form10q3q09.htm

 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
 
FORM 10-Q
 
 
[ X ]              QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 For the quarterly period ended July 1, 2009
 
OR
 
[    ]            TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from __________  to  _________
 
Commission file number 0-8445
 
 THE STEAK N SHAKE COMPANY
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
INDIANA
37-0684070
(State or other jurisdiction
(I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)
 
36 S. Pennsylvania Street, Suite 500
 
Indianapolis, Indiana
46204
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip code)
 (317) 633-4100
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes   X  No___
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).Yes       No___
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large accelerated filer  ___
Accelerated filer 
Non-accelerated filer ___ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company ___
 
 
 
As of August 5, 2009 28,812,934 shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, $.50 par value, were outstanding.
 

 
THE STEAK N SHAKE COMPANY
 
FORM 10-Q
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
         
Page
               
             
   
3
                     
   
4
                     
   
5
                     
       
6
                     
 
15
                     
 
22
                     
         
22
                     
                     
           
       
       
23
                 
       
23
                 
  ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS 23
                 
           
24
                     
                     
           
25
 
 
2

Table of Contents
 
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
 
The Steak n Shake Company
           
(Amounts in $000s except share and per share data)
           
   
July 1,
   
September 24,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(Unaudited)
       
Assets:
           
Current assets
           
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
37,843
   
$
6,855
 
Receivables, net of allowances of $539 (2009) and $341 (2008)
   
8,011
     
15,622
 
Inventories
   
7,131
     
6,795
 
Deferred income taxes
   
5,674
     
3,260
 
Assets held for sale
   
18,479
     
25,395
 
Other current assets
   
5,488
     
3,009
 
Total current assets
   
82,626
     
60,936
 
Net property and equipment
   
406,197
     
432,690
 
Goodwill
   
14,503
     
14,503
 
Other intangible assets, net
   
1,616
     
1,765
 
Other assets
   
8,180
     
10,242
 
Total assets
 
$
513,122
   
$
520,136
 
                 
Liabilities and shareholders' equity:
               
Current liabilities
               
Accounts payable
 
$
25,495
   
$
25,302
 
Accrued expenses
   
32,018
     
31,685
 
Current portion of long-term debt
   
20
     
733
 
Revolving credit
   
13,680
     
14,180
 
Current portion of obligations under leases
   
4,424
     
4,417
 
Total current liabilities
   
75,637
     
76,317
 
Deferred income taxes
   
9,858
     
2,209
 
Other long-term liabilities
   
6,792
     
7,439
 
Obligations under leases
   
132,035
     
134,809
 
Long-term debt
   
53
     
15,783
 
                 
Commitments and contingencies
               
                 
Shareholders' equity:
               
Common stock - $0.50 stated value, 50,000,000 shares authorized - 
   shares issued: 30,332,839
   
15,166
     
15,166
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
129,268
     
128,526
 
Retained earnings
   
164,349
     
161,733
 
Treasury stock - at cost: 1,519,905 shares as of July 1, 2009; 1,760,531
   shares as of September 24, 2008
   
(20,036
)
   
(21,846
)
Total shareholders' equity
   
288,747
     
283,579
 
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
 
$
513,122
   
$
520,136
 
                 
See accompanying notes.
               
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Table of Contents
 
 
The Steak n Shake Company
                       
(Amounts in $000s except share and per share data)
                       
   
Twelve Weeks Ended
   
Forty Weeks Ended
 
   
July 1,
   
July 2,
   
July 1,
   
July 2,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Revenues:
                       
Net sales
 
$
145,648
   
$
143,303
   
$
464,342
   
$
468,071
 
Franchise fees
   
701
     
990
     
2,713
     
3,105
 
Total revenues
   
146,349
     
144,293
     
467,055
     
471,176
 
                                 
Costs and expenses:
                               
Cost of sales
   
34,814
     
35,527
     
112,456
     
115,658
 
Restaurant operating costs
   
76,880
     
79,241
     
253,088
     
259,090
 
General and administrative
   
7,886
     
11,056
     
27,330
     
35,546
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
6,913
     
7,812
     
23,842
     
25,925
 
Marketing
   
8,230
     
6,666
     
25,646
     
23,043
 
Interest
   
3,347
     
3,263
     
10,998
     
10,816
 
Rent
   
3,577
     
3,379
     
11,801
     
11,107
 
Pre-opening costs
   
7
     
112
     
7
     
1,243
 
Asset impairments and provision for restaurant closing
   
63
     
14,089
     
980
     
14,089
 
Gain on disposal of property
   
(85
)    
(385
)    
(97
)
   
(372
)
Other income, net
   
(630
)
   
(288
)
   
(968
)
   
(1,263
)
Total costs and expenses
   
141,002
     
160,472
     
465,083
     
494,882
 
                                 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
   
5,347
     
(16,179
)
   
1,972
 
   
(23,706
)
                                 
Income taxes
   
1,544
     
(6,382
)
   
(644
)
   
(9,912
)
                                 
Net earnings (loss)
 
$
3,803
   
$
(9,797
)
 
$
(2,616
)
 
$
(13,794
)
                                 
                                 
Basic earnings (loss) per common and common
   equivalent share
 
$
0.13
   
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.09
)
 
$
(0.49
)
                                 
Diluted earnings (loss) per common and common
   equivalent share
 
$
0.13
   
$
(0.35
)
 
$
(0.09
)
 
$
(0.49
)
                                 
Weighted average shares and equivalents:
                               
Basic
   
28,551,669
     
28,288,330
     
28,447,380
     
28,274,193
 
Diluted
   
28,663,007
     
28,288,330
     
28,538,960
     
28,274,193
 
                                 
See accompanying notes.
 
 
                               
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Table of Contents
 
 
The Steak n Shake Company
           
(Amounts in $000s)
           
   
Forty Weeks Ended
 
   
July 1,
   
July 2,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Operating activities:
           
Net earnings (loss)
 
$
2,616
 
 
$
(13,794
)
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
   
23,842
     
25,925
 
Provision for deferred income taxes
   
5,235
     
(4,714
)
Asset impairments and provision for restaurant closing
   
980
     
14,089
 
Non-cash expense for stock-based compensation and deferred rent
   
2,422
     
2,676
 
Gain on disposal of property
   
(97
)
   
(372
)
Changes in receivables and inventories
   
7,581
     
1,720
 
Changes in other assets
   
(3,016
)
   
(3,299
)
Changes in accounts payable and accrued expenses
   
1,552
 
   
1,340
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
41,115
     
23,571
 
                 
Investing activities:
               
Additions of property and equipment
   
(3,145
)
   
(28,512
)
Proceeds from property and equipment disposals
   
9,277
     
11,531
 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
   
6,132
     
(16,981
)
                 
Financing activities:
               
Net proceeds from revolving credit facility
   
(500
)    
(18,005
)
Principal payments on long-term debt
   
(16,443
)
   
(1,080
)
Proceeds from equipment and property sale-leasebacks
   
3,597
     
14,817
 
Principal payments on direct financing lease obligations
   
(3,606
)
   
(3,336
)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
   
     
132
 
Excess tax benefits from stock-based awards
   
40
     
10
 
Repurchase of employee shares for tax withholding
   
(202
)
   
(8
)
Proceeds from employee stock purchase plan
   
855
     
1,004
 
Net cash used in financing activities
   
(16,259
)
   
(6,466
)
                 
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
30,988
     
124
 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
6,855
     
1,497
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
37,843
   
$
1,621
 
                 
See accompanying notes.
 
