Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended May 7, 2008
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

 

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended May 7, 2008

or

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Transition Period From              to             

Commission file number 001-08308

 

 

Luby’s, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Delaware   74-1335253

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(IRS Employer

Identification Number)

13111 Northwest Freeway, Suite 600

Houston, Texas 77040

(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

(713) 329-6800

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

 

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  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

  Large accelerated filer  ¨   Accelerated filer  x  
  Non-accelerated filer  ¨   Smaller reporting company  ¨  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes  ¨    No  x

As of June 9, 2008, there were 27,929,854 shares of the registrant’s common stock outstanding.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

Luby’s, Inc.

Form 10-Q

Quarter Ended May 7, 2008

Table of Contents

 

          Page

Part I - Financial Information

  

Item 1

   Financial Statements    3

Item 2

   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    17

Item 3

   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk    27

Item 4

   Controls and Procedures    27

Part II - Other Information

  

Item 1

   Legal Proceedings    28

Item 2

   Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds    28

Item 6

   Exhibits    28

Signatures

   29

Additional Information

Our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports are available free of charge via hyperlink on our website at www.lubys.com. We make these reports available as soon as reasonably practicable upon filing with the SEC. Information on our website is not incorporated into this report.

 

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Table of Contents

Part I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

Luby’s, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In thousands, except share data)

 

     May 7,
2008
    August 29,
2007
 
     (Unaudited)        

ASSETS

  

Current Assets:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 11,728     $ 17,514  

Short-term investments

     5,150       8,600  

Trade accounts and other receivables, net

     1,687       1,657  

Food and supply inventories

     2,887       2,574  

Prepaid expenses

     834       1,398  

Deferred income taxes

     712       624  
                

Total current assets

     22,998       32,367  

Property and equipment, net

     191,377       185,983  

Property held for sale

     5,411       736  

Long-term investments

     9,099       —    

Other assets

     438       548  
                

Total assets

   $ 229,323     $ 219,634  
                

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

    

Current Liabilities:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 14,926     $ 12,882  

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     17,018       21,400  
                

Total current liabilities

     31,944       34,282  

Other liabilities

     6,504       7,088  
                

Total liabilities

     38,448       41,370  
                

Commitments and contingencies

    

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

    

Common stock, $0.32 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; Shares issued were 28,429,854 and 27,835, 901, respectively; Shares outstanding were 27,929,854 and 26,159,498, respectively

     9,098       8,907  

Paid-in capital

     19,995       43,514  

Retained earnings

     166,958       161,447  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

     (401 )     —    

Less cost of treasury stock, 500,000 and 1,676,403 shares, respectively

     (4,775 )     (35,604 )
                

Total shareholders’ equity

     190,875       178,264  
                

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 229,323     $ 219,634  
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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Luby’s, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Operations (unaudited)

(In thousands except per share data)

 

     Quarter Ended     Three Quarters Ended  
     May 7,
2008
    May 9,
2007
    May 7,
2008
    May 9,
2007
 
     (84 days)     (84 days)     (252 days)     (252 days)  

SALES:

        

Restaurant sales

   $ 72,753     $ 75,836     $ 215,360     $ 221,596  

Culinary contract services

     1,843       363       5,239       489  
                                

TOTAL SALES

     74,596       76,199       220,599       222,085  

COSTS AND EXPENSES:

        

Cost of food

     19,965       20,208       59,560       59,547  

Payroll and related costs

     25,322       25,396       74,256       74,999  

Other operating expenses

     17,125       15,921       48,458       49,071  

Opening costs

     190       —         212       —    

Cost of culinary contract services

     1,582       395       4,660       561  

Depreciation and amortization

     4,088       3,698       12,058       10,853  

General and administrative expenses

     5,711       5,320       18,568       15,344  

Provision for (reversal of) asset impairments

     —         15       717       205  

Net loss on disposition of property and equipment

     114       57       209       551  
                                

Total costs and expenses

     74,097       71,010       218,698       211,131  
                                

INCOME FROM OPERATIONS

     499       5,189       1,901       10,954  

Interest income

     231       281       904       693  

Interest expense

     (58 )     (191 )     (158 )     (582 )

Interest related to income taxes

     —         —         1,319       —    

Other income, net

     308       198       720       607  
                                

Income before income taxes and discontinued operations

     980       5,477       4,686       11,672  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

     (27 )     1,579       (1,435 )     3,789  
                                

Income from continuing operations

     1,007       3,898       6,121       7,883  

Discontinued operations, net of income taxes

     (58 )     21       (116 )     (168 )
                                

NET INCOME

   $ 949     $ 3,919     $ 6,005     $ 7,715  
                                

Income per share from continuing operations:

        

Basic

   $ 0.03     $ 0.15     $ 0.22     $ 0.31  

Assuming dilution

     0.03       0.14       0.21       0.29  
                                

Loss per share from discontinued operations:

        

Basic

   $ —       $ —       $ —       $ (0.01 )

Assuming dilution

     —         —         —         (0.01 )
                                

Net income per share:

        

Basic

   $ 0.03     $ 0.15     $ 0.22     $ 0.30  

Assuming dilution

     0.03       0.14       0.21       0.28  
                                

Weighted average shares outstanding:

        

Basic

     27,925       26,132       27,739       26,104  

Assuming dilution

     28,042       27,173       28,074       27,171  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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Luby’s, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

     Quarter Ended    Three Quarters Ended
     May 7,
2008
    May 9,
2007
   May 7,
2008
    May 9,
2007
     (84 days)     (84 days)    (252 days)     (252 days)

Net income

   $ 949     $ 3,919    $ 6,005     $ 7,715

Net unrealized loss on securities

     (401 )     —        (401 )     —  
                             

Comprehensive income

   $ 548     $ 3,919    $ 5,604     $ 7,715
                             

 

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Luby’s, Inc.

Consolidated Statement of Shareholders’ Equity (unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

     Common Stock     Paid-In
Capital
    Retained
Earnings
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
    Total
Shareholders’
Equity
 
     Issued    Treasury          
     Shares    Amount    Shares     Amount          

BALANCE AT AUGUST 29, 2007

   27,836    $ 8,907    (1,676 )   $ (35,604 )   $ 43,514     $ 161,447       $ 178,264  

Cumulative effect of adoption of FASB Interpretation No. 48

   —        —      —         —         —         (494 )       (494 )

Net income

   —        —      —         —         —         6,005         6,005  

Other comprehensive loss

   —        —      —         —         —         —         (401 )     (401 )

Common stock issued under nonemployee director benefit plans

   18      6    —         —         163       —           169  

Common stock issued under employee benefit plans

   576      185    1,676       35,604       (24,546 )     —           11,243  

Share-based compensation expense

   —        —      —         —         864       —           864  

Purchase of treasury stock

   —        —      (500 )     (4,775 )     —         —           (4,775 )
                                                          

BALANCE AT MAY 7, 2008

   28,430    $ 9,098    (500 )   $ (4,775 )   $ 19,995     $ 166,958     $ (401 )   $ 190,875  
                                                          

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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Luby’s, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

     Three Quarters Ended  
     May 7,
2008
    May 9,
2007
 
     (252 days)     (252 days)  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

    

Net income

   $ 6,005     $ 7,715  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

    

Provision for (reversal of) asset impairments, net of gains and losses on property sales

     926       648  

Depreciation and amortization

     12,058       10,853  

Amortization of debt issuance cost

     61       322  

Non-cash compensation expense

     169       165  

Share-based compensation expense

     864       664  

Interest related to income taxes

     (1,319 )     —    

Deferred tax provision

     1,400       3,240  
                

Cash provided by operating activities before changes in operating assets and liabilities

