FORM 10-Q

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
(Mark One)

x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1934
   
 
For the quarterly period ended September 23, 2007.

o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES ACT of 1934
   
 
For the transition period from ____________ to ____________.

Commission File Number 0-3189

NATHAN'S FAMOUS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
11-3166443
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)

1400 Old Country Road, Westbury, New York 11590
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip code)

(516) 338-8500
(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 o    Accelerated Filer o    Non-accelerated Filer x

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

At November 5, 2007, an aggregate of 6,091,683 shares of the registrant's common stock, par value of $.01, were outstanding.
 


NATHAN'S FAMOUS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX

     
Page
     
Number
       
PART I.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
   
       
Item 1.
Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
 
3
       
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets - September 23, 2007 and
   
 
March 25, 2007
 
3
       
 
Consolidated Statements of Earnings - Thirteen Weeks
   
 
Ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006
 
4
       
 
Consolidated Statements of Earnings - Twenty-six Weeks
   
 
Ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006
 
5
       
 
Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity -
   
 
Twenty-six Weeks Ended September 23, 2007
 
6
       
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -Twenty-six Weeks
   
 
Ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006
 
7
       
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
8
       
Item 2.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
   
 
and Results of Operations
 
15
       
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
21
       
Item 4T.
Controls and Procedures
 
21
       
PART II.
OTHER INFORMATION
   
       
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
 
23
       
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
 
23
       
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
25
       
Item 4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
 
25
       
Item 5.
Other Information   26
       
Item 6.
Exhibits
 
26
       
SIGNATURES
 
27
       
Exhibit Index
 
28

-2-


PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Consolidated Financial Statements

Nathan’s Famous, Inc. and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

 
September 23, 2007
 
March 25, 2007
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
(Note D)
 
ASSETS
         
CURRENT ASSETS
         
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
8,199
 
$
6,278
 
Marketable securities
   
23,537
   
22,785
 
Accounts receivable, net
   
3,747
   
3,261
 
Note receivable
   
536
   
-
 
Inventories
   
1,171
   
790
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
642
   
994
 
Deferred income taxes
   
1,240
   
1,174
 
Current assets held for sale
   
-
   
1,539
 
Total current assets
   
39,072
   
36,821
 
               
Note receivable
   
1,614
   
-
 
Property and equipment, net
   
4,439
   
4,222
 
Goodwill
   
95
   
95
 
Intangible assets, net
   
1,764
   
1,781
 
Deferred income taxes
   
1,004
   
990
 
Other assets, net
   
294
   
178
 
Non-current assets held for sale
   
-
   
2,488
 
               
   
$
48,282
 
$
46,575
 
               
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
             
               
CURRENT LIABILITIES
             
Accounts payable
 
$
2,145
 
$
2,298
 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
   
4,107
   
4,767
 
Deferred franchise fees
   
348
   
375
 
Current liabilities held for sale
   
-
   
2,006
 
Total current liabilities
   
6,600
   
9,446
 
               
Other liabilities
   
1,710
   
873
 
Non-current liabilities held for sale
   
-
   
377
 
               
Total liabilities
   
8,310
   
10,696
 
               
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note I)
             
               
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
             
Common stock, $.01 par value; 30,000,000 shares authorized;
             
8,091,683 and 7,909,183 shares issued; and 6,091,683 and 6,018,083
             
shares outstanding at September 23, 2007 and March 25, 2007, respectively
   
81
   
79
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
46,940
   
45,792
 
Deferred compensation
   
( 100
)
 
( 136
)
Retained earnings / (accumulated deficit)
   
2,117
   
(2,654
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
   
20
   
( 44
)
     
49,058
   
43,037
 
Treasury stock, at cost, 2,000,000 shares at September 23, 2007 and 1,891,100 shares at March 25, 2007.
   
(9,086
)
 
(7,158
)
Total stockholders’ equity
   
39,972
   
35,879
 
               
   
$
48,282
 
$
46,575
 
               
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
 
-3-


Nathan’s Famous, Inc. and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
Thirteen weeks ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
           
   
September 23, 2007
 
September 24, 2006
 
REVENUES
         
Sales
 
$
11,257
 
$
10,229
 
Franchise fees and royalties
   
1,421
   
1,219
 
License royalties
   
1,033
   
907
 
Interest income
   
289
   
147
 
Other income
   
62
   
32
 
Total revenues
   
14,062
   
12,534
 
               
COSTS AND EXPENSES
             
Cost of sales
   
7,983
   
6,904
 
Restaurant operating expenses
   
913
   
859
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
192
   
185
 
Amortization of intangible assets
   
9
   
9
 
General and administrative expenses
   
2,145
   
2,144
 
Total costs and expenses
   
11,242
   
10,101
 
               
Income from continuing operations before provision
             
for income taxes
   
2,820
   
2,433
 
Provision for income taxes
   
1,046
   
956
 
Income from continuing operations
   
1,774
   
1,477
 
               
Income from discontinued operations including gain on disposal of discontinued operations of $400 in 2006
   
-
   
627
 
Provision for income taxes
   
-
   
260
 
Income from discontinued operations
   
-
   
367
 
             
Net income
 
$
1,774
 
$
1,844
 
               
PER SHARE INFORMATION
             
Basic income per share:
             
Income from continuing operations
 
$
.29
 
$
.26
 
Income from discontinued operations
   
. -
   
.06
 
Net income
 
$
.29
 
$
.32
 
               
Diluted income per share:
             
Income from continuing operations
 
$
.27
 
$
.24
 
Income from discontinued operations
   
. -
   
.06
 
Net income
 
$
.27
 
$
.30
 
               
Weighted average shares used in computing income
             
per share
             
Basic
   
6,119,000
   
5,773,000
 
Diluted
   
6,562,000
   
6,227,000
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

-4-

 
Nathan’s Famous, Inc. and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
Twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
           
   
September 23, 2007
 
September 24, 2006
 
REVENUES
         
Sales
 
$
21,078
 
$
19,391
 
Franchise fees and royalties
   
2,691
   
2,339
 
License royalties
   
2,460
   
2,083
 
Interest income
   
524
   
277
 
Other income
   
88
   
42
 
Total revenues
   
26,841
   
24,132
 
               
COSTS AND EXPENSES
             
Cost of sales
   
15,411
   
13,523
 
Restaurant operating expenses
   
1,751
   
1,703
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
374
   
370
 
Amortization of intangible assets
   
17
   
17
 
General and administrative expenses
   
4,223
   
4,115
 
Total costs and expenses
   
21,776
   
19,728
 
               
Income from continuing operations before provision
             
for income taxes
   
5,065
   
4,404
 
Provision for income taxes
   
1,867
   
1,706
 
Income from continuing operations
   
3,198
   
2,698
 
               
Income from discontinued operations, including gains on disposal of discontinued operations of $2,489 in 2007 and $400 in 2006
   
2,711
   
925
 
Provision for income taxes
   
983
   
383
 
Income from discontinued operations
   
1,728
   
542
 
             
Net income
 
$
4,926
 
$
3,240
 
               
PER SHARE INFORMATION
             
Basic income per share:
             
Income from continuing operations
 
$
.53
 
$
.47
 
Income from discontinued operations
   
.28
   
.09
 
Net income
 
$
.81
 
$
.56
 
               
Diluted income per share:
             
Income from continuing operations
 
$
.49
 
$
.43
 
Income from discontinued operations
   
.26
   
.09
 
Net income
 
$
.75
 
$
.52
 
               
Weighted average shares used in computing income
             
per share
             
Basic
   
6,069,000
   
5,753,000
 
Diluted
   
6,530,000
   
6,266,000
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
 
-5-


Nathan’s Famous, Inc. and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007
(in thousands, except share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
 
Common
Shares
 
Common
Stock
 

Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Deferred
Compensation
 
Retained
Earnings /
(Accumulated
Deficit)
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 
Treasury Stock,
at Cost
 
Total
Stockholders’
Equity
 
               
Shares
 
Amount
   
Balance, March 25, 2007
   
7,909,183
 
$
79
 
$
45,792
 
$
(136
)
$
(2,654
)
$
(44
)
 
1,891,100
 
$
(7,158
)
$
35,879
 
                                                         
Shares issued in connection with the exercise of employee stock options and warrant
   
182,500
   
2
   
589
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
591
 
                                                         
Income tax benefit on stock option and warrant exercises
   
-
   
-
   
415
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
415
 
                                                         
Share-based compensation
   
-
   
-
   
144
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
144
 
                                                         
Repurchase of common stock
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
108,900
   
(1,928
)
 
(1,928
)
                                                         
Amortization of deferred compensation relating to restricted stock
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
36
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
36
 
                                                         
Unrealized gains on marketable securities, net of deferred income tax of $44
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
64
   
-
   
-
   
64
 
                                                         
Net income
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
4,926
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
4,926
 
                                                         
Cumulative effect of the adoption of FIN No. 48 as of March 26, 2007
(Note C)
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(155
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
   
(155
)
                                                       
Balance, September 23, 2007
   
8,091,683
 
$
81
 
$
46,940
 
$
(100
)
$
2,117
 
$
20
   
2,000,000
 
$
(9,086
)
$
39,972
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
 
-6-

 
Nathan’s Famous, Inc. and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
 
   
September 23,
2007
 
September 24,
2006
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
         
Net income
 
$
4,926
 
$
3,240
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
             
provided by operating activities
             
Depreciation and amortization
   
377
   
395
 
Amortization of intangible assets
   
61
   
131
 
Amortization of bond premium
   
145
   
127
 
Amortization of deferred compensation
   
36
   
36
 
Share-based compensation expense
   
144
   
122
 
Provision for doubtful accounts
   
-
   
5
 
Gain on sale of subsidiary and leasehold interest
   
(2,489
)
 
