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J&J SNACK FOODS CORP - Quarter Report: 2023 March (Form 10-Q)

jjsf20230325_10q.htm
 
 

 

UNITED STATES

 

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

 

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

 

Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the period ended March 25, 2023

or

 

Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

Commission File Number:         0-14616

 

J&J SNACK FOODS CORP.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

New Jersey 22-1935537
(State or other jurisdiction of

(I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)

Identification No.)

 

6000 Central Highway, Pennsauken, New Jersey 08109

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Telephone (856) 665-9533

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:

 

Title of Each Class

Trading Symbol(s)

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered

Common Stock, no par value

JJSF

The NASDAQ Global Select Market

 

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

No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).

Yes

No

 

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

 

Large Accelerated filer

Accelerated filer

       

Non-accelerated filer

   
   

Smaller reporting company

   

Emerging growth company

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

 

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

 

Yes

No

 

At May 1, 2023 there were 19,252,281 shares of the Registrant’s Common Stock outstanding.

 

1

 

 

 

INDEX

 

Page
Number

Part I.   Financial Information

 
   

Item l.   Consolidated Financial Statements

 
   

Consolidated Balance Sheets – March 25, 2023 (unaudited) and September 24, 2022

3

   
Consolidated Statements of Earnings (unaudited) - Three and Six Months Ended March 25, 2023 and March 26, 2022

4

   
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (unaudited) – Three and Six Months Ended March 25, 2023 and March 26, 2022

5

   
Consolidated Statements of Changes In Stockholders’ Equity (unaudited) – Three and Six Months Ended March 25, 2023 and March 26, 2022 

6

   
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited) – Three and Six Months Ended March 25, 2023 and March 26, 2022

7

   

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

8

   

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

23

   

Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

31

   

Item 4.   Controls and Procedures

32

   

Part II.   Other Information

 

   

Item 6.   Exhibits

33

 

2

 

 

PART I.         FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.   Consolidated Financial Statements

 

J & J SNACK FOODS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except share amounts)

 

   

March 25,

         
   

2023

   

September 24,

 
   

(unaudited)

   

2022

 
Assets                
Current assets                

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 43,283     $ 35,181  

Marketable securities held to maturity

    -       4,011  

Accounts receivable, net

    198,442       208,178  

Inventories

    180,721       180,473  

Prepaid expenses and other

    12,062       16,794  

Total current assets

    434,508       444,637  
                 
Property, plant and equipment, at cost                

Land

    3,714       3,714  

Buildings

    34,232       34,232  

Plant machinery and equipment

    396,522       374,566  

Marketing equipment

    284,509       274,904  

Transportation equipment

    13,244       11,685  

Office equipment

    46,355       45,865  

Improvements

    49,733       49,331  

Construction in progress

    79,808       65,753  

Total Property, plant and equipment, at cost

    908,117       860,050  

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

    550,000       524,683  

Property, plant and equipment, net

    358,117       335,367  
                 
Other assets                

Goodwill

    185,070       184,420  

Other intangible assets, net

    188,347       191,732  

Marketable securities available for sale

    4,429       5,708  

Operating lease right-of-use assets

    50,252       51,137  

Other

    4,234       3,965  

Total other assets

    432,332       436,962  

Total Assets

  $ 1,224,957     $ 1,216,966  
                 
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity                
Current Liabilities                

Current finance lease liabilities

  $ 226     $ 124  

Accounts payable

    85,507       108,146  

Accrued insurance liability

    16,831       15,678  

Accrued liabilities

    10,448       9,214  

Current operating lease liabilities

    13,507       13,524  

Accrued compensation expense

    19,117       21,700  

Dividends payable

    13,475       13,453  

Total current liabilities

    159,111       181,839  
                 

Long-term debt

    92,000       55,000  

Noncurrent finance lease liabilities

    702       254  

Noncurrent operating lease liabilities

    41,642       42,660  

Deferred income taxes

    69,602       70,407  

Other long-term liabilities

    3,613       3,637  
                 
Stockholders' Equity                

Preferred stock, $1 par value; authorized 10,000,000 shares; none issued

    -       -  

Common stock, no par value; authorized, 50,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 19,252,000 and 19,219,000 respectively

    100,637       94,026  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

    (11,774 )     (13,713 )

Retained Earnings

    769,424       782,856  

Total stockholders' equity

    858,287       863,169  

Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

  $ 1,224,957     $ 1,216,966  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

3

 

 

J & J SNACK FOODS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS

(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

   

March 25,

   

March 26,

 
   

2023

   

2022

   

2023

   

2022

 
                                 

Net sales

  $ 337,854     $ 281,513     $ 689,197     $ 600,003  
                                 

Cost of goods sold

    247,470       216,165       507,958       455,280  

Gross profit

    90,384       65,348       181,239       144,723  
                                 
Operating expenses                                

Marketing

    24,017       21,036       47,716       41,943  

Distribution

    38,188       28,349       80,237       61,664  

Administrative

    17,919       11,719       34,310       22,088  

Other general expense

    67       156       (545 )     95  

Total operating expenses

    80,191       61,260       161,718       125,790  
                                 

Operating income

    10,193       4,088       19,521       18,933  
                                 
Other income (expense)                                

Investment income

    401       160       1,086       431  

Interest expense

    (1,334 )     (57 )     (2,383 )     (75 )
                                 

Earnings before income taxes

    9,260       4,191       18,224       19,289  
                                 

Income tax expense

    2,389       920       4,720       4,927  
                                 

NET EARNINGS

  $ 6,871     $ 3,271     $ 13,504     $ 14,362  
                                 

Earnings per diluted share

  $ 0.36     $ 0.17     $ 0.70     $ 0.75  
                                 

Weighted average number of diluted shares

    19,295       19,206       19,285       19,180  
                                 

Earnings per basic share

  $ 0.36     $ 0.17     $ 0.70     $ 0.75  
                                 

Weighted average number of basic shares

    19,238       19,134       19,230       19,110  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

4

 

 

J&J SNACK FOODS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)

(in thousands)

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months Ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

   

March 25,

   

March 26,

 
   

2023

   

2022

   

2023

   

2022

 
                                 

Net earnings

  $ 6,871     $ 3,271     $ 13,504     $ 14,362  
                                 

Foreign currency translation adjustments

    1,068       546       1,939       102  
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax     1,068       546       1,939       102  
                                 

Comprehensive income

  $ 7,939     $ 3,817     $ 15,443     $ 14,464  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

5

 

 

J & J SNACK FOODS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

(in thousands)

 

                    Accumulated                  
                   

Other

                 
   

Common Stock

   

Comprehensive

   

Retained

         
   

Shares

   

Amount

   

Loss

   

Earnings

   

Total

 
                                         

Balance as September 24, 2022

    19,219     $ 94,026     $ (13,713 )   $ 782,856     $ 863,169  
                                         

Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options

    10       1,285       -       -       1,285  

Foreign currency translation adjustment

    -       -       871       -       871  

Dividends declared

    -       -       -       (13,461 )     (13,461 )

Share-based compensation

    -       1,239       -       -       1,239  

Net earnings

    -       -       -       6,633       6,633  

Balance at December 24, 2022

    19,229     $ 96,550     $ (12,842 )   $ 776,028     $ 859,736  
                                         

Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options

    14       1,713       -       -       1,713  

Issuance of common stock for employee stock purchase plan

    9       1,061       -       -       1,061  

Foreign currency translation adjustment

    -       -       1,068       -       1,068  

Dividends declared

    -       -       -       (13,475 )     (13,475 )

Share-based compensation

    -       1,313       -       -       1,313  

Net earnings

    -       -       -       6,871       6,871  
Balance at March 25, 2023     19,252     $ 100,637     $ (11,774 )   $ 769,424     $ 858,287  

 

                   

Accumulated

                 
                   

Other

                 
   

Common Stock

   

Comprehensive

   

Retained

         
   

Shares

   

Amount

   

Loss

   

Earnings

   

Total

 
                                         

Balance as September 25, 2021

    19,084     $ 73,597     $ (13,383 )   $ 785,440     $ 845,654  
                                         

Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options

    5       706       -       -       706  

Foreign currency translation adjustment

    -       -       (444 )     -       (444 )

Dividends declared

    -       -       -       (12,092 )     (12,092 )

Share-based compensation

    -       1,083       -       -       1,083  

Net earnings

    -       -       -       11,091       11,091  

Balance at December 25, 2021

    19,089     $ 75,386     $ (13,827 )   $ 784,439     $ 845,998  
                                         

Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options

    76       10,012       -       -       10,012  

Issuance of common stock for employee stock purchase plan

    8       1,023       -       -       1,023  

Foreign currency translation adjustment

    -       -       546       -       546  

Dividends declared

    -       -       -       (12,136 )     (12,136 )

Share-based compensation

    -       1,267       -       -       1,267  

Net earnings

    -       -       -       3,271       3,271  

Balance at March 26, 2022

    19,173     $ 87,688     $ (13,281 )   $ 775,574     $ 849,981  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

6

 

 

J & J SNACK FOODS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited) (in thousands)

 

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 
Operating activities:                

Net earnings

  $ 13,504     $ 14,362  
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities                

Depreciation of fixed assets

    27,236       23,868  

Amortization of intangibles and deferred costs

    3,385       1,183  
(Gain) loss from disposals of property & equipment     (354 )     100  

Share-based compensation

    2,552       2,350  

Deferred income taxes

    (787 )     (251 )
(Gain) loss on marketable securities     (22 )     69  

Other

    (255 )     (184 )
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects from purchase of companies                

Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable

    10,541       (25,031 )

Decrease (increase) in inventories

    823       (36,538 )

Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses

    4,787       (4,308 )

(Decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities

    (25,739 )     (2,055 )

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

    35,671       (26,435 )
                 
Investing activities:                

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

    (49,124 )     (35,306 )

Proceeds from redemption and sales of marketable securities

    5,300       11,526  

Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment

    797       589  

Net cash (used in) investing activities

    (43,027 )     (23,191 )
                 
Financing activities:                

Proceeds from issuance of stock

    4,059       11,741  

Borrowings under credit facility

    92,000       -  

Repayment of borrowings under credit facility

    (55,000 )     -  

Payments on finance lease obligations

    (71 )     (111 )

Payment of cash dividend

    (26,914 )     (24,163 )

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

    14,074       (12,533 )
                 

Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents

    1,384       (16 )
                 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

    8,102       (62,175 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

    35,181       283,192  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $ 43,283     $ 221,017  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

7

 

J & J SNACK FOODS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

 

Note 1

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. They do not include all information and notes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. However, except as disclosed herein, there has been no material change in the information disclosed in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 24, 2022.