     20,164       23,607  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

    

Decrease in trade accounts and other receivables

     162       1,101  

Increase in food and supply inventories

     (313 )     (100 )

(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets

     613       (351 )

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

     (3,833 )     687  
                

Net cash provided by operating activities

     16,793       24,944  
                

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

    

Proceeds from redemption or maturity of short-term investments

     19,600       9,500  

Purchases of short-term investments

     (25,650 )     (31,877 )

Proceeds from disposal of assets

     2,353       1,743  

Purchases of property and equipment

     (25,350 )     (11,388 )
                

Net cash used in investing activities

     (29,047 )     (32,022 )
                

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

    

Proceeds received on exercise of stock options

     11,243       530  

Purchase of treasury stock

     (4,775 )     —    
                

Net cash provided by financing activities

     6,468       530  
                

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

     (5,786 )     (6,548 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     17,514       9,715  
                

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 11,728     $ 3,167  
                

Cash paid for:

    

Income taxes

   $ 1,602     $ 229  

Interest

     87       113  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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Luby’s, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

May 7, 2008

Note 1. Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Luby’s, Inc. (the “Company” or “Luby’s”) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements as they are prepared for the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for the period ended May 7, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending August 27, 2008.

The consolidated balance sheet dated August 29, 2007, included in this Form 10-Q, has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements at that date. However, this Form 10-Q does not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for an annual filing of complete financial statements. Therefore, these financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and footnotes included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 29, 2007.

Certain accounts and prior period results have been reclassified to provide more meaningful comparability to the Company’s current presentation. Culinary contract service revenue and operating expenses have been presented on a gross basis for fiscal years 2008 and 2007.

Note 2. Accounting Periods

The Company’s fiscal year ends on the last Wednesday in August. As such, each fiscal year normally consists of 13 four-week periods, accounting for 364 days. Each of the first three quarters of each fiscal year consists of three four-week periods, while the fourth quarter normally consists of four four-week periods. Comparability between accounting periods may be affected by varying lengths of the periods, as well as the seasonality associated with the restaurant business.

Note 3. Investments

Short-term Investments

Short-term investments include securities of two types: (1) securities held-to-maturity are reported at amortized cost and (2) available-for-sale securities reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported in shareholders’ equity. The fair value of the available-for-sale securities equaled their acquisition cost. No unrealized gains or losses were recognized on these investments during the quarters ended May 7, 2008 and May 9, 2007. As of August 29, 2007, the Company held $2.0 million in held-to-maturity securities and $6.6 million in available-for-sale securities. As of May 7, 2008, the Company held $5.2 million in available-for-sale securities that were subsequently sold at par value plus accrued interest.

Long-term Investments

As of May 7, 2008, the Company held $9.5 million, par value ($9.1 million, fair value) in auction rate municipal bonds as long-term investments. The adjustment to fair value is unrealized and was recorded in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 based on the auction rate market’s continued illiquidity and a valuation of the securities. The unrealized $0.4 million loss is recorded in the Company’s balance sheet as accumulated other comprehensive loss within shareholders’ equity.

The auction rate municipal securities are long-term debt obligations that are secured by certain revenue streams (airport, sewer, hospital, etc.). These auction rate securities are rated AAA, which takes into account credit support through insurance policies guaranteeing each of the bonds payment of principal and accrued interest, as scheduled, if the issuer is unable to service the debt. Interest income on these securities will continue to accrue at a designated benchmark rate plus a premium. At each of the resets between February 12, 2008 and May 7, 2008, the Company received all accrued interest due.

From February 12, 2008, to May 7, 2008, all of the Company’s auction rate municipal securities had sale orders; however, all but one of the auctions failed. During the third fiscal quarter, the Company successfully sold one of the bonds at its par value of $3.0 million plus accrued interest.

 

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These municipal bonds have underlying maturity dates ranging from June 1, 2019 through February 1, 2042 and taxable equivalent yield rates ranging from 5.65% to 10.60%. Historically, the auction process allowed investors to obtain immediate liquidity by selling the securities at their face amounts. Liquidity for these securities was historically provided by entering sales orders through a Dutch-auction process that resets interest rates on these investments every 7, 28 or 35 days. However, as has been recently reported in the financial press, the current disruptions in the credit markets have adversely affected the auction market for these types of securities.

The Company intends to hold the investments until liquidity returns to the auction rate securities market or the bonds are called or refunded by the issuer. The Company has recorded these available-for-sale securities as long-term investments and recorded an unrealized loss on securities in other comprehensive loss because auctions have predominantly failed during the quarter as a result of the auction rate market’s continued illiquidity.

Other comprehensive income includes unrealized losses on investments that are not included in net income, but rather are recorded directly in shareholders’ equity. The Company had a $0.4 million unrealized loss on its auction rate securities as of May 7, 2008. Because the Company has the ability and intent to hold these investments until a recovery of fair value, which may be maturity, the Company does not consider the investment to be other-than-temporarily impaired at May 7, 2008.

The impairment of the auction rate securities creates a deferred income tax asset of approximately $140,000 that is fully reduced by a valuation allowance. The valuation allowance is necessary because the Company does not have other capital gains to offset in order to realize the tax benefit of the impairment. The deferred tax asset and corresponding valuation allowance are included in shareholders’ equity. Subsequent release of this valuation allowance will not have an effect on our consolidated statement of operations.

Note 4. Income Taxes

For the three quarters ended May 7, 2008, including both continuing and discontinued operations, the Company generated gross taxable income of approximately $9.6 million. Cash payments for estimated income taxes of $1.6 million were made during the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008.

The net income tax benefit for the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 includes a reversal of tax accruals in the first quarter for contingencies that did not materialize following the completion of tax audits. Also included is an income tax refund received from the IRS in the second quarter fiscal year 2008 resulting from the conclusion of a tax audit. Additionally, the net benefit reflects the reversal of unrealized deferred tax assets related to stock options and restricted stock. The net benefit was increased in the third quarter for additional credits and deductions included on the Company’s federal income tax return filed shortly after the end of the quarter. The total nonrecurring benefit credited to income tax expense through the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 is approximately $3.1 million.

Effective August 30, 2007, the Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48 (“FIN 48”), “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes.” In connection with the adoption of FIN 48, the Company recognized an increase of approximately $0.5 million to the Company’s tax reserves for uncertain positions, which was accounted for as a reduction to retained earnings on August 30, 2007. We anticipate that it is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits with respect to our uncertain tax positions could increase or decrease during the twelve months following adoption. There were no material changes in unrecognized benefits for the period ended May 7, 2008. However, based on our tax return filing activity that will occur in the fourth quarter, we expect to have a reduction in the unrecognized tax benefits but have not yet quantified the total amount of the reduction.

The Company’s federal income tax returns have been periodically reviewed by the Internal Revenue Service. In August 2006, the Company settled an IRS audit of the 2003 fiscal year and agreed to a partial reduction of the loss claimed on the federal income tax return for the year. The result of the audit was a reduction of the cumulative net operating losses carried forward that were fully utilized in fiscal year 2007.

The IRS has also reviewed the Company’s federal income tax returns for fiscal years 2002, 2001, and 2000. The IRS originally proposed adjustments to deductions claimed on the returns, but an appeal of the IRS adjustments was resolved in the Company’s favor in the first quarter of fiscal year 2008. The Company received written notice from the Congressional Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) during the Company’s first quarter of fiscal year 2008 indicating that they completed their review of the Company’s case in the Company’s favor.