 
               
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Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
The Steak n Shake Company
(Unaudited)
(Amounts in $000s, except share and per share data)
 
 
1.  Basis of Presentation
   
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of The Steak n Shake Company (“we”, “us”, the “Company”, or “Steak n Shake”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America applicable to interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X.  Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements.
 
In our opinion, all adjustments considered necessary to present fairly the condensed consolidated Statement of Financial Position as of July 1, 2009, the condensed consolidated Statements of Operations for the twelve and forty weeks ended July 1, 2009 and July 2, 2008, and the condensed consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009 and July 2, 2008 have been included.
 
The condensed consolidated Statements of Operations for the twelve and forty weeks ended July 1, 2009 and July 2, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the consolidated Statements of Operations for the entire fiscal years.  For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 24, 2008.
 
   Steak n Shake now operates as a holding company with its primary business activities conducted through Steak n Shake Operations, Inc. The Company’s prime objective centers on achieving above-average returns on capital in pursuit of maximizing the eventual net worth of its stockholders. Thus, the Company may pursue investments in the form of acquisitions, joint ventures, and partnerships either related or unrelated to its ongoing business activities. All investment and capital allocation decisions are made by Sardar Biglari, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
 
2.  Seasonal Aspects
 
   We have substantial fixed costs that do not decline in line with decreasing sales.  Our first and second fiscal quarters, which include the winter months, usually reflect lower average weekly unit volumes as compared to the third and fourth fiscal quarters.  Additionally, sales in the first and second fiscal quarters can be adversely affected by severe winter weather.  We may also be negatively affected by adverse weather during the first and fourth fiscal quarters as hurricanes and tropical storms may impact the Southeastern portion of the United States, where we have a significant number of restaurants.

3.  New Accounting Standards
   
    In June 2009, the FASB issued FAS No. 168, "The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles – a replacement of FASB Statement No. 162" (“SFAS 168”). The FASB Accounting Standards Codification, or Codification, will become the source of authoritative U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, recognized by the FASB to be applied by nongovernmental entities. Rules and interpretive releases of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, under authority of federal securities laws are also sources of authoritative GAAP for SEC registrants. On the effective date of this Statement, the Codification will supersede all then-existing non-SEC accounting and reporting standards. All other non-grandfathered non-SEC accounting literature not included in the Codification will become non-authoritative. SFAS 168 is effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. We do not expect the adoption of SFAS 168 to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.
 
 
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   In June 2009, the FASB issued FAS No. 166, "Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets – an amendment of FASB Statement No. 140" (“SFAS 166”). SFAS 166 is intended to improve the relevance, representational faithfulness, and comparability of the information that an entity provides in its financial statements about a transfer of financial assets; the effects of a transfer on its financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; and a transferor’s continuing involvement, if any, in transferred financial assets. SFAS 166 is effective for us at the beginning of fiscal year 2011. We are in the process of determining the effect, if any, that the adoption of SFAS 166 will have on our financial statements.
 
In May 2009, the FASB issued FAS No. 165, "Subsequent Events" (“SFAS 165”), which establishes standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued. Entities are required to disclose the date through which subsequent events have been evaluated and the basis for that date. SFAS 165 is effective on a prospective basis for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009. We adopted SFAS 165 on July 1, 2009. The adoption of SFAS 165 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements and required disclosures.
 
In April 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. 142-3, “Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets” (“FSP 142-3”).  FSP 142-3 amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions that are used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” (“SFAS 142”), and requires enhanced related disclosures.  FSP 142-3 must be applied prospectively to all intangible assets acquired as of and subsequent to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, our fiscal year 2010.  We are in the process of determining the effect, if any, that the adoption of FSP 142-3 will have on our financial statements.
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), “Business Combinations” (“SFAS 141(R)”), which replaces SFAS 141.  SFAS 141(R) requires that the fair value of the purchase price of an acquisition including the issuance of equity securities be determined on the acquisition date; requires that all assets, liabilities, noncontrolling interests, contingent consideration, contingencies, and in-process research and development costs of an acquired business be recorded at fair value at the acquisition date; requires that acquisition costs generally be expensed as incurred; requires that restructuring costs generally be expensed in periods subsequent to the acquisition date; and requires that changes in deferred tax asset valuation allowances and acquired income tax uncertainties after the measurement period impact income tax expense.  SFAS 141(R) also broadens the definition of a business combination and expands disclosures related to business combinations.  SFAS 141(R) applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008, our fiscal year 2010, except that business combinations consummated prior to the effective date must apply SFAS 141(R) income tax requirements immediately upon adoption.  We are in the process of determining the effect, if any, that the adoption of SFAS 141(R) will have on our financial statements.
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51” (“SFAS 160”).  SFAS 160 clarifies the accounting for noncontrolling interests and establishes accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary, including classification as a component of equity.  SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, our fiscal year 2010.  We are in the process of determining the effect, if any, that the adoption of SFAS 160 will have on our financial statements.
 
    In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (“SFAS 159”).  SFAS 159 provides companies with an option to report selected financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value.  Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are reported in earnings at each subsequent reporting date.  SFAS 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, our fiscal year 2009.  We have determined not to elect the fair value measurement option under SFAS 159.
 
 
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   In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”), which defines fair value, establishes a formal framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  SFAS 157 is only applicable to existing accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements and does not require any new fair value measurements.  As originally issued, SFAS 157 was to be effective as of the beginning of our fiscal year 2009.  With the issuance in February 2008 of FSP 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157,” the FASB approved a one-year deferral to the beginning of our fiscal year 2010 for the implementation of SFAS 157 with regard to non-financial assets and liabilities that are not recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually).  The FASB has also excluded leases from the scope of SFAS 157 with the issuance of FSP 157-1, “Application of FASB Statement No. 157 to FASB Statement No. 13 and Other Accounting Pronouncements that Address Fair Value Measurements for Purposes of Lease Classification or Measurement under Statement 13.”  The adoption of SFAS 157 with regard to financial assets and liabilities as of September 25, 2008 did not materially impact our financial statements.  See Note 13 for information regarding the implementation of SFAS 157.  We are in the process of determining the effect, if any, that the adoption of SFAS 157 with regard to non-financial assets and liabilities will have on our financial statements in fiscal year 2010.
 