(414
)
Deferred income taxes
   
(59
)
 
105
 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
             
Accounts receivable, net
   
(276
)
 
(673
)
Inventories
   
(381
)
 
189
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
259
   
664
 
Other assets
   
(116
)
 
9
 
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities
   
(1,419
)
 
48
 
Deferred franchise fees
   
(27
)
 
272
 
Other liabilities
   
700
   
(53
)
               
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
1,881
   
4,203
 
               
Cash flows from investing activities:
             
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary and leasehold interest, net of cash sold
   
1,691
   
400
 
Purchase of available-for-sale securities
   
(1,089
)
 
(4,467
)
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities
   
300
   
-
 
Purchase of intellectual property
   
-
   
(7
)
Purchases of property and equipment
   
(594
)
 
(283
)
Payments received on notes receivable
   
-
   
18
 
               
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
   
308
   
(4,339
)
               
Cash flows from financing activities:
             
Repurchase of common stock
   
(1,928
)
 
-
 
Principal repayments of capitalized lease obligation
   
-
   
(39
)
Income tax benefit on stock option exercises
   
415
   
726
 
Proceeds from the exercise of stock options and warrant
   
591
   
136
 
 
             
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
   
(922
)
 
823
 
               
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
1,267
   
687
 
               
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
   
6,932
   
3,009
 
               
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
 
$
8,199
 
$
3,696
 
               
Cash paid during the period for:
             
Interest
 
$
-
 
$
1
 
Income taxes
 
$
2,506
 
$
925
 
               
Noncash Financing Activities:
             
Loan made in connection with the sale of subsidiary
 
$
2,150
 
$
-
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
 
-7-

 

NATHAN'S FAMOUS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 23, 2007
(Unaudited)
NOTE A - BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Nathan's Famous, Inc. and subsidiaries (collectively “Nathan’s”, the “Company” or “we”) for the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006 have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The unaudited financial statements include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) which, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair presentation of financial condition, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. However, these results are not necessarily indicative of results for any other interim period or the full fiscal year.

Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been omitted pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Management believes that the disclosures included in the accompanying interim financial statements and footnotes are adequate to make the information not misleading, but should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in Nathan’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 25, 2007.
 
A summary of the Company’s significant accounting policies is identified in Note B of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K. There have been no changes to the Company’s significant accounting policies subsequent to March 25, 2007, except as described in Note C, “Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements”.

On June 7, 2007, Nathan’s completed the sale of its wholly owned subsidiary, Miami Subs Corporation (See Note D).
 
NOTE B - RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS -NOT YET ADOPTED

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements(“SFAS No. 157”), to eliminate the diversity in practice that exists due to the different definitions of fair value. SFAS No. 157 retains the exchange price notion in earlier definitions of fair value, but clarifies that the exchange price is the price in an orderly transaction between market participants to sell an asset or liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability. SFAS No. 157 states that the transaction is hypothetical at the measurement date, considered from the perspective of the market participant who holds the asset or liability. As such, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (an exit price), as opposed to the price that would be paid to acquire the asset or received to assume the liability at the measurement date (an entry price). SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, which will be our fiscal 2009. We continue to evaluate the impact the adoption of SFAS No. 157 will have on our consolidated financial statements.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No.159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities — Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115” (“SFAS No. 159”). This standard amends SFAS No.115, “Accounting for Certain Investment in Debt and Equity Securities”, with respect to accounting for a transfer to the trading category for all entities with available-for-sale and trading securities electing the fair value option. This standard allows companies to elect fair value accounting for many financial instruments and other items that currently are not required to be accounted for as such, allows different applications for electing the option for a single item or groups of items, and requires disclosures to facilitate comparisons of similar assets and liabilities that are accounted for differently in relation to the fair value option. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, which will be our fiscal 2009. We continue to evaluate the impact of SFAS No.159 on our consolidated financial position and results of operations. 
 
NOTE C - ADOPTION OF ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In July 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, "Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” ("FIN No. 48"), which clarified the accounting and disclosures for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements in accordance with SFAS No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes." FIN No. 48 also provided guidance on the de-recognition of uncertain tax positions, financial statement classification, accounting for interest and penalties, accounting for interim periods and adds new disclosure requirements.

In May 2007, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) No. FIN 48-1, Definition of Settlement in FASB Interpretation No. 48”, an amendment of FASB Interpretation FIN No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes”, (“FIN 48-1”) to clarify that a tax position is effectively settled for the purpose of recognizing previously unrecognized tax benefits in accordance with paragraph 10(b) of that Interpretation if (a) the taxing authority has completed all of its required or expected examination procedures, (b) the enterprise does not intend to appeal or litigate any aspect of the tax position, and (c) it is considered remote that the taxing authority would reexamine the tax position. FIN 48-1 also conforms the terminology used in FIN No. 48 to describe measurement and recognition to the conclusions reached in the FSP. FIN 48-1 is effective as of the same dates as FIN No. 48, with retrospective application required for entities that have not applied FIN No. 48 in a manner consistent with the provisions of the FSP.
 
-8-


Nathan’s adopted the provisions of FIN No. 48 and FIN No. 48-1 on March 26, 2007 which resulted in a $155,000 adjustment to increase tax liabilities and decrease opening retained earnings in connection with a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle. The amount of unrecognized tax benefits at September 23, 2007 was $805,000, all of which would impact Nathan’s effective tax rate, if recognized. Nathan’s recognizes accrued interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits as part of the income tax provision. As of September 23, 2007, Nathan’s had $288,000 of accrued interest and penalties in connection with unrecognized tax benefits.

There was no material change in the amount of uncertain tax benefits recognized during the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended September 23, 2007. It is possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could change in the next 12 months, however, Nathan’s does not expect the change to have a significant impact on its results of operations or financial position during the next 12 months.

NOTE D - DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

The Company follows the provisions of SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets" ("SFAS No.144"), related to the accounting and reporting for components of a business to be disposed of. In accordance with SFAS No. 144, the definition of discontinued operations includes components of an entity whose cash flows are clearly identifiable. SFAS No. 144 requires the Company to classify as discontinued operations any restaurant, property or business unit that Nathan’s sells, abandons or otherwise disposes of where the Company will have no further involvement in the operation of, or cash flows from, such restaurant, property or business unit 's operations.

1. Sale of Miami Subs

On June 7, 2007, Nathan’s completed the sale of its wholly owned subsidiary, Miami Subs Corporation (“Miami Subs”) to Miami Subs Capital Partners I, Inc. (“Purchaser”). Pursuant to the Stock Purchase Agreement (“Agreement”) Nathan’s sold all of the stock of Miami Subs in exchange for $3,250,000, consisting of $850,000 in cash and the Purchaser’s promissory note in the principal amount of $2,400,000 (the “Note”). The Note bears interest at 8% per annum, is payable over a four-year term and is secured by a lien on all of the assets of Miami Subs and by the personal guarantees of two principals of the Purchaser. The Purchaser may also prepay the Note at any time. In the event the Note is fully repaid within one year, Nathan’s will reduce the amount due by $250,000. Due to the ability to prepay the loan and reduce the amount due, the recognition of the additional $250,000 has been deferred. In accordance with the Agreement, Nathan’s retained ownership of Miami Subs’ then corporate office in Ft Lauderdale, Florida (the “Corporate Office”).

The following is a summary of the assets and liabilities of Miami Subs, as of the date of sale, that were sold:

Cash
 
$
674,000
 (A)
Accounts receivable, net
 
 
213,000
 
Notes receivable, net
 
 
153,000
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
 
 
119,000
 
Deferred income taxes, net
 
 
719,000
 
Property and equipment, net
 
 
48,000
 
Intangible assets, net
 
 
1,803,000
 
Other assets, net
 
 
46,000
 
Total assets sold
 
 
3,775,000
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts payable
 
 
27,000
 
Accrued expenses
 
 
1,373,000
 (A)
Other liabilities
 
 
395,000
 
Total liabilities sold
 
 
1,795,000
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net assets sold
 
$
1,980,000
 

(A) - Includes unexpended marketing funds of $565,000.

In connection with the Agreement, Purchaser may continue to sell Nathan’s Famous and Arthur Treachers’ products within the existing restaurant system in exchange for a royalty payment of 35% of all royalties contractually due from Miami Subs franchisees on such sales.
 
-9-


Nathan’s agreed to provide the Purchaser with office space within the Corporate Office for a one-year period, rent-free. Common area charges have been reimbursed and are expected to continue to be reimbursed on a prorated basis. Nathan’s and Purchaser also agreed to share expenses related to the purchasing of food and paper products for both restaurant systems, previously provided by Miami Subs employees. Prior to the sale, this function was performed on a combined basis, which is currently being separated. Nathan’s has also agreed to provide Purchaser with certain back office support functions for a period of up to six months. These services have been concluded.

As a result of the transaction, the employment agreement between Miami Subs and its then President and Chief Operating Officer (who also serves as an executive officer of Nathan’s), which was guaranteed by Nathan’s, has been cancelled and a new employment agreement was entered into with Nathan’s on the same terms and conditions. Nathan’s had been previously performing under the terms of its guarantee. A change of control agreement with another senior executive of Miami Subs has been cancelled and a new agreement was entered into with Nathan’s on the same terms and conditions.

At the time of sale, a severance agreement, previously entered into between Miami Subs and one executive of Miami Subs, remained in force along with the guaranty by Nathan’s of Miami Subs' obligations under that agreement. The agreement provided for a severance payment of $115,000 payable in six (6) monthly installments and payment for post-employment health benefits for the employee and dependants for the maximum period permitted under Federal Law. Nathan’s has the right to seek reimbursement from Miami Subs Corporation in the event that Nathan’s must make payments under the guarantee of the agreement. Nathan’s has recorded a liability of $115,000 for this guarantee.

