<PAGE>
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                                 UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549
                            ------------------------
 
                                   FORM 10-K
 
(MARK ONE)
 
/X/  ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
     ACT OF 1934 (FEE REQUIRED)
 
     FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 28, 1996
 
                                       OR
 
/ /  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
     EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (NO FEE REQUIRED)
 
     FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM         TO
 
                           Commission file number 0-9904
 
                                ARDEN GROUP, INC.
 
              (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
<TABLE>
<S>                              <C>
           DELAWARE                           95-3163136
 (State or other jurisdiction    (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
              of
incorporation or organization)
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                           <C>
    2020 SOUTH CENTRAL AVENUE, COMPTON,
                 CALIFORNIA                     90220
  (Address of principal executive offices)    (Zip Code)
</TABLE>
 
       Registrant's telephone number, including area code (310) 638-2842
 
          Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 
<TABLE>
<S>               <C>
 TITLE OF EACH        NAME OF EACH EXCHANGE ON WHICH
     CLASS                      REGISTERED
      NONE                         NONE
</TABLE>
 
          Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
 
                              CLASS A COMMON STOCK
 
                                (Title of class)
 
    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 a check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item
405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. / /
 
    The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the
registrant based on the closing price of such stock on March 7, 1997 was:
 
Class A Common Stock $32,823,725
 
    The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's classes of common stock
as of March 7, 1997 was:
 
766,753 of Class A Common Stock
 
342,246 of Class B Common Stock
 
    This report, including the Exhibits, contains a total of 83 pages. An index
to the Exhibits appears on pages 41 and 42, inclusive.
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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<PAGE>
                                     PART I
 
ITEM 1.  BUSINESS;
 
ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES; AND
 
ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
GENERAL
 
    The Registrant, Arden Group, Inc. (sometimes hereinafter referred to as the
"Company"), is a holding company with certain real estate holdings and conducts
other operations through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Arden-Mayfair, Inc.
("Arden-Mayfair"). Arden-Mayfair's wholly-owned subsidiary, Gelson's Markets
("Gelson's"), operates supermarkets in the greater Los Angeles, California area.
Another wholly-owned subsidiary of Arden-Mayfair, AMG Holdings, Inc. ("AMG
Holdings"), distributed and serviced facsimile and other communications
equipment and parts prior to the sale of its operating assets and liabilities in
1993. See "Arbitration Proceedings" below and Note 14 of Notes to Financial
Statements.
 
    Arden Group is headquartered at 2020 South Central Avenue, Compton,
California 90220 and its telephone number is (310) 638-2842.
 
             BUSINESS AND PROPERTIES OF ARDEN-MAYFAIR AND GELSON'S
 
MARKET OPERATIONS
 
    Gelson's currently operates 12 supermarkets in the greater Los Angeles,
California area; nine under the name "Gelson's" and three under the name
"Mayfair." Gelson's and Mayfair are self-service cash-and-carry markets and
offer a broad selection of local and national brands as well as a limited number
of private label items. The Gelson's supermarkets are a chain targeted at both
the discriminating and trend-conscious customer, while the Mayfair markets,
which are smaller in size, offer a more limited selection of goods. The Company
believes that all of the stores are distinguished by their superior customer
service and merchandise presentation, selection and quality.
 
STORE FORMATS AND BUSINESS STRATEGY
 
    Gelson's business strategy is to offer a comfortable shopping experience
which is superior to its competitors in terms of customer service and
merchandise selection and presentation. The goal of this strategy is to continue
to develop and maintain Gelson's loyal and committed base of customers. Central
elements of this strategy are as follows:
 
    MERCHANDISE.  The merchandise offerings in the markets are tailored in
response to each store's customer profile, while seeking economic efficiencies
through centralized purchasing, marketing and accounting operations. Gelson's
stores, which range in size from approximately 29,000 to approximately 40,000
square feet, typically carry a wide range of items, including all of the
traditional grocery categories such as produce, dry groceries, meats, dairy,
wine and liquor, and health and beauty aids. Gelson's perishables are premium
products, which are rigorously maintained and culled as appropriate to assure
quality and freshness. Gelson's merchandising emphasizes specialty items such as
imported foods and unusual delicatessen items, and items found in service
departments such as seafood, sit-down coffee areas and bakeries.
 
    The three Mayfair stores, which are smaller than Gelson's stores
(approximately 18,000 to approximately 26,000 square feet), offer a merchandise
selection which is less broad than at Gelson's. Produce and other perishables
are the same as those purchased for Gelson's and, therefore, are of high
quality.
 
    SERVICE.  Gelson's emphasizes customer service by operating a variety of
departments offering personal service including seafood, delicatessen and bakery
departments. Some Gelson's stores include additional service departments such as
fresh pizza and pasta preparation, flower departments, coffee bars
 
                                       2
<PAGE>
and outside seating areas. Additionally, the store at Calabasas offers banking
and pharmacy services through third parties. Stores are staffed so that, even at
peak times, customer waiting in checkout lines is minimized. In addition to
checkers, there are personnel dedicated to bagging and carryout. All employees
are encouraged to know customers by name and assist them whenever possible. All
stores offer Company credit cards to qualified customers as well as allowing
customers the option of paying for their purchases with bank credit and debit
cards. Stores are typically open 12 hours to 18 hours per day, with hours of
operation determined by local code or lease provisions, or as appropriate for
the business characteristics of a specific area.
 
    PRESENTATION.  All stores are maintained in accordance with extremely high
standards. Personnel continuously fill and face shelves. Produce and other
perishables are aggressively trimmed and culled to maintain quality and
appearance.
 
    PRICING.  The pricing strategy at the stores is to be competitive within
their market niches on most products, ranging from the more traditional to the
more exotic, specialty or high-end items.
 
    EXPANSION AND STORE DEVELOPMENT.  Management regularly evaluates the
feasibility of opening new stores and remodeling existing stores in order to
maximize their appeal to consumers and their profit potential. Total capital
expenditures for 1996, including completing the development of the shopping
center and Gelson's Market in Calabasas, and costs of remodeling, new equipment
and leasehold improvements, were $12,841,000. The Company has entered into
leases for two new market locations subject to the Company's due diligence, the
developers fulfilling certain conditions and the Company attaining certain
entitlements.
 
    ADVERTISING AND PROMOTION.  Gelson's advertises in newspapers on a limited
basis. Direct advertising is limited (primarily newsletters and direct mail) and
is typically "event" rather than "price" oriented; emphasizing, for example,
special holiday selections, specialty items and services and new products.
 
COMPETITION
 
    The retail grocery business is very competitive nationwide. It is especially
intense in the greater Los Angeles area. Competition in the supermarket business
is based primarily upon price, merchandise quality, service and location. The
number of stores, market share and availability of capital are also important
competitive factors. Gelson's is in direct competition with numerous local
outlets of regional and national supermarket chains (most of which have greater
resources and a larger market share than Gelson's), independent grocery stores,
convenience stores, specialty and gourmet markets and food departments in mass
merchandise stores. Competition also exists from many other types of retailers
with respect to particular products. Stores compete primarily by offering a
combination of high-quality products and superior customer service. The Company
also believes that Gelson's prime store locations and long-standing reputation
add to its competitive strength.
 
SEASONALITY
 
    Gelson's business is somewhat seasonal, with sales tending to increase
during the last quarter of the year because of the holiday season.
 
SUPPORT AND OTHER SERVICES
 
    Each store has an on-site stockroom, the size of which varies for each
store. In addition, Gelson's operates an 89,000 square foot warehouse in the
City of Commerce, California, which distributes fresh fruits and vegetables,
liquor, and a limited number of grocery, meat, delicatessen and supply items to
stores.
 
    The bulk of all merchandise purchasing is accomplished through Gelson's
office in Encino, California. Approximately one third of the purchases are
executed through the central warehouse; the remainder are
 
                                       3
<PAGE>
delivered directly to the stores from manufacturers or wholesalers. The central
purchasing and distribution operations are conducted based on electronic
in-store ordering systems. Stores place orders for merchandise an average of
five times per week, with perishable goods ordered more frequently.
 
    The largest supplier for the stores is Certified Grocers, a cooperative
wholesaler which has been a supplier for over twenty years and which accounted
for approximately 21% of Gelson's purchases in 1996. No other supplier accounts
for a material percentage of Gelson's purchases. The Company believes that the
impact of a loss of Certified Grocers as a supplier for Gelson's likely would be
minimized by a combination of events, which could include: (i) purchasing
certain items for direct store delivery, thereby freeing warehouse capacity to
allow other items to be purchased through the warehouse, and (ii) purchasing
certain products through other wholesalers in the area. However, such a loss
could have a short-term adverse effect on the performance of Gelson's.
 
EMPLOYEES
 
    Gelson's has approximately 943 full-time and 684 part-time employees. Most
store level, warehouse and distribution employees of Gelson's are covered by
collective bargaining agreements that require union membership and establish
rates of pay, hours of work, working conditions and procedures for the orderly
settlement of disputes. In general, these agreements have been negotiated on an
area-wide and industry-wide basis. The Company believes that employee relations
are good.
 
    In addition, Arden-Mayfair has approximately 57 full-time employees at its
executive and headquarters offices, some of whom are covered by a collective
bargaining agreement.
 
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATION
 
    Gelson's is subject to regulation by a variety of governmental agencies,
including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the California Department of
Alcoholic Beverage Control, and state and local health departments. The Company
believes that Gelson's and Mayfair store operations comply with all federal,
state and local health, environmental and other laws and regulations. Although
the Company cannot predict the effect of future laws or regulations on the
operations of Gelson's, expenditures for continued compliance with current laws
are not expected to have a material effect on capital expenditures, earnings or
Gelson's competitive position.
 
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
    The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are involved in a number of
pending legal and/or administrative proceedings. Such proceedings, except as
described herein with respect to the arbitration proceedings, are not expected
individually or in the aggregate to have a material adverse effect upon either
the Company's consolidated financial position or results of operations. See
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations." In addition, the Company is involved in arbitration proceedings
related to the sale of its communication equipment business in fiscal 1993. See
"Arbitration Proceedings" and Note 14 of Notes to Financial Statements.
 
PROPERTIES
 
    The Company currently owns three and leases nine of its supermarket
properties. Also leased is the warehouse and distribution facility which
services its markets. Supermarkets are leased for terms which may include
options of up to 20 years under leases which generally stipulate a minimum
rental against a percentage of gross sales. The average term remaining on the
supermarket leases, including renewal options, is approximately 18 years. The 12
markets range in size from approximately 18,000 to approximately 40,000 square
feet. Gelson's warehouse and distribution facility in the City of Commerce,
California, consists of approximately 89,000 square feet. The term of the lease
for this facility expires on September 30, 2005.
 
                                       4
<PAGE>
    In November 1993, the Company purchased a neighborhood shopping center in
Calabasas, California and developed a new shopping center on the site on which a
Gelson's store opened in January 1996. In January 1996, the Company purchased a
site for a potential Gelson's market in Santa Barbara, California. The Company
has leased the Santa Barbara property on a short term lease (18 months) to
maximize its return on the property on an interim basis while it analyzes its
ultimate use. In 1995 the Company entered into two long-term leases to open new
Gelson's markets. The opening of Gelson's markets in each of these sites is
subject to, among other things, the Company's due diligence, receipt of
necessary governmental entitlements and the developers fulfilling certain
conditions.
 
    The Company owns its 30,000 square foot corporate headquarters office
building in Compton, California. In addition, AMG Holdings leases a 64,000
square foot building in Los Angeles consisting of office and warehouse space,
which is subleased until the lease on the property expires in 2012 (includes
renewal options).
 