4.  Earnings (Loss) Per Share
 
Earnings (loss) per share of common stock is based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period.  The following table presents a reconciliation of the basic and diluted weighted average common shares as required by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, “Earnings Per Share.”
 
 
Twelve Weeks Ended
 
Forty Weeks Ended
 
July 1,
 
July 2,
 
July 1,
 
July 2,
 
2009
 
2008
 
2009
 
2008
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
             
Weighted average common shares
28,551,669
 
28,288,330
 
28,447,380
 
28,274,193
               
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
             
Weighted average common shares
28,551,669
 
28,288,330
 
28,447,380
 
28,274,193
Dilutive effect of stock awards
         111,338
 
                 —
 
                  91,580
 
                  —
Weighted average common and incremental shares
28,663,007
 
28,288,330
 
28,538,960
 
28,274,193
               
Number of share-based awards excluded from the calculation of
   diluted earnings (loss) per share because the awards' exercise
   prices were greater than the average market price of the
   Company's common stock, or because they were antidilutive
   due to the Company's net losses for the twelve and forty
   weeks ended July 2, 2008.
577,537
 
1,947,310
 
830,307
 
1,576,327
 
5.  Restaurant Closings
 
   We permanently closed one Company-owned restaurant during the first quarter of fiscal year 2009 and thirteen Company-owned restaurants in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008.  The restaurant closed in the first quarter of fiscal year 2009 and ten of the restaurants closed in fiscal year 2008 were located near other Company-owned stores that continue to operate.  Therefore, the results of operations of these restaurants are not presented as discontinued operations and continue to be included in continuing operations in the condensed consolidated Statements of Operations.
 
 
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   The assets of three restaurants closed in fiscal year 2008 were not located near other Company-owned stores, and we do not expect to have significant continuing involvement in the operations after disposal.  Although these restaurants meet the definition of “discontinued operations,” as defined in SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets” (“SFAS 144”), we have not segregated the results of operations as the amounts are immaterial.  Net loss after tax related to the three restaurants was $55 and $200 for the twelve and forty weeks ended July 2, 2008, respectively.
 
6.  Net Property and Equipment
 
    Net property and equipment consists of the following:
   
July 1,
   
September 24,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Land
 
$
151,677
   
$
151,006
 
Buildings
   
149,823
     
156,695
 
Land and leasehold improvements
   
154,859
     
157,738
 
Equipment
   
200,384
     
204,116
 
Construction in progress
   
1,428
     
2,423
 
     
658,171
     
671,978
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
   
(251,974
)
   
(239,288
)
Net property and equipment
 
$
406,197
   
$
432,690
 
 
7.  Assets Held for Sale
 
   Assets held for sale is comprised of the following:
   
July 1,
   
September 24,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Land and buildings
 
$
15,819
   
$
21,726
 
Land and leasehold improvements
   
2,652
     
3,388
 
Equipment
   
8
     
281
 
Total assets held for sale
 
$
18,479
   
$
25,395
 
 
Assets held for sale consists of property and equipment related to closed restaurants and parcels of land that are currently being marketed for disposal.  The July 1, 2009 balances include assets related to 12 restaurants closed during prior years and 16 parcels of land.  During the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009, we sold two restaurant and five parcels of land that were held for sale as of September 24, 2008, and we classified one additional parcel of land as held for sale.  The current year-to-date pre-tax loss on the sale of these properties was $116.
 
The September 24, 2008 balances include assets related to seven restaurants closed during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008, seven restaurants closed during prior years, and 20 parcels of land.
 
For assets to be classified as held for sale, SFAS 144 requires, among other things, that the sale of the assets must be probable to occur within one year.  This limitation is subject to certain exceptions, including consideration of circumstances that were previously considered unlikely.  Continued classification as held for sale can be appropriate if an entity initiates actions necessary to respond to the change in circumstances, continues to actively market the asset at a price that is reasonable given the change in circumstances, and continues to meet all other criteria required for classification as held for sale in accordance with SFAS 144.  If at any time the criteria are no longer met, a long-lived asset classified as held for sale must be reclassified as held and used, subject to certain adjustments to the carrying value.     
 
 
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We continue to actively market properties held for sale and routinely evaluate the reasonableness of the estimated selling price in response to current market conditions.  As a result of this analysis, during the quarter and year-to-date periods ended July 1, 2009, we recorded $63 and $875, respectively, relating to the loss on disposal of held for sale assets and adjustments to the carrying value of held for sale properties we continue to own.  The charges have been recorded as asset impairment charges in the condensed consolidated Statement of Operations. 
 
8.  Goodwill and Other Intangibles
 
Goodwill
   Our condensed consolidated Statements of Financial Position as of July 1, 2009 and September 24, 2008 include goodwill of acquired businesses of $14,503. Goodwill consists of the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired in connection with the acquisitions of Creative Restaurants, Inc. (“CRI”) and Kelley Restaurants, Inc. (“KRI”) on July 6, 2006 and December 29, 2004, respectively.  The related goodwill is allocated to reporting units that benefited from the acquisition using a relative fair value methodology.
 
   Under SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” (“SFAS 142”) we are required to assess goodwill and any indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred.  We perform our annual assessment of the recoverability of our goodwill in accordance with SFAS 142 during the fourth quarter of each fiscal year.  A significant amount of judgment is required in performing goodwill impairment tests. Such tests include periodically determining or reviewing the estimated fair value of our reporting units.  There are several methods of estimating a reporting unit’s fair value, including market quotations, asset and liability fair values and other valuation techniques, such as discounted projected future cash flow and multiples of earnings.  If the carrying amount of a reporting unit, including goodwill, exceeds the estimated fair value, then individual assets, including identifiable intangible assets, and liabilities of the reporting unit are estimated at fair value.  The excess of the estimated fair value of the reporting unit over the estimated fair value of net assets would establish the implied value of goodwill.  The excess of the recorded amount of goodwill over the implied value is then charged to earnings as an impairment loss.
 
In conjunction with our annual goodwill analysis for fiscal 2008, our step one results indicated that impairment potentially existed for one reporting unit, and we began the second step of the analysis for this reporting unit.  During the first quarter of fiscal year 2009, we completed our analysis and determined that we did not have an impairment as of the annual assessment date.
 