Nathan’s has realized a gain on the sale of $983,000, net of professional fees of $37,000 and recorded income taxes of $334,000 on the gain. Nathan’s has determined that it will not have any significant cash flows or continuing involvement in the ongoing operations of Miami Subs. Therefore, the results of operations for Miami Subs, including the gain on disposal, for the twenty-six week periods ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006 have been presented as discontinued operations. The accompanying balance sheet for the fiscal year ended March 25, 2007, has been revised to reflect the assets and liabilities of Miami Subs that were subsequently sold, as held for sale as of that date.

2. Other Dispositions

On January 26, 2006, two of Nathan’s wholly-owned subsidiaries entered into a Lease Termination Agreement with respect to three leased properties in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with its landlord, and CVS 3285 FL, L.L.C., (“CVS”) to sell our leasehold interests to CVS for $2,000,000. As the properties were subject to certain sublease and management agreements between Nathan’s and the then-current occupants, Nathan’s made payments to, or forgave indebtedness of, the then-current occupants of the properties and paid brokerage commissions of $494,000 in the aggregate. Nathan’s made the property available to the buyer by May 29, 2007 and Nathan’s received the proceeds of the sale on June 5, 2007. Nathan’s recognized a gain of $1,506,000 and recorded income taxes of $557,000 during the twenty-six week period ended September 23, 2007. The results of operations for these properties, including the gain on disposal, have been included as discontinued operations for the twenty-six week periods ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006.

In October 2006, Nathan’s recognized income of $400,000 representing the remaining balance that it was owed pursuant to a sale of a leasehold interest in Brooklyn, New York that was outstanding as of March 26, 2006.

The following is a summary of all discontinued operations for the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006:

 
 
Thirteen weeks
ended
September 23,
 2007
 
Thirteen weeks
ended
September 24,
2006
 
Twenty-six weeks
ended
September 23,
2007
 
Twenty-six weeks
ended
September 24,
2006
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
(in thousands)
 
(in thousands)
 
(in thousands)
 
Revenues (excluding gains from dispositions in 2007 and 2006)
 
$
0
 
$
629
 
$
430
 
$
1,275
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gain from dispositions before income taxes
 
$
0
 
$
400
 
$
2,489
 
$
400
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income before income taxes
 
$
0
 
$
627
 
$
2,711
 
$
925
 
 
-10-

 
NOTE E - INCOME PER SHARE 

Basic income per common share is calculated by dividing income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and excludes any dilutive effect of stock options or warrants. Diluted income per common share gives effect to all potentially dilutive common shares that were outstanding during the period. Dilutive common shares used in the computation of diluted income per common share result from the assumed exercise of stock options and warrants, using the treasury stock method.

The following chart provides a reconciliation of information used in calculating the per share amounts for the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006, respectively.

Thirteen weeks
 
 
 
Income from Continuing Operations
 
Number of Shares
 
Income from Continuing Operations Per Share
 
 
 
2007
 
2006
 
2007
 
2006
 
2007
 
2006
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
Basic EPS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic calculation
 
$
1,774
 
$
1,477
 
 
6,119
 
 
5,773
 
$
0.29
 
$
0.26
 
Effect of dilutive employee stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
options and warrants
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
443
 
 
454
 
 
(0.02
)
 
(0.02
)
Diluted EPS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted calculation
 
$
1,774
 
$
1,477
 
 
6,562
 
 
6,227
 
$
0.27
 
$
0.24
 
 
 
Twenty-six weeks
 
 
 
Income from Continuing Operations
 
Number of Shares
 
Income from Continuing Operations Per Share
 
 
 
2007
 
2006
 
2007
 
2006
 
2007
 
2006
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
Basic EPS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic calculation
 
$
3,198
 
$
2,698
 
 
6,069
 
 
5,753
 
$
0.53
 
$
0.47
 
Effect of dilutive employee stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
options and warrants
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
461
 
 
513
 
 
(0.04
)
 
(0.04
)
Diluted EPS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted calculation
 
$
3,198
 
$
2,698
 
 
6,530
 
 
6,266
 
$
0.49
 
$
0.43
 

All options and warrants to purchase shares of common stock in the thirteen and twenty-six week period ended September 23, 2007 were included in the computation of diluted EPS. Options and warrants to purchase 197,500 shares of common stock in the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended September 24, 2006 were not included in the computation of diluted EPS because the exercise prices exceeded the average market price of common shares during the period.
 
NOTE F - SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
 
Total share-based compensation during the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended September 23, 2007 was $83,000 and $181,000, respectively. Total share-based compensation during the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended September 24, 2006 was $105,000 and $158,000, respectively. Total share-based compensation was included in general and administrative expense in our accompanying Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006. As of September 23, 2007, there was $1,542,000 of unamortized compensation expense related to stock options. We expect to recognize this expense over approximately three years, eight months, which represents the weighted average remaining requisite service periods for such awards.
 
During the twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007, the Company granted 110,000 stock options having an exercise price of $17.43 per share, all of which expire five years from the date of grant. 60,000 of the options granted will be vested as follows: 25% on the first anniversary of the grant, 50% on the second anniversary of the grant, 75% on the third anniversary of the grant and 100% on the fourth anniversary of the grant. 50,000 of the options granted will be vested as follows: 33.3% on the first anniversary of the grant, 66.7% on the second anniversary of the grant and 100% on the third anniversary of the grant.
 
During the twenty-six weeks ended September 24, 2006, the Company granted 197,500 stock options having an exercise price of $13.08 per share, all of which expire ten years from the date of grant. All 197,500 options granted will be vested as follows: 20% on the first anniversary of the grant, 40% on the second anniversary of the grant, 60% on the third anniversary of the grant, 80% on the fourth anniversary of the grant and 100% on the fifth anniversary of the grant.
 
-11-


The weighted-average option fair values, as determined using the Black-Scholes option valuation model, and the assumptions used to estimate these values for stock options granted during the twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006 are as follows:

 
 
Twenty Six Weeks Ended
 
 
 
September 23
 
September 24
 
 
 
2007
 
2006
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-average option fair values
 
$
5.8270
 
$
6.1686
 
Expected life (years)
 
 
4.25
 
 
7.0
 
Interest rate
 
 
4.21
%
 
5.21
%
Volatility
 
 
32.93
%
 
34.33
%
Dividend yield
 
 
0
%
 
0
%
 
In June 2001, the Company adopted the Nathan’s Famous, Inc. 2001 Stock Option Plan (the “2001 Plan”), which provided for the issuance of nonqualified stock options to directors, officers and key employees. Up to 350,000 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance upon the exercise of options granted and for future issuance in connection with awards under the 2001 Plan. As of March 25, 2007, there were 3,500 shares available to be issued in the future under this plan.  On September 12, 2007, Nathan’s shareholders approved certain modifications to the Registrant’s 2001 Stock Option Plan (the “Plan”), which increased in the number of options available for future grant by 275,000 shares. On September 17, 2007, 110,000 stock options were granted and there were 168,500 shares available to be issued in the future under this plan.
 
Stock options and warrant outstanding: 
 
Transactions with respect to stock options and warrants for the twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007, are as follows:

 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-
 
 
 
       
Weighted-
 
Average
     
 
 
 
 
Average
 
Remaining
 
Aggregate
 
 
 
 
 
Exercise
 
Contractual
 
Intrinsic
 
 
 
Shares
 
Price
 
Life
 
Value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Options outstanding at March 25, 2007
 
 
1,172,308
 
$
5.21
 
 
4.3
 
$
10,839,000
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Granted
 
 
110,000
 
 
17.43
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Expired
 
 
(8,500
)
 
6.20
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercised
 
 
(32,500
)
 
3.19
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Options outstanding at September 23, 2007
 
 
1,241,308
 
$
6.34
 
 
4.0
 
$
13,589,000
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Options exercisable at September 23, 2007
 
 
973,308
 
$
4.00
 
 
3.1
 
$
12,843,000
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-average fair value of options granted
 
 
 
 
$
5.83
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Warrant outstanding at March 25, 2007
 
 
150,000
 
$
3.25
 
 
.3
 
$
1,682,000
 
Granted
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Expired
 
 
-
 
 
-
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercised
 
 
(150,000
)
 
3.25
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Warrant outstanding at September 23, 2007
 
 
-
 
$
-
 
 
-
 
$
-
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Warrant exercisable at September 23, 2007
 
 
-
 
$
-
 
 
-
 
$
-
 
 
The aggregate intrinsic values of the stock options exercised during the thirteen weeks ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006, were $2,631,000 and $1,605,000, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic values of the stock options exercised during the twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006 were $2,631,000 and $1,794,000, respectively.
 
-12-


NOTE G - STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM

Through September 23, 2007, Nathan’s has purchased a total of 2,000,000 shares of common stock at a cost of approximately $9,086,000 in completion of the stock repurchase plan previously authorized by the Board of Directors. Of these repurchased shares, 108,900 shares were repurchased at a cost of $1,928,000 during the thirteen weeks and twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007.
 
NOTE H - COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

The components of comprehensive income are as follows:
 
 
 
Thirteen weeks
ended
September 23,
 2007
 
Thirteen weeks
ended
September 24,
2006
 
Twenty-six weeks
ended
September 23,
2007
 
Twenty-six weeks
ended
September 24,
2006
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
(in thousands)
 
(in thousands)
 
(in thousands)
 
Net income
 
$
1,774
 
$
1,844
 
$
4,926
 
$
3,240
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities, net of tax of $125, $118, $44 and $87, respectively  
 
 
183
 
 
189
 
 
64
 
 
131
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comprehensive income
 
$
1,957
 
$
2,033
 
$
4,990
 
$
3,371
 
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at September 23, 2007 and March 25, 2007 consists entirely of unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, net of deferred taxes.

