned and managed STK locations. Revenues from locations where we do not directly control the event sales force (The W Hotel, Westwood, CA and our locations in Europe) are excluded from this metric. Emanuel “Manny” Hilario, President and CEO of The ONE Group stated, "Preliminary revenues and comparable sales growth for 2018 reflect our brand strength, high level of execution, focused marketing, and robust event business during the recent holiday season. We are pleased that the important new initiatives launched in 2018 such as the introduction of our national happy hour program and focus on promoting our holiday programs real time on social media have led to a healthy and sustainable improvement in our performance.” Mr. Hilario added, “Incorporating vibe dining into every aspect of our restaurant experience is what truly sets us apart and we are grateful to all of our worldwide team members for making the STK brand so highly differentiated.” Mr. Hilario concluded, “Looking ahead, we continue to see strong interest in STK and in our hospitality program globally, and our worldwide pipeline for 2019 reflects these opportunities for asset-light business development.” Preliminary results remain subject to the completion of normal quarter and year-end accounting procedures and adjustments and are subject to change. The Company expects to release financial and operating results for its fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2018 in March 2019. 21st Annual ICR Conference Participation Mr. Hilario and Linda Siluk, Interim Chief Financial Officer, will present at the 21st Annual ICR Conference at the Grande Lakes Hotel & Resort in Orlando, FL at 1:30 PM Eastern Time on January 15, 2019. About The ONE Group The ONE Group (NASDAQ: STKS) is a global hospitality company that develops and operates upscale, high-energy restaurants and lounges and provides hospitality management services for hotels, casinos and other high-end venues nationally and internationally. The ONE Group’s primary restaurant brand is STK, a modern twist on the American steakhouse concept with locations in major metropolitan cities throughout the U.S., Europe, Mexico, and the Middle East. ONE Hospitality, The ONE Group’s food and beverage hospitality services business, provides the development, management and operations for premier restaurants and turn-key food and beverage services in high-end hotels and casinos.



Good Times Restaurants Reports Fiscal 2019 Q1 Same Store Sales


Bad Daddy’s Same Store Sales Increase 0.2%


January 09, 2019 07:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Good Times Restaurants Inc. (Nasdaq: GTIM), operator of Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar, a full-service, upscale burger bar concept and Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard, a regional quick-service restaurant chain focused on fresh, high-quality, all-natural products, today announced that same store sales at its Bad Daddy’s concept increased 0.2% during the quarter over the prior year’s increase of 0.7%, which includes the loss of approximately ten store days due to the snow storm in North Carolina. Same store sales for its Good Times’ brand decreased 5.2% in its fiscal first quarter ended December 25, 2018 over the prior year’s increase of 5.9%. Boyd Hoback, President & CEO, said, “We continue to see same store sales growth in our Bad Daddy’s brand, even with the loss of sales due to harsher weather this year. Good Times was significantly impacted by tougher weather in Colorado versus last year and we attribute most, if not all, of the same store sales decline this year to that. Last year had unusually warmer weather with lower precipitation in Colorado in both our first and second fiscal quarters so we anticipate a tough comparison again in our second quarter at Good Times. However, the calendar shift for Christmas this year has benefited Bad Daddy’s with some acceleration in our sales trends so far in our third fiscal period. Subsequent to the end of the quarter we opened our thirty fifth Bad Daddy’s restaurant in Raleigh, North Carolina, which is our fourth restaurant in that market.” About Good Times Restaurants Inc.: Good Times Restaurants Inc. (GTIM) owns, operates, franchises and licenses 35 Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar restaurants through its wholly-owned subsidiaries. Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar is a full-service, upscale, “small box” restaurant concept featuring a chef-driven menu of gourmet signature burgers, chopped salads, appetizers and sandwiches with a full bar and a focus on a selection of craft microbrew beers in a high-energy atmosphere that appeals to a broad consumer base. Additionally, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Good Times Restaurants Inc. operates and franchises a regional quick-service restaurant chain consisting of 35 Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard restaurants, located primarily in Colorado. Good Times Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws. The words “intend,” “may,” “believe,” “will,” “should,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “seek” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, which may cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks include such factors as the uncertain nature of current restaurant development plans and the ability to implement those plans and integrate new restaurants, delays in developing and opening new restaurants because of weather, local permitting or other reasons, increased competition, cost increases or shortages in raw food products, and other matters discussed under the “Risk Factors” section of Good Times’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 25, 2018 filed with the SEC. Although Good Times may from time to time voluntarily update its forward-looking statements, it disclaims any commitment to do so except as required by securities laws.