Our calculation of the fair value of the reporting units considers current market conditions existing at the assessment date.  The length and depth of the ongoing economic recession could adversely impact values of our reporting unit and result in impairment charges in future periods.  Consequently, it is possible that we will need to update our impairment analysis during future quarters.  We can provide no assurance that a material impairment charge will not occur in future periods as a result of these analyses.

Other Intangibles
Other intangibles are comprised of the following:
 
   
July 1,
   
September 24,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Gross value of intangible assets subject to amortization
 
$
2,291
   
$
2,291
 
Accumulated amortization
   
(1,175
)
   
(1,026
)
Intangible assets subject to amortization, net
   
1,116
     
1,265
 
Intangible assets with indefinite lives
   
500
     
500
 
Total intangible assets
 
$
1,616
   
$
1,765
 
 
 
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   Intangible assets subject to amortization consist of a right to operate and favorable leases acquired in connection with prior acquisitions, and are being amortized over their estimated weighted average useful lives of 12 years and 8 years, respectively.  Amortization expense for the twelve weeks ended July 1, 2009 and July 2, 2008 was $44 and $45, respectively.  Amortization expense for the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009 and July 2, 2008 was $149 and $105, respectively.  Total annual amortization for each of the next five years is approximately $190.
 
   Intangible assets with indefinite lives consist of reacquired franchise rights assumed in connection with the acquisitions of CRI and KRI and were recorded in accordance with the provisions of Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 04-1, “Accounting for Pre-existing Relationships between the Parties to a Business Combination.”
 
9.  Borrowings
 
Senior Note Agreement
As of September 24, 2008, we had outstanding borrowings under the Senior Note Agreement and Private Shelf Facility (the “Senior Note Agreement”) totaling $16,429.
 
   During the first quarter of fiscal year 2009, we made a principal prepayment of $4,471 on the Senior Note Agreement.  As a result of this prepayment, we incurred a $506 prepayment penalty which is included in interest expense in the condensed consolidated Statement of Operations.
 
During the third quarter of fiscal year 2009, we made a principal prepayment of $11,958 on the Senior Note Agreement.  As a result of this prepayment, we incurred a $536 prepayment penalty which is included in interest expense in the condensed consolidated Statement of Operations.  As of July 1, 2009, we have satisfied in full all outstanding borrowings under the Senior Note Agreement.
 
Revolving Credit Facility
Effective June 19, 2009, the capacity to borrow under our Revolving Credit Facility (“Facility”) was adjusted from $25,000 to $20,000.  In accordance with the November 21, 2008 amendment, our capacity to borrow under the Facility would be reduced by a like amount of any principal prepayment under the Senior Note Agreement, but not to be reduced below $20,000.  Interest is based on the One Month LIBOR plus 350 basis points and the Facility expires January 30, 2010.  We intend to either renew the Facility or negotiate a new facility prior to its maturity.  At July 1, 2009, outstanding borrowings under the Facility were $13,680 at an interest rate of 3.8%.
 
Our Facility contains restrictions and covenants which, among other things, requires us to maintain certain financial ratios.  The amendments executed on November 21, 2008 include revised financial covenants.  We were in compliance with all covenants under the amended agreement as of July 1, 2009.
 
The Facility is secured with the deposit accounts, accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, general intangibles, fixtures, and all other personal property.  
 
We also have one note in the amount of $73 outstanding as of July 1, 2009.
 
10.  Income Taxes
 
Our effective income tax rate for the current year-to-date period is (32.7%).  The effective income tax rate for the same year-to-date period in the prior year was 41.8%.  The negative effective income tax rate for the current year-to-date period is primarily due to our total income tax credits exceeding the amount of total income tax expense calculated before considering these income tax credits.  This results in recording a current year-to-date income tax benefit which, when divided by pre-tax income, results in a negative effective income tax rate percentage.  The amount of our income tax credits remains relatively constant regardless of the amount of pre-tax income or loss.  Our two most significant income tax credits are the Work Opportunity Tax Credit and the Employer’s FICA Tip Credit.
 
We adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” at the beginning of our fiscal year 2008.
 
As of July 1, 2009, we had approximately $1,009 of unrecognized tax benefits, including approximately $245 of interest and penalties, which are included in other long-term liabilities in the condensed consolidated Statement of Financial Position.  During the twelve and forty weeks ended July 1, 2009, we recognized $22 and $67, respectively in potential interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions.  Our continuing practice is to recognize interest expense and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.  Of the $1,009 of unrecognized tax benefits, $873 would impact the effective income tax rate if recognized.
 
   We file income tax returns which are periodically audited by various federal, state, and local jurisdictions.  With few exceptions, we are no longer subject to federal, state, and local tax examinations for fiscal years prior to 2005.  We believe we have certain income tax exposures related to fiscal years 2004 through 2006.  Due to the expiration of the various statutes of limitations for these fiscal years, it is possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will decrease by approximately $247 within 12 months.
 
Included in receivables at September 24, 2008 was $11,351 of net income taxes receivable.  This amount primarily represented expected federal and state income tax refunds which were received in cash during the first quarter of fiscal year 2009.  The refunds received were the result of net operating loss carryback claims.  We carried back the fiscal year 2008 taxable loss to fiscal year 2006 which resulted in cash refunds from income taxes previously paid.
 
11.  Common Stock Plans
 
Employee Stock Options - During the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009, we granted 110,000 options to employees under plans approved by our shareholders.  Employees and non-employee directors forfeited 363,594 options during the year-to-date period.  Pre-tax stock-based compensation expense recorded during the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009 for the stock option plans totaled $620.
 
Restricted Shares - During the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009, we granted 119,116 non-vested restricted shares to employees and non-employee directors under plans approved by our shareholders at a weighted average grant date fair value per share of $6.21.  During the same period, 55,800 restricted shares were forfeited and 120,220 restricted shares vested.  Pre-tax stock-based compensation expense recorded during the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009 for the plan totaled $973.
 
Employee Stock Purchase Plan - During the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009, we issued 150,790 shares to employees under our Employee Stock Purchase Plan.  Pre-tax stock-based compensation expense recorded during the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009 for the Employee Stock Purchase Plan totaled $153.
 
During the second quarter of fiscal year 2009, the compensation philosophy was revised to match the Company’s objective of maximizing intrinsic business value on a per-share basis.  As a consequence, we no longer routinely issue stock grants and stock options.