ARBITRATION PROCEEDINGS
 
    Pursuant to an Asset Purchase Agreement dated September 1, 1993 (the "Asset
Purchase Agreement"), by and among Telautograph, the Company and Danka
Industries, Inc. (the "Purchaser") and Danka Business Systems PLC ("Danka"), on
September 17, 1993 AMG Holdings sold its communication equipment business and
substantially all the operating assets and certain liabilities of such business
to the Purchaser, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of Danka, for a cash
purchase price of approximately $45,780,000 (which included $1,000,000 received
for a covenant not-to-compete), subject to certain post-closing adjustments. In
fiscal 1993, AMG Holdings booked a gain related to the sale of approximately
$620,000, net of income taxes of $424,000.
 
    The purchase price and the gain are subject to adjustment after resolution
of disputes which have arisen between AMG Holdings and Purchaser concerning the
assets and liabilities transferred to the Purchaser. As a result of an
arbitration hearing, in April 1994 the Company was awarded $1,750,000 for parts
inventory which was purchased by Purchaser as part of the sale of the Company's
communication equipment business in 1993. The valuation of such inventory on the
balance sheet at the date of sale had been in dispute. No amount with respect to
this inventory had been included in the 1993 gain from the sale of such
business. Additionally, there is a second arbitration with regard to certain
items on the closing balance sheet of the communication equipment business which
are being disputed. The Company believes it is owed approximately $2,200,000
relating to the sale. The Purchaser claims there should be a reduction in the
purchase price of approximately $11,000,000. The recovery of each party's
related legal costs will also be determined in a later arbitration. No income or
expenses related to the first arbitration award and no expenses related to the
second arbitration have been recognized in the 1994 or 1995 statements of
operations of the Company. In 1996, arbitration costs which exceeded the first
arbitration award of $1,750,000, in the amount of $456,000, net of income tax
benefits of $305,000, were expensed as discontinued operations.
 
    While the Company denies the Purchaser's claims, the ultimate outcome cannot
be presently determined. The final outcome may or may not have a material impact
on the statement of operations in the year in which a decision is rendered,
however, the Company does not believe adjustments resulting from this
arbitration, if any, will have a material positive or adverse impact on the
Company's financial position. It is expected that a final arbitration decision
will be rendered in the first or second quarter of 1997 and any award would be
reflected in the Company's financial statements as an adjustment to the purchase
price of the communication equipment business sold in 1993. This discussion of
the arbitration and that contained in Note 14 of Notes to Financial Statements,
contains forward-looking statements which could vary depending upon the outcome
of the arbitration proceedings.
 
                                       5
<PAGE>
                                    PART II
 
ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER
  MATTERS
 
(a) The Company's Class A Common Stock is traded over-the-counter in the NASDAQ
    National Market System. During the past two years, the range of high and low
    sales prices (not including markups, markdowns or commissions) for each
    quarterly period was, according to NASDAQ, the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                      1996                    1995
                                                                             ----------------------  ----------------------
                                                                                  HIGH         LOW         HIGH        LOW
                                                                                  -----       -----        -----       -----
<S>                                                                            <C>         <C>          <C>         <C>
1st Quarter................................................................        66          56 1/2       46         42 1/2
2nd Quarter................................................................        79          65           47         42 1/2
3rd Quarter................................................................        67 1/2      58           52 1/2     45
4th Quarter................................................................        62          54           65 1/2     50
</TABLE>
 
    There is no established public trading market for the Company's Class B
    Common Stock, which is subject to various restrictions on transfer.
 
(b) As of December 28, 1996, there were 1,690 holders of record of the Company's
    Class A Common Stock, with aggregate holdings of 766,753 shares of Class A
    Common Stock. This does not include 339,300 shares of the Company's Class A
    Common Stock owned by AMG Holdings. As of the same date, there were 11
    holders of record of the Company's Class B Common Stock, with aggregate
    holdings of 342,246 shares of Class B Common Stock.
 
(c) No dividends have been paid on either Class A Common Stock or Class B Common
    Stock during the past three years. Cash or property dividends on Class B
    Common Stock are restricted to an amount equal to 90% of any dividend paid
    on Class A Common Stock.
 
                                       6
<PAGE>
ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA OF ARDEN GROUP, INC. (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER
         SHARE DATA AND OTHER DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      1996        1995        1994        1993        1992
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
<S>                                                <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
Operations:
Sales............................................  $  252,019  $  242,962  $  246,199  $  246,912  $  250,367
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
Gross profit.....................................      99,167      95,053      95,021      94,150      93,794
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
Operating income.................................       5,922       8,212       8,305       6,411       7,783
Other income (expense)...........................         679       3,560        (183)         50        (573)
Income tax expense...............................      (2,622)     (4,661)     (3,273)     (2,623)     (2,936)
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
Income from continuing operations, net of income
  taxes..........................................       3,979       7,111       4,849       3,838       4,274
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net
  of income taxes................................        (456)                              2,836         615
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
Income before extraordinary item.................       3,523       7,111       4,849       6,674       4,889
Extraordinary item, net of income taxes..........                                                        (406)
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
Net income.......................................  $    3,523  $    7,111  $    4,849  $    6,674  $    4,483
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
Depreciation on continuing operations............  $    4,642  $    3,308  $    3,576  $    4,110  $    4,076
Number of supermarkets at year-end...............          12          11          12          12          12
 
Financial Position:
Total assets.....................................  $   91,248  $   89,478  $   91,322  $  112,471  $  107,226
Working capital..................................  $   23,142  $   28,706  $   36,506  $   51,549  $   20,589
Long-term debt...................................  $    6,663  $    7,695  $    6,465  $    7,654  $   13,161
Stockholders' equity.............................  $   55,737  $   53,827  $   57,836  $   67,535  $   60,873
Capital expenditures.............................  $   12,841  $   10,731  $    6,948  $    6,406  $    2,449
Cash dividends paid common stock.................        None        None        None        None        None
 
Per Share Data:
Income from continuing operations................  $     3.57  $     5.47  $     3.18  $     2.38  $     2.65
Income (loss) from discontinued operations.......        (.41)                               1.76         .38
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
Income (loss) before extraordinary item..........        3.16        5.47        3.18        4.14        3.03
Extraordinary item...............................                                                        (.25)
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
Net income.......................................  $     3.16  $     5.47  $     3.18  $     4.14  $     2.78
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
Weighted average common shares outstanding.......   1,115,227   1,299,002   1,527,128   1,612,724   1,612,724
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
                                                   ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
</TABLE>
 
All years are 52 weeks except 1992 which had 53 weeks.
 
                                       7
<PAGE>
ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
         OF OPERATIONS
 
    The Company cautions readers that any forward-looking statements contained
in this Form 10-K or made by the management of the Company involve risks and
uncertainties, and are subject to change based on various important factors. The
following factors, among others, could affect the Company's financial results
and could cause the Company's financial performance to differ materially from
the expectations expressed in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf
of the Company--the strength of U.S. economy; the effects of and changes in
fiscal policies and laws, inflation and competition from other supermarkets and
retailers with a food presentation.
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
1996 COMPARED TO 1995
 
    During 1996, the Company had net income of $3,523,000 compared to net income
of $7,111,000 during 1995. Pretax income from continuing operations was
$6,601,000 for 1996 compared to pretax income of $11,772,000 for 1995. As
described below, included in 1996 income is $151,000 of net unrealized losses
related to marketable securities as compared to net unrealized gains of
$1,430,000 in 1995.
 
    During 1996, the Company's operating income from its supermarket operations
was $5,922,000 compared to operating income of $8,212,000 during 1995.
 
    Sales from the Company's 12 supermarkets in the greater Los Angeles area
were $252,019,000 in 1996, an increase of 3.7% from 1995, when sales were
$242,962,000 (1995 included sales from a Mayfair Market in West Hollywood which
was closed in October 1995). Chain wide same store sales increased 1.1% in 1996
compared to the prior year, even though sales of certain stores have been
negatively impacted by competitors opening new stores in Gelson's trading areas.
In January 1996, the Company opened a shopping center it developed in Calabasas,
California which includes a Gelson's market and spaces for additional tenants.
Although sales of the Calabasas market have improved, they have not met
projections. The Company has entered into leases for most of the tenant spaces,
some of which were unoccupied at the end of the year. It is anticipated that
supermarket sales will improve as Gelson's and the other tenants become
established in the trading area. The foregoing statement is a forward looking
statement and actual future sales are dependent on a number of factors which may
or may not occur including, among others, the timing of the opening of the
vacant spaces, the success of the other tenants and competition from other
supermarkets and shopping centers.
 
    The Company is continually searching for additional store locations and is
in varying stages of discussions on various new locations.
 
    The Company's gross profit from supermarket operations as a percentage of
sales was 39.3% in 1996 compared to 39.1% in 1995 primarily due to a sales mix
in 1996 favoring higher gross margin categories.
 
    Delivery, selling, general and administrative ("DSG&A") expenses as a
percentage of sales were 36.9% for 1996 compared to 35.7% for 1995. The increase
in 1996 is due, in part, to higher than anticipated operating costs at Calabasas
as well as preopening expenses associated with that market. Also, an increase in
real estate and remodel expenditures during the past year resulted in $1,334,000
higher depreciation expense in 1996 compared to 1995 offset partially by a
decrease in equipment rent. In 1996, the Company expensed $385,000 to settle a
claim against it for costs and damages relating to the alleged contamination of
real property previously owned by the Company. In 1995, the Company recognized
contractual credits of $966,000 against health and welfare payments due the
retail clerks and meat cutters unions. No such credits were received in 1996.
Included in 1996 DSG&A is a gain of $584,000 relating to the property sale of a
former Mayfair market located in West Hollywood, California.
 
    Interest and dividend income was $1,728,000 in 1996 compared to $2,702,000
in 1995 due to decreased levels of investments and a decrease in earnings rates.
 
                                       8
<PAGE>
    Interest expense increased to $879,000 in 1996 from $559,000 in 1995
primarily due to an increase in average fixture financing debt levels in 1996
versus 1995 and interest resulting from a Federal income tax audit.
 
    In 1996, the market value of the Company's aggregate holdings in marketable
securities decreased from the market value of such holdings at December 30,
1995. Pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115,
"Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities", net
unrealized losses of $151,000 related to marketable securities were reflected in
income in 1996 compared to net unrealized gains of $1,430,000 in 1995.
 
    For an analysis of the Company's provision for income taxes, see Note 10 of
Notes to Financial Statements.
 
    In 1996, the Company recognized in discontinued operations $456,000 of
costs, net of income tax benefits of $305,000, associated with an arbitration of
disputed items relating to the sale of the communication equipment business in
1993. See Note 14 of Notes to Financial Statements. It is expected that a final
arbitration decision will be rendered in the first or second quarter of 1997 and
any award would be reflected in the Company's financial statements as an
adjustment to the purchase price of the communication equipment business sold in
1993. The final outcome may or may not have a material impact on the statement
of operations in the year a decision is made, however, the Company does not
believe adjustments resulting from this arbitration, if any, will have a
material adverse impact on the Company's financial position. This discussion of
the arbitration and that contained in Note 14 of Notes to Financial Statements,
contains forward-looking statements which could vary depending upon the outcome
of the arbitration proceedings.
 
    Net income per share is based on the weighted average number of common
shares outstanding during the period.
 
1995 COMPARED TO 1994
 
    During 1995, the Company had net income of $7,111,000 compared to $4,849,000
during 1994. Pretax income was $11,772,000 for 1995 compared to $8,122,000 for
1994. As described below, included in 1995 income are $1,430,000 of net
unrealized gains related to marketable securities compared to net unrealized
losses of $1,786,000 in 1994.
 