 

In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the financial position and the results of operations and cash flows.

 

The results of operations for the three and six months ended March 25, 2023 and March 26, 2022 are not necessarily indicative of results for the full year. Sales of our frozen beverages and frozen novelties are generally higher in the fiscal third and fourth quarters due to warmer weather.

 

While we believe that the disclosures presented are adequate to make the information not misleading, it is suggested that these consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 24, 2022.

 

 

Note 2

Business Combinations

 

On June 21, 2022, J & J Snack Foods Corp. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, DD Acquisition Holdings, LLC, completed the acquisition of one hundred percent (100%) of the equity interests of Dippin’ Dots Holding, L.L.C. (“Dippin’ Dots”) which, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, owns and operates the Dippin’ Dots and Doc Popcorn businesses. The purchase price was approximately $223.6 million, consisting entirely of cash, and may be modified for certain customary post-closing purchase price adjustments.

 

Dippin’ Dots is a leading producer of flash-frozen beaded ice cream treats, and the acquisition will leverage synergies in entertainment and amusement locations, theaters, and convenience to continue to expand our business. The acquisition also includes the Doc Popcorn business operated by Dippin’ Dots.

 

The financial results of Dippin’ Dots have been included in our consolidated financial statements since the date of the acquisition. Sales and net earnings (loss) of Dippin’ Dots were $16.0 million and ($0.2) million for the three months ended March 25, 2023 and $29.3 million and ($0.8) million for the six months ended March 25, 2023. Dippin’ Dots is reported as part of our Food Service segment.

 

Upon acquisition, the assets and liabilities of Dippin’ Dots were adjusted to their respective fair values as of the closing date of the transaction, including the identifiable intangible assets acquired. In addition, the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired has been recorded as goodwill. The fair value estimates used in valuing certain acquired assets and liabilities are based, in part, on inputs that are unobservable. For intangible assets, these include, but are not limited to, forecasted future cash flows, revenue growth rates, attrition rates and discount rates.

 

The purchase price allocation as of the date of acquisition was based on a preliminary valuation and is subject to revision as more detailed analyses are completed and additional information about the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed becomes available.

 

During the three months ended March 25, 2023, we recorded a measurement period adjustment to the estimated fair values initially recorded on June 21, 2022 which resulted in an increase in Other Current Liabilities of $0.7 million and an increase in Goodwill of $0.7 million. In fiscal year 2022, we previously recorded measurement period adjustments to the estimated fair values initially recorded on June 21, 2022, which resulted in an increase to Property, plant, and equipment, net of $6.5 million, and reductions in Goodwill, Identifiable intangible assets, and Inventories of $4.0 million, $2.2 million, and $0.3 million, respectively. The measurement period adjustments were recorded to better reflect market participant assumptions about facts and circumstances existing as of the acquisition date and did not have a material impact on our consolidated statement of income for the three months, or the six months, ended March 25, 2023.

 

8

 

The major classes of assets and liabilities to which we have preliminarily allocated the purchase price were as follows:

 

Preliminary Dippin' Dots Purchase Price Allocation (1)

 

   

Preliminary Value

                 
   

as of acquisition

                 
   

date (as previously

   

Measurement

         
   

reported as of

   

Period

         
   

June 25, 2022)

   

Adjustment

   

As Adjusted

 
   

(in thousands)

 
                         

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 2,259             $ 2,259  

Accounts receivable, net

    12,257               12,257  

Inventories

    8,812       (301 )     8,511  

Prepaid expenses and other

    1,215               1,215  

Property, plant and equipment, net

    24,622       6,548       31,170  

Intangible assets

    120,400       (2,200 )     118,200  

Goodwill (2)

    66,634       (3,397 )     63,237  

Operating lease right-of-use assets

    3,514               3,514  

Other noncurrent assets

    243               243  

Total assets acquired

    239,956       650       240,606  
Liabilities assumed:                        

Current lease liabilities

    619               619  

Accounts payable

    6,005               6,005  

Other current liabilities

    3,532       650       4,182  

Noncurrent lease liabilities

    2,954               2,954  

Other noncurrent liabilities

    3,285               3,285  

Total liabilities acquired

    16,395       650       17,045  

Purchase price

  $ 223,561     $ -     $ 223,561  

 

(1) Due to the limited time since the date of the acquisition, the purchase price allocation remains preliminary.

(2) Goodwill was assigned to our Food Services segment and was primarily attributed to the assembled workforce of the acquired business and to our expectations of favorable growth opportunities in entertainment and amusement locations, theaters, and convenience based on increased synergies that are expected to be achieved from the integration of Dippin’ Dots.

 

Acquired Intangible Assets

 

   

Weighted average

   

June 21,

 
   

life (years)

   

2022

 
            (in thousands)  
Amortizable              

Trade name

  indefinite     $ 76,900  

Developed technology

    10       22,900  

Customer relationships

    10       9,900  

Franchise agreements

    10       8,500  

Total acquired intangible assets

          $ 118,200  

 

Dippin' Dots Results Included in the Company's Consolidated Results

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 25,

 
   

2023

   

2023

 
   

(in thousands)

   

(in thousands)

 
                 

Net sales

  $ 15,967     $ 29,345  
Net earnings (loss)   $ (163 )   $ (830 )

 

9

 

 

Note 3

Revenue Recognition

 

When Performance Obligations Are Satisfied

 

A performance obligation is a promise in a contract to transfer a distinct good or service to the customer and is the unit of account for revenue recognition. A contract’s transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation and recognized as revenue when, or as, the performance obligation is satisfied.

 

The singular performance obligation of our customer contracts for product and machine sales is determined by each individual purchase order and the respective products ordered, with revenue being recognized at a point-in-time when the obligation under the terms of the agreement is satisfied and product control is transferred to our customer. Specifically, control transfers to our customers when the product is delivered to, installed or picked up by our customers based upon applicable shipping terms, as our customers can direct the use and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from the product at this point in time. The performance obligations in our customer contracts for product are generally satisfied within 30 days.

 

The singular performance obligation of our customer contracts for time and material repair and maintenance equipment service is the performance of the repair and maintenance with revenue being recognized at a point-in-time when the repair and maintenance is completed.

 

The singular performance obligation of our customer repair and maintenance equipment service contracts is the performance of the repair and maintenance with revenue being recognized over the time the service is expected to be performed. Our customers are billed for service contracts in advance of performance and therefore we have contract liability on our balance sheet.

 

Significant Payment Terms

 

In general, within our customer contracts, the purchase order identifies the product, quantity, price, pick-up allowances, payment terms and final delivery terms. Although some payment terms may be more extended, presently the majority of our payment terms are 30 days. As a result, we have used the available practical expedient and, consequently, do not adjust our revenues for the effects of a significant financing component.

 

Shipping

 

All amounts billed to customers related to shipping and handling are classified as revenues; therefore, we recognize revenue for shipping and handling fees at the time the products are shipped or when services are performed. The cost of shipping products to the customer is recognized at the time the products are shipped to the customer and our policy is to classify them as Distribution expenses.

 

Variable Consideration

 

In addition to fixed contract consideration, our contracts include some form of variable consideration, including sales discounts, trade promotions and certain other sales and consumer incentives, including rebates and coupon redemptions. In general, variable consideration is treated as a reduction in revenue when the related revenue is recognized. Depending on the specific type of variable consideration, we use the most likely amount method to determine the variable consideration. We believe there will be no significant changes to our estimates of variable consideration when any related uncertainties are resolved with our customers. We review and update our estimates and related accruals of variable consideration each period based on historical experience. Our recorded liability for allowances, end-user pricing adjustments and trade spending was $13.8 million at March 25, 2023 and $14.7 million at September 24, 2022.

 

10

 

Warranties & Returns

 

We provide all customers with a standard or assurance type warranty. Either stated or implied, we provide assurance the related products will comply with all agreed-upon specifications and other warranties provided under the law. No services beyond an assurance warranty are provided to our customers.

 

We do not grant a general right of return. However, customers may return defective or non-conforming products. Customer remedies may include either a cash refund or an exchange of the product. We do not estimate a right of return and related refund liability as returns of our products are rare.

 

Contract Balances

 

Our customers are billed for service contracts in advance of performance and therefore we have contract liability on our balance sheet as follows:

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

   

March 25,

   

March 26,

 
   

2023

   

2022

   

2023

   

2022

 
   

(in thousands)

   

(in thousands)

 
                                 

Beginning balance

  $ 4,767     $ 1,030     $ 4,926     $ 1,097  

Additions to contract liability

    1,527       1,374       2,917       2,573  

Amounts recognized as revenue

    (1,465 )     (1,312 )     (3,014 )     (2,578 )

Ending balance

  $ 4,829     $ 1,092     $ 4,829     $ 1,092  

 

Disaggregation of Revenue

 

See Note 11 for disaggregation of our net sales by class of similar product and type of customer.