12.  Restructuring
 
   During fiscal years 2007 and 2008, same-store sales declined while certain restaurant operating costs, such as food costs and labor rates, increased.  As a result, a number of cost reduction initiatives were undertaken to reduce the cost structure.  The majority of planned cost reductions were achieved through headcount reductions in the field and at the corporate offices.  In order to execute the plan, we incurred restructuring expenses related to the headcount reductions, which were recorded in general and administrative expense in the condensed consolidated Statement of Operations.

 
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   The table below summarizes all restructuring-related severance accruals and payments during fiscal year 2009:  
 
September 24, 2008 accrual balance
 
$
372
 
Year-to-date fiscal year 2009 accruals
   
121
 
Year-to-date fiscal year 2009 payments
   
(479
)
July 1, 2009 accrual balance
 
$
14
 
 
   The remaining restructuring accrual will be paid prior to the end of fiscal year 2009.
 
   In addition to severance related to restructuring, during fiscal years 2008 and 2009 we also incurred severance expense related to the departure of former executives.  The severance is being paid out according to the terms of the executives’ agreements.  During 2009, we paid all of the September 24, 2008 executive severance accrual balance of $474.  We accrued an additional $223 of executive severance during the second quarter of fiscal year 2009, $71 of which was paid as of July 1, 2009.  The remaining $152 will be paid during the rest of fiscal year 2009 and during the first and second quarters of fiscal year 2010.

13.  Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities
 
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 157, which defines fair value, establishes a formal framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  The provisions of SFAS 157 were effective for the Company on September 25, 2008; however, the FASB deferred the effective date of SFAS 157 until the beginning of our fiscal year 2010 as it relates to fair value measurement requirements for non-financial assets and liabilities that are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis.  Accordingly, we adopted SFAS 157 for financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 25, 2008, which did not materially impact our financial statements.
 
The fair value framework as established in SFAS 157 requires the categorization of assets and liabilities into three levels based upon the assumptions (inputs) used to price the assets or liabilities.  Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair values, whereas Level 3 generally requires significant management judgment.  The three levels are defined as follows:
 
·  
Level 1:  Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities.
·  
Level 2:  Observable inputs other than those included in Level 1.  For example, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in inactive markets.
·  
Level 3:  Unobservable inputs reflecting management’s own assumptions about the inputs used in pricing the asset or liability.
 
      As of July 1, 2009, the fair values of financial assets were as follows:
 
 
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Cash equivalents
 
$
   
$
33,457
   
$
   
$
33,457
 
Non-qualified deferred compensation plan investments
   
335
     
     
     
335
 
Total assets at fair value
 
$
335
   
$
33,457
   
$
   
$
33,792
 

   There were no financial liabilities measured at fair value as of July 1, 2009.  There were no changes in our valuation techniques used to measure fair values on a recurring basis as a result of adopting SFAS 157.
 
 
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14.  Supplemental Cash Flow Information
 
   During the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009, we issued a total of 169,393 shares with a market value of $1,005, which were primarily restricted shares and were predominantly issued to employees and non-employee directors; we recorded notes receivable of $100 as a result of refranchising seven restaurants to a franchisee; and we had $360 of capital expenditures in accounts payable as of July 1, 2009.  During the forty weeks ended July 2, 2008, we issued 238,500 restricted shares with a market value of $1,785, and we had $385 of capital expenditures in accounts payable as of July 2, 2008.
 
 
15.  Commitments and Contingencies
 
   We are engaged in various legal proceedings in the ordinary course of our business and have certain unresolved claims pending.   The ultimate liability, if any, for the aggregate amounts claimed cannot be determined at this time.  However, management believes, based on examination of these matters and experiences to date, that the ultimate liability, if any, in excess of amounts already provided for in the condensed consolidated financial statements is not likely to have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 
16.  Subsequent Events
 
   In May 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 165, "Subsequent Events", which establishes general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued. We have evaluated subsequent events for recognition or disclosure through the time of filing these consolidated financial statements on Form 10-Q with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on August 10, 2009.
 
 
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ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
(Amounts in $000s, except share and per share data)
 
Overview
 
   In the following discussion, the term “same-store sales” refers to the sales of only those Company-owned units open 18 months as of the beginning of the current fiscal quarter and which remained open through the end of the fiscal quarter.
 
Fiscal Third Quarter 2009 Results
 
   Net earnings for the third quarter of fiscal year 2009 were $3,803, or $0.13 per diluted share, contrasted to a net loss of ($9,797), or ($0.35) per diluted share in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008.  Last year's third quarter loss included $8,735, or $0.31 per diluted share, net of tax impairment charges related to underperforming restaurants.  Quarterly same-store sales increased 5.0% due to an increase in guest traffic of 13.4%, offset by an 8.4% contraction in the average guest check.  Net sales increased 1.6% from $143,303 to $145,648 in the current quarter.
 
Fiscal Year 2009 Results (Year-to-date)
 
   Year-to-date net earnings through the third quarter of fiscal year 2009 were $2,616, or $0.09 per diluted share, contrasted to a net loss of ($13,794), or ($0.49) per diluted share for the same period a year ago.  Last year's third quarter loss included $8,735, or $0.31 per diluted share, net of tax impairment charges related to underperforming restaurants.  Year-to-date same-store sales increased 2.2%.  Net sales decreased 0.8% from $468,071 to $464,342 in the current year because we operated 21 fewer Company-owned restaurants following the closure and refranchising of certain units during the second quarter of the previous year.
 
During the first three quarters of fiscal year 2009, we closed one Company-owned restaurant and refranchised seven Company-owned restaurants to franchisees, bringing the total number of Company-owned restaurants to 415.  Franchisees also closed two restaurants, bringing the total number of franchised units to 73.
   
Management Direction
 
   New management, during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008, enacted a change in strategic direction under which we began to operate in a manner designed to generate cash.  Our long-term objective is to maximize intrinsic business value per share of the Company.  (Intrinsic value is computed by taking all future cash flows into and out of the business and then discounting the resultant number at an appropriate interest rate.)  Thus, our financial goal is to maximize free cash flow and return on invested capital.  We regard capital allocation as immensely important to creating shareholder value.  Steak n Shake is transforming into a holding company.  Its basic premise is to reinvest cash generated from its operating subsidiaries into any investments with the objective of achieving high risk-adjusted returns.  Pursuant to a resolution of the Company’s Board of Directors on June 17, 2009, all investment and other capital allocation decisions are made for the Company by Sardar Biglari, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
 
Critical Accounting Estimates
 
      Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based upon our condensed consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  The preparation of our financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.  Critical accounting policies are those we believe are most important to portraying our financial condition and results of operations and also require the most subjective or complex judgments by management. Judgments and uncertainties regarding the application of these policies may result in materially different amounts being reported under various conditions or using different assumptions.  On an ongoing
 
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basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions based on historical experience and other factors that are believed to be relevant under the circumstances.  There have been no material changes to the critical accounting policies previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 24, 2008.
 