    During 1995, the Company's operating income from its market operations was
$8,212,000 compared to $8,492,000 during 1994 representing a decrease of
approximately 3.3%. Sales from the Company's supermarkets were $242,962,000 in
1995, an increase of 0.6% from 1994 when sales were $241,587,000. Same store
sales increased 1.5% in 1995 compared to 1994. Sales have been negatively
impacted by competitors opening new stores in Gelson's trading areas.
 
    In November 1993, the Company purchased a neighborhood shopping center in
Calabasas, California and developed a new shopping center on the site on which a
Gelson's store opened in January 1996. Additionally, there are spaces for
thirteen tenants in the center. In January 1996, the Company purchased a
potential site for a Gelson's Market in Santa Barbara. The Company has also
signed two long-term leases to open new Gelson's markets subject to the
Company's due diligence, receipt of necessary entitlements and the developer
fulfilling certain conditions. In October 1995, the Company closed a Mayfair
Market in West Hollywood, California.
 
    The Company's gross profit from market operations as a percentage of sales
was 39.1% in 1995 compared to 38.9% in 1994.
 
    Delivery, selling, general and administrative ("DSG&A") expenses for the
market operations were $86,841,000 in 1995 compared to $85,451,000 in 1994.
Expenses as a percentage of sales were 35.7% in 1995 compared to 35.4% in 1994.
As a result of negotiations for new collective bargaining agreements
 
                                       9
<PAGE>
completed in 1993 covering retail clerks and meat cutters, Gelson's recognized
$966,000 and $2,500,000 in credits in 1995 and 1994, respectively, against
health and welfare payments otherwise payable. In 1994 the Company recognized
charges of $1,080,000 to terminate a vacant store lease and to reserve for the
remaining lease costs of two vacant stores located in Arizona. The closure of
the original Calabasas shopping center, the subsequent development of the new
shopping center and higher levels of real estate activity increased DSG&A
expense by approximately $580,000 in 1995 compared to 1994. Improved claims
history resulted in lower workers' compensation expense of approximately
$750,000 in 1995 compared to 1994.
 
    The Company's interest and dividend income was $2,702,000 in 1995 compared
to $3,050,000 for the same period in 1994. This decrease in interest income was
the result of a decreased level of short-term investments and marketable
securities partially offset by an increase in earnings rates on investments.
 
    Interest expense for the Company was $559,000 in 1995 compared to $946,000
for 1994. The Company retired approximately $5,310,000 in mortgage debt in 1994
and had lower average levels of capital lease and fixture debt in 1995 compared
to 1994.
 
    In 1995, net unrealized gains of $1,430,000 related to marketable securities
were reflected in earnings compared to net unrealized losses of $1,786,000 in
1994. Net realized gains on the sale of securities were $31,000 in 1995 compared
to net realized losses of $663,000 in 1994.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
    The Company has an ongoing program to remodel existing supermarkets and to
add new stores. In 1996, the Company had capital expenditures of approximately
$12,840,000. At December 28, 1996, capital expenditure commitments were
approximately $600,000, with additional projects anticipated for commencement
during 1997.
 
    In 1996, the Company purchased a site for a potential Gelson's Market in
Santa Barbara, California. The Company has leased the Santa Barbara property on
a short term lease (18 months) to maximize its return on the property on an
interim basis while it analyzes its ultimate use. In 1995, the Company entered
into long-term leases to open two new Gelson's markets. The opening of Gelson's
markets in each of these sites is subject to, among other things, the Company's
due diligence, receipt of necessary governmental approvals and the developers
fulfilling certain conditions.
 
    The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to a myriad of environmental
laws and regulations regarding air, water and land use, and the use, storage and
disposal of hazardous materials. The Company believes it substantially complies,
and has in the past substantially complied, with federal, state, and local
environmental laws and regulations. However, a claim has been made against the
Company in connection with a real property previously leased by a subsidiary of
the Company by the current owner of such property. The Company has been asked to
pay for a portion of the cost of remediation of hazardous substances allegedly
existing on such properties. The Company cannot at this time estimate the
expenses it ultimately may incur in connection with the claim, however, it
believes such expense will not be of a material amount. Although unexpected
violations may occur in the future and although the Company cannot predict the
effect of future laws or regulations on the Company's operations, expenditures
for continued compliance with current laws are not expected to have a material
impact on its capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position.
 
    The Company has a credit facility with a bank with a revolving line of
credit totaling $9,000,000 with a standby letter of credit subfacility in the
amount of $5,000,000, and a non-revolving term loan line of credit totaling
$10,000,000, and a revolving line of credit with another bank in the amount of
$3,000,000. The Company borrowed $2,750,000 against the term loan line of credit
at December 30, 1995 to finance store fixtures and equipment of which $2,200,000
is outstanding at December 28, 1996. There were no borrowings against either of
the revolving lines as of December 28, 1996. The Company's current cash
 
                                       10
<PAGE>
position including marketable securities, the lines of credit and net cash
provided by operating activities (approximately $6,408,000 for 1996) are the
primary resources of funds available to maintain the Company's current liquidity
requirements. See Note 7 of Notes to Financial Statements for a description of
the Company's credit lines.
 
    In 1996 the Company purchased 25,884 shares of Class A Common Stock for
approximately $1,613,000. In 1995, 179,229 shares were purchased for
$11,194,000.
 
    The Company's total liabilities to equity ratio decreased to .64 at December
28, 1996 from .66 at December 30, 1995. The Company's current ratio was 1.96 at
December 28, 1996 compared to 2.21 at December 30, 1995. The Company's current
assets at the end of 1996 were approximately $5,200,000 less than at the end of
1995 primarily due to the use of funds for capital expenditures including real
estate and remodel expenditures incurred in 1996 and the purchase of stock.
 
    The Company's cash position, including marketable securities, at the end of
1996 was $26,829,000 compared to $30,262,000 at the end of 1995. Cash not
required for the immediate needs of the Company has been temporarily invested in
marketable securities. See Note 1 of Notes to Financial Statements. The Company
is actively investigating opportunities for the use of these funds, including
the expansion of its supermarket operations.
 
ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
 
    See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements, Supporting Schedules and
Supplemental Data.
 
ITEM 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
         FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
 
    None.
 
                                       11
<PAGE>
                                    PART III
 
ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
 
    IDENTIFICATION OF DIRECTORS
 
    Below is set forth certain information about each of the directors of the
Company as of March 7, 1997. Certain of this information has been supplied by
the persons shown.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION (1)                     DIRECTOR       TERM
NAME                             AGE                        AND OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS                       SINCE       EXPIRES
---------------------------      ---      -----------------------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------
<S>                          <C>          <C>                                                          <C>          <C>
Bernard Briskin............          72   Chairman of the Board of Directors, President and Chief            1970         1998
                                          Executive Officer of the Company and Arden-Mayfair, Inc., a
                                          subsidiary of the Company, and Chairman of the Board of AMG
                                          Holdings, Inc. and Gelson's Markets, both subsidiaries of
                                          Arden-Mayfair.
 
John G. Danhakl............          40   Partner, Leonard Green & Partners since March 1995.                1995         1998
                                          Managing Director of Donaldson Lufkin Jenrette Securities
                                          Corporation from March 1990 to February 1995.
 
Robert A. Davidow..........          54   Director of WHX Corporation since April 1991; private              1993         1999
                                          investor.
 
Stuart A. Krieger..........          79   Business Consultant. Director of American Rocket Co.               1978         1997
 
Daniel Lembark.............          72   Financial consultant and Certified Public Accountant.              1978         1998
 
Ben Winters................          76   Business Consultant.                                               1978         1997
</TABLE>
 
------------------------
 
(1) Unless otherwise indicated, principal occupation or occupations shown have
    been such for a period of at least five years in the aggregate.
 
(2) Date shown for term of service indicates commencement of service as a
    director of the Company or Arden-Mayfair.
 
    IDENTIFICATION OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
 
    Below is set forth certain information about each of the executive officers
of the Company as of March 7, 1997:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME                          AGE                                         POSITION(S)
------------------------      ---      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                       <C>          <C>
Bernard Briskin.........          72   Chairman of the Board of Directors, President and Chief Executive Officer of the
                                       Company and Arden-Mayfair, and Chairman of the Board of AMG Holdings and Gelson's
                                       Markets.
 
Ernest T. Klinger.......          61   Vice President Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer of the
                                       Company and Arden-Mayfair, and Secretary/Treasurer of AMG Holdings and Gelson's
                                       Markets.
</TABLE>
 
    Mr. Briskin served as Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of
Directors of Arden-Mayfair until August 1978, when he was elected President and
Chief Executive Officer of Arden-Mayfair. In November 1978, Mr. Briskin was
elected President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and in June 1994 he
was elected Chairman of the Board of the Company. Mr. Briskin serves as Chairman
of the
 
                                       12
<PAGE>
Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Arden-Mayfair,
and Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of AMG Holdings and
Gelson's Markets, pursuant to an employment agreement which expires on January
1, 2001, although the term will be automatically extended for successive one
year periods unless certain termination notices are given by either Mr. Briskin
or the employers. See "Item 11. Executive Compensation".
 
    Mr. Klinger has been Vice President Finance and Administration and Chief
Financial Officer of the Company since October 1986. Between January 1983 and
September 1986 he held the position of Vice President Finance and Treasurer and
Chief Financial Officer of the Company. In 1989, he was appointed
Secretary/Treasurer of Gelson's Markets and in 1993 was appointed
Secretary/Treasurer of AMG Holdings, Inc.
 
    Except for Mr. Briskin, who has an employment agreement, all officers serve
at the pleasure of the Board of Directors.
 
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
 
    GENERAL
 
    The following table sets forth the total annual and long-term compensation
paid or accrued by the Company and its subsidiaries in connection with all
businesses of the Company and its subsidiaries to or for the account of the
Chief Executive Officer of the Company and each other executive officer of the
Company whose total annual salary and bonus for the fiscal year ended December
28, 1996 exceeded in the aggregate $100,000.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                          LONG TERM COMPENSATION
                                                                                   -------------------------------------
                                                                                            AWARDS
                                                                                   ------------------------
                                                                                                SECURITIES-
                                              ANNUAL COMPENSATION                               UNDERLYING     PAYOUTS
                                                                    OTHER ANNUAL   RESTRICTED    OPTIONS/    -----------
                                              --------------------  COMPENSATION      STOCK        SARS         LTIP
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION          YEAR     SALARY($)  BONUS($)      ($)(4)      AWARD(S)(1)    (#)(1)     PAYOUTS(1)
---------------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  -------------  -----------  -----------  -----------
<S>                                <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>            <C>          <C>          <C>
Bernard Briskin,                        1996    450,177    191,632
Chief Executive                         1995    444,400    407,624
Officer                                 1994    440,000    273,068
 
Ernest T. Klinger,                      1996    190,000     40,000
CFO, VP Finance                         1995    190,000     40,000
and Administration                      1994    190,000          0
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                    ALL OTHER
                                     COMPEN-
                                     SATION
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION         ($)(2)(3)
---------------------------------  -----------
<S>                                <C>
Bernard Briskin,                        9,000
Chief Executive                        10,500
Officer                                40,742
Ernest T. Klinger,                      9,000
CFO, VP Finance                        10,500
and Administration                     10,500
</TABLE>
 
------------------------
 
(1) The Company did not grant to Mr. Briskin or Mr. Klinger any restricted
    stock, stock options or stock appreciation rights ("SARs") and made no
    payout to them on any long-term incentive plan in fiscal years 1996, 1995,
    or 1994.
 