 

Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

 

The Company continuously monitors collections and payments from its customers and maintains a provision for estimated credit losses. The allowance for doubtful accounts considers a number of factors including the age of receivable balances, the history of losses, expectations of future credit losses, and the customers’ ability to pay off obligations. The allowance for doubtful receivables was $2.3 million and $2.2 million on March 25, 2023 and September 24, 2022, respectively.

 

11

 

 

Note 4

Depreciation and Amortization Expense

 

Depreciation of equipment and buildings is provided for by the straight-line method over the assets’ estimated useful lives. Amortization of improvements is provided for by the straight-line method over the term of the lease or the assets’ estimated useful lives, whichever is shorter. Licenses and rights, customer relationships, franchise agreements, technology and non-compete agreements arising from acquisitions are amortized by the straight-line method over periods ranging from 2 to 20 years. Depreciation expense was $13.8 million and $11.9 million for the three months ended March 25, 2023 and March 26, 2022, respectively and $27.2 million and $23.9 million for the six months ended March 25, 2023 and March 26, 2022, respectively.

 

 

 

Note 5

Earnings per Share

 

Basic earnings per common share (EPS) excludes dilution and is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS takes into consideration the potential dilution that could occur if securities (stock options and restricted stock units (“RSU”)’s) or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised and converted into common stock. Our calculation of EPS is as follows:

 

   

Three months ended March 25, 2023

 
   

Income

   

Shares

   

Per Share

 
   

(Numerator)

   

(Denominator)

   

Amount

 
   

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Basic EPS

                       

Net earnings available to common stockholders

  $ 6,871       19,238     $ 0.36  
                         

Effect of dilutive securities

                       

RSU's and options

    -       57       -  
                         

Diluted EPS

                       

Net earnings available to common stockholders plus assumed conversions

  $ 6,871       19,295     $ 0.36  

 

381,735 anti-dilutive shares have been excluded in the computation of EPS for the three months ended March 25, 2023.

 

 

   

Six months ended March 25, 2023

 
   

Income

   

Shares

   

Per Share

 
   

(Numerator)

   

(Denominator)

   

Amount

 
   

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 
Basic EPS                        

Net earnings available to common stockholders

  $ 13,504       19,230     $ 0.70  
                         
Effect of dilutive securities                        

RSU's and options

    -       55       -  
                         
Diluted EPS                        

Net earnings available to common stockholders plus assumed conversions

  $ 13,504       19,285     $ 0.70  

 

386,510 anti-dilutive shares have been excluded in the computation of EPS for the six months ended March 25, 2023.

 

 

   

Three months ended March 26, 2022

 
   

Income

   

Shares

   

Per Share

 
   

(Numerator)

   

(Denominator)

   

Amount

 
   

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 
Basic EPS                        

Net earnings available to common stockholders

  $ 3,271       19,134     $ 0.17  
                         
Effect of dilutive securities                        

RSU's and options

    -       72       -  
                         
Diluted EPS                        

Net earnings available to common stockholders plus assumed conversions

  $ 3,271       19,206     $ 0.17  

 

270,352 anti-dilutive shares have been excluded in the computation of EPS for the three months ended March 26, 2022.

 

12

 

   

Six months ended March 26, 2022

 
   

Income

   

Shares

   

Per Share

 
   

(Numerator)

   

(Denominator)

   

Amount

 
   

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 
Basic EPS                        

Net earnings available to common stockholders

  $ 14,362       19,110     $ 0.75  
                         
Effect of dilutive securities                        

RSU's and options

    -       70       -  
                         
Diluted EPS                        

Net earnings available to common stockholders plus assumed conversions

  $ 14,362       19,180     $ 0.75  

 

271,452 anti-dilutive shares have been excluded in the computation of EPS for the six months ended March 26, 2022.

 

 

 

Note 6

Share-Based Compensation and Post-Retirement Benefits

 

At March 25, 2023, the Company has three stock-based employee compensation plans. Share-based compensation expense was recognized as follows:

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

   

March 25,

   

March 26,

 
   

2023

   

2022

   

2023

   

2022

 
   

(in thousands)

   

(in thousands)

 
                                 

Stock options

  $ 559     $ 586     $ 1,179     $ 1,400  

Stock purchase plan

    197       90       424       150  

Stock issued to outside directors

    27       11       27       22  

Service share units issued to employees

    193       152       374       224  

Performance share units issued to employees

    171       82       243       121  

Total share-based compensation

  $ 1,147     $ 921     $ 2,247     $ 1,917  
                                 

The above compensation is net of tax benefits

  $ 166     $ 346     $ 305     $ 433  

 

The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes options-pricing model.

 

Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the price of our common shares over the past 51 months for 5-year options and 10 years for 10-year options. We use historical information to estimate expected life and forfeitures within the valuation model. The expected term of awards represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free rate for periods within the expected life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. Compensation cost is recognized using a straight-line method over the vesting or service period and is net of estimated forfeitures.

 

The Company did not grant any stock options during the six months ended March 25, 2023 or during the six months ended March 26, 2022.

 

During the six months ended March 25, 2023, the Company issued 9,900 service share units (“RSU”)’s. Each RSU entitles the awardee to one share of common stock upon vesting. During the six months ended March 26, 2022, the Company issued 8,873 RSU’s. The fair value of the RSU’s was determined based upon the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. No such RSU’s were issued in the three months ended March 25, 2023 or March 26, 2022.

 

During the six months ended March 25, 2023, the Company also issued 18,641 performance share units (“PSU”)’s. Each PSU may result in the issuance of up to two shares of common stock upon vesting, dependent upon the level of achievement of the applicable Performance Goal. The fair value of the PSU’s was determined based upon the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Additionally, the Company applies a quarterly probability assessment in computing this non-cash compensation expense, and any change in estimate is reflected as a cumulative adjustment to expense in the quarter of the change. During the six months ended March 26, 2022, the Company issued 8,868 PSU’s. No such PSU’s were issued in the three months ended March 25, 2023 or March 26, 2022.

 

13

 

 

 

Note 7

Income Taxes

 

We account for our income taxes under the liability method. Under the liability method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities as measured by the enacted tax rates that will be in effect when these differences reverse.  Deferred tax expense is the result of changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities.

 

Additionally, we recognize a liability for income taxes and associated penalties and interest for tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return which are more likely than not to be overturned by taxing authorities (“uncertain tax positions”).  We have not recognized a tax benefit in our financial statements for these uncertain tax positions.

 

The total amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits is $0.3 million on both March 25, 2023 and September 24, 2022, respectively, all of which would impact our effective tax rate over time, if recognized. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions as a part of the provision for income taxes. As of March 25, 2023, and September 24, 2022, the Company has $0.3 million of accrued interest and penalties, respectively.

 

In addition to our federal tax return and tax returns for Mexico and Canada, we file tax returns in all states that have a corporate income tax with virtually all open for examination for three to four years.

 

Our effective tax rate was 25.8% for the three months ended March 25, 2023, as compared with 21.9% in the prior year period, with the increase due to the impact of stock-based compensation expense in the prior year period.

 

Our effective tax rate was 25.9% for the six months ended March 25, 2023, as compared with 25.5% in the prior year period.

 

 

 

Note 8

New Accounting Pronouncements and Policies

 

In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU No. 2022-06, "Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848", to provide optional guidance to temporarily ease the potential burden in accounting for (or recognizing the effects of) reference rate reform on financial reporting. Preceding the issuance of ASU 2020-04, which established ASC 848, the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority ("FCA") announced that it would no longer need to persuade or compel banks to submit to LIBOR after December 31, 2021. In response, the FASB established December 31, 2022 as the expiration date for ASC 848. In March 2021, the FCA announced the intended cessation date of the overnight 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month USD LIBOR would be June 30, 2023. Because the current relief in Topic 848 may not cover a period of time during which a significant number of modifications may take place, this update deferred the sunset date in Topic 848 from December 31, 2022, to December 31, 2024, after which entities will no longer be permitted to apply the relief in Topic 848. This guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

 

In September 2022, the FASB issued ASU No. 2022-04 “Liabilities – Supplier Finance Programs (Subtopic 405-50): Disclosure of Supplier Finance Program Obligations”. This guidance requires annual and interim disclosures for entities that use supplier finance programs in connection with the purchase of goods and services. These amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, except for the amendment on rollforward information, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023. We are currently assessing the impact of the guidance on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

 

 

 

Note 9

Long-Term Debt

 

In December 2021, the Company entered into an amended and restated loan agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with our existing banks which provided for up to a $50 million revolving credit facility repayable in December 2026.

 

Interest accrues, at the Company’s election at (i) the BSBY Rate (as defined in the Credit Agreement) plus an applicable margin, based upon the Consolidated Net Leverage Ratio, as defined in the Credit Agreement, or (ii) the Alternate Base Rate (a rate based on the higher of (a) the prime rate announced from time-to-time by the Administrative Agent, (b) the Federal Reserve System’s federal funds rate, plus 0.50% or (c) the Daily BSBY Rate, plus an applicable margin). The Alternate Base Rate is defined in the Credit Agreement.