NOTE I - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

1. Contingencies

 On March 20, 2007, a personal injury lawsuit was initiated seeking unspecified damages against the Company's subtenant and the Company's master landlord at a leased property in Huntington, New York.  The claim relates to damages suffered by an individual as a result of an alleged "trip and fall" on the sidewalk in front of the leased property, maintenance of which is the subtenant's responsibility.  Although the Company was not named as a defendant in the lawsuit, under its master lease agreement the Company may have an obligation to indemnify the master landlord in connection with this claim.  The Company did not maintain its own insurance on the property concerned at the time of the incident; however, the Company is named as an additional insured under its subtenant's liability policy.  Accordingly, if the master landlord is found liable for damages and seeks indemnity from the Company, the Company believes that it would be entitled to coverage under the subtenant's insurance policy.  Additionally, under the terms of the sublease, the subtenant is required to indemnify the Company, regardless of insurance coverage.

The Company is party to a License Agreement with SMG, Inc. ("SMG") dated as of February 28, 1994, as amended (the "License Agreement") pursuant to which SMG acts as: (i) the Company’s exclusive licensee for the manufacture, distribution, marketing and sale of packaged Nathan’s Famous frankfurter product at supermarkets, club stores and other retail outlets in the United States; and (ii) the Company’s primary supplier of frankfurters for the Company’s Nathan’s Famous restaurant system and Branded Products Program. On July 31, 2007, the Company provided notice to SMG that the Company has elected to terminate the License Agreement, effective July 31, 2008 (the “Termination Date”), due to SMG's breach of certain provisions of the License Agreement. SMG has disputed that a breach has occurred. As a result of this dispute, the Company and SMG each commenced separate actions against the other. The Company's action was filed in New York State court and seeks a declaratory judgment that SMG has breached the License Agreement and that the Company has properly terminated the License Agreement. SMG's action was filed in state court in Illinois and seeks a declaratory judgment that SMG did not breach the License Agreement and that the Company may not terminate the License Agreement. At the present time, the New York court is considering SMG’s motion to dismiss Nathan’s case on forum non conveniens and other grounds. Nathan’s has not yet responded to SMG’s complaint in Illinois. No assurances regarding the outcome of this matter can be given. The Company is unable to assess the degree of probability of an unfavorable outcome or estimated loss or liability, if any, no estimated loss has been recorded for this matter.

In addition to the aforementioned, we and our subsidiaries are from time to time involved in ordinary and routine litigation. Management presently believes that the ultimate outcome of any ordinary and routine litigation individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, cash flows or results of operations. Nevertheless, litigation is subject to inherent uncertainties and unfavorable rulings could occur. An unfavorable ruling could include money damages and, in such event, could result in a material adverse impact on our results of operations for the period in which the ruling occurs.

-13-


2. Guarantees

Nathan’s had previously guaranteed a severance agreement that was entered into between Miami Subs Corporation and an executive of Miami Subs. The agreement, and therefore the guarantee, provided for a severance payment of $115,000 and payment for post-employment health benefits for the employee and dependants for the maximum period permitted under Federal Law. Nathan’s has the right to seek reimbursement from Miami Subs Corporation in the event that Nathan’s must make payments under the guarantee. Nathan’s has recorded a liability of $115,000 in connection with this guarantee.

NOTE J - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

On November 5, 2007, Nathan’s Board of Directors has authorized the purchase of up to an additional 500,000 shares of its common stock on behalf of the Company.

On September 5, 2007, Nathan’s completed its second stock acquisition program covering 1 million shares. To date, Nathan’s has repurchased 2 million shares of its common stock at a cost of $9,158,000.

Purchases will be made from time to time, depending on market conditions, in open market or privately negotiated transactions, at prices deemed appropriate by management. There is no set time limit on the repurchases.

-14-

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Introduction

As used in this Report, the terms “we”, “us”, “our”, “Nathan’s” or “the Company” mean Nathan’s Famous, Inc. and its subsidiaries (unless the context indicates a different meaning).

Our revenues are generated primarily from selling products under Nathan’s Branded Product Program, operating Company-owned restaurants, franchising the Nathan’s restaurant concept, including the Arthur Treacher’s and Kenny Rogers brands and licensing the sale of Nathan’s products within supermarkets and other retail venues. The Branded Product Program enables foodservice operators to offer Nathans’ hot dogs and other proprietary items for sale within their facilities. In conjunction with this program, foodservice operators are granted a limited use of the Nathans’ trademark with respect to the sale of hot dogs and certain other proprietary food items and paper goods.

On June 7, 2007, Nathan’s concluded the sale of its subsidiary, Miami Subs Corporation. The following discussion of continuing operations excludes all of the Miami Subs operations not retained by Nathan’s. In order to help the reader better understand Nathan’s continuing operations, certain non-financial information which was reported on a combined basis, has also been included in this Management Discussion and Analysis.

We have begun a new program of licensing limited menu "Nathan's Famous" ("Limited Menu Licensed Operations") to be included into new or existing food service establishments. Pursuant to this program, operators will be permitted to make limited use of the "Nathan's Famous" trade dress, trademarks and design for the purpose of adding only "Nathan's Famous" hot dogs, crinkle-cut French fries and a limited number of other approved "Nathan's Famous" menu items to the menu of a new or existing food service establishment. The location of the new or existing food service establishment, the specific manner in which the Limited Menu Licensed Operation is incorporated into the operation of the food service establishment and the specific use of our trade dress, trademarks and design will all be subject to our prior written approval and must meet our specifications. The initial license fee under a Limited Menu Licensed Operation is $7,500. Additionally, operators participating in this program will not be required to pay any royalties or make any contributions on the sale of "Nathan's Famous" products to the “Nathan’s Famous” advertising fund;  however, all products offered through the Limited Menu Licensed Operation must be purchased from us or a distributor approved by us, and we will make a profit on all such sales.

 At September 23, 2007, our combined restaurant system consisted of 302 franchised or licensed units, including the limited-menu licensed units described above, and six Company-owned units (including one seasonal unit), located in 21 states and 11 foreign countries. At September 24, 2006, our combined restaurant system consisted of 297 franchised or licensed units and six Company-owned units (including one seasonal unit), located in 20 states and 11 foreign countries.

The following summary reflects the franchise openings and closings, excluding the Miami Subs franchise system which was sold effective May 31, 2007, for the fiscal years ended March 25, 2007, March 26, 2006, March 27, 2005, March 28, 2004 and March 30, 2003:
 
     
March 25, 2007
 
 
March 26, 2006
 
 
March 27, 2005
 
 
March 28, 2004
 
 
March 30, 2003
 
Franchised restaurants operating at the beginning of the period
   
290
   
271
   
247
   
237
   
235
 
New franchised restaurants opened during the period
   
19
   
30
   
37
   
36
   
22
 
Franchised restaurants closed during the period
   
(17
)
 
(11
)
 
(13
)
 
(26
)
 
(20
)
Franchised restaurants operating at the end of the period
   
292
   
290
   
271
   
247
   
237
 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 As disclosed in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 25, 2007, the discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses reported in those financial statements. These judgments can be subjective and complex, and consequently, actual results could differ from those estimates. Our most critical accounting policies and estimates relate to revenue recognition; impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets; impairment of long-lived assets; impairment of notes receivable; share-based compensation and income taxes. Since March 25, 2007, there have been no changes in our critical accounting policies or significant changes to the assumptions and estimates related to them, except for the accounting for uncertain tax positions.
 
-15-

Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements
 
See Note C, on page 8 of this Form 10-Q, for a complete discussion of the impact of FIN No.48 on the Company’s financial position and results of operations.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted

See Note B, on page 8 of this Form 10-Q, for a discussion of recently issued accounting standards not yet adopted.

Results of Operations 

Thirteen weeks ended September 23, 2007 compared to thirteen weeks ended September 24, 2006
 
Revenues from Continuing Operations

Total sales increased by $1,028,000 or 10.0% to $11,257,000 for the thirteen weeks ended September 23, 2007 ("second quarter fiscal 2008") as compared to $10,229,000 for the thirteen weeks ended September 24, 2006 ("second quarter fiscal 2007"). Sales from the Branded Product Program increased by 6.9% to $5,199,000 for the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to sales of $4,864,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007. This increase was primarily attributable to increased sales volume. Total Company-owned restaurant sales (representing six comparable Nathan’s restaurants) increased by 13.7% to $4,934,000 as compared to $4,341,000 during the second quarter fiscal 2007. During the second quarter fiscal 2008, the very favorable weather conditions during the summer season had a positive impact on sales at our Coney Island locations. Sales to our television retailer during the second quarter fiscal 2008, were approximately $100,000 higher than the second quarter fiscal 2007. Nathan’s aired 12 times during the second quarter fiscal 2008 and the second quarter fiscal 2007. Sales during the second quarter fiscal 2008 included the shipment of orders taken during the thirteen weeks ended June 23, 2007, which is the first quarter fiscal 2008, for the “Try Me” special. Last year, shipments from the “Try Me” special occurred during the thirteen weeks ended June 25, 2006, which was the first quarter fiscal 2007.

Franchise fees and royalties increased by $202,000 or 16.6% to $1,421,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 compared to $1,219,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007. Franchise royalties were $1,133,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to $1,104,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007. Franchise restaurant sales increased by $1,670,000 to $27,231,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to $25,561,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007. Comparable domestic franchise sales (consisting of 142 restaurants) increased by $1,114,000 or 5.5% to $21,517,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to $20,403,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007. During the second quarter fiscal 2007, we recognized $59,000 of royalties that were previously deemed to be uncollectible. At September 23, 2007, 302 domestic and international franchised or limited-menu licensed units were operating as compared to 291 domestic and international franchised or licensed units at September 24, 2006. Royalty income from six domestic franchised location was deemed unrealizable during the thirteen weeks ended September 23, 2007, as compared to two domestic franchised locations during the thirteen weeks ended September 24, 2006. Domestic franchise fee income was $137,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to $54,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007. International franchise fee income was $66,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008, as compared to $61,000 during the second quarter fiscal 2007. During the second quarter fiscal 2008, 11 new franchised units opened, including seven limited-menu license units and one unit in Kuwait. During the second quarter fiscal 2007, three new franchised units were opened, including one in Kuwait. We also recognized $85,000 in connection with a forfeited franchise agreement and development agreement during the second quarter fiscal 2008.

