EDGAR 10-K Filing

Company CIK: 809248
Filing Year: 2024
Filename: 809248_10-K_2024_0000809248-24-000048.json

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ITEM 1. BUSINESS
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Overview
Our Company
We are one of the largest restaurant companies in the United States and have been operating restaurants for more than 60 years. We operate two distinct quick service restaurant brands, Burger King and Popeyes, with 1,082 restaurants located in 23 Northeastern, Midwestern, Southcentral and Southeastern states as of December 31, 2023.
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, our restaurants generated total revenues of $1.9 billion and our average annual restaurant sales for all restaurants was approximately $1.7 million per restaurant. We served an
average of approximately 460,000 guests per day at our restaurants. In fiscal 2023, comparable restaurant sales at our Burger King restaurants increased 9.3% and at our Popeyes restaurants increased 10.1%.
Our Burger King Restaurants. We are the largest Burger King franchisee in the United States, based on number of restaurants, and have operated Burger King restaurants since 1976. Burger King restaurants are quick service sandwich restaurants that feature the popular flame-grilled Whopper® sandwich, as well as a variety of hamburgers, chicken and other specialty sandwiches, wraps, french fries, breakfast items, snacks, soft drinks and more. We believe that the competitive attributes of Burger King restaurants include significant brand recognition, convenience of location, quality, speed of service and value.
As of December 31, 2023, we operated 1,022 Burger King restaurants located in restaurants located in 23 Northeastern, Midwestern, Southcentral and Southeastern states. For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, the average weekly sales at our Burger King restaurants was $33,812 per restaurant.
We operate our Burger King restaurants under franchise agreements with BKC. Our Burger King restaurants are typically open seven days per week and generally have operating hours ranging from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm, with later hours in certain markets or on weekends.
Our existing Burger King restaurants consist of one of several building types with various seating capacities. Our typical freestanding restaurant is approximately 2,800 to 3,300 square feet with seating capacity for 40 to 60 guests, drive-thru service windows and adjacent parking areas. Almost all of our restaurants are freestanding.
Our Popeyes Restaurants. We are the ninth largest Popeyes franchisee in the United States based on number of restaurants. Popeyes restaurants are quick service chicken restaurants that feature a Louisiana-inspired home cooking styled menu including fried chicken, chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders and wings, fried shrimp and other seafood, red beans and rice and other regional offerings.
As of December 31, 2023, we operated 60 Popeyes restaurants in six Southeastern states. For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, the average weekly sales at our Popeyes restaurants was $29,337 per restaurant.
We operate our Popeyes restaurants under franchise agreements with PLK. Our Popeyes restaurants are typically open seven days per week with operating hours of 10:00 am to 10:00 pm with later hours on weekends. Our Popeyes restaurants are generally freestanding locations with approximately 2,000 to 2,400 square feet with seating capacity for 35 to 45 guests and a drive-thru.
Merger Agreement
On January 16, 2024, we entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) with RBI, and BK Cheshire Corp, a Delaware corporation and subsidiary of RBI. (“Merger Sub”, and together with RBI, the “Buyer Parties”), providing for the merger of Merger Sub with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as the surviving corporation (the “Merger”).
A special transaction committee (the “Special Committee”) of independent and disinterested members of our Board of Directors (the “Board” or the “Board of Directors”) unanimously adopted resolutions recommending that our Board approve and adopt the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby and agreeing to recommend that the Unaffiliated Company Stockholders (as defined in the Merger Agreement) adopt the Merger Agreement. Thereafter, our Board unanimously approved the Merger Agreement and agreed to recommend that our stockholders adopt the Merger Agreement.
At the effective time of the Merger (the “Effective Time”):
•each share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share of the Company (the “Carrols Common Stock”) outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than shares of Carrols Common Stock that are (A)(1) held by us and our Subsidiaries; (2) owned by RBI or Merger Sub; or (3) owned by any direct or indirect Subsidiary of RBI or Merger Sub as of immediately prior to the Effective Time (the “Owned Carrols Shares”), or (B) issued and outstanding as of immediately prior to the Effective Time and held by our stockholders who have neither voted in favor of the Merger nor consented thereto in writing and who have properly and validly exercised their statutory rights of appraisal in respect of such shares of Carrols Common Stock in accordance with Section 262 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware) will be cancelled and extinguished and automatically converted into the right to receive cash in an amount equal to $9.55, without interest thereon;
•each Owned Carrols Share outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time will remain issued and outstanding as a share of common stock of the surviving corporation; and
•each share of Company's Series D Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Series D Preferred Stock”) outstanding as of immediately prior to the Effective Time will remain issued and outstanding as a share of Series D Preferred Stock of the surviving corporation, on the terms set forth in the Certificate of Designation for the Series D Convertible Preferred Stock, dated December 20, 2022 (the “Series D Certificate of Designation”).
If the Merger is consummated, our Common Stock will be delisted from The NASDAQ Global Market and deregistered under the Exchange Act, as promptly as practicable following the Effective Time.
The Merger Agreement included a 30-day “go shop” period that allowed us to affirmatively solicit alternative proposals from interested parties.
Consummation of the Merger is subject to certain conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, including, but not limited to, the: (A) affirmative vote of the holders of (i) a majority of all of the outstanding shares of our capital stock to adopt the Merger Agreement and (ii) a majority of all of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock held by the Unaffiliated Company Stockholders to adopt the Merger Agreement; (B) expiration or termination of any waiting periods (and any extensions thereof) applicable to the consummation of the Merger under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended (the “HSR Act”); (C) absence of any law or order in the United States restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the Merger; and (D) absence of a Company Material Adverse Effect (as defined in the Merger Agreement).
The Merger Agreement contains certain termination rights for us, on the one hand, and the Buyer Parties, on the other hand. Upon termination of the Merger Agreement under specified circumstances, we will be required to pay RBI a termination fee of $19,000,000 (or, if termination occurs in certain circumstances prior to the No-Shop Period Start Date (as defined in the Merger Agreement), $9,500,000). In addition to the foregoing termination rights, and subject to certain limitations, we or RBI may terminate the Merger Agreement if the Merger is not consummated by November 30, 2024.
Each of RBI, Merger Sub and us made customary representations and warranties in the Merger Agreement and agreed to customary covenants, including, among others, a covenant on the part of us regarding the operation of our business and our Subsidiaries prior to the consummation of the Merger. The Merger Agreement also provides that we, on the one hand, or the Buyer Parties, on the other hand, may specifically enforce the obligations under the Merger Agreement, including the obligation to consummate the Merger if the conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement are satisfied.
Our Competitive Strengths
We believe we have the following competitive strengths:
Two Distinct Brands with Global Recognition, Innovative Marketing and New Product Development. As a franchisee of the Burger King and Popeyes brands, we benefit from, and rely on, RBI's extensive marketing, advertising and product development capabilities to drive sales and generate increased restaurant traffic. RBI has historically launched innovative and creative multimedia advertising campaigns and products that highlight the relevance of the Burger King and Popeyes brands. RBI has also supported the launch of digital ordering and
delivery options for our guests. RBI has negotiated distribution and operational agreements for BKC and PLK with major delivery platform providers, such as DoorDash, UberEats and GrubHub, and developed its own white label mobile apps for each brand. Digital sales through these distribution channels in 2023 were 10.0% of total restaurant sales. In 2021, RBI introduced the Royal Perks loyalty program for Burger King and the Popeyes Rewards loyalty program for Popeyes to entice guests to visit more often as well as receive personalized offers on their respective mobile apps. In 2022, BKC announced their new brand positioning strategy, called "You Rule.", intended to establish an emotional connection with consumers and drive everyday relevance of the Burger King brand in consumers' lives. You Rule is intended to be the new way to say "Have it Your Way," where our customers are the real royalty.
We are the largest Burger King franchisee in the United States, based on number of restaurants operating as of December 31, 2023, approximately 14% of all Burger King restaurants in the United States. We believe that we are well positioned to leverage the scale and marketing of one of the most recognized brands in the restaurant industry. We believe that our large number of restaurants increases our ability to take advantage of our size and scale to effectively manage the image and awareness of the Burger King brand in certain markets through promotional advertising, remodeling initiatives and our operational expertise. Further, we also believe that the geographic footprint of our restaurants provides our business with stability while also providing opportunities for growth within existing markets.
Over the years, BKC has introduced promotional campaigns that leverage both value and premium menu offerings and has provided a platform for new premium sandwich offerings. We believe these marketing campaigns continue to positively impact the brand today as BKC focuses on offering a value menu and premium sandwich promotional mix and remains committed to new product launches, such as the Royal Crispy Chicken wrap offering added in 2023. In 2023, the value and frequency of promotions was adjusted to drive improved economics for our restaurants and contributed to our increased sales and profitability. For the Popeyes brand, the successful launch of the Classic Chicken Sandwich in 2019 and wings in 2023, as well as a number of value-oriented offerings over the past several years, have continued to drive the brand's appeal to a broader consumer base, which we expect will continue to enhance sales and restaurant traffic.
Operational Expertise. We have been operating Burger King restaurants since 1976 and have developed sophisticated information and operating systems that enable us to measure and monitor key metrics for operational performance, food quality, sales and profitability that may not be available to other restaurant operators. We believe that our focus on leveraging our operational expertise, infrastructure and systems helps us optimize the performance of our current restaurants and restaurants that we may acquire or open in the future. We also believe that our size and history with the Burger King brand and quick service restaurant operations enables us to effectively track operating metrics and leverage best practices across our organization. It is our belief that our experienced management team, operating culture, effective operating systems and infrastructure enable us to operate more efficiently than many other quick service restaurant operators. Finally, we believe that we will be able to leverage our expertise in quick service restaurant operations to improve the performance of our 60 Popeyes restaurants.
Resilient Business Model and Financial Strength of our Business. We believe that the quality and sophistication of our restaurant operations have helped drive our strong restaurant-level performance in 2023. We also believe that our size, seasoned management team, extensive operating infrastructure, experience and proven operating disciplines differentiate us from many competing quick service restaurant operators. We believe this was demonstrated as we navigated the challenges brought on with the COVID-19 pandemic, including labor shortages and increased commodity costs. We believe this demonstrates the strength and resiliency of our business model and our ability to respond quickly to unprecedented business disruption. It is also our belief that our strong restaurant-level operations coupled with our disciplined approach to financial management will allow us to maintain restaurant profitability under a wide variety of economic environments.
Over the past four years, we believe we have demonstrated our commitment to maintaining ample liquidity, managing leverage, generating free cash flow, and applying a disciplined approach to capital expenditures and restaurant development. We renegotiated our area development agreement with BKC in 2021 and terminated our development agreement with PLK that year. In 2023, we negotiated a restaurant remodel plan with BKC that provides for financial contributions from BKC towards such remodels as well as a commitment from us to complete 64 remodels over the course of 2023 and 2024. We believe these 64 remodels offer attractive expected returns on our investments after considering the contributions from our franchisor.
We believe we have also demonstrated our ability to prudently manage our capital structure and financial leverage, including through a variety of challenging economic circumstances. It is our belief that our cash flow from operations, cash balances and the availability of revolving credit borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities (as defined below) are sufficient to fund our ongoing operations and capital expenditure plans.
Strategic Relationship with RBI and BKC. We have been a franchisee of Burger King restaurants for over 46 years and operate approximately 14% of the total Burger King restaurants in the United States. Since 2012, two of BKC's or RBI's senior executives have served on the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board"). Currently, Matthew Dunnigan, Chief Financial Officer of RBI, the indirect parent company of BKC, and Tom Curtis, President of BKC, Americas, serve on our Board. BKC holds, through certain of its affiliated entities, a preferred stock equity interest in Carrols Restaurant Group that is convertible into approximately 14.7% of the outstanding shares of our common stock (after giving effect to the conversion of such preferred stock and excluding shares held in treasury). We believe we have a well-established relationship with RBI and BKC and that RBI's equity interest in our Company and its representation on our Board of Directors will help reinforce the alignment of our common interests over the long term.
Experienced Management Team with a Proven Track Record. We believe that our senior management team's extensive experience in the restaurant industry and our long and successful history of developing, acquiring, integrating and operating quick-service restaurants provide us with a competitive advantage over other restaurant franchisees.
Our restaurant operations are overseen by our Chief Restaurant Officer, Joseph Hoffman, who has worked in Burger King restaurants for over 30 years. As of December 31, 2023, operations for our Burger King restaurants are overseen by our four Senior Division Directors and 12 Region Directors who collectively had an average of 20 years of Burger King restaurant experience. We also have 146 district managers who support the Regional Directors in the management of our Burger King restaurants and had an average tenure of over 18 years in the Burger King system as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2023, operations for our Popeyes restaurants are overseen by our Senior Division Director, who has worked in the quick service restaurant industry for over 30 years and two Regional Directors who collectively had an average of over 25 years of restaurant experience. We also have nine district managers who support the Regional Directors in the management of our Popeyes restaurants and had an average tenure of over nine years in the Popeyes restaurant system as of December 31, 2023. Our operations management is further supported by our infrastructure of financial, information systems, real estate, human resources and legal professionals.
Our Business Strategies
Our primary business strategies are as follows:
Increase Restaurant Sales and Improve Guest Traffic. RBI has identified and implemented a number of strategies to increase brand awareness, enhance the guest experience, improve overall operations, invest in digital and technology and drive sales. These strategies are central to our strategic objectives to deliver profitable growth.
•"Reclaim the Flame." BKC announced its "Reclaim the Flame" plan in September 2022 which includes an investment by BKC of $400 million over two years to accelerate sales growth and drive franchisee profitability. The investment includes $150 million in advertising and digital investments ("Fuel the Flame") and $250 million for restaurant technology, kitchen equipment, building enhancements and high-quality remodels and relocations ("Royal Reset").
◦"Fuel the Flame." BKC agreed to invest $120 million in its U.S. advertising fund over a two-year period to grow traffic, accelerate sales growth and improve the guest experience. The BKC advertising investment is expected to be an annual increase of approximately 30% to the brand's media purchasing. Following BKC's increased investment in 2023 and 2024, participating franchisees, including Carrols, have agreed to increase their advertising fund contributions by 50 basis points through 2026 if a profitability threshold for the Burger King system is met for the full fiscal year 2024, and further through 2028 if a secondary profitability threshold is met for the full fiscal year 2026, which would continue the increased level of advertising spend for the brand. BKC will also invest $30 million through 2024 to improve the Burger King app guest experience, including through integrated payment processing, enhancing the Royal Perks loyalty program,
digital personalized offers, and improving the overall convenience of delivery and pick up options. We believe these investments and this elevated advertising spend have benefited and will continue to benefit our sales and guest traffic in our restaurants.
◦"Royal Reset." This $250 million investment by our franchisor will work in combination with the ongoing restaurant maintenance spending and remodeling activity of its franchisees to increase restaurant technology deployment to the Burger King system and accelerate the modernization of the Burger King restaurant portfolio. We took full advantage of the restaurant refresh program in 2023, receiving approximately $8.4 million of technology equipment in our Burger King restaurants and expect to receive an additional $3.9 million of technology equipment in 2024, including self-service ordering kiosks. As of December 31, 2023, 66 Burger King restaurants have installed kiosks, which we expect will drive sales from a higher average check and enhance the guest experience. BKC's "Royal Reset" investment also includes $200 million in system-wide contributions and cash advances for Burger King restaurant remodel projects over the next two years. In 2023, we entered into an agreement with BKC to remodel 64 restaurants in total between 2023 and 2024 in connection with this program. This funding will allow us to complete more remodel projects within our existing capital allocation strategy than we otherwise would have.
•Advertising and Promotion. We believe that we will benefit from BKC's advertising support of its menu items, product innovation and re-imaging initiatives. In 2022, BKC announced their new brand positioning strategy, called "You Rule.", intended to establish an emotional connection with consumers and drive everyday relevance of the Burger King brand in consumers' lives. You Rule is intended to be the new way to say "Have it Your Way," where our customers are the real royalty. BKC continues to prioritize a data driven marketing process which has focused on driving restaurant sales and traffic while targeting a broad consumer base with inclusive messaging. This strategy uses a multi-channel advertising plan inclusive of traditional media, such as broadcast television, and digital, such as social media.
•Operations. We believe that maintaining high levels of restaurant operations and continued enhancements to the guest experience are key components to increasing the profitability of our restaurants. We have operational action plans in place to continue to maintain guest satisfaction scores and hours of operations, both of which we believe will increase restaurant sales. We are actively involved in and believe we will benefit from RBI's ongoing initiatives to monitor operational performance in order to maintain the highest levels of guest experience, food quality, simplified restaurant-level execution, and team member training and engagement.
•Products. The strength of the BKC menu has been built on a distinct flame-grilled cooking platform to make better tasting hamburgers. We believe that BKC intends to continue to optimize the menu by focusing on core products, such as the flagship Whopper sandwich, while maintaining a balance between value promotions and premium limited time offerings to drive sales and traffic. With respect to PLK, the launch of the Classic Chicken Sandwich has driven product innovation to continue the brand's appeal to a broader consumer base, which we expect will continue to enhance sales and restaurant traffic.
•Image. We believe that re-imaged restaurants increase curb appeal and result in increased restaurant sales. BKC's current restaurant image features a fresh, sleek, eye-catching design which incorporates easy-to-navigate digital menu boards in the dining room and streamlined merchandising at the drive-thru. We believe that restaurant remodeling has improved our guest experience and contributed to incremental sales. We also believe the guest experience will be further enhanced from upgrades to BKC's current restaurant image which include a double drive-thru (where applicable), modifications to the exterior image and the deployment of restaurant technology in connection with Burger Kings "Royal Reset". We expect the 64 remodels we have committed to completing over the course of 2023 and 2024 will be impactful upgrades to the image of those restaurants.
•Digital. In 2020, RBI implemented digital order modes and delivery services with major delivery providers as well as through each brands' own mobile apps. By the end of 2022, all of our Burger King and Popeyes restaurants with delivery provider access were providing fully integrated delivery services, based on geographic availability of delivery services. Digital (including delivery and mobile sales) accounted for approximately 10.0% of total restaurant sales in 2023. In 2021, RBI introduced the Royal Perks loyalty program for Burger King and the Popeyes Rewards loyalty program for Popeyes, both designed to entice
guests to visit more often as well as to provide personalized offers on the brands' respective mobile apps. We believe these new platforms support RBI's strategy to appeal to a broader consumer base and to increase restaurant sales and expect that their "Fuel the Flame" investment will drive further penetration into digital markets.
•Restaurant Technology. We completed installation of outdoor digital menu boards at all Burger King and Popeyes restaurants in 2022. The digital menu boards integrate with our POS system and utilize artificial intelligence to help optimize the guest experience. In 2023, as part of the "Royal Reset" program with BKC, we began an initiative to install kiosks into many of our BK restaurants and as of December 31, 2023, we had 66 Burger King restaurants with kiosks installed. We expect that having kiosks in our Burger King restaurants will increase our average check and improve the overall guest experience.
Maintain and Improve Profitability of Restaurants. In 2021 and 2022, overall U.S. inflation rates escalated to levels the U.S economy had not recently experienced. For our business specifically, we were heavily impacted by commodity and labor inflation beginning in second quarter 2021 and extending into 2022. In 2023, we saw commodity and labor inflation pressures abate from their peaks and we also saw improvements in the availability of labor. Commodity inflation for our Burger King restaurants was 8.3%, 15.3% and 2.5% in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively, and for our Popeyes restaurants was 4.7%, 17.6% and 6.1% in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Average hourly rate inflation at all of our restaurants was 12.0%, 9.1% and 4.2% in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. These factors drove a $106.3 million, or 75.0%, increase in Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA in 2023 as compared to 2022.
•Pricing. In response to prior years elevated input costs, we had developed our pricing practices and strategy, resulting in effective selling price increases at our Burger King restaurants of 9.4% for all of 2022 and 7.5% for all of 2023. This also resulted in effective selling price increases at our Popeyes restaurant of 5.7% and 12.1% for all of 2022 and 2023, respectively. The effective selling price increase is impacted for twelve months after the pricing action is instituted.
•Promotions. We have worked closely with BKC on multi-faceted restaurant profitability initiatives, including their promotional pricing practices. Promotional sales discounts at all of our restaurants in 2023 decreased to 11.2% of restaurant sales from 15.8% in 2022 and 19.8% in 2021. BKC has identified improving restaurant-level profitability as a focus closely tied to their "Reclaim the Flame" investments. We believe this alignment in interests with our franchisor will further augment our actions to maintain improved restaurant margins after this period of input cost inflation.
•Operations. We believe that maintaining high-performing restaurant operations and continuing to enhance the guest experience are key components to increasing the profitability of our restaurants. In 2023, we expanded our operating hours by 3.6% and improved our guest satisfaction scores by approximately 30%, which we believe have contributed to higher restaurant sales. Further, we have ongoing initiatives to enhance labor efficiency which we believe will drive continued profitability improvements.
We believe that our skilled management team, proven technology systems, and training and development programs support our ability to enhance and maintain operating margins at our restaurants and position us well to respond to the changing economic environment we are in. We believe that we have demonstrated our ability to operate profitable and operationally efficient restaurants and we believe that our expertise and scale positions us favorably to combat ongoing macro-economic challenges.
Balanced Approach to Capital Allocation and Generation of Free Cash Flow. We believe our balance sheet provides us with significant liquidity, a long runway in terms of debt maturities, and stable and manageable debt service obligations. Over the past four years, we significantly increased our available liquidity (defined as cash and cash equivalents plus available borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities) to approximately $248.5 million as of December 31, 2023 from $60.6 million as of December 29, 2019. Over the past two years, we have significantly reduced our Total Net Leverage Ratio (as defined in our Senior Credit Facilities) from 5.02 times at January 2, 2022 to 2.54 times at December 31, 2023. We believe we have the financial flexibility to grow our business organically,
through selective new restaurant development and remodeling initiatives, in a manner that will optimize our growth potential while generating consistent free cash flow and managing our leverage levels.
In order to balance capital allocation and preserve free cash flow generation, we reduced capital expenditures from $134.9 million in 2019 and $75.7 million in 2018 to $51.8 million in 2021, $38.2 million in 2022, and $54.6 million in 2023. In connection with our increased adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA and higher free cash flow generation in 2023, we expect our capital expenditure spending to increase in 2024 as we accelerate the number of high-return restaurant remodeling projects and new restaurant development. Overall, we believe our restaurant portfolio has been well-maintained and, as of December 31, 2023, 796 of our 1,022 Burger King restaurants have been remodeled or newly built since 2012. Of our 60 Popeyes restaurants, 14 have been newly built or remodeled in the last five years as of December 31, 2023.
Restaurant Operating Data
Selected restaurant operating data for our restaurants is as follows:
Year Ended
January 2, 2022 January 1, 2023 December 31, 2023
Average annual sales per restaurant (1)
$ 1,529,123 $ 1,590,288 $ 1,744,859
Average sales per transaction $ 9.27 $ 10.26 $ 11.21
Drive-thru sales as a percentage of total sales 81.2 % 75.5 % 69.5 %
Digital sales as a percentage of total sales (2)
6.1 % 7.5 % 10.0 %
Day-part sales percentages:
Breakfast 12.3 % 11.9 % 11.3 %
Lunch 31.6 % 31.8 % 31.5 %
Dinner 22.5 % 22.6 % 22.5 %
Afternoon 21.4 % 21.3 % 21.1 %
Late night 12.2 % 12.4 % 13.6 %
(1)Average annual sales per restaurant are derived by dividing restaurant sales by the average number of restaurants operating during the period on a 52-week basis for the years ended December 31, 2023, January 1, 2023 and January 2, 2022.
(2)Digital sales represents delivery sales through third party providers as well as delivery and mobile ordering through the Burger King and Popeyes mobile apps.
Restaurant Capital Costs
The initial cost of the franchise fee, equipment, seating, signage and other interior costs of a standard new Burger King and Popeyes restaurant currently is approximately $700,000 (which excludes the cost of land, the building and site improvements). In the markets in which we operate, the cost of land generally ranges from $300,000 to $1,600,000 for Burger King restaurants and $300,000 to $1,000,000 for Popeyes restaurants and the cost of building and site improvements generally ranges from $1,800,000 to $2,200,000 for both Burger King and Popeyes restaurants.
With respect to the development of freestanding restaurants, if we acquire land and construct the building, we typically seek to thereafter enter into an arrangement to sell and leaseback the land and building under a long-term lease. Historically, we have been able to acquire and finance many of our locations under such leasing arrangements. Where we are unable to purchase the underlying land, we enter into a long-term lease for the land followed by construction of the building using cash generated from our operations or with borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities.
The cost of securing real estate and developing and equipping new restaurants can vary significantly and depends on a number of factors, including local economic conditions and the characteristics of a particular site. Accordingly, the cost of opening new restaurants in the future may differ substantially from the historical cost of restaurants previously opened and the estimated costs above.
Burger King's current image restaurant seeks to provide a warm and inviting experience with a modern feel for guests. The image incorporates a variety of indoor and outdoor innovative elements to accommodate the digital experience including double drive thru's, dedicated mobile ordering accommodations and kiosks. The cost of remodeling a Burger King restaurant to current image varies depending upon the age and condition of the restaurant and the amount of new equipment needed and can range from $800,000 to $1,700,000 per restaurant. Our average cost of a Burger King remodel was approximately $1.3 million per restaurant in 2023. The total cost of a remodel has increased over time due to construction cost inflation, the addition of a second drive-thru lane at many locations, local municipality site requirements, and the replacement of certain kitchen equipment and building improvements at the time of the remodel which is incremental to the cost to upgrade to the BKC current image design. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Recent and Future Events Affecting our Results of Operations".
Under BKC's "Royal Reset" program, BKC will make certain contributions towards franchisee remodel costs, which increase in value if BKC owns the property and/or if the franchisee agrees to pay a higher royalty rate over the 20-year franchise term renewal.
Site Selection
We believe that the location of our restaurants is a critical component of each restaurant's success. We evaluate potential new sites on many critical criteria including accessibility, visibility, costs, surrounding traffic patterns, competition and demographic characteristics. Our senior management approves the viability of all new sites, remodel and acquisition prospects based upon analyses prepared by our real estate, financial and operations professionals and our return on investment requirements.
Seasonality
Our business is moderately seasonal due to a number of factors such as regional weather conditions and the timing of holidays. Due to the location of our restaurants, sales are generally higher during the summer months than during the winter months.
Restaurant Locations
The following table details the locations of our 1,022 Burger King restaurants as of December 31, 2023:
State Total Restaurants
North Carolina 154
New York 124
Ohio 115
Tennessee 110
Indiana 101
Virginia 66
Pennsylvania 63
Michigan 56
South Carolina 43
Kentucky 41
Mississippi 33
Maryland 29
Louisiana 17
Illinois 16
Maine 14
New Jersey 10
Arkansas 9
Vermont 7
Alabama 6
West Virginia 4
Georgia 2
Massachusetts 1
Missouri 1
Total 1,022
The following table details the locations of our 60 Popeyes restaurants as of December 31, 2023:
State Total Restaurants
Mississippi 32
Tennessee 17
Louisiana 5
Kentucky 3
Indiana 2
Virginia 1
Total 60
Operations
Management Structure
We conduct substantially all of our executive management, finance, marketing and operations support functions from our corporate headquarters in Syracuse, New York. Carrols Restaurant Group is led by our President and Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") Deborah Derby. Ms. Derby, who was appointed CEO in May 2023, has served on our Board of Directors since 2018, and brings with her significant experience leading multi-unit, consumer-focused companies in various industries.
Our restaurant operations are overseen by our Chief Restaurant Officer, Joseph Hoffman, who has worked in Burger King restaurants for over 30 years. As of December 31, 2023, operations for our Burger King restaurants are overseen by our four Senior Division Directors and twelve Regional Directors who collectively had an average of over 20 years of Burger King restaurant experience. We also have 146 district managers who support the Regional Directors in the management of our Burger King restaurants and had an average tenure of over 18 years in the Burger King system as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2023, operations for our Popeyes restaurants are overseen by one Senior Division Director, two Regional Directors and ten district managers.
A district manager is responsible for the direct oversight of the day-to-day operations of an average of approximately seven to eight restaurants. Typically, district managers have previously served as restaurant managers at one of our restaurants. Regional directors, district managers and restaurant managers are compensated with a fixed salary plus an incentive bonus based upon the performance of the restaurants under their supervision, and for our regional directors and district managers, the combined performance of all of our restaurants. Most often, our restaurants are staffed with hourly employees who are supervised by a salaried general manager and one to three assistant managers.
Management Information Systems
We believe that our management information systems provide us with the ability to efficiently and effectively manage our restaurants and to ensure the consistent application of operating controls at our restaurants. Our internal staff of information technology and restaurant systems professionals are dedicated to continuously enhancing our systems. We believe these capabilities allow us to quickly integrate restaurants that we acquire and achieve greater economies of scale and operating efficiencies.
Our restaurants employ POS systems that are designed to facilitate the speed and accuracy of each order. These systems are user-friendly, require limited employee training and improve speed-of-service through the use of conversational order-taking techniques. The POS systems are integrated with applications at the restaurant and hosted systems at our corporate office that are designed to facilitate financial and management control of our restaurant operations.
Our restaurant systems provide daily tracking and reporting of traffic counts, menu item sales, labor and food data including costs and inventories, and other key operating metrics for each restaurant. We communicate electronically with our restaurants on a continuous basis via a high-speed data network, which enables us to collect this information for use in our corporate management systems in near real-time. Our corporate data center manages systems that support our accounting, operating and reporting systems. We also operate a help desk that is open 20 hours each day that enables us to provide systems and operational support to our restaurants. Among other things, our restaurant information systems provide us with the ability to:
•monitor labor utilization and sales trends at each restaurant, enabling the restaurant manager to effectively manage to our established labor standards on a timely basis;
•reduce inventory shrinkage using restaurant-level inventory management systems and daily reporting of inventory variances;
•analyze sales and product mix data to help restaurant managers forecast production levels throughout the day;
•monitor day-part drive-thru speed of service at each of our restaurants;
•allow the restaurant manager to produce day-part labor schedules based on the restaurant's historical sales patterns;
•systematically communicate human resource and payroll data to our administrative offices for efficient centralized management of labor costs and payroll processing;
•allow guests to place mobile, kiosk and third-party delivery orders that integrate directly with the point-of-sale system;
•employ centralized control over pricing, menu and inventory management activities at each restaurant;
•place orders with suppliers and to integrate detailed invoice, receiving and product data with our inventory and accounting systems;
•provide analytics and reporting tools to enable all levels of management to review a wide-range of financial, product mix and operational data; and
•systematically analyze and report on detailed transactional data to help detect and identify potential theft.
Critical information from our systems is available in near real-time to our restaurant managers, who are expected to react quickly to trends or situations in their restaurants. Our district managers also receive near real-time information for their respective restaurants and have access to key operating data on a remote basis using our corporate intranet-based reporting. Management personnel at all levels, from restaurant managers through senior management, utilize and monitor key restaurant performance indicators that are also included in our restaurant-level incentive bonus plans.
Burger King and Popeyes Franchise Agreements
Each of our Burger King restaurants operates under a separate franchise agreement with BKC and each of our Popeyes restaurants operates under a separate franchise agreement with PLK. Our franchise agreements with BKC and PLK generally require, among other things, that all restaurants comply with specified design criteria and operate in a prescribed manner, including utilization of a standard menu. In addition, our Burger King franchise agreements generally require that our restaurants conform to BKC's current image and may provide for updating our restaurants during the tenth year of the agreements to conform to such current image, which may require significant expenditures.
These franchise agreements with BKC and PLK generally provide for an initial term of 20 years and currently have an initial franchise fee of $50,000. In the event that we terminate a franchise agreement and close the related BKC restaurant prior to the expiration of its term, we generally are required to pay BKC an amount based on the net present value of the royalty stream that would have been realized by BKC had such franchise agreement not been terminated. With BKC's and PLK's respective approval, we can elect to extend franchise agreements for additional 20-year terms, provided that the restaurant meets the current restaurant image standard and we are not in default under terms of the franchise agreement. The franchise agreement fee for subsequent renewals for our Burger King and Popeyes restaurants is currently $50,000. BKC or PLK may terminate any of the franchise agreements if an act of default is committed by us under these agreements and such default is not cured. Defaults under the franchise agreements for our Burger King and Popeyes restaurants include, among other things, our failure to operate such restaurant in accordance with the operating standards and specifications established by BKC or PLK (including failure to use equipment, uniforms or decor approved by the respective franchisor), our failure to sell products approved or designated by BKC or PLK, our failure to pay royalties or advertising and sales promotion contributions as required, our unauthorized sale, transfer or assignment of such franchise agreement or the related restaurant, certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency with respect to us, conduct by us or our employees that has a harmful effect on the Burger King or Popeyes restaurant system, or conviction of us or our executive officers for certain indictable offenses. As of December 31, 2023, we have not been formally notified of any events of default under any of our franchise agreements with BKC or PLK.
In order to obtain a successor franchise agreement with BKC and PLK, a franchisee is typically required to make capital improvements to the restaurant to bring it up to BKC's or PLK's current image standards. The cost of these improvements may vary widely depending upon the magnitude of the required changes and the degree to which we have made interim improvements to the restaurant. At December 31, 2023, we had eight Burger King franchise agreements due to expire in 2024, eight Burger King franchise agreements due to expire in 2025 and seven Burger King franchise agreements due to expire in 2026. At December 31, 2023 we had four Popeyes franchise agreement set to expire in 2024, 12 Popeyes franchise agreement set to expire in 2025 and two Popeyes franchise agreements set to expire in 2026.
As of December 31, 2023, we were operating 55 Burger King and 14 Popeyes restaurants under franchise agreements that have expired. We have agreed with BKC to extend the terms of these Burger Kings franchise agreements for a period through March 31, 2025 as part of our commitment to remodel 64 restaurants by the end of 2024. We are also in ongoing discussions with PLK to establish mutually acceptable remodeling requirements and franchise extensions for those franchise agreements, although there can be no assurance we will be able to do so. The expiration of certain franchise agreements prior to December 31, 2023 has not and is not expected to impact our continued operation of these restaurants. We believe that we will be able to satisfy BKC's and PLK's normal franchise agreement renewal criteria. Accordingly, we believe that renewal franchise agreements will be granted by BKC and PLK at the expiration of our existing franchise agreements if we desire to renew. Historically, BKC has not denied our requests for successor franchise agreements, but there can be no assurance that BKC and PLK will grant these requests in the future.
In recent years, the historical costs of improving our Burger King restaurants in connection with franchise renewals, excluding scrape and rebuild projects, generally have ranged from $500,000 to $1,300,000 per restaurant. The average cost of our Burger King remodels in 2023 was approximately $1.3 million per restaurant. The cost of remodels can vary depending upon the age and condition of the restaurant and the amount of new equipment needed. The cost of capital improvements made in connection with future franchise agreement renewals may differ substantially from past franchise renewals depending on the current image requirements established from time to time by BKC or PLK.
We evaluate the performance of our Burger King and Popeyes restaurants on an ongoing basis. With respect to franchise renewals, such evaluation depends on many factors, including our assessment of the anticipated future operating results of the subject restaurants and the cost of required capital improvements that we would need to commit for such restaurants. If we determine that a Burger King or Popeyes restaurant is under-performing, or that we do not anticipate an adequate return on the capital investment required to renew the franchise agreement, we may elect to close such restaurant. We may also relocate (or offset) a restaurant within its trade area and build a new Burger King or Popeyes restaurant as part of the franchise renewal process. In 2023, we closed five Burger King restaurants, which included one offset location, and five Popeyes restaurants. We currently expect to close less than five restaurants in 2024, excluding any relocations of existing restaurants. Our determination to close these restaurants is subject to further evaluation and may change. We may also elect to close additional restaurants in the future.
In addition to the initial franchise fee, we generally pay BKC and PLK a monthly royalty. The royalty rate for new Burger King restaurants and for successor franchise agreements is 4.5% of sales. The royalty rate for new Popeyes restaurants and for successor franchise agreements is 5.0% of sales. Royalty payments for restaurants acquired from other franchisees are based on the terms of existing franchise agreements being acquired, and may be less than 4.5%. Burger King royalties, as a percentage of restaurant sales, were 4.4% in 2023, 4.4% in 2022 and 4.4% in 2021. We anticipate our Burger King and Popeyes royalties, as a percentage of restaurant sales, will be approximately 4.5% and 5.0%, respectively, in 2024 as a result of the terms outlined above.
We also generally contribute 4.0% of restaurant sales from our Burger King and Popeyes restaurants to fund BKC's and PLK's national and regional advertising. Pursuant to the Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement dated as of January 4, 2021 among the Company, Carrols Corporation, Carrols LLC and BKC (the "Amended ADA"), newly constructed Burger King restaurants will receive a 3.0% advertising contribution reduction for four years and certain remodeled restaurants, excluding upgrades, will receive a 0.75% advertising contribution reduction for a five year period. BKC and PLK engage in substantial national and regional advertising and promotional activities and other efforts to maintain and enhance both brands. From time to time we supplement BKC's marketing with our own local advertising and promotional campaigns. See "Advertising, Products and Promotion" below.
Our franchise agreements with BKC and PLK do not give us exclusive rights to operate Burger King restaurants in any defined territory. Although we believe that BKC generally seeks to ensure that newly granted franchises do not materially adversely affect the operations of existing Burger King restaurants, we cannot assure you that franchises granted by BKC to third parties will not adversely affect any Burger King restaurants that we operate.
Advertising, Products and Promotion
BKC's marketing strategy is characterized by its HAVE IT YOUR WAY® service, "You Rule.™" tag line, flame grilling, generous portions and competitive prices. Burger King restaurants feature flame-grilled hamburgers, the most popular of which is the Whopper sandwich, a large, flame-grilled hamburger topped with tomatoes, lettuce, mayonnaise, ketchup, pickles, and sliced onions on a toasted sesame seed bun. The basic menu of all Burger King restaurants also includes a variety of hamburgers, chicken and other specialty sandwiches, including plant-based options, in addition to french fries, onion rings, soft drinks, breakfast items, snacks and other offerings. BKC and its franchisees have historically spent between 4% and 5% of their respective sales on marketing, advertising and promotion to sustain high brand awareness. BKC's marketing initiatives are designed to reach a diverse consumer base and BKC has continued to introduce several new and enhanced products to broaden menu offerings and drive guest traffic in all day parts.
PLK's marketing strategy is defined by its "Easy to Love" plan and "Love That Chicken®" from Popeyes' tagline. Popeyes restaurants feature a Louisiana-inspired home cooking styled menu including fried chicken, chicken wings, chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, fried shrimp and other seafood, red beans and rice and other regional offerings.
BKC's and PLK's advertising programs consist of national campaigns supplemented by local advertising. BKC's and PLK's advertising campaigns are generally carried on television, digital and social media, radio and in circulated print media (national and regional newspapers and magazines). As a percentage of our restaurant sales advertising expense was 4.1% in 2023, 4.0% in 2022 and 4.0% in 2021. For 2024, we expect total advertising expense to be approximately 4.0% of total restaurant sales.
The efficiency and quality of advertising and promotional programs can significantly affect the quick-service restaurant businesses. We believe that one of the major advantages of being a Burger King franchisee is the value of the extensive national and regional advertising and promotional programs conducted by BKC. In addition to the benefits derived from BKC's advertising spending, we are able to supplement BKC's advertising and promotional activities with our own local advertising and promotions, including the purchase of geo-targeted digital display, radio and out-of-home advertising. The concentration of our Burger King restaurants in many of our markets permits us to leverage advertising in those markets. We also utilize promotional programs targeted to our guests, such as combination value meals and discounted prices in order to create a flexible and directed marketing program.
In September 2022, BKC announced its "Reclaim the Flame" plan, which was developed in collaboration with its franchisees to accelerate sales growth and drive restaurant-level profitability. The plan includes Burger King investing $400 million through 2024, comprised of $150 million in advertising and digital investments to "Fuel the Flame" and $250 million for a "Royal Reset" involving investments in restaurant technology, kitchen equipment, building enhancements and high-quality remodels and relocations.
In 2022, we entered into an agreement with BKC in connection with their "Reclaim the Flame" investment plan. Pursuant to this initiative, BKC has agreed to fund $120 million in additional advertising expenditures over the period October 1, 2022 through December 31, 2024. Following the investment period in 2023 and 2024, participating franchisees, including us, have agreed to increase our advertising fund contributions by 50 basis points through 2026 if a profitability threshold for the Burger King system is met for the full fiscal year 2024, and further through 2028 if a secondary profitability threshold is met for the full fiscal year 2026, in order to continue the brand's elevated advertising spend.
Digital
BKC and PLK have invested heavily in launching a digital platform that integrates with major third-party delivery service providers and provides a seamless ordering, payment, delivery and drive-thru experience for our guests. In the BKC and PLK platforms, guests can place orders through a website or mobile app and have the product ready for pickup or delivered by a third-party partner. In 2021, RBI introduced the Royal Perks loyalty program for Burger King and the Popeyes Rewards loyalty program for Popeyes to entice guests to visit more often as well as receive personalized offers on their respective mobile apps. BKC and PLK continue to invest in their digital platforms, and digital sales, including sales through the delivery platforms plus mobile app pickup orders, have been a strong growth driver and represented approximately 10.0% of our restaurant sales in 2023 and 7.5% of our restaurant sales in 2022.
With respect to technology in our restaurants, we finished installing outdoor digital menu boards at all Burger King and Popeyes restaurants in 2022. The digital menu boards integrate with our POS system and utilize artificial intelligence to help optimize the guest experience. In 2023, as part of the "Royal Reset" program with BKC, we began an initiative to install kiosks into many of our Burger King restaurants and as of December 31, 2023, we had 66 Burger King restaurants with kiosks installed. Kiosk sales were approximately $0.4 million in 2023. We expect that having kiosks in our Burger King restaurants will increase our average check and improve the overall guest experience.
Suppliers
We are a member of a national purchasing cooperative, Restaurant Services, Inc., which we refer to as "RSI", created for the Burger King system. RSI is a non-profit independent purchasing cooperative that is responsible for sourcing our products and related supplies and managing relationships with approved distributors for the Burger King system. We use our purchasing power to negotiate directly with certain other vendors, to help obtain favorable pricing and terms for supplying our restaurants. For our Burger King restaurants, we are required to purchase all of our foodstuffs, paper goods and packaging materials from BKC-approved suppliers at prices negotiated by RSI. We currently primarily utilize four distributors, McLane Company Inc., Lineage Foodservice Solutions, LLC, Reinhart Food Service L.L.C and Performance Foodservice, to supply our Burger King restaurants with the majority of our foodstuffs. As of December 31, 2023, such distributors supplied 31%, 31% 28% and 10%, respectively, of our Burger King restaurants. Additionally, one bakery company supplies the rolls used in approximately 50% of our Burger King restaurants and a second bakery supplies rolls for approximately 26% of our Burger King restaurants.
For our Popeyes restaurants, we are a member of a national purchasing cooperative, Supply Management Services, Inc. ("SMS"). SMS is a non-profit independent purchasing cooperative that is responsible for sourcing certain of our products and managing relationships with approved distributors for the Popeyes system. Popeyes utilizes three distributors for its Popeyes restaurants. All three provide poultry products and two provide all other products. For the Company's Popeyes restaurants, one distributor, Performance Foodservice, is the poultry product supplier for 85% of our restaurants and the non-poultry products supplier for 94% of our restaurants.
We may purchase non-food items, such as kitchen utensils, equipment maintenance tools and other supplies, from any suitable source so long as such items meet BKC and PLK product uniformity standards. All BKC-approved and PLK-approved distributors are required to purchase foodstuffs and supplies from BKC-approved and PLK-approved manufacturers and purveyors. BKC and PLK are each responsible for monitoring quality control and supervision of the applicable manufacturers. Each conducts regular visits to observe the preparation of foodstuffs and to perform various tests to ensure that only quality foodstuffs are sold to its approved suppliers. In addition, BKC and PLK coordinate and supervise audits of approved suppliers and distributors to determine continuing product specification compliance and to ensure that manufacturing plant and distribution center standards are met. Although we believe that we have alternative sources of supply available to our restaurants, the failure of a distributor or supplier for our restaurants to service us could lead to a disruption of service or supply at our restaurants until a new distributor or supplier is engaged, which could have an adverse effect on our business.
Guest Experience
Our operational focus is closely monitored to achieve a high level of guest satisfaction based on product quality, speed of service, order accuracy and quality of service. Our senior management and restaurant management staffs are principally responsible for ensuring compliance with BKC's and PLK's required operating procedures. We have uniform operating standards and specifications relating to the quality, preparation and selection of menu items, maintenance and cleanliness of the premises and employee conduct. In order to maintain compliance with these operating standards and specifications, we distribute detailed reports measuring compliance with various guest service standards and objectives to our restaurant operations management team, including feedback obtained directly from our guests through instructions given to them at the point of sale. The guest feedback is monitored by an independent agency and us and consists of evaluations of speed of service, quality of service, quality of our menu items and other operational objectives including the cleanliness of our restaurants. We also have our own staff that handle guest inquiries and complaints. The level of guest satisfaction is a key metric in our restaurant-level incentive bonus plans.
We operate in accordance with quality assurance and health standards mandated by federal, state and local governmental laws and regulations. These standards include food preparation rules regarding, among other things, minimum cooking times and temperatures, maximum time standards for holding prepared food, food handling guidelines and cleanliness. To maintain these standards, third-party firms under BKC's oversight conduct unscheduled inspections and follow-up inspections of our restaurants and report their findings to us. In addition, restaurant managers conduct internal inspections for taste, quality, cleanliness and food safety on a regular basis.
Trademarks
As a franchisee of Burger King and Popeyes, we also have contractual rights to use certain trademarks, service marks and other intellectual property relating to the Burger King and Popeyes concepts. We have no proprietary intellectual property other than the Carrols logo and trademark.
Government Regulation
Various federal, state and local laws affect our business, including various health, sanitation, fire and safety standards. Restaurants to be constructed or remodeled are subject to state and local building code and zoning requirements. In connection with the development and remodeling of our restaurants, we may incur costs to meet certain federal, state and local regulations, including regulations promulgated under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
We are subject to the federal Fair Labor Standards Act and various other federal and state laws governing such matters as the handling, preparation and sale of food and beverages; the provision of nutritional information on menu boards; minimum wage requirements; unemployment compensation; overtime; and other working conditions and citizenship requirements.
A significant number of our food service personnel are paid at rates related to the federal, and where applicable, state minimum wage. Accordingly, increases in the minimum wage have increased and in the future will increase wage rates at our restaurants.
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the "Act") required businesses employing fifty or more full-time equivalent employees to offer health care benefits to those full-time employees or be subject to an annual penalty. Those benefits must be provided under a health care plan which provides a certain minimum scope of health care services. The Act also limits the portion of the cost of the benefits which we can require employees to pay. Based on our enrollment history to date, approximately 16% of our approximately 3,800 eligible hourly employees have opted for coverage under our medical plan.
We are also subject to various federal, state and local environmental laws, rules and regulations. We believe that we conduct our operations in substantial compliance with applicable environmental laws, rules and regulations. Our costs for compliance with environmental laws, rules and regulations has not had a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition in the past.
Industry and Competition
Limited-Service Restaurants. We operate in the hamburger and chicken categories of the limited-service restaurant segment of the restaurant industry. Limited-service restaurants are distinguished by high speed of service and efficiency, convenience, limited menu and service, and value pricing. We believe that limited-service restaurants are well-positioned to increase their sales in the current environment. According to the National Restaurant Association, the limited-service segment is projected to grow from $417 billion in 2023 to $442 billion in 2024, representing a projected 6% increase in sales and 40% of total restaurant and food industry sales.
The restaurant industry is highly competitive with respect to price, service, location and food quality. In each of our markets, our restaurants compete with a large number of national and regional restaurant chains, as well as locally-owned restaurants, offering low and medium-priced fare. We also compete with operators outside the restaurant industry such as convenience stores, delicatessens and prepared food counters in supermarkets, grocery stores, cafeterias and other purveyors offering moderately priced and quickly prepared foods. Our competitors may also employ marketing strategies such as frequent use of price discounting, frequent promotions and an emphasis on value menus.
We believe that product quality and taste, brand recognition, convenience of location, speed of service, menu variety, price and ambiance are the most important competitive factors in the quick-service restaurant segment and that our restaurants effectively compete in each category. We believe our largest competitors for our Burger King restaurants are McDonald's and Wendy's and the largest competitors for our Popeyes restaurants are KFC and Chick-fil-A.
Human Capital Management
As of December 31, 2023, we employed approximately 25,000 persons, of which approximately 200 were administrative personnel and approximately 24,800 were restaurant operations personnel. Approximately 88% of our employees are part-time and 56% have been employed by the Company for less than one year. None of our employees are unionized or covered by collective bargaining agreements. We believe that our overall relations with our employees are good and that our efforts to manage our workforce have been effective.
Diversity. We are committed to fostering a culture that encourages diversity and inclusion, and having diverse representation in our workforce. As of December 31, 2023, 54% of our employees were female and approximately 52% of our employees self-identified as belonging to a racial or ethnic minority group.
Training and Education. We maintain a comprehensive training and development program for all of our personnel and provide both classroom and in-restaurant training for our salaried and hourly restaurant personnel. Our program emphasizes, among other things, system-wide operating procedures, food preparation methods, food safety and guest service standards. BKC's and PLK's training and development programs are also available to us as a franchisee through web access in all of our restaurants. We also offer an educational assistance plan that provides full-time corporate staff, salaried employees and assistant managers up to $4,000 per year to take advantage of after-hour educational opportunities to improve their skills in their present position or prepare them to assume greater responsibilities within the Company.
Resources and Support. In response to the economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we established the Carrols Cares Fund in April 2020 to provide financial assistance to employees in need. Since its launch, the Fund has evolved into a corporate-level initiative that provides assistance to more than just employees who have experienced hardship as a result of the pandemic, providing employees with support such as of bereavement expenses and financial relief after a house fire. During 2023, the fund provided more than $264,000 to support over 300 employees. We also support community-based organizations through our Matching Gift Program and our "Dollars for Doers" volunteer program.
Availability of Information
We file annual, quarterly and current reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). The SEC also maintains a website that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC at www.sec.gov.
We make available at no cost through our internet website at www.carrols.com, our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports, as well as other reports relating to us that are filed or furnished to the SEC, as soon as reasonably practicable after electronically filing or furnishing such material with the SEC. The references to our website address and the SEC website address do not constitute incorporation by reference of the information contained on these websites and should not be considered part of this document.