Results of Operations
 
    The following table sets forth the percentage relationship to total revenues, unless otherwise indicated, of items included in our condensed consolidated Statements of Operations for the periods indicated:
 
   
Twelve Weeks Ended
   
Forty Weeks Ended
 
   
July 1,
   
July 2,
   
July 1,
   
July 2,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Revenues:
                       
Net sales
   
99.5
%
   
99.3
%
   
99.4
%
   
99.3
%
Franchise fees
   
0.5
%
   
0.7
%
   
0.6
%
   
0.7
%
Total revenues
   
100.0
%
   
100.0
%
   
100.0
%
   
100.0
%
                                 
Costs and expenses:
                               
Cost of sales (1)
   
23.9
%
   
24.8
%
   
24.2
%
   
24.7
%
Restaurant operating costs (1)
   
52.8
%
   
55.3
%
   
54.5
%
   
55.4
%
General and administrative
   
5.4
%
   
7.7
%
   
5.9
%
   
7.5
%
Depreciation and amortization
   
4.7
%
   
5.4
%
   
5.1
%
   
5.5
%
Marketing
   
5.6
%
   
4.6
%
   
5.5
%
   
4.9
%
Interest
   
2.3
%
   
2.3
%
   
2.4
%
   
2.3
%
Rent
   
2.4
%
   
2.3
%
   
2.5
%
   
2.4
%
Pre-opening costs
   
0.0
%
   
0.1
%
   
0.0
%
   
0.3
%
Asset impairments and provision for restaurant closing
   
0.0
%
   
9.8
%
   
0.2
%
   
3.0
%
Gain on disposal of property
   
(0.1
)%
   
(0.3
)%
   
(0.0
)%
   
(0.1
)%
Other income, net
   
(0.4
)%
   
(0.2
)%
   
(0.2
)%
   
(0.3
)%
                                 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
   
3.7
%
   
(11.2
)%
   
0.4
%
   
(5.0
)%
                                 
Income taxes
   
1.1
%
   
(4.4
)%
   
(0.1
)%
   
(2.1
)%
                                 
Net earnings (loss)
   
2.6
%
   
(6.8
)%
   
0.6
%
   
(2.9
)%
                                 
(1) Cost of sales and restaurant operating costs are expressed as a percentage of net sales.
 
 
Comparison of Twelve Weeks Ended July 1, 2009 to Twelve Weeks Ended July 2, 2008
 
Net earnings (loss)
We recorded net earnings of $3,803, or $0.13 per diluted share, for the current quarter as compared with a net loss of ($9,797) or ($0.35) per diluted share for the third quarter of fiscal year 2008.  Last year's third quarter loss included $8,735, or $0.31 per diluted share, net of tax impairment charges related to underperforming restaurants.   
 
Revenues
Net sales increased 1.6% from $143,303 to $145,648 in the current quarter compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2008.  We operated 21 fewer Company-owned restaurants in the current quarter following the closure and refranchising of
 
 
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certain units since the same period of the prior year.  However, third quarter same-store sales increased 5.0% compared with the same quarter in the prior year, which more than offset the decrease in sales resulting from the closure and refranchising of units.  The increase in same-store sales was driven by an increase in guest traffic of 13.4%, partially offset by an 8.4% contraction in average guest check.
 
   Franchise fees decreased slightly in the current fiscal quarter due to a decrease in franchisee same store-sales of 2.1%, resulting in lower royalty fees accrued.  The decrease in franchise fees was partially offset by the growth in the number of franchised units from 69 at the end of the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 to 73 at the end of the current quarter. 
 
Costs and expenses
Cost of sales was $34,814 or 23.9% of net sales, compared with $35,527 or 24.8% of net sales in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 primarily due to favorable shifts in the sales mix.
 
Restaurant operating costs were $76,880 or 52.8% of net sales, compared with $79,241 or 55.3% of net sales in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008.  Labor and benefit costs declined by $1,760 due primarily to improvements in productivity and wage and benefit management.
 
As part of our focus to reduce our cost structure, general and administrative expenses decreased $3,170 (28.7%) to $7,886 and decreased as a percentage of total revenues from 7.7% to 5.4%.  Wages, payroll taxes, and related benefits declined by approximately $920 due to reductions in staffing that occurred during the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2008.  Legal and professional fees, travel, and outside services declined $700.
 
Marketing expense increased $1,564 (23.5%) to $8,230 and increased as a percentage of total revenues from 4.6% to 5.6%. 
 
Interest expense in the third quarter of fiscal year 2009 included a $536 prepayment penalty paid to The Prudential Insurance Company of America as a part of the repayment and termination of the Company’s Senior Note Agreement and Private Shelf Facility.  Interest expense related to obligations under leases decreased $189.
 
Rent expense increased $198 primarily due to sale-leaseback transactions entered into during the second half of fiscal year 2008.
 
   Asset impairments and provision for restaurant closing decreased to $63 in the current quarter compared to $14,089, or 9.8% of total revenue in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008.  The decrease was due to prior year impairment charges including $8,794 related to 18 restaurants with low operating performances, $4,818 related to 12 stores that were planned to and did close in fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008, and $477 related to three stores involved in sale-leaseback transactions.
 
Income taxes
Our effective income tax rate decreased from 39.4% to 28.9% for the same period in the prior year primarily due to the change from a pre-tax loss to pre-tax earnings.  Federal income tax credits will decrease the effective income tax rate in conjunction with pre-tax earnings while increasing the effective income tax rate in conjunction with a pre-tax loss.
 
Comparison of Forty Weeks Ended July 1, 2009 to Forty Weeks Ended July 2, 2008
 
Net earnings (loss)
We recorded net earnings of $2,616, or $0.09 per diluted share, for the current year-to-date period as compared with a net loss of ($13,794) or ($0.49) per diluted share for the same period of fiscal year 2008.  Last year's third quarter loss included $8,735, or $0.31 per diluted share, net of tax impairment charges related to underperforming restaurants. 
 
 
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Revenues
Net sales decreased 0.8% from $468,071 to $464,342 in the current year-to-date period because we operated 21 fewer Company-owned restaurants following the closure and refranchising of certain units during the second quarter of the previous year.  This decrease was offset by year-to-date same-store sales increase of 2.2% compared with the same period of fiscal year 2008.  The increase in same-store sales was driven by an increase in guest traffic of 7.1%, partially offset by a 4.9% contraction in average guest check.
 
Franchise fees decreased $392 (12.6%) to $2,713 in the current year-to-date period.  This is due to a decrease in franchisee same store sales of 1.5%, which resulted in lower royalty fees accrued.  The decrease in franchise fees was partially offset by the growth in the number of franchised units from 69 at the end of the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 to 73 at the end of the current quarter. 
 