License royalties increased by $126,000 or 13.9% to $1,033,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to $907,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007. Total royalties earned on sales of hot dogs from our agreements of $816,000 increased by $124,000 or 17.9%. Royalties earned from SMG, primarily from the sale of hot dogs, were $698,000 during the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to $602,000 during the second quarter fiscal 2007. Net royalties from all other license agreements in the second quarter fiscal 2008 were $2,000 higher than the second quarter fiscal 2007.

Interest income was $289,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 versus $147,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007 due primarily to higher interest earned on the increased amount of marketable securities owned during the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to the second quarter fiscal 2007. Interest income during the second quarter fiscal 2008 also included $48,000 earned on the note held in connection with the sale of Miami Subs in May 2007.

Other income was $62,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 versus $32,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007. This increase was due primarily to a $30,000 consent fee earned in connection with a licensee’s refinancing.
 
-16-

Costs and Expenses from Continuing Operations

Cost of sales increased by $1,079,000 to $7,983,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 from $6,904,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007. Our gross profit (representing the difference between sales and cost of sales) was $3,274,000 or 29.1% during the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to $3,325,000 or 32.5% during the second quarter fiscal 2007. The primary reason for this reduced margin has been the result of the higher cost of beef, especially in connection with the Branded Product Program, during the second quarter fiscal 2008. Our cost of hot dogs was approximately 11.2% higher during the second quarter fiscal 2008 than the second quarter fiscal 2007. We are uncertain about the future cost of our hot dogs. Overall, our Branded Product Program incurred higher costs totaling approximately $688,000. This increase is the result of the increased cost of product and higher sales volume during the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to the second quarter fiscal 2007. During the second quarter fiscal 2008, we began to realize the effects of the price increase introduced for our Branded Products during the first quarter fiscal 2008. During the second quarter fiscal 2008, the cost of restaurant sales at our six comparable Company-owned units was $2,661,000 or 53.9% of restaurant sales as compared to $2,365,000 or 54.5% of restaurant sales in the second quarter fiscal 2007. The percentage decrease was primarily due to the effect that higher selling prices had which lowered food and paper costs as a percentage of sales. Cost of sales also increased by $95,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 due primarily to higher sales volume and higher product costs to our television retailer.

Restaurant operating expenses increased by $54,000 to $913,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 from $859,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007. The increase during the second quarter fiscal 2008 when compared to the second quarter fiscal 2007, results primarily from higher marketing costs of $18,000, maintenance costs of $17,000 and utilities of $13,000.

Depreciation and amortization was $192,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to $185,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2007.

Amortization of intangible assets was $9,000 in both the second quarter fiscal 2008 and second quarter fiscal 2007.

General and administrative expenses increased by $1,000 to $2,145,000 in the second quarter fiscal 2008. The difference in general and administrative expenses was primarily due to higher professional fees of $23,000 due to costs associated with Nathan’s litigation against SMG, which were partly offset by lower SOX 404 compliance costs. We did not incur any SOX compliance costs during the second quarter fiscal 2008 compared to $92,000 incurred in the second quarter fiscal 2007. Nathan’s stock-based compensation expense was $22,000 lower in the second quarter fiscal 2008 than the second quarter fiscal 2007. We expect to incur higher general and administrative expenses during the remainder of the fiscal year related to future SMG litigation costs and the additional costs of SOX 404 compliance and associated audit, the actual amounts of which are not presently determinable.
 
Provision for Income Taxes from Continuing Operations

In the second quarter fiscal 2008, the income tax provision was $1,046,000 or 37.1% of income from continuing operations before income taxes as compared to $956,000 or 39.3% of income from continuing operations before income taxes in the second quarter fiscal 2007. For the thirteen weeks, Nathan’s tax provision, excluding the effects of tax-exempt interest income, was 40.5% during the second quarter fiscal 2008 and 41.8% during the second quarter fiscal 2007.

Discontinued Operations     

On June 7, 2007, Nathan’s completed the sale of its wholly owned subsidiary, Miami Subs Corporation to Miami Subs Capital Partners I, Inc. effective as of May 31, 2007. The results of operations of Miami Subs have been included as discontinued operations for the second quarter fiscal 2007, which ended September 24, 2006.

On January 26, 2006, two of Nathan’s wholly owned subsidiaries entered into a Lease Termination Agreement with respect to three leased properties in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with its landlord and CVS 3285 FL, L.L.C., (“CVS”) to sell our leasehold interests to CVS. The sale was completed during the first quarter fiscal 2008. The results of operations for these properties have been included as discontinued operations for the second quarter fiscal 2007, which ended September 24, 2006.

During the second quarter fiscal 2007, which ended September 24, 2006, we recognized income of $39,000 and a gain of $400,000 from discontinued operations resulting from the collection of proceeds from the sale of our leasehold interest and certain reimbursable operating expenses that were not reasonably assured as of March 26, 2006 in connection with the fiscal 2006 sale of vacant property at Coney Island.
 
-17-

 
Twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007 compared to twenty-six weeks ended September 24, 2006
 
Revenues from Continuing Operations

Total sales increased by $1,687,000 or 8.7% to $21,078,000 for the twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007 ("fiscal 2008 period") as compared to $19,391,000 for the twenty-six weeks ended September 24, 2006 ("fiscal 2007 period"). Sales from the Branded Product Program increased by 11.9% to $11,124,000 for the fiscal 2008 period as compared to sales of $9,937,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. This increase was primarily attributable to increased sales volume of 10.5%. Total Company-owned restaurant sales (representing six comparable Nathan’s restaurants) increased by 12.8% to $8,567,000 as compared to $7,595,000 during the fiscal 2007 period. During the fiscal 2008 period, the very favorable weather conditions during the summer season had a positive impact on sales at our Coney Island locations. During the fiscal 2008 period, sales to our television retailer were approximately $472,000 lower than the fiscal 2007 period. Our television retailer reduced its number of special food airings during the fiscal 2008 period. As a result, Nathan’s did not run a “Today’s Special Value” which ran during the first quarter fiscal 2007 and there was a change in the timing of the “Try Me” specials. This year, shipments from the “Try Me” specials occurred in the second quarter fiscal 2008 as compared to the first quarter fiscal 2007. Nathan’s was on air 35 times during the fiscal 2008 period as compared to 40 times during the fiscal 2007 period, which included eight “Today’s Special Value” airings.

Franchise fees and royalties increased by $352,000 or 15.0% to $2,691,000 in the fiscal 2008 period compared to $2,339,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. Franchise royalties were $2,205,000 in the fiscal 2008 period as compared to $2,107,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. Franchise restaurant sales increased by $1,664,000 to $51,177,000 in the fiscal 2008 period as compared to $49,513,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. Comparable domestic franchise sales (consisting of 142 Nathan’s restaurants) increased by $1,582,000 or 4.0% to $41,487,000 in the fiscal 2008 period as compared to $39,905,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. During the fiscal 2008 period, we recognized $55,000 of royalties that were previously deemed to be uncollectible as compared to $87,000 during the fiscal 2007 period. At September 23, 2007, 302 domestic and international franchised or limited-menu licensed units were operating as compared to 291 domestic and international franchised or licensed units at September 24, 2006. Royalty income from four domestic franchised locations was deemed unrealizable during the twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007, as compared to two domestic franchised locations during the twenty-six weeks ended September 24, 2006. Domestic franchise fee income was $250,000 in the fiscal 2008 period as compared to $120,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. International franchise fee income was $151,000 in the fiscal 2008 period, as compared to $112,000 during the fiscal 2007 period. During the fiscal 2008 period, 20 new franchised units opened, including ten limited-menu licensed units and three units in Kuwait. During the fiscal 2007 period, seven new franchised units were opened including one in Japan and one unit in Kuwait. We also recognized $85,000 in connection with a forfeited franchise agreement and development agreement fees during the fiscal 2008 period.

License royalties increased by $377,000 or 18.1% to $2,460,000 in the fiscal 2008 period as compared to $2,083,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. Total royalties earned on sales of hot dogs of $1,911,000 increased by $253,000 or 15.3%. Royalties earned from SMG from the sale primarily of hot dogs were $1,671,000 during the fiscal 2008 period as compared to $1,488,000 during the fiscal 2007 period. We also earned higher royalties of $136,000 from our agreements for the sale of Nathan’s pet treats and sales of hot dog and hamburger rolls at retail. Net royalties from all other license agreements in the fiscal 2008 period were $12,000 lower than the fiscal 2007 period.

Interest income was $524,000 in the fiscal 2008 period versus $277,000 in the fiscal 2007 period due primarily to higher interest earned on the increased amount of marketable securities owned during the fiscal 2008 period as compared to the fiscal 2007 period. Interest income during the fiscal 2008 period also included $64,000 earned on the note held in connection with the sale of Miami Subs in May 2007.

Other income was $88,000 in the fiscal 2008 period versus $42,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. This increase was due primarily to increased amounts earned on our products sold by other restaurant companies and a one time $30,000 consent fee earned in connection with a licensee’s refinancing.