 

14

 

The Credit Agreement requires the Company to comply with various affirmative and negative covenants, including without limitation (i) covenants to maintain a minimum specified interest coverage ratio and maximum specified net leverage ratio, and (ii) subject to certain exceptions, covenants that prevent or restrict the Company’s ability to pay dividends, engage in certain mergers or acquisitions, make certain investments or loans, incur future indebtedness, alter its capital structure or line of business, prepay subordinated indebtedness, engage in certain transactions with affiliates, or amend its organizational documents. As of March 25, 2023, the Company is in compliance with all financial covenants terms of the Credit Agreement.

 

On June 21, 2022, the Company entered into an amendment to the Credit Agreement, the “Amended Credit Agreement” which provided for an incremental increase of $175 million in available borrowings. The Amended Credit Agreement also includes an option to increase the size of the revolving credit facility by up to an amount not to exceed in the aggregate the greater of $225 million or $50 million, plus the Consolidated EBITDA of the Borrowers, subject to the satisfaction of certain terms and conditions.

 

As of March 25, 2023, $92 million was outstanding under the Amended Credit Agreement with a weighted average interest rate of 5.50%. These borrowings have been classified as Long-Term Debt on the Company’s Balance Sheet. As of March 25, 2023, the amount available under the Amended Credit Agreement was $123.2 million, after giving effect to the outstanding letters of credit. As of September 24, 2022, $55.0 million was outstanding balances under the Credit Agreement. As of September 24, 2022, the amount available under the Amended Agreement was $160.2 million, after giving effect to the outstanding letters of credit.

 

 

 

Note 10

Inventory

 

Inventories consist of the following:

 

   

March 25,

   

September 24,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 
   

(unaudited)

         
   

(in thousands)

 
                 

Finished goods

  $ 93,409     $ 86,464  

Raw materials

    35,142       41,505  

Packaging materials

    14,610       16,637  

Equipment parts and other

    37,560       35,867  

Total inventories

  $ 180,721     $ 180,473  

 

 

 

Note 11

Segment Information

 

We principally sell our products to the food service and retail supermarket industries. Sales and results of our frozen beverages business are monitored separately from the balance of our food service business because of different distribution and capital requirements. We maintain separate and discrete financial information for the three operating segments mentioned above which is available to our Chief Operating Decision Maker.

 

Our reportable segments are Food Service, Retail Supermarkets and Frozen Beverages. All inter-segment net sales and expenses have been eliminated in computing net sales and operating income. These segments are described below.

 

Food Service

 

The primary products sold by the food service segment are soft pretzels, frozen novelties, churros, handheld products and baked goods. Our customers in the food service segment include snack bars and food stands in chain, department and discount stores; malls and shopping centers; casual dining restaurants, fast food outlets; stadiums and sports arenas; leisure and theme parks; convenience stores; movie theatres; warehouse club stores; schools, colleges and other institutions. Within the food service industry, our products are purchased by the consumer primarily for consumption at the point-of-sale or for take-away.

 

Retail Supermarkets

 

The primary products sold to the retail supermarket channel are soft pretzel products – including SUPERPRETZEL, frozen novelties including LUIGI’S Real Italian Ice, MINUTE MAID Juice Bars and Soft Frozen Lemonade, WHOLE FRUIT frozen fruit bars and sorbet, DOGSTERS, PHILLY SWIRL cups and sticks, ICEE Squeeze-Up Tubes and handheld products. Within the retail supermarket channel, our frozen and prepackaged products are purchased by the consumer for consumption at home.

 

Frozen Beverages

 

The Company markets frozen beverages primarily under the names ICEE, SLUSH PUPPIE and PARROT ICE which are sold primarily in the United States, Mexico and Canada. We also provide repair and maintenance service to customers for customers’ owned equipment.

 

15

 

The Chief Operating Decision Maker for Food Service, Retail Supermarkets and Frozen Beverages reviews monthly detailed operating income statements and sales reports in order to assess performance and allocate resources to each individual segment. Sales and operating income are key variables monitored by the Chief Operating Decision Maker and management when determining each segment’s, and the Company’s, financial condition and operating performance. In addition, the Chief Operating Decision Maker reviews and evaluates depreciation, capital spending and assets of each segment on a quarterly basis to monitor cash flow and asset needs of each segment. Information regarding the operations in these three reportable segments is as follows:

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

   

March 25,

   

March 26,

 
   

2023

   

2022

   

2023

   

2022

 
   

(unaudited)

   

(unaudited)

 
   

(in thousands)

   

(in thousands)

 
Sales to external customers:                                
Food Service                                

Soft pretzels

  $ 55,492     $ 43,261     $ 107,715     $ 93,682  

Frozen novelties

    26,607       7,305       48,372       15,762  

Churros

    24,920       17,447       50,677       36,936  

Handhelds

    20,309       20,506       43,881       39,001  

Bakery

    85,300       83,967       194,248       191,798  

Other

    5,653       3,854       11,685       10,893  

Total Food Service

  $ 218,281     $ 176,340     $ 456,578     $ 388,072  
                                 
Retail Supermarket                                

Soft pretzels

  $ 16,013     $ 15,752     $ 30,498     $ 31,946  

Frozen novelties

    20,770       18,919       38,739       36,721  

Biscuits

    5,858       5,687       13,771       13,958  

Handhelds

    4,099       1,069       6,991       2,345  

Coupon redemption

    (375 )     (726 )     (551 )     (1,622 )

Other

    (5 )     56       (15 )     104  

Total Retail Supermarket

  $ 46,360     $ 40,757     $ 89,433     $ 83,452  
                                 
Frozen Beverages                                

Beverages

  $ 41,799     $ 35,365     $ 80,458     $ 69,128  

Repair and maintenance service

    22,585       21,000       46,412       43,011  

Machines revenue

    8,252       7,542       15,263       15,389  

Other

    577       509       1,053       951  

Total Frozen Beverages

  $ 73,213     $ 64,416     $ 143,186     $ 128,479  
                                 

Consolidated sales

  $ 337,854     $ 281,513     $ 689,197     $ 600,003  
                                 
Depreciation and amortization:                                

Food Service

  $ 9,597     $ 6,670     $ 19,055     $ 13,339  

Retail Supermarket

    492       386       883       752  

Frozen Beverages

    5,351       5,484       10,683       10,960  

Total depreciation and amortization

  $ 15,440     $ 12,540     $ 30,621     $ 25,051  
                                 
Operating Income:                                

Food Service

  $ 5,133     $ 536     $ 11,520     $ 9,537  

Retail Supermarket

    487       1,091       1,598       6,075  

Frozen Beverages

    4,573       2,461       6,403       3,321  

Total operating income

  $ 10,193     $ 4,088     $ 19,521     $ 18,933  
                                 
Capital expenditures:                                

Food Service

  $ 13,744     $ 13,851     $ 38,606     $ 24,084  

Retail Supermarket

    105       1,094       1,479       3,623  

Frozen Beverages

    4,365       4,261       9,039       7,599  

Total capital expenditures

  $ 18,214     $ 19,206     $ 49,124     $ 35,306  
                                 
Assets:                                

Food Service

  $ 910,573     $ 799,710     $ 910,573     $ 799,710  

Retail Supermarket

    12,162       33,206       12,162       33,206  

Frozen Beverages

    302,222       290,412       302,222       290,412  

Total assets

  $ 1,224,957     $ 1,123,328     $ 1,224,957     $ 1,123,328  

 

16

 

 

Note 12

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

 

Our reportable segments are Food Service, Retail Supermarkets and Frozen Beverages.

 

The carrying amounts of acquired intangible assets for the Food Service, Retail Supermarkets and Frozen Beverages segments as of March 25, 2023 and September 24, 2022 are as follows:

 

    March 25, 2023     September 24, 2022  
    Gross             Gross          
   

Carrying

   

Accumulated

   

Carrying

   

Accumulated

 
   

Amount

   

Amortization

   

Amount

   

Amortization

 
   

(in thousands)

 
FOOD SERVICE                                
                                 
Indefinite lived intangible assets                                

Trade names

  $ 85,872     $ -     $ 85,872     $ -  
                                 
Amortized intangible assets                                

Non-compete agreements

    -       -       670       670  

Franchise agreements

    8,500       638       8,500       212  

Customer relationships

    22,900       9,044       22,900       7,790  

Technology

    23,110       1,735       23,110       576  

License and rights

    1,690       1,523       1,690       1,481  

TOTAL FOOD SERVICE

  $ 142,072     $ 12,940     $ 142,742     $ 10,729  
                                 
RETAIL SUPERMARKETS                                
                                 
Indefinite lived intangible assets                                

Trade names

  $ 11,938     $ -     $ 11,938     $ -  
                                 
Amortized intangible Assets                                

Trade names

    -       -       649       649  

Customer relationships

    7,688       6,871       7,907       6,693  

TOTAL RETAIL SUPERMARKETS

  $ 19,626     $ 6,871     $ 20,494     $ 7,342  
                                 
                                 
FROZEN BEVERAGES                                
                                 
Indefinite lived intangible assets                                

Trade names

  $ 9,315     $ -     $ 9,315     $ -  

Distribution rights

    36,100       -       36,100       -  
                                 
Amortized intangible assets                                

Customer relationships

    1,439       617       1,439       545  

Licenses and rights

    1,400       1,177       1,400       1,142  

TOTAL FROZEN BEVERAGES

  $ 48,254     $ 1,794     $ 48,254     $ 1,687  
                                 

CONSOLIDATED

  $ 209,952     $ 21,605     $ 211,490     $ 19,758  

 

Amortizing intangible assets are being amortized by the straight-line method over periods ranging from 2 to 20 years and amortization expense is reflected throughout operating expenses. Aggregate amortization expense of intangible assets for the three months ended March 25, 2023 and March 26, 2022 was $1.7 million and $0.6 million, respectively. Aggregate amortization expense of intangible assets for the six months ended March 25, 2023 and March 26, 2022 was $3.4 million and $1.2 million, respectively.