 

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In the first quarter of fiscal year 2008, as a result of the JCT’s review taking no exception to the conclusions presented in the Company’s appeal, the Company derecognized, or, in other words, reversed the contingent tax liability previously reported in current accrued expenses and other liabilities. The accrued interest portion of this liability was recorded as interest related to income taxes, with the non-interest portion of the liability recorded as an income tax benefit in the accompanying statement of operations. In addition, the Company’s appeal provided for an income tax refund, which the Company recorded as an income tax benefit, with the interest receivable portion recorded as interest related to income taxes in the accompanying statement of operations. Interest related to income taxes presented as a separate line in the accompanying statement of operations of $1.9 million included $1.1 million in reversal of accrued interest previously accrued for the contingent tax liability, and $0.8 million for the interest related to the income tax refund. Provision (benefit) for income taxes included $2.8 million recognized for the net benefit for income taxes related to $3.4 million for the reversal of the non-interest portion of the contingent tax liability, and $0.9 million for the income tax refund, offset by unrealized deferred tax assets of $1.5 million related to stock options and restricted stock.

The Company operates in five states and is subject to state and local income taxes in addition to federal income taxes. The Company is not currently under review by any state agency for any open period. The results of the conclusion of the most recent IRS audit must be communicated to the states in which the Company operates, but the Company does not expect such results to have a negative impact on any tax position it has filed in those states.

Management believes that adequate provisions for income taxes have been reflected in the financial statements and is not aware of any significant exposure items that have not been reflected in the financial statements. Amounts considered probable of settlement within one year have been included in the accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

Note 5. Property and Equipment

The cost and accumulated depreciation of property and equipment at May 7, 2008 and August 29, 2007, together with the related estimated useful lives used in computing depreciation and amortization, were as follows:

 

     May 7,
2008
    August 29,
2007
    Estimated
Useful Lives
     (In thousands)      

Land

   $ 52,569     $ 52,829     —  

Restaurant equipment and furnishings

     115,680       109,674     3 to 15 years

Buildings

     180,016       180,990     20 to 33 years

Leasehold and leasehold improvements

     18,559       17,730     Lesser of

lease term or

estimated

useful life

Office furniture and equipment, computer hardware and software

     5,769       4,956     3 to 10 years

Construction in progress

     3,028       752     —  
                  
     375,621       366,931    

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

     (184,244 )     (180,948 )  
                  

Property and equipment, net

   $ 191,377     $ 185,983    
                  

 

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Note 6. Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Property Held for Sale

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Store Closings

The Company periodically evaluates long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. The Company estimates future cash flows expected to result from the use and possible disposition of the asset and will recognize an impairment loss when the sum of the undiscounted estimated future cash flows is less than the carrying amounts of such assets. The estimates of future cash flows, based on reasonable and supportable assumptions and projections, require management’s subjective judgments. The span of time for which future cash flows are estimated is often lengthy, which increases the sensitivity to assumptions made. Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, the estimated future cash flows projected in the evaluation of long-lived assets can vary within a wide range of outcomes. The Company considers the likelihood of possible outcomes in determining the best estimate of future cash flows. The measurement for such an impairment loss is then based on the fair value of the asset as determined by either discounted cash flows or appraisals. With respect to continuing operations, writedowns associated with these impairment analyses, as well as actual exit costs incurred for store closings are reflected in the “Provision for Asset Impairments.”

During the second quarter of fiscal year 2008, the Company closed six underperforming restaurants. An impairment charge of $1.2 million was recorded in the first quarter of fiscal year 2008 in anticipation of the closings based on an estimate of net sales proceeds. One of the six restaurant properties was closed and immediately sold. Four of the restaurant properties are still owned by the Company and are now being actively marketed for sale. The sixth restaurant is a mall location with a lease obligation which continues until January 31, 2010. The Company plans to attempt to accelerate the lease expiration or find another tenant to take over the obligation. After the restaurants were closed, the related assets of the four owned restaurants were reclassified from property and equipment to property held for sale.

Property Held for Sale

As of May 7, 2008, the Company had five owned properties and two ground leases recorded at $5.4 million in property held for sale. The Company is actively marketing the locations currently classified as property held for sale. At August 29, 2007, the Company had one owned property and three ground leases recorded at $0.7 million in property held for sale.

In the first quarter of fiscal year 2008, one of the ground lease properties was reclassified from property held for sale to property and equipment. Management has plans to reopen the location as an operating restaurant utilizing our new prototype design.

In the second quarter of fiscal year 2008, four owned properties were closed and classified as property held for sale. Property held for sale consists of already-closed restaurant properties. Properties held for sale are valued at the lower of net depreciable value or net realizable value.

The Company’s results of discontinued operations will be affected by the disposal of three of the seven properties held for sale to the extent proceeds from property sales exceed or are less than net book value.

Note 7. Commitments and Contingencies

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company has no off-balance sheet structured financing arrangements.

Pending Claims

The Company is subject to private lawsuits, administrative proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of its business. A number of these lawsuits, proceedings and claims may exist at any given time. These matters typically involve claims from guests, employees and others related to issues common to the restaurant industry.

Construction Activity

From time to time, the Company enters into non-cancelable contracts for the construction of its new restaurants. This construction activity exposes the Company to the risks inherent in new construction including but not limited to rising material prices, labor shortages, delays in getting required permits and inspections, adverse weather conditions and injuries sustained by workers.

 

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Note 8. Related Parties

Affiliate Services

The Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Christopher J. Pappas, and Chief Operating Officer, Harris J. Pappas, own two restaurant entities (the “Pappas entities”) that may provide services to the Company and its subsidiaries, as detailed in the Master Sales Agreement dated December 9, 2005 among the Company and the Pappas entities.

Under the terms of the Master Sales Agreement, the Pappas entities may provide specialized (customized) equipment fabrication and basic equipment maintenance, including stainless steel stoves, shelving, rolling carts, and chef tables. The total costs under the Master Sales Agreement of custom-fabricated and refurbished equipment in the first three quarters of each of fiscal years 2008 and 2007 were $0.4 million and zero, respectively. Services provided under this agreement are subject to review and approval by the Finance and Audit Committee.

Operating Leases

The Company leases property from the Pappas entities, currently on a month-to-month basis. The Company anticipates the termination of this lease by August 31, 2008. The leased property, referred to as the Houston Service Center, is used to accommodate the Company’s in-house repair and fabrication center. The Company paid $54,000 in the three quarters of each fiscal year 2008 and 2007, pursuant to the terms of this lease.

The Company previously leased approximately 27,000 square feet of additional warehouse space from the Pappas entities to complement the Houston Service Center, at a monthly rate of approximately $0.21 per square foot. The Company paid $27,800 and $44,000 in the first three quarters of each of fiscal year 2008 and 2007, respectively, pursuant to the terms of this lease. On February 29, 2008, the Company terminated this lease with the Pappas entities.

In the third quarter of fiscal year 2004, Messrs. Pappas became partners in a limited partnership which purchased a retail strip center in Houston, Texas. Messrs. Pappas collectively own a 50% limited partnership interest and a 50% general partnership interest in the limited partnership. A third party company manages the center. One of the Company’s restaurants has rented approximately 7% of the space in that center since July 1969. No changes were made to the Company’s lease terms as a result of the transfer of ownership of the center to the new partnership. The Company made payments of $178,100 and $177,000 in the first three quarters of each fiscal year 2008 and 2007, respectively, under the lease agreement which currently includes an annual base rate of $14.64 per square foot.

On November 22, 2006, the Company executed a new lease agreement with respect to this shopping center. Effective upon the Company’s relocation and occupancy into the new space, which is expected to occur in calendar year 2008, the new lease agreement provides for a primary term of approximately 12 years with two subsequent five-year options and gives the landlord an option to buy out the tenant on or after the calendar year 2015 by paying the then unamortized cost of improvements by the tenant. The Company will owe, under the lease, $16.65 per square foot plus maintenance, taxes, and insurance for the calendar year 2008. Thereafter, the lease provides for reasonable increases in rent at set intervals. The new lease agreement was approved by the Finance and Audit Committee.