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider the risks described below, as well as other information and data included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Any of the following risks could materially adversely affect our business, consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
Risks Related to Our Business
We could be materially adversely affected by health concerns such as the COVID-19 pandemic, food-borne illnesses, as well as negative publicity regarding food quality, illness, injury or other health concerns.
The United States and other countries have experienced, or may experience in the future, outbreaks of viruses, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, norovirus, Avian Flu or "SARS," or H1N1. If a virus is transmitted by human contact, our employees or customers may become infected, or may choose, or be advised, to avoid gathering in public places, any of which may adversely affect our restaurant customer traffic and our ability to adequately staff our restaurants, receive deliveries on a timely basis or perform functions at the corporate level. We also may be adversely affected if jurisdictions in which we have restaurants impose mandatory closures, seek voluntary closures or impose restrictions on operations. Even if such measures are not implemented and a virus or other disease does not spread significantly, the perceived risk of infection or significant health risk may adversely affect our business.
A health pandemic (such as the COVID-19 pandemic) is a disease outbreak that spreads rapidly and widely by infection and affects many individuals in an area or population at the same time. Our restaurants are places where people can gather together for human connection. Customers might avoid public gathering places in the event of a health pandemic, and local, regional or national governments might limit or ban public gatherings to halt or delay the spread of disease. The impact of a health pandemic on us might be disproportionately greater than on other quick-service concepts that have lower customer traffic and that depend less on the gathering of people.
Additionally, negative publicity about food quality, illness, injury or other health concerns (including health implications of obesity) or similar issues stemming from one restaurant or a number of restaurants could materially adversely affect our results of operations, regardless of whether they pertain to our own restaurants, other Burger King or Popeyes restaurants, or to restaurants owned or operated by other companies. For example, health concerns about the consumption of beef, chicken or eggs or events such as a disease outbreak could lead to changes in consumer preferences, reduce consumption of our products and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. These events could also reduce available supply or significantly raise the price of beef, chicken or eggs.
In addition, we cannot guarantee that our operational controls and employee training will be effective in preventing food-borne illnesses, food tampering and other food safety issues that may affect our restaurants. Food-borne illness or food tampering incidents could be caused by customers, employees or food suppliers and transporters and, therefore, could be outside of our control. Any negative publicity relating to health concerns or the perceived or specific outbreaks of food-borne illnesses, food tampering or other food safety issues attributed to one or more of our restaurants, could result in a significant decrease in guest traffic in all of our restaurants and could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. Furthermore, similar publicity or occurrences with respect to other restaurants or restaurant chains could also decrease our guest traffic and have a similar material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Intense competition in the restaurant industry could make it more difficult to profitably expand our business and could also have a negative impact on our operating results if customers favor our competitors or we are forced to change our pricing and other marketing strategies.
The restaurant industry is highly competitive. In each of our markets, our restaurants compete with a large number of national and regional restaurant chains, as well as locally-owned restaurants, offering low and medium-priced fare. We also compete with other convenience stores, delicatessens and prepared food counters in grocery stores, supermarkets, cafeterias and other purveyors of moderately priced and quickly prepared food. We believe our largest competitors for our Burger King restaurants are McDonald's and Wendy's restaurants and the largest competitors for our Popeyes restaurants are KFC and Chick-fil-A.
Due to competitive conditions, we, as well as certain of the other major quick-service restaurant chains, have offered select food items and combination meals at discounted prices. These pricing and marketing strategies have had, and in the future may have, a negative impact on our earnings.
Factors applicable to the quick-service restaurant segment may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition, which may cause a decrease in earnings and restaurant sales.
The quick-service restaurant segment can be materially adversely affected by many factors, including: health concerns such as the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19); changes in local, regional or national economic conditions; inflation; increases in the cost of food, such as beef, chicken, produce and packaging; increased labor costs, including healthcare, unemployment insurance and minimum wage requirements; changes in demographic trends; changes in consumer tastes; changes in traffic patterns; increases in fuel prices and utility costs; consumer concerns about health, diet and nutrition; increases in the number of, and particular locations of, competing restaurants; changes in discretionary consumer spending; the availability of experienced management and hourly-paid employees; and regional weather conditions.
We are highly dependent on the Burger King and Popeyes systems and our ability to renew our franchise agreements with BKC and PLK. The failure to renew our franchise agreements or Burger King's or Popeyes' failure to compete effectively would materially adversely affect our results of operations.
Due to the nature of franchising and our agreements with BKC and PLK, our success is, to a large extent, directly related to the success of the Burger King and Popeyes systems including their financial condition, advertising programs, product development, overall quality of operations and the successful and consistent operation of Burger King and Popeyes restaurants owned by other franchisees. We cannot assure you that Burger King or Popeyes restaurants will be able to compete effectively with other restaurants. As a result, any failure of the Burger King or Popeyes franchise systems to compete effectively would likely have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Under each of our franchise agreements, we are required to comply with operational programs established by BKC or PLK. For example, our franchise agreements with BKC and PLK require that our restaurants comply with specified design criteria. In addition, BKC generally has the right to require us during the tenth year of a franchise agreement to remodel our restaurants to conform to the then-current image of Burger King restaurants, and PLK generally has the right to require us to remodel our restaurants to conform to the then-current image of Popeyes restaurants every six years, all of which may require the expenditure of considerable funds. We also may not be able to avoid adopting menu price discount promotions or permanent menu price decreases instituted by BKC or PLK that may be unprofitable.
Our BKC franchise agreements typically have a 20-year term after which BKC's consent is required to receive a successor franchise agreement. Our PLK franchise agreements typically also have a 20-year term after which we have the options to (a) renew for a 10-year renewal term and (b) renew for a second supplemental renewal term of 10 years provided that we meet certain conditions as set forth in the PLK franchise agreements.
We cannot assure you that BKC will grant each of our future requests for successor franchise agreements or that we will be able to exercise any of the options to renew the PLK franchise agreements. Any failure of BKC to renew our franchise agreements would materially adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. In addition, as a condition of approval of a successor franchise agreement, BKC may require us to make capital improvements to particular restaurants to bring them up to current image standards established by Burger King, which may require us to incur substantial costs. Similarly, one of the conditions to our ability to exercise the option
to renew our PLK franchise agreements is that we must make capital improvements to particular restaurants to bring them up to current image standards established by Popeyes, which may require us to incur substantial costs.
In addition, our franchise agreements with BKC and PLK do not give us exclusive rights to operate Burger King or Popeyes restaurants in any defined territory. We cannot assure you that franchises granted by BKC or PLK to third parties will not adversely affect any restaurants that we operate.
Additionally, as a franchisee, we have no control over the Burger King brand or the Popeyes brand. If BKC and PLK do not adequately protect the Burger King and Popeyes brands and other intellectual property, our competitive position and results of operations could be harmed.
An increase in food costs could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Our profitability and operating margins are dependent in part on our ability to anticipate and react to changes in food costs. Changes in the price or availability of certain food products, could affect our ability to offer broad menu and price offerings to guests and could materially adversely affect our profitability and reputation. The type, variety, quality, source and price of beef, chicken, produce and cheese can be subject to change due to factors beyond our control, including weather, governmental regulation, availability and seasonality, each of which may affect our food costs or cause a disruption in our supply. Our food distributors or suppliers may also be affected by higher costs to produce and transport commodities used in our restaurants, higher minimum wage and benefit costs and other expenses that they pass through to their customers, which could result in higher costs for goods and services supplied to us. Although RSI is able to contract for certain food commodities for periods up to one year, the pricing and availability of some commodities used in our operations are not locked in for periods of longer than one week or at all. We do not currently use financial instruments to hedge our risk of market fluctuations in the price of beef, produce and other food products. We may not be able to anticipate and react to changing food costs through menu price adjustments in the future, which could negatively impact our results of operations and financial condition.
The efficiency and quality of our competitors' advertising and promotional programs and the extent and cost of our advertising could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
The success of our restaurants depends in part upon the effectiveness of the advertising campaigns and promotions by BKC or PLK. If our competitors increase spending on advertising and promotion, or the cost of television or radio advertising increases, or BKC's, PLK's or our advertising and promotions are less effective than our competitors', it could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Our strategy may include pursuing acquisitions of additional Burger King and Popeyes restaurants and we may not find Burger King restaurants or Popeyes restaurants that are suitable acquisition candidates or successfully operate or integrate any acquired Burger King restaurants or Popeyes restaurants.
As part of our strategy, we may selectively pursue the acquisition of additional Burger King and Popeyes restaurants. There can be no assurance that we will receive consent from our franchisors to acquire additional restaurants.
Competition for acquisition candidates may exist or increase in the future. Consequently, there may be fewer acquisition opportunities available to us at an attractive acquisition price. There can be no assurance that we will be able to identify, acquire, manage or successfully integrate additional restaurants without substantial costs, delays or operational or financial problems. In the event we are able to acquire additional restaurants, the integration and operation of the acquired restaurants may place significant demands on our management, which could adversely affect our ability to manage our existing restaurants. We may be required to obtain additional financing to fund future acquisitions. There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain additional financing, if necessary, on acceptable terms or at all. Our Senior Credit Facilities contain restrictive covenants that may prevent us from incurring additional debt to acquire additional Burger King or Popeyes restaurants.
We may incur significant liability or reputational harm if claims are brought against us or the Burger King and Popeyes brands.
We may be subject to complaints, regulatory proceedings or litigation from guests or other persons alleging food-related illness, injuries suffered in our premises or other food quality, health or operational concerns, including environmental claims. In addition, in recent years a number of restaurant companies have been subject to lawsuits, including class action lawsuits, alleging, among other things, violations of federal and state law regarding workplace and employment matters, discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination and wage, rest break, meal break and overtime compensation issues and, in the case of quick-service restaurants, alleging that they have failed to disclose the health risks associated with high fat or high sodium foods and that their marketing practices have encouraged obesity. We may also be subject to litigation or other actions initiated by governmental authorities or our employees, among others, based upon these and other matters. Adverse publicity resulting from such allegations or occurrences or alleged discrimination or other operating issues stemming from one or a number of our locations could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition, regardless of whether the allegations are true, or whether we are ultimately held liable. Any cases filed against us could materially adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition if we lose such cases and have to pay substantial damages or if we settle such cases. In addition, any such cases may materially adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition by increasing our litigation costs and diverting our attention and resources to address such actions. Furthermore, if a claim is successful, our insurance coverage may not cover or be adequate to cover all liabilities or losses and we may not be able to continue to maintain such insurance, or to obtain comparable insurance at a reasonable cost, if at all. If we suffer losses, liabilities or loss of income in excess of our insurance coverage or if our insurance does not cover such loss, liability or loss of income, there could be a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Changes in consumer taste could negatively impact our business.
We obtain a significant portion of our revenues from the sale of hamburgers, fried chicken and various types of sandwiches. If consumer preferences for these types of foods change, it could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. The quick-service restaurant segment is characterized by the frequent introduction of new products, often supported by substantial promotional campaigns, and is subject to changing consumer preferences, tastes, and eating and purchasing habits. Our success depends on BKC's and PLK's ability to anticipate and respond to changing consumer preferences, tastes and dining and purchasing habits, as well as other factors affecting the restaurant industry, including new market entrants and demographic changes. BKC or PLK may be forced to make changes to our menu items in order to respond to changes in consumer tastes or dining patterns, and we may lose customers who do not prefer the new menu items. In recent years, numerous companies in the quick-service restaurant segments have introduced products positioned to capitalize on the growing consumer preference for food products that are, or are perceived to be, promoting good health, nutritious, low in calories, low in fat content or plant-based. If BKC or PLK does not continually develop and successfully introduce new menu offerings that appeal to changing consumer preferences or if the Burger King and Popeyes franchise systems do not timely develop new products, our results of operations and financial condition could suffer. In addition, any significant event that adversely affects consumption of our products, such as cost, changing tastes or health concerns, could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
We could be adversely affected by our failure to acknowledge and sufficiently respond to the fast-moving influence of social media.
The widespread use of social media platforms can provide individuals with access to a broad audience at any time of day. The content shared by users on these platforms may be published without consideration of accuracy or its potential impact. Such content may be factually inaccurate, but nonetheless negatively impact our customer engagement, business operations, brand reputation or financial performance. This damage could be fast-moving and not allow us or our franchisors a chance to address the situation.
If a significant disruption in service or supply by any of our suppliers or distributors were to occur, it could create disruptions in the operations of our restaurants, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Our financial performance depends on our continuing ability to offer fresh, quality food at competitive prices. If a significant disruption in service or supply by our suppliers or distributors were to occur, it could create disruptions in the operations of our restaurants, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
We are a member of a national purchasing cooperative, Restaurant Services, Inc., created for the Burger King system. RSI is a non-profit independent purchasing cooperative that is responsible for sourcing our products and related supplies and managing relationships with approved distributors for the Burger King system. We use our purchasing power to negotiate directly with certain other vendors, to obtain favorable pricing and terms for supplying our restaurants. For our Burger King restaurants, we are required to purchase all of our foodstuffs, paper goods and packaging materials from BKC-approved suppliers at prices negotiated by RSI. We currently primarily utilize four distributors, McLane Company Inc., Lineage Foodservice Solutions, LLC, Reinhart Food Service LLC and Performance Foodservice, to supply our Burger King restaurants with the majority of our foodstuffs. As of December 31, 2023, such distributors supplied 31%, 31% 28% and 10%, respectively, of our Burger King restaurants. Additionally, one bakery company supplies the rolls used in approximately 50% of our Burger King restaurants and a second bakery company supplies rolls for another approximately 26% of our Burger King restaurants.
For our Popeyes restaurants, we are a member of a national purchasing cooperative, Supply Management Services, Inc. SMS is a non-profit independent purchasing cooperative that is responsible for sourcing certain of our products and managing relationships with approved distributors for the Popeyes system. Popeyes utilizes three distributors. All three provide poultry products and two provide all other products. For our Popeyes restaurants, one distributor, Performance Foodservice, supplies 85% of our poultry products and 94% of our, non-poultry products.
In the event that any of our distributors or suppliers are unable to service us and we are unable to timely secure alternative sources for product, we could suffer a disruption of service until a new distributor or supplier is engaged, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Supply shortages and price increases could delay or increase the cost of construction, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Our continued growth and financial performance is dependent, in part, on our ability to open new restaurants and remodel restaurants to comply with criteria established by BKC and PLK. During 2021, pandemic-related disruptions in the global supply chain significantly increased the cost, and decreased the availability, of both labor and construction materials and we expect this to continue into 2024. The scarcity of construction materials and associated price increases could delay the opening of restaurants and increase the cost of construction for our new and existing restaurants, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Increases in fuel costs and transportation costs could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
The price and supply of fuel are unpredictable and fluctuate based on circumstances outside of our control. Increases in fuel costs could lead to reductions in the frequency of consumers dining out or the amount spent in our restaurants. In addition, increases in fuel costs could result in higher production and transportation costs for our distributors and suppliers, which may be passed on to us through higher costs for the goods they supply. Any such decrease in consumers dining out or the amount spent in our restaurants or increase in costs could have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition, to the extent occurring over an extended period of time and we are not able to offset through an increase in our prices.
If labor costs increase, we may not be able to make a corresponding increase in our prices and our results of operations and financial condition may be materially adversely affected.
Wage rates for a number of our employees are either at or slightly above the federal and or state minimum wage rates. As federal and/or state minimum wage rates increase, we may need to increase not only the wage rates of our employees paid at the minimum wage but also the wages paid to the employees at higher wage rates, which
will increase our costs. The extent to which we are not able to raise our prices to compensate for increases in wage rates, including increases in state unemployment insurance costs or other costs including mandated health insurance, could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. In addition, even if minimum wage rates do not increase, we may still be required to raise wage rates in order to compete for an adequate supply of labor for our restaurants.
Higher labor costs due to statutory and regulatory changes could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
We are subject to the federal labor laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act, as well as various state and local laws governing such matters as minimum wages, labor relations, workplace safety, citizenship requirements and other working conditions for employees. Federal, state and local laws may also require us to provide paid and unpaid leave, healthcare, sick time or other benefits to our employees. Changes in the law, or penalties associated with any failure on our part to comply with legal requirements, could increase our labor costs or result in additional expense.
Beginning in 2018, certain workers were able to take up to eight weeks (which increased in New York and other areas to twelve weeks in 2021) of employer-provided paid leave for childbirth, care for a seriously ill family member or needs related to a family member's military deployment. We have considered these labor costs in our price changes, and additional labor costs may require us to raise our prices in the future. In certain geographic areas which cannot absorb such increases, this could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. We provide unpaid leave for employees for covered family and medical reasons, including childbirth, to the extent required by the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, as amended, and applicable state laws. To the extent we need to hire additional employees or pay overtime to replace such employees on leave, this would be an added expense which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
If we are not able to hire and retain qualified restaurant personnel it could create disruptions in the operation of our restaurants and lead to increases in labor costs which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operation and financial condition.
We rely on our restaurant-level employees to provide outstanding service and quality food for the thousands of guests we serve every day. We believe that our continued success depends, in part, on our ability to attract and retain the services of qualified restaurant personnel, and we devote significant resources to recruiting, training and retaining our restaurant managers and hourly team members.
If we are unable to hire and retain qualified restaurant personnel sufficient to staff our restaurants, it could create disruptions in the operation of our restaurants which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operation and financial condition. Increases in labor costs resulting from employee shortages in the labor market could also have a material adverse effect on our results of operation and financial condition.
Increases in income tax rates or changes in income tax laws could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
Increases in income tax rates in the United States or other changes in income tax laws in any particular jurisdiction could reduce our after-tax income from such jurisdiction and could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. The United States made changes to existing tax laws in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Tax Act"), which was signed into law on December 22, 2017. Among its many provisions, the Tax Act reduced the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% and imposed limitations on the deductibility of interest and certain other corporate deductions. Additional changes in the U.S. tax regime, including changes in how existing tax laws are interpreted or enforced, could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
Our business is regional and we therefore face risks related to reliance on certain markets as well as risks for other unforeseen events.
At December 31, 2023, 14% of our restaurants were located in North Carolina, 11% were located in New York, 12% were located in Tennessee, and 25% were located in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan. Therefore, the economic conditions, state and local government regulations, weather or other conditions affecting North Carolina,
New York, Tennessee, Indiana, Ohio and Michigan, and other unforeseen events, including terrorism and other regional issues, may have a material impact on the success of our restaurants in those locations.
Many of our restaurants are located in regions that may be susceptible to severe weather conditions such as harsh winter weather and hurricanes. As a result, adverse weather conditions in any of these areas could damage these restaurants, result in fewer guest visits to these restaurants and otherwise have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
We could be materially adversely affected by external events such as extreme weather, natural disasters, terrorist actions, pandemics and civil unrest, among others.
External events such as extreme weather, natural disasters, terrorist actions, pandemics and civil unrest, and anticipation of such events, can adversely affect consumer spending, supply availability and costs, and our ability to operate our business in any impacted market.
Climate change could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
We and our supply chain are subject to risks and costs arising from the effects of climate change, global warming and diminishing energy and water resources. Climate change may have a negative effect on agricultural productivity which may result in decreased availability or less favorable pricing for certain commodities used in our products, such as beef, chicken, produce and dairy. Climate change may also increase the frequency or severity of natural disasters and other extreme weather conditions, which could disrupt the business of our suppliers, cause temporary restaurant closures and negatively impact guest traffic at our restaurants. Concern over climate change and other environmental and social sustainable business practices may result in new or increased legal and regulatory requirements, which could significantly increase costs. Furthermore, any perception of a failure to act responsibly with respect to the environment or to effectively respond to regulatory requirements concerning climate change or other sustainable business practices could lead to adverse publicity and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
We cannot assure you that the current locations of our restaurants will continue to be economically viable or that additional locations can be acquired at reasonable costs.
The location of our restaurants has significant influence on their success. We cannot assure you that current locations will continue to be economically viable or that additional locations can be acquired at reasonable costs. In addition, the economic environment where restaurants are located could decline in the future, which could result in reduced sales for those locations. We cannot assure you that new sites will be profitable or as profitable as existing sites.
Economic downturns may adversely impact consumer spending patterns.
The U.S. economy has in the past experienced significant slowdown and volatility due to uncertainties related to the availability of credit, difficulties in the banking and financial services sectors, softness in the housing market, diminished market liquidity, falling consumer confidence and high unemployment rates including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our business is dependent to a significant extent on national, regional and local economic conditions, particularly those that affect our guests that frequently patronize our restaurants and the health of surrounding businesses who employ a significant amount of workers. In particular, where our customers' disposable income is reduced (such as by job losses, credit constraints and higher housing, tax, energy, interest or other costs) or where our customer's actual or perceived wealth has decreased (because of circumstances such as lower residential real estate values, increased foreclosure rates, increased tax rates or other economic disruptions), our restaurants have in the past experienced, and may in the future experience, lower sales and customer traffic as customers choose lower-cost alternatives or other alternatives to dining out. The resulting decrease in our customer traffic or average sales per transaction has had an adverse effect in the past, and could in the future have a material adverse effect, on our results of operations and financial condition.
The loss of the services of our senior management could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Our success depends to a large extent upon the continued services of our senior management who have substantial experience in the restaurant industry. We believe that it could be difficult to replace our senior
management with individuals having comparable experience. Consequently, the loss of the services of members of our senior management could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Government regulation could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
We are subject to extensive laws and regulations relating to the development and operation of restaurants, including, without limitation, regulations relating to the following: zoning; labeling of caloric and other nutritional information on menu boards, advertising and food packaging; the preparation and sale of food; employer/employee relationships, including minimum wage requirements, overtime, mandatory paid and unpaid leave, working and safety conditions, and citizenship requirements; health care; and federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination and laws regulating the design and operation of, and access to, facilities, such as the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990.
In the event that legislation having a negative impact on our business is adopted, it could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. For example, substantial increases in the minimum wage or state or federal unemployment taxes could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. Local zoning or building codes or regulations could cause substantial delays in our ability to build and open new restaurants. Any failure to obtain and maintain required licenses, permits and approvals could also adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
Federal, state and local environmental regulations relating to the use, storage, discharge, emission and disposal of hazardous materials could expose us to liabilities which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
We are subject to a variety of federal, state and local environmental regulations relating to the use, storage, discharge, emission and disposal of hazardous substances or other regulated materials, release of pollutants into the air, soil and water, and the remediation of contaminated sites.
Failure to comply with environmental laws could result in the imposition of fines or penalties, restrictions on operations by governmental agencies or courts of law, as well as investigatory or remedial liabilities and claims for alleged personal injury or damages to property or natural resources. Some environmental laws impose strict, and under some circumstances joint and several, liability for costs of investigation and remediation of contaminated sites on current and prior owners or operators of the sites, as well as those entities that send regulated materials to the sites. We cannot assure you that we have been or will be at all times in complete compliance with such laws, regulations and permits. Therefore, our costs of complying with current and future environmental, health and safety laws could have a material adverse effect our results of operations and financial condition.
We are subject to all of the risks associated with leasing property subject to long-term, non-cancelable leases.
The leases for our restaurant locations (except for certain acquired restaurants which have an underlying lease term of less than 20 years) generally have initial terms of 20 years, and typically provide for renewal options in five year increments as well as for rent escalations. Generally, our leases are "net" leases, which require us to pay all of the costs of insurance, taxes, maintenance and utilities. Additional sites that we lease are likely to be subject to similar long-term, non-cancelable leases. We generally cannot cancel our leases. If an existing or future restaurant is not profitable, and we decide to close it, we may nonetheless be obligated to perform our monetary obligations under the applicable lease including, among other things, paying all amounts due for the balance of the lease term. In addition, as each of our leases expire, we may fail to negotiate renewals, either on commercially acceptable terms or any terms at all, which could cause us to close restaurants in desirable locations.
Security breaches of confidential credit card, consumer, employee and other material information as well as other threats to our technical systems may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Approximately half of our restaurant sales are by credit or debit cards. Other restaurants and retailers have experienced security breaches in which confidential or material information has been compromised. We devote significant resources to data encryption, network security and other measures to protect our systems and data, but these security measures cannot provide absolute security. We may become subject to lawsuits, fines or other proceedings for purportedly fraudulent transactions arising out of the actual or alleged theft of our guests' credit or
debit card or any other material information. Any such claim or proceeding, or any adverse publicity resulting from these allegations, may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
Our results of operations, financial condition and reputation may be impacted by information technology system failures or network disruptions.
We rely on information systems across our operations for point-of-sale processing in our restaurants, collection of cash, procurement and payment to suppliers, payment of payroll, financial reporting and other processes and procedures. Our ability to efficiently manage our business depends significantly on the reliability and capacity of these systems. We may be subject to information technology system failures and network disruptions caused by natural disasters, accidents, pandemics, power disruptions, telecommunications failures, acts of terrorism or war, computer viruses, physical or electronic break-ins, ransomware or other events or disruptions. System redundancy may be ineffective or inadequate, and our disaster recovery planning may not be sufficient for all eventualities which may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. While we maintain dedicated insurance coverage that, subject to policy terms and conditions and subject to a deductible, is designed to address certain aspects of cyber risks, such insurance coverage may be insufficient to cover all losses or all types of claims that may arise in the continually evolving area of cyber risk.
Carrols Corporation is currently a guarantor under 17 restaurant property leases from the time when Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc. ("Fiesta") was its subsidiary and any default under such property leases by Fiesta may result in substantial liabilities to us.
Fiesta, a former wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, was spun-off in 2012 to the Company's stockholders. Carrols Corporation currently is a guarantor under 17 Fiesta restaurant property leases, of which all except for one is still operating as of December 31, 2023. Eight of these guarantees are for leases with Pollo Operations, Inc, a wholly owned subsidiary of Fiesta, and nine of these guarantees are for leases with Texas Taco Cabana, L.P., an indirect subsidiary of Taco Cabana, Inc. (together with all direct and indirect subsidiaries, "Taco"). Taco was a wholly owned subsidiary of Fiesta until August 16, 2021 when Fiesta sold all of its outstanding capital stock of Taco Cabana, Inc. to YTC Enterprises, LLC, an affiliate of Yadav Enterprises, Inc. The Separation and Distribution Agreement entered into in connection with the spin-off among Carrols, Fiesta and us provides that the parties will cooperate and use their commercially reasonable efforts to obtain the release of such guarantees. Unless and until any such guarantees are released, Fiesta agrees to indemnify Carrols Corporation for any losses or liabilities or expenses that it may incur arising from or in connection with any such lease guarantees.
Risks Related to Our Common Stock
The market price of our common stock may be highly volatile or may decline regardless of our operating performance.
The trading price of our common stock may fluctuate substantially. The price of our common stock that will prevail in the market may be higher or lower than the price when you acquired our stock, depending on many factors, some of which are beyond our control. Broad market and industry factors may adversely affect the market price of our common stock, regardless of our actual operating performance. The fluctuations could cause a loss of all or part of an investment in our common stock.
Factors that could cause fluctuation in the trading price of our common stock may include, but are not limited to the following: price and volume fluctuations in the overall stock market from time to time; significant volatility in the market price and trading volume of companies generally or restaurant companies specifically; actual or anticipated variations in the earnings or operating results of our company or our competitors; actual or anticipated changes in financial estimates by us or by any securities analysts who might cover our stock or the stock of other companies in our industry; market conditions or trends in our industry and the economy as a whole; announcements by us or our competitors of significant acquisitions, strategic partnerships or divestitures and our ability to complete any such transaction; announcements of investigations or regulatory scrutiny of our operations or lawsuits filed against us; capital commitments; changes in accounting principles; additions or departures of key personnel; sales of our common stock, including sales of large blocks of our common stock or sales by our directors and officers; and events that affect BKC, PLK or any of our significant suppliers discussed above.
In addition, if the market for restaurant company stocks or the stock market in general experiences loss of investor confidence, the trading price of our common stock could decline for reasons unrelated to our business, results of operations or financial condition. The trading price of our common stock might also decline in reaction to events that affect other companies in our industry or related industries even if these events do not directly affect us.
In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a company's securities, class action securities litigation has often been brought against that company. Due to the potential volatility of our stock price, we may be the target of securities litigation in the future. Securities litigation could result in substantial costs and divert management's attention and resources from our business and could also require us to make substantial payments to satisfy judgments or to settle litigation.
The concentrated ownership of our capital stock by insiders may limit our stockholders' ability to influence corporate matters.
At December 31, 2023, our executive officers, directors, BKC and Burger King International, LLC (collectively, the "BKC Stockholders"), and Cambridge Franchise Holdings, LLC ("Cambridge Holdings") together beneficially owned approximately 39.7% of our common stock, giving effect to the conversion of the Series D Convertible Preferred Stock issued to the BKC Stockholders. As a result, our executive officers, directors, affiliates of the BKC Stockholders and Cambridge Holdings, if they act as a group, will be able to significantly influence matters that require approval by our stockholders, including the election of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions such as mergers and acquisitions. The BKC Stockholders and Cambridge Holdings each has two representatives on our Board of Directors, which has the authority to make decisions affecting our company and its capital structure, including the issuance of additional debt and the declaration of dividends. Each of the BKC Stockholders and Cambridge Holdings may have interests that differ from those of other stockholders and may vote in a way with which other stockholders disagree and which may be adverse to their interests. Corporate action might be taken even if other stockholders oppose them. This concentration of ownership might also have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control of the Company that other stockholders may view as beneficial, which could deprive our stockholders of an opportunity to receive a premium for their common stock as part of a sale of our company and might ultimately depress the market price of our common stock.
While we expect to pay regular quarterly cash dividends, there can be no assurance regarding whether or to what extent we will pay cash dividends on our common stock in the future.
We currently expect to pay regular quarterly cash dividends to holders of our common stock in the foreseeable future, including in the first quarter of 2024. However, there is no assurance that the Company will continue to pay future cash dividends. Any future cash dividends on our common stock will be determined at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend upon, among other things, our results of operations, financial condition and contractual restrictions, including the terms of the agreements governing our indebtedness. Our Senior Credit Facilities and the indenture governing our $290 million of 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029 (the "Notes") could limit, and the debt instruments that we may enter into in the future could limit, our ability to pay cash dividends to our stockholders.
If securities analysts do not publish research or reports about our business or if they downgrade our stock, the price of our stock could decline.
The trading market for our common stock will rely in part on the research and reports that industry or financial analysts publish about us or our business. We cannot assure you that these analysts will publish research or reports about us or that any analysts that do so will not discontinue publishing research or reports about us in the future. If one or more analysts who cover us downgrade our stock, our stock price could decline rapidly. If analysts do not publish reports about us or if one or more analysts cease coverage of our stock, we could lose visibility in the market, which in turn could cause our stock price to decline.
Provisions in our restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, as amended, or Delaware law might discourage, delay or prevent a change of control of our company or changes in our management and, therefore, depress the trading price of our common stock.
Delaware corporate law and our restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, as amended, contain provisions that could discourage, delay or prevent a change in control of our company or changes in our management that the stockholders of our company may deem advantageous. These provisions:
•require that special meetings of our stockholders be called only by our Board of Directors or certain of our officers, thus prohibiting our stockholders from calling special meetings;
•deny holders of our common stock cumulative voting rights in the election of directors, meaning that stockholders owning a majority of our outstanding shares of common stock will be able to elect all of our directors;
•authorize the issuance of "blank check" preferred stock that our Board could issue to dilute the voting and economic rights of our common stock and to discourage a takeover attempt;
•provide that approval of our Board of Directors or a supermajority of stockholders is necessary to make, alter or repeal our amended and restated bylaws and that approval of a supermajority of stockholders is necessary to amend, alter or change certain provisions of our restated certificate of incorporation;
•establish advance notice requirements for stockholder nominations for election to our Board or for proposing matters that can be acted upon by stockholders at stockholder meetings;
•divide our Board into three classes of directors, with each class serving a staggered 3-year term, which generally increases the difficulty of replacing a majority of the directors;
•provide that directors only may be removed for cause by a supermajority of our stockholders; and
•require that any action required or permitted to be taken by our stockholders must be effected at a duly called annual or special meeting of stockholders and may not be effected by any consent in writing.
Risks Related to Our Indebtedness
Our substantial indebtedness could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition.
As of December 31, 2023 we had $433.2 million of total indebtedness outstanding consisting of $290.1 million of Senior Notes due 2029, $133.4 million Term Loan B borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities and $9.8 million of finance lease liabilities. As of December 31, 2023 we had $204.0 million of revolving borrowing availability under our Senior Credit Facilities (after reserving $11.0 million for letters of credit issued under the Senior Credit Facilities, which included amounts for anticipated claims from our renewals of workers' compensation and other insurance policies).
As a result of our substantial indebtedness, a significant portion of our operating cash flow will be required to make payments of interest and principal on our outstanding indebtedness, and we may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations, or have future borrowings available under our Senior Credit Facilities, to enable us to repay our indebtedness, including the outstanding Term Loan B borrowings and the Notes, or to fund other liquidity needs.
Our substantial indebtedness could have important consequences to our stockholders. For example, it could:
•make it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to the Senior Credit Facilities, the Notes and our other debt;
•increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;
•require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our indebtedness and related interest, including indebtedness we may incur in the future, thereby reducing the availability of our cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes;
•restrict our ability to acquire additional restaurants;
•limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate;
•increase our cost of borrowing;
•place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that may have less debt; and
•limit our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, debt service requirements or general corporate purposes.
We expect to use cash flow from operations, our cash balances and revolving credit borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities to meet our current and future financial obligations, including funding our operations, debt service, possible future acquisitions and capital expenditures (including restaurant remodeling and new restaurant development). Our ability to make these payments depends on our future performance, which will be affected by financial, business, economic and other factors, many of which we cannot control. Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations in the future, which could result in our being unable to repay indebtedness, or to fund other liquidity needs. If we do not have sufficient liquidity, we may be forced to reduce or delay capital expenditures and restaurant acquisitions, sell assets, obtain additional debt or equity capital or restructure or refinance all or a portion of our debt, including our Senior Credit Facilities, and the Notes, on or before maturity. We cannot make any assurances that we will be able to accomplish any of these alternatives on terms acceptable to us, or at all. In addition, the terms of existing or future indebtedness, including the agreements for our Senior Credit Facilities, and the indenture governing the Notes, may limit our ability to pursue any of these alternatives.
Despite current indebtedness levels and restrictive covenants, we may still be able to incur more debt or make certain restricted payments, which could further exacerbate the risks described above.
We and our subsidiaries may be able to incur additional debt in the future, including debt that may be secured on a first or second lien basis. Although our Senior Credit Facilities contain restrictions on our ability to incur indebtedness, those restrictions are subject to a number of exceptions. In addition, if we are able to designate some of our restricted subsidiaries under the indenture governing the Notes as unrestricted subsidiaries, these unrestricted subsidiaries would be permitted to borrow beyond the limitations specified in the indenture governing the Notes and engage in other activities in which restricted subsidiaries may not engage. We could also consider investments in joint ventures or acquisitions, which may increase our indebtedness. Moreover, although our Senior Credit Facilities and the indenture governing our Notes contain restrictions on our ability to make restricted payments, including the declaration and payment of dividends, we are able to make such restricted payments under certain circumstances. Adding new debt to current debt levels or making restricted payments could intensify the related risks that we and our subsidiaries now face.
The agreements governing our debt restrict our ability to engage in some business and financial transactions and contain certain other restrictive terms.
Our debt agreements, such as our Senior Credit Facilities and the indenture governing the Notes restrict our ability in certain circumstances to, among other things: incur additional debt; pay dividends beyond a maximum amount and make other distributions on, redeem or repurchase, capital stock; make investments or other restricted payments; enter into transactions with affiliates; engage in sale and leaseback transactions; sell all, or substantially all, of our assets; create liens on assets to secure debt; or effect a consolidation or merger.
These covenants limit our operational flexibility and could prevent us from taking advantage of business opportunities as they arise, growing our business or competing effectively. In addition, our Senior Credit Facilities require us to meet a First Lien Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Senior Credit Facilities) if revolving credit borrowings exceed 35% of our aggregate borrowing capacity (as defined in the First Amendment to the Senior Credit Facilities). Our ability to meet this financial ratio and other tests can be affected by events beyond our control, and we cannot assure you that we will meet these tests. As of December 31, 2023 there were no borrowings outstanding and $11.0 million of letters of credit issued under the Revolving Credit Facility. As this did not exceed 35% of the aggregate amount of the maximum borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility, no First Lien Leverage Ratio calculation was required. However, if we had been subject to the First Lien Leverage Ratio, our First Lien Leverage Ratio was 0.65 to 1.00 as of December 31, 2023 which was below the required First Lien Leverage Ratio of 5.75 to 1.00.
A breach of any of these covenants or other provisions in our debt agreements could result in an event of default, which if not cured or waived, could result in such debt becoming immediately due and payable. This, in turn, could cause our other debt to become due and payable as a result of cross-acceleration provisions contained in
the agreements governing such other debt. In the event that some or all of our debt is accelerated and becomes immediately due and payable, we may not have the funds to repay, or the ability to refinance, such debt.
We may not have the funds necessary to satisfy all of our obligations under our Senior Credit Facilities, the Notes or other indebtedness in connection with certain change of control events.
Our Senior Credit Facilities provide that certain change of control events constitute an event of default. Such an event of default entitles the lenders thereunder to, among other things, cause all outstanding debt obligations under the Senior Credit Facilities to become due and payable and to proceed against the collateral securing such Senior Credit Facilities. Any event of default or acceleration of the Senior Credit Facilities will likely also cause a default under the terms of our other indebtedness.
In addition, upon the occurrence of specific kinds of change of control events, the indenture governing the Notes will require us to make an offer to repurchase all Notes that are then outstanding at 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest (and additional interest, if any) to the date of repurchase. However, it is possible that we will not have sufficient funds, or the ability to raise sufficient funds, at the time of the change of control to make the required repurchase of the Notes. In addition, restrictions under our Senior Credit Facilities may not allow us to repurchase the Notes upon a change of control. If we cannot refinance such debt or otherwise obtain a waiver from the holders of such debt, we will be prohibited from repurchasing the Notes, which will constitute an event of default under the indenture governing the Notes. Certain important corporate events, such as leveraged recapitalizations that would increase the level of our indebtedness, will not constitute a "Change of Control" under the indenture governing the Notes.
Risks Related to the Merger:
On January 16, 2024, we entered into the Merger Agreement with RBI and BK Cheshire Corp., a Delaware corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of RBI, pursuant to which Merger Sub will merge with and into us with us being the surviving corporation in the Merger as a wholly-owned subsidiary of RBI. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, each share of our common stock, par value $0.01 per share, outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time will, at the Effective Time, automatically be converted into the right to receive $9.55 in cash, without interest, subject to any required tax withholding.
The announcement and pendency of the proposed Merger may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
There are material uncertainties and risks associated with the proposed Merger, including the timing of the consummation of the Merger, which may adversely affect our business and ongoing operations, financial condition and results of operations, employees, customers, shareholders, other parties and business prospects and a failure to complete the Merger on the terms reflected in the Merger Agreement or at all could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, and stock price.
Failure to complete the Merger could negatively impact the price of our common stock, as well as our future business and financial results.
The Merger Agreement contains a number of conditions that must be satisfied or waived prior to the completion of the Merger, including stockholder approval and regulatory approval. We cannot assure you that all of the conditions to the Merger will be satisfied or waived on a timely basis. If the conditions to the Merger are not satisfied or waived on a timely basis, we may be unable to complete the Merger as quickly as expected or at all.
If the Merger is not completed, our ongoing business may be adversely affected as follows: (i) we may experience negative reactions from the financial markets, including negative impacts on the market price of our common stock; (ii) some of management’s attention will have been directed to the Merger instead of being directed to our own operations and the pursuit of other opportunities that could have been beneficial to us; (iii) the manner in which customers, suppliers and other third parties perceive us may be negatively impacted, which in turn could have an adverse effect on our business; (iv) we may experience negative reactions from employees; (v) we will have expended time and resources that could otherwise have been spent on our business; and (vi) we may be required, in certain circumstances, to pay a termination fee of $19 million, as provided in the Merger Agreement. In addition, any significant delay in consummating the Merger could have an adverse effect on our operating results and
adversely affect our relationships with customers and suppliers and would likely lead to a significant diversion of management and employee attention.
Additionally, in approving the Merger Agreement, a special transaction committee of independent and disinterested members of the our Board of Directors and our Board of Directors considered a number of factors and potential benefits, including the fact that the Merger consideration to be received by holders of common stock represented a 13.4% premium to the closing price of our common stock of $8.42 per share on January 12, 2024, the last full trading day before public announcement of the Merger Agreement. If the Merger is not completed, neither we nor the holders of our common stock will realize this benefit of the Merger. Moreover, we would also have nevertheless incurred substantial transaction-related fees and costs and the loss of management time and resources.
Our ability to complete the Merger is subject to certain closing conditions and the receipt of consents and approvals from government entities which may impose conditions that could adversely affect us or cause the Merger to be abandoned.
The Merger Agreement contains certain closing conditions, including, among others, the approval by the affirmative vote of the holders of (a) a majority of the voting power of our outstanding capital stock entitled to vote on the Merger to adopt and approve the Merger Agreement and (b) a majority of our outstanding common stock held by our unaffiliated stockholders to adopt and approve the Merger Agreement, and the absence of any injunction or similar order issued by any government entity with jurisdiction over any party to the Merger Agreement or law that has the effect of prohibiting the consummation of the Merger or that makes consummation of the Merger illegal. The obligation of each party to consummate the Merger is also conditioned upon the other party’s representations and warranties being true and correct to the extent specified in the Merger Agreement and the other party having performed in all material respects its obligations under the Merger Agreement. We cannot assure you that the various closing conditions will be satisfied or will not result in the abandonment or delay of the Merger.
In addition, before the Merger may be completed, regulatory approval under the HSR Act must be obtained (the “Antitrust Approval”). The regulatory review under the HSR Act may impose conditions on the granting of such approval. Such conditions and the process of obtaining Antitrust Approval could have the effect of delaying completion of the Merger or of imposing additional costs or limitations on the combined company following the completion of the Merger, and the conditions may result in the failure of a closing condition under the Merger Agreement. The Antitrust Approval may not be received at all or may not be received in a timely fashion.
Expenses related to the pending Merger are significant and will adversely affect our operating results.
We have incurred and expect to continue to incur significant expenses in connection with the pending Merger, including legal and investment banking fees. We expect these costs to have an adverse effect on our operating results. If the Merger is not consummated, we may under certain circumstances be required to pay to RBI a termination fee of $19 million. Our financial position and results of operations would be adversely affected if we were required to pay the termination fee.
We are subject to business uncertainties and contractual restrictions while the Merger is pending, which could adversely affect our business.
The Merger Agreement requires us to operate in the ordinary course of business and restricts us, without the consent of RBI, from taking certain specified actions agreed by the parties to be outside the ordinary course of business until the pending Merger occurs or the Merger Agreement terminates. These restrictions may prevent us from pursuing otherwise attractive business opportunities and making other changes to our business before completion of the Merger or, if the Merger is not completed, termination of the Merger Agreement. In addition, matters relating to the Merger (including integration planning) will require substantial commitments of time and resources by our management, which could divert their time and attention.
Litigation could result in substantial costs and may delay or prevent the Merger from being completed.
While no lawsuits are currently pending in connection with the Merger, we (along with our directors and officers) may be named in lawsuits to enjoin us from proceeding with or consummating the Merger, or seeking to have the Merger rescinded after its consummation. Defending against such claims, even those without merit, could result in substantial costs and divert management’s time and resources, which may negatively impact our financial condition and adversely affect our business and results of operations. The ultimate resolution of any such lawsuit
cannot be predicted, and an adverse ruling in any such lawsuit may cause the Merger to be delayed or not to be completed, which could cause us not to realize some or all of the anticipated benefits of the Merger.
Additionally, one of the conditions to the closing of the Merger is the absence of any injunction or similar order issued by government entity with jurisdiction over any party to the Merger Agreement or law that has the effect of prohibiting the consummation of the Merger or that makes consummation of the Merger illegal. Accordingly, if any lawsuit is successful in obtaining an injunction prohibiting the consummation of the Merger, then such injunction may prevent the Merger from becoming effective, or delay its becoming effective within the expected time frame.
Uncertainties associated with the Merger may cause a loss of management and other key employees and disrupt our business relationships, which could adversely affect our business.
Uncertainty about the effect of the Merger on our employees, customers, distributors, suppliers and strategic partners may have an adverse effect on our business. These uncertainties may impair our ability to attract, retain and motivate key personnel until the Merger is completed and for a period of time thereafter. Employee retention may be particularly challenging during the pendency of the Merger. If key employees depart and as we face additional uncertainties relating to the Merger, our business relationships may be subject to disruption. If key employees depart or if our existing business relationships suffer, our results of operations may be adversely affected. The adverse effects of such disruptions could be further exacerbated by any delay in the completion of the Merger.
The Merger Agreement contains provisions that could discourage a potential competing acquirer of us.
The Merger Agreement contains provisions that make it more difficult for us to sell our business to a party other than RBI. We agreed to a period which commenced on the date of the Merger Agreement and ended February 15, 2024, during which we and our representatives were permitted to solicit third-party acquisition proposals and share information with potential bidders. After this period, we were required to cease discussions with other parties regarding a transaction except for those that had made a bona fide written proposal that the Special Committee had determined in good faith, after consultation with its financial advisor and outside legal advisor, constituted or was reasonably likely to result in a proposal superior to the Merger Agreement.
Beginning February 15, 2024, we became subject to customary “no-shop” restrictions on our ability to solicit alternative acquisition proposals from third parties and to provide information to, and participate in discussion and engage in negotiations with, third parties regarding any alternative acquisition proposals, subject to a customary “fiduciary out” provision. In addition, before our Board of Directors withdraws, qualifies or modifies its recommendation on the Merger or terminates the Merger Agreement to enter into a third-party acquisition proposal, RBI generally has an opportunity to offer to modify the terms of the Merger. In some circumstances, upon termination of the Merger Agreement, we will be required to pay a termination fee of $19 million.
These provisions could discourage a potential third-party acquirer that might have an interest in acquiring all or a significant portion of us from considering or proposing that acquisition, even if the acquirer was prepared to pay consideration with a higher per share cash or market value than the market value proposed to be received or realized in the Merger, or might otherwise result in a potential third-party acquirer proposing to pay a lower price to our stockholders than they might otherwise have proposed to pay due to the added expense of the termination fee that may become payable in certain circumstances.
If the Merger Agreement is terminated and we decide to seek another business combination, we may not be able to negotiate or consummate a transaction with another party on terms comparable to, or better than, the terms of the Merger Agreement.
All of the matters described above, alone or in combination, could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and stock price.