Costs and expenses
Year-to-date cost of sales was $112,456 or 24.2% of net sales, compared with $115,658 or 24.7% of net sales in the same period of fiscal year 2008 primarily due to favorable shifts in the sales mix.
 
Year-to-date restaurant operating costs were $253,088 or 54.5% of net sales, compared with $259,090 or 55.4% of net sales in the same period of fiscal year 2008.  Labor and benefit costs declined by $4,740 due primarily to improvements in productivity and wage and benefit management.
 
As part of our plan to reduce our cost structure, general and administrative expenses decreased $8,216 (23.1%) to $27,330 and decreased as a percentage of total revenues from 7.5% to 5.9%.  Wages, payroll taxes, and related benefits declined by approximately $3,880 due to reductions in staffing that occurred during the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2008.  Legal and professional fees, travel, and outside services declined $2,300.
 
Marketing expense increased $2,603 (11.3%) to $25,646 and increased as a percentage of total revenues from 4.9% to 5.5%. 
 
Year-to-date interest expense included a $536 prepayment penalty paid to The Prudential Insurance Company of America as a part of the repayment and termination of the Company’s Senior Note Agreement and Private Shelf Facility during the third quarter of fiscal year 2009.  A prepayment penalty of $506 was also paid during the first quarter of fiscal year 2009.   Interest expense related to obligations under leases decreased $469.   
 
Rent expense increased slightly as a percentage of total revenues primarily due to sale-leaseback transactions entered into during the second half of fiscal year 2008.
 
Year-to-date pre-opening costs recorded during fiscal year 2008 reflect the opening of nine new units.  We did not open any new units in the current year-to-date period. 
 
Asset impairments and provision for restaurant closing was $980, or 0.2% of total revenues in the current year-to-date period, which related primarily to the loss on disposal of held for sale assets and adjustments to the carrying value of held for sale properties we continue to own.  For the third quarter of fiscal year 2008, we incurred asset impairment charges of $14,089, or 3.0% of total revenues.  The decrease period over period was due to prior year impairment charges including $8,794 related to 18 restaurants with low operating performances, $4,818 related to 12 stores that were planned to and did close in fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008, and $477 related to three stores involved in sale-leaseback transactions.
 
Income taxes
Our effective income tax rate for the current year-to-date period is (32.7%).  The effective income tax rate for the same year-to-date period in the prior year was 41.8%.  The negative effective income tax rate for the current year-to-date period is primarily due to our total income tax credits exceeding the amount of total income tax expense calculated before considering these
 
 
18

 
 
income tax credits.  This results in recording a current year-to-date income tax benefit which, when divided by pre-tax income, results in a negative effective income tax rate percentage.  The amount of our income tax credits remains relatively constant regardless of the amount of pre-tax income or loss.  Our two most significant income tax credits are the Work Opportunity Tax Credit and the Employer’s FICA Tip Credit.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
   We generated $41,115 in cash flows from operations during the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009 as compared to $23,571 during the forty weeks ended July 2, 2008.  The increase resulted primarily from $13,157 related to income tax refunds, net of the year-to-date tax provision.
 
Net cash provided by investing activities of $6,132 during the forty weeks ended July 1, 2009 resulted primarily from proceeds of $9,277 related to the sale of five parcels of land, two restaurant properties, and the transfer of two Company-owned buildings to a franchisee.  We closed one Company-owned restaurant and refranchised seven Company-owned restaurants to a franchisee during the current year-to-date period.
 
Net cash used in investing activities of $16,981 during the forty weeks ended July 2, 2008 resulted primarily from capital expenditures of $28,512.  During that year-to-date period, we opened nine new Company-owned restaurants and refranchised eight Company-owned restaurants to franchisees.  We received proceeds of $11,531 from the sale of eight parcels of land and from the transfer of three Company-owned buildings and various equipment to franchisees during the same period of fiscal year 2008.
 
   Capital expenditures for the remainder of fiscal year 2009 will be limited principally to maintenance capital expenditures.   We intend to meet our working capital needs and fund capital expenditures by using existing cash, anticipated cash flows from operations, net operating loss carryback tax refunds, existing credit facilities, and the sale of excess properties.  We continually review available financing alternatives.  In addition, we may consider, on an opportunistic basis, strategic decisions to create value and improve operating performance. 
 
Senior Note Agreement
As of September 24, 2008 we had outstanding borrowings under the Senior Note Agreement and Private Shelf Facility (the “Senior Note Agreement”) totaling $16,429.
 
During the first quarter of fiscal year 2009, we made a principal prepayment of $4,471 on the Senior Note Agreement.  As a result of this prepayment, we incurred a $506 prepayment penalty which is included in interest expense in the condensed consolidated Statement of Operations.
 
During the third quarter of fiscal year 2009, we made a principal prepayment of $11,958 on the Senior Note Agreement.  As a result of this prepayment, we incurred a $536 prepayment penalty which is included in interest expense in the condensed consolidated Statement of Operations.  As of July 1, 2009 we have satisfied in full all outstanding borrowings under the Senior Note Agreement.
 
Revolving Credit Facility
Effective June 19, 2009, the capacity to borrow under our Revolving Credit Facility (“Facility”) was adjusted from $25,000 to $20,000.  In accordance with the November 21, 2008 amendment, our capacity to borrow under the Facility would be reduced by a like amount of any principal prepayment under the Senior Note Agreement, but not to be reduced below $20,000.  Interest is based on the One Month LIBOR plus 350 basis points and the Facility expires January 30, 2010.  We intend to either renew the Facility or negotiate a new facility prior to its maturity.  At July 1, 2009, outstanding borrowings under the Facility were $13,680 at an interest rate of 3.8%.
 
 
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   Our Facility contains restrictions and covenants customary for credit agreements of this type which, among other things, require us to maintain certain financial ratios.  The amendments executed on November 21, 2008 include revised financial covenants.  These covenants include, among others, requirements to limit the ratio of total liabilities to tangible net worth (as defined in the amendments) to a maximum of 1.10 and to maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio (as defined in the amendments) of 1.20.  On July 1, 2009, our ratio of total liabilities to tangible net worth was 0.82 and our fixed charge coverage ratio was 2.23.  We were in compliance with all covenants under the amended agreement as of July 1, 2009.
 
The Facility is secured with the deposit accounts, accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, general intangibles, fixtures, and all other personal property.   
 
   We also have one note in the amount of $73 outstanding as of July 1, 2009.
 
New Accounting Standards
 
   See Note 3 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) on page 6 of this report.
 