(2) Includes the Company contribution to the Arden Group, Inc. 401(k) Retirement
    Savings Plan and the Arden Group, Inc. Stock Bonus Plan. In 1996, Messrs.
    Briskin and Klinger were each allocated $6,000 to their 401(k) account and
    $3,000 to their Stock Bonus Plan account. Mr. Briskin's 1994 balance
    includes $30,242 for the purpose of purchasing life insurance.
 
(3) Does not include retirement benefits from the Telautograph Pension Plan
    (terminated in December 1993).
 
(4) Perquisites and other personal benefits did not exceed the lesser of $50,000
    or 10% of the compensation received by the named officers in any of the
    years for which compensation information is reported.
 
                                       13
<PAGE>
    EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
 
    The compensation of Mr. Bernard Briskin, the Chief Executive Officer of the
Company, is established under an Employment Agreement dated May 13, 1988 (the
"Employment Agreement") which was amended in April 1994, effective January 1,
1994 (the "Amended Employment Agreement"). The term of the Amended Employment
Agreement expires January 1, 2001. Pursuant to the terms of the Amended
Employment Agreement, Mr. Briskin's base salary was increased effective January
1, 1997 to $460,081 per year and will be increased on January 1 of each
succeeding year of the term of the Amended Employment Agreement based upon
increases in the Consumer Price Index subject, however, to a maximum annual
increase. His annual bonus will equal 2 1/2% of the Company's first $2,000,000
of Pre-Tax Profits (as defined in the Amended Employment Agreement) plus 3 1/2%
of Pre-Tax Profits in excess of $2,000,000. The Amended Agreement also provides
for certain expense reimbursement and personal benefits, including payment or
reimbursement for uninsured medical expenses of Mr. Briskin and his immediate
family up to a maximum of $100,000 during any calendar year. In addition, if he
becomes permanently disabled, dies or his employment is terminated prior to
January 1, 2001, the cumulative unpaid portion of two notes from Mr. Briskin to
the Company, in the amount of $295,000 as of March 7, 1997, will be forgiven
(see Item 13). In addition, the maturity dates of the two notes is December 31,
2000 with seven equal annual payments of principal plus interest at 6% per
annum.
 
    REMUNERATION OF DIRECTORS
 
    Non-employee directors are compensated for their services as directors at an
annual rate of $18,000, plus $1,000 for each Board meeting attended and $1,000
for attendance at each committee meeting. Non-employee directors who serve as
committee chairmen are entitled to an additional $4,200 per year. In 1996, the
Company awarded Frederick A. Schnell, who had served as a Director of the
Company through June 19, 1996, payment of $50,000 in recognition of his over 20
years of service as a Director of the Company. Such sum is payable in three
installments of $8,000, $24,000 and $18,000 on September 1996, January 1997 and
January 1998, respectively. Mr. Briskin is an employee of the Company and does
not receive the compensation otherwise payable to directors.
 
    COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
 
    The Board of Directors has a Compensation Committee. In 1996 the
Compensation Committee was comprised of the following directors:
 
                                          John G. Danhakl, Chairman
 
                                          Robert A. Davidow
 
                                          Daniel Lembark
 
ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
 
(a) Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners
 
                                       14
<PAGE>
    The following table sets forth information as of March 7, 1997 relating to
the stockholdings of persons known to the Company to be the beneficial owner of
more than 5% of any class of the Company's voting securities: (1)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                 AMOUNT AND
                                                                                  NATURE OF
                                                                                 BENEFICIAL    PERCENT OF    PERCENT OF
       NAME AND ADDRESS OF BENEFICIAL OWNER               TITLE OF CLASS          OWNERSHIP      CLASS       TOTAL VOTE
--------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------  -----------  ------------  -------------
<S>                                                 <C>                          <C>          <C>           <C>
City National Bank, as Trustee of the Company's        Class A Common Stock         209,459         27.3%          5.0%
  Stock Bonus Plan and Trust (the "Stock Bonus
  Plan")
  500 North Roxbury Drive
  Suite 500
  Beverly Hills, CA 90210
 
Bernard Briskin                                        Class A Common Stock         169,516(2)       22.1%         4.0%
  Arden Group, Inc.
  9595 Wilshire Blvd.
  Suite 411
  Beverly Hills, CA 90212
 
Bernard Briskin                                        Class B Common Stock         340,624         99.5%         81.3%
</TABLE>
 
------------------------
 
(1) Unless otherwise indicated to the contrary, all beneficial owners have sole
    investment and voting power. For purposes of this table, 339,300 shares of
    Company Class A Common Stock, which are held by AMG Holdings, are not deemed
    to be outstanding.
 
(2) This amount includes the following shares: (i) 60,341 shares owned by Mr.
    Briskin's wife; (ii) 46,524 shares held in trust (of which Mr. Briskin is a
    trustee) for the benefit of Mr. Briskin, his children and his mother; and
    (iii) 24,503 shares held in an Individual Retirement Account by Mr.
    Briskin's wife. Mr. Briskin disclaims any beneficial ownership of the shares
    set forth in clauses (i) and (iii) hereof. Mr. Briskin shares voting and
    investment power with respect to the shares referred to in clause (ii),
    shares voting power but denies that he has or shares investment power with
    respect to the shares referred to in clauses (i) and (iii). Nothing herein
    should be construed as an admission that Mr. Briskin is in fact the
    beneficial owner of any of these shares.
 
    If Mr. Briskin converted all of his Class B Common Stock to Class A Common
Stock (convertible on a share for share basis) his beneficial ownership of Class
A Common Stock would be increased to 510,140 shares or 46%.
 
(b) Security Ownership of Management
 
                                       15
<PAGE>
    The following table shows, as of March 7, 1997, the beneficial ownership of
the Company's equity securities by each director, executive officer and by all
directors and executive officers as a group: (1)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                 AMOUNT AND
                                                                                  NATURE OF
                                                                                 BENEFICIAL    PERCENT OF    PERCENT OF
NAME OF BENEFICIAL OWNER                                  TITLE OF CLASS          OWNERSHIP      CLASS       TOTAL VOTE
--------------------------------------------------  ---------------------------  -----------  ------------  -------------
<S>                                                 <C>                          <C>          <C>           <C>
Bernard Briskin...................................     Class A Common Stock         169,516(2)       22.1%         4.0%
                                                    Class B Common Stock.......     340,624         99.5%         80.9%
John G. Danhakl...................................     Class A Common Stock               0
Robert A. Davidow.................................     Class A Common Stock               0
Ernest T. Klinger.................................     Class A Common Stock             342(3)        (4)          (5)
Stuart A. Krieger.................................     Class A Common Stock               0
Daniel Lembark....................................     Class A Common Stock               0
Ben Winters.......................................     Class A Common Stock             100          (4)           (5)
All directors and executive officers as a group (7
 persons).........................................     Class A Common Stock         169,958(3)       21.6%         4.0%
                                                       Class B Common Stock         340,624         99.5%         81.3%
</TABLE>
 
------------------------
 
(1) Unless otherwise indicated to the contrary, all beneficial owners have sole
    investment and voting power. The number of outstanding shares of Company
    Class A Common Stock on which the percentages shown in this table are based
    does not include 339,300 shares of Company Class A Common Stock held by AMG
    Holdings.
 
(2) See note (2) to the table under "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial
    Owners" set forth above.
 
(3) Includes shares held in the Company Stock Bonus Plan for their accounts.
 
(4) Did not exceed 1% of the outstanding shares of the class.
 
(5) Did not exceed 1% of the total vote.
 
ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
 
    In connection with the purchase by Mr. Briskin of shares of the Company's
Class A Common Stock in 1979 and 1980, the Company loaned Mr. Briskin $212,500
and $303,750, respectively. The notes mature on December 31, 2000 with
approximately equal annual payments of principal plus interest at 6% per annum.
The highest cumulative outstanding balance of the two loans was $368,750 during
1996 and was $295,000 as of March 7, 1997.
 
                                       16
<PAGE>
                                    PART IV
 
ITEM 14.  EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
 
(a) Exhibits and Financial Statements and Schedules
 
       (1) Financial Statements
           See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements, Supporting Schedules
           and Supplementary Data
 
       (2) Financial Statement Schedules
           See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements, Supporting Schedules
           and Supplementary Data
 
       (3) Exhibits
           See Index to Exhibits
 
    (b) Reports on Form 8-K
 
    None
 
    (c) Exhibits
 
    See Index to Exhibits
 
    (d) Other Financial Schedules
 
    See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements, Supporting Schedules and
Supplementary Data
 
                                       17
<PAGE>
                       THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
 
                                       18
<PAGE>
                                   SIGNATURES
 
    Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.
 
                                          ARDEN GROUP, INC.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                              DATE
                                                                                                            ---------
<S>                                                        <C>                                              <C>
                                                           By BERNARD BRISKIN
                                                             Bernard Briskin,
                                                             Chairman of the Board,
                                                             President and Chief Executive Officer           3/18/97
 
                                                           By ERNEST T. KLINGER
                                                             Ernest T. Klinger,
                                                             Vice President Finance and Administration and
                                                           Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial
                                                           and Principal Accounting Officer)                 3/18/97
</TABLE>
 
    Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated. The undersigned have
also relied upon the reports of the registrant's independent accountants at page
21.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          DATE
                                                        ---------
<S>                                                     <C>
             BERNARD BRISKIN
 --------------------------------------------            3/18/97
 Bernard Briskin, Director and Chairman of the Board
 
             JOHN G. DANHAKL
 --------------------------------------------            3/18/97
 John G. Danhakl, Director
 
           ROBERT A. DAVIDOW
 --------------------------------------------            3/18/97
 Robert A. Davidow, Director
 
            STUART A. KRIEGER
 --------------------------------------------            3/18/97
 Stuart A. Krieger, Director
 
             DANIEL LEMBARK
 --------------------------------------------            3/18/97
 Daniel Lembark, Director
 
               BEN WINTERS
 --------------------------------------------            3/18/97
 Ben Winters, Director
</TABLE>
 
                                       19
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
              INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, SUPPORTING SCHEDULES
                             AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
 
                            ------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                                PAGE
                                                                                                                -----
<S>                                                                                                          <C>
Report of Independent Accountants..........................................................................          21
Financial Statements:
  Balance Sheets, December 28, 1996 and December 30, 1995..................................................          22
  Statements of Operations for fiscal years 1996, 1995 and 1994............................................          23
  Statements of Stockholders' Equity for fiscal years 1996, 1995 and 1994..................................          24
  Statements of Cash Flows for fiscal years 1996, 1995 and 1994............................................          25
  Notes to Financial Statements............................................................................          26
    The financial statements include the Registrant's subsidiary (Arden-Mayfair, Inc.) and the subsidiaries
     of Arden-Mayfair, Inc.
Selected Quarterly Financial Data..........................................................................          39
Financial Statement Schedule:
  VIII Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves for the fiscal years ended December 28, 1996,
    December 30, 1995 and December 31, 1994................................................................          40
</TABLE>
 
    Schedules other than those listed above are omitted because of the absence
of the conditions under which they are required.
 
                                       20
<PAGE>
                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
To the Stockholders of
 
Arden Group, Inc.
 
    We have audited the consolidated financial statements and the financial
statement schedule of Arden Group, Inc. and its subsidiary listed in the index
on page 20 of this Form 10-K. These financial statements and financial statement
schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility
is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement
schedule based on our audits.
 
    We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
    In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly,
in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Arden Group,
Inc. and its subsidiary at December 28, 1996 and December 30, 1995, and the
consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the
three fiscal years in the period ended December 28, 1996 in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles. In addition, in our opinion, the
financial statement schedule referred to above, when considered in relation to
the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material
respects, the information required to be included therein.
 
                                          COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.
 