 

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Affiliated rents paid for the Houston Service Center, the separate storage facility and the Houston property leases combined represented 7.6% and 8.5% of total rents for continuing operations for the third quarter of each of fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

     Three Quarters Ended  
     May 7,
2008
    May 9,
2007
 
     (252 days)     (252 days)  
     (In thousands, except percentages)  

AFFILIATED COSTS INCURRED:

    

General and administrative expenses – professional and other costs

   $ 114     $ —    

Capital expenditures – custom-fabricated and refurbished equipment and furnishings

     405       —    

Other operating expenses, including property leases

     286       294  
                

Total

   $ 805     $ 294  
                

RELATIVE TOTAL COMPANY COSTS:

    

General and administrative expenses

   $ 18,568     $ 15,344  

Capital expenditures

     25,350       11,388  

Other operating expenses

     48,458       49,071  
                

Total

   $ 92,376     $ 75,803  
                

AFFILIATED COSTS INCURRED AS A PERCENTAGE OF RELATIVE TOTAL COMPANY COSTS

    

Fiscal year to date

     0.87 %     0.39 %
                

Board of Directors

Pursuant to the terms of a separate Purchase Agreement dated March 9, 2001, entered into by and among the Company, Christopher J. Pappas and Harris J. Pappas, the Company agreed to submit three persons designated by Christopher J. Pappas and Harris J. Pappas as nominees for election at the 2002 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Messrs. Pappas designated themselves and Frank Markantonis as their nominees for directors, all of whom were subsequently elected. Christopher J. Pappas and Harris J. Pappas are brothers and Frank Markantonis is an attorney whose principal client is Pappas Restaurants, Inc., an entity owned by Christopher J. Pappas and Harris J. Pappas.

As amended in June 2004, the Purchase Agreement allows Messrs. Pappas to continue to nominate persons for election to the board, which, if such nominees are elected, would result in Messrs. Pappas having nominated three of the then-serving directors of the Company. Messrs. Pappas retain their right for so long as they both are executive officers of the Company.

Christopher J. Pappas is an advisory member of the Board of Directors of Amegy Bank, National Association, which is a lender and syndication agent under the Company’s 2007 Revolving Credit Facility. In addition, the Company had short-term investments of $2.0 million and zero with Amegy Bank at August 29, 2007 and May 7, 2008, respectively.

Key Management Personnel

In November 2005, Christopher and Harris Pappas entered into new employment agreements that were subsequently amended in October 2007 to extend the termination date thereof to August 2009. Both continue to devote their primary time and business efforts to Luby’s while maintaining their roles at Pappas Restaurants, Inc.

Ernest Pekmezaris, the former Chief Financial Officer of the Company, became a consultant to the Company on April 20, 2007. Mr. Pekmezaris is also the Treasurer of Pappas Restaurants, Inc. Compensation for the services provided by Mr. Pekmezaris to Pappas Restaurants, Inc. is paid entirely by that entity.

Peter Tropoli, Senior Vice President, Administration, General Counsel and Secretary of the Company, is an attorney who, in the past, provided litigation services to entities controlled by Christopher J. Pappas and Harris J. Pappas. Mr. Tropoli is the stepson of Frank Markantonis, who is a director of the Company.

Paulette Gerukos, Vice President of Human Resources of the Company, is the sister-in-law of Harris J. Pappas, the Chief Operating Officer.

 

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Note 9. Share-Based Compensation

Stock Options

The Company has an Executive Stock Option Plan as well as Incentive Stock Plans for officers and employees together (“Employee Stock Plans”) and a Non-employee Director Stock Option Plan for non-employee directors. These plans authorize the granting of stock options, restricted stock and other types of awards consistent with the purpose of the plans. All options granted pursuant to the Executive Stock Option Plan have been either exercised or cancelled and the Company does not plan to grant any new options under this plan. The number of shares authorized for issuance under the Company’s plans as of May 7, 2008 totals approximately 2.9 million, of which approximately 1.7 million shares are available for future issuance. Stock options granted under the Incentive Stock Plans and the Non-employee Director Stock Option Plan have an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant.

Option awards under the Executive Stock Option Plan vest 50% on the first anniversary of the grant date, 25% on the second anniversary of the grant date, and the remaining 25% on the third anniversary of the grant date and expire ten years from the grant date. Option awards under the Employee Stock Plans generally vest 25% each year on the anniversary of the grant date and expire six to ten years from the grant date. Option awards under the Non-employee Director Stock Option Plan generally vest 100% on the first anniversary of the grant date and expire ten years from the grant date.

In connection with their entry into employment agreements effective March 9, 2001, Messrs. Pappas together were granted an aggregate of approximately 2.2 million stock options at an exercise price of $5.00 per share, which was below the quoted market price on the date of grant. The Company’s Board of Directors unanimously approved the employment agreements and related stock option grants. Messrs. Pappas exercised these options on October 26, 2007.

A summary of the Company’s stock option activity for the three quarters ended May 7, 2008 is presented in the following table:

 

     Shares Under
Fixed Options
    Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
   Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual Term
   Aggregate Intrinsic
Value
                (Years)    (In thousands)

Outstanding at August 29, 2007

   2,917,477     $ 6.25    3.76    $ 14,756

Granted

   87,095       11.10      

Exercised

   (2,252,100 )     4.99      

Forfeited or Expired

   (41,836 )     9.08      
              

Outstanding at May 7, 2008

   710,636       10.64    4.08      149
              

Exercisable at May 7, 2008

   294,751     $ 10.07    3.62    $ 149
              

 

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Restricted Stock

Restricted stock grants consist of the Company’s common stock and generally vest after three years, with the exception of some grants under the Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan, which vest when granted due to the fact that they are granted in lieu of a cash payment. All restricted stock grants are cliff-vested. Restricted stock awards are valued at the average market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant.

A summary of the Company’s restricted stock activity for the three quarters ended May 7, 2008 is presented in the following table:

 

     Restricted
Stock Units
    Fair Value    Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual Term
   Weighted-Average
Grant Date
           (Per share)    (Years)     

Unvested at August 29, 2007

   40,468     $ 11.05    1.64    6/14/06

Granted

   81,674       9.48    2.08    1/11/08

Vested

   (18,256 )     9.22    —      1/14/08

Forfeited

   (8,696 )     11.10    1.74    2/1/07
              

Unvested at May 7, 2008

   95,190     $ 10.04    2.10    6/11/07
              

Note 10. Earnings Per Share

Basic net income per share is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the reporting period. Diluted net income per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock. For the calculation of diluted net income per share, the basic weighted average number of shares is increased by the dilutive effect of restricted stock, phantom stock, and stock options determined using the treasury stock method. Stock options with exercise prices exceeding current market prices that were excluded from the computation of net income per share amounted to approximately 627,000 shares and 246,000 shares for the quarters ended May 7, 2008 and May 9, 2007, respectively.