 

Estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years is approximately $3.3 million in 2023 (excluding the six months ended March 25, 2023), $6.2 million in 2024, $5.6 million in 2025, and 2026, and $4.6 million in 2027.

 

The weighted amortization period of the intangible assets, in total, is 10.4 years. The weighted amortization period by intangible asset class is 10 years for Technology, 10 years for Customer relationships, 20 years for Licenses & rights, and 10 years for Franchise agreements.

 

17

 

Goodwill

 

The carrying amounts of goodwill for the Food Service, Retail Supermarket and Frozen Beverage segments are as follows:

 

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

 

   

Food

   

Retail

   

Frozen

         
   

Service

   

Supermarket

   

Beverages

   

Total

 
           

(in thousands)

         
                                 

March 25, 2023

  $ 124,426     $ 4,146     $ 56,498     $ 185,070  
                                 

September 24, 2022

  $ 123,776     $ 4,146     $ 56,498     $ 184,420  

 

 

Note 13

Investments

 

We have classified our investment securities as marketable securities held to maturity and available for sale. The FASB defines fair value as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. As a basis for considering such assumptions, the FASB has established three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

 

 

Level 1

Observable input such as quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;

 

 

Level 2

Observable inputs, other than Level 1 inputs in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly; and

 

 

Level 3

Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions.

 

Marketable securities held to maturity and available for sale consist primarily of investments in mutual funds, preferred stock, and corporate bonds.  The fair values of mutual funds are based on quoted market prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.  The fair values of preferred stock and corporate bonds are based on quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active.  As a result, preferred stock and corporate bonds are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

As of March 25, 2023, the Company held no held to maturity investment securities.

 

18

 

The amortized cost, unrealized gains and losses, and fair market values of our investment securities available for sale at March 25, 2023 are summarized as follows:

 

           

Gross

   

Gross

   

Fair

 
   

Amortized

   

Unrealized

   

Unrealized

   

Market

 
   

Cost

   

Gains

   

Losses

   

Value

 
   

(in thousands)

 
                                 

Mutual funds

  $ 3,588     $ -     $ 739     $ 2,849  

Preferred stock

    1,519       61       -       1,580  

Total marketable securities available for sale

  $ 5,107     $ 61     $ 739     $ 4,429  

 

The mutual funds seek current income with an emphasis on maintaining low volatility and overall moderate duration. The Fixed-to-Floating Perpetual Preferred Stock generate fixed income to call dates in 2025 and then income is based on a spread above LIBOR if the securities are not called. The mutual funds and Fixed-to-Floating Perpetual Preferred Stock do not have contractual maturities; however, we classify them as long-term assets as it is our intent to hold them for a period of over one year, although we may sell some or all of them depending on presently unanticipated needs for liquidity or market conditions.

 

The amortized cost, unrealized gains and losses, and fair market values of our investment securities held to maturity at September 24, 2022 are summarized as follows:

 

           

Gross

   

Gross

   

Fair

 
   

Amortized

   

Unrealized

   

Unrealized

   

Market

 
   

Cost

   

Gains

   

Losses

   

Value

 
   

(in thousands)

 
                                 

Corporate bonds

    4,011       -       21       3,990  

Total marketable securities held to maturity

  $ 4,011     $ -     $ 21     $ 3,990  

 

The amortized cost, unrealized gains and losses, and fair market values of our investment securities available for sale at September 24, 2022 are summarized as follows:

 

           

Gross

   

Gross

   

Fair

 
   

Amortized

   

Unrealized

   

Unrealized

   

Market

 
   

Cost

   

Gains

   

Losses

   

Value

 
   

(in thousands)

 
                                 

Mutual funds

  $ 3,588     $ -     $ 742     $ 2,846  

Preferred stock

    2,816       46       -       2,862  

Total marketable securities available for sale

  $ 6,404     $ 46     $ 742     $ 5,708  

 

19

 

The amortized cost and fair value of the Company’s held to maturity securities by contractual maturity at March 25, 2023 and September 24, 2022 are summarized as follows:

 

   

March 25, 2023

   

September 24, 2022

 
                                 
           

Fair

           

Fair

 
   

Amortized

   

Market

   

Amortized

   

Market

 
   

Cost

   

Value

   

Cost

   

Value

 
   

(in thousands)

 
                                 

Due in one year or less

  $ -     $ -     $ 4,011     $ 3,990  

Due after one year through five years

    -       -       -       -  

Due after five years through ten years

    -       -       -       -  

Total held to maturity securities

  $ -     $ -     $ 4,011     $ 3,990  

Less current portion

    -       -       4,011       3,990  

Long term held to maturity securities

  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  

 

Proceeds from the redemption and sale of marketable securities were $2.0 million and $5.3 million in the three and six months ended March 25, 2023 and were $4.3 million and $11.5 million in the three and six months ended March 26, 2022, respectively. Gains of $59,000 and $22,000 were recorded in the three and six months ended March 25, 2023, and losses of $25,000 and $69,000 were recorded in the three and six months ended March 26, 2022. Included in the gains and losses were an unrealized gain of $19,000 and an unrealized loss of $58,000 in the six months ended March 25, 2023 and March 26, 2022, respectively. An unrealized gain of $59,000 and an unrealized loss of $53,000 were recorded in the three months ended March 25, 2023, and March 26, 2022, respectively. We use the specific identification method to determine the cost of securities sold.

 

 

 

Note 14

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

Changes to the components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25, 2023

   

March 25, 2023

 
   

(in thousands)

   

(in thousands)

 
                 
   

Foreign Currency

   

Foreign Currency

 
   

Translation Adjustments

   

Translation Adjustments

 
                 

Beginning balance

  $ (12,842 )   $ (13,713 )
                 
Other comprehensive income     1,068       1,939  

Ending balance

  $ (11,774 )   $ (11,774 )

 

 

   

Three Months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 26, 2022

   

March 26, 2022

 
   

(in thousands)

   

(in thousands)

 
                 
   

Foreign Currency

   

Foreign Currency

 
   

Translation Adjustments

   

Translation Adjustments

 
                 

Beginning balance

  $ (13,827 )   $ (13,383 )
                 
Other comprehensive income     546       102  

Ending balance

  $ (13,281 )   $ (13,281 )

 

20

 

 

Note 15

Leases

 

General Lease Description

 

We have operating leases with initial noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year covering the rental of various facilities and equipment. Certain of these leases contain renewal options and some provide options to purchase during the lease term. Our operating leases include leases for real estate for some of our office and manufacturing facilities as well as manufacturing and non-manufacturing equipment used in our business. The remaining lease terms for these operating leases range from 1month to 12 years.

 

We have finance leases with initial noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year covering the rental of various equipment. These leases are generally for manufacturing and non-manufacturing equipment used in our business. The remaining lease terms for these finance leases range from 1 year to 6 years.

 

Significant Assumptions and Judgments

 

Contract Contains a Lease

In evaluating our contracts to determine whether a contract is or contains a lease, we considered the following:

 

 

Whether explicitly or implicitly identified assets have been deployed in the contract; and

 

 

Whether we obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from the use of that underlying asset, and we can direct how and for what purpose the asset is used during the term of the contract.

 

Allocation of Consideration

In determining how to allocate consideration between lease and non-lease components in a contract that was deemed to contain a lease, we used judgment and consistent application of assumptions to reasonably allocate the consideration.

 

Options to Extend or Terminate Leases

We have leases which contain options to extend or terminate the leases. On a lease-by-lease basis, we have determined if the extension should be considered reasonably certain to be exercised and thus a right-of-use asset and a lease liability should be recorded.

 

Discount Rate

The discount rate for leases, if not explicitly stated in the lease, is the incremental borrowing rate, which is the rate of interest that we would have to pay to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term an amount equal to the lease payments in a similar economic environment.

 

We used the discount rate to calculate the present value of the lease liability at the date of adoption. In the development of the discount rate, we considered our incremental borrowing rate as provided by our lender which was based on cash collateral and credit risk specific to us, and our lease portfolio characteristics.

 

As of March 25, 2023, the weighted-average discount rate of our operating and finance leases was 3.5% and 3.8%, respectively. As of September 24, 2022, the weighted-average discount rate of our operating and finance leases was 3.3% and 3.2%, respectively.