Los Angeles, California
 
March 14, 1997
 
                                       21
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
                                 BALANCE SHEETS
                     (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                             DECEMBER 28, 1996  DECEMBER 30, 1995
                                                                             -----------------  -----------------
<S>                                                                          <C>                <C>
                                  ASSETS
 
Current assets:
  Cash.....................................................................      $   5,473          $  10,102
  Marketable securities....................................................         21,356             20,160
  Accounts and notes receivable, net.......................................          6,629              9,384
  Inventories..............................................................         10,728             10,172
  Other current assets.....................................................          3,102              2,646
                                                                                   -------            -------
    Total current assets...................................................         47,288             52,464
Notes receivable...........................................................             82                 57
Property for resale or sublease............................................          1,440              1,461
Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation and
  amortization.............................................................         39,875             33,458
Other assets...............................................................          2,563              2,038
                                                                                   -------            -------
    Total assets...........................................................      $  91,248          $  89,478
                                                                                   -------            -------
                                                                                   -------            -------
                   LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
Current liabilities:
  Accounts payable, trade..................................................      $  11,357          $  11,345
  Other current liabilities................................................         11,816             11,335
  Current portion of long-term debt........................................            973              1,078
                                                                                   -------            -------
    Total current liabilities..............................................         24,146             23,758
Long-term debt.............................................................          6,663              7,695
Deferred income taxes......................................................          2,160              1,583
Other liabilities..........................................................          2,542              2,615
                                                                                   -------            -------
    Total liabilities......................................................         35,511             35,651
                                                                                   -------            -------
Commitments and contingent liabilities
Stockholders' equity:
  Common stock, Class A, $.25 par value; 1,106,053 and 1,130,937 shares
    issued, respectively, including 339,300 treasury shares................            276                283
  Common stock, Class B, $.25 par value; 342,246 and 343,246 shares issued
    and outstanding, respectively..........................................             86                 86
  Capital surplus..........................................................          5,617              5,718
  Notes receivable from officer/director...................................           (369)              (369)
  Retained earnings........................................................         53,880             51,862
                                                                                   -------            -------
                                                                                    59,490             57,580
  Less, treasury stock; 339,000 shares at cost.............................          3,753              3,753
                                                                                   -------            -------
    Total stockholders' equity.............................................         55,737             53,827
                                                                                   -------            -------
    Total liabilities and stockholders' equity.............................      $  91,248          $  89,478
                                                                                   -------            -------
                                                                                   -------            -------
</TABLE>
 
        The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
 
                                       22
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
                            STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                1996        1995        1994
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
<S>                                                                          <C>         <C>         <C>
Sales......................................................................  $  252,019  $  242,962  $  246,199
Cost of Sales..............................................................     152,852     147,909     151,178
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
    Gross profit...........................................................      99,167      95,053      95,021
Delivery, selling, general and administrative expenses.....................      93,245      86,841      86,716
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
    Operating income.......................................................       5,922       8,212       8,305
Interest and dividend income...............................................       1,728       2,702       3,050
Other income (expense), net................................................         (19)        (13)       (501)
Interest expense...........................................................        (879)       (559)       (946)
Net unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities........................        (151)      1,430      (1,786)
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
    Income from continuing operations before income taxes..................       6,601      11,772       8,122
Income tax provision.......................................................       2,622       4,661       3,273
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
    Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes.................       3,979       7,111       4,849
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax benefits of $305......        (456)
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
    Net income.............................................................  $    3,523  $    7,111  $    4,849
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
Net income per common share (computed on weighted average common shares
  outstanding):
  Income from continuing operations........................................  $     3.57  $     5.47  $     3.18
  Loss from discontinued operations........................................        (.41)
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
  Net income...............................................................  $     3.16  $     5.47  $     3.18
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
Weighted average common shares outstanding.................................   1,115,227   1,299,002   1,527,128
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
                                                                             ----------  ----------  ----------
</TABLE>
 
        The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
 
                                       23
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
                       STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                       (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT STOCK DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                     1996       1995       1994
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                                                                <C>        <C>        <C>
Common stock, Class A:
  Balance, beginning of year.....................................................  $     283  $     327  $     402
  Purchase and retirement of stock (25,884, 179,229 and 298,612 shares,
    respectively)................................................................         (7)       (44)       (75)
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
    Balance, end of year.........................................................        276        283        327
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
Common stock, Class B:
  Balance, beginning and end of year.............................................         86         86         86
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
Capital surplus:
  Balance, beginning of year.....................................................      5,718      6,413      7,571
  Purchase and retirement of common stock........................................       (101)      (695)    (1,158)
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
    Balance, end of year.........................................................      5,617      5,718      6,413
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
Notes receivable from officer/director:
  Balance, beginning of year.....................................................       (369)      (442)    (1,502)
  Principal paid.................................................................                    73      1,074
  Amortization of present value discount.........................................                              (14)
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
    Balance, end of year.........................................................       (369)      (369)      (442)
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
Retained earnings:
  Balance, beginning of year.....................................................     51,862     55,205     64,731
  Net income for the year........................................................      3,523      7,111      4,849
  Purchase and retirement of common stock........................................     (1,505)   (10,454)   (14,375)
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
    Balance, end of year.........................................................     53,880     51,862     55,205
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
Stockholders' equity before treasury stock.......................................     59,490     57,580     61,589
Treasury stock, at cost..........................................................     (3,753)    (3,753)    (3,753)
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
    Total stockholders' equity...................................................  $  55,737  $  53,827  $  57,836
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                                   ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
 
        The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
 
                                       24
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
 
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                            STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                      1996       1995       1994
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                                                                 <C>        <C>        <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
  Cash received from customers....................................................  $ 252,482  $ 243,589  $ 244,598
  Cash paid to suppliers and employees............................................   (242,869)  (231,614)  (235,228)
  Sales/maturities of marketable securities.......................................     28,751     13,017     41,646
  Purchases of marketable securities..............................................    (30,062)   (12,003)   (40,766)
  Interest and dividends received.................................................      1,678      2,784      3,166
  Interest paid...................................................................       (878)      (701)      (934)
  Income taxes paid...............................................................     (2,694)    (4,085)    (2,606)
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
    Net cash provided by operating activities.....................................      6,408     10,987      9,876
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
Cash flows from investing activities:
  Capital expenditures............................................................    (12,841)   (10,731)    (6,948)
  Deposits for property in escrow.................................................      2,664     (2,664)
  Net cash from sale of GPS.......................................................                 2,511        818
  Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment, liquor licenses and
    leasehold interests...........................................................      2,338        241         55
  Payments received on notes from the sale of property, plant and equipment and
    liquor licenses...............................................................          3          3         20
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
    Net cash (used) provided in investing activities..............................     (7,836)   (10,640)    (6,055)
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
Cash flows from financing activities:
  Purchase and retirement of stock................................................     (1,613)   (11,193)   (15,608)
  Principal payments on long-term debt............................................       (752)      (199)    (5,486)
  Transfer to discontinued operations.............................................       (456)               (2,556)
  Principal payments under capital lease obligations..............................       (325)      (917)    (1,530)
  Loan payments from officer/director.............................................                    73      1,074
  Proceeds from equipment financing...............................................                 2,750
  Purchase of Company debentures..................................................        (55)
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
    Net cash used in financing activities.........................................     (3,201)    (9,486)   (24,106)
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
Net increase (decrease) in cash...................................................  $  (4,629) $  (9,139) $ (20,285)
Cash at beginning of year.........................................................     10,102     19,241     39,526
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
Cash at end of year...............................................................  $   5,473  $  10,102  $  19,241
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Net income........................................................................  $   3,523  $   7,111  $   4,849
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
  Loss from discontinued operations...............................................        456
  Depreciation and amortization...................................................      4,686      3,480      3,659
  Unrealized (gain) loss on marketable securities.................................        151     (1,430)     1,786
  Provision for losses on accounts and notes receivable...........................         55         94        348
  Net loss (gain) from the sale of property, plant and equipment, liquor licenses
    and early lease terminations..................................................       (556)       (33)        67
  Gain on sale of GPS.............................................................                               (9)
  Note receivable from officer/director...........................................                              (14)
  Non-compete payment on sale of GPS..............................................                   (86)      (217)
  Gain on purchase of 7% debentures...............................................         (5)
Change in assets and liabilities net of effects from noncash investment and
  financing activities:
  (Increase) decrease in assets:
    Accounts and notes receivable.................................................          8        647       (950)
    Marketable securities.........................................................     (1,347)       970      1,552
    Inventories...................................................................       (556)       493       (904)
    Other current assets..........................................................       (456)      (465)    (1,244)
    Other assets..................................................................       (548)      (325)       222
  Increase (decrease) in liabilities:
    Accounts payable and other accrued expenses...................................        493       (507)     3,044
    Deferred income taxes.........................................................        577        474       (972)
    Other liabilities.............................................................        (73)       564     (1,341)
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
Net cash provided by operating activities.........................................  $   6,408  $  10,987  $   9,876
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
 
        The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
 
                                       25
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                         NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
1.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
 
    The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed in
the preparation of these financial statements.
 
    BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION
 
    The consolidated financial statements of Arden Group, Inc. (the "Company")
include the accounts of the Company and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.
The Company operates exclusively in the supermarket business.
 
    FISCAL YEAR
 
    The Company operates on a fiscal year ending on the Saturday closest to
December 31. Fiscal years for the financial statements included herein ended on
December 28, 1996, December 30, 1995, and December 31, 1994.
 
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
 
    The Statements of Cash Flows classify changes in cash or cash equivalents
(short-term, highly liquid investments readily convertible into cash with an
original maturity at date of purchase of three months or less) according to
operating, investing or financing activities. Financial instruments which
potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist
principally of cash and temporary cash investments. At times, cash balances held
at financial institutions were in excess of FDIC insurance limits. The Company
places its temporary cash investments with high-credit, quality financial
institutions and, by policy, limits the amount of credit exposure to any one
financial institution. The Company believes no significant concentration of
credit risk exists with respect to these cash investments.
 
    MARKETABLE SECURITIES
 
    Marketable securities consist of mutual funds, fixed-income securities,
preferred stock, common stock, mortgage backed government securities and
collateralized mortgage obligations. Marketable securities are stated at market
value. By policy, the Company invests primarily in high-grade marketable
securities. All marketable securities are defined as trading securities under
the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115,
"Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities" (SFAS 115)
and unrealized holding gains and losses are reflected in earnings.
 
    The Company enters into various forward commitments, interest rate futures
and currency forwards in an effort to maximize its return on investments in
trading securities while managing risk. Interest rate futures and currency
forwards are carried at market value based on quotes from brokers. The risk of
loss to the Company in the event of nonperformance by any party under these
agreements is not significant. Gains and losses on foreign currency forwards
which serves as effective hedges of currency exposure on investments in foreign
debt are offset against gains and losses resulting from the underlying
transactions. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on interest rate futures
are recognized currently.
 
    Market value is determined by the most recently traded price of the security
at the balance sheet date. Net realized gains or losses are determined on the
FIFO cost method.
 
                                       26
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
1.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (CONTINUED)
    ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
 
    The Company closely monitors extensions of credit and has not experienced
significant losses related to its receivables. At December 28, 1996, the Company
did not have significant credit risk concentrations. No single group or customer
represents greater than 2% of total accounts and notes receivable. Issuance
costs related to Gelson's charge cards are not significant and are expensed as
incurred.
 
    INVENTORIES
 
    The cost of supermarket nonperishable inventories is determined by the
retail inventory method using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method, which is
lower than market. Perishable supermarket and other inventories are valued at
the lower of cost (first-in/first-out, or average) or market.
 