The components of basic and diluted net income per share are as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended    Three Quarters Ended
     May 7,
2008
   May 9,
2007
   May 7,
2008
   May 9,
2007
     (84 days)    (84 days)    (252 days)    (252 days)
     (In thousands except share data)

Numerator:

           

Income from continuing operations

   $ 1,007    $ 3,898    $ 6,121    $ 7,883
                           

Net income

   $ 949    $ 3,919    $ 6,005    $ 7,715
                           

Denominator:

           

Denominator for basic earnings per share – weighted-average shares

     27,925      26,132      27,739      26,104

Effect of potentially dilutive securities:

           

Employee and non-employee stock options

     —        971      235      1,001

Phantom stock

     30      30      30      30

Restricted stock

     87      40      70      36
                           

Denominator for earnings per share assuming dilution

     28,042      27,173      28,074      27,171
                           

Income per share from continuing operations:

           

Basic

   $ 0.03    $ 0.15    $ 0.22    $ 0.31

Assuming dilution

   $ 0.03    $ 0.14    $ 0.21    $ 0.29
                           

Net income per share:

           

Basic

   $ 0.03    $ 0.15    $ 0.22    $ 0.30

Assuming dilution

   $ 0.03    $ 0.14    $ 0.21    $ 0.28
                           

 

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Note 11. New Accounting Pronouncements

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”) effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. SFAS 157 enhances the guidance for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities. In addition, SFAS 157 is expanding information about the extent to which companies measure assets and liabilities at fair value, the information used to measure fair value and the effect of fair value measurements on earnings. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact, if any, this standard would have on the Company’s financial results for fiscal year 2009.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities – including an Amendment to FASB Statement No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities”, which permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. The Company will be required to adopt the provisions of this standard for fiscal year 2009, and the Company is currently evaluating the impact, if any, that it will have on its financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), “Business Combinations” (“SFAS 141(R)”), which replaces SFAS 141. SFAS 141(R) requires assets and liabilities acquired in a business combination, contingent consideration, and certain acquired contingencies to be measured at their fair values as of the date of acquisition. SFAS 141(R) also requires that acquisition-related costs and restructuring costs be recognized separately from the business combination. SFAS 141(R) is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008 and will be effective for business combinations entered into after January 1, 2009.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an Amendment of ARB No. 51” (“SFAS 160”). SFAS 160 clarifies the accounting for noncontrolling interests and establishes accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary, including classification as a component of equity. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The Company does not currently have any minority interests.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” (“SFAS 161”). SFAS 161 requires entities to provide enhanced disclosures about derivative instruments and hedging activities. SFAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company does not currently have any derivative instruments or hedging activities.

Note 12. Subsequent Event

Subsequent to May 7, 2008, the Company sold a portion of its auction rate securities at their par value of $5.2 million plus accrued interest. For more information regarding the auction rate securities held by the Company, see Note 3, “Investments.”

 

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

Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and footnotes for the period ended May 7, 2008 included in Item 1 of Part I of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and the audited financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 29, 2007.

Overview

As of May 7, 2008, we operated 123 restaurants located throughout Texas and four other states, as set forth in the table below. These establishments are located in close proximity to retail centers, business developments and residential areas. Of the 123 restaurants, 89 are located on property that we own and 34 are on leased premises.

 

Texas:

  

Houston Metro

   40

Dallas/Fort Worth Metro

   21

San Antonio Metro

   15

Rio Grande Valley

   11

Austin

   7

Other Texas Markets

   23

Other States

   6
    

Total

   123

Our financial results during the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 were negatively impacted by the challenging restaurant operating environment. Over the past five quarters we have experienced a same-store sales decline on average of 2.6%; this decline follows a period of twelve consecutive quarters when we averaged an increase of 4.6% per quarter. Our sales continued to be negatively impacted by softer consumer demand, which has been adversely affected by higher gasoline prices and higher commodity costs for consumers during the quarter.

We remain committed to our strategic growth plan to build new Luby’s cafeteria-style restaurants utilizing the prototype design we introduced in August of 2007, to expand our brand to healthcare and other institutional facilities through the growth of our culinary contract services business and to continue to invest in our restaurants through operational initiatives and facilities upgrades to improve our guests’ dining experience.

During the third quarter, we opened one new restaurant in Port Arthur, Texas and continued construction on a unit we are re-locating in Houston, as well as a new unit being constructed in North Houston.

In the third quarter of fiscal year 2008, we spent $10.6 million on capital expenditures including $2.4 million to upgrade our restaurant facilities, including dining room updates, restroom remodels and the addition of new furniture in many of our restaurants. We remain committed to our operational procedures, policies and initiatives designed to strengthen and grow our business. These programs are focused on customer service, menu innovation, food quality assurance, technological enhancements and staff training and development. The long-term consistent execution of these programs is designed to enhance overall customer satisfaction and increase profitability.

Same-store restaurant sales declined 3.3% for the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the third quarter last year. The negative trend in consumer spending continued in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 causing reduced unit traffic, and was partially offset by higher menu prices and menu mix. Although we continue to experience positive or improving sales trends in certain of our major market locations resulting from higher prices and improved store level execution, sales at many of our locations continue to be challenged.

Third quarter fiscal 2008 expenses were negatively impacted by higher repairs and maintenance expenses, higher utility costs, and higher depreciation expenses.

 

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Administrative expenses also increased as we continued adding team members to support future growth. We have recently added key positions in our development, recruiting, training and culinary departments.

Our culinary business, where we provide food service at healthcare facilities, continued to grow in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the same period in fiscal year 2007. Currently, we provide health care services at nine facilities. We view our culinary business as an area of growth for our brand as we continue to identify and cultivate new opportunities in the healthcare sector.

Our new prototype restaurants continue to perform well and remain on pace in their first year to generate annual revenue in excess of $3.25 million, an increase of 30.0%, compared to the restaurant system average revenue of $2.5 million.

Accounting Periods

Our fiscal year ends on the last Wednesday in August. Accordingly, each fiscal year normally consists of 13 four-week periods, or accounting periods, accounting for 364 days in the aggregate. Each of the first three quarters of each fiscal year consists of three four-week periods, while the fourth quarter normally consists of four four-week periods. Comparability between quarters may be affected by varying lengths of the quarters, as well as the seasonality associated with the restaurant business.

Same-Store Sales

The restaurant business is highly competitive with respect to food quality, concept, location, price, and service, all of which may have an effect on same-store sales. Our same-store sales calculation measures the relative performance of a certain group of restaurants. To qualify for inclusion in this group, a store must have been in operation for 18 consecutive accounting periods. Although management believes this approach leads to more appropriate year-over-year comparisons, neither the time frame nor the exact practice may be similar to those used by other restaurant companies.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

For the Third Quarter and Year-to-Date Fiscal 2008 versus the Third Quarter and Year-to-Date Fiscal 2007

Sales

Total sales decreased approximately $1.6 million, or 2.1%, in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. Restaurant sales declined approximately $3.1 million, due primarily to declines in guest traffic partially offset by higher menu prices and more favorable menu mix. This decline in restaurant sales was offset by an increase of $1.5 million relating to the execution of several new culinary service contracts. Same store sales (which includes 121 stores) decreased by approximately $2.4 million, or 3.3%.

Total sales decreased approximately $1.5 million, or 0.7%, in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same three quarters of fiscal year 2007. Restaurant sales declined approximately $6.2 million, due primarily to declines in guest traffic partially offset by higher menu prices and more favorable menu mix. This decline in restaurant sales was offset by an increase of approximately $4.8 million relating to the execution of several new culinary service contracts. Same store sales decreased by approximately $6.0 million, or 2.8%.

Cost of Food

Food costs decreased approximately $0.2 million, or 1.2%, in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same quarter of fiscal year 2007. Food costs as a percentage of restaurant sales increased 0.8%, to 27.4%, in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from 26.6% in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. Food commodity costs increased in most categories with oils and cheese having the greatest impact on food costs, partially offset by lower produce prices in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to third quarter of fiscal year 2007.