 

Practical Expedients and Accounting Policy Elections

 

We elected the package of practical expedients that permits us not to reassess our prior conclusions about lease identification, lease classification and initial direct costs and made an accounting policy election to exclude short-term leases with an initial term of 12 months or less from our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

21

 

Amounts Recognized in the Financial Statements

 

The components of lease expense were as follows:

 

   

Three months ended

March 25, 2023

   

Three months ended

March 26, 2022

   

Six months ended

March 25, 2023

   

Six months ended

March 26, 2022

 

Operating lease cost in Cost of goods sold and Operating Expenses

  $ 3,778     $ 3,922     $ 7,750     $ 7,920  
Finance lease cost:                                

Amortization of assets in Cost of goods sold and Operating Expenses

  $ 22     $ 50     $ 56     $ 122  

Interest on lease liabilities in Interest expense & other

    2       2       4       7  

Total finance lease cost

  $ 24     $ 52     $ 60     $ 129  

Short-term lease cost in Cost of goods sold and Operating Expenses

    -       -       -       -  

Total net lease cost

  $ 3,802     $ 3,974     $ 7,810     $ 8,049  

 

Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases is as follows:

 

   

March 25, 2023

   

September 24, 2022

 
Operating Leases                

Operating lease right-of-use assets

  $ 50,252     $ 51,137  
                 

Current operating lease liabilities

  $ 13,507     $ 13,524  

Noncurrent operating lease liabilities

    41,642       42,660  

Total operating lease liabilities

  $ 55,149     $ 56,184  
                 
Finance Leases                

Finance lease right-of-use assets in Property, plant and equipment, net

  $ 766     $ 328  
                 

Current finance lease liabilities

  $ 226     $ 124  

Noncurrent finance lease liabilities

    702       254  

Total finance lease liabilities

  $ 928     $ 378  

 

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases is as follows:

 

   

Three months ended

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25, 2023

   

March 26, 2022

   

March 25, 2023

   

March 26, 2022

 
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:                                

Operating cash flows from operating leases

  $ 3,861     $ 3,970     $ 7,779     $ 8,008  

Operating cash flows from finance leases

  $ 2     $ 2     $ 4     $ 7  

Financing cash flows from finance leases

  $ 32     $ 37     $ 71     $ 111  
                                 

Supplemental noncash information on lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use assets

  $ 3,821     $ 5,922     $ 6,497     $ 7,065  

Supplemental noncash information on lease liabilities removed due to purchase of leased asset

  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  

 

As of March 25, 2023, the maturities of lease liabilities were as follows:

 

   

Operating Leases

   

Finance Leases

 

Six months ending September 30, 2023

  $ 8,137     $ 144  

2024

    13,794       244  

2025

    10,263       189  

2026

    6,998       154  

2027

    5,967       153  

Thereafter

    15,960       137  

Total minimum payments

    61,119       1,021  

Less amount representing interest

    (5,970 )     (93 )

Present value of lease obligations

  $ 55,149     $ 928  

 

As of March 25, 2023 the weighted-average remaining term of our operating and finance leases was 5.7 years and 5.6 years, respectively. As of September 24, 2022, the weighted average remaining term of our operating and finance leases was 5.8 years and 3.3 years, respectively.

 

22

 

 

Note 16

Related Parties

 

We have related party expenses for distribution and shipping related costs with NFI Industries, Inc. Our director, Sidney R. Brown, is CEO and an owner of NFI Industries, Inc. The Company paid $13.3 million and $27.6 million to NFI in the three and six months ended March 25, 2023 and paid $2.9 million and $4.0 million through the three and six months ended March 26, 2022. Of the amounts paid to NFI, the amount related to management services performed by NFI was $0.2 million and $0.3 million in the three and six months ended March 25, 2023, and $0.2 million and $0.3 in the three and six months ended March 26, 2022. The remainder of the costs related to amounts that were passed through to the third-party distribution and shipping vendors that are being managed on the Company’s behalf by NFI. The agreements with NFI include terms that are consistent with those that we believe would have been negotiated at an arm’s length with an independent party. As of March 25, 2023 and September 24, 2022, our consolidated balance sheet included related party trade payables of approximately $2.8 million and $2.9 million, respectively.

 

 

Item 2. Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Statements made in this Form 10-Q that are not historical or current facts are “forward-looking statements” made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”). These statements often can be identified by the use of terms such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “approximate,” “intend,” or “continue,” or, the negative thereof. We intend that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe of the Act and the Exchange Act. We wish to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Any forward-looking statements represent management’s best judgment as to what may occur in the future. However, forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and important factors beyond our control that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from historical results of operations and events and those presently anticipated or projected. We disclaim any obligation subsequently to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statement or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

 

Objective

 

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is intended to provide a reader of our financial statements with a narrative form from the perspective of our management regarding our financial condition and results of operations, liquidity and certain other factors that may affect our future results. The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and within the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed for the fiscal year ended September 24, 2022.

 

Business Overview

 

The Company manufactures snack foods and distributes frozen beverages which it markets nationally to the foodservice and retail supermarket industries. The Company’s principal snack food products are soft pretzels, frozen novelties, churros and bakery products. We believe we are the largest manufacturer of soft pretzels in the United States. Other snack food products include funnel cake and handheld products. The Company’s principal frozen beverage products are the ICEE brand frozen carbonated beverage and the SLUSH PUPPIE brand frozen non-carbonated beverage,

 

The Company’s Food Service and Frozen Beverages sales are made principally to foodservice customers including snack bar and food stand locations in leading chain, department, discount, warehouse club and convenience stores; malls and shopping centers; fast food and casual dining restaurants; stadiums and sports arenas; leisure and theme parks; movie theaters; independent retailers; and schools, colleges and other institutions. The Company’s retail supermarket customers are primarily supermarket chains.

 

23

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Three and six months ended March 25, 2023

 

The following discussion provides a review of results for the three and six months ended March 25, 2023 as compared with the three and six months ended March 26, 2022.

 

Summary of Results

 

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

         

March 25,

   

March 26,

       
   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

 
   

(in thousands)

         

(in thousands)

       
                                             

Net Sales

  $ 337,854     $ 281,513     20.0 %     $ 689,197     $ 600,003     14.9 %  
                                             

Cost of goods sold

    247,470       216,165     14.5 %       507,958       455,280     11.6 %  

Gross Profit

    90,384       65,348     38.3 %       181,239       144,723     25.2 %  
                                             

Operating expenses

                                           

Marketing

    24,017       21,036     14.2 %       47,716       41,943     13.8 %  

Distribution

    38,188       28,349     34.7 %       80,237       61,664     30.1 %  

Administrative

    17,919       11,719     52.9 %       34,310       22,088     55.3 %  

Other general expense (income)

    67       156     (57.1) %       (545

)

    95     (673.7) %  

Total Operating Expenses

    80,191       61,260     30.9 %       161,718       125,790     28.6 %  
                                             

Operating Income

    10,193       4,088     149.3 %       19,521       18,933     3.1 %  
                                             

Other income (expense)

                                           

Investment income

    401       160     150.6 %       1,086       431     152.0 %  

Interest expense

    (1,334

)

    (57

)

  2240.4 %       (2,383

)

    (75

)

  3077.3 %  
                                             

Earnings before income taxes

    9,260       4,191     120.9 %       18,224       19,289     (5.5) %  
                                             

Income tax expense

    2,389       920     159.7 %       4,720       4,927     (4.2) %  
                                             

NET EARNINGS

  $ 6,871     $ 3,271     110.1 %     $ 13,504     $ 14,362     (6.0) %  

 

 

Comparisons as a Percentage of Net Sales

 

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

   

Basis Pt

   

March 25,

   

March 26,

   

Basis Pt

 
   

2023

   

2022

   

Chg

   

2023

   

2022

   

Chg

 

Gross profit

  26.8 %     23.2 %       360     26.3 %     24.1 %       220  

Marketing

  7.1 %     7.5 %       (40

)

  6.9 %     7.0 %       (10

)

Distribution

  11.3 %     10.1 %       120     11.6 %     10.3 %       130  

Administrative

  5.3 %     4.2 %       110     5.0 %     3.7 %       130  

Operating income

  3.0 %     1.5 %       150     2.8 %     3.2 %       (40

)

Earnings before income taxes

  2.7 %     1.5 %       120     2.6 %     3.2 %       (60

)

Net earnings

  2.0 %     1.2 %       80     2.0 %     2.4 %       (40

)

 

Net Sales

 

Net sales increased by $56.3 million, or 20.0%, to $337.9 million for the three months ended March 25, 2023. Net sales in the period included $16.0 million of net sales from Dippin’ Dots. Net sales increased by $89.2 million, or 14.9%, to $689.2 million for the six months ended March 25, 2023. Net sales in the period included $29.3 million of net sales from Dippin’ Dots. Organic sales growth, across both the three months and six months ended March 25, 2023, was driven by growth across all three of the Company’s business segments, led by our core products including soft pretzels, churros, frozen novelties and frozen beverages.

 

Gross Profit

 

Gross Profit increased by $25.0 million, or 38.3%, to $90.4 million for the three months ended March 25, 2023. As a percentage of sales, gross profit increased from 23.2% to 26.8%. While inflationary trends have gradually improved during the fiscal year, key ingredients including flour, oils, eggs, meats, sugar and dairy continued to experience inflationary pressures compared with the same quarter last year, with average raw material costs up approximately 9%. Three pricing actions implemented in fiscal 2022, along with the initial benefits of our operating initiatives, and improved cost management and productivity, helped to offset the impact of the inflationary pressures noted above.

 

24

 

Gross Profit increased by $36.5 million, or 25.2%, to $181.2 million for the six months ended March 25, 2023. As a percentage of sales, gross profit increased from 24.1% to 26.3%. Key ingredients including flour, oils, eggs, meats, sugar and dairy continued to experience inflationary pressures compared with the same six-month period last year, with average raw material costs up approximately 15%. Three pricing actions implemented in fiscal 2022, along with the initial benefits of our operating initiatives, and improved cost management and productivity, helped to offset the impact of the inflationary pressures noted above.

 

Operating Expenses

 

Operating Expenses increased $18.9 million, or 30.9%, to $80.2 million for the three months ended March 25, 2023. As a percentage of sales, operating expenses increased from 21.8% to 23.7%, primarily reflecting the ongoing inflationary pressures across distribution and administrative costs, as well as the impact of Dippin’ Dots. As a percentage of sales, distribution expenses increased from 10.1% to 11.3%, reflecting inflationary pressures noted in fuel and outbound freight. As a percentage of sales, marketing expenses decreased from 7.5% to 7.1%. As a percentage of sales, general and administrative expenses increased from 4.2% to 5.3%, with the increase largely attributable to the impact of Dippin’ Dots.