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ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.

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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
As of December 31, 2023, we owned eleven and leased 1,071 restaurant properties, including 29 co-branded locations. In addition, we owned five and leased nine non-operating properties as of December 31, 2023.
We typically enter into leases (including renewal options) ranging from 20 to 40 years. The average remaining term for all leases, including options, was approximately 24.8 years at December 31, 2023. Generally, we have been able to renew leases upon or prior to their expiration at prevailing market rates, although there can be no assurance that this will continue to occur.
We believe that we generally will be able to renew at commercially reasonable rates a lease whose term expires prior to the expiration of the Burger King franchise agreement associated with the location, although there can be no assurance that this will occur.
Most leases require us to pay utility and water charges and real estate taxes. Certain leases also require contingent rentals based upon a percentage of gross sales of the particular restaurant that exceed specified minimums. In some of our shopping center locations, we are also required to pay certain other charges such as a pro rata share of the shopping center's common area maintenance costs, insurance and security costs.
In addition to the restaurant locations set forth under Item 1. "Business-Restaurant Locations", we own a building with approximately 25,300 square feet at 968 James Street, Syracuse, New York, which houses our executive offices, most of our administrative operations for our Burger King restaurants and one of our regional support offices. We also lease nine small regional offices that support the management of our Burger King restaurants, two offices in Tennessee, and two smaller administrative offices in Syracuse, NY that support administrative operations.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Litigation. We are involved in various litigation matters and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business. Based on our currently available information, we do not believe that the ultimate resolution of any of these matters will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial statements.

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ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
None.
PART II

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ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Our common stock is traded on The NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol "TAST". On March 1, 2024, there were 57,384,646 shares of our common stock outstanding held by 477 holders of record. The number of record holders was determined from the records of our transfer agent and does not include beneficial owners of our common stock whose shares are held in the names of various securities brokers, dealers and registered clearing agencies.
Effective August 12, 2021, the Board declared a special cash dividend amounting to $0.41 per share on all issued and outstanding shares of common stock, including common stock issuable on the conversion of our Series B Convertible Preferred Stock. The special cash dividend of $24.9 million was paid on October 5, 2021 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on August 25, 2021.
Effective November 9, 2023, the Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.02 per share on all issued and outstanding shares of the Company's common stock, including common stock issuable on the conversion of our Series D Preferred Stock. The cash dividend of $1.3 million was paid on December 15, 2023 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 21, 2023.
Effective February 22, 2024, the Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.02 per share on all issued and outstanding shares of the Company's common stock, including common stock issuable on the conversion of our Series D Preferred Stock, that will be paid on April 5, 2024 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on March 11, 2024.
We currently expect to pay regular quarterly cash dividends to holders of our common stock in the foreseeable future. However, there is no assurance that the Company will continue to pay future cash dividends. Any future dividends on our common stock will be determined at the discretion of our Board and will depend upon, among other things, our results of operations, financial condition and contractual restrictions, including the terms of the agreements governing our indebtedness. Our Senior Credit Facilities and the indenture governing the Notes limit, and debt instruments that we and our subsidiaries may enter into in the future may limit, our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders.
Stock Performance Graph
The following graph compares from December 31, 2018 the cumulative total stockholder return on our common stock relative to the cumulative total returns of The NASDAQ Composite Index and a peer group, the S&P SmallCap 600 Restaurants Index. We have elected to use the S&P SmallCap 600 Restaurant Index in compiling our stock performance graph because we believe the S&P SmallCap 600 Restaurant Index represents a comparison to competitors with similar market capitalization as us. The graph assumes an investment of $100 in our common stock and each index on December 31, 2018.
* $100 invested on 12/31/2018 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends.
12/31/2018 12/31/2019 12/31/2020 12/31/2021 12/31/2022 12/31/2023
Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. $ 100.00 $ 71.65 $ 63.82 $ 33.13 $ 15.22 $ 88.45
NASDAQ Composite $ 100.00 $ 136.69 $ 198.10 $ 242.03 $ 163.28 $ 236.17
S&P SmallCap 600 Restaurants $ 100.00 $ 112.39 $ 142.59 $ 136.57 $ 108.84 $ 132.12
Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer
In August 2023, the Company's Board of Directors approved an extension of the Company's stock repurchase plan (the "Repurchase Program") with approximately $11.0 million of its original $25 million in capacity remaining. The authorization will expire on August 2, 2025, unless terminated earlier by the Board of Directors. Purchases under the Repurchase Program may be made from time to time in open market transactions at prevailing market prices or in privately negotiated transactions (including, without limitation, the use of Rule 10b5-1 plans) in compliance with applicable federal securities laws, including Rule 10b-18 under the Exchange Act. The Company has no obligation to repurchase stock under the Repurchase Program, and the timing, actual number and value of shares purchased will depend on the Company's stock price, trading volume, general market and economic conditions, and other factors.