Effects of Governmental Regulations and Inflation
 
   Most of our employees are paid hourly rates related to federal and state minimum wage laws.  Any increase in the legal minimum wage would directly increase our operating costs, and the federal minimum wage increased on July 24, 2009.  We are also subject to various federal, state and local laws related to zoning, land use, safety standards, working conditions, and accessibility standards.  Any changes in these laws that require improvements to our restaurants would increase operating costs.  In addition, we are subject to franchise registration requirements and certain related federal and state laws regarding franchise operations.  Any changes in these laws could affect our ability to attract and retain franchisees. 
 
Inflation in food, labor, fringe benefits, energy costs, transportation costs, and other operating costs directly affects our operations.
 
 
 
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Risks Associated with Forward-Looking Statements
 
    Certain statements contained in this report represent forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  In general, forward-looking statements include estimates of future revenues, cash flows, capital expenditures or other financial items, as well as assumptions underlying any of the foregoing.  Forward-looking statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and use words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “may” and other similar terminology.  A forward-looking statement is neither a prediction nor a guarantee of future events or circumstances, and those future events or circumstances may not occur.  Investors should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this report.  These forward-looking statements are based on currently available operating, financial and competitive information and are subject to various risks and uncertainties.  Our actual future results and trends may differ materially depending on a variety of factors, many beyond our control, including, but not limited to:
 
·  
the success of our plan to increase store traffic on a profitable basis;
·  
competition in the restaurant industry for guests, staff, locations, and new products;
·  
disruptions in the overall economy and the financial markets;
·  
our ability to comply with the restrictions and covenants to our debt agreements;
·  
declines in the market price of our common stock;
·  
the potential to recognize additional impairment charges on our long-lived assets;
·  
fluctuations in food commodity and energy prices and the availability of food commodities;
·  
the ability of our franchisees to operate profitable restaurants;
·  
the poor performance or closing of even a small number of restaurants;
·  
changes in guest preferences, tastes, and dietary habits;
·  
changes in minimum wage rates and the availability and cost of qualified personnel;
·  
harsh weather conditions or losses due to casualties;
·  
unfavorable publicity relating to food safety or food-borne illness;
·  
exposure to liabilities related to the ownership and leasing of significant amounts of real estate;
·  
our ability to comply with existing and future governmental regulations;
·  
our ability to adequately protect our trademarks, service marks, and other components of our brand; and
·  
other risks identified in the periodic reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
    Refer to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 24, 2008 for a detailed discussion of each of the risks identified above.  In addition, refer to Part II, Item 1A, "Risk Factors" on page 23 of this report.
 
Accordingly, such forward-looking statements do not purport to be predictions of future events or circumstances and may not be realized.  Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that are currently deemed immaterial may also become important factors that may harm our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.  We assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required in our periodic reports.
 
 
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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
   Our primary market risk exposure with regard to financial instruments is to changes in interest rates.  Historically, we have invested excess cash primarily in cash equivalents due to their relatively low credit risk, and our excess cash was primarily invested in cash equivalents as of July 1, 2009.  Interest rates on these securities are based upon market rates at the time of purchase and remain fixed until maturity.  On June 17, 2009, our Board of Directors approved resolutions granting our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Sardar Biglari, full power and authority to make all investment and capital allocation decisions on behalf of the Company, which could affect the investment of excess cash going forward.  Further, effective July 8, 2009, we amended the Revolving Credit Facility to permit us to use up to $10,000 of surplus cash to make investments of any lawful nature, so long as no event of default exists under the Revolving Credit Facility.
 
The Revolving Credit Facility bears interest at a rate based upon the One Month LIBOR plus 350 basis points.  Historically we have not used derivative financial instruments to manage exposure to interest rate changes.  At July 1, 2009, a hypothetical 100 basis point increase in short-term interest rates would have an impact of ($21) and ($85) on our quarterly and year-to-date net earnings, respectively.
 
We purchase certain food products which are affected by volatility in commodity prices due to weather conditions, supply levels, and other market conditions.  

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Based on an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(c)), our Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of July 1, 2009.

On June 17, 2009, our Board of Directors approved resolutions granting our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Sardar Biglari, full power and authority to make all investment and capital allocation decisions on behalf of the Company.  As a result, our internal controls have been updated as necessary to accommodate the modifications to our business processes and accounting procedures.  There have been no other changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the current quarter ended July 1, 2009 that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

  
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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
   See Note 15 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) on page 14 of this report.
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
 
We are dependent on key personnel.
   
We believe that our success depends in large part on the services of Sardar Biglari, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.  The loss of the services of Mr. Biglari could have a material adverse effect upon our business, financial condition and results of operations.  A qualified replacement for Mr. Biglari may not be available in a timely manner, if at all.

In addition, a complete discussion of material risks concerning the Company’s business is included in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 24, 2008.
 
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURTIY HOLDERS
 
At the Annual Meeting of the Steak n Shake Company held April 24, 2009, the following actions were undertaken:
 
   1.  Five directors were elected to serve until the next annual meeting and their successors are duly elected and qualified.  The results of the vote are as follows: 
 
Name
 
Votes For
 
Votes Withheld
Sardar Biglari
 
24,266,009
 
605,969
Philip Cooley
 
24,340,198
 
531,780
Ruth J. Person
 
24,237,539
 
634,439
William J. Regan, Jr.
 
24,365,262
 
506,716
John W. Ryan
 
24,351,945
 
520,033
 
   2.  Deloitte & Touche, LLP, was ratified as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the current fiscal year as follows:  
 
Votes For
 
Votes Against/Withheld
 
Abstentions/Brokers Non-Votes
24,644,170
 
159,849
 
67,959
 
   3.  The 2009 Employee Stock Purchase Plan was approved as follows:
 
Votes For
 
Votes Against/Withheld
 
Abstentions/Brokers Non-Votes
15,546,672
 
177,634
 
9,147,672
 
 
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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
 
Exhibit Number
 
Description
3.01  
By-laws of the Company, amended effective July 1, 2009
     
4.01   Eleventh Amendment to Credit Agreement by and between The Steak n Shake Company and Fifth Third Bank, Indiana (Central) dated November 21, 2008.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-k dated July 8, 2009).
     
31.01
 
Rule 13(a)-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer
     
31.02
 
Rule 13(a)-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer
     
32.01
 
Section 1350 Certifications
     
* Indicates management contract or compensatory plans or arrangements required to be filed as an Exhibit.
 
 
 
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SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
Date: August 10, 2009
 
 
THE STEAK N SHAKE COMPANY
By: /s/ Duane E. Geiger
Duane E. Geiger
Interim Chief Financial Officer, Vice President and Controller
 
 


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