 

Operating Expenses increased $35.9 million, or 28.6%, to $161.7 million for the six months ended March 25, 2023. As a percentage of sales, operating expenses increased from 21.0% to 23.5%, primarily reflecting the ongoing inflationary pressures across distribution and administrative costs, as well as the impact of Dippin’ Dots. As a percentage of sales, distribution expenses increased from 10.3% to 11.6%, reflecting inflationary pressures noted in fuel and outbound freight. As a percentage of sales, marketing expenses remained relatively flat, decreasing slightly from 7.0% to 6.9%. As a percentage of sales, general and administrative expenses increased from 3.7% to 5.0%, with the increase largely attributable to the impact of Dippin’ Dots.

 

Other Income and Expense

 

Investment income increased by $0.2 million to $0.4 million and by $0.7 million to $1.1 million for the three months, and six months, ended March 25, 2023, respectively. The increases were primary due to the improving interest rate environment in fiscal 2023.

 

Interest expense increase by $1.3 million to $1.3 million and by $2.3 million to $2.4 million for the three months, and six months, ended March 25, 2023, respectively, due to the Company’s outstanding borrowings on the Amended Credit Agreement.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Income tax expense increased by $1.5 million, or 159.7%, to $2.4 million for the three months ended March 25, 2023. The effective tax rate was 25.8% as compared with 21.9% in the prior year period, with the increase due to the impact of tax benefits on stock-based compensation expense in the prior year period.

 

Income tax expense decreased by $0.2 million, or 4.2% to $4.7 million for the six months ended March 25, 2023. The effective tax rate was 25.9% as compared with 25.5% in the prior year period.

 

Net Earnings

 

Net earnings increased by $3.6 million, or 110.1%, for the three months ended March 25, 2023, due to the aforementioned items.

 

Net earnings decreased by $0.9 million, or 6.0%, for the six months ended March 25, 2023, due to the aforementioned items

 

There are many factors which can impact our net earnings from year to year and in the long run, among which are the supply and cost of raw materials and labor, insurance costs, factors impacting sales as noted above, the continuing consolidation of our customers, our ability to manage our manufacturing, marketing and distribution activities, our ability to make and integrate acquisitions and changes in tax laws and interest rates.

 

25

 

Business Segment Discussion

 

We operate in three segments: Food Service, Retail Supermarket, and Frozen Beverages. The following table is a summary of sales and operating income, which is how we measure segment profit.

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

         

March 25,

   

March 26,

       
   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

 
   

(in thousands)

         

(in thousands)

       

Net Sales

                                           

Food Service

  $ 218,281     $ 176,340     23.8 %     $ 456,578     $ 388,072     17.7 %  

Retail Supermarket

    46,360       40,757     13.7 %       89,433       83,452     7.2 %  

Frozen Beverages

    73,213       64,416     13.7 %       143,186       128,479     11.4 %  

Total Sales

  $ 337,854     $ 281,513     20.0 %     $ 689,197     $ 600,003     14.9 %  

 

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

         

March 25,

   

March 26,

       
   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

 
   

(in thousands)

         

(in thousands)

       
                                             

Operating Income

                                           

Food Service

  $ 5,133     $ 536     857.6 %     $ 11,520     $ 9,537     20.8 %  

Retail Supermarket

    487       1,091     (55.4) %       1,598       6,075     (73.7) %  

Frozen Beverages

    4,573       2,461     85.8 %       6,403       3,321     92.8 %  

Total Operating Income

  $ 10,193     $ 4,088     149.3 %     $ 19,521     $ 18,933     3.1 %  

 

 

Food Service Segment Results

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

         

March 25,

   

March 26,

       
   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

 
   

(in thousands)

         

(in thousands)

       
                                             

Food Service Sales to External Customers

                                           

Soft pretzels

  $ 55,492     $ 43,261     28.3 %     $ 107,715     $ 93,682     15.0 %  

Frozen novelties

    26,607       7,305     264.2 %       48,372       15,762     206.9 %  

Churros

    24,920       17,447     42.8 %       50,677       36,936     37.2 %  

Handhelds

    20,309       20,506     (1.0) %       43,881       39,001     12.5 %  

Bakery

    85,300       83,967     1.6 %       194,248       191,798     1.3 %  

Other

    5,653       3,854     46.7 %       11,685       10,893     7.3 %  

Total Food Service

  $ 218,281     $ 176,340     23.8 %     $ 456,578     $ 388,072     17.7 %  
                                             

Food Service Operating Income

  $ 5,133     $ 536     857.6 %     $ 11,520     $ 9,537     20.8 %  

 

26

 

Sales to food service customers increased $41.9 million, or 24%, to $218.3 million for the three months ended March 25, 2023, which included approximately $16.0 million in sales from Dippin’ Dots. Soft pretzels sales to food service increased 28% to $55.5 million. Frozen novelties sales increased 264% to $26.6 million, largely driven by Dippin’ Dots sales. Churro sales increased 43% to $24.9 million led by customer expansion and growing menu penetration. Sales of bakery products increased by 2% to $85.3 million. Sales of handhelds decreased by 1% to $20.3 million.

 

Sales of new products in the first twelve months since their introduction were minimal in the quarter. Sales in the quarter benefited from the impact of the prior fiscal year’s price increases, along with modest increases in volume.

 

Operating income in our Food Service segment increased $4.6 million in the quarter to $5.1 million, driven by stronger sales and improved gross margin performance.

 

Sales to food service customers increased $68.5 million, or 18%, to $456.6 million for the six months ended March 25, 2023, which included approximately $29.3 million in sales from Dippin’ Dots. Soft pretzels sales to food service increased 15% to $107.7 million. Frozen novelties sales increased 207% to $48.4 million, largely driven by Dippin’ Dots sales. Churro sales increased 37% to $50.7 million led by customer expansion and growing menu penetration. Sales of bakery products increase by 1% to $194.2 million. Sales of handhelds increased by 13% to $43.9 million.

 

Sales of new products in the first twelve months since their introduction were minimal in the six months ended March 25, 2023. Price increases benefited sales in the six-month period, and more than offset some volume declines seen in certain product categories.

 

Operating income in our Food Service segment increased $2.0 million in the six months ended March 25, 2023, to $11.5 million, driven by stronger sales and improved gross margin performance.

 

 

Retail Supermarket Segment Results

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

         

March 25,

   

March 26,

       
   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

 
   

(in thousands)

         

(in thousands)

       
                                             

Retail Supermarket Sales to External Customers

                                           

Soft pretzels

  $ 16,013     $ 15,752     1.7 %     $ 30,498     $ 31,946     (4.5) %  

Frozen novelties

    20,770       18,919     9.8 %       38,739       36,721     5.5 %  

Biscuits

    5,858       5,687     3.0 %       13,771       13,958     (1.3) %  

Handhelds

    4,099       1,069     283.4 %       6,991       2,345     198.1 %  

Coupon redemption

    (375

)

    (726

)

  (48.3) %       (551

)

    (1,622

)

  (66.0) %  

Other

    (5

)

    56     (108.9) %       (15

)

    104     (114.4) %  

Total Retail Supermarket

  $ 46,360     $ 40,757     13.7 %     $ 89,433     $ 83,452     7.2 %  
                                             

Retail Supermarket Operating Income

  $ 487     $ 1,091     (55.4) %     $ 1,598     $ 6,075     (73.7) %  

 

Sales of products to retail customers increased $5.6 million, or 14%, to $46.4 million for the three months ended March 25, 2023. Soft pretzel sales increased 2% to $16.0 million, frozen novelties sales increase 10% to $20.8 million, biscuit sales increased 3% to $5.9 million, and handheld sales increased 283% to $4.1 million with the increase in handheld sales largely driven by expansion with a major retailer. Sales of new products in retail supermarkets were minimal in the quarter. Sales in the quarter benefited from the impact of the prior fiscal year’s price increases, along with modest increases in volume.

 

27

 

Operating income in our Retail Supermarkets segment decreased $0.6 million in the quarter to $0.5 million primarily driven by gross margin challenges due to higher promotions and allowances.

 

Sales of products to retail customers increased $6.0 million, or 7%, to $89.4 million for the six months ended March 25, 2023. Soft pretzel sales decreased 5% to $30.5 million, frozen novelties sales increased 6% to $38.7 million, biscuit sales decreased 1% to $13.8 million, and handheld sales increased 198% to $7.0 million. Sales of new products in retail supermarkets were minimal in the six months ended March 25, 2023. Price increases benefited sales in the six-month period and helped to offset volume declines seen in certain product categories.

 

Operating income in our Retail Supermarkets segment decreased $4.5 million in the six months ended March 25, 2023 to $1.6 million primarily driven by gross margin challenges due to higher promotions and allowances, and higher distribution expenses.

 

Frozen Beverages Segment Results

 

   

Three months ended

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

         

March 25,

   

March 26,

       
   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

   

2023

   

2022

   

% Change

 
   

(in thousands)

         

(in thousands)

       
                                             

Frozen Beverages

                                           

Beverages

  $ 41,799     $ 35,365     18.2 %     $ 80,458     $ 69,128     16.4 %  

Repair and maintenance service

    22,585       21,000     7.5 %       46,412       43,011     7.9 %  

Machines revenue

    8,252       7,542     9.4 %       15,263       15,389     (0.8) %  

Other

    577       509     13.4 %       1,053       951     10.7 %  

Total Frozen Beverages

  $ 73,213     $ 64,416     13.7 %     $ 143,186     $ 128,479     11.4 %  
                                             

Frozen Beverages Operating Income

  $ 4,573     $ 2,461     85.8 %     $ 6,403     $ 3,321     92.8 %  

 

Frozen beverage and related product sales increased $8.8 million, or 14%, in the three months ended March 25, 2023. Beverage related sales increased 18% to $41.8 million. Gallon sales were up 12% for the three months led by continued improving trends in travel, sporting events, concerts and amusement parks and theater. Service revenue increased 8% to $22.6 million and machine revenue (primarily sales of frozen beverage machines) increased 9% to $8.3 million due to strong customer installation volume.