    PROPERTY FOR RESALE OR SUBLEASE
 
    It is the Company's policy to make available for sale or sublease property
considered by management as excess and no longer necessary for the operations of
the Company. The aggregate carrying values of such owned property and property
under capital leases are periodically reviewed and adjusted downward to market,
when appropriate.
 
    PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
 
    Owned property, plant and equipment is valued at cost. Depreciation is
provided on the straight-line method at rates based on the estimated useful
lives of individual assets or classes of assets. Improvements to leased
properties or fixtures are amortized over their estimated useful lives or lease
period, whichever is shorter.
 
    Leased property meeting certain criteria is capitalized and the present
value of the related lease payments is recorded as a liability. Amortization of
capitalized leased assets is computed on the straight-line method over the term
of the lease.
 
    Normal repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. Expenditures which
materially increase values, change capacities or extend useful lives are
capitalized. Replacements are capitalized and the property, plant and equipment
accounts are relieved of the items being replaced. The related costs and
accumulated depreciation of disposed assets are eliminated and any gain or loss
on disposition is included in income.
 
    ENVIRONMENTAL COSTS
 
    Costs incurred to investigate and remediate contaminated sites are expensed.
 
    STORE OPENING COSTS
 
    Noncapital expenditures incurred in opening a new store are expensed in the
year the store is opened.
 
    ADVERTISING AND SALES PROMOTION COSTS
 
    Advertising and sales promotion costs are expensed as incurred.
 
                                       27
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
1.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (CONTINUED)
    INCOME TAXES
 
    The Company accounts for income taxes under the provisions of Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes" ("SFAS
109"). Under SFAS 109, deferred tax liabilities and assets are determined based
on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and
liabilities, using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the
differences are expected to reverse.
 
    NET INCOME PER SHARE
 
    Net income per share is based on the weighted average number of common
shares outstanding during the period.
 
    USE OF ESTIMATES
 
    The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principals requires management to make estimates and
assumptions for the reporting period and as of the financial statement date.
These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities, the disclosure of contingent liabilities and the reported amounts
of revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
 
    NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
 
    Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 121, "Accounting for the
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of"
(SFAS 121), was adopted as of January 1, 1996. SFAS 121 standardized the
accounting practices for the recognition and measurement of impairment losses on
certain long-lived assets. The adoption of SFAS 121 had no impact on the
Company's results of operations or financial position.
 
    RECLASSIFICATION
 
    Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current
year presentation.
 
                                       28
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
2.  MARKETABLE SECURITIES:
 
    Marketable securities are considered to be trading securities per SFAS 115
and are carried on the balance sheet at their market value.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               UNREALIZED
                                                                     COST      GAIN (LOSS)   MARKET VALUE
                                                                   ---------  -------------  ------------
                                                                               (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                                <C>        <C>            <C>
As of December 28, 1996:
  Mutual funds...................................................  $  10,997    $      35     $   11,032
  Fixed income securities........................................      7,707         (662)         7,045
  Equity securities..............................................      1,413          114          1,527
  Mortgage-backed government securities..........................      1,419            7          1,426
  Collateralized mortgage obligations............................        328           (2)           326
                                                                   ---------        -----    ------------
    Total........................................................  $  21,864    $    (508)    $   21,356
                                                                   ---------        -----    ------------
                                                                   ---------        -----    ------------
As of December 30, 1995:
  Mutual funds...................................................  $  10,291    $     216     $   10,507
  Fixed income securities........................................      6,749         (458)         6,291
  Equity securities..............................................      2,538         (126)         2,412
  Mortgage-backed government securities..........................        823           12            835
  Collateralized mortgage obligations............................        115                         115
                                                                   ---------        -----    ------------
    Total........................................................  $  20,516    $    (356)    $   20,160
                                                                   ---------        -----    ------------
                                                                   ---------        -----    ------------
</TABLE>
 
    The Company enters into various forward commitments, interest rate futures
and currency forwards in an effort to maximize its return on investments in
trading securities. At December 28, 1996, the Company has outstanding forward
commitments to purchase mortgage securities in early 1997 in the amount of
$2,012,000 which it intends to fulfill with the proceeds of matured or sold
investment securities. In addition, the Company holds interest rate futures
relating to five year German bonds due March 10, 1997 with an aggregate notional
amount of $499,000 and ten year Canadian bonds due March 31, 1997 with an
aggregate notional amount of $172,000. The Company also holds currency forwards
for 560,000 German marks which expire in early 1997 and are intended to hedge
currency risk on a German government bond which is held by the Company at
December 28, 1996. The aggregate fair value of these interest rate futures and
currency forwards is nominal at December 28, 1996 and approximates cost.
 
3.  ACCOUNTS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   DECEMBER 28, 1996  DECEMBER 30, 1995
                                                                   -----------------  -----------------
                                                                              (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                                <C>                <C>
Accounts receivable, trade.......................................      $   4,677          $   4,503
Notes receivable.................................................            592                656
Other accounts receivable........................................          2,070              4,936
                                                                          ------            -------
                                                                           7,339             10,095
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts and notes receivable.......           (710)              (711)
                                                                          ------            -------
                                                                       $   6,629          $   9,384
                                                                          ------            -------
                                                                          ------            -------
</TABLE>
 
                                       29
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
3.  ACCOUNTS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE: (CONTINUED)
    The provision for doubtful accounts and notes receivable in 1996, 1995, and
1994 was approximately $55,000, $94,000, and $348,000, respectively.
 
4.  INVENTORIES:
 
    Inventories valued by the LIFO method ($9,271,000 in 1996, $8,899,000 in
1995 and $9,461,000 in 1994) would have been $2,394,000, $2,282,000, and
$2,147,000 higher at December 28, 1996, December 30, 1995 and December 31, 1994,
respectively, if they had been stated at the lower of FIFO cost or market. The
LIFO effect on net income and income per share in 1996, 1995 and in 1994 was a
decrease of approximately $67,000 ($.06 per share), $81,000 ($.06 per share) and
$19,000 ($.02 per share), respectively.
 
5.  PROPERTY, PLANT, EQUIPMENT AND ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   DECEMBER 28, 1996  DECEMBER 30, 1995
                                                                   -----------------  -----------------
                                                                              (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                                <C>                <C>
Land.............................................................      $   8,775          $   8,273
Buildings and improvements.......................................         11,453              4,882
Store fixtures and office equipment..............................         16,837             11,450
Delivery equipment...............................................          1,794              1,584
Machinery and equipment..........................................            879                880
Leasehold improvements...........................................         21,973             20,880
Assets under capital leases......................................          3,058              3,933
Assets under construction........................................            773              5,974
                                                                         -------            -------
                                                                          65,542             57,856
Accumulated depreciation and amortization........................        (25,667)           (24,398)
                                                                         -------            -------
                                                                       $  39,875          $  33,458
                                                                         -------            -------
                                                                         -------            -------
</TABLE>
 
    As of December 28, 1996 approximately $8,000,000 of property, plant and
equipment (at cost) was fully depreciated.
 
    In 1995, the Company developed a new shopping center in Calabasas,
California on which a Gelson's Market was opened in January 1996. The cost of
the shopping center is included in assets under construction at December 30,
1995.
 
6.  OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   DECEMBER 28, 1996  DECEMBER 30, 1995
                                                                   -----------------  -----------------
                                                                              (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                                <C>                <C>
Compensated absences.............................................      $   2,830          $   2,612
Taxes (including taxes collected from others of $351 and $947,
 respectively)...................................................          2,991              3,245
Other............................................................          5,995              5,478
                                                                         -------            -------
                                                                       $  11,816          $  11,335
                                                                         -------            -------
                                                                         -------            -------
</TABLE>
 
                                       30
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
7.  LONG-TERM DEBT:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          CURRENT                      NON-CURRENT
                                               ------------------------------  ----------------------------
                                                DECEMBER 28,    DECEMBER 30,   DECEMBER 28,   DECEMBER 30,
                                                    1996            1995           1996           1995
                                               ---------------  -------------  -------------  -------------
                                                                      (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                            <C>              <C>            <C>            <C>
Notes and contracts payable..................     $     768       $     752      $   1,832      $   2,600
Obligations under capital leases.............           205             326          3,578          3,782
7% Subordinated income debentures due
  September 1, 2014..........................                                        1,253          1,313
                                                      -----          ------         ------         ------
                                                  $     973       $   1,078      $   6,663      $   7,695
                                                      -----          ------         ------         ------
                                                      -----          ------         ------         ------
</TABLE>
 
    At December 28, 1996, the approximate principal payments required on
long-term debt for each year are as follows (in thousands):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
  1997       1998       1999       2000       2001     SUBSEQUENT
---------  ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------  -----------
<S>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
$973...... $     961  $     807  $     838  $     323   $   3,734
</TABLE>
 
    The Company has a 15 month loan agreement for a credit facility with a bank
establishing a revolving line of credit in the amount of $9,000,000 with a
standby letter of credit subfacility in the amount of $5,000,000, and a
$10,000,000 non-revolving line of credit providing for term loans. Major
provisions of the agreement include interest on the revolving loan and on the
term loans at the bank's cost of funds rate plus .8% or at the LIBOR rate plus
 .8%, and certain minimum requirements as to the Company's equity, working
capital and debt-to-equity relationships. The Company also has a one year
revolving line of credit with another bank in the amount of $3,000,000 with
interest at the bank's reference rate. At the end of 1996 and 1995 there were no
amounts borrowed under either of the revolving lines of credit.
 
    Notes payable: In 1995, the Company borrowed $2,750,000 (at 6.2%) from its
$10,000,000 non-revolving line of credit to finance the purchase of supermarket
equipment. In 1993, the Company financed $1,021,000 (average interest rate 7.5%)
of supermarket equipment. All equipment financing borrowings are five year,
fully amortized notes. Only the obligations of the 1993 borrowings are
collateralized by the equipment. The aggregate balance of the equipment notes at
December 28, 1996 was $2,600,000.
 
    Debentures: The indenture relating to the 7% (6% prior to November 7, 1978)
subordinated income debentures ("7% Debentures"), due September 1, 2014,
provides for interest payable semiannually on March 1 and September 1 to the
extent that current annual net income (consolidated net income before income
taxes and interest accrued on the 7% Debentures) is sufficient therefor, or at
the discretion of the Company, out of available retained earnings. No accrued
interest was in arrears as of December 28, 1996.
 
    The aggregate fair market value of long term debt approximates its carrying
value.
 
8. CAPITAL STOCK:
 
    Class A Common Stock: The Company is authorized to issue 5,000,000 shares of
Class A common stock, par value $.25 per share. At December 28, 1996 and
December 30, 1995, shares issued were 1,106,053 and 1,130,937, respectively,
including 339,300 treasury shares at the end of each year. On September 16, 1994
the Company completed a self-tender offer by purchasing 285,172 shares of its
Class A common stock at $52 per share in cash. Another 13,440 shares were
purchased at various prices, ranging from $48 to $52 per share, and retired
during the fourth quarter of 1994. In the fourth quarter of 1995, the
 
                                       31
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
8. CAPITAL STOCK: (CONTINUED)
Company purchased 177,229 shares from two of its institutional holders for
$62.50 per share in cash. An additional 2,000 shares were purchased in the
fourth quarter of 1995 for $58.50 per share. In 1996, the Company purchased an
additional 25,884 shares at an average price of $62.29 per share. The Class A
common stock has one vote per share on all matters on which stockholders are
entitled to vote or consent.
 