ContactsGood Times RestaurantsInvestor Relations Contacts: Boyd E. Hoback, President and CEO (303) 384-1411 Ryan Zink, CFO (303) 384-1432 Christi Pennington (303) 384-1440


Gigi’s Cupcakes files for bankruptcy

Updated Jan 9; Posted Jan 9



Gigi’s Cupcakes has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

The cupcake chain filed for reorganization on Jan. 4 in Texas Northern Bankruptcy Court with liabilities ranging from $1 million to $10 million,according to reports.

Gigi’s is an affiliate of FundCorp, a Texas-based private equity group. Its filing asks that the bankruptcy be combined with another FundCorp affiliate, Sovrano, operators of Mr. Gatti’s Pizza, which has also filed for bankruptcy protection. The filing noted the chain had closed “several” locations in recent months but continued to operate “under-performing” sites.

Gigi’s has Alabama locations in Huntsville, Hoover, Tuscaloosa, Opelika and Montgomery.

Jennifer Cooper, operator of the Gigi’s in Opelika and Montgomery said her stores operations are continuing without disruption.

FundCorp acquired Gigi’s in 2016, moving its corporate offices from Nashville to Fort Worth. The company was founded in 2008 by Gina “Gigi” Butler of Nashville and, at one time, had more than 100 locations across the U.S.




J.H. Whitney Capital Partners Acquires Firebirds International



Jan 08, 2019, 08:35 ET


NEW CANAAN, Conn., Jan. 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- J.H. Whitney Capital Partners, LLC is pleased to announce that it has acquired a majority interest in Firebirds International, LLC ("Firebirds Wood Fired Grill" or the "Company") from Angelo, Gordon & Co., L.P. ("Angelo Gordon"). California-based NorthPoint Advisors served as financial advisor to Firebirds. Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal advisor to J.H. Whitney. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Charlotte, N.C.-based Firebirds Wood Fired Grill is a contemporary-polished casual restaurant with 48 locations throughout the U.S. and is known for its authentic wood fired entrees infused with bold flavors, fresh herbs and spices. This year, Firebirds was named one of America's Top 50 Emerging Restaurant Chains by FSR Magazine and one of Nation's Restaurant News' "Next Gen Top 20." Firebirds has a history of outperforming industry SSS and AUV benchmarks with proven success across different markets and plans to accelerate its growth across the continental United States with the support of J.H. Whitney. Firebirds' CEO Mark Eason, a highly regarded restaurant industry veteran with nearly 40 years of experience, will continue in his current role. "Firebirds' guest-first culture and various industry recognitions are reflective of our continuous investment in our team members and customers. J.H. Whitney's willingness to invest in the long-term success of our brand and their alignment with our core values make them the ideal partner to help us execute our growth strategy," said Eason. "We are very pleased to have J.H. Whitney's experience, resources and team of professionals supporting Firebirds." "Firebirds is a unique brand that has a distinguished and proven track record of profitability and growth and is run by a management team that is one of the most dynamic in the industry," said Paul R. Vigano, J.H. Whitney Senior Managing Director, about the acquisition. "We are excited to partner with Mark and the Company's talented management team to help accelerate the Company's growth." Founded in 2000, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill offers guests a unique dining experience featuring an exposed kitchen with its signature wood-burning grill, and its award-winning FIREBAR®. The restaurant is known for its welcoming décor and expertly seasoned wood-grilled steaks, freshly grilled seafood, gourmet burgers and oversized salads, as well as an extensive menu of seasonal cocktails and fine wine. For more information about Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, visit              https://www.firebirdsinternational.com. About J.H. Whitney                                                                                                                            J.H. Whitney, established in 1946 by industrialist and philanthropist, John Hay "Jock" Whitney, was one of the first U.S. private equity firms and is often credited with pioneering the development of the private equity industry. Today, J.H. Whitney remains privately owned by its investing professionals and its main activity is to provide private equity capital to small and middle market companies with strong growth prospects in a number of industries including consumer, healthcare, and specialty manufacturing. Visit: http://www.whitney.com. About Firebirds Wood Fired Grill Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, a contemporary-polished casual restaurant, is an energetic twist on the traditional grill featuring a boldly flavored, classic American menu in an inviting, fire-centric atmosphere. Signature menu items include hand-cut, aged steaks and fresh seafood hand-fileted in-house and seared over locally sourced hickory, oak or pecan wood in Firebirds' scratch kitchen and exposed wood-fired grill. The open, stylish, enticing décor incorporates wood-fired themes and entertaining spaces, such as the outdoor patio with seasonal comforts and the award-winning FIREBAR®. Popular specialties include Wine Down Mondays, happy hour, artisan cocktails, craft beer, bourbon, after dinner drinks and Firebirds' private label wine. In keeping with its mission, "To Serve, Enrich and Exceed," Firebirds supports ever-growing sustainability efforts throughout its restaurants and partners with Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation, with more than $1.4 million raised for childhood cancer research through the sale of fresh-squeezed lemonade. Visit firebirdsrestaurants.com to become a member of Firebirds' Inner Circle, make an OpenTable reservation or order ToGo online. Contact:  Don Rountree, Rountree Group 207048@email4pr.com 770.645.4545