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
ITEM 6. [RESERVED]

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Our fiscal years consist of 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Sunday closest to December 31. The fiscal years ended December 31, 2023, January 1, 2023 and January 2, 2022 each contained 52 weeks.
Introduction
We are a holding company and conduct all of our operations through our direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries Carrols Corporation and New CFH, LLC and their wholly-owned subsidiaries, and have no assets other than the shares of capital stock of Carrols Holdco, Inc. and New CFH, LLC, our direct wholly-owned subsidiaries. The following "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" ("MD&A") is written to help the reader understand our company. The MD&A is provided as a supplement to, and should be read in conjunction with, our Consolidated Financial Statements appearing elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The overview provides our perspective on the individual sections of MD&A, which include the following:
Company Overview-a general description of our business and our key financial measures.
Recent and Future Events Affecting Our Results of Operations-a description of recent events that affect, and future events that may affect, our results of operations.
Results of Operations-an analysis of our consolidated results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2023, and January 1, 2023, including a review of the material items and known trends and uncertainties. See Item 7 of our 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K for an analysis of our consolidated results of operations for the years ended January 1, 2023 and January 2, 2022.
Liquidity and Capital Resources-an analysis of our cash flows, including capital expenditures, changes in capital resources and known trends that may impact liquidity.
Application of Critical Accounting Estimates-an overview of accounting policies requiring critical judgments and estimates.
New accounting pronouncements-a discussion of new accounting pronouncements, dates of implementation, and the impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations, if any.
Company Overview
Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, "Carrols Restaurant Group", the "Company", "we", "our" or "us") is one of the largest restaurant companies in the United States and has been operating restaurants for more than 60 years. We are the largest Burger King franchisee in the United States, based on number of restaurants, and have operated Burger King restaurants since 1976. As of December 31, 2023 we operated, as a franchisee, a total of 1,082 restaurants in 23 states under the trade names of Burger King and Popeyes. This included 1,022 Burger King restaurants in 23 Northeastern, Midwestern, Southcentral and Southeastern states and 60 Popeyes restaurants in six Southeastern states.
Any reference to "BKC" refers to Burger King Company LLC (previously Burger King Corporation) and its indirect parent company, Restaurant Brands International Inc. ("RBI"). Any reference to "PLK" refers to Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. and its indirect parent company, RBI.
The following is an overview of the key financial measures discussed in our results of operations:
◦Restaurant sales consists of food and beverage sales at our restaurants, net of sales discounts and refunds and excluding sales tax. Restaurant sales are influenced by changes in comparable restaurant sales, our franchisors' marketing and promotional activities, menu price changes, guest traffic, new restaurant development, restaurant acquisitions and closures of restaurants. Comparable restaurant sales reflect the change in year-over-year sales for a comparable restaurant base. Restaurants we acquire are included in comparable restaurant sales after they have been owned for 12 months and newly developed restaurants are included in comparable restaurant sales after they have been open for 15 months. Restaurants are excluded from comparable restaurant sales during extended periods of closure, which primarily occur due to restaurant remodeling activity. For comparative purposes, where applicable, the calculation of the changes in comparable restaurant sales is based either on a 53-week or 52-week year and compares against the respective 52-week prior period.
◦Food, beverage, and packaging costs consists of food, beverage and packaging costs and delivery commissions, less purchase discounts and vendor rebates. Food, beverage, and packaging costs are generally influenced by changes in commodity costs, the mix of items sold, the level of promotional discounting, menu price changes, the effectiveness of our restaurant-level controls to manage food and paper costs, and the relative contribution of delivery sales.
◦Restaurant wages and related expenses include all restaurant management and hourly productive labor costs and related benefits, employer payroll taxes and restaurant-level bonuses. Payroll and related benefits are subject to inflation, including minimum wage increases as well as competitive wage increases required to adequately staff our restaurants and increased costs for health insurance, workers' compensation insurance and federal and state unemployment insurance.
◦Restaurant rent expense includes straight-lined lease costs and variable rent on our restaurant leases characterized as operating leases.
◦Other restaurant operating expenses include all other restaurant-level operating costs, the major components of which are royalty expenses paid to BKC and PLK, utilities, repairs and maintenance, operating supplies, real estate taxes and credit card fees.
◦Advertising expense includes advertising payments to BKC and PLK based on a percentage of sales as required under our franchise and operating agreements and additional local marketing and promotional expenses in certain of our markets.
◦General and administrative expenses are comprised primarily of salaries and expenses associated with corporate and administrative functions that support the development and operations of our restaurants, legal, auditing and other professional fees, acquisition costs and stock-based compensation expense.
◦EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income (Loss) are non-GAAP financial measures. EBITDA represents net income (loss) before income taxes, interest expense, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA adjusted to exclude impairment and other lease charges, stock-based compensation expense, restaurant pre-opening costs, executive transition, non-recurring litigation and other professional expenses, gain on extinguishment of debt and other income, net. Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA represents income (loss) from operations as adjusted to exclude general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, impairment and other lease charges, restaurant pre-opening costs and other income, net. Adjusted Net Income (Loss) represents net income (loss) as adjusted, net of tax, to exclude impairment and other lease charges, restaurant pre-opening costs, executive transition, non-recurring litigation and other professional expenses, other income, net, gain on extinguishment of debt and the change in the valuation allowance for deferred taxes.
◦We are presenting Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income (Loss) because we believe that they provide a more meaningful comparison than EBITDA and net income (loss) of our core business operating results, as well as with those of other similar companies. Additionally, we present Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA because it excludes restaurant pre-opening costs, other income, net, and the impact of general and administrative expenses such as salaries and expenses associated with corporate and administrative functions that support the development and operations of our restaurants, legal, auditing and other professional fees. Although these costs are not directly related to restaurant-level operations, these costs are necessary for the profitability of our restaurants. Management believes that Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income (Loss), when viewed with our results of operations in accordance with U.S. GAAP and the accompanying reconciliations on page 50, provide useful information about operating performance and period-over-period growth, and provide additional information that is useful for evaluating the operating performance of our core business without regard to potential distortions. Additionally, management believes that Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA permit investors to gain an understanding of the factors and trends affecting our ongoing cash earnings, from which capital investments are made and debt is serviced.
However, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income (Loss) are not measures of financial performance or liquidity under U.S. GAAP and, accordingly, should not be considered as alternatives to net income (loss), income (loss) from operations or cash flow from operating activities as indicators of operating performance or liquidity. Also, these measures may not be comparable to similarly titled captions of other companies. For the reconciliation between Net Income (Loss) to EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and the reconciliation of income (loss) from operations to Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA, see page 50.
EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income (Loss) have important limitations as analytical tools. These limitations include the following:
◦EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA do not reflect our capital expenditures, future requirements for capital expenditures or contractual commitments to purchase capital equipment;
◦EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA do not reflect the interest expense or the cash requirements necessary to service principal or interest payments on our debt;
◦Although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets that we currently depreciate and amortize will likely have to be replaced in the future, and EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA do not reflect the cash required to fund such replacements; and
◦EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income (Loss) do not reflect the effect of earnings or charges resulting from matters that our management does not consider to be indicative of our ongoing operations. However, some of these charges (such as impairment and other lease charges, litigation costs and changes in the valuation allowance for deferred taxes) have recurred and may reoccur.
◦Depreciation and amortization primarily includes the depreciation of fixed assets, including equipment, owned buildings and leasehold improvements utilized in our restaurants, the amortization of franchise rights from our acquisitions of restaurants and the amortization of franchise fees paid to BKC and PLK.
◦Impairment and other lease charges include charges resulting from the following circumstances:
◦For property and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, a potential impairment charge is evaluated whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of these assets may not be fully recoverable. If an indicator of impairment exists, an estimate of the aggregate undiscounted cash flows from the acquired restaurants is compared to the respective carrying value of franchise rights for each acquisition. If an asset is determined to be impaired, the loss is measured by the excess of the carrying amount of the asset over its fair value.
◦For indefinite lived intangible assets including goodwill, a potential impairment charge is evaluated whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment charges are determined by a comparison of the carrying value of a reporting unit to its fair value.
◦For restaurant closures prior to their lease or franchise end dates, lease charges are recorded for our obligations under the related leases and franchise agreements for closed locations that are not otherwise recoverable.
◦Interest expense consists of interest expense associated with our Term B Loans under our Senior Credit Facilities, our 5.875% Senior Notes Due 2029 (the "Notes"), our revolving credit borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities, finance lease liabilities, amortization of deferred financing costs, amortization of original issue discount, and payments and receipts made in connection with our interest rate swap arrangement.
Recent and Future Events Affecting our Results of Operations
Merger Agreement
On January 16, 2024, we entered into the Merger Agreement with RBI, and BK Cheshire Corp, a Delaware corporation and subsidiary of RBI., providing for the merger of Merger Sub with and into the Company, with the Company continuing as the surviving corporation.
The Special Committee and the Board unanimously adopted resolutions recommending that the Board approve and adopt the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby and agreeing to recommend that the Unaffiliated Company Stockholders (as defined in the Merger Agreement) adopt the Merger Agreement. Thereafter, the Board unanimously approved the Merger Agreement and agreed to recommend that the stockholders of the Company adopt the Merger Agreement.
At the Effective Time:
•each share of Carrols Common Stock outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than shares of Carrols Common Stock that are (A)(1) held by the Company and its Subsidiaries; (2) owned by RBI or Merger Sub; or (3) Owned Carrols Shares, or (B) issued and outstanding as of immediately prior to the Effective Time and held by stockholders of the Company who have neither voted in favor of the Merger nor consented thereto in writing and who have properly and validly exercised their statutory rights of appraisal in respect of such shares of Carrols Common Stock in accordance with Section 262 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware) will be cancelled and extinguished and automatically converted into the right to receive cash in an amount equal to $9.55, without interest thereon;
•each Owned Carrols Share outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time will remain issued and outstanding as a share of common stock of the surviving corporation; and
•each share of Company's Series D Preferred Stock outstanding as of immediately prior to the Effective Time will remain issued and outstanding as a share of Series D Preferred Stock of the surviving corporation, on the terms set forth in the Series D Certificate of Designation.
If the Merger is consummated, the Carrols Common Stock will be delisted from The NASDAQ Global Market and deregistered under the Exchange Act, as promptly as practicable following the Effective Time.
The Merger Agreement includes a 30-day “go shop” period that allowed the Company to affirmatively solicit alternative proposals from interested parties.
Consummation of the Merger is subject to certain conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, including, but not limited to, the: (A) affirmative vote of the holders of (i) a majority of all of the outstanding shares of Company capital stock to adopt the Merger Agreement and (ii) a majority of all of the outstanding shares of Carrols Common Stock held by the Unaffiliated Company Stockholders to adopt the Merger Agreement; (B) expiration or termination of any waiting periods (and any extensions thereof) applicable to the consummation of the Merger under the HSR Act; (C) absence of any law or order in the United States restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the Merger; and (D) absence of a Company Material Adverse Effect (as defined in the Merger Agreement).
The Merger Agreement contains certain termination rights for the Company, on the one hand, and the Buyer Parties, on the other hand. Upon termination of the Merger Agreement under specified circumstances, the Company will be required to pay RBI a termination fee of $19,000,000 (or, if termination occurs in certain circumstances prior to the No-Shop Period Start Date (as defined in the Merger Agreement), $9,500,000). In addition to the foregoing termination rights, and subject to certain limitations, the Company or RBI may terminate the Merger Agreement if the Merger is not consummated by November 30, 2024.
Each of RBI, Merger Sub and the Company made customary representations and warranties in the Merger Agreement and agreed to customary covenants, including, among others, a covenant on the part of the Company regarding the operation of the business of the Company and its Subsidiaries prior to the consummation of the Merger. The Merger Agreement also provides that the Company, on the one hand, or the Buyer Parties, on the other hand, may specifically enforce the obligations under the Merger Agreement, including the obligation to consummate the Merger if the conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement are satisfied.
BKC's "Reclaim the Flame" Plan
In September 2022, BKC announced its "Reclaim the Flame" plan, which was developed in collaboration with its franchisees to accelerate sales growth and drive restaurant-level profitability. The plan includes Burger King investing $400 million through 2024, comprised of $150 million in advertising and digital investments to "Fuel the Flame" and $250 million for a "Royal Reset" involving investments in restaurant technology, kitchen equipment, building enhancements and high-quality remodels and relocations. Under BKC's "Royal Reset" program, BKC will make certain contributions towards franchisee remodel costs, which increase in value if BKC owns the property and/or if the franchisee agrees to pay higher royalty rates over the 20-year franchise term renewal. The "Royal Reset" program also includes a $50 million co-investment with its franchisees in a restaurant refresh program, whereby BKC will match certain restaurant improvement spending by franchisees by providing them with restaurant technology equipment at no cost.
We have entered into the following agreements related to BKC's "Reclaim the Flame" plan:
•In the third quarter of 2022, we entered into an agreement with BKC in connection with their "Reclaim the Flame" investment plan. Pursuant to this initiative, BKC has agreed to fund $120 million in additional advertising expenditures over the period October 1, 2022 through December 31, 2024. Following the investment period in 2023 and 2024, participating franchisees, including us, have agreed to increase our advertising fund contributions by 50 basis points through 2026 if a profitability threshold for the Burger King system is met for the full fiscal year 2024, and further through 2028 if a secondary profitability threshold is met for the full fiscal year 2026.
•In the second quarter of 2023, we entered into an agreement and related documentation with BKC in connection with their "Royal Reset" program that will provide us with approximately $12.2 million of restaurant technology equipment, conditioned upon us completing certain repairs, replacements and improvements to our restaurant assets at a cost of approximately $12.2 million by March 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2023, approximately $8.4 million in equipment has been received by us related to this arrangement and $13.1 million in qualified repairs, replacements and improvements have been completed by us. As of December 31, 2023, 66 restaurants have kiosks installed, which we expect will drive sales with higher average checks and enhance the guest experience.
•In the third quarter of 2023, we entered into an agreement with BKC to remodel 64 restaurants in total between 2023 and 2024 in connection with their "Reclaim the Flame" remodel incentive program. We expect approximately one-half of the projects we begin in 2024 to be in BKC's latest "Sizzle" restaurant image. The new “Sizzle” format includes enhancements to guest experience through digital improvements, updated drive-thru and pick-up, as well as signature design elements We completed the first ground-up "Sizzle" restaurant in the Burger King system in October 2023 in Marion, North Carolina.
BKC Kiosk Agreement
In December 2023, we entered into an agreement with BKC under which BKC has agreed to provide us with self-order kiosks conditioned upon us purchasing additional self-order kiosks for our restaurants beyond the restaurant technology investments as part of BKC's Royal Reset agreements. Among other things, under this agreement, if we provide written notice to BKC by March 31, 2024 to purchase kiosks worth $1.7 million, BKC will provide us with an additional $2.5 million of kiosks for use in our restaurants, for a total of $4.2 million of kiosks. These kiosks must be installed by September 30, 2024. We may also elect to further expand kiosk installation and if, by written notice to BKC no later than May 31, 2024, we agree to purchase up to an additional $2.5 million of kiosks, BKC will provide us with additional kiosks worth up to $3.7 million for use in our restaurants for a total additional amount of up to $6.2 million of kiosks. These additional kiosks must be installed by December 31, 2024.
Capital Expenditures
During 2023, we opened five new Burger King restaurants and remodeled five Burger King restaurants. In 2022, we opened six new Burger King restaurants and remodeled nine Burger King restaurants. We continue to review on an ongoing basis our future development and remodel plans in relation to our available capital resources, supply chain availability and our return on investment. In 2023, we entered into an agreement with BKC where we agreed to remodel 64 restaurants in total between 2023 and 2024, which will increase our levels of capital expenditures compared to 2022 and 2023.
Cash Dividends
Effective August 12, 2021, the Board declared a $0.41 per share special cash dividend on all issued and outstanding shares of common stock, including common stock issuable on the conversion of our Series B Convertible Preferred Stock. The special cash dividend of $24.9 million was paid on October 5, 2021 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on August 25, 2021.
Effective November 9, 2023, the Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.02 per share on all issued and outstanding shares of our common stock, including common stock issuable on the conversion of our Series D Preferred Stock. The first quarterly cash dividend of $1.3 million was paid on December 15, 2023 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 21, 2023.
Effective February 22, 2024, the Board declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.02 per share on all issued and outstanding shares of our common stock, including common stock issuable on the conversion of our Series D Preferred Stock, that will be paid on April 5, 2024 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on March 11, 2024.
Area Development and Remodeling Agreement
The Company, Carrols Corporation, Carrols LLC, and BKC entered into an Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement on January 4, 2021 (the "Amended ADA"). Under the Amended ADA, Carrols LLC has agreed to open, build and operate a total of 50 new Burger King restaurants, 80% of which must be in Kentucky, Tennessee and Indiana. This includes four Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2021 (which were completed in 2021), 10 additional Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2022 (of which six were completed in 2022), 12 additional Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2023 (of which three were completed in 2023), 12 additional Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2024 and 12 additional Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2025. There is a 90-day cure period to meet the required restaurant development each development year. We are in ongoing discussions with BKC regarding its development plans, and do not believe the penalties, if any, associated with not meeting these commitments will be material.
In addition, pursuant to the Amended ADA, BKC granted Carrols LLC franchise pre-approval to build new Burger King restaurants or acquire Burger King restaurants from Burger King franchisees with respect to 500 Burger King restaurants in the aggregate in (i) Kentucky, Tennessee and Indiana (excluding certain geographic areas in Indiana) and (ii) (a) 16 states, which include Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont and Virginia (subject to certain exceptions for certain limited geographic areas within certain states) and (b) any other geographic locations that Carrols LLC enters after the commencement date of the Amended ADA pursuant to BKC procedures subject to certain limitations. This pre-approval may be suspended as long as we are not in compliance with the development commitments described above.
Issuance of Notes and Amendments to our Senior Credit Facilities
Senior Credit Facilities. On April 30, 2019, we entered into senior secured credit facilities in an aggregate principal amount of $550.0 million, consisting of (i) a Term Loan B facility in an aggregate principal amount of $425.0 million (the "Term Loan B Facility") maturing on April 30, 2026 and (ii) a revolving credit facility (including a sub-facility of $35.0 million for standby letters of credit) in an aggregate principal amount of $125.0 million maturing on April 30, 2024 (the "Revolving Credit Facility" and, together with the Term Loan B Facility, the "Senior Credit Facilities"). As of December 31, 2023 the Senior Credit Facilities, as amended, provide for an aggregate maximum commitment available for borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility of $215.0 million and the Revolving Credit Facility matures on January 29, 2026.
As of December 31, 2023, there were no revolving credit borrowings outstanding and $11.0 million of letters of credit issued under the Revolving Credit Facility. After reserving for issued letters of credit and outstanding revolving credit borrowings, $204.0 million was available for revolving credit borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility at December 31, 2023.
During the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company made a voluntary prepayment of $30.0 million on the outstanding principal amount of its Term Loan B borrowings under its Senior Credit Facilities, which resulted in a loss of $0.3 million on debt extinguishment.
Senior Notes due 2029. On June 28, 2021, we issued $300.0 million principal amount of 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029 in a private placement. During the fourth quarter of 2023, we repurchased $9.9 million of our outstanding Notes in the open market, resulting in a gain on debt extinguishment of $1.1 million.
Interest Rate Swap Agreement
In March 2020 we entered into an interest rate swap agreement with certain of our lenders under the Senior Credit Facilities to mitigate the risk of increases in the variable interest rate related to term loan borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities. The agreement matures on February 28, 2025. The interest rate swap originally fixed the interest rate on 50% of outstanding borrowings under the Senior Credit Facility at 0.915% plus the applicable margin in our Senior Credit Facilities with the difference settled monthly. The original notional amount of $220.0 million was reduced to $120.0 million in 2021 and the fixed rate was changed in 2022 from 0.915% plus the applicable margin to 0.854% plus the applicable margin in connection with the transition from LIBOR to SOFR as the benchmark rate on our Senior Credit Facilities.
We received $5.0 million and net $1.0 million to settle the interest rate swap during the year ended December 31, 2023, and January 1, 2023, respectively. We expect to recognize net gains totaling $4.9 million related to the interest rate swap agreement during the next twelve months.
Stock Repurchase Program
On August 2, 2019, our Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase plan (the "Repurchase Program") under which we may repurchase up to $25 million of our outstanding common stock. The authorization became effective August 2, 2019.
In August 2023, the Company's Board of Directors approved an extension of the Company's Repurchase Program with approximately $11.0 million of its original $25.0 million in capacity remaining which is set to expire on August 2, 2025, unless terminated earlier by the Board of Directors. Purchases under the Repurchase Program may be made from time to time in open market transactions at prevailing market prices or in privately negotiated transactions (including, without limitation, the use of Rule 10b5-1 plans) in compliance with applicable federal securities laws, including Rule 10b-18 under the Exchange Act.
As of December 31, 2023, $11.0 million was available to repurchase shares under the Repurchase Program. We have no obligation to repurchase additional shares of stock under the Repurchase Program, and the timing, actual number and value of shares purchased will depend on our stock price, trading volume, general market and economic conditions and other factors.
Restaurant Closures
We evaluate the performance of our restaurants on an ongoing basis including an assessment of the current and future operating results of each restaurant in relation to its cash flow and future occupancy costs and, with regard to franchise agreement renewals, the cost of required capital improvements. We may elect to close restaurants based on these evaluations.
In 2023, we permanently closed five Burger King restaurants, including one restaurant relocated within its trade area, and five Popeyes restaurants. We currently anticipate less than five restaurant closures in 2024, excluding any restaurants being relocated within their trade area.
Our determination of whether to close restaurants in the future is subject to further evaluation and may change. We may incur lease charges in the future from closures of underperforming restaurants prior to the expiration of their contractual lease term. We do not believe that the future impact on our results of operations due to restaurant closures will be material, although there can be no assurance in this regard.
Effect of Minimum Wage Increases
We are subject to minimum wage requirements in the states and municipalities we operate in, and periodically these municipalities have and may continue to increase these minimum wage rates. Notably, for our restaurant portfolio as of December 31, 2023:
•124 restaurants in New York will have minimum wage rates increase to $15.50 per hour as of January 1, 2025 and $16.00 per hour as of January 1, 2026;
•115 restaurants in Ohio had minimum wage rates increase to $10.45 per hour as of January 1, 2024;
•67 restaurants in Virginia will have minimum wage rates increase to $13.50 per hour as of January 1, 2025 and $15.00 per hour as of January 1, 2026;
•56 restaurants in Michigan had minimum wage rates increase to $10.33 per hour as of January 1, 2024 and will further increase to $10.56 per hour as of January 1, 2025, $10.86 per hour as of January 1, 2026 and $11.04 per hour as of January 1, 2027;
•16 restaurants in Illinois had minimum wage rates increase to $14.00 per hour as of January 1, 2024 and will increase to $15.00 per hour on January 1, 2025;
•in Maryland, 15 restaurants had minimum wage rates increase to $15.00 per hour as of January 1, 2024, 11 restaurants had minimum wage rates increase to $16.60 per hour as of January 1, 2024, and three restaurants will increase to $16.70 per hour on July 1, 2024;
•and ten restaurants in New Jersey had minimum wage rates increase to $15.13 per hour as of January 1, 2024.
In many instances, we are already paying higher wage rate than the existing statutory minimum wage rates. Overall, we expect the impact from increases in hourly labor rates at our restaurants to be an increase of 3.2% for 2024, inclusive of normal merit increases as well as the impact from the statutory minimum wage rate increases described herein.
New York State has a Youth Jobs Program tax credit extending through 2027 from which we have received tax credits annually. We expect to receive approximately $0.7 million from New York State related to these credits for 2023 and 2024.
We typically attempt to offset the effects of wage inflation, at least in part, through periodic menu price increases. However, no assurance can be given that we will be able to offset these wage increases in the future.
Results of Operations
Fiscal 2023 compared to Fiscal 2022
The following table highlights the key components of sales and the number of restaurants in operation for the years ended December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023:
Year ended
December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023
Restaurant Sales $ 1,876,504 $ 1,730,440
Burger King 1,782,336 1,642,725
Popeyes 94,168 87,715
Change in Comparable Restaurant Sales (a)
9.3 % 4.0 %
Change in Comparable Burger King Restaurant Sales (a)
9.3 % 3.9 %
Change in Comparable Popeyes Restaurant Sales (a)
10.1 % 4.9 %
Burger King Restaurants operating at beginning of year: 1,022 1,026
New restaurants opened, including relocations (b)
5 6
Restaurants acquired - -
Restaurants closed, including relocations (b)
(5) (10)
Burger King Restaurants operating at end of year 1,022 1,022
Average number of operating Burger King restaurants 1,013.7 1,023.4
Popeyes Restaurants operating at beginning of year: 65 65
Restaurants closed, including relocations (b)
(5) -
Popeyes Restaurants operating at end of year 60 65
Average numbers of operating Popeyes restaurants 61.7 64.8
(a) Restaurants we acquire are included in comparable restaurant sales after they have been operated by us for 12 months. Sales from restaurants that we develop are included in comparable restaurant sales after they have been open for 15 months. The calculation of changes in comparable restaurant sales is based on a comparison to the comparable 52-weeks prior.
(b) For the year ended December 31, 2023, one restaurant closure was relocated within its existing market. There were no restaurant relocations during 2022.
Restaurant Sales. Total restaurant sales in 2023 increased 8.4% to $1.9 billion from $1.7 billion in 2022. Comparable restaurant sales increased 9.3% in 2023, which reflected an increase in average check of 9.3%. The change in average check included a 7.5% effective price increase compared to 2022 for our Burger King restaurants and 12.1% for our Popeyes restaurants. Promotional sales discounts in 2023 were 11.2% of restaurant sales compared to 15.8% in 2022. Hours of operation at our restaurants increased 3.6% in 2023 compared to 2022. Restaurant sales were also impacted by the five new Burger King restaurants opened since the end of 2022, the five Burger King restaurants and five Popeyes restaurants closed since the end of 2022, and temporary closures for restaurant being remodeled.
Operating Costs and Expenses (percentages stated as a percentage of total restaurant sales unless otherwise noted). The following table sets forth selected operating results for the years ended December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023:
Year Ended
December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023
Costs and expenses (all restaurants):
Food, beverage and packaging costs 27.8 % 30.9 %
Restaurant wages and related expenses 32.4 % 33.8 %
Restaurant rent expense 6.9 % 7.3 %
Other restaurant operating expenses 15.6 % 15.9 %
Advertising expense 4.1 % 4.0 %
General and administrative expenses 5.6 % 5.1 %
Food, beverage and packaging costs decreased as a percentage of restaurant sales to 27.8% in 2023 from 30.9% in 2022. This decrease reflects the impact of menu price increases taken at our Burger King restaurants since the beginning of 2023 (2.1%) and lower promotional discounting in 2023 at our Burger King restaurants (1.3%), which were partially offset by increased commodity pricing at our Burger King restaurants (0.4%) and increased commodity pricing at our Popeyes restaurants (0.1%). A new vendor agreement in 2023 also reduced our food, beverage and packaging costs in 2023 by $4.5 million.
Restaurant wages and related expenses decreased to 32.4% of restaurant sales in 2023 from 33.8% in 2022. The hourly labor rate, inclusive of minimum wage increases, increased 4.2% in 2023 from 2022, compared to an increase of 9.1% in 2022 from 2021. The increase in 2023 was mostly offset by a decrease in restaurant team member hours of 2.4% in 2023 from 2022, which includes the impact from a lower restaurant count in 2023.
Restaurant rent expense decreased to 6.9% in 2023 from 7.3% in 2022 due to the impact of higher sales volumes on our rental costs, which are approximately 80% fixed.
Other restaurant operating expenses decreased as a percentage of restaurant sales to 15.6% in 2023 from 15.9% of restaurant sales in 2022 primarily due to lower general liability insurance costs (0.2%), lower property insurance costs (0.1%) and the impact of higher sales volumes on primarily fixed other operating expenses. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in repairs and maintenance (0.2%).
Advertising expense was 4.1% in 2023 and 4.0% in 2022 due to increased spending on local advertising.
Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA. As a result of the factors above, Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA increased $106.3 million, or 75.0%, to $248.2 million in 2023 compared to $141.9 million in 2022, and, as a percentage of total restaurant sales, increased to 13.2% in 2023 from 8.2% in 2022. For a reconciliation between Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA and income (loss) from operations see page 50.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses increased to $105.9 million in 2023 from $88.1 million in 2022, and increased to 5.6% as a percentage of total restaurant sales from 5.1% in 2022. The $17.9 million increase in total general and administrative expenses in 2023 was primarily due to higher incentive compensation accruals of $13.5 million, higher salaries and benefits of $2.0 million, higher professional fees of $0.6 million, higher abandoned development costs of $0.6 million, and higher stock compensation expense of $0.6 million.
Adjusted EBITDA. As a result of the factors above, Adjusted EBITDA increased $86.8 million to $149.3 million in 2023 from $62.5 million in 2022. Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of restaurant sales was 8.0% and 3.6% in 2023 and 2022, respectively. For a reconciliation between net income (loss) and EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA see page 50.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense decreased to $74.2 million in 2023 from $78.1 million in 2022.
Impairment and Other Lease Charges. Impairment and other lease charges were $7.6 million in 2023 consisting of initial impairment charges for three underperforming restaurants of $0.7 million, capital expenditures at previously impaired restaurants of $1.0 million, and other lease charges of $5.9 million, which included $5.7 million related to eight restaurants closed during the year.
We recorded impairment and other lease charges of $21.9 million in 2022 consisting of $16.7 million in goodwill impairment charges, $0.2 million in franchise rights impairment charges, $2.1 million related to initial impairment charges for 15 underperforming restaurants, $0.7 million of capital expenditures at previously impaired restaurants, and other lease charges of $2.1 million primarily related to eight restaurants closed during 2022 of $1.7 million. The non-cash goodwill impairment charge in 2022 represented a full write-down of the goodwill for our Popeyes reporting unit.
Other Income, net. Other income, net, was $6.1 million in 2023 and primarily included a gain from a settlement with BKC under the territorial rights provision of our franchise agreement of $4.3 million, net gains from insurance recoveries of $1.7 million and a loss on disposal of assets of $1.4 million. Other income, net, was $0.9 million in 2022 and included a $2.5 million gain from a settlement with a vendor, a loss on disposal of assets of $1.2 million and a loss on sale leaseback transaction of $0.4 million.
Interest Expense. Interest expense decreased to $29.1 million in 2023 from $30.8 million in 2022. This decrease was primarily driven by the absence of interest on revolving credit borrowings outstanding in 2023, the reduction in $30.0 million of outstanding principal of our Term Loan B borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities as a result of a voluntary prepayment in 2023 and the repurchase of $9.9 million of Notes in the open market in 2023, as well as interest income earned on cash balances. This decrease was offset in part by higher interest rates on the variable borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities, as the weighted average interest rate on borrowings under our long-term debt increased to 5.7% in 2023 from 5.3% in 2022. Variable rate increases on our Senior Credit Facilities have and will be offset by our interest rate swap which, until its expiration in February 2025, fixes the interest rate on $120.0 million of debt outstanding under our Senior Credit Facilities at 0.854% plus the applicable margin. At the end of 2023, after consideration of our interest rate swap, more than 90% of our long-term debt (including current portion) was at a fixed rate.
Gain on Extinguishment of Debt. We recognized a net gain on extinguishment of debt of $0.9 million in 2023 in connection with the voluntary prepayment of $30.0 million of the outstanding principal amount of our Term Loan B borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities and the repurchase of $9.9 million of our outstanding Notes in the open market. The net gain included the proportional write-off of unamortized debt issuance costs and unamortized original issuance discount.
Provision (benefit) for Income Taxes. The provision for income taxes during 2023 of $4.5 million was derived using an estimated effective annual income tax rate for all of 2023 of 16.5%, which excludes other discrete tax adjustments. The difference compared to the statutory rate for 2023 is attributable to various permanent non-deductible expenses and non-refundable business credits which are not directly related to the amount of pre-tax income recorded in the period as well as the impact of changes to our valuation allowance on our deferred income tax assets, which was a decrease of $2.1 million in 2023. There was $0.5 million in discrete tax expense during 2023.
In 2022, we recorded an income tax benefit of $0.8 million, which was derived using an estimated effective annual income tax rate for all of 2022 of 29.4%, which excludes other discrete tax adjustments. The difference compared to the statutory rate for 2022 is attributable to various permanent non-deductible expenses and non-refundable business credits which are not directly related to the amount of pre-tax loss recorded in the period as well as the impact of changes to our valuation allowance on our deferred income tax assets, which was an increase of $21.1 million in 2022. There was $0.5 million in discrete tax benefits during 2022.
Net Income (Loss). As a result of the above, our net income was $33.8 million in 2023, or $0.53 per diluted share, compared to net loss of $75.6 million in 2022, or $1.49 per diluted share.
Reconciliations of net income (loss) to EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and income (loss) from operations to Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023 are as follows (in thousands):
Year Ended
December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023
Reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA:
Net income (loss) $ 33,796 $ (75,572)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes 4,473 (789)
Interest expense 29,112 30,841
Depreciation and amortization 74,161 78,068
EBITDA 141,542 32,548
Impairment and other lease charges 7,609 21,877
Pre-opening costs (1)
48 292
Executive transition, litigation and other professional expenses (2)
1,464 3,777
Other income, net (3)(4)
(6,058) (926)
Stock compensation expense 5,551 4,902
Gain on extinguishment of debt (875) -
Adjusted EBITDA $ 149,281 $ 62,470
Year Ended
December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023
Reconciliation of Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA:
Income (loss) from operations $ 66,506 $ (45,520)
Add:
General and administrative expenses 105,930 88,072
Pre-opening costs (1)
48 292
Depreciation and amortization 74,161 78,068
Impairment and other lease charges 7,609 21,877
Other income, net (3)(4)
(6,058) (926)
Adjusted Restaurant-Level EBITDA
$ 248,196 $ 141,863
Year Ended
December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023
Reconciliation of Adjusted net income (loss):
Net income (loss) $ 33,796 $ (75,572)
Add:
Impairment and other lease charges 7,609 21,877
Pre-opening costs (1)
48 292
Executive transition, litigation and other professional expenses (2)
1,464 3,777
Other income, net (3)(4)
(6,058) (926)
Gain on extinguishment of debt (875) -
Income tax effect on above adjustments (5)
(547) (6,256)
Valuation allowance for deferred taxes (6)
(2,111) 21,065
Adjusted Net Income (Loss) $ 33,326 $ (35,743)
Adjusted diluted net income (loss) per share (7)
$ 0.53 $ (0.70)
Adjusted diluted weighted average common shares outstanding 62,413 50,718
(1)Pre-opening costs for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023 include training, labor and occupancy costs incurred during the construction of new restaurants.
(2)Executive transition, litigation and other professional expenses for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 include executive recruiting, severance and transition costs and other non-recurring professional expenses. Executive transition, litigation and other professional expenses for the twelve months ended January 1, 2023 include executive recruiting and severance costs, costs pertaining to an ongoing lawsuit with one of the Company's former vendors and other non-recurring professional expenses.
(3)Other income, net for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 primarily included a gain from a settlement with BKC under the territorial rights provision of our franchise agreement of $4.3 million, net gains from insurance recoveries of $1.7 million and a loss on disposal of assets of $1.4 million.
(4)Other income, net for the twelve months ended January 1, 2023 included a loss on sale-leaseback transactions of $0.4 million, a loss on disposal of assets of $1.2 million and a gain from a settlement with a vendor of $2.5 million.
(5)The income tax effect related to the adjustments to Adjusted Net Income (Loss) during the periods presented was calculated using an incremental income tax rate of 25.0% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023.
(6)Reflects the change in the valuation allowance on all our net deferred taxes for the years ended December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023.
(7)Adjusted diluted net income (loss) per share is calculated based on Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and the diluted weighted average common shares outstanding for the respective periods, where applicable.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
As is common in the restaurant industry, we maintain relatively low levels of accounts receivable and inventories and receive trade credit based upon negotiated terms for purchasing food products and other supplies. As a result, we may at times maintain current liabilities in excess of current assets, which results in a working capital deficit. We are able to operate with a substantial working capital deficit because:
•restaurant operations are primarily conducted on a cash basis (including credit card payments);
•rapid turnover results in a limited investment in inventories; and
•cash from sales is usually received before related liabilities for supplies and payroll become due.
Interest payments under our debt obligations, capital expenditures (including for restaurant remodeling), payments of royalties and advertising to BKC and PLK, and payments related to our lease obligations represent significant liquidity requirements for us, not including any discretionary expenditures for the acquisition or development of additional Burger King and Popeyes restaurants.
If our future financing needs increase, we may need to arrange additional debt or equity financing. We continually evaluate and consider various financing alternatives to enhance or supplement our existing financial resources, including our Senior Credit Facilities. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to enter into any such arrangements on acceptable terms or at all.
We believe our cash balances, cash generated from our operations and availability of revolving credit borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities provide sufficient cash availability to cover our anticipated working capital needs, capital expenditures and debt service requirements for at least the next twelve months.
Operating activities. Net cash provided from operating activities for the years ended December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023 was $139.1 million and $20.8 million, respectively. Net cash provided by operating activities in 2023 increased by $118.3 million compared to 2022, which was due primarily to an increase of Adjusted EBITDA of $86.8 million and a increase in cash provided by working capital components of $26.1 million. Working capital changes in 2023 included the repayment of $10.8 million of employer payroll taxes deferred in 2020 under the CARES Act, which was fully repaid, as well as increased bonus accruals in 2023.
Net cash provided from operating activities in 2022 decreased by $50.1 million compared to 2021 due primarily to a decrease in Adjusted EBITDA of $19.1 million and a decrease in cash provided by working capital components of $27.6 million. Working capital changes in 2022 included the repayment of $10.8 million of employer payroll taxes deferred in 2020 under the CARES Act as well as semi-annual interest payments on our Notes which commenced in 2022.
Investing activities. Net cash used for investing activities for the years ended December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023 was $53.0 million and $37.2 million, respectively.
Capital expenditures are a large component of our investing activities and include: (1) new restaurant development, which may include the purchase of real estate; (2) restaurant remodeling, which includes the renovation or rebuilding of the interior and exterior of our existing restaurants including expenses associated with our franchise agreement renewals and certain restaurants that we acquire; (3) other restaurant capital expenditures, which include capital maintenance expenditures for the ongoing reinvestment and enhancement of our restaurants, and from time to time, to support BKC's and PLK's initiatives; and (4) corporate and restaurant information systems, including expenditures for our point-of-sale software for restaurants that we acquire.
The following table sets forth our capital expenditures for the periods presented (dollar amounts in thousands):
Year Ended
December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023
New restaurant development $ 9,733 $ 8,881
Restaurant remodeling 16,251 9,139
Other restaurant capital expenditures 21,971 16,639
Corporate and restaurant information systems 6,608 3,560
Total capital expenditures $ 54,563 $ 38,219
Number of new restaurant openings, including relocations 5 6
In 2023 and 2022, investing activities also included proceeds from sale-leaseback transactions of $5.2 million and $4.1 million, respectively, and proceeds from insurance recoveries of $2.4 million and $0.1 million, respectively.
In 2023 and 2022, investing activities also included the purchase of certain operating properties to be sold in sale-leaseback transactions of $5.9 million and $4.0 million, respectively.
Financing activities. Net cash used for financing activities in 2023 was $60.1 million and included repayment of $12.5 million of net revolving credit borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities, principal payments of $34.3 million of outstanding term B loans under our Senior Credit Facilities, a repurchase in the open market of our Notes of $8.7 million, principal payments on finance leases of $3.1 million, and a cash dividend paid of $1.3 million.
Net cash provided by financing activities in 2022 was $5.7 million and included $12.5 million net revolving credit borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities, principal payments of $4.3 million of outstanding term B loans under our Senior Credit Facilities and principal payments on finance leases of $2.6 million.
Senior Notes due 2029. On June 28, 2021, we issued $300.0 million principal amount of the Notes in a private placement as described above under "-Recent and Future Events Affecting our Results of Operations-Issuance of Notes and Amendments to our Senior Credit Facilities".
Senior Credit Facilities. As described above under "-Recent and Future Events Affecting Our Results of Operations-Issuance of Notes and Amendments to our Senior Credit Facilities", we entered into the Senior Credit Facilities and subsequent amendments to the Senior Credit Facilities.
Our obligations under the Senior Credit Facilities are guaranteed by our subsidiaries and are secured by first priority liens on substantially all of our assets, including a pledge of all of the capital stock and equity interests of our subsidiaries. Under the Senior Credit Facilities, we are required to make mandatory prepayments of borrowings following dispositions of assets, debt issuances and the receipt of insurance and condemnation proceeds (all subject to certain exceptions).
The Senior Credit Facilities contain certain covenants, including, without limitation, those limiting our and our subsidiaries' ability to, among other things, incur indebtedness, incur liens, sell or acquire assets or businesses, change the character of its business in any material respect, engage in transactions with related parties, make certain investments, make certain restricted payments or pay dividends.
In addition, the Senior Credit Facilities require us to meet a First Lien Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Senior Credit Facilities) of not greater than 5.75 to 1.00 (as measured on a most recent four quarter basis) if, and only if, on the last day of any fiscal quarter, the sum of the aggregate principal amount of outstanding revolving credit borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility and the aggregate face amount of letters of credit issued under the Revolving Credit Facility (excluding undrawn letters of credit in an aggregate face amount up to $12.0 million) exceed 35% of the aggregate borrowing capacity under the Revolving Credit Facility.
The Senior Credit Facilities contain customary default provisions, including that the lenders may terminate their obligation to advance and may declare the unpaid balance of borrowings, or any part thereof, immediately due and payable upon the occurrence and during the continuance of customary events of default which include, without limitation, payment default, covenant default, bankruptcy default, cross-default on other indebtedness, judgment default and the occurrence of a change of control.
As of December 31, 2023, there were no revolving credit borrowings outstanding and $11.0 million of letters of credit issued under the Revolving Credit Facility. After reserving for issued letters of credit and outstanding revolving credit borrowings, $204.0 million was available for revolving credit borrowings at December 31, 2023 under the Revolving Credit Facility.
As there were no borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility (and only $11.0 million of letters of credit) at December 31, 2023, we did not exceed 35% of our aggregate borrowing capacity, therefore no First Lien Leverage Ratio calculation was required. However, if the Company had been subject to the First Lien Leverage Ratio, the Company's First Lien Leverage Ratio was 0.65x to 1.00 as of December 31, 2023, which was below the required First Lien Leverage Ratio of 5.75x to 1.00. As a result, we do not expect to have to reduce our term loan borrowings mandatorily with Excess Cash Flow (as defined in the Senior Credit Facilities). We were in compliance with the financial covenants under our Senior Credit Facilities at December 31, 2023.
At December 31, 2023, borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan B Facility each bore interest as follows at a rate per annum equal to (a) the Alternate Base Rate (as defined in the Senior Credit Facilities) plus 2.25% or (b) Adjusted Term SOFR (as defined in the Senior Credit Facilities) plus 3.25% (subject to the interest rate swap as described below)..
The weighted average interest rate for borrowings on long-term debt balances was 5.7% and 5.3% the years ended December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively.
The Term Loan B borrowings are due and payable in quarterly installments, which began on September 30, 2019. Amounts outstanding at December 31, 2023 are due and payable as follows:
(i) nine quarterly installments of $1.1 million;
(ii) one final payment of $123.8 million on April 30, 2026.
Interest Rate Swap. In March 2020, we entered into an interest rate swap agreement with certain of our lenders under the Senior Credit Facilities to mitigate the risk of increases in the variable interest rate related to term loan borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities. The agreement matures on February 28, 2025. The interest rate swap originally fixed the interest rate on 50% of outstanding borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities at 0.915% plus the applicable margin in its Senior Credit Facilities with the differences settled monthly. The original notional amount of $220.0 million was reduced to $120.0 million in 2021 and the fixed rate of interest was changed in 2022 from 0.915% plus the applicable margin to 0.854% plus the applicable margin in connection with the transition from LIBOR to SOFR as the benchmark rate on our Senior Credit Facilities.
We received payments of $5.0 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and received, net, $1.0 million to settle the interest rate swap during the twelve months ended January 1, 2023.
The fair value of our interest rate swap agreement was an asset of $5.1 million as of December 31, 2023, which is included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Changes in the fair value of the cash flow hedges included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The amounts recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) will subsequently be reclassified to earnings as an increase or decrease to interest expense as realized through receipts or payments. We expect to reclassify net gains totaling $4.9 million into earnings in the next twelve months.
Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our contractual obligations and commitments as of December 31, 2023 (in thousands):
Payments due by period
Contractual Obligations Total Less than
1 Year 1 - 3
Years 3 - 5
Years More than
5 Years
Long-term debt obligations, including interest (1)
$ 529,107 $ 24,078 $ 172,329 $ 34,086 $ 298,614
Finance lease obligations, including interest (2)
10,820 3,460 6,587 773 -
Operating lease obligations (3)
1,235,680 104,289 204,008 194,842 732,541
Total contractual obligations $ 1,775,607 $ 131,827 $ 382,924 $ 229,701 $ 1,031,155
(1)Our long-term debt at December 31, 2023 included $133.4 million of term B loans under our Senior Credit Facilities and $290.1 million of Notes. Total interest payments on our Notes of $93.7 million for all years presented are included at the coupon rate of 5.875% per annum. Interest on our term B loans under our Senior Credit Facilities of $11.9 million for all years presented, which represents a rate of 8.71% per annum and 4.1% for the $120 million subject to our interest rate swap.
(2)Includes total interest of $1.1 million for all years presented.
(3)Includes total interest of $428.1 million for all years presented.
We have not included obligations under our postretirement medical benefit plans in the contractual obligations table as our postretirement plan is not required to be funded in advance, but is funded as retiree medical claims are paid. Also excluded from the contractual obligations table are payments we may make for workers' compensation, general liability and employee healthcare claims for which we pay all claims, subject to annual stop-loss limitations both for individual claims and claims in the aggregate. The majority of our recorded liabilities related to self-insured employee health and insurance plans represent estimated reserves for incurred claims that have yet to be filed or settled. The total of these liabilities was $11.4 million at December 31, 2023.
Future new restaurant development and restaurant remodeling obligations to BKC and PLK have also been excluded from the table above as well as contractual obligations related to royalties and advertising payable to BKC and PLK.
Long-Term Debt Obligations. Refer to Note 9 of our consolidated financial statements for details of our long-term debt.
Lease Guarantees. Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc. ("Fiesta"), our former wholly-owned subsidiary, was spun-off in 2012 to our stockholders. As of December 31, 2023, we are a guarantor under 17 Fiesta restaurant property leases from the time when Fiesta was its subsidiary, which have lease terms expiring on various dates through 2030. As of December 31, 2023, the guarantees include eight Fiesta restaurant property leases and nine Taco Cabana leases of which all but one Fiesta-owned restaurant is still operating. Eight of these guarantees are for leases with Pollo Operations, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Fiesta, and nine of these guarantees are for leases with Texas Taco Cabana, L.P., an indirect subsidiary of Taco Cabana, Inc. (together with all direct and indirect subsidiaries, "Taco"). Taco was a wholly owned subsidiary of Fiesta until August 16, 2021 when Fiesta sold all of its outstanding capital stock of Taco Cabana, Inc. to YTC Enterprises, LLC, an affiliate of Yadav Enterprises, Inc. We are fully liable for all obligations under the terms of the leases in the event that a tenant fails to pay any sums due under the lease, subject to indemnification provisions of the Separation and Distribution Agreement entered into in connection with the spin-off of Fiesta. In October of 2023, Fiesta was acquired by affiliates of Garnett Station Partners ("GSP"). Matthew Perelman and Alexander Sloane, each a member of our Board of Directors, are affiliates of GSP and affiliates of Cambridge Holdings which owns approximately 19.5% of the outstanding shares of our common stock.
The maximum potential amount of future undiscounted rental payments we could be required to make under these leases at December 31, 2023 was $8.3 million, of which $5.1 million pertains to Fiesta restaurant property leases and $3.2 million pertains to Taco restaurant property leases. The obligations under these leases will generally continue to decrease over time as these operating leases expire, other than execution of option renewals that exist under the original lease. No payments have been made to date and none are expected to be required to be made in the future. We have not recorded a liability for those guarantees in accordance with ASC 460 - Guarantees, as Fiesta has indemnified us for all such obligations and we did not believe it was probable we would be required to perform under any of the guarantees or direct obligations.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have no off-balance sheet arrangements.
Inflation
The inflationary factors that have historically affected our results of operations include increases in food and paper costs, labor and other operating expenses, the cost of providing medical and prescription drug insurance to our employees and energy costs. Wages paid in our restaurants are impacted by changes in the federal and state hourly minimum wage rates and the Fair Labor Standards Act. Accordingly, changes in the federal and state hourly minimum wage rates and increases in the wage level to not be considered an hourly employee will directly affect our labor costs.
In 2021 and 2022, the reopening of the economy from the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions increased demand for labor at all levels of the work force and escalated inflation to levels the U.S. economy had not recently experienced. Beginning in the second quarter of 2021 and extending into most of 2022, we were heavily impacted by the sustained levels of commodity and labor inflation. Over that time period, we also experienced difficulty maintaining adequate staffing levels at our restaurants and were impacted by staffing challenges within our supply chain. In 2023, we have seen commodity and labor inflation pressures abate from their peaks and as well as improvements in the availability of labor.
We typically attempt to offset the effect of inflation, at least in part, through periodic menu price increases and various cost reduction programs. However, no assurance can be given that we will be able to offset such inflationary cost increases in the future.
Application of Critical Accounting Estimates
Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Preparing consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. These estimates and assumptions are affected by the application of our accounting policies. Our significant accounting policies are described in the "Significant Accounting Policies" footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements. Critical accounting estimates are those that require application of management's most difficult, subjective or complex judgments, often as a result of matters that are inherently uncertain and may change in subsequent periods.
Sales recognition at our restaurants is straightforward as customers pay for products at the time of sale and inventory turns over very quickly. Payments to vendors for products sold in the restaurants are generally settled within 30 days. The earnings reporting process is covered by our system of internal controls and generally does not require significant management estimates and judgments. However, critical accounting estimates and judgments, as noted below, are inherent in the assessment and recording of the fair market values of acquired restaurant assets and liabilities, insurance liabilities, assessing impairment of long-lived assets, lease accounting matters and the valuation of deferred income tax assets. While we apply our judgment based on assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, actual results could vary from these assumptions. It is possible that materially different amounts would be reported using different assumptions.
Acquisition Accounting. We account for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805, "Business Combinations" ("ASC 805"). As required by ASC 805, assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are recorded at their respective fair values as of the business combination date. Our acquisition accounting methodology contains uncertainties because it requires us to make
significant estimates and assumptions, and to apply judgment to estimate the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, especially with respect to those involving long-lived assets, such as property, equipment, favorable and unfavorable leases and intangible assets. We use available information to make these fair value determinations and, when necessary, engage an independent valuation specialist to assist in the fair value determination of favorable or unfavorable leases and intangible assets.
If actual results are materially different than the assumptions we used to determine the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed through an acquisition as well as the estimated useful lives of the acquired intangible assets, it is possible that adjustments will have a material impact on our financial position and results of operations. See Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements in this report for more information regarding our business acquisitions.
Insurance Liabilities. The amount of liability we record for claims related to insurance requires us to make judgments about the amount of expenses that will ultimately be incurred. We are insured for certain losses related to workers' compensation, general liability and medical insurance claims under policies where we pay all claims, subject to annual stop-loss insurance limitations both for individual claims and claims in the aggregate. We record insurance liabilities based on historical trends, which are continually monitored, and adjust accruals as warranted by changing circumstances. Since there are estimates and assumptions inherent in recording these insurance liabilities, including the ability to estimate the future development of incurred claims based on historical claims experience and loss reserves, current claim data, and the severity of the claims, differences between actual future events and prior estimates and assumptions could result in adjustments to these liabilities. As of December 31, 2023, we had $11.4 million accrued for these insurance claims.
Franchise Rights. We assess the potential impairment of franchise rights whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable, which include closures of restaurants, change in restaurant-level cash flow, as well as consideration of the impact of a decline in the Company's market value. If an indicator of impairment exists, an estimate of the aggregate undiscounted cash flows from the acquired restaurants is compared to the respective carrying value of franchise rights for each acquisition. If an asset is determined to be impaired, the loss is measured by the excess of the carrying amount of the asset over its fair value. When measuring impairment of franchise rights, we make assumptions and apply judgment in estimating future cash flows, including annual revenue growth rates, labor rates, commodity costs and other operating cost assumptions.
We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the future estimates or assumptions we use to assess franchise right impairment losses. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to an impairment charge that could materially adversely impact our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
Goodwill. Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the value assigned to the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets of the businesses acquired. Goodwill is not amortized, but is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently when events and circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. As part of our goodwill impairment analysis, we consider certain qualitative factors, such as performance, business forecasts and expansion plans. Using both the income approach and the market approach, we compare the fair value of each of our reporting units to carrying value. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair value, an impairment loss is recognized.
We determined a sustained decline in our stock price due to the impact of sustained increases in input costs on our operating margins during the second quarter of 2022 resulted in an implied equity premium that was outside of an observable range and was a sufficient indicator to trigger an interim goodwill impairment analysis as of April 30, 2022. Based on the results of our goodwill impairment analysis, the fair value of the PLK reporting unit was less than the carrying value and a full write-down of the PLK goodwill was required. See Note 5 in our consolidated financial statements in this report for more information.
When measuring impairment of goodwill using discounted cash flows, we make assumptions and apply judgment in estimating future cash flows and asset fair values, including annual revenue growth rates, a terminal year growth rate and selecting a discount rate that reflects the risk inherent in future cash flows. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the future estimates or assumptions we use to assess goodwill impairment losses. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to an impairment charge that could materially adversely impact our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
Impairment of Long-lived Assets and Other Lease Charges. We assess the potential impairment of long-lived assets, principally property and equipment and lease related balances, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Impairment indicators at the restaurant level include low operating cash flows, declining sales, if the ratio of trailing twelve months cash flows extended over the remaining lease term does not exceed the net book value of the asset group and consideration of the impact of a decline in our market value. We determine if the asset is recoverable by comparing the carrying amount of the asset to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by our restaurants. If assets are determined to not be recoverable, the impairment charge is measured by calculating the amount by which the asset's carrying amount exceeds its fair value. In determining future cash flows, significant estimates are made by us with respect to future operating results of each restaurant over its remaining lease term, including sales trends, labor rates, commodity costs and other operating cost assumptions which can be impacted by changes in the business or economic conditions. Our fair value estimates are also subject to a high degree of judgment, including our ability to sell the related assets and changing market conditions. Should actual cash flows and our future estimates vary from those estimates used, we may be required to record impairment charges for these assets in the future.
Lease Accounting. In accordance with ASC 842, we determine if an arrangement is an operating lease or a finance lease at inception. Operating leases are included in operating lease right-of-use ("ROU") assets and current and long-term operating lease liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets. Finance leases are included in property and equipment and other current and long-term liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets. Lease liabilities are calculated using the effective interest method and recognized at the commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the reasonably certain lease term, regardless of classification, while the amortization of ROU assets varies depending upon classification. As our leases generally do not provide an implicit rate, we use a collateralized incremental borrowing rate ("IBR") to determine the present value of lease payments. This analysis considers qualitative and quantitative factors. We adjust our selected IBR quarterly with a company-specific yield curve that approximates our market risk profile. The collateralized IBR is also based upon the estimated impact that the collateral has on the IBR.
While we believe our estimates and judgments are reasonable, changes in these assumptions may have a material impact on our consolidated financial positions and results of operations.
Valuation of Deferred Income Tax Assets. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to the years in which those differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent we believe these assets will more likely than not be realized. In evaluating the realizability of our net deferred tax assets, we perform an assessment of positive and negative evidence, as required by ASC 740. ASC 740 prescribes that objective historical evidence, in particular our three-year cumulative loss position at December 31, 2023, be given a greater weight than subjective evidence, including our forecast of future taxable income, which include assumptions that cannot be objectively verified. In determining the likelihood of future realization of the deferred income tax assets as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023 we considered both positive and negative evidence and weighted the effect of such evidence based upon its objectivity. Based on the required weight of evidence under ASC 740, as of December 31, 2023 we determined that a valuation allowance was needed for certain income tax credits in the amount of $42.7 million as they may expire prior to their utilization. The amount of the deferred tax asset considered realizable, however, could be adjusted if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced or increased or if objective negative evidence in the form of cumulative losses is no longer present and additional weight may be given to subjective evidence such as projections for growth. We will continue to monitor and evaluate the positive and negative evidence considered in arriving at the above conclusion, in order to assess whether such conclusion remains appropriate in future periods.
We must also make estimates of certain items that relate to current and deferred tax liabilities. These estimates include employer tax credits for items such as the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, as well as estimates of tax depreciation based on methods anticipated to be used on our tax returns. These estimates are made based on the best available information at the time of the estimate and historical experience.
Although we believe that the judgments and estimates discussed herein are reasonable, actual results could differ, and we may be exposed to losses or gains that could be material. To the extent actual results differ from estimated amounts recorded, such differences will impact the income tax provision in the period in which the determination is made.