Costs and Expenses from Continuing Operations

Cost of sales increased by $1,888,000 to $15,411,000 in the fiscal 2008 period from $13,523,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. Our gross profit (representing the difference between sales and cost of sales) was $5,667,000 or 26.9% during the fiscal 2008 period as compared to $5,868,000 or 30.3% during the fiscal 2007 period. The primary reason for this reduced margin has been the result of the higher cost of beef, especially in connection with the Branded Product Program. Commodity costs of our hot dogs during the fiscal 2007 period had continued to decrease until January 2007, when prices began to increase. During the first quarter fiscal 2008, our costs of hot dogs continued to escalate, hitting a peak in May 2007. Since then, prices have been lower, but are still higher than the comparable fiscal 2007 period. Our cost of hot dogs was approximately 11.8% higher during the fiscal 2008 period than the fiscal 2007 period. We are uncertain about the future cost of our hot dogs. Overall, our Branded Product Program incurred higher costs totaling approximately $1,760,000. This increase is the result of the increased cost of product and higher sales volume during the fiscal 2008 period as compared to the fiscal 2007 period. During the fiscal 2008 period, the cost of restaurant sales at our six comparable Company-owned units was $4,737,000 or 55.3% of restaurant sales as compared to $4,246,000 or 55.9% of restaurant sales in the fiscal 2007 period. The percentage decrease was primarily due to the effect that higher retail selling prices have had which lowered labor costs as a percentage of sales. During the first quarter fiscal 2008, we increased select menu prices between 5% and 10% in an attempt to offset some of the increased cost of product in our Company-owned restaurants. During the second quarter fiscal 2008, we began to realize the effects of the Branded Products price increase that took effect on June 15, 2007. Cost of sales also decreased by $363,000 in the fiscal 2008 period due primarily to lower sales volume to our television retailer.
 
-18-

Restaurant operating expenses increased by $48,000 to $1,751,000 in the fiscal 2008 period from $1,703,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. The increase during the fiscal 2008 period when compared to the fiscal 2007 period results primarily from higher utility costs of $46,000, marketing costs of $22,000 and maintenance costs of $17,000, which were partly offset by lower self-insurance costs of $37,000. During the fiscal 2008 period our utility costs were approximately 13.1% higher than the fiscal 2007 period. Based upon uncertain market conditions for oil and natural gas, we may continue to incur higher utility costs in the future.

Depreciation and amortization was $374,000 in the fiscal 2008 period as compared to $370,000 in the fiscal 2007 period.

Amortization of intangible assets was $17,000 in both the fiscal 2008 and fiscal 2007 periods.

General and administrative expenses increased by $108,000 to $4,223,000 in the fiscal 2008 period as compared to $4,115,000 in the fiscal 2007 period. The increase in general and administrative expenses was primarily due to higher compensation expense of $58,000, higher business development expenses of $43,000 and higher stock-based compensation expense of $23,000, which were partly offset by lower professional fees of $57,000. Nathan’s expects to continue to invest in the business development of its Branded Products and franchising programs. We expect to incur higher general and administrative expenses during the remainder of the fiscal year related to future SMG litigation costs and the additional costs of SOX 404 compliance and associated audit, the actual amounts of which are not presently determinable. 

Provision for Income Taxes from Continuing Operations

In the fiscal 2008 period, the income tax provision was $1,867,000 or 36.9% of income from continuing operations before income taxes as compared to $1,706,000 or 38.7% of income from continuing operations before income taxes in the fiscal 2007 period. For the twenty-six weeks, Nathan’s tax provision, excluding the effects of tax-exempt interest income, was 40.5% during the fiscal 2008 period and 41.9% during the fiscal 2007 period.

Discontinued Operations     

On June 7, 2007, Nathan’s completed the sale of its wholly owned subsidiary, Miami Subs Corporation to Miami Subs Capital Partners I, Inc. effective as of May 31, 2007. Pursuant to the Stock Purchase Agreement, Nathan’s sold all of the stock of Miami Subs in exchange for $3,250,000, consisting of $850,000 in cash and the Purchaser’s promissory note in the principal amount of $2,400,000 (the “Note”). Nathan’s has realized a gain on the sale of $983,000 net of professional fees of $37,000 and recorded income taxes of $334,000 on the gain during the fiscal 2008 period. The results of Miami Subs Corporation including the gain on disposal, have been included as discontinued operations for the twenty-six week periods ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006.

On January 26, 2006, two of Nathan’s wholly owned subsidiaries entered into a Lease Termination Agreement with respect to three leased properties in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with its landlord and CVS 3285 FL, L.L.C., (“CVS”) to sell our leasehold interests to CVS for $2,000,000. As the properties were subject to certain sublease and management agreements between Nathan’s and the then-current occupants, Nathan’s made payments to, or forgave indebtedness of, the then-current occupants of the properties and paid brokerage commissions of $494,000 in the aggregate. The property was made available to the buyer by May 29, 2007 and we received the sale proceeds on June 5, 2007. Nathan’s recognized a gain of $1,506,000 and recorded income taxes of $557,000 during the twenty-six week period ended September 23, 2007. The results of operations for these properties, including the gain on disposal, have been included as discontinued operations for the twenty-six week periods ended September 23, 2007 and September 24, 2006.

During the fiscal 2007 period, income of $39,000 and a gain of $400,000 were recorded into income from discontinued operations resulting from the collection of proceeds from the sale of our leasehold interest and certain reimbursable operating expenses that were not reasonably assured as of March 26, 2006 in connection with the fiscal 2006 sale of vacant property at Coney Island.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We are not a party to any off-balance sheet arrangements, other than a guarantee of a severance agreement as discussed in Note I of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
-19-

Liquidity and Capital Resources   

Cash and cash equivalents at September 23, 2007 aggregated $8,199,000, increasing by $1,267,000 during the fiscal 2008 period. At September 23, 2007, marketable securities were $23,537,000 and net working capital increased to $32,446,000 from $27,375,000 at March 25, 2007.

Cash provided by operations of $1,881,000 in the fiscal 2008 period is primarily attributable to net income of $4,926,000 less gains of $2,489,000 from the sale of our subsidiary, Miami Subs Corporation, and sales of our leasehold interests, plus other non-cash items of $704,000. Changes in Nathan’s operating assets and liabilities decreased cash by $1,260,000, resulting principally from decreased accounts payable and other liabilities of $719,000, increased inventories of $381,000 and increased accounts receivable of $276,000 which were partly offset by a decrease in and the usage of prepaid expenses of $259,000. The decrease in accounts payable and other liabilities is primarily due to the payment of estimated corporate income tax and a seasonal reduction in trade accounts payable. Accounts receivable increased because of seasonal fluctuations in royalties due from our primary licensee and the timing of sales to our television retailer. Prepaid expenses decreased because of the amortization of prepaid real estate taxes, insurance and marketing costs.

Cash was provided from investing activities of $308,000 in the fiscal 2008 period, primarily due to the sale of a leasehold interest and the sale of our subsidiary, Miami Subs Corporation totaling $1,691,000. We invested $1,089,000 in available-for-sale securities, redeemed $300,000 of maturing securities and incurred capital expenditures of $594,000.

Cash was used in financing activities during the twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007 with the purchase of 108,900 treasury shares at a cost of $1,928,000 as Nathan’s completed the stock repurchase plan as authorized by the Board of Directors. Cash was received from the proceeds of employee stock option and warrant exercises of $591,000 and the associated income tax benefit of $415,000.

Through September 23, 2007, Nathan’s has purchased a total of 2,000,000 shares of common stock at a cost of approximately $9,086,000, concluding the stock repurchase plan previously authorized by the Board of Directors. During the twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007 the Company repurchased 108,900 shares if its common stock at a total cost of $1,928,000.

We expect that we will make additional investments in certain existing restaurants and support the growth of the Branded Product Program in the future and fund those investments from our operating cash flow. We may also incur capital expenditures in connection with opportunistic investments on a case-by-case basis.

 At September 23, 2007, there were three properties that we lease from third parties which we sublease to franchisees and a non-franchisee. We remain contingently liable for all costs associated with these properties including: rent, property taxes and insurance. We may incur future cash payments with respect to such properties, consisting primarily of future lease payments, including costs and expenses associated with terminating any of such leases.

The following schedule represents Nathan’s cash contractual obligations by maturity (in thousands):   
 
       
Payments Due by Period
 
       
Less than
             
Cash Contractual Obligations
 
Total
 
1 Year
 
1 - 3 Years
 
4-5 Years
 
After 5 Years
 
Employment Agreements
 
$
3,787
 
$
1,251
 
$
1,036
 
$
800
 
$
700
 
Operating Leases
   
2,837
   
1,230
   
1,449
   
158
   
-
 
Gross Cash Contractual Obligations
   
6,624
   
2,481
   
2,485
   
958
   
700
 
                                 
Sublease Income
   
688
   
232
   
399
   
57
   
-
 
Net Cash Contractual Obligations
 
$
5,936
 
$
2,249
 
$
2,086
 
$
901
 
$
700
 
 
Management believes that available cash, marketable securities, and cash generated from operations should provide sufficient capital to finance our operations for at least the next twelve months. We also currently maintain a $7,500,000 uncommitted bank line of credit and have never borrowed any funds under this line of credit.
 
-20-

 
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Cash and cash equivalents

We have historically invested our cash and cash equivalents in short term, fixed rate, highly rated and highly liquid instruments which are reinvested when they mature throughout the year. Although our existing investments are not considered at risk with respect to changes in interest rates or markets for these instruments, our rate of return on short-term investments could be affected at the time of reinvestment as a result of intervening events. As of September 23, 2007, Nathans’ cash and cash equivalents aggregated $8,199,000. Earnings on these cash and cash equivalents would increase or decrease by approximately $20,500 per annum for each 0.25% change in interest rates.