Food costs were relatively flat in the first three quarters of fiscal 2008 compared with the same three quarters of fiscal 2007. Food costs as a percentage of sales increased 0.8% to 27.7% in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 from 26.9% in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007. Food commodity costs increased as a percentage of restaurant sales in most categories with poultry, seafood, oils and grains having the greatest impact on food costs in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared with the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007.

 

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Payroll and Related Costs

Payroll and related costs decreased $0.1 million in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same quarter of fiscal year 2007. Payroll and related costs as a percentage of restaurant sales increased 1.3% to 34. 8%, in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from 33.5% in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007, primarily due to the lower sales level.

Payroll and related costs decreased approximately $0.7 million, or 1.0%, in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same three quarters of fiscal year 2007. Payroll and related costs as a percentage of sales increased 0.7% to 34.5% in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 from 33.8% in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007, primarily due to higher store management and training costs, partially offset by lower workers’ compensation expense, including the effects of reduced actuarial estimates of potential losses resulting from favorable claims experience.

Other Operating Expenses

Other operating expenses primarily include restaurant related expenses for utilities, repairs and maintenance, advertising, insurance, supplies, services and occupancy costs. Other operating expenses increased by approximately $1.2 million, or 7.6%, in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same quarter of fiscal year 2007. As a percentage of restaurant sales, other operating expenses increased to 23.5% in the third quarter fiscal year 2008 from 21.0% in the same quarter last year. Other operating expenses increased primarily due to 1) an approximate $0.6 million increase in repairs and maintenance expenses as we focused efforts on improving the appearance and functionality of our cafeterias for our guests and employees; and 2) an approximate $0.8 million increase in utility expense resulting from higher utility rates.

Other operating expenses decreased by approximately $0.6 million, or 1.2%, in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same three quarters of fiscal year 2007. Other operating expenses decreased primarily due to 1) a reduction of approximately $0.4 million in utility costs due to lower contracted rates; and 2) a reduction of approximately $2.1 million in marketing and advertising costs as we chose to focus our marketing efforts on specific geographical markets and utilized a mix of lower cost marketing mediums. This decrease was partially offset by higher repairs and maintenance expense of approximately $1.6 million as we increased our efforts to further improve the appearance and functionality of our restaurants. As a percentage of sales, other operating expenses increased 0.4% to 22.5% in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 from 22.1% in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007.

Opening Costs

Opening costs were approximately $0.2 million in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008. These costs reflect the labor, supplies, occupancy, and other costs necessary to support the unit through its opening period.

Cost of Culinary Contract Services

Cost of culinary contract services increased by approximately $1.2 million in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the same quarter of the prior fiscal year. This increase was related to the food, labor and other operating expenses associated with the increase in revenue for this line of business.

Cost of culinary contract services increased by approximately $4.1 million in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared to the same three quarters of fiscal year 2007. The increase was related to the food, labor and other operating expenses associated with the increase in revenue for this line of business.

Depreciation and Amortization

Depreciation and amortization expense increased approximately $0.4 million, or 10.6%, in third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared with the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The increase was due to higher depreciation resulting from new restaurant openings and existing unit upgrades and remodels.

Depreciation and amortization increased by approximately $1.2 million in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared to the same three quarters of fiscal year 2007. The increase was due to depreciation resulting from new restaurant and culinary contract services locations, existing unit upgrades and remodels, replacement of restaurant equipment and technology upgrades.

 

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General and Administrative Expenses

General and administrative expenses include corporate salaries and benefits related costs, including restaurant area leaders, share-based compensation, professional fees, travel and recruiting expenses and other office expenses. General and administrative expenses increased by approximately $0.4 million, or 7.3%, in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the same quarter last year. As a percentage of total sales, general and administrative expenses increased to 7.7% in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008, from 7.0% last year. The increase was primarily due to an approximate $0.4 million increase in corporate salary expense related to staffing costs to support the culinary contract services business and other departments to support our strategic growth plan.

General and administrative expenses increased by approximately $3.2 million, or 21.0%, for the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same quarters of the prior fiscal year. The increase is primarily due to 1) an increase of approximately $1.3 million in professional service fees, which included the cost relating to the solicitation of proxies in connection with our 2008 annual meeting of shareholders in the second quarter of fiscal year 2008; 2) an increase of approximately $1.2 million related to higher corporate salary and benefits expense, which included staffing costs supporting our culinary services initiative to provide services at healthcare facilities as well as staffing to support our strategic growth plan; and 3) other general and administrative costs, including recruiting expenses, travel expenses, office supplies, and group insurance costs. As a percentage of total sales, general and administrative expenses increased to 8.4% in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008, from 6.9% in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007.

Asset Charges

There were no impairments reflected in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008. The provision for asset impairments, net, decreased by approximately $15,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared with the third quarter of fiscal year 2007.

The provision for (reversal of) asset impairments increased by approximately $0.5 million in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same three quarters of fiscal year 2007. This increase was due to the write-down of selected underperforming units to net realizable value based on an estimate of net sales proceeds, partially offset by a reversal of a previously recognized impairment related to one ground lease unit which is expected to be reopened in fiscal year 2008. This unit was also reclassified in the first quarter of fiscal year 2008 from property held for sale to property and equipment, net.

The net loss on disposition of property and equipment in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 increased approximately $57,000. The loss is related to replacement of nonrepairable assets and replacement of capitalized costs as part of our ongoing remodel activity.

The net loss on disposition of property and equipment decreased by approximately $0.3 million in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared with the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007. This decrease is primarily related to a gain on the sale of one unit offset by the losses associated with the disposal of restaurant equipment due in part to increased remodel activity.

Interest Income

In the third quarter of fiscal year 2008, interest income decreased by approximately $50,000 due to lower prevailing interest rates in money markets; while interest expense decreased by approximately $0.1 million as a result of the term of our 2007 Revolving Credit Facility.

Interest income for the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 increased by approximately $0.2 million due to increases in cash and cash equivalents available for investment in interest-bearing instruments, while interest expense for the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 decreased by approximately $0.4 million as a result of the term of our 2007 Revolving Credit Facility.

 

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Interest Related to Income Taxes

Interest related to income taxes includes the reversal of previously recognized interest expense associated with the settled tax audit contingencies and the interest portion of an income tax refund. The refund and related interest were received subsequent to the end of the second quarter. For the three quarters ended May 7, 2008, interest related to income taxes was $1.3 million. For additional information, see Note 4, “Income Taxes”, to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 1 of Part I of this report.

Other Income, net

Other income, net, consisted primarily of the following components: net rental property income and expenses, with respect to property for which we are the landlord; prepaid sales tax discounts earned through our participation in state tax prepayment programs, and de-recognition of gift certificate liability resulting from the expiration of state statute of limitations on gift certificate amounts.

Other income, net, increased approximately $0.1 million in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared to the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007.

Taxes

The income tax provision for the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 decreased $1.6 million compared with the third quarter of fiscal year 2007 due to 1) lower pre-tax income recognized for the period and 2) larger-than-expected employment-related tax credits available to us.

The income tax provision for the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 reflects the tax effect of the pre-tax income recognized for the period offset by the income tax benefit reflecting the reversal of tax accruals for contingencies that did not materialize following the completion of tax audits. The fiscal year 2008 provision also reflects the benefit of the difference between estimated and actual tax credits on our federal income tax return filed shortly after the end of the third quarter. The income tax provision for the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007 reflects the tax effect of the pre-tax income recognized for the period.

Discontinued Operations

The loss from discontinued operations decreased $79,000 and $52,000 in the third quarter and the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008, respectively, compared with the same periods of fiscal year 2007.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Cash and Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments

General. Our primary sources of short-term and long-term liquidity are expected to be cash flows from operations and our revolving credit facility.