 

Operating income in our Frozen Beverage segment increased $2.1 million in the quarter to $4.6 million, as strong sales drove leverage across the business.

 

Frozen beverage and related product sales increased $14.7 million, or 11%, in the six months ended March 25, 2023. Beverage related sales increased 16% to $80.5 million. Gallon sales were up 7% for the six months ended March 25, 2023, led by continued improving trends in travel, sporting events, concerts and amusement parks and theater. Sales remained strong for the period despite theater related volume declines in the first fiscal quarter due to the lower performing releases and weather-related impacts during the holiday season. Service revenue increased 8% to $46.4 million. Machine revenue (primarily sales of frozen beverage machines) decreased 1% to $15.3 million, primarily due to the comparative timing of customer installations in the first fiscal quarter.

 

Operating income in our Frozen Beverage segment increased $3.1 million in the six months ended March 25, 2023 to $6.4 million, as strong sales drove leverage across the business.

 

28

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Although there are many factors that could impact our operating cash flow, most notably net earnings, we believe that our future operating cash flow, along with our borrowing capacity, our current cash and cash equivalent balances and our investment securities is sufficient to satisfy our cash requirements over the next twelve months and beyond, as well as to fund future growth and expansion.

 

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Cash flows from operating activities

               

Net earnings

  $ 13,504     $ 14,362  

Non-cash items in net income:

               

Depreciation of fixed assets

    27,236       23,868  

Amortization of intangibles and deferred costs

    3,385       1,183  
(Gain) loss from disposals of property & equipment     (354 )     100  

Share-based compensation

    2,552       2,350  

Deferred income taxes

    (787 )     (251 )
(Gain) loss on marketable securities     (22 )     69  

Other

    (255 )     (184 )

Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects from purchase of companies

    (9,588 )     (67,932 )
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities   $ 35,671     $ (26,435 )

 

 

The increase in depreciation of fixed assets was largely due to prior year purchases of property plant and equipment, as well as depreciation expense related to assets acquired in the fiscal 2022 Dippin’ Dots acquisition.

 

 

The increase in amortization of intangibles and deferred costs was related to intangible assets acquired in the fiscal 2022 Dippin’ Dots acquisition.

 

 

The $0.4 million gain from disposals of property & equipment primarily related to the sale of a building.

 

 

The net cash outflow of $9.6 million in cash flows associated with changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects from purchase of companies, in the six months ended March 25, 2023, was primarily driven by a decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $25.7 million, offset somewhat by a $10.5 million decrease in accounts receivable and a $4.8 million decrease in prepaid expenses. In the prior year, the net $67.9 million cash outflow was largely attributable to increases in inventory of $36.5 million and increases in accounts receivable of $25.0 million.

 

29

 

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Cash flows from investing activities

               

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

  $ (49,124 )   $ (35,306 )

Proceeds from redemption and sales of marketable securities

    5,300       11,526  

Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment

    797       589  

Net cash used in investing activities

  $ (43,027 )   $ (23,191 )

 

 

Purchases of property, plant and equipment include spending for production growth, in addition to acquiring new equipment, infrastructure replacements, and upgrades to maintain competitive standing and position us for future opportunities. The increase was primarily due to increased spend for new lines at various plants aimed at increasing capacity.

 

 

The decrease in proceeds from redemption and sales of marketable securities was due to a strategic decision to no longer re-invest redeemed proceeds into marketable securities given the low interest rate environment.

 

   

Six months ended

 
   

March 25,

   

March 26,

 
   

2023

   

2022

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Cash flows from financing activities

               

Proceeds from issuance of stock

  $ 4,059     $ 11,741  

Borrowings under credit facility

    92,000       -  

Repayment of borrowings under credit facility

    (55,000 )     -  

Payments on finance lease obligations

    (71 )     (111 )

Payment of cash dividends

    (26,914 )     (24,163 )

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

  $ 14,074     $ (12,533 )

 

 

The decrease in proceeds from issuance of stock was primarily due to a lower rate of option exercises in the six months ended March 25, 2023 compared with the six months ended March 26, 2022.

 

 

Borrowings under credit facility and repayment of borrowings under credit facility relate to the Company’s cash draws and repayments made in the six months ended March 25, 2023 to primarily fund working capital needs.

 

 

Dividends paid increased as our quarterly dividend was raised during fiscal 2022.

 

Liquidity

 

As of March 25, 2023, we had $43.3 million of Cash and Cash Equivalents, and $4.4 million of Marketable Securities.

 

In December 2021, the Company entered into an amended and restated loan agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with our existing banks which provided for up to a $50 million revolving credit facility repayable in December 2026.

 

30

 

Interest accrues, at the Company’s election, at (i) the BSBY Rate (as defined in the Credit Agreement) plus an applicable margin, based upon the Consolidated Net Leverage Ratio, as defined in the Credit Agreement, or (ii) the Alternate Base Rate (a rate based on the higher of (a) the prime rate announced from time-to-time by the Administrative Agent, (b) the Federal Reserve System’s federal funds rate, plus 0.50% or (c) the Daily BSBY Rate, plus an applicable margin). The Alternate Base Rate is defined in the Credit Agreement.

 

The Credit Agreement requires the Company to comply with various affirmative and negative covenants, including without limitation (i) covenants to maintain a minimum specified interest coverage ratio and maximum specified net leverage ratio, and (ii) subject to certain exceptions, covenants that prevent or restrict the Company’s ability to pay dividends, engage in certain mergers or acquisitions, make certain investments or loans, incur future indebtedness, alter its capital structure or line of business, prepay subordinated indebtedness, engage in certain transactions with affiliates, or amend its organizational documents. As of March 25, 2023, the Company is in compliance with all financial covenants of the Credit Agreement.

 

On June 21, 2022, the Company entered into an amendment to the Credit Agreement, the “Amended Credit Agreement” which provided for an incremental increase of $175 million in available borrowings. The Amended Credit Agreement also includes an option to increase the size of the revolving credit facility by up to an amount not to exceed in the aggregate the greater of $225 million or $50 million, plus the Consolidated EBITDA of the Borrowers, subject to the satisfaction of certain terms and conditions.

 

As of March 25, 2023, we had $92.0 million of outstanding borrowings drawn on the Amended Credit Agreement. As of March 25, 2023, we had $123.2 million of additional borrowing capacity, after giving effect to the $9.8 million of letters of credit outstanding.

 

Recently Issued and Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

 

See Note 8 to the condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-Q for a discussion of recently adopted accounting guidance and other new accounting guidance.

 

Critical Accounting Estimates

 

We consider revenue recognition, allowance for doubtful receivables, valuation of goodwill, valuation of long-lived assets and other intangible assets, insurance reserves, income taxes, and business combinations to be critical accounting estimates. These policies are summarized in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 24, 2022. These critical accounting policies require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated condensed financial statements and accompanying notes.

 

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

There has been no material change in the Company’s assessment of its sensitivity to market risk since its presentation set forth, in item 7a. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk,” in its 2022 annual report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC.

 

31

 

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

 

The Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of the Company (its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, respectively) have concluded, based on their evaluation as of March 25, 2023, that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports filed or submitted by it under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in such reports is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

There has been no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended March 25, 2023, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. During the fiscal third quarter of 2022, the Company completed the acquisition of Dippin’ Dots. As permitted by SEC staff interpretive guidance that an assessment of a recently acquired business may be omitted from the scope of evaluation for a period of up to one year following the acquisition, management excluded Dippin’ Dots from its interim evaluation of internal controls over financial reporting.

 

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is subject, from time to time, to certain legal proceedings and claims that arise from our business. As of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the Company does not expect that any such proceedings will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

 

For information on risk factors, please refer to “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 24, 2022. The risks identified in that report have not changed in any material respect.

 

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

 

None

 

32

 

Item 6.

Exhibits

 

Exhibit No.

 

  10.1 J & J Snack Foods Corp. 2022 Long-Term Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on February 14, 2023).
  10.2 Executive Employment Agreement, dated February 14, 2023, by and between J & J Snack Foods Corp. and Daniel Fachner (Incorporated by reference to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on February 17, 2023).
 

31.1

Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

31.2

Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

32.1

Certification Pursuant to the 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

32.2

Certification Pursuant to the 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.1

The following financial information from J&J Snack Foods Corp.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 25, 2023, formatted in iXBRL (Inline extensible Business Reporting Language):

 

  (i)

Consolidated Balance Sheets,

 

(ii)

Consolidated Statements of Earnings,

 

(iii)

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income,

  (iv)

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and

  (v)

the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

104

Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and containing in Exhibit 101)

 

33

 

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.

 

J & J SNACK FOODS CORP.       

 

Dated: May 4, 2023

/s/ Dan Fachner

 

Dan Fachner

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

 

 

Dated: May 4, 2023

/s/ Ken A. Plunk

 

Ken A. Plunk, Senior Vice

 

President and Chief Financial Officer

 

(Principal Financial Officer)

 

(Principal Accounting Officer)

 

34