Marketable securities

We have invested our marketable securities in intermediate term, fixed rate, highly rated and highly liquid instruments. These investments are subject to fluctuations in interest rates. As of September 23, 2007, the market value of Nathans’ marketable securities aggregated $23,537,000. Interest income on these marketable securities would increase or decrease by approximately $58,800 per annum for each 0.25% change in interest rates. The following chart presents the hypothetical changes in the fair value of the marketable investment securities held at September 23, 2007 that are sensitive to interest rate fluctuations (in thousands):
 
   
Valuation of securities
     
Valuation of securities
 
   
Given an interest rate
     
Given an interest rate
 
   
Decrease of X Basis points
 
Fair
 
Increase of X Basis points
 
   
(150BPS)
 
(100BPS)
 
(50BPS)
 
Value
 
+50BPS
 
+100BPS
 
+150BPS
 
                               
Municipal notes and bonds
 
$
24,794
 
$
24,366
 
$
23,948
 
$
23,537
 
$
23,133
 
$
22,733
 
$
22,340
 
 
Borrowings

At September 23, 2007, Nathan’s had no outstanding borrowings. In the event Nathan’s were to borrow money under its credit line, the interest rate payable on borrowings would be subject to market fluctuation as the prime rate changes. We would not anticipate entering into interest rate swaps or other financial instruments to hedge our borrowings. We maintain a $7,500,000 credit line at the prime rate (7.75% as of September 23, 2007). We have never borrowed any funds under this credit line. Since no borrowings are outstanding presently, fluctuations in interest rates would not have a material impact on our financial results.

Commodity Costs

The cost of commodities is subject to market fluctuation. We have not attempted to hedge against fluctuations in the prices of the commodities we purchase using future, forward, option or other instruments. As a result, our future commodities purchases are subject to changes in the prices of such commodities. Generally, we attempt to pass through permanent increases in our commodity prices to our customers, thereby reducing the impact of long-term increases on our financial results. A short term increase or decrease of 10.0% in the cost of our food and paper products for the twenty-six weeks ended September 23, 2007 would have increased or decreased our cost of sales by approximately $1,197,000.

Foreign Currencies

Foreign franchisees generally conduct business with us and make payments in United States dollars, reducing the risks inherent with changes in the values of foreign currencies. As a result, we have not purchased future contracts, options or other instruments to hedge against changes in values of foreign currencies and we do not believe fluctuations in the value of foreign currencies would have a material impact on our financial results.

Item 4T. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation and Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as required by Exchange Act Rule 13a-15.  Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC’s rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.  
 
-21-

Changes in Internal Controls

There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended September 23, 2007 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls

We believe that a control system, no matter how well designed and operated, cannot provide absolute assurance that the objectives of the control system are met, and no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within a company have been detected. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that such controls and procedures are effective at the reasonable assurance level. 

Forward Looking Statements
 
Certain statements contained in this report are forward-looking statements. We generally identify forward-looking statements with the words “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “will,” “should” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements represent our current judgment regarding future events. Although we would not make forward-looking statements unless we believe we have a reasonable basis for doing so, we cannot guarantee their accuracy and actual results may differ materially from those we anticipated due to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which we are not aware and / or cannot control. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the effect on sales over concerns relating to bovine spongiform encephalopathy, BSE, which was first identified in the United States on December 23, 2003; the effect on costs resulting from the availability and cost of gasoline and other petrochemicals; economic, weather, legislative and business conditions; the collectibility of receivables; the availability of suitable restaurant sites on reasonable rental terms; changes in consumer tastes; the ability to continue to attract franchisees; our ability to attract competent restaurant and managerial personnel, and the other risks described under “Risk Factors” under Item 1A of our Form 10-K and this Form 10-Q.

-22-

 
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1: Legal Proceedings
 
We and our subsidiaries are from time to time involved in ordinary and routine litigation. Management presently believes that the ultimate outcome of such ordinary and routine litigation, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, cash flows or results of operations. Nevertheless, litigation is subject to inherent uncertainties and unfavorable rulings could occur. An unfavorable ruling could include money damages and, in such event, could result in a material adverse impact on our results of operations for the period in which the ruling occurs.

On March 20, 2007, a personal injury lawsuit was initiated seeking unspecified damages against the Company's subtenant and the Company's master landlord at a leased property in Huntington, New York.  The claim relates to damages suffered by an individual as a result of an alleged "trip and fall" on the sidewalk in front of the leased property, maintenance of which is the subtenant's responsibility.  Although the Company was not named as a defendant in the lawsuit, under its master lease agreement the Company may have an obligation to indemnify the master landlord in connection with this claim.  The Company did not maintain its own insurance on the property concerned at the time of the incident; however, the Company is named as an additional insured under its subtenant's liability policy.  Accordingly, if the master landlord is found liable for damages and seeks indemnity from the Company, the Company believes that it would be entitled to coverage under the subtenant's insurance policy.  Additionally, under the terms of the sublease, the subtenant is required to indemnify the Company, regardless of insurance coverage.

The Company is party to a License Agreement with SMG, Inc. ("SMG") dated as of February 28, 1994, as amended (the "License Agreement") pursuant to which SMG acts as: (i) the Company’s exclusive licensee for the manufacture, distribution, marketing and sale of packaged Nathan’s Famous frankfurter product at supermarkets, club stores and other retail outlets in the United States; and (ii) the Company’s primary supplier of frankfurters for the Company’s Nathan’s Famous restaurant system and Branded Products Program. On July 31, 2007, the Company provided notice to SMG that the Company has elected to terminate the License Agreement, effective July 31, 2008 (the “Termination Date”), due to SMG's breach of certain provisions of the License Agreement. SMG has disputed that a breach has occurred. As a result of this dispute, the Company and SMG each commenced separate actions against the other. The Company's action was filed in New York State court and seeks a declaratory judgment that SMG has breached the License Agreement and that the Company has properly terminated the License Agreement. SMG's action was filed in state court in Illinois and seeks a declaratory judgment that SMG did not breach the License Agreement and that the Company may not terminate the License Agreement. At the present time, the New York court is considering SMG’s motion to dismiss Nathan’s case on forum non conveniens and other grounds. Nathan’s has not yet responded to SMG’s complaint in Illinois.
 
Item 1A: Risk Factors
 
 In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the factors described below, as well as those discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 25, 2007, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or future results. The risks described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K are not the only risks facing Nathan's. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.
 
Any perceived or real health risks related to the food industry could adversely affect our ability to sell our products.
 
We are subject to risks affecting the food industry generally, including risks posed by the following:

·
food spoilage or food contamination,

·
consumer product liability claims,

·
product tampering, and

·
the potential cost and disruption of a product recall.

Our products are susceptible to contamination by disease producing organisms, or pathogens, such as listeria monocytogenes, salmonella, campylobacter, hepatitis A, trichinosis and generic E. coli. Because these pathogens are generally found in the environment, there is a risk that these pathogens could be introduced to our products as a result of improper handling at the manufacturing, processing, foodservice or consumer level. Our suppliers’ manufacturing facilities and products, as well as our franchisee and company-operated restaurant operations, are subject to extensive laws and regulations relating to health, food preparation, sanitation and safety standards. However, we cannot assure you that compliance with governmental regulations by our suppliers or in connection with restaurant operations will eliminate the risks related to food safety. In addition, our beef products are also subject to the risk of contamination from bovine spongiform encephalopathy.

Adverse publicity concerning any perceived or real health risk associated with our products could cause customers to lose confidence in the safety and quality of our food products, which could adversely affect our ability to sell our products. We could also be adversely affected by perceived or real health risks associated with similar products produced by others to the extent such risks cause customers to lose confidence in the safety and quality of such products generally.
 
-23-

 
Additionally, the Company may be subject to liability if the consumption of any of its products causes injury, illness, or death. A significant product liability judgment or a widespread product recall may negatively impact the Company's sales and profitability for a period of time depending on product availability, competitive reaction, and consumer attitudes. Even if a product liability claim is unsuccessful or is not fully pursued, the negative publicity surrounding any assertion that Company products caused illness or injury could adversely affect the Company's reputation with existing and potential customers and its corporate and brand image. Injury to Nathan’s or a brand’s reputation would likely reduce revenue and profits.

Increases in the cost of food and paper products could harm our profitability and operating results.

The cost of the food and paper products we use depends on a variety of factors, many of which are beyond our control. We purchase large quantities of beef and our beef costs in the United States represent approximately 80% to 85% of our food costs. The market for beef is particularly volatile and is subject to significant price fluctuations due to seasonal shifts, climate conditions, industry demand and other factors beyond our control. For example, in the past, reduced supply and increased demand in beef resulted in shortages, which required us to pay significantly higher prices for the beef we purchased. We were unable to pass all of the price increases to our customers. As the price of beef or other food products that we use in our operations increase significantly, particularly in the Branded Product Program, and we choose not to pass, or cannot pass, these increases on to our customers, our operating margins would decrease. Food and paper products typically represent approximately 25% to 30% of our cost of restaurant sales.

Fluctuations in weather, supply and demand and economic conditions could adversely affect the cost, availability and quality of some of our critical products, including beef. Our inability to obtain requisite quantities of high-quality ingredients would adversely affect our ability to provide the menu items that are central to our business, and the highly competitive nature of our industry may limit our ability to pass through increased costs to our customers. Continuing increases in the cost of fuel would increase the distribution costs of our prime products thereby increasing the food and paper cost to us and to our franchisees, thus negatively affecting profitability.

Nathan’s does not have the ability to effectively hedge its beef purchases using futures or forward contracts without incurring undue financial risk.

The loss of our key supplier could lead to supply disruptions, increased costs and lower operating results.