    Class B Common Stock: The Company is authorized to issue 500,000 shares of
Class B common stock, par value $.25 per share. At December 28, 1996 and
December 30, 1995 there were 342,246 and 343,246 shares, respectively, issued
and outstanding. The Class B common stock has ten votes per share on virtually
all matters on which shareholders are entitled to vote or consent. Transfer of
Class B common stock is restricted to other Class B stockholders and certain
other classes of transferees. Class B common stock is convertible, at the option
of the holder into Class A common stock on a share-for-share basis. The Class B
common stock is also automatically converted into Class A common stock under
certain circumstances, including upon the transfer of such stock to a transferee
other than another Class B stockholder and certain other classes of transferees.
The number of shares of Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock
were 70 shares in 1994 and 1,000 shares in 1996. No shares were converted in
1995. Cash or property dividends on Class B common stock are restricted to an
amount equal to 90% of any dividend paid on Class A common stock.
 
9. RETIREMENT PLANS:
 
    The Company contributes to multi-employer union pension plans administered
by various trustees which may be deemed to be defined benefit plans.
Contributions to these plans are based upon negotiated wage contracts.
Information relating to accumulated benefits and fund assets as they may be
allocable to the participants at December 28, 1996 is not available. The
Company's total union pension expense for all plans for 1996, 1995 and 1994
amounted to $906,000, $891,000 and $1,208,000, respectively.
 
    The Company has a noncontributory, trusteed stock bonus plan which is
qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
All nonunion employees over 18 years of age who complete 1,000 hours of service
within the year ending on the anniversary date of employment are eligible to
become participating employees in the plan. Contributions to the plan for any
fiscal year, as determined by the Board of Directors, are discretionary, but in
no event will they exceed 15% of the annual aggregate salaries of those
employees eligible for participation in the plan. Contributions must be invested
in the Company's Class A common stock with excess cash being invested in certain
government backed securities. Contributions to the plan are allocated among
eligible participants in the proportions of their salaries to the salaries of
all participants. Contributions accrued for the plan in 1996, 1995 and 1994 were
$133,000, $130,000, and $328,000, respectively.
 
    The Arden Group, Inc. 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan (the "Company Savings
Plan") covers all non-union employees of the Company and its subsidiaries who
have attained the age of 18 and have completed at least one year of service with
any of such companies. The Company Savings Plan provides that, with certain
limitations, a participating employee may elect to contribute up to 15% of such
employee's annual compensation to the Company Savings Plan on a tax-deferred
basis, subject to a limitation that the annual elective contribution may not
exceed an annual indexed dollar limit determined pursuant to the Internal
Revenue Code ($9,500 in 1996). Annual matching contributions are made by the
Company each year for those participants whose annualized gross earnings for the
previous year were $45,000 or less, and such matching contribution was $8,000 in
1996, $9,000 in 1995 and $10,000 in 1994. An additional discretionary
 
                                       32
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
9. RETIREMENT PLANS: (CONTINUED)
 
amount of $263,000 was accrued in 1996 and contributed to the plan in early
1997. Similarly $317,000 was accrued in 1995 and contributed in early 1996 and
$130,000 was accrued in 1994 and contributed in early 1995.
 
10.  INCOME TAXES:
 
    Income (loss) before income taxes and the related income tax expense
(benefit) are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              1996       1995       1994
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                                    (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                                         <C>        <C>        <C>
Income (loss) before income tax:
  Continuing operations...................................................  $   6,601  $  11,772  $   8,122
  Discontinued operations.................................................       (761)
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
    Total.................................................................  $   5,840  $  11,772  $   8,122
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
Income tax expense (benefit):
  Continuing operations...................................................  $   2,622  $   4,661  $   3,273
  Discontinued operations.................................................       (305)
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
    Total.................................................................  $   2,317  $   4,661  $   3,273
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The composition of federal and state income tax expense (benefit) is as
follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              1996       1995       1994
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                                    (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                                         <C>        <C>        <C>
Current
  Federal.................................................................  $   1,222  $   3,242  $   3,167
  State...................................................................        517        945        923
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
    Total.................................................................      1,739      4,187      4,090
Deferred
  Federal.................................................................        553        324       (669)
  State...................................................................         25        150       (148)
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
    Total.................................................................        578        474       (817)
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
  Total income tax expense................................................  $   2,317  $   4,661  $   3,273
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                            ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
 
                                       33
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
10.  INCOME TAXES: (CONTINUED)
    The Company's deferred income taxes assets (liabilities) were attributable
to the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   DECEMBER 28, 1996  DECEMBER 30, 1995
                                                                   -----------------  -----------------
                                                                              (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                                <C>                <C>
Deferred tax assets
  Debt under capital leases......................................      $   1,653          $   1,796
  Book accruals not recognized for tax until paid................          1,076              1,165
  Unrealized loss on marketable securities.......................            224                154
  Excess of book over tax depreciation...........................            520                879
  State tax expense recognized in current period for books but in
    following year for tax.......................................            175                315
  Bad debt allowance not deductible for tax until year of
    write-off....................................................            307                306
  Other..........................................................            360                338
                                                                         -------            -------
  Deferred tax assets............................................      $   4,315          $   4,953
Deferred tax liabilities
    Deferred gain on debenture exchange..........................      $  (4,694)         $  (4,861)
    Deferred gain on sale of property............................           (253)
  Property leased under capital leases, net of accumulated
    depreciation.................................................         (1,147)            (1,276)
  Other..........................................................           (381)              (399)
                                                                         -------            -------
  Deferred tax liabilities.......................................         (6,475)            (6,536)
                                                                         -------            -------
  Deferred income taxes, net.....................................      $  (2,160)         $  (1,583)
                                                                         -------            -------
                                                                         -------            -------
</TABLE>
 
    Reconciliation of the statutory federal rate and effective rate is as
follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         1996                    1995                    1994
                                                ----------------------  ----------------------  ----------------------
                                                 AMOUNT       RATE       AMOUNT       RATE       AMOUNT       RATE
                                                ---------  -----------  ---------  -----------  ---------  -----------
                                                              (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PERCENTAGE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                             <C>        <C>          <C>        <C>          <C>        <C>
Federal tax at statutory rate.................  $   1,986       34.0%   $   4,020       34.2%   $   2,761       34.0%
State income taxes, net of federal tax
 benefits.....................................        354        6.0%         712        6.0%         512        6.3%
Federal dividend exclusion....................        (23)      (0.4%)        (71)      (0.6%)
                                                ---------        ---    ---------        ---    ---------        ---
                                                $   2,317       39.7%   $   4,661       39.6%   $   3,273       40.3%
                                                ---------        ---    ---------        ---    ---------        ---
                                                ---------        ---    ---------        ---    ---------        ---
</TABLE>
 
    The California Franchise Tax Board has rendered tax assessments against the
Company. The Company believes the assessments are without merit and has filed an
appeal. The Company believes that adequate reserves have been provided for all
years.
 
11.  LEASES:
 
    The principal kinds of property leased by the Company and its subsidiaries
are supermarket buildings, fixtures and delivery equipment. The most significant
obligations assumed under the lease terms, other than rental payments, are the
upkeep of the facilities, insurance and property taxes. Most supermarket
 
                                       34
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
11.  LEASES: (CONTINUED)
leases contain contingent rental provisions based on sales volume and have
renewal options. The exercise of renewal options is primarily dependent on the
level of business conducted at the location.
 
    All leases and subleases with an initial term greater than one year are
accounted for under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 13,
"Accounting for Leases". These leases are classified as either capital leases,
operating leases or subleases, as appropriate.
 
    Assets Under Capital Leases: Assets under capital leases are capitalized
using interest rates appropriate at the inception of each lease. Contingent
rentals associated with capital leases in 1996, 1995 and 1994 were $110,000,
$109,000 and $143,000, respectively, and accordingly have been charged to
expense as incurred. Following is an analysis of assets under capital leases:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         DECEMBER 28, 1996  DECEMBER 30, 1995
                                                         -----------------  -----------------
                                                                    (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                      <C>                <C>
Buildings..............................................      $   3,058          $   3,058
Equipment..............................................                               875
                                                               -------            -------
                                                                 3,058              3,933
Accumulated amortization...............................         (1,844)            (2,474)
                                                               -------            -------
                                                             $   1,214          $   1,459
                                                               -------            -------
                                                               -------            -------
</TABLE>
 
    Future minimum lease payments for the above assets under capital leases at
December 28, 1996 are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                      (IN
                                                                                  THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                                              <C>
1997...........................................................................    $     636
1998...........................................................................          638
1999...........................................................................          636
2000...........................................................................          638
2001...........................................................................          636
Remainder......................................................................        3,395
                                                                                      ------
Total minimum obligations......................................................    $   6,579
Executory costs................................................................          (51)
                                                                                      ------
Net minimum obligations........................................................        6,528
Interest.......................................................................       (2,745)
                                                                                      ------
Present value of net minimum obligations.......................................        3,783
Current portions                                                                        (205)
                                                                                      ------
Long-term obligations at December 28, 1996.....................................    $   3,578
                                                                                      ------
                                                                                      ------
</TABLE>
 
    Minimum capital lease obligations have not been reduced by related minimum
future sublease rentals of $2,861,000.
 
    Executory costs include such items as property taxes and insurance.
 
                                       35
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
11.  LEASES: (CONTINUED)
    Operating Leases and Subleases: Future minimum lease payments for all
noncancelable operating leases having a remaining term in excess of one year at
December 28, 1996 are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                   DEDUCT
                                                                                  SUBLEASE     NET RENTAL
                                                                   COMMITMENTS     RENTALS     COMMITMENTS
                                                                  -------------  -----------  -------------
                                                                               (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                               <C>            <C>          <C>
1997............................................................    $   3,349     $     449     $   2,900
1998............................................................        3,399           456         2,943
1999............................................................        3,404           468         2,936
2000............................................................        3,269           465         2,804
2001............................................................        3,122           382         2,740
Remainder.......................................................       30,646         4,178        26,468
                                                                  -------------  -----------  -------------
                                                                    $  47,189     $   6,398     $  40,791
                                                                  -------------  -----------  -------------
                                                                  -------------  -----------  -------------
</TABLE>
 
    Rent expense under operating leases is as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                             1996       1995       1994
                                                                           ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                                   (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                                        <C>        <C>        <C>
Minimum rent.............................................................  $   4,300  $   4,484  $   5,375
Contingent rent..........................................................        972      1,103      1,063
                                                                           ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                               5,272      5,587      6,438
Sublease rentals.........................................................       (798)    (1,450)    (1,398)
                                                                           ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                           $   4,474  $   4,137  $   5,040
                                                                           ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                           ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
 
12. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:
 
    At December 28, 1996, the Company held two notes receivable with balances
totaling $369,000 from an officer/director of the Company. These notes arose
from transactions in 1979 and 1980 whereby the Company loaned the
officer/director money to purchase an aggregate of 200,000 shares of the
Company's Class A common stock at the then fair market value. These notes, which
bear interest at the rate of 6% per annum, mature on December 31, 2000 with
equal payments of principal due annually prior thereto. If the officer's
employment is terminated prior to January 1, 2001, the unpaid portion of the two
notes would be forgiven. A third loan for $1,000,000 made to the
officer/director in 1992 and related to his exercise in 1991 of 100,000 shares
of the Company's Class A common stock, which were granted to him under a stock
option, was repaid in 1994. The loans are collateralized by 180,000 shares of
Class B common stock. The receivable is shown on the balance sheets as a
reduction in equity.
 
                                       36
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES:
 
    The Company has an employment agreement with a key executive officer which
expires on January 1, 2001. In addition to a base salary, the agreement provides
for a bonus based on pre-tax earnings. No maximum compensation limit exists. The
compensation expensed in 1996, 1995 and 1994 was $673,000, $910,000 and
$730,000, respectively.
 
    The Company is contingently liable as a guarantor of certain leases which it
has either assigned or subleased. Any liability arising as a result of these
guarantees would have no significant effect on either the Company's results of
operations or consolidated financial position of the Company.
 