Our cash requirements consist principally of:

 

 

capital expenditures for new restaurant construction, restaurant renovations and upgrades of our management information systems; and

 

 

working capital.

Based upon current levels of operations and anticipated growth, we expect that cash flows from operations, combined with other financing alternatives in place or available, will be sufficient to meet our capital expenditures and working capital requirements.

As is common in the restaurant industry, we maintain relatively low levels of accounts receivable and inventories, and our vendors grant trade credit for purchases such as food and supplies. We also continually invest in our business through the addition of new units and refurbishment of existing units, which are reflected as long-term assets.

 

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Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments decreased $9.2 million to $16.9 million at May 7, 2008 from $26.1 million at the beginning of the fiscal year. This decrease is primarily due to the change in classification of $9.1 million fair value of auction rate securities from short-term investments to long-term investments. See Note 3, “Investments,” to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 1 of Part I of this report. We generally reinvest available cash flows from operations to develop new restaurants or enhance existing restaurants.

The following table summarizes our cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities:

 

     Three Quarters Ended  
     May 7,
2008
    May 9,
2007
 
     (252 days)     (252 days)  
     (In thousands)  

Total cash provided by (used in):

    

Operating activities

   $ 16,793     $ 24,944  

Investing activities

     (29,047 )     (32,022 )

Financing activities

     6,468       530  
                

Decrease in cash and cash equivalents

   $ (5,786 )   $ (6,548 )
                

Operating Activities. In the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008, operating cash flow decreased $8.2 million to $16.8 million compared with the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007, primarily due to a decline in restaurant sales and increased restaurant and general and administrative expenses.

Investing Activities. Cash flows used in investing activities were $29.0 million in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared with $32.0 million in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007, primarily due to increased purchases of property and equipment, which includes new restaurant construction in progress and decreased purchases of short-term investments. Our capital expenditure program includes, among other things, investments in new locations, restaurant remodeling, and information technology enhancements. We used cash of $25.4 million for purchases of property and equipment in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 compared with $11.4 million in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007. We expect to spend approximately $35.0 million to $40.0 million on capital expenditures in fiscal year 2008.

Financing Activities. Cash provided by financing activities increased $5.9 million to $6.5 million, compared with the first three quarters of fiscal year 2007, due primarily to proceeds from the exercise of stock options offset by the purchase of treasury stock.

Status of Long-Term Investments and Liquidity

At May 7, 2008, we held $5.2 million in auction rate securities as short-term investments. The par value of these securities equaled fair value as of that date. These securities were subsequently sold at par value plus accrued interest.

Status of Long-Term Investments and Liquidity

At May 7, 2008, we held $9.5 million, par value ($9.1 million, fair value) of auction rate securities as long-term investments. Each of these are long-term bonds with underlying maturities in years 2019 through 2042 but have historically had short-term features intended for the investor’s liquidity. These bonds were purchased or sold through a Dutch-auction process in short-term intervals of 7, 28 or 35 days, whereby the interest rate on the security is reset. The prevailing market auction failures resulted in the long-term investments classification and an unrealized loss of $0.4 million. For additional information, see Note 3, “Investments,” to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 1 of Part I of this report.

Given our current cash position, liquid cash equivalents, cash flow from operations and an available $50 million borrowing capacity under our line of credit, we believe the current and near term illiquidity of the auction rate municipal bonds will not adversely affect management’s ability to achieve its operating goals.

Status of Trade Accounts and Other Receivables, Net

We monitor our receivables aging and record provisions for uncollectability as appropriate. As of May 7, 2008, no provision for uncollectable amounts was required. Credit terms of accounts receivable associated with our culinary contract service business vary from 30 to 45 days based on contract terms.

 

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Working Capital

We had a working capital deficit of $8.9 million as of May 7, 2008, compared to a working capital deficit of $1.9 million as of August 29, 2007. We expect to meet our working capital requirements through cash flows from operations and availability under the 2007 Revolving Credit Facility.

Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures consist of purchases of real estate for future restaurant sites, new units under construction, purchases of new and replacement restaurant furniture and equipment, and ongoing remodeling programs. Capital expenditures for the first three quarters of fiscal year 2008 were approximately $25.4 million, and related to maintaining our investment in existing operating units as well as constructing new units. We expect to be able to fund all capital expenditures in fiscal 2008 using cash flows from operations and our available credit. We expect to spend approximately $35.0 million to $40.0 million on capital expenditures in fiscal year 2008.

Stock Purchases

On February 15, 2008, in a privately negotiated block trade, the Company purchased 500,000 shares of common stock for $4.8 million.

DEBT

On July 13, 2007, we entered into a $50.0 million unsecured Revolving Credit Facility (the “2007 Revolving Credit Facility”) with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, and Amegy Bank, National Association, as Syndication Agent. The 2007 Revolving Credit Facility may, subject to certain terms and conditions, be increased by an additional $50.0 million for a total facility size of $100.0 million. The 2007 Revolving Credit Facility allows for up to $15.0 million of the available credit to be extended in the form of letters of credit. All amounts owed by us under the 2007 Revolving Credit Facility are guaranteed by our subsidiaries and must be repaid in full upon the maturity date on June 30, 2012.

At any time throughout the term of the facility, we may elect one of two interest rate options. One interest rate option is the greater of (a) the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 0.50%, or (b) prime, plus, in either case, an applicable spread that ranges from zero to 0.50% per annum. The other interest rate option is the London InterBank Offered Rate plus a spread that ranges from 0.75% to 2.00% per annum. The applicable spread under each option is dependent upon certain measures of our financial performance at the time of each election.

We pay a quarterly commitment fee based on the unused available balance of the 2007 Revolving Credit Facility, which is also dependent upon our financial performance, ranging from 0.20% to 0.30% per annum. We also pay quarterly fees with respect to any letters of credit issued and outstanding. In addition, we paid the lenders a one-time fee in connection with the closing of the 2007 Revolving Credit Facility.

The 2007 Revolving Credit Facility contains customary covenants and restrictions on our ability to engage in certain activities, including financial performance covenants and limitations on capital expenditures, asset sales and acquisitions and contains customary events of default. As of May 7, 2008, we were in compliance with all covenants.

At May 7, 2008, we had a total of approximately $2.7 million committed under letters of credit, issued under the 2007 Revolving Credit Facility, which have been issued as security for the payment of insurance obligations classified as accrued expenses on the balance sheet. An additional $12.3 million may be issued under letters of credit.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 1 of Part 1 of this report are prepared in conformity with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. Preparation of the financial statements requires us to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Management believes the following are critical accounting policies due to the significant, subjective and complex judgments and estimates used when preparing our consolidated financial statements. Management regularly reviews these assumptions and estimates with the Finance and Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.

 

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Income Taxes

We account for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”, as interpreted by FIN 48. We record the estimated future tax effects of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, as well as operating loss and tax credit carrybacks and carryforwards. We periodically review the recoverability of tax assets recorded on the balance sheet and provide valuation allowances as management deems necessary.

Management makes judgments regarding the interpretation of tax laws that might be challenged upon an audit and cause changes to previous estimates of tax liability. In addition, we operate within multiple taxing jurisdictions and are subject to audit in these jurisdictions as well as by the Internal Revenue Service. In management’s opinion, adequate provisions for income taxes have been made for all open tax years. We regularly assess the potential outcomes of examinations in determining the adequacy of our provision for income taxes and our income tax liabilities. We believe that we have adequately provided for any reasonable and foreseeable outcome related to uncertain tax matters.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

We periodically evaluate long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. We estimate future cash flows expected to result from the use and possible disposition of the asset and will recognize an impairment loss when the sum of the undiscounted estimated future cash flows is less than the carrying amounts of such assets. The estimates of future cash flows, based on reasonable and supportable assumptions and projections, require management’s subjective judgments. The span of time for which future cash flows are estimated is often lengthy, which increases the sensitivity to assumptions made. Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, the estimated future cash flows projected in the evaluation of long-lived assets can vary within a wide range of outcomes. We consider the likelihood of possible outcomes in determining the best estimate of future cash flows. The measurement for such an impairment loss is then based on the fair value of the asset as determined by either discounted cash flows or appraisals.