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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Interest Rate Risk
We are exposed to market risk associated with fluctuations in interest rates, primarily limited to borrowings under our Senior Credit Facilities in excess of the amounts covered by our interest rate swap. At December 31, 2023, there were outstanding borrowings of $133.4 million under our Senior Credit Facilities of which $120 million was fixed according to the terms of our interest rate swap. A 1% change in interest rates would have resulted in a $0.5 million change to interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2023 and a $0.7 million change to interest expense for the year ended January 1, 2023.
At December 31, 2023, borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan B Facility each bore interest at a rate per annum equal to (a) the Alternate Base Rate (as defined in the Senior Credit Facilities) plus 2.25% or (b) Adjusted Term SOFR (as defined in the Senior Credit Facilities) plus 3.25%.
(ii) Term Loan B Facility borrowings: at a rate per annum equal to (a) the Alternate Base Rate (as defined in the Senior Credit Facilities) plus 2.25% or (b) Adjusted Term SOFR (as defined in the Senior Credit Facilities) plus 3.25% (subject to the interest rate swap as described below).
As of December 31, 2023, there were no revolving credit borrowings outstanding and $11.0 million of letters of credit issued under the Revolving Credit Facility. After reserving for issued letters of credit and outstanding revolving credit borrowings, $204.0 million was available for revolving credit borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility at December 31, 2023.
Commodity Price Risk
We are exposed to market price fluctuations in beef and other food product prices caused by weather, market conditions, including sourcing of various products internationally, and other factors which are not considered predictable or within our control. Given the historical volatility of beef and other food product prices, this exposure can impact our food and beverage costs. Although many of the products purchased are subject to changes in commodity prices, certain purchasing contracts or pricing arrangements have been negotiated in advance to minimize price volatility. Where possible, these types of purchasing techniques to control costs are used as an alternative to using financial instruments to hedge commodity prices. We are dependent on our national purchasing cooperatives, RSI for the Burger King system and SMS for the Popeyes system, for sourcing our products and related supplies and managing relationships with approved distributors. In many cases, we believe we will be able to address commodity cost increases that are significant and appear to be long-term in nature by adjusting our menu pricing. However, long-term increases in commodity prices may result in lower restaurant-level operating margins.

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The financial statements and supplementary data of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. required by this Item are described in Item 15 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and are presented beginning on page.

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ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.

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ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures. Our senior management is responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act), designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the issuer's management, including its principal executive officer or officers and principal financial officer or officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. We have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as well as other key members of our management. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2023.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting. No changes occurred in our internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of 2023 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our senior management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and Rule 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act), designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms.
Because of inherent limitations, a system of internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management has evaluated the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023 based on the criteria set forth in a report entitled Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this evaluation, we have concluded that, as of December 31, 2023, our internal control over financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and their report is included herein.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the stockholders and the Board of Directors of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements and consolidated financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a)2 (“consolidated financial statements”) as of and for the year ended December 31, 2023 of the Company and our report dated March 8, 2024 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Rochester, New York
March 8, 2024

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ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
None.