    The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to a myriad of environmental
laws and regulations regarding air, water and land use, and the use, storage and
disposal of hazardous materials. The Company believes it substantially complies,
and has in the past substantially complied, with federal, state, and local
environmental laws and regulations. However, a claim has been made against the
Company in connection with real property previously leased by a subsidiary of
the Company by the current owner of such property. The Company has been asked to
pay for a portion of the cost of remediation of hazardous substances allegedly
existing on such properties. The Company cannot at this time estimate the
expense it ultimately may incur in connection with the claim, however, it
believes such expense will not be of a material amount. Although unexpected
violations may occur in the future and although the Company cannot predict the
effect of future laws or regulations on the Company's operations, expenditures
for continued compliance with current laws are not expected to have a material
impact on its capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position.
 
    The Company or its subsidiaries are defendants in a number of cases
currently in litigation, being vigorously defended, in which the complainants
pray for monetary damages. As of the date hereof, no estimate of potential
liability, if any, is possible. Based upon current information, management,
after consultation with legal counsel defending the Company's interests in the
cases, believes the ultimate disposition thereof will have no material effect
upon either the Company's results of operations or the consolidated financial
position.
 
14. ARBITRATION PROCEEDINGS:
 
    Pursuant to an Asset Purchase Agreement dated September 1, 1993 (the "Asset
Purchase Agreement"), by and among Telautograph, the Company and Danka
Industries, Inc. (the "Purchaser") and Danka Business Systems PLC ("Danka"), on
September 17, 1993 AMG Holdings sold its communication equipment business and
substantially all the operating assets and certain liabilities of such business
to the Purchaser, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of Danka, for a cash
purchase price of approximately $45,780,000 (which includes $1,000,000 received
for a covenant not-to-compete), subject to certain post-closing adjustments. In
fiscal 1993, AMG Holdings booked a gain related to the sale of approximately
$620,000, net of income taxes of $424,000.
 
    The purchase price and the gain are subject to adjustment after resolution
of disputes which have arisen between AMG Holdings and Purchaser concerning the
assets and liabilities transferred to the Purchaser. As a result of an
arbitration hearing, in April 1994 the Company was awarded $1,750,000 for parts
inventory which was purchased by Purchaser as part of the sale of the Company's
communication equipment business in 1993. The valuation of such inventory on the
balance sheet at the date of sale had been in dispute. No amount with respect to
this inventory had been included in the 1993 gain from the sale
 
                                       37
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
14. ARBITRATION PROCEEDINGS: (CONTINUED)
of such business. Additionally, there is a second arbitration with regard to
certain items on the closing balance sheet of the communication equipment
business which are being disputed. The Company believes it is owed approximately
$2,200,000 relating to the sale. The Purchaser claims there should be a
reduction in the purchase price of approximately $11,000,000. The recovery of
each party's related legal costs will also be determined in a later arbitration.
No income or expenses related to the first arbitration award and no expenses
related to the second arbitration have been recognized in the 1994 or 1995
statements of operations of the Company. In 1996, arbitration costs which
exceeded the first arbitration award of $1,750,000, in the amount of $456,000,
net of income tax benefits of $305,000, were expensed as discontinued
operations.
 
    While the Company denies the Purchaser's claims, the ultimate outcome cannot
be presently determined. The final outcome may or may not have a material impact
on the statement of operations in the year in which a decision is rendered,
however, the Company does not believe adjustments resulting from this
arbitration, if any, will have a material positive or adverse impact on the
Company's financial position. It is expected that a final arbitration decision
will be rendered in the first or second quarter of 1997 and any award would be
reflected in the Company's financial statements as an adjustment to the purchase
price of the communication equipment business sold in 1993.
 
                                       38
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
 
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                 SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
 
                     (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                DISCONTINUED
                                        CONTINUING OPERATIONS                    OPERATIONS
                             --------------------------------------------  ----------------------
                                          GROSS               INCOME PER               LOSS PER       NET      NET INCOME
QUARTER                        SALES     PROFIT     INCOME       SHARE       LOSS        SHARE      INCOME      PER SHARE
---------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  -----------  ---------  -----------  ---------  -------------
<S>                          <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>          <C>        <C>          <C>        <C>
1994
  First....................  $  63,151  $  23,926  $     547   $     .34                           $     547    $     .34
  Second...................     61,625     23,790      1,667        1.03                               1,667         1.03
  Third....................     59,702     23,374      1,254         .81                               1,254          .81
  Fourth...................     61,721     23,931      1,381        1.04                               1,381         1.04
 
1995
  First....................  $  59,941  $  23,209  $   1,425   $    1.08                           $   1,425    $    1.08
  Second...................     60,317     23,742      2,246        1.71                               2,246         1.71
  Third....................     60,968     23,787      1,801        1.37                               1,801         1.37
  Fourth...................     61,736     24,315      1,639        1.31                               1,639         1.31
 
1996
  First....................  $  60,616  $  23,646  $     134   $     .12                           $     134    $     .12
  Second...................     62,864     24,649        895         .81                                 895          .81
  Third....................     62,891     24,855      1,485        1.34   $    (311)  $    (.28)      1,174         1.06
  Fourth...................     65,648     26,017      1,465        1.32        (145)       (.13)      1,320         1.19
</TABLE>
 
    Earnings per share is calculated on the weighted average outstanding shares
in the quarter. The outstanding shares were significantly reduced in the third
quarter of 1994 by the shares purchased by the Company pursuant to its
self-tender offer and in the fourth quarter of 1995 by the shares purchased from
two of its institutional holders.
 
    The third quarter 1996 results have been restated from the Form 10-Q
previously filed to reclassify $520 in arbitration related expenses from
continuing operations to discontinued operations, in conformity with the fourth
quarter 1996 presentation.
 
                                       39
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
 
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
         SCHEDULE VIII--VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES
 
                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         BALANCE AT         ADDITIONS CHARGED TO
                                                        BEGINNING OF   ------------------------------                  BALANCE AT
DESCRIPTION                                                 YEAR         EXPENSES     OTHER ACCOUNTS    DEDUCTIONS     END OF YEAR
------------------------------------------------------  -------------  -------------  ---------------  -------------  -------------
<S>                                                     <C>            <C>            <C>              <C>            <C>
Fiscal Year Ended December 28, 1996:
  Allowance for doubtful notes and accounts
    receivable(1).....................................    $     711      $      55                       $      56(2)   $     710
Fiscal Year Ended December 30, 1995:
  Allowance for doubtful notes and accounts
    receivable(1).....................................    $     708      $      94                       $      91(2)   $     711
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1994:
  Allowance for doubtful notes and accounts
    receivable(1).....................................    $     639      $     348                       $     138(2)   $     708
                                                                                                               141(3)
</TABLE>
 
------------------------
 
(1) These reserves are deducted from the related items in the balance sheet.
 
(2) Specific items charged to qualifying accounts and reserves.
 
(3) Transferred to buyer upon sale of subsidiary.
 
                                       40
<PAGE>
                               ARDEN GROUP, INC.
 
                          AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY
 
                               INDEX TO EXHIBITS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   EXHIBIT
-----------
<S>          <C>
       2.1   Asset Purchase Agreement dated September 1, 1993 by and among Telautograph Corporation, Arden Group,
               Inc., Danka Industries, Inc. and Danka Business Systems PLC filed as Exhibit 2.1 to the Form 8-K of
               Arden Group, Inc. dated September 30, 1993 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
       3.1   Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Arden Group, Inc. dated November 7, 1988 filed as Exhibit 3.1 to
               the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Arden Group, Inc. for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1988 and
               incorporated herein by reference.
 
       3.2   Amended and Restated By-Laws of Arden Group, Inc. (as amended and restated as of June 25, 1991) filed as
               Exhibit 3.2 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Arden Group, Inc. for the fiscal year ended January 2,
               1993 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
       4.1   Indenture dated as of September 1, 1964 between Arden Farms Co. and Security First National Bank, as
               Trustee, pertaining to 6% Subordinated Income Debentures, due September 1, 2014, filed as Exhibit 4.2
               to Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Arden Group, Inc. and Arden-Mayfair, Inc., Registration No.
               2-58687, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
     4.1.1   First Supplemental Indenture dated as of November 7, 1978, to Indenture which is Exhibit 4.1, filed as
               Exhibit 7 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Arden Group, Inc. for the fiscal year ended December 30,
               1978 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
     4.1.2   Second Supplemental Indenture dated as of November 7, 1978, to Indenture which is Exhibit 4.1, filed as
               Exhibit 8 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Arden Group, Inc. for the fiscal year ended December 30,
               1978 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
     4.1.3   Third Supplemental Indenture dated April 24, 1981, to Indenture which is Exhibit 4.1, filed as Exhibit
               4.2.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Arden Group, Inc. for the quarter ended April 4, 1981 and
               incorporated herein by reference.
 
       4.2   Loan Agreement dated December 23, 1993, as amended by a Second Amendment thereto dated December 20, 1995,
               a Third Amendment thereto dated December 18, 1996 and a Fourth Amendment thereto dated January 13,
               1997, between Arden Group, Inc. and Union Bank.
 
     10.1*   Employment Agreement dated May 13, 1988 by and among Arden Group, Inc., Arden-Mayfair, Inc., Telautograph
               Corporation and Gelson's Markets and Bernard Briskin, filed as Exhibit 10 to the Quarterly Report on
               Form 10-Q of Arden Group, Inc. for the quarter ended July 2, 1988 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
     10.2*   Amendment to Employment Agreement dated April 27, 1994 by and between Arden Group, Inc., Arden-Mayfair,
               Inc., AMG Holdings, Inc. and Gelson's Markets and Bernard Briskin, filed as Exhibit 10.7 to the
               Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Arden Group, Inc. for the quarter ended April 2, 1994 and incorporated
               herein by reference.
 
 10.3*       Extension Agreement dated January 4, 1981 regarding promissory notes held by the Registrant between Arden
               Group, Inc. and Bernard Briskin, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Arden
               Group, Inc. for the quarter ended July 4, 1981 and incorporated herein by reference.
</TABLE>
 
                                       41
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   EXHIBIT
-----------
     10.4*   Extension Agreement dated January 1, 1984 regarding promissory notes held by the Registrant between Arden
               Group, Inc. and Bernard Briskin filed as Exhibit 19.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Arden
               Group, Inc. for the quarter ended September 29, 1984 and incorporated herein by reference.
<S>          <C>
 
     10.5*   Extension Agreement dated May 13, 1988 regarding promissory notes held by the Registrant between Arden
               Group, Inc. and Bernard Briskin filed as Exhibit 10.11 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Arden
               Group, Inc. for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1988 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
 10.6*       Modification and Fourth Extension Agreement dated as of January 1, 1994 regarding promissory notes held
               by the Registrant between Arden Group, Inc. and Bernard Briskin, filed as Exhibit 10.8 to the Quarterly
               Report on Form 10-Q of Arden Group, Inc. for the quarter ended April 2, 1994 and incorporated herein by
               reference.
 
 10.7        Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Registrant and the Directors and certain officers, filed as
               Exhibit 10.13 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Arden Group, Inc. for the year ended December 29,
               1990 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
 10.8*       Amended Loan and Stock Pledge Agreement dated November 4, 1993 regarding promissory notes held by the
               Registrant between Arden Group, Inc. and Bernard Briskin, filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the Annual Report on
               Form 10-K of Arden Group, Inc. for the year ended January 1, 1994 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
 21.         Subsidiaries of Registrant.
 
 27.         Financial Data Schedules.
</TABLE>
 
------------------------
 
* Indicates management contracts or compensatory plans or arrangements required
  to be filed as an exhibit to this report.
 
                                       42