Property Held for Sale

We also periodically review long-lived assets against our plans to retain or ultimately dispose of properties. Property is moved into property held for sale when the restaurant is closed. Property held for sale is actively marketed. Property held for sale is recorded at amounts not in excess of what management currently expects to receive upon sale, less costs of disposal. We routinely monitor the estimated value of property held for sale and record adjustments to these values as required. We periodically measure and analyze our estimates against third-party appraisals.

Long-term Investments

The Company periodically reviews the carrying value of our long-term investments which consist of auction rate securities. These investments are recorded at fair value which is par value less unrealized losses. The Company intends to hold the securities until liquidity returns to the auction rate securities market or the bonds are called or refunded by the issuer. Changes in the fair value of the investment prior to the return of market liquidity or the bond calling or refunds by the issuer will be reflected in other comprehensive income as unrealized gains and losses.

Insurance and Claims

We self-insure a significant portion of risks and associated liabilities under our employee injury, workers’ compensation and general liability programs. We maintain insurance coverage with third party carriers to limit our per-occurrence claim exposure. We have recorded accrued liabilities for self-insurance based upon analysis of historical data and actuarial estimates, and we review these amounts on a quarterly basis to ensure that the liability is appropriate.

The significant assumptions made by the actuary to estimate self-insurance reserves, including incurred but not reported claims, are as follows: (1) historical patterns of loss development will continue in the future as they have in the past (Loss Development Method), (2) historical trend patterns and loss cost levels will continue in the future as they have in the past (Bornhuetter-Ferguson Method), and (3) historical claim counts and exposures are used to calculate historical frequency rates and average claim costs are analyzed to get a projected severity (Frequency and Severity Method). The results of these methods are blended by the actuary to provide the reserves estimates. The third party actuary utilizes methods and assumptions that are in accordance with generally accepted actuarial practices and we believe the conclusions reached are reasonable.

 

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Actual workers’ compensation and employee injury claims expense may differ from estimated loss provisions. The ultimate level of claims under the in-house safety program are not known, and declines in incidence of claims as well as claims costs, experiences or reductions in reserve requirements under the program may not continue in future periods.

Share-Based Compensation

We adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 123, “Share-Based Payments (Revised 2004)” (SFAS 123R), effective September 1, 2005. Among other things, SFAS 123R eliminates the ability to account for stock-based compensation using APB 25 and requires that such transactions be recognized as compensation cost in the income statement utilizing the fair values on the date of the grant.

INFLATION

Our policy is to maintain stable menu prices without regard to seasonal variations in food costs. General increases in cost of food, wages, supplies, transportation and services may require us to increase our menu prices from time to time. To the extent prevailing market conditions allow, we intend to adjust menu prices to maintain profit margins.

 

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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

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

 

 

future operating results;

 

 

future capital expenditures;

 

 

future debt, including liquidity and the sources and availability of funds related to debt;

 

 

projections regarding the financial performance of our new prototype restaurants;

 

 

plans for expansion of our business;

 

 

scheduled openings of new units;

 

 

future sales of assets and the gains or losses that may be recognized as a result of any such sale;

 

 

plans relating to our short-term and long-term investments; and

 

 

continued compliance with the terms of our 2007 Revolving Credit Facility.

In some cases, investors can identify these statements by forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “outlook,” “may,” “should,” “will,” and “would” or similar words. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by management in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe are relevant. Although management believes that their assumptions are reasonable based on information currently available, those assumptions are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control. The following factors, as well as the factors set forth in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 29, 2007 and any other cautionary language in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, provide examples of risks, uncertainties, and events that may cause our financial and operational results to differ materially from the expectations described in our forward-looking statements:

 

 

general business and economic conditions;

 

 

the impact of competition;

 

 

our operating initiatives;

 

 

fluctuations in the costs of commodities, including beef, poultry, seafood, dairy, cheese, oils and produce;

 

 

ability to raise menu prices;

 

 

increases in utility costs, including the costs of natural gas and other energy supplies;

 

 

changes in the availability and cost of labor;

 

 

the seasonality of the business;

 

 

changes in governmental regulations, including changes in minimum wages;

 

 

the effects of inflation;

 

 

the availability of credit;

 

 

unfavorable publicity relating to operations, including publicity concerning food quality, illness or other health concerns or labor relations; and

 

 

the continued service of key management personnel.

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

 

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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates affecting our variable-rate debt. As of May 7, 2008, the total amount of debt subject to interest rate fluctuations outstanding under our 2007 Revolving Credit Facility was zero.

Although we are not currently using interest rate swaps, we have previously used and may in the future use these instruments to manage interest rate risk on a portion of our variable-rate debt.

We are also exposed to risk related to our long-term investments in auction rate municipal securities. Adverse financial effects on the municipalities and the insurance companies insuring the securities could affect our ability to collect the full amount of interest or the estimated fair value of the principal. Our current strategy is to hold the investments until liquidity returns to the auction rate securities market or the bonds are called or refunded by the issuers.

Many ingredients in the products sold in our restaurants are commodities, subject to unpredictable price fluctuations. We attempt to minimize price volatility by negotiating fixed price contracts for the supply of key ingredients and in some cases by passing increased commodity costs through to the customer by adjusting menu prices or menu offerings. Our ingredients are available from multiple suppliers so we are not dependent on a single vendor for our ingredients.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), as of May 7, 2008. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of May 7, 2008, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective in providing reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended May 7, 2008 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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Part II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

There have been no material changes to our legal proceedings as disclosed in “Legal Proceedings” in Item 3 of Part I of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 29, 2007.

 

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

Issuer Repurchases of Equity Securities

The following table summarizes the purchases of our common stock by us and our affiliated purchases during the fiscal quarter ended May 7, 2008:

 

Period

   (a)
Total number of
shares purchased
   (b)
Average price
paid per share
   (c)
Total number of
shares purchased
as part of publicly
announced plans
or programs
   (d)
Maximum number
(or approximate
dollar value) of
shares that may yet
be purchased
under the plans or
programs

February 14, 2008 – March 13, 2008

   500,000    $ 9.50    —      —  

March 14, 2008 – April 13, 2008

   —        —      —      —  

April 14, 2008 – May 7, 2008

   —        —      —      —  
                 

Total

   500,000      N/A    —      —  
             

 

(1) Represents shares that we repurchased in a privately negotiated block trade.

 

Item 6. Exhibits

 

  3.1

   Certificate of Incorporation of Luby’s, Inc. as currently in effect (filed as Exhibit 3(b) to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended February 28, 1999, and incorporated herein by reference).

  3.2

   Luby’s, Inc. Amended and Restated Bylaws dated November 17, 2006, as currently in effect (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 22, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference).

31.1

   Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) certification of the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2

   Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) certification of the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1

   Section 1350 certification of the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2

   Section 1350 certification of the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

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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.

 

  LUBY’S, INC.
  (Registrant)
Date: June 13, 2008   By:  

/s/ Christopher J. Pappas

    Christopher J. Pappas
    President and Chief Executive Officer
Date: June 13, 2008   By:  

/s/ K. Scott Gray

    K. Scott Gray
    Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

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