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ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Principal Occupation, Business Experience, Qualifications and Directorships of Other Members of the Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is divided into three classes of directors, with the classes as nearly equal in number as possible, each serving staggered three-year terms, except for the two Class D directors described below who each serve a one-year term. The terms of office for our three classes of directors are as follows:
•Class III directors - The term of this class will expire at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2024 and when their successors are duly elected and qualified;
•Class I directors - The term of this class will expire at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2025 and when their successors are duly elected and qualified; and
•Class II directors - The term of this class will expire at the annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2026 and when their successors are duly elected and qualified.
Our Class I directors are Matthew Perelman and John D. Smith; our Class II directors are Hannah S. Craven, Lawrence E. Hyatt and Alexander Sloane; and our Class III directors are David S. Harris and Deborah M. Derby. Additionally, Matthew Dunnigan, the Chief Financial Officer of RBI, the indirect parent company of BKC, and Thomas B. Curtis, President BKC, Americas, serve as the two Class D directors. As further described under “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions-Series D Preferred Stock”, the terms of our Series D Preferred Stock provide that the BKC Stockholders are entitled to elect two Class D directors at each annual meeting of stockholders, subject to certain conditions. Each Class D director, in his capacity as a member of our Board of Directors, is afforded the same rights and privileges as the other members of our Board of Directors, including, without limitation, rights to indemnification, insurance, notice, information and the reimbursement of expenses.
As further described under “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions-Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement, Matthew Perelman was appointed by our Board of Directors as a Class I Director and Alexander Sloane was appointed by our Board of Directors as a Class II Director effective April 30, 2019 pursuant to a Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement dated as of April 30, 2019 (the “Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement”) entered into with Cambridge Holdings. Each Cambridge Investor Director (as defined below), in his capacity as a member of our Board of Directors, is afforded the same rights and privileges as the other members of our Board of Directors, including, without limitation, rights to indemnification, insurance, notice, information and the reimbursement of expenses.
The Company has entered into the Merger Agreement to be acquired by RBI. If the Merger is completed, the Company will have no public stockholders and there will be no public participation in any future meetings of the Company's stockholders. However, if the Merger is not completed, the Company's stockholders will continue to be entitled to attend and participate in stockholder meetings. The Company will hold an annual meeting of stockholders in 2024 only if the Merger has not already been completed and the Company remains a public company.
The following table sets forth information with respect to each of the members of our Board of Directors, including the class of such director and the year in which each such director’s term will expire:
Name Age Year Became
a Director Year Term Expires
and Class
David S. Harris 64 2012 2024 Class III
Deborah M. Derby 60 2018 2024 Class III
Matthew Perelman 37 2019 2025 Class I
John D. Smith 59 2022 2025 Class I
Hannah S. Craven 58 2015 2026 Class II
Lawrence E. Hyatt 69 2017 2026 Class II
Alexander Sloane 36 2019 2026 Class II
Matthew Dunnigan 40 2018 2024 Class D
Thomas B. Curtis 60 2021 2024 Class D
Directors
Hannah S. Craven has served as a director since March 27, 2015. Ms. Craven is a co-founder and partner of Stone-Goff Partners LLC ("Stone-Goff"), a private equity firm that focuses on investments in business services companies. Prior to co-founding Stone-Goff and its predecessor firm in 2006, Ms. Craven was a Managing Director and General Partner of Sandler Capital Management from 1993 until 2006, a private equity firm where she served as a key investment professional in five sequential private equity partnerships and was a partner of its long/short hedge fund. Ms. Craven has over 20 years of experience investing in private equity transactions and serves on the boards of directors of several private portfolio companies of Stone-Goff.
Ms. Craven brings to the Board significant strategic, financial and operational insight with respect to consumer and services companies gained in connection with her service on the boards of a number of her current and prior firms' portfolio companies, as well as valuable experience in corporate governance, executive recruiting and development, and capital allocation.
Thomas B. Curtis has served as a Class D director since December 20, 2022 and as a Class B director from July 13, 2021 until December 20, 2022. Since August 2021, Mr. Curtis has served as the President of BKC, Americas. From May 2021 to August 2021, Mr. Curtis served as the Chief Operating Officer of BKC, Americas, where he was responsible for overseeing field operations, restaurant development and restaurant operations. Prior to joining BKC, Mr. Curtis spent 35-years at Domino’s Pizza, Inc., where he most recently served as Executive Vice President, U.S. Operations and Global Operations Support, overseeing both franchise and company-owned operations from March 2020 to April 2021. Prior to that, he served as Executive Vice President, Corporate Operations from July 2018 to March 2020, and as Vice President of Franchise Relations and Operations Innovation from March 2017 to July 2018. Mr. Curtis joined Domino’s in 2006, after being a Domino’s franchisee since 1987.
Mr. Curtis brings to the Board significant knowledge and experience with respect to restaurant companies gained in connection with his employment as an executive officer of BKC and Domino’s.
Deborah M. Derby has served as President and Chief Executive Officer since May 2023, and has also served as a director of the Company since June 7, 2018. Ms. Derby most recently served as the Chief Administrative Officer of The Children’s Place, a children’s specialty apparel retailer, from July to December 2021. From April 2016 until June 2020, Ms. Derby was the President of Horizon Group USA, Inc., a privately held wholesaler of craft components and activity kits. Prior to being named President, and after stepping down in June 2020, Ms. Derby served as a consultant to Horizon Group USA from November 2015 to March 2016 and from July to September 2020, respectively. Prior to that, Ms. Derby had an almost 15-year career at Toys “R” Us, Inc., where she served in a variety of senior executive positions including President of Babies “R” Us and Vice Chairman of Toys "R" Us. Ms. Derby has served as a director of Henry Schein, Inc. (Nasdaq: HSIC) since February 2021. She also served as a director of the Vitamin Shoppe, Inc. (NYSE: VSI) from 2012 to December 2019.
Ms. Derby brings to the Board a significant understanding of strategic, financial, operational and organizational issues of consumer-focused companies gained in connection with her service on the boards of public companies and as a senior executive of several retail and consumer goods companies, as well as valuable experience in retailing, supply chain management, legal and financial analysis, human resources and executive compensation.
Matthew Dunnigan has served as a Class D director since December 20, 2022, a Class B director from November 30, 2018 to December 20, 2022 and as a Class A director from February 5, 2018 until November 30, 2018. Mr. Dunnigan has been Chief Financial Officer of RBI since January 2018 and served as RBI's Treasurer from October 2014 to January 2018. Prior to joining RBI, Mr. Dunnigan served as a Vice President of Crescent Capital Group LP from September 2013 to October 2014, investing in debt securities across all levels of the capital structure, and as an investment professional in private equity for H.I.G. Capital from July 2008 to June 2011. Prior to that, he worked in investment banking with Bear, Stearns & Co., Inc. for two years. From February 2019 through October 2023, Mr. Dunnigan served as a director of Royale JVC Limited, a joint venture that is Burger King’s master franchisee in the United Kingdom.
Mr. Dunnigan brings to the Board significant knowledge of quick service restaurants gained in connection with his employment as an executive officer of RBI, as well as valuable experience in finance, mergers and acquisitions, accounting, corporate strategy and sustainability.
David S. Harris has served as a director since May 7, 2012. He has also served as our Lead Independent Director from November 9, 2021 to April 1, 2022 and as our non-executive Chairman of the Board since April 1, 2022. Mr. Harris served as the Chief Operating Officer of Seven Oaks Acquisition Corp. (Nasdaq: SVOK) from December 2020 to December 2021 and has served as the President of Grant Capital, Inc., a private investment company, since January 2002. From May 2001 until December 2001, Mr. Harris served as a Managing Director in the investment banking division of ABN Amro Securities LLC. From September 1997 until May 2001, he served as a Managing Director and Sector Head of the Retail, Consumer and Leisure Group of ING Barings LLC, a financial institution. From 1986 to 1997, Mr. Harris served in various capacities as a member of the investment banking group of Furman Selz LLC. Since 2004, Mr. Harris has been a director of REX American Resources Corporation (NYSE: REX), where he currently serves as Lead Director and Chairman of the Audit and Compensation Committees. From July 2018 to January 2020, Mr. Harris served as a director of Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: SPH). He is also a former director of Steiner Leisure Limited and Michael Anthony Jewelers, Inc.
Mr. Harris brings to the Board significant investment banking, corporate finance, accounting and capital markets experience, as well as valuable insight into strategic, financial and operational issues of retail companies gained in connection with his service on the boards of a number of public and private companies.
Lawrence E. Hyatt has served as a director since June 8, 2017. From 2006 until 2017, Mr. Hyatt served as a director of Citi Trends Inc. (Nasdaq: CTRN), a publicly traded retail apparel company where he served as Chairman of the Audit Committee and as a member of the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Mr. Hyatt served as the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., a publicly traded restaurant and retail company, from January 2011 until July 1, 2016. From 2004 through 2010, Mr. Hyatt served as the Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer of O’Charley’s Inc., which during the periods of Mr. Hyatt's tenure, was a publicly traded restaurant company. Mr. Hyatt also served as Interim Chief Executive Officer of O’Charley’s Inc. from February 2009 through June 2009. Mr. Hyatt served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Cole National Corporation, a specialty retailer, from 2002 to 2004, as Chief Financial and Restructuring Officer of PSINet Inc., an internet service provider, from 2000 to 2002, as Chief Financial Officer of HMS Host Corporation, a subsidiary of Autogrill S.P.A., from 1999 to 2000, and as Chief Financial Officer of Sodexho Marriott Services, Inc. and its predecessor company from 1989 to 1999.
Mr. Hyatt brings to the Board significant insight with respect to strategic, financial and operational issues of restaurant and food service companies gained in connection with his service as an executive officer and a director of a number of public and private restaurant and retail companies. The Board has determined that Mr. Hyatt is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined by the SEC.
Matthew Perelman has served as a director since April 30, 2019. He is a Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Garnett Station Partners, an investment firm focused on retail and consumer companies. Mr. Perelman has served in executive leadership positions at several portfolio companies of Garnett Station Partners, including as the Co-President of Cambridge Holdings and its subsidiaries from 2014 until their acquisition by the Company in April 2019. As Co-President of Cambridge Holdings, he oversaw, among other things, acquisitions, financings, operations and franchisor relations and helped lead its growth and development into one of the largest and fastest-growing Burger King and Popeyes franchisees. Prior to co-founding Garnett Station Partners in September 2013, Mr. Perelman worked at L Catterton, a large consumer-focused private equity firm, from June 2011 to June 2013. Prior to L Catterton, Mr. Perelman worked in the Investment Banking Division of Citigroup from June 2009 to June 2011, where he focused on consumer and retail M&A and financings. Mr. Perelman serves on the boards of Garnett Station Partners’ portfolio companies.
Mr. Perelman brings to the Board significant strategic, financial and operational experience with respect to retail and restaurant companies gained as an executive officer of Cambridge Holdings and other portfolio companies of Garnett Station Partners, as well as valuable experience in corporate finance, mergers and
acquisitions, risk assessment, strategic planning and budgeting gained from his experience at Garnett Station Partners, Citigroup and L Catterton.
Alexander Sloane has served as a director since April 30, 2019. Mr. Sloane is a Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Garnett Station Partners, an investment firm focused on retail and consumer companies. Mr. Sloane has served in executive leadership positions at several portfolio companies of Garnett Station Partners, including as the Co-President of Cambridge Holdings and each of its subsidiaries from 2014 until their acquisition by the Company in April 2019. As Co-President of Cambridge Holdings, he oversaw, among other things, acquisitions, financings, operations and franchisor relations and helped lead its growth and development into one of the largest and fastest-growing Burger King and Popeyes franchisees. Prior to co-founding Garnett Station Partners in September 2013, Mr. Sloane worked in private equity at Apollo Global Management from 2011 to 2013. Prior to Apollo, Mr. Sloane worked in Investment Banking at Goldman Sachs from 2009 to 2011. Mr. Sloane serves on the boards of Garnett Station Partners’ portfolio companies.
Mr. Sloane brings to the Board significant strategic, financial and operational experience with respect to retail and restaurant companies gained in connection with his experience as an executive officer of Cambridge Holdings and other portfolio companies of Garnett Station Partners, as well as valuable experience in corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, risk assessment, strategic planning and budgeting gained from his experience at Garnett Station Partners, Goldman Sachs and Apollo Global Management.
John D. Smith has served as a director since June 17, 2022. Mr. Smith has served as the Chief Executive Officer of Icon Parking, LLC, a parking management and transportation services company, since January 2020 and as Chairman since March 31, 2023. Previously, he served as the Chief Operating Officer of Aaron’s Inc., a publicly-traded lease-to-own retailer operating over 1,800 company and franchise locations, from January 2018 until January 2020. From January 2016 to August 2017, Mr. Smith served as Chief Executive Officer of Rize Holdings, LLC, a private-equity backed startup founded to transform the casual dining experience through leveraging digital technology. Prior to that, he served as the President, Mid-North Region, of Caesars Entertainment Corporation from 2013 to 2016 and as Chief Executive Officer of Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City from 2010 to 2013.
Mr. Smith brings to the Board significant management, operational, strategic, franchise and digital transformation experience, as well as valuable knowledge of the retail, hospitality and food and beverage industries.
Information Regarding Executive Officers
Name Age Position
Deborah M. Derby 60 President and Chief Executive Officer
Anthony E. Hull 65 Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
Joseph W. Hoffman 61 Executive Vice President and Chief Restaurant Officer
Richard G. Cross 61 Senior Vice President, Chief Development Officer
Jared L. Landaw 59 Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
Nathan Mucher 52 Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer
Ahmad Filsoof 46 Senior Vice President, Strategy and Business Transformation
Gary McQuillan 62 Vice President of Strategic Procurement and Operations Support
Gretta B. Miles 42 Vice President, Controller and Assistant Treasurer
For biographical information regarding Deborah M. Derby, please see "-, Principal Occupation, Business Experience, Qualifications and Directorships of the Members of the Board of Directors".
Anthony E. Hull has served as our Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January 2024. Previously, he served as our Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer from January 2020 until January 2024 and as our Interim President and Chief Executive Officer from December 31, 2022 to May 1, 2023. Prior to joining Carrols, Mr. Hull served as a Senior Advisor at Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY) (“Realogy”), a leading integrated provider of real estate services in the United States, and previously was the company’s Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer from 2006 to 2018. Previously, Mr. Hull served as Executive Vice President, Finance at Cendant Corporation (“Cendant”), a diversified holding company, from 2003 until Realogy’s separation from Cendant in July 2006. From 1996 to 2003, Mr. Hull served as Chief Financial Officer for DreamWorks, LLC, a diversified entertainment company. From 1994 until 1995, Mr. Hull served as Chief Financial Officer of King World Productions, Inc., a NYSE listed television syndication and production company. From 1990 until 1994, Mr. Hull worked in various capacities for Paramount Communications, Inc., a diversified entertainment and publishing company. Mr. Hull began his career at Morgan Stanley & Co. in the mergers and acquisitions department for the media/entertainment group, where he served as Associate and later Vice President from 1984 to 1990.
Joseph W. Hoffman has served as our Chief Restaurant Officer since January 2023 and as Executive Vice President of the Company since January 2024. Previously, he served as Senior Vice President, Operations of the Company from May 2022 to December 2022, as a Division Vice President, Operations from June 2017 until April 2022, and as a Vice President, Region Director from June 1997 until May 2017. Mr. Hoffman has been an employee of the Company since 1993, when he joined the Company as a District Manager.
Richard G. Cross has served as our Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer since January 2024 and as our Vice President and Chief Development Officer from December 2021 to January 2024. Previously, he served as Vice President of the Company from December 2021 until January 2024. Mr. Cross was Vice President, Real Estate from July 2001 until December 2021 and Director of Real Estate from 1994 until July 2001. Mr. Cross served as a Real Estate Manager from 1993 until 1994 and as a Real Estate Representative from 1987 until 1993. Mr. Cross joined the Company in May 1984 and held various positions in the Purchasing Department until 1987.
Jared L. Landaw has served as our Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since January 2024 and as our Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary from February 2021 to January 2024. He has also overseen our sustainability initiatives since February 2021. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Landaw was a Partner, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel of Barington Capital Group, L.P., an investment firm where he worked from June 2004 until January 2021. At Barington, Mr. Landaw frequently assisted public companies in its investment portfolio with a wide variety of matters, including acquisitions, corporate governance, investor communications, director recruiting, SEC filings and board of director matters. Prior to that, he served as the Vice President of Law at International Specialty Products Inc., a global supplier of specialty chemicals and performance-enhancing products (formerly NYSE: ISP), and as an attorney in the mergers & acquisitions practice group at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP. Mr. Landaw was a member of the Board of Directors of Costar Technologies, Inc. (OTC Markets Group: CSTI) from 2008 until 2022.
Nathan B. Mucher has served as our Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer since January 2024 and as our Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from November 2018 until January 2024. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Mucher served as Vice President, Information Technology for Krispy Kreme Doughnuts from 1999 until 2018, where he was responsible, among other things, for all technology initiatives including in areas pertaining to digital, analytics, finance, retail systems and supply chain. Prior to that, he served as a consultant for Novartis Animal Health from July 1998 to December 1998, as a System Analyst for JS Walker & Company, an information technology consulting service provider, from 1996 until 1998, and as a senior programmer for William James and Associates, an information technology consulting service firm, from 1994 until 1996.
Ahmad Filsoof has served as the Senior Vice President of Strategy & Business Transformation of the Company since January 2024. Previously, he served as the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at the Company from June 2022 to January 2024. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Filsoof was Head of Sales Strategy, Operations, Enablement and Planning at Amazon Web Services from May 2020 to January 2022, where he led business strategy and planning, forecasting, management reporting and go-to-market strategy. Before Amazon Web Services, Mr. Filsoof worked at McDonald’s from August 2017 until January 2020, where, among other things, he served as Senior Director, Strategy, Insights and Strategic Initiatives. In that role, Mr. Filsoof led strategy and planning for the company’s U.S. division and was also responsible for strategy development, measuring performance and providing consumer and business insights. Prior to joining McDonald’s, Mr. Filsoof
was a management consultant for ten years, including at The Boston Consulting Group, where he led client engagements across a range of industries, including retail, CPG and food services.
Gary McQuillan has been the Vice President of Strategic Procurement & Operations Support of the Company since May 2023. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. McQuillan was Senior Vice President, Supply Chain at Horizon Group USA, Inc. from 2018 to 2023, where he led a 135-member team overseeing more than 80 contract manufacturers and spearheaded strategic sourcing processes for goods and services. Prior to that, he was as an executive at Toys “R” Us, Inc. from 2014-2018 where, among other things, he served as the Vice President - Global Product Safety, Compliance and Indirect Procurement and directed strategic sourcing and procurement processes for the company across all global markets. Prior to working at Toys “R” Us, Mr. McQuillan spent over 13 years at The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, Inc. (A&P) where he served in a variety of senior leadership roles, including Senior Vice President - Store Operations and Vice President of Strategic Procurement and Quality Assurance.
Gretta B. Miles has served as Controller of the Company since February of 2020, its Assistant Treasurer since June 2022 and as a Vice President of the Company since August 2023. She also served as the Company's Financial Reporting Manager from November 2011 to September 2017, with responsibility for external reporting, technical accounting and board reporting, before temporarily leaving the Company to serve as the Director of Finance for Dinosaur Bar-B-Que from September 2017 to September 2018 and then Director of Accounting and Reporting at TCGplayer.com from September 2018 to February 2020. Ms. Miles, who is a licensed CPA, began her career in public accounting, first as an auditor at Deloitte from June 2003 through November 2008 in New York, NY and then as an Audit Manager at Dannible & McKee, LLP from December 2008 through November 2011 in Syracuse, NY.
Family Relationships
There are no family relationships between any of our executive officers or directors.
Delinquent Section 16 Reports
Based upon a review of the filings furnished to us pursuant to Rule 16a-3(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act, and on representations from our executive officers and directors and persons who beneficially own more than 10% of our common stock, all filing requirements of Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act were complied with in a timely manner during the 2023 fiscal year other than a Statement of Changes in Beneficial Ownership on Form 4 filed by each of Richard Cross, Nathan Mucher, Gerald DiGenova and Anthony Hull on March 17, 2023 reporting the sale of common stock on March 9, 2023 and a Statement of Changes in Beneficial Ownership on Form 4 filed by Cambridge Franchise Partners, LLC on December 6, 2023 reporting the sale of common stock on December 3, 2023.
Code of Ethics
We have adopted written codes of ethics applicable to our directors, officers and employees in accordance with the rules of the SEC and NASDAQ listing standards. These include a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and a Code of Ethics for Executives and Principal Financial Employees. The purpose of these codes is to, among other things, promote honest and ethical conduct, proper accounting, fair and accurate disclosure in the Company’s public filings, and compliance with laws, rules and regulations. The Company also has an Ethics Hotline policy which sets forth procedures for the confidential, anonymous reporting by employees of concerns including unethical business or personal conduct, questionable accounting, financial reporting or auditing matters, and potential violations of state or federal law. We make our codes of ethics available free of charge on the investor relations section of our website at www.carrols.com. We will disclose on our website amendments to or waivers from our codes of ethics in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Audit Committee
Our Audit Committee consists of Ms. Craven, Mr. Harris and Mr. Hyatt (Chair). All three members of the Audit Committee satisfy the independence requirements of Rule 10A-3 of the Exchange Act, and Rule 5605 of the NASDAQ listing standards. Each member of our Audit Committee is financially literate and the Board has determined that Mr. Hyatt is an Audit Committee “financial expert” within the meaning of Item 407 of Regulation S-K of the Securities Act, and has the financial sophistication required under NASDAQ listing standards.
Insider Trading Policy
The Company has a written Management Insider Trading Policy that, among other things, prohibits directors and executive officers from engaging in short selling and hedging transactions with respect to the Company’s securities, buying or selling “uncovered” put options, call options or other derivative securities relating to the Company, purchasing the Company’s securities on margin, borrowing against Company securities in a margin account and pledging the Company’s securities. The Company also has a written Policy on Insider Trading applicable to all employees that sets forth, among other things, restrictions on the trading of our securities and the sharing of material, non-public information concerning the Company.