The Company is currently engaged in litigation with SMG, the Company's primary supplier of frankfurters for each of the Company's major business segments. The Company expects that such litigation will result in the Termination of the License Agreement on the Termination Date of July 31, 2008. In anticipation of such termination, the Company is seeking one or more alternative sources of supply to commence immediately following the Termination Date (or sooner if necessary); however, the termination of SMG presents a number of risks to the Company and its operations.

Although the Company believes that SMG is contractually obligated to perform its obligations under the License Agreement until the Termination Date and the Company expects SMG to continue to discharge those obligations, there is no assurance that SMG will do so. In the event that prior to the Termination Date, SMG breaches its contractual obligation by failing or refusing to manufacture and supply frankfurters for the Company's restaurant and Branded Product Program operations or to manufacture, distribute, market and sell Nathan 's Famous frankfurters to the retail trade, there is no assurance that the Company could secure an alternate source of supply in a timely manner. In the event that the Company is unable to find one or more alternative suppliers on a timely basis, there could be a disruption in the supply of product to Company's owned and franchised restaurants and Branded Product accounts, which would damage the Company, its franchisees and Branded Product customers and, in turn, negatively impact the Company's financial results. In addition, any gap in supply to retail customers would result in lost royalty payments to the Company, which could have a significant adverse financial impact on the Company's results from operations. Furthermore, any gap in supply to retail customers may damage the Nathan's Famous trademarks in the eyes of consumers and the retail trade, which damage might negatively impact the Company's overall business in general and impair the Company's ability to continue its retail licensing program.

Additionally, once secured, there is no assurance that any alternate sources of supply would be capable of meeting the Company's specifications and quality standards on a timely and consistent basis or that the financial terms of such supply arrangement will be as favorable as the Company's present terms with SMG.

Any of the foregoing occurrences may cause disruptions in supply of the Company's frankfurter products, damage the Company's franchisees and Branded Product customers, adversely impact the Company's financial results and/or damage the Nathan's Famous trademarks.
-24-

Item 2: Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds:
 
(c)
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
 
 
               
(d) Maximum 
 
           
(c) Total
 
Number of
 
           
 Number of 
 
 Shares 
 
             
Shares
 
that May
 
   
(a) Total
      
 Purchased as 
 
 Yet Be 
 
   
 Number of 
 
(b) Average
 
Part of Publicly 
 
Purchased
 
 
 
Shares
 
 Price 
 
Announced
 
 Under the 
 
Period
 
 Purchased 
 
Paid per Share 
 
 Plans 
 
Plan 
 
June 25, 2007
                     
July 22, 2007
   
13,246
 
$
16.5191
   
1,904,346
   
95,654
 
                           
July 23, 2007
                         
Aug. 19, 2007
   
95,654
 
$
17.8627
   
2,000,000
   
-0-
 
                           
Aug. 20, 2007
                         
Sept. 23,2007
   
-0-
 
$
0.0000
   
2,000,000
   
-0-
 
                           
Total
   
108,900
 
$
17.6691
   
2,000,000
   
-0-
 

On September 14, 2001, Nathan’s was authorized to purchase up to 1,000,000 shares of its common stock. Pursuant to its stock repurchase program, we repurchased 1,000,000 shares of common stock in open market transactions and a private transaction at a total cost of $3,670,000 through the quarter ended September 29, 2002. On October 7, 2002, Nathan’s was authorized to purchase up to 1,000,000 additional shares of its common stock. Through September 23, 2007, Nathan’s concluded the purchase of 1,000,000 shares of common stock at a cost of approximately $5,416,000. To date, Nathan’s has purchased a total of 2,000,000 shares of common stock at a cost of approximately $9,086,000.
 
Item 4: Submission of Matter to a Vote of Security Holders  

(a)
The Company held its Annual Meeting of Stockholders on September 12, 2007.

(b)
Nine Directors were elected at the Annual Meeting to serve until the Annual Meeting of Stockholders in 2008. The names of these Directors and votes cast in favor of their election and shares withheld are as follows:
 
 
 
FOR 
 
WITHHELD 
 
HOWARD M. LORBER
   
4,764,814
   
724,710
 
WAYNE NORBITZ
   
4,908,411
   
581,113
 
ROBERT J. EIDE
   
4,765,687
   
723,837
 
ERIC GATOFF
   
4,908,573
   
580,951
 
BRIAN S. GENSON
   
4,912,925
   
576,599
 
BARRY LEISTNER
   
4,915,000
   
574,524
 
DONALD L. PERLYN
   
4,908,466
   
581,058
 
A.F. PETROCELLI
   
4,769,303
   
720,221
 
CHARLES RAICH
   
4,765,530
   
723,994
 
 
(c)
The stockholders were asked to vote on the ratification of the appointment of Grant Thornton, LLP as the auditors forthe Company for the fiscal year ending March 30, 2008.

The proposal was approved as follows:

FOR
 
AGAINST
 
ABSTAIN
5,435,298
 
32,174
 
22,051
 
The stockholders were asked to vote on the approval of an amendment to the Nathan’s Famous, Inc. 2001 Stock Option Plan.
 
-25-

 
The proposal was approved as follows:

FOR
 
AGAINST
 
ABSTAIN
3,511,680
 
501,083
 
14,746
 
(d)
Not applicable.
 
Item 5: Other Information
 
(a)
Information required to be reported on Form 8-K 
 
Item 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition - On November 5, 2007, Nathan's reported its financial results for the thirteen and twenty-six week fiscal periods ended September 23, 2007, which information is fully disclosed herein.
 
Item 8.01 Other Information - On November 5, 2007, Nathan's Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to an additional 500,000 shares of its common stock on behalf of the Company. Purchases will be made from time to time, depending on market conditions, in open market or privately negotiated transactions, at prices deemed appropriate by management. There is no set time limit on the repurchases, On September 5, 2007, the Company completed its immediately preceding stock acquisition program covering 1,000,000 shares. To date, Nathan's has acquired an aggregate 2,000,000 shares of its common stock at a cost of $9,158,000.

Item 1.01 Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement - On November 6, 2007, Nathan’s entered into an Employment Agreement with Donald Perlyn, an Executive Vice President and Director, effective May 31, 2007. The Employment Agreement is on the same terms as his prior agreement with Miami Subs Corporation. Pursuant to the Agreement, Mr. Perlyn is employed for a term expiring on September 30, 2008, he is entitled to receive annual base compensation of $210,000, and certain other benefits, including participation in our executive bonus program. The term of the agreement automatically extends for successive one year periods unless 180 days prior written notice is delivered by one party to the other. In the event that notice of non-extension is delivered, Mr. Perlyn is entitled to be paid an amount equal to his base salary as then in effect. The agreement also provides, among other things, that if Mr. Perlyn is terminated without cause, we will pay Mr. Perlyn an amount equal to three times his base salary as in effect at the time of his termination. The agreement provides that Mr. Perlyn shall have the right, exercisable for a thirty-day period, to terminate the agreement and receive an amount equal to three times his base salary, together with a pro rata portion of his bonus, for the most recent fiscal year, in the event of a change in control of Nathan’s.
 
Item 6: Exhibits

 (a) Exhibits
 
3.1
 
Certificate of Incorporation. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 No. 33- 56976.)
     
3.2
 
Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation, filed December 15, 1992. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 No. 33-56976.)
     
3.3
 
By-Laws, as amended. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 to Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 25, 2006.)
   
4.1
 
Specimen Stock Certificate. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 No. 33-56976.)
   
4.2
 
Specimen Rights Certificate (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to Form 8-A/A dated December 10, 1999.)
   
4.3
 
Third Amended and Restated Rights Agreement dated as of December 10, 1999 between Nathan’s Famous, Inc. and American Stock Transfer and Trust Company (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to Registration Statement on Form 8-A/A dated December 10, 1999.)
     
4.4
 
Amendment No. 1 to Third Amended and Restated Rights Agreement dated as of June 15, 2005 between Nathan’s Famous, Inc. and American Stock Transfer and Trust Company. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Current Report filed on Form 8-K dated June 15, 2005.)
     
10.1   Employment Agreement with Donald L. Perlyn dated as of November 6, 2007.
     
31.1
 
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
31.2
 
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
32.1
 
Certification by Eric Gatoff, CEO, Nathan’s Famous, Inc., pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
32.2
 
Certification by Ronald G. DeVos, CFO, Nathan’s Famous, Inc., pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
-26-


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements 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.
     
 
NATHAN'S FAMOUS, INC.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date: November 6, 2007 By:   /s/ Eric Gatoff
 
Eric Gatoff
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
(Principal Executive Officer)

     
Date: November 6, 2007
By:   /s/ Ronald G. DeVos
 
Ronald G. DeVos
Vice President - Finance
and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) 
 
-27-

 
Exhibit Index
 
3.1
Certificate of Incorporation. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 No. 33- 56976.)
   
3.2
Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation, filed December 15, 1992. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 No. 33-56976.)
   
3.3
By-Laws, as amended. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 to Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 25, 2006.)
   
4.1
Specimen Stock Certificate. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 No. 33-56976.)
   
4.2
Specimen Rights Certificate (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to Form 8-A/A dated December 10, 1999.)
   
4.3
Third Amended and Restated Rights Agreement dated as of December 10, 1999 between Nathan’s Famous, Inc. and American Stock Transfer and Trust Company (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to Registration Statement on Form 8-A/A dated December 10, 1999.)
   
4.4
Amendment No. 1 to Third Amended and Restated Rights Agreement dated as of June 15, 2005 between Nathan’s Famous, Inc. and American Stock Transfer and Trust Company. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Current Report filed on Form 8-K dated June 15, 2005.)
   
10.1 Employment Agreement with Donald L. Perlyn dated as of November 6, 2007.
   
31.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
31.2
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
32.1
Certification by Eric Gatoff, CEO, Nathan’s Famous, Inc., pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
32.2
Certification by Ronald G. DeVos, CFO, Nathan’s Famous, Inc., pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
-28-