Ark Restaurants Announces Financial Results for the Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year Ended 2018

December, 20 2018

Total revenues for the three-month period ended September 29, 2018 were $40,562,000 versus $39,467,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2017.

Ark Restaurants Corp. (NASDAQ:ARKR) today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended September 29, 2018. Total revenues for the three-month period ended September 29, 2018 were $40,562,000 versus $39,467,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2017. Total revenues for the year ended September 29, 2018 were $159,990,000 versus $153,877,000 for the year ended September 30, 2017. The year ended September 29, 2018 includes revenues of $10,141,000 related to Sequoia DC versus $4,409,000 for the year ended September 30, 2017. Sequoia DC was closed for renovation for the entire second quarter and third quarters of 2017. The year ended September 30, 2017 includes revenues of $3,867,000 related to three properties that were closed prior to fiscal 2018. Company-wide same store sales increased 1.7% for the three-month period ended September 29, 2018 compared to the same three month period last year. The Company’s EBITDA from restaurant operations, adjusted for non-controlling interests and non-cash stock option expense, for the three-month period ended September 29, 2018 was $2,120,000 versus $2,880,000 during the same three-month period last year. The Company’s EBITDA from restaurant operations, adjusted for non-controlling interests and non-cash stock option expense, for the year ended September 29, 2018 was $9,735,000 versus $9,194,000 last year. EBITDA from restaurant operations for the year ended September 30, 2017 excludes a gain of $1,637,000 recognized in connection with the sale of real estate. Net income for the three-month period ended September 29, 2018 was $1,007,000 or $0.29 per basic share, $0.28 per diluted share, compared to $1,311,000 or $0.38 per basic, $0.37 per diluted share, for the same three-month period last year. Net income for the year ended September 29, 2018 was $4,655,000 or $1.35 per basic, $1.31 per diluted share, compared to $4,039,000, or $1.18 per basic share, $1.14 per diluted share, last year.


Peet's Coffee to Acquire Majority Stake in Revive Kombucha

December, 20 2018

Peet's Coffee today announced that it has acquired a majority stake in Revive Kombucha, a craft brewery based in Petaluma, California. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Peet's Coffee  today announced that it has acquired a majority stake in Revive Kombucha, a craft brewery based in Petaluma, California. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Revive offers an array of naturally fermented, organic, non-GMO, Fair Trade certified, ethically sourced and raw bottled and on tap Kombucha. It maintains a strong presence in the United States, with a rapid national growth of over 168% percent versus a year ago (52 weeks IRI MULO, 4 November 2018). The latest financing by Peet's will continue to scale the Revive brand, grow its brewery operations and broaden its distribution via the coffee company's network, while assuring absolute product quality and superior taste. "Building an evergreen ecosystem for the Revive brand has always been part of our mission," said Sean J. Lovett, Founder and CEO of Revive Kombucha. "We are excited to further solidify our long-term partnership with Peet's to fulfill our greater purpose of bringing our super tasty and good-for-you beverages to a larger audience." Peet's expects to expand the Revive market reach in on-premise, grocery and Peet's coffeebar locations. The inherent match of delivering Revive across consumer facing Peet's channels will strengthen and accelerate the growth of its pioneering chilled beverage portfolio. "Kombucha is a natural adjacency to ready-to-drink coffee and our consumers tend to love both," said Eric Lauterbach, President of the Consumer Division at Peet's Coffee. "Adapting our growth strategy to extend access and trial of superior beverage choices across channels in new and convenient locations is key. And knowing the ongoing consumer shift to better for you and functional beverages, our latest long-term investment in Revive reflects our belief in the future growth of the brand." Sean J. Lovett and Rebekah Lovett, co-founder, will maintain their equity and leadership positions at the company, while also maintaining the brand's innovative approach to batch brewing and natural fermentation methods.

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