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ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Compensation Discussion and Analysis
Overview
The Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors is responsible for determining and approving the compensation programs for our President and Chief Executive Officer, which we refer to as the “CEO”, and our other executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table, which we refer to as the “Named Executive Officers” or "NEOs". As described below, the principal elements of our compensation programs include base salary, annual bonus, long-term incentives and the ability to defer the receipt of current compensation.
Objectives of Compensation Program
The primary objectives of our executive compensation programs are to enable us to attract, retain and incentivize executives with the requisite qualifications and experience to achieve our business objectives and help us create long-term value for our stockholders. We accomplish this by utilizing compensation programs that encourage, recognize and reward individual performance and tie a material portion of compensation to short and long-term company performance. Our programs are designed to:
•permit flexibility in establishing compensation for each individual based upon job responsibilities, individual performance and our financial results;
•provide incentives to improve short-term performance and create long-term shareholder value;
•place a significant portion of compensation at risk based on the achievement of performance goals; and
•align the interests of our executive team with the interests of our stockholders.
While the Compensation Committee is responsible for the overall oversight of our executive compensation, the CEO provides recommendations with respect to the compensation of our other executive officers as the Compensation Committee believes that the CEO’s input is valuable in determining their compensation given the CEO's day to day role managing the Company and his or her responsibility for implementing our strategic plans.
Risk Assessment of Compensation Policies and Practices
Our Compensation Committee regularly considers risk as it relates to our compensation programs, including our executive compensation program, and our Compensation Committee does not believe that our compensation programs encourage excessive or inappropriate risk-taking.
Elements of Our Compensation Programs
Our executive compensation program currently consists of short-term compensation (salary and annual incentive bonus) and long-term compensation (consisting of time-based restricted stock and performance-based restricted stock unit awards) and has been designed to align executive interests with the interests of our stockholders. Accordingly, a majority of the compensation is designed to be "at risk".
The Role of Stockholder Say-on-Pay Votes
Our Board of Directors, Compensation Committee and management value the opinions of our stockholders. We provide our stockholders with the opportunity to cast an advisory vote to approve Named Executive Officer compensation every year, known as Say-on-Pay. At our annual meeting of stockholders held in June 2023, 99.04%
of the stockholders who voted on the Say-on-Pay proposal voted in favor of the compensation of our Named Executive Officers as disclosed in our 2023 proxy statement.
Although the advisory Say-on-Pay vote is non-binding, our Compensation Committee carefully considers the outcome of the vote as well as feedback received from stockholder engagement when reviewing the Company's executive compensation plans and making compensation decisions for our Named Executive Officers.
During stockholder engagement in 2021 and 2022, helpful feedback was received regarding restricted stock grants that are utilized by the Company as long-term incentive compensation. Based on this feedback, as well as advice received from the Compensation Committee’s independent compensation consultant, Pearl Meyer & Partners, LLC (“Pearl Meyer”), the Compensation Committee added a performance condition to 50% of the long-term incentive compensation awarded to our Named Executive Officers beginning in 2023 as discussed below.
Our Compensation Committee will continue to consider stockholder feedback and the outcome of our Say-on-Pay votes when making future compensation decisions for our Named Executive Officers.
Independent Compensation Advisor
The Compensation Committee, which has the authority, in its sole discretion, to retain a compensation advisor as necessary to assist with the execution of its duties, has engaged the services of Pearl Meyer, an outside independent compensation consultant. The Compensation Committee has been satisfied with Pearl Meyer’s services. In selecting Pearl Meyer, the Compensation Committee considered the SEC’s independence criteria and concluded that Pearl Meyer is independent per such criteria and that the work of Pearl Meyer will not raise any conflicts of interest. Pearl Meyer reports directly to the Compensation Committee and provides no other services to the Company.
Pearl Meyer's services to the Compensation Committee include providing periodic data and information regarding market pay practices and trends, as well as assisting in the development of appropriate compensation programs and policies that align management and stockholder interests and tie executive pay to performance. Pearl Meyer also assists the Compensation Committee from time to time in evaluating the Company’s compensation programs and practices against the companies with which the Company competes for talent, consumers and investors. However, the Compensation Committee does not benchmark or target a specified pay level or percentile. Instead, the Compensation Committee considers this information along with other relevant facts and circumstances when evaluating the Company's compensation programs and establishing executive pay.
Short-Term Compensation
Base Salary. The Compensation Committee annually reviews and approves the base salaries of our executive officers based upon recommendations from our CEO. Increases are not preset and typically take into account the individual’s performance, responsibilities of the position, potential to contribute to our long-term objectives, management skills, future potential and, from time to time, competitive data. Our executive compensation plan was designed to compensate our CEO and executive officers, including the Named Executive Officers, with modest annual increases in base salaries combined with the opportunity to earn an annual cash incentive bonus based on the performance of the Company and the individual performance of each of the Named Executive Officers, in order to align the interests of our CEO and the other Named Executive Officers with those of our stockholders.
Factors considered in base salary planning included our performance, budgetary and cost containment, competitive market data (from time to time) and current salary levels, as appropriate. At the end of the year, the CEO evaluates the performance of each of the other Named Executive Officers and expected future contributions.
For the 2023 fiscal year, the base salary of Deborah M. Derby, was determined pursuant to the Derby Employment Agreement (as defined below) which is further described under "-, Summary Compensation Table." Ms. Derby's salary for fiscal 2023 was $650,000 effective May 1, 2023. The Derby Employment Agreement was approved by the Compensation Committee. In December 2022, Joseph Hoffman received an increase in his base salary from $365,000 to $400,000 in connection with his promotion to Chief Restaurant Officer of the Company, effective as of January 1, 2023. In addition, in January 2023 Mr. Landaw received an increase of approximately 6.7% in his base salary over the level established for the 2022 fiscal year, as recommended by our CEO and approved by our Compensation Committee in recognition of his contributions to the Company and to better align their compensation with market pay practices.
Annual Incentive Bonus Payments. Annual cash bonuses have been an important component of our compensation program for our executive officers and an executive bonus plan, or “Executive Bonus Plan”, has been approved by the Compensation Committee and was most recently revised in 2017. Our current Executive Bonus Plan, which was originally established in 2012, is reviewed annually by the Compensation Committee. Under our Executive Bonus Plan, annual incentive bonus payments are designed to be “at risk” and are payable in March based on performance for the prior fiscal year.
For the 2023 fiscal year, each of the Named Executive Officers was eligible to receive a target annual incentive bonus of either 100% or 60% of base salary, depending on their respective positions. For each Named Executive Officer, the potential bonus payments were tied, in part, to the level of EBITDA achieved for the 2023 fiscal year (as defined and measured under the Executive Bonus Plan) in relation to our budgeted EBITDA for the 2023 fiscal year and provided for increasing payments to the extent that certain minimum thresholds were exceeded. Each Named Executive Officer was also eligible to receive a bonus based on his individual attainment of specified goals and objectives established for the year, subject to certain minimum thresholds for both EBITDA and each individual's overall attainment of his goals and objectives. For the CEO and the Chief Financial Officer, 75% of their maximum potential bonus payment was tied to the level of EBITDA achieved and 25% was tied to their individual attainment of goals and objectives. For the other Named Executive Officers 50% of their maximum potential bonus payment was tied to the level of EBITDA achieved and 50% was tied to their individual attainment of goals and objectives.
Under the Executive Bonus Plan, EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, impairment charges and stock compensation expense. The Executive Bonus Plan also provides that EBITDA will be adjusted to exclude extraordinary, unusual or non-recurring gains and losses not deemed to be in the ordinary course of business, at the Compensation Committee's reasonable discretion. The Executive Bonus Plan requires that a minimum of 80% of budgeted EBITDA must be attained before the payment of any goals and objectives bonus and 85% of budgeted EBITDA must be attained before any payment of an EBITDA bonus. The Executive Bonus Plan also specifies that the portion of the bonus tied to EBITDA will be capped at 200% of the target level after the attainment of 120% of budgeted EBITDA (the “EBITDA bonus”). The EBITDA bonus is earned on a pro-rata basis at an established rate for each participant for each 1% increase in attainment of budgeted EBITDA above 85% to a maximum of 120%. For the portion of the bonus tied to goals and objectives (the “goals and objectives bonus”), a minimum of 70% achievement of such goals and objectives is required for the participant to be eligible to receive this portion of the bonus. Payments of the goals and objectives bonus are determined based on the discretion of the Compensation Committee, with input from the CEO, based on evaluating the achievement of each participant's goals and objectives. The determination of whether goals and objectives are met by a Named Executive Officer is not a formulaic process; rather, the individual performance considerations are factors (among others) that are taken into consideration in the course of making subjective judgments in connection with the compensation decision. The total annual incentive amount is paid in cash.
The following table sets forth the targeted bonus and actual bonus earned for each of the Named Executive Officers under the Executive Bonus Plan for the 2023 fiscal year:
Name Target EBITDA Bonus %(1)
Maximum Objectives Bonus %(1)
Total Target Bonus %(1)
EBITDA Bonus Rate per 1% Attainment(2)
EBITDA Bonus Rate per 1% Attainment(3)
Earned EBITDA Bonus %(1)(4)
Earned Objectives Bonus %(1)
Total Earned 2023 Bonus(4)
Deborah M. Derby(5)
75 % 25 % 100 % 5.00 % 3.75 % - % - % 758,333
Anthony E. Hull(6)
75 % 25 % 100 % 5.00 % 3.75 % - % - % 1,137,507
Jared L. Landaw 30 % 30 % 60 % 2.00 % 1.50 % - % - % 360,000
Joseph W. Hoffman 30 % 30 % 60 % 2.00 % 1.50 % - % - % 360,000
Richard G. Cross 30 % 30 % 60 % 2.00 % 1.50 % - % - % 337,500
(1)Bonus percentages stated as a percentage of individuals’ base salary at targeted attainment of 100% of budgeted EBITDA.
(2)Rate, as a percentage of individual’s salary, at which EBITDA bonus is earned for each 1% increase in attainment of EBITDA over minimum of 85% up to 100% of budgeted EBITDA.
(3)Rate, as a percentage of individual’s salary, at which EBITDA bonus is earned for each 1% increase in attainment of EBITDA over minimum of 100% up to 120% of budgeted EBITDA.
(4)Based on actual attainment percentage of 219.6% to budgeted EBITDA (as adjusted).
(5)Ms. Derby has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since May 1, 2023.
(6)Mr. Hull served as our interim President and Chief Executive Officer from December 31, 2022 until April 30, 2023 and has served as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January 2020.
For the 2023 fiscal year, we generated total EBITDA (as defined and adjusted under the Executive Bonus Plan) of $149.3 million representing an attainment percentage of 219.6% of total budgeted EBITDA of $68.0 million. As a result, all of our Named Executive Officers received a bonus under the Executive Bonus Plan. The following is a reconciliation of our net income as set forth in our audited consolidated financial statements for the 2023 fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 to EBITDA (as adjusted) utilized in the calculation of the 2023 bonus under the Executive Bonus Plan (dollar amounts in thousands):
Net income $ 33,796
Benefit for income taxes 4,473
Interest expense 29,112
Depreciation and amortization 74,161
EBITDA 141,542
Adjustments:
Impairment expense 7,609
Stock compensation expense 5,551
Executive transition, litigation and other professional expenses 1,464
Pre-opening costs 48
Other income, net (6,058)
Gain on debt extinguishment (875)
EBITDA, as adjusted 149,281
Budgeted EBITDA $67,978
EBITDA Attainment % 219.6 %
Long-Term Compensation
We award long-term equity awards to our Named Executive Officers in connection with the long-term incentive component of our overall compensation plan. The long-term incentive compensation utilized by us is designed to align the long-term interests of our executive management team with those of our stockholders by providing equity-based compensation that will reward executives for creating sustainable, long-term value for our stockholders.
Based on feedback received during stockholder engagement and advice received from Pearl Meyer, the Compensation Committee’s independent compensation consultant, the Compensation Committee elected to modify the long-term incentive awards historically provided to executive officers, moving from 100% time-based awards in 2022 to a mix of 50% time-based awards and 50% performance-based awards in 2023 as further described below.
Time-Based Restricted Stock Awards
We award restricted stock grants to our Named Executive Officers as part of the long-term incentive component of our overall compensation plan. Time-based restricted stock grants represented 50% of each NEO’s total annual long-term incentive grant for 2023 and 50% of each NEO’s total annual long-term incentive grant for 2024. Restricted stock grants awarded under our 2016 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated, which we refer to as the “Carrols plan”, have a time-based vesting schedule, typically vesting over a three-year period as established by the Compensation Committee under the Carrols plan. Our Compensation Committee also established a policy to provide that restricted stock being granted to employees, including the Named Executive Officers, will be granted on January 15th of each year. The measurement of the value of any time-based restricted stock grant is based upon the price of our common stock at the close of business on the grant date. The Compensation Committee determines the number of shares of restricted stock to be granted following its receipt of recommendations from our CEO, who provides such recommendations after evaluating the individual performance of our employees (including the Named Executive Officers, other than the CEO). Such performance evaluations coincide with our normal end of year annual review process for employees and senior management. The granting of restricted stock is an important component of the total compensation package for the Named Executive Officers and is a valuable retention and motivation tool.
Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Awards
Beginning in 2023, the Compensation Committee added performance-based restricted stock units as a significant component to the Company’s restricted stock awards to our Named Executive Officers as the Compensation Committee believes that the use of performance stock units creates greater alignment between long-term executive pay and long-term Company performance. Performance-based restricted stock unit grants represented 50% of each NEO’s total annual long-term incentive grant for 2023 and 2024. For 2023, the performance criterion for the performance-based restricted stock units was based upon the long-term increase in the Company's organic adjusted EBITDA growth on a compounded basis over a three-year period, relative to the Company's baseline adjusted EBITDA of $62.8 million (which approximates the Company's actual adjusted EBITDA for 2022). A three-year compounded organic adjusted EBITDA goal of ten percent per annum was approved by the Compensation Committee in order for the NEOs to achieve the target level of 100% vesting of the restricted stock units. Payouts (consisting of shares of common stock issued under the Carrols plan) ranging from 25% - 200% of the target award for each NEO are earned based on a sliding scale of performance between approximately 89.7% - 136.4% of the goal which would represent between 6% and 22% of compounded annual organic adjusted EBITDA growth over the three-year measurement period. Performance below 89.7% of the goal results in no payout.
In general, performance-based restricted stock unit grants awarded under the Carrols plan have a point in time vesting schedule, typically vesting 60 days after the third fiscal year-end after the grant date as established by the Compensation Committee under the Carrols plan. Our Compensation Committee also established a policy to provide that the 2023 grant of performance-based restricted stock being granted to employees, including the Named Executive Officers, will be granted on January 15th of each year, beginning January 15, 2024. The measurement of the value of any performance-based restricted stock unit grant is based upon the price of our common stock at the close of business on the grant date. The Compensation Committee determines the number of shares of performance-based restricted stock units to be granted following its receipt of recommendations from our CEO, who provides such recommendations after evaluating the individual performance of our employees (including the Named Executive Officers, other than the CEO). Such performance evaluations coincide with our normal end of year annual review process for employees and senior management. The granting of performance-based restricted stock units is an important component of the total compensation package for the Named Executive Officers and is a valuable retention and motivation tool.
2016 Stock Incentive Plan
The Carrols plan provides for the grant of stock options and stock appreciation rights, stock awards, performance awards, outside director stock options and outside director stock awards. Any officer, employee, associate, director and any consultant or advisor providing services to us are eligible to participate in the Carrols plan.
The Carrols plan is administered by the Compensation Committee which approves awards and may base its considerations on recommendations by our CEO. The Compensation Committee has the authority to (1) approve plan participants, (2) approve whether and to what extent stock options, stock appreciation rights and stock awards are to be granted and the number of shares of stock to be covered by each award (other than an outside director award), (3) approve forms of agreement for use under the Carrols plan, (4) determine terms and conditions of awards (including, but not limited to, the option price, any vesting restriction or limitation, any vesting acceleration or waiver or forfeiture, and any right of repurchase, right of first refusal or other transfer restriction regarding any award), (5) modify, amend or adjust the terms and conditions of any award, (6) determine the fair market value, and (7) determine the type and amount of consideration to be received by us for any stock award issued.
The table below reflects restricted stock grants made to our Named Executive Officers during our 2023 fiscal year ended December 31, 2023:
Estimated Future Payouts Under Equity Incentive Plan Awards(1)
Name Grant Date Threshold(#) Target(#) Maximum(#) All Other Stock Awards: Number of Shares of Stock or Units (#)(2)(3)
All Other Awards: Number of Securities Underlying Options (#) Exercise or Base Price of Option Awards ($/Sh) Grant Date Fair Value of Stock and Option Awards(4)
Deborah M. Derby(5)
1/15/2023 - - - 49,020 - $ - $ 100,001
Deborah M. Derby(5)
5/1/2023 - - - 417,320 - $ - $ 1,665,107
Deborah M. Derby(5)
7/1/2023 112,500 450,000 900,000 - - $ - $ 2,268,000
Deborah M. Derby(5)
12/15/2023 - - - 1,236 - $ - $ 8,998
Anthony E. Hull(6)
1/15/2023 - - - 137,868 - $ - $ 281,251
Anthony E. Hull(6)
7/1/2023 34,467 137,868 275,736 - - $ - $ 694,855
Anthony E. Hull(6)
12/15/2023 - - - 408 - $ - $ 2,970
Jared L. Landaw 1/15/2023 - - - 55,148 - $ - $ 112,502
Jared L. Landaw 7/1/2023 13,787 55,148 110,296 - - $ - $ 277,946
Jared L. Landaw 12/15/2023 - - - 152 - $ - $ 1,107
Joseph W. Hoffman 1/15/2023 - - - 55,148 - $ - $ 112,502
Joseph W. Hoffman 7/1/2023 13,787 55,148 110,296 - - $ - $ 277,946
Joseph W. Hoffman 12/15/2023 - - - 152 - $ - $ 1,107
Richard G. Cross 1/15/2023 - - - 34,927 - $ - $ 71,251
Richard G. Cross 7/1/2023 8,732 34,927 69,854 - - $ - $ 176,032
Richard G. Cross 12/15/2023 - - - 103 - $ - $ 750
(1)The threshold amounts reflect shares earned assuming 90% of the EBITDA performance criteria is met and 25% of granted shares are vested; the target amounts reflect shares earned assuming 100% of the EBITDA performance criteria is met and 100% of shares are vested; and the maximum amounts reflect shares earned assuming at least 136% of the EBITDA performance criteria is met and 200% of the shares are vested.
(2)Amounts shown in this column reflect the number of shares of time-based restricted stock awarded to each Named Executive Officer under the Carrols plan during 2023.
(3)Awards granted on December 15, 2023 represent dividend equivalent units granted to the Named Executive Officers with outstanding time-based restricted stock units and outstanding performance-based restricted stock units at the dividend record date.
(4)Based on the closing price of our common stock on such date. Performance-based restricted stock units are valued here using target attainment and valued at the closing price of our common stock on such date.
(5)Ms. Derby has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since May 1, 2023.
(6)Mr. Hull served as our interim President and Chief Executive Officer from December 31, 2022 until April 30, 2023 and has served as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January 2020.
Clawback Policy
In 2021, the Company adopted an incentive compensation clawback policy (hereinafter, the “Legacy Clawback Policy”) to help ensure that incentive compensation is paid based on accurate financial and operating data and the correct calculation of the Company’s performance against incentive targets. The Legacy Clawback Policy permits (but does not require) the Company’s Compensation Committee to seek the recovery of incentive compensation in the event of fraud or misconduct or a restatement of the financial or operating results of the Company that, in either case, results in the overpayment of incentive compensation. The Legacy Clawback Policy applies to incentive compensation paid, granted, vested, credited or accrued after May 1, 2021, except to the extent prohibited by law or legal obligation.
Effective December 1, 2023, the Company also adopted an incentive compensation recovery policy (hereinafter, the “New Clawback Policy”) which applies to incentive-based compensation received by covered executives on or after October 2, 2023. The New Clawback Policy was drafted to comply with Section 10D of the Exchange Act, Rule 10D-1 thereunder and Nasdaq Listing Rule 5608. It differs from the Legacy Clawback Policy in several key respects, including, among other things, by (a) providing greater specificity around instances where recovery of an overpayment is required, (b) changing the nature of the Company’s clawback obligation from discretionary to mandatory, and (c) providing more precise calculation mechanics for determining the amount of compensation to be recouped. The Board of Directors of the Company elected to keep the Legacy Clawback Policy in effect along with the New Clawback Policy to provide the Compensation Committee with the ability to potentially recoup incentive compensation which is not covered by the New Clawback Policy.
Stock Ownership Guidelines
The Company has adopted a stock ownership guidelines policy applicable to the Company’s executive officers. The policy was implemented to help align the interests of our executive officers with stockholders by ensuring that they have a significant ownership interest in the Company.
Our stock ownership guidelines policy establishes requirements for our executive officers to maintain the following minimum levels of stock ownership:
Officer Amount of Stock Required
President and Chief Executive Officer 6 times base salary
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
3 times base salary
Executive Vice President and Chief Restaurant Officer 1.5 times base salary
Senior Vice President, Chief Development Officer
1.5 times base salary
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
1.5 times base salary
Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer
1.5 times base salary
Senior Vice President, Strategy and Business Transformation
1.5 times base salary
Vice President of Strategic Procurement and Operations Support 1.5 times base salary
Vice President, Controller and Assistant Treasurer 1.5 times base salary
Executive officers have five years following the date that they became subject to the policy to comply with the applicable minimum level of stock ownership. Once the minimum ownership level is achieved, it must be maintained by the executive officer for as long as the officer remains subject to the policy. Our stock ownership guidelines policy also applies to our independent, non-employee directors, requiring them to own common stock with a market value of five times their annual cash retainer within five years of their election to the Board. Currently, all officers and directors are in compliance with these guidelines or have additional time to meet these guidelines pursuant to the standards described above.
Other Benefits
We offer or offered certain other benefits to our Named Executive Officers as described below. Such benefits are not taken into account in determining such individuals’ base salary, annual incentive bonus or equity-based compensation.
Deferred Compensation Plan
We provide certain benefits under The Carrols Corporation and Subsidiaries Deferred Compensation Plan, which we refer to as the “Deferred Compensation Plan”, which is discussed under “-Nonqualified Deferred Compensation”.
Change of Control and Severance Benefits
For a discussion of change of control arrangements or severance arrangements and the triggers for payments under such arrangements, please see “-Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-of-Control”.
Employment Agreements
On April 12, 2023, we entered into an employment agreement with Ms. Derby. Ms. Derby’s employment agreement is further described under "-, Summary Compensation Table."
None of the other Named Executive Officers have an employment agreement with us.
Compensation Committee Report
The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis with management. Based on such review and discussion, the Compensation Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in both the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the 2023 fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
Compensation Committee
David S. Harris, Chair
Hannah S. Craven
Matthew Perelman
Alexander Sloane
John D. Smith
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
The members of the Compensation Committee for the 2023 fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 were Hannah S. Craven, Deborah M. Derby, David Harris, Matthew Perelman, Alexander Sloane and John D. Smith. In connection with the Board's decision in April 2023 to appoint Deborah M. Derby as the Company's new President and Chief Executive Officer effective May 1, 2023, David S. Harris replaced Ms. Derby on the Compensation Committee. None of the members of the Compensation Committee were, during such year or have been at any time, an officer or employee of the Company. In addition, no executive officer served as a director or a member of the compensation committee of any other entity, other than a subsidiary of the Company, whose executive officers served as a director of the Company or on our Compensation Committee. None of the members of our Compensation Committee had any relationship required to be disclosed under this caption under the rules of the SEC.
Pay Ratio Disclosure
As required by Section 953(b) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and Item 402(u) of Regulation S-K, we are providing the following information about the ratio of the median annual total compensation of our employees (other than our CEO) and the annual total compensation of our CEO. We identified our median employee and calculated our CEO pay ratio as follows:
•We identified the median employee using our employee population as of the final day of our payroll year, December 31, 2023. The final payroll date may vary from year to year as the final day of our payroll year ends on a Sunday rather than a specified date.
•We utilized a consistently applied compensation measure (“CACM”) across our employee population to calculate the median employee compensation. For our CACM, we used total gross taxable earnings from our payroll records. Given our workforce and the high turnover rates inherent in the restaurant industry, our methodology included annualizing the compensation for all full-time and part-time employees who did not work a full calendar year to properly reflect their compensation levels. We did not perform any full-time equivalency adjustments or annualize the compensation for temporary or seasonal positions. We did not make any cost-of-living adjustments or use any statistical sampling.
•After identifying the median employee, we calculated this employee’s total annual compensation in the same manner as the Chief Executive Officer’s compensation, which is described under "-, Summary Compensation Table". The CEO for purposes of this calculation was our President and CEO serving on December 31, 2023, the date we identified the median employee.
We employed approximately 25,000 persons as of December 31, 2023 exclusive of our CEO. Full and part-time hourly restaurant team members comprised approximately 24,800 persons or 99.2% of our employees. As identified using the SEC pay ratio rules and CACM described above, our median employee is a part-time team member who worked an average of 27.35 hours per week in one of our restaurants in the United States and whose annual compensation was $17,227. Our President and CEO’s compensation during the same time period was $5,508,665. Accordingly, our CEO pay ratio based on fiscal year 2023 compensation is approximately 320:1.
Our CEO pay ratio information is a reasonable good faith estimate calculated in a manner consistent with the SEC pay ratio rules and methods for disclosure. The SEC rules do not specify a single methodology for identification of the median employee or calculation of the CEO pay ratio, and other companies may use different assumptions, adjustments, exclusions or estimates in calculating their CEO pay ratio. Given the different methodologies that various public companies use to determine an estimate of their pay ratio, the estimated ratio reported above should not be used as a basis for comparison between companies.
Summary Compensation Table
The following table summarizes historical compensation awarded or paid to, or earned by, each of the Named Executive Officers for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2023, January 1, 2023 and January 2, 2022:
Name and Principal Position Year Salary
($) Bonus
($) Stock
Awards(1)
($)
Option
Awards
($) Non- Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation(2)
($)
Change in
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings(3)
($)
All Other
Compensation(4)
($)
Total
($)
Deborah M. Derby(5)
2023 $ 433,333 $ - $ 4,042,106 $ - $ 758,333 - 274,893 $ 5,508,665
President and Chief
Executive Officer
Anthony E. Hull(7)
2023 $ 650,004 $ 275,000 $ 979,076 $ - 1,137,507 1,401 6,013 $ 3,049,001
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer 2022 $ 650,004 $ 225,000 $ 562,000 $ - $ - 1,054 90 $ 1,438,148
and Treasurer 2021 $ 566,508 $ - $ 516,000 $ - $ - 635 12,023 $ 1,095,166
Jared L. Landaw 2023 $ 400,000 $ 85,000 $ 391,555 $ - $ 360,000 $ 1,390 $ 4,263 $ 1,242,208
Senior Vice President, General 2022 $ 375,000 $ 135,000 $ 210,750 $ - $ - $ 609 $ 31,634 $ 752,993
Counsel and Secretary 2021 $ 268,750 $ - $ 513,750 $ - $ - $ - $ 123,215 $ 905,715
Joseph W. Hoffman(10)
2023 $ 400,000 $ 50,000 $ 391,555 $ - 360,000 2,565 2,320 $ 1,206,440
Executive Vice President and 2022 $ 344,124 $ 90,000 $ 140,500 $ - 51,344 2,169 651 $ 628,788
Chief Restaurant Officer
Richard G. Cross 2022 $ 375,000 $ 85,000 $ 248,033 $ - $ 337,500 $ - $ 1,574 $ 1,047,107
Senior Vice President and Chief 2022 $ 375,000 $ 135,000 $ 140,500 $ - $ - $ - $ 1,008 $ 651,508
Development Officer 2021 $ 336,816 $ - $ 172,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 4,653 $ 513,469
(1)The amounts shown represent the aggregate grant date fair value of equity awards granted and approved by the Compensation Committee in each of the fiscal years presented and is consistent with the grant date fair value of the award computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. These amounts reflect the grant date fair value for these awards, including probability assessment for certain performance-based restricted stock units, and do not correspond to the actual value that will be recognized. The actual value of performance-based restricted stock units, if any, that a Named Executive Officer may realize will depend on the stock price at the date of vesting, attainment of certain performance targets.
(2)We provide incentive compensation to our executive officers based on an individual’s achievement of certain specified objectives and our achievement of specified EBITDA levels. See “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” above for a discussion of our Executive Bonus Plan. Amounts include cash bonuses paid in fiscal years 2024, 2023 and 2022 with respect to services rendered in fiscal year 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
(3)These amounts represent the above-market portion of earnings on compensation deferred by the Named Executive Officers under our nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan. Earnings on deferred compensation are considered to be above-market to the extent that the rate of interest exceeds 120% of the applicable federal long-term rate. At December 31, 2023, 120% of the federal long-term rate was 5.94% per annum and the interest rate paid to participants was 8% per annum.
(4)All other compensation in 2023 includes the value of dividend equivalents received on outstanding restricted stock units in connection with the Company’s cash dividend of $0.02 per share paid on December 15, 2023 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 20, 2023 as follows: Mr. Hull 29 restricted stock units and Mr. Cross seven restricted stock units. For the December 15, 2023 dividend equivalent units, the grant date fair value was $7.28.
All other compensation in 2023 includes the amount received on outstanding restricted time-based stock awards in connection with the Company's cash dividend on $0.02 per share paid on December 15, 2023 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 20, 1023 as follows: Ms. Derby received $9,893, Mr. Hull received $5,892.36, Mr. Landaw received $2,587.96, Mr. Hoffman received $1,894.96 and Mr. Cross received $1,523..
All other compensation in 2021 includes the value of dividend equivalents received on outstanding restricted stock units in connection with the Company’s special cash dividend of $0.41 per share paid on October 5, 2021 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on August 25, 2021 as follows: Mr. Hull 3,196 restricted stock units and Mr. Cross 966 restricted stock units.
For Ms. Derby, the amount for fiscal 2023 includes a hiring stipend of $265,000 in lieu of any moving, housing, bonus (or stock) relinquishment or other similar cost, expense or compensation loss Ms. Derby may have incurred.
For Mr. Landaw, the amount for fiscal 2022 includes a housing stipend of $30,000. In 2021, the amounts shown includes a $75,000 hiring stipend in lieu of moving, rent, relinquishment of bonus or similar payments, plus a gross up for income taxes on such stipend of $46,699.
(5)Ms. Derby has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since May 1, 2023.
(6)Mr. Hull served as our interim President and Chief Executive Officer from December 31, 2022 until April 30, 2023 and has served as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January 2020.
(7)Mr. Hoffman was appointed Chief Restaurant Officer effective January 1, 2023.
Derby Employment Agreement
On April 12, 2023, the Company, and Carrols Corporation entered into an Employment Agreement (the “Derby Employment Agreement”) with Ms. Derby. The Derby Employment Agreement provides that Ms. Derby will receive an annual base salary of $650,000 that may be increased annually at the sole discretion of the Compensation Committee of the Board and will participate in the Company’s Executive Bonus Plan with a target bonus percentage of 100% of her annual base salary. Pursuant to the Derby Employment Agreement, on May 1, 2023, Ms. Derby received a grant of 417,320 shares of restricted stock (the “Derby Restricted Stock Award”) under the Carrols plan, which is equivalent to 450,000 shares of restricted stock less the pro rata portion through May 1, 2023 of 49,020 shares of restricted stock which were granted to Ms. Derby in January 2023 as a director, with 34% of the shares under the Derby Restricted Stock Award vesting on May 1, 2024 and 33% of the shares vesting on each of January 15, 2025 and January 15, 2026. In addition, Ms. Derby received 450,000 performance-based restricted stock units under the Carrols plan on July 1, 2023 (the “Derby Performance Stock Award”), subject to the terms of the applicable award agreement. The Derby Performance Stock Award will vest upon the Company’s achievement of compounded organic adjusted EBITDA growth over a three-year period beginning January 2, 2023 above the Company's 2022 actual adjusted EBITDA subject to the terms of the award agreement as follows:
Performance Level Organic Adjusted EBITDA Achievement Payout (% of Target PSUs)
Below Threshold <$75,000,000 None
Threshold $75,000,000 25%
Intermediate $79,100,000 50%
Target $83,600,000 100%
Maximum $114,000,000 200%
Payouts will be linearly interpolated for EBITDA achievement between levels once the threshold has been achieved.
The Derby Employment Agreement also provides that Ms. Derby will receive a stipend of $265,000 (the “Stipend”) in lieu of any moving, temporary housing or other similar cost, expense or compensation loss she may incur, with one-half of the Stipend to be paid within 30 days of May 1, 2023 and the remainder being paid on or about November 1, 2023, less applicable taxes and withholdings. In the event that Ms. Derby voluntarily terminates her employment with the Company on or before May 1, 2024, she will be required to reimburse the Company the entire amount of the Stipend, less any taxes paid on the Stipend, and if Ms. Derby voluntarily terminates her employment after May 1, 2024 but on or before May 1, 2025, she will be required to reimburse the Company one-half of the amount of the Stipend, less any taxes paid on the Stipend.
The Derby Employment Agreement further provides that if within one year following a Change of Control (as defined in the Derby Employment Agreement), Ms. Derby's employment is terminated by the Company or Carrols Corporation (or any successor to the Company or Carrols Corporation after the Change of Control) without Cause (as defined in the Derby Employment Agreement) or by Ms. Derby for Good Reason (as defined in the Derby Employment Agreement), then Ms. Derby will be entitled to receive (a) thirty (30) days after such termination of employment, Ms. Derby's accrued but unpaid base salary, any unreimbursed businesses expenses and any unused vacation time which has accrued during the year in which her employment is terminated, in each case as of the date of termination, (b) any accrued and unpaid annual bonus under the Executive Bonus Plan with respect to any prior year at such time as provided under the Executive Bonus Plan but in no event later than the March 15 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which her employment terminates; (c) any other amounts or benefits owing to Ms. Derby under the terms of any employee benefit plan of the Company or, in the case of equity-based compensation awards, under the terms of the equity award plan or applicable award agreement; (d) any amounts Ms. Derby may be entitled to pursuant to the Company’s Deferred Compensation Plan, (e) a lump sum payment in an amount equal to the product of 18 and Ms. Derby's monthly base salary at the then current rate and (f) an amount equal to the aggregate annual bonus payment under the Company’s Executive Bonus Plan for the year in which Ms. Derby incurs a termination of employment to which Ms. Derby would otherwise have been entitled had her employment not been terminated.
The Derby Employment Agreement also provides that if prior to a Change of Control or more than one year after a Change of Control, Ms. Derby's employment is terminated by the Company or Carrols Corporation without Cause or by Ms. Derby for Good Reason, then Ms. Derby will be entitled to receive (i) thirty (30) days after such termination of employment, Ms. Derby's accrued but unpaid base salary, any unreimbursed businesses expenses and any unused vacation time which has accrued during the year in which her employment is terminated, in each case as of the date of termination, (ii) any accrued and unpaid annual bonus under the Executive Bonus Plan with respect to any prior year at such time as provided under the Executive Bonus Plan but in no event later than the March 15 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which her employment terminates; (iii) any other amounts or benefits owing to Ms. Derby under the terms of any employee benefit plan of the Company or, in the case of equity-based compensation awards, under the terms of the equity award plan or applicable award agreement; (iv) any amounts Ms. Derby may be entitled to pursuant to the Deferred Compensation Plan, (v) a payment in an amount equal to one year’s base salary at the then current rate and (vi) an amount equal to the pro rata portion of the aggregate annual bonus payment under the Company’s Executive Bonus Plan for the year in which Ms. Derby incurs a termination of employment to which Ms. Derby would otherwise have been entitled had her employment not been terminated, provided that Ms. Derby's right to receive any such payment or payments in subsection (v) and (vi) immediately above would terminate, and Ms. Derby would be obligated to return any such payment or payments previously received, if Ms. Derby, directly or indirectly, commences employment with, or serves as an owner, operator, manager, director, partner, member or stockholder (other than as a stockholder of not more than two percent (2%) of any class of securities registered under Section 12) of the Exchange Act of, or consultant, advisor or independent contractor to, a Competitor (as defined in the Derby Employment Agreement) within 12 months of the termination of her employment.
The Derby Employment Agreement further provides that if Ms. Derby's employment is terminated by Ms. Derby without Good Reason or by the Company or Carrols Corporation for Cause or due to death or Disability (as defined in the Derby Employment Agreement), Carrols Corporation (or any successor thereto) shall pay to Ms. Derby (1) thirty (30) days after such termination of employment, Ms. Derby's accrued but unpaid base salary, any unreimbursed businesses expenses and any unused vacation time which has accrued during the year in which her employment is terminated, in each case as of the date of termination, (2) any accrued and unpaid annual bonus under the Executive Bonus Plan with respect to the any prior year at such time as provided under the Executive Bonus Plan but in no event later than the March 15 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which her employment terminates, (3) solely with respect to Ms. Derby's termination for death or Disability, a pro-rata portion of any annual bonus payable under the Executive Bonus Plan for the year she dies or suffers a Disability payable no later than the March 15 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which her employment terminates, (4) any other amounts or benefits owing to Ms. Derby under the terms of any employee benefit plan of the Company or, in the case of equity-based compensation awards, under the terms of the equity award plan or applicable award agreement, and (5) any amounts the Executive may be entitled to pursuant to the Deferred Compensation Plan.
In addition, the Derby Employment Agreement provides that if Ms. Derby's employment is terminated by Carrols Corporation or the Company for any reason other than Cause or by Ms. Derby for Good Reason, she shall be entitled to elect to receive continued medical, dental and vision benefits under the same benefit plans as in effect for active executive officers of the Company for Ms. Derby and her spouse, dependents and beneficiaries eligible for coverage under such plans pursuant to Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), for a period of eighteen (18) months, subject to payment by Ms. Derby of the premiums charged to former employees of the Company pursuant to 4980B of the Code for continued benefit coverage for former employees and their eligible spouses, dependents and beneficiaries under such plans. Thereafter, the Company shall pay Ms. Derby an amount necessary for her to acquire such benefits under equivalent plans from an independent provider, net of the amount she would otherwise be required to pay under the preceding. The continued medical, dental and vision benefits do not extend beyond December 31 of the year in which Ms. Derby turns 65 years old and shall terminate if, at any time after the date of termination of her employment, Ms. Derby is employed by or is otherwise affiliated with a party that offers her substantially comparable medical, dental and vision benefits.
The Derby Employment Agreement also provides that (i) during Ms. Derby's employment with Carrols Corporation and for a period of twelve months thereafter, she will not, directly or indirectly, commence employment with, or serve as an owner, operator, manager, director, partner, member or stockholder (other than as a stockholder of not more than two percent (2%) of any class of securities registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act) of, or consultant, advisor or independent contractor to, any business or organization that is a Competitor within the United States and (ii) during Ms. Derby's employment with Carrols Corporation and for a period of two (2) years following termination of her employment, she will not solicit or employ any management-level employee who was employed by the Company or any of its subsidiaries within six months prior to the termination of her employment, in any business in which she has a material interest, direct or indirect, including, without limitation, as an owner, operator, manager, officer, director, partner, member, stockholder, consultant, advisor or independent contractor, subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Derby Employment Agreement.
Grants of Plan-Based Awards
The following table provides certain information regarding grants of plan-based awards made to the Named Executive Officers during the 2023 fiscal year ended December 31, 2023:
Estimated Future Payouts Under Equity Incentive Plan Awards(1)
Name Grant Date Threshold(#) Target(#) Maximum(#) All Other Stock Awards: Number of Shares of Stock or Units (#)(2)(3)
All Other Awards: Number of Securities Underlying Options (#) Exercise or Base Price of Option Awards ($/Sh) Grant Date Fair Value of Stock and Option Awards(4)
Deborah M. Derby(5)
1/15/2023 - - - 49,020 - $ - $ 100,001
Deborah M. Derby(5)
5/1/2023 - - - 417,320 - $ - $ 1,665,107
Deborah M. Derby(5)
7/1/2023 112,500 450,000 900,000 - - $ - $ 2,268,000
Deborah M. Derby(5)
12/15/2023 - - - 1,236 - $ - $ 8,998
Anthony E. Hull(6)
1/15/2023 - - - 137,868 - $ - $ 281,251
Anthony E. Hull(6)
7/1/2023 34,467 137,868 275,736 - - $ - $ 694,855
Anthony E. Hull(6)
12/15/2023 - - - 408 - $ - $ 2,970
Jared L. Landaw 1/15/2023 - - - 55,148 - $ - $ 112,502
Jared L. Landaw 7/1/2023 13,787 55,148 110,296 - - $ - $ 277,946
Jared L. Landaw 12/15/2023 - - - 152 - $ - $ 1,107
Joseph W. Hoffman 1/15/2023 - - - 55,148 - $ - $ 112,502
Joseph W. Hoffman 7/1/2023 13,787 55,148 110,296 - - $ - $ 277,946
Joseph W. Hoffman 12/15/2023 - - - 152 - $ - $ 1,107
Richard G. Cross 1/15/2023 - - - 34,927 - $ - $ 71,251
Richard G. Cross 7/1/2023 8,732 34,927 69,854 - - $ - $ 176,032
Richard G. Cross 12/15/2023 - - - 103 - $ - $ 750
(1)The threshold amounts reflect shares earned assuming 90% of the EBITDA performance criteria is met and 25% of granted shares are vested; the target amounts reflect shares earned assuming 100% of the EBITDA performance criteria is met and 100% of shares are vested; and the maximum amounts reflect shares earned assuming at least 136% of the EBITDA performance criteria is met and 200% of the shares are vested.
(2)Amounts shown in this column reflect the number of shares of restricted stock awarded to each Named Executive Officer under the Carrols plan during 2023. Other than for Ms. Derby's May 1, 2023 grant and for the July 1, 2023 performance-based restricted stock units, all such restricted stock awards vest over a period of three years, with 34% of the shares vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and 33% of such shares vesting on each of the next two subsequent anniversaries of the grant date. For Ms. Derby's May 1, 2023 grant, 34% of the shares will vest on the one year anniversary and 33% of such shares will vest on January 15 of the next two subsequent years following the grant.
(3)Awards granted on December 15, 2023 represent dividend equivalent units granted to the Named Executive Officers with outstanding time-based restricted stock units originally granted on March 9, 2021 as well as the Named Executive Officers with outstanding performance-based restricted stock units originally granted on July 1, 2023. The dividend equivalent units will vest in accordance with the original vest schedule established for the initial grant.
(4)These amounts reflect an estimate of the grant date fair value and may not correspond to the actual value that will be recognized by the Named Executive Officers. The value of the time-based restricted stock awards granted in 2023 is calculated by multiplying the number of restricted stock awarded by the market closing price of our common stock on the grant date. The grant date fair value for the time-based restricted stock awards was $2.04 on January 15, 2023 and $3.99 on May 1, 2023. For the July 1, 2023 performance-based restricted stock units, the grant date fair value was calculated by multiplying target shares granted by the market closing price of our common stock on the grant date which was $5.04. For the December 15, 2023 dividend equivalent units, the grant date fair value was $7.28.
(5)Ms. Derby has served as our Chief Executive Officer since May 1, 2023.
(6)Mr. Hull has served as our interim President and Chief Executive Officer since December 31, 2022 and has served as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January 2020.
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End
The following tables set forth certain information with respect to the value of all Carrols Restaurant Group equity awards that were outstanding at the 2023 fiscal year end for each of the Named Executive Officers:
Stock Awards
Number of Shares
of Stock or Units
That Have Not
Vested(1)
(#)
Market Value of Shares
or Units of Stock That
Have Not Vested(2)
($)
Equity Incentive Awards:
Number of Unearned Shares,
Units or Other Rights That
Have Not Vested(3)
(#)
Equity Incentive Plan
Awards: Market or Payout
Value of Unearned Shares,
Units or Other Rights That
Have Not Vested(2)
($)
Deborah M. Derby(4)(5)
494,626 $ 3,897,653 451,236 $ 3,555,740
Anthony E. Hull(6)(7)(8)
305,324 $ 2,405,953 138,247 $ 1,089,386
Jared L. Landaw(9)
129,398 $ 1,019,656 55,300 $ 435,764
Joseph W. Hoffman(7)
94,748 $ 746,614 55,300 $ 435,764
Richard G. Cross(7)(8)
78,724 $ 620,345 35,023 $ 275,981
Option Awards
Name Number of Securities Underlying Options (#) Exercisable Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Unexercisable Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Unearned Options (#) Option Exercise Price
($) Option Expiration
Date
Deborah M. Derby - - - $ - -
Anthony E. Hull(8)(10)
100,000 - - $ 7.12 8/12/2027
Jared L. Landaw - - - $ - -
Joseph W. Hoffman(10)
75,000 - - $ 7.12 8/12/2027
Richard G. Cross(10)
75,000 - - $ 7.12 8/12/2027
(1)Represents restricted shares of common stock.
(2)The market value of the time-based restricted stock awards and performance awards was determined based on the closing price of our common stock on the last trading day of the 2023 fiscal year, December 31, 2023, which was $7.88.
(3)Represents performance-based restricted stock units and related dividend equivalent shares issuable under the performance-based restricted stock units award (the "PSU") granted on July 1, 2023 that vests in full on February 26, 2026. The PSU's represent the right to receive a variable number of shares based on the Company's attainment of certain performance-based objectives during the three year measurement period that covers fiscal 2023 through fiscal 2025. Given the Company's performance in 2023, the performance-based objectives were achieved for maximum attainment, which will result in delivery of 200% of the PSU's.
(4)Ms. Derby has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since May 1, 2023.
(5)In January 2023, we granted restricted stock awards to Ms. Derby in her capacity as a director pursuant to the Carrols plan. The restricted stock award vests over a period of three years with 34% of such restricted shares vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and 33% vesting on the second and third anniversaries of the grant date. In May 2023, we granted a restricted stock award to Ms. Derby pursuant to the Derby Employment Agreement and the Carrols plan. The restricted stock award vests over a period of three years with 34% of the restricted shares vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and 33% vesting on each of January 15, 2025 and January 15, 2026.
(6)Mr. Hull served as our interim President and Chief Executive Officer from December 31, 2022 until April 30, 2023 and has served as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January 2020.
(7)In January 2021, January 2022 and January 2023, we granted restricted stock awards to these Named Executive Officers pursuant to the Carrols plan. These restricted stock awards vest over a period of three years with 34% of such restricted
shares vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and 33% vesting on the second and third anniversaries of the grant date.
(8)In March 2021, we awarded restricted stock units to these Named Executive Officers pursuant to the Executive Bonus Plan attributed to performance in the 2020 fiscal period. For this period, 50% of the Earned EBITDA bonus was paid in cash and 50% was awarded in restricted stock units that are being delivered annually over a three-year vesting period. All restricted stock units vest annually in equal installments over three years with accelerated vesting for any event of termination other than for cause.
(9)In February 2021, we granted a restricted stock award to Mr. Landaw pursuant to the Carrols plan. The restricted stock award vests over a period of three years with 34% of the restricted shares vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and 33% vesting on each of January 15, 2023 and January 15, 2024. In January 2022 and January 2023, we granted a restricted stock award to Mr. Landaw pursuant to the Carrols plan. The restricted stock award vests over a period of three years with 34% of such restricted shares vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and 33% vesting on the second and third anniversaries of the grant date.
(10)In August 2020, we awarded stock options to these Named Executive Officers pursuant to the Carrols plan. All such stock option awards vest over a period of three years, with one-third vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and one-third vesting on each subsequent anniversary of the grant date, and will expire seven years after the grant date.
Options Exercised and Stock Vested
The following table summarizes the options exercised and vesting of restricted stock awards for each of our Named Executive Officers during the 2023 fiscal year ended December 31, 2023:
Option Awards Stock Awards
Name Number of Shares Acquired on Exercise
(#) Value Realized on Exercise
($) Number of Shares Acquired on Vesting
(#) Value Realized on Vesting
($)(1)
Deborah M. Derby(2)
- $ - 22,930 $ 46,777
Anthony E. Hull(2)
- $ - 185,927 $ 381,213
Jared L. Landaw - $ - 50,250 $ 102,510
Joseph W. Hoffman - $ - 30,200 $ 61,608
Richard G. Cross - $ - 36,040 $ 73,979
(1)Represents the per-share market price of our common stock on the vesting date multiplied by the number of shares vested.
(2)Ms. Derby has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since May 1, 2023.
(3)Mr. Hull served as our interim President and Chief Executive Officer from December 31, 2022 until April 30, 2023 and has served as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January 2020.
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation
We have a deferred compensation plan for employees not eligible to participate in the Carrols Corporation Retirement Savings Plan, which we refer to as the “Deferred Compensation Plan”, because they have been excluded as “highly compensated” employees (as so defined in the Deferred Compensation Plan), to voluntarily defer portions of their base salary and annual bonus. An eligible employee may elect to defer all or a specified percentage of base salary and, if applicable, all or a specified percentage of cash bonuses. All amounts deferred by the participants earn interest at 8% per annum. We do not match any portion of the funds. All of the Named Executive Officers are or were eligible to participate in our Deferred Compensation Plan.
The following table describes contributions, earnings and balances at December 31, 2023 under our Deferred Compensation Plan:
Name Executive Contributions in Last FY
($) Registrant Contributions in Last FY
($) Aggregate Earnings in Last FY
($)(1)
Aggregate Withdrawals/Distributions
($) Aggregate Balance at Last FYE
($)
Deborah M. Derby(2)
$ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Anthony E. Hull(3)
$ 26,000 $ - $ 5,063 $ - $ 80,486
Jared L. Landaw $ 44,500 $ - $ 5,200 $ - $ 88,801
Joseph W. Hoffman $ 25,000 $ - $ 9,778 $ - $ 137,223
Richard G. Cross $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
(1)Earnings represent the interest earned on amounts deferred at 8.0% per annum.
(2)Ms. Derby has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since May 1, 2023.
(3)Mr. Hull served as our interim President and Chief Executive Officer from December 31, 2022 until April 30, 2023 and has served as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January 2020.
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-of-Control
We have not utilized formal employment agreements for our Named Executive Officers with the exception of our CEO, Ms. Derby. Employment arrangements for our Named Executive Officers are governed by the terms of their individual employment offers, where applicable, as well as change of control/severance agreements entered into with Mr. Cross in 2013, Mr. Hull and Mr. Landaw in 2021.
Messrs. Hull and Landaw are each, subject to an employment letter that was entered into when they each joined the Company. Mr. Hoffman is subject to a promotion letter that was entered into upon his promotion to Chief Restaurant Officer effective January 1, 2023. These employment letters provided for initial base salaries and initial annual bonus targets and also provided that each individual would be eligible to receive equity awards under the Company’s long-term incentive award program in effect for other senior executives. Mr. Cross first joined the Company in a non-executive role and does not have an employment arrangement with the Company. The Compensation Committee reviews and updates the compensation arrangements for Ms. Derby and Messrs. Hull, Landaw, Cross and Hoffman on an annual basis.
The Named Executive Officers have received equity awards under the Carrols plan, which allows for the accelerated vesting of certain awards in connection with a qualifying termination event. Upon a change of control of the Company, all participants unvested shares will be accelerated and become vested.
Additionally, we may from time-to-time offer a severance benefit arrangement for terminated or separated executives as part of a negotiated termination of employment in exchange for a release of claims against the Company and other covenants determined to be in the best interests of the Company.
Derby Employment Agreement
On April 12, 2023, the Company and Carrols Corporation entered into the Derby Employment Agreement with Ms. Derby. The description of any payments upon termination of employment or change of control under the Derby Employment Agreement is described under "-, Summary Compensation Table."
Change of Control/Severance Agreements
On June 3, 2013, we, Carrols Corporation ("Carrols") and Carrols LLC entered into a change of control and severance agreement, which we refer to as the “change of control and severance agreement”, with Mr. Cross. This change of control and severance agreement provides that if within one year following a “change of control” (as defined in the change of control and severance agreement), such employee’s employment is terminated by us, Carrols or Carrols LLC without “cause” (as defined in the change of control and severance agreement) or by such employee for “good reason” (as defined in the change of control and severance agreement), then such employee will be entitled to receive (a) a cash lump sum payment in the amount equal to the product of 18 and the employee’s monthly base salary at the then current rate plus interest at an annual rate equal to the Prime Rate (as defined in the change of control and severance agreement) plus three percent, (b) an amount equal to the aggregate bonus payment for the year in which the employee incurs a termination of employment to which the employee would otherwise have been entitled had his employment not terminated under the Executive Bonus Plan then in effect, and (c) continued coverage under our welfare and benefits plans for such employee and his dependents for a period of up to 18 months. The change of control and severance agreement also provides that if at any time other than within one year following a change of control, such employee’s employment is terminated by us, Carrols or Carrols LLC without cause or by such employee for good reason, then such employee will be entitled to receive (a) a cash lump sum payment in the amount equal to one year’s salary at the then current rate, (b) an amount equal to the pro rata portion of the aggregate bonus payment for the year in which the employee incurs a termination of employment to which the employee would otherwise have been entitled had his employment not terminated under our Executive Bonus Plan then in effect, and (c) continued coverage under our welfare and benefits plans for such employee and his dependents for a period of up to 18 months. The payments and benefits due under the change of control and severance agreement cannot be reduced by any compensation earned by the employee as a result of employment by another employer or otherwise. The payments are also not subject to any set-off, counterclaim, recoupment, defense or other right that we, Carrols or Carrols LLC may have against the employee. The initial term of the change of control and severance agreement ends on December 31, 2014 and is automatically extended for additional one year periods unless either the employee, on the one hand, or the Company, Carrols or Carrols LLC, on the other hand, provides a notice of non-renewal at least 90 days prior to the expiration of the initial term or applicable renewal period, or unless terminated sooner in accordance with the terms of the change of control and severance agreement.
On June 30, 2021 and December 15, 2021, the Company, Carrols Holdco, Carrols and Carrols LLC entered into a Change of Control and Severance Agreement, which we refer to as the “2021 change of control and severance agreement” with each of Messrs. Hull and Mr. Landaw, respectively. Each 2021 change of control and severance agreement provides that if within one year following a Change of Control (as defined in the 2021 change of control and severance agreement), such employee’s employment is terminated by the Company or Carrols LLC without Cause (as defined in the 2021 change of control and severance agreement) or by such employee for Good Reason (as defined in the 2021 change of control and severance agreement), then such employee will be entitled to receive (a) a lump sum payment in the amount equal to the product of 18 and the employee’s monthly base salary at the then current rate plus interest at an annual rate equal to the Prime Rate (as defined in the 2021 change of control and severance agreement) plus three percent, (b) an amount equal to the aggregate bonus payment under the Company’s executive bonus plan for the year in which the employee incurs a termination of employment to which the employee would otherwise have been entitled had his employment not been terminated payable in a lump sum, and (c) continued coverage under the Company’s welfare and benefits plans for such employee and his dependents for a period of up to 12 months. Each 2021 change of control and severance agreement also provides that if prior to a change of control or more than one year after a change of control, such employee’s employment is terminated by the Company or Carrols LLC without Cause or by such employee for Good Reason, then such employee will be entitled to receive (i) a payment in the amount equal to one year’s base salary at the then current rate as further described in the 2021 change of control and severance agreement, (ii) an amount equal to the pro rata portion of the aggregate bonus payment under the Company’s executive bonus plan for the year in which the employee incurs a termination of employment to which the employee would otherwise have been entitled had his employment not been terminated payable in a lump sum, and (iii) continued coverage under the Company’s welfare and benefits plans for such employee and his dependents for a period of up to 12 months. The payments and benefits due under the 2021 change of control and severance agreement cannot be reduced by any compensation earned by the employee as a result of employment by another employer or otherwise, except that the employee’s right to receive any outstanding payments described in (i) and (ii) above would terminate if the employee commences employment
with, or serves as a director of, or consultant or independent contractor to, any business operating a quick-service restaurant which features a hamburger or chicken as the primary or central menu item. The initial term of the 2021 change of control and severance agreement ends on December 31, 2021 and is automatically extended for additional one year periods unless either the employee, on the one hand, or the Company, Carrols Holdco, Carrols or Carrols LLC, on the other hand, provides a notice of non-renewal at least 90 days prior to the expiration of the initial term or applicable renewal period, or unless terminated sooner in accordance with the terms of the 2021 change of control and severance agreement.
The following table summarizes estimated benefits that would have been payable to Ms. Derby, Mr. Hull, Mr. Cross, and Mr. Landaw if the employment of such Named Executive Officer had been terminated on December 31, 2023 (1) by us without cause or by the Named Executive Officer for good reason within one year after a change of control; (2) by us without cause or by the Named Executive Officer for good reason prior to a change of control or more than one year after a change of control, (3) due to death or disability, (4) by the Named Executive Officer voluntarily or due to retirement or (5) by us for cause:
Terminated
Without Cause or
by Employee for
Good Reason Within
12 Months Following a
Change in Control
($) Terminated
Without Cause
or by Employee
for Good Reason
Prior to a Change in
Control or More
Than One Year After
a Change in Control
($) Termination
Due to
Death or
Disability
($) Voluntary
Termination or
Retirement
($) Termination
for Cause
($)
Deborah M. Derby(1)
Severance $ 975,006 (2)
$ 650,004 (3)
$ - $ - $ -
Bonus $ 758,333 (4)
$ 758,333 (5)
$ 758,333 (6)
$ 758,333 (6)
$ -
Accrued Vacation(7)
$ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ -
Welfare Benefits(8)
$ 31,976 $ 31,976 $ - $ - $ -
Deferred Compensation Plan $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Equity(9)
$ 7,453,393 $ 7,453,393 $ 7,453,393 $ - $ -
Total $ 9,268,708 $ 8,943,706 $ 8,261,726 $ 808,333 $ -
Anthony E. Hull(10)
Severance $ 1,031,063 (11)
$ 687,379 (12)
$ - $ - $ -
Bonus $ 1,137,507 (4)
$ 1,137,507 (13)
$ 1,137,507 (6)
$ 1,137,507 (6)
$ -
Accrued Vacation(7)
$ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ -
Welfare Benefits(14)
$ 54,161 $ 54,161 $ - $ - $ -
Deferred Compensation Plan $ 80,486 $ 80,486 $ 80,486 $ 80,486 $ 80,486
Equity(9)
$ 3,495,339 $ 3,495,339 $ 3,495,339 $ 84,363 $ -
Total $ 5,848,556 $ 5,504,872 $ 4,763,332 $ 1,352,356 $ 80,486
Jared L. Landaw
Severance $ 634,500 (11)
$ 422,996 (12)
$ - $ - $ -
Bonus $ 360,000 (4)
$ 360,000 (13)
$ 360,000 (6)
$ 360,000 (6)
$ -
Accrued Vacation(7)
$ 30,769 $ 30,769 $ - $ 30,769 $ -
Welfare Benefits(14)
$ 3,965 $ 3,965 $ - $ - $ -
Deferred Compensation Plan $ 88,801 $ 88,801 $ 88,801 $ 88,801 $ 88,801
Equity(9)
$ 1,455,420 $ 1,455,420 $ 1,455,420 $ - $ -
Total $ 2,573,455 $ 2,361,951 $ 1,904,221 $ 479,570 $ 88,801
Richard G. Cross
Severance $ 594,844 (11)
$ 396,563 (12)
$ - $ - $ -
Bonus $ 337,500 (4)
$ 337,500 (13)
$ 337,500 (6)
$ 337,500 (6)
$ -
Accrued Vacation(7)
$ 28,846 $ 28,846 $ 28,846 $ 28,846 $ -
Welfare Benefits(8)
$ 30,814 $ 30,814 $ - $ - $ -
Deferred Compensation Plan $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Equity(9)
$ 896,326 $ 896,326 $ 896,326 $ 20,070 $ -
Total $ 1,888,330 $ 1,690,049 $ 1,262,672 $ 386,416 $ -
(1)Ms. Derby has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since May 1, 2023.
(2)Reflects a cash lump sum payment in an amount equal to 18 multiplied by the amount of the Named Executive Officer’s monthly base salary in effect at December 31, 2023
(3)Reflects a cash lump sum payment in the amount equal to one year of base salary in effect at December 31, 2023.
(4)Reflects an amount equal to the aggregate bonus payment for the year in which the Named Executive Officer incurs a termination of employment to which the Named Executive Officer would otherwise have been entitled had the Named Executive Officer's employment not terminated under the Executive Bonus Plan in effect at December 31, 2023. Such payment would be made no later than March 15th of the calendar year following the calendar year the Named Executive Officer’s employment is terminated.
(5)Reflects an amount equal to the portion of the aggregate bonus payment for the year in which the Named Executive Officer incurs a termination of employment to which the Named Executive Officer would otherwise have been entitled had the Named Executive Officer's employment not terminated under the Executive Bonus Plan in effect at December 31, 2023.
(6)Reflects an amount equal to the aggregate bonus payment unpaid at December 31, 2023 for 2023 for which the Named Executive Officer would be entitled to be paid as the Named Executive Officer was employed at the end of the calendar year. Amount represents the bonus earned for fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
(7)Amount represents four weeks of accrued but unpaid vacation as of December 31, 2023 based on the annual salary in effect on December 31, 2023 for each respective Named Executive Officer.
(8)Reflects continued coverage of group term life and disability insurance and group health and dental plan coverage for such Named Executive Officer and the Named Executive Officer's dependents for a period of 18 months based on rates in effect at December 31, 2023 without discounting.
(9)In accordance with the Carrols plan, all unvested shares of restricted stock, unvested restricted stock units and unvested stock options will automatically vest if the participant’s employment terminates due to death, disability or involuntary termination, and in the case of stock options, remain exercisable for a period of one year from the date of such death or disability or until the expiration of the stated term of the stock options, whichever is shorter. All restricted stock units will vest upon the termination of the participant for any reason other than for cause.
The amounts represent, where applicable, the vesting of outstanding shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units held at December 31, 2023 based on the closing price of our common stock on the last trading day of our 2023 fiscal year, December 31, 2023, which was $7.88.
Under award agreements pursuant to the Carrols plan, any unvested shares of stock, unvested restricted stock units and unvested stock options will automatically vest in the event of a change of control, even if the participant’s employment is not terminated following a change of control.
(10)Mr. Hull served as our interim President and Chief Executive Officer from December 31, 2022 until April 30, 2023 and has served as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January 2020.
(11)Reflects a cash lump sum payment in an amount equal to 18 multiplied by the amount of the Named Executive Officer’s monthly base salary in effect at December 31, 2023 plus interest of 11.50% per annum (determined as the prime commercial rate established by the principal lending bank at December 31, 2023 of 8.50% plus 3%) until the time of payment which would be the fifth business day following the six month anniversary of termination.
(12)Reflects a cash lump sum payment in the amount equal to one year of base salary in effect at December 31, 2023 plus interest of 11.50% per annum (determined as the prime commercial rate established by the principal lending bank at December 31, 2023 of 8.50% plus 3%) until the time of payment which would be half on the fifth business day following the six month anniversary of termination and then monthly for the six months following.
(13)Reflects an amount equal to the pro-rata portion of the aggregate bonus payment for the year in which the Named Executive Officer incurs a termination of employment to which the Named Executive Officer would otherwise have been entitled had the Named Executive Officer's employment not terminated under the Executive Bonus Plan in effect at December 31, 2023.
(14)Reflects continued coverage of group term life and disability insurance and group health and dental plan coverage for such Named Executive Officer and the Named Executive Officer's dependents for a period of 12 months based on rates in effect at December 31, 2023 without discounting.
Hull Offer Letter
Pursuant to an offer letter dated November 20, 2019 between the Company and Mr. Hull, Mr. Hull is entitled to be paid an annual base salary of $550,000 and is eligible to receive discretionary annual increases based on his performance. Mr. Hull is also eligible to participate in the Company’s Executive Bonus Plan and is entitled to a bonus target of 100% of his annual base salary subject to the terms of the Company’s Executive Bonus Plan. Pursuant to the offer letter, Mr. Hull was granted 250,000 shares of restricted stock on January 15, 2020. In addition, Mr. Hull is entitled to receive a reimbursement from the Company for travel expenses for Mr. Hull and his spouse to visit family of up to $25,000 in the first year of employment with the Company and up to $10,000 in any subsequent year.
Landaw Offer Letter
Pursuant to an offer letter dated January 13, 2021 between the Company and Mr. Landaw, Mr. Landaw is entitled to be paid an annual base salary of $300,000 and is eligible to receive discretionary annual increases based on his performance. Mr. Landaw is also eligible to participate in the Company’s Executive Bonus Plan and is entitled to a bonus target of 60% of his annual base salary subject to the terms of the Company’s Executive Bonus Plan. Pursuant to the offer letter, Mr. Landaw was granted 75,000 shares of restricted stock on February 8, 2021. He also received a $75,000 stipend in lieu of any moving, rent, relinquished bonus or similar payments, grossed up to cover any tax liabilities.
Hoffman Promotion Letter
Pursuant to a promotion letter dated December 30, 2022 between the Company and Mr. Hoffman, Mr. Hoffman is entitled to be paid an annual base salary of $400,000 and is eligible to receive discretionary annual increases based on his performance. He is also eligible to participate in the Company’s Executive Bonus Plan and is entitled to a bonus target of 60% of his annual base salary subject to the terms of the Company’s Executive Bonus Plan, all effective upon his promotion on January 1, 2023. On January 10, 2024, the Company entered into a Change of Control and Severance Agreement that provides benefits the same as Mr. Landaw and Mr. Hull.
The following table summarizes estimated benefits that would have been payable to Mr. Hoffman (a) if his employment had been terminated on December 31, 2023 (i) by us without cause, (ii) by us for cause, (iii) upon death or disability, (iv) upon a change of control of the Company, or (v) upon voluntary termination or retirement:
Terminated
Without Cause
($) Termination
for Cause
($) Termination
Due to
Death or
Disability
($) Change
of
Control
($) Voluntary
Termination or
Retirement
($)
Joseph W. Hoffman
Severance $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Bonus $ 360,000 (1)
$ - $ 360,000 (1)
$ - $ 360,000 (1)
Accrued Vacation(2)
$ 32,692 $ - $ 32,692 $ 32,692 $ 32,692
Welfare Benefits $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Deferred Compensation Plan $ 137,223 $ 137,223 $ 137,223 $ 137,223 $ 137,223
Equity(3)
$ 1,182,378 $ - $ 1,182,378 $ 1,182,378 $ 1,182,378
Total $ 1,712,293 $ 137,223 $ 1,712,293 $ 1,352,293 $ 1,712,293
(1)Reflects an amount equal to the aggregate bonus payment unpaid at December 31, 2023 for 2023 for which the Named Executive Officer would be entitled to be paid as he was employed as of the end of the calendar year. Amount represents the bonus earned for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
(2)Amount represents four weeks of accrued but unpaid vacation as of December 31, 2023 based on the annual salary in effect on December 31, 2023 .
(3)In accordance with the Carrols plan, all unvested shares of restricted stock, unvested restricted stock units and unvested stock options will automatically vest if the participant’s employment terminates due to death, disability or involuntary termination, and in the case of stock options, remain exercisable for a period of one year from the date of such death or disability or until the expiration of the stated term of the stock options, whichever is shorter. All restricted stock units will vest upon the termination of the participant for any reason other than for cause.
The amounts represent, where applicable, the vesting of outstanding shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units held at December 31, 2023 based on the closing price of our common stock on the last trading day of our 2023 fiscal year, December 31, 2023, which was $7.88.
Director Compensation
We use a combination of cash and stock-based compensation to attract and retain qualified non-employee directors to serve on our Board of Directors. The members of the Board of Directors, except for any member who is an executive officer or employee, each receive a fee for serving on our Board of Directors or Board committees. In March 2016, the Compensation Committee engaged the services of Pearl Meyer, an outside independent compensation consultant, to assist the Compensation Committee with a review of the compensation for executive officers and directors of the Company. Based upon a report and recommendations received from Pearl Meyer, the recommendations of the Compensation Committee and other findings, our Board of Directors made certain changes to director compensation, all of which were effective January 1, 2017.
Non-employee directors receive compensation for Board service as follows:
•Annual retainer of $60,000 for serving as a director.
•The chair of the Audit Committee receives an additional fee of $18,000 per year and each other member of the Audit Committee receives an additional fee of $7,500 per year. The chair of the Compensation Committee receives an additional fee of $10,000 per year and each other member of the Compensation Committee receives an additional fee of $5,000 per year. The chair of the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee receives an additional fee of $5,000 per year and each other member of the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee receives an additional fee of $3,000 per year. All directors will be reimbursed for all reasonable expenses they incur while acting as directors, including as members of any committee of the Board of Directors.
•Effective December 1, 2023, the Special Committee members receive an additional $5,000 per month and the chair of the Special Committee receives an additional $10,000 per month.
•Pursuant to the Carrols plan, in January of each year members of our Board of Directors (except for any member who is an executive officer or employee and except for the two Class D directors) will receive an annual restricted stock award with an aggregate “fair market value” (as such term is defined in the Carrols plan) of $100,000 on the date of grant pursuant to the Carrols plan.
In connection with the appointment of David S. Harris as the non-executive Chairman of the Company's Board of Directors on April 1, 2022, our Board determined that the non-executive Chairman will receive an additional annual restricted stock award with an aggregate “fair market value” (as such term is defined in the Carrols plan) of $35,000 in January of each year pursuant to the Carrols plan.
The following table summarizes the compensation we paid to our non-employee directors during the 2023 fiscal year. Compensation information for Deborah M. Derby, our President and CEO as of May 1, 2023, is set forth in the Summary Compensation Table above.
Name Fees Earned or Paid in Cash(1)
($)
Stock Award
($)(2)
Option Award
($) Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation
($) Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings
($) All Other Compensation
($) Total
($)
Hannah S. Craven $ 82,500 $ 100,001 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 182,501
Thomas B. Curtis (3)
$ 60,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 60,000
Deborah M. Derby $ 22,775 $ 100,001 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 122,776
Matthew Dunnigan (3)
$ 60,000 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 60,000
David S. Harris $ 87,725 $ 135,001 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 222,726
Lawrence E. Hyatt $ 86,000 $ 100,001 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 186,001
Matthew Perelman $ 73,000 $ 100,001 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 173,001
Alexander Sloane $ 73,000 $ 100,001 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 173,001
John D. Smith(4)
$ 70,000 $ 150,001 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 220,001
(1)The amounts listed in this column include the payment of annual retainers and additional fees for committee service.
(2)On January 15, 2023, Ms. Craven, Ms. Derby, Mr. Hyatt, Mr. Perelman and Mr. Sloane were each granted 49,020 restricted shares of common stock each valued at $2.81 per share under the Carrols plan. These shares of restricted stock vest over a period of three years with 34% of such shares vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and 33% vesting on each of January 15, 2025 and January 15, 2026, provided that the participant has continuously remained a director of the Company.
On January 15, 2023, Mr. Harris was granted 66,177 restricted shares of common stock each valued at $2.81 per share under the Carrols plan. These shares of restricted stock vest over a period of three years with 34% of such shares vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and 33% vesting on each of January 15, 2025 and January 15, 2026.
On January 15, 2023, Mr. Smith was granted 73,530 restricted shares of common stock each valued at $2.81 per share under the Carrols plan. These shares of restricted stock vest over a period of three years with 34% of such shares vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and 33% vesting on each of January 15, 2025 and January 15, 2026.
The amounts shown in this column represent the aggregate fair value of restricted common stock granted and approved by the Compensation Committee and is consistent with the grant date fair value of the award computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. See Notes 1 and 11 of the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023.
(3)Mr. Curtis and Mr. Dunnigan are Class D director designees of BKC pursuant to the terms of the Series D Preferred Stock.
(4)The shares granted to Mr. Smith include the pro-rata compensation payable in 2022 for serving as a member of the Board of Directors beginning June 17, 2022.
The following table represents the number of unvested restricted stock awards held by each of our non-employee directors as of December 31, 2023:
Name Outstanding Stock Awards (#)
Hannah S. Craven 77,306
Thomas B. Curtis -
Deborah M. Derby 77,306
Matthew Dunnigan -
David S. Harris 103,079
Lawrence E. Hyatt 77,306
Matthew Perelman 78,219
Alexander Sloane 78,219
John D. Smith 73,530

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ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The following table provides information regarding beneficial ownership of our common stock as of March 1, 2024 and to reflect the conversion of Series D Preferred Stock into shares of our common stock by:
•each stockholder known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of our outstanding shares of common stock;
•each of our directors, nominees for director and Named Executive Officers (as defined in “Executive Compensation-Compensation Discussion and Analysis” herein) individually; and
•all directors and executive officers as a group.
There were 54,971,038 shares of our common stock outstanding on March 1, 2024 (without giving effect to the conversion of Series D Preferred Stock).
Unless noted otherwise, to our knowledge, each of the following persons listed below have sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares of common stock beneficially owned, except to the extent that authority is shared by spouses or others under applicable law or otherwise.
The information contained in this table reflects “beneficial ownership” as defined in Rule 13d-3 of the Exchange Act. Beneficial ownership includes (i) shares of common stock which a person has either sole or shared voting power or investment power and also any shares the person has the right to acquire within 60 days following March 1, 2024 through the exercise any stock option or other right, including options to officers and directors authorized by Board resolution, but not yet issued, and (ii) shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series D Preferred Stock held by a person that were convertible on March 1, 2024 or convertible within 60 days following that date. However, such shares are not considered outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person except as otherwise indicated with respect to the Series D Preferred Stock, nor is there any obligation to exercise any of the options or to convert the Series D Preferred Stock. Except as otherwise indicated, the address for each beneficial owner is c/o Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., 968 James Street, Syracuse, NY 13203.
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership
Percent of Class Percent of Class Giving Effect to the Conversion of Series D Preferred Stock(1)
Cambridge Franchise Holdings, LLC(2)
10,442,310 19.0 % 16.2 %
Cambridge Franchise Partners, LLC
Matthew Perelman
Alexander Sloane
Restaurant Brands International Inc.(3)
9,414,580 - % 14.6 %
Restaurant Brands International Limited Partnership
BlackRock, Inc.(4)
3,419,320 6.2 % 5.3 %
Deborah M. Derby(5)
672,968 1.2 % 1.0 %
Anthony E. Hull(6)
672,496 1.2 % 1.0 %
Jared L. Landaw 176,882 * *
Joseph W. Hoffman(7)
276,243 * *
Richard G. Cross(8)
352,999 * *
David S. Harris 267,787 * *
Hannah S. Craven 170,393 * *
Lawrence E. Hyatt 147,399 * *
John D. Smith 85,407 * *
Thomas B. Curtis (9)
- - % - %
Matthew Dunnigan(9)
- - % - %
Matthew Perelman(10)
10,737,421 19.5 % 16.7 %
Alexander Sloane(11)
10,606,471 19.3 % 16.5 %
All directors and executive officers as a group(12)
14,064,806 25.4 % 21.7 %
* Less than 1.0%.
(1)Percentages calculated on the basis of a number of shares of our common stock outstanding equal to the sum of (i) 54,971,038, the number of shares of our common stock outstanding as of March 1, 2024, and (ii) 9,414,580, the number of shares of our common stock that would be issuable upon the conversion of all of the outstanding shares of Series D Preferred Stock.
(2)Information was obtained from a Schedule 13D/A (Amended No. 6) filed on January 17, 2024 with the SEC. Cambridge Holdings and CFP each has sole voting power and sole dispositive power over 0 shares of our common stock and shared voting power and shared dispositive power over 10,442,310 shares of our common stock. The address for each of Cambridge Holdings and CFP is 853 Broadway, Suite 1605, New York, New York 10003.
(3)Information was obtained from a Schedule 13D/A (Amendment No. 4) filed on January 11, 2024 with the SEC. BKC and Burger King International, LLC, another affiliate of RBI, beneficially own an aggregate of 9,414,580 shares of our common stock issuable upon the conversion of shares of Series D Preferred Stock. RBI and Restaurant Brands International Limited Partnership (“RBI LP”) each has sole voting power over 9,414,580 shares, sole dispositive power over 9,414,580 shares and shared voting and shared dispositive power over 0 shares. The address for RBI and RBI LP is 130 King Street West, Suite 300, P.O. Box 399, Toronto, Ontario M5X 1E1 Canada.
(4)Information was obtained from a Schedule 13G filed on January 29, 2024 with the SEC. BlackRock, Inc. has sole voting power over 3,297,518 shares of our common stock and sole dispositive power over 3,419,320 shares of our common stock and shared voting power and shared dispositive power over 0 shares of our common stock. The address for BlackRock, Inc. is 50 Hudson Yards, New York, New York 10001.
(5)Ms. Derby has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since May 1, 2023.
(6)Includes shares of common stock issuable pursuant to 10,706 restricted stock units and 100,000 vested stock options. Mr. Hull has served as our interim President and Chief Executive Officer since December 31, 2022 until April 30, 2023 and has served as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January 2020.
(7)Includes 75,000 vested stock options.
(8)Includes shares of common stock issuable pursuant to 2,547 restricted stock units and 75,000 vested stock options.
(9)The address of Mr. Curtis and Mr. Dunnigan is 130 King Street West, Suite 300, Toronto, ON A6 M5X1E1, Canada.
(10)Includes 295,111 shares of our common stock held directly by Mr. Perelman and 10,442,310 shares of common stock held by Cambridge Holdings and CFP. Mr. Perelman and Mr. Sloane are the managing principals of CFP, which is the sole member and manager of Cambridge Holdings. Accordingly, each of Mr. Perelman and Mr. Sloane may be deemed to beneficially own the securities of the Company held by CFP. The address for each of Mr. Perelman and Mr. Sloane is 853 Broadway, Suite 1605, New York, New York 10003.
(11)Includes 164,161 shares of our common stock held directly by Mr. Sloane and 10,442,310 shares of common stock held by Cambridge Holdings and CFP. Mr. Perelman and Mr. Sloane are the managing principals of CFP, which is the sole member and manager of Cambridge Holdings. Accordingly, each of Mr. Perelman and Mr. Sloane may be deemed to beneficially own the securities of the Company held by CFP. The address for each of Mr. Perelman and Mr. Sloane is 853 Broadway, Suite 1605, New York, New York 10003.
(12)Includes (i) 127,964 beneficially owned shares of our common stock held by Nathan Mucher, who is our Vice President and Chief Information Officer, which includes shares of common stock pursuant to 2,205 restricted stock units and 25,000 vested stock options (ii) 77,396 beneficially owned shares of our common stock held by Ahmad Filsoof, who is our Vice President, Strategic Initiatives (iii) 121,290 beneficially owned shares of our common stock held by Gretta B. Miles, who is our Vice President, Controller, which includes 25,000 vested stock options (iv) 14,000 beneficially owned shares of our common stock held by Gary McQuillan, who is our Vice President, Strategic Procurement and (v) in aggregate, shares of common stock issuable pursuant to 15,458 restricted stock units and 300,000 vested stock options (inclusive of those held by and Mr. Mucher and Ms. Miles).
Equity Compensation Plans
The following table summarizes, as of December 31, 2023, the equity compensation plans under which our common stock may be issued to our directors, officers and employees. Our stockholders approved all plans.
Number of Securities to be Issued Upon Exercise of Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights Weighted-Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding
Options, Warrants
and Rights Number of Securities Remaining Available for Future Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders 925,000 $7.12 2,433,999
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders - - -
Total 925,000 $7.12 2,433,999

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ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
Related Party Transaction Procedures
The Board of Directors has assigned responsibility for reviewing related party transactions to our Audit Committee. The Board of Directors and the Audit Committee have adopted a written policy pursuant to which related party transactions must be submitted to the Audit Committee for review and approval as required by the rules of the SEC. The Audit Committee reports to the Board of Directors on all related party transactions reviewed by the committee.
Series D Preferred Stock
On May 30, 2012, we and Carrols LLC, our indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, which we refer to as “Carrols LLC”, purchased 278 company-owned restaurants from BKC, which we refer to as the “2012 acquisition”. As part of the consideration paid to BKC in the 2012 acquisition, on May 30, 2012, Carrols Holdco Inc. ("Carrols Holdco") (formerly Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.) issued 100 shares of its Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Series A Preferred Stock”), to BKC, which were convertible into an aggregate of 28.9% of the outstanding shares of Carrols Holdco (previously known as Carrols Restaurant Group) common stock, on a fully diluted basis, on May 30, 2012 after giving effect to the issuance of the Series A Preferred Stock (or 9,414,580 shares of Carrols Holdco (previously known as Carrols Restaurant Group) common stock in the aggregate, which we refer to as the “BKC Conversion Shares”).
On November 30, 2018, Carrols Holdco (previously known as Carrols Restaurant Group) entered into a Preferred Stock Exchange Agreement (the “Series A Exchange Agreement”) with BKC. Pursuant to the terms of the Series B Exchange Agreement, BKC exchanged (the “Series A Exchange”) 100 shares (the “Series A Shares”) of Series A Preferred Stock held by BKC for 100 shares (the “Carrols Holdco Series B Shares”) of Carrols Holdco (previously known as Carrols Restaurant Group) Series B Preferred Stock, newly issued by Carrols Holdco (previously known as Carrols Restaurant Group). The powers, preferences and rights of the Carrols Holdco Series B Shares were substantially similar to those of the Series A Shares (including, without limitation, that the Carrols Holdco Series B Shares were convertible into the same number of shares of Carrols Holdco (previously known as Carrols Restaurant Group) common stock on an as-converted basis as the Series A Shares), except that the Carrols Holdco Series B Shares could be transferred by BKC to certain other entities that are both affiliates of BKC and either RBI or RBI LP, each an indirect parent of BKC (such affiliates of BKC and RBI or RBI LP, the “RBI Investors”), without the termination of the certain rights that were previously granted solely to BKC pursuant to the Certificate of Designation of the Series A Preferred Stock.
On November 30, 2018, in connection with the Series A Exchange, Carrols Holdco (previously known as Carrols Restaurant Group) (i) upon issuance of 100 shares of Carrols Holdco’s Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Carrols Holdco Series B Preferred Stock“), to BKC pursuant to a Certificate of Designation of Series B Preferred Stock and (ii) upon receipt of the 100 Series A Shares, which constituted all of the shares of Series A Preferred Stock outstanding, retired the Series A Preferred Stock by filing a Certificate of Retirement of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock of Carrols Holdco (the “Series A Certificate of Retirement”) with the Secretary of State of Delaware as part of Carrols Holdco’s Certificate of Incorporation, in accordance with the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”). The Series A Certificate of Retirement permanently retired the Series A Preferred Stock and eliminated all references to the Series A Preferred Stock from Carrols Holdco’s Certificate of Incorporation.
The Series A Exchange Agreement also provided that the BKC Conversion Shares were to be included as “Registrable Securities”, as defined in the BKC Registration Rights Agreement (as defined below), which provides for certain registration rights for the shares of Carrols Holdco’s (formerly Carrols Restaurant Group) common stock.
At the effective time of the Cambridge Transaction (as defined below), each share of Carrols Holdco (previously known as Carrols Restaurant Group) common stock was automatically converted into one share of our common stock and each share of Carrols Holdco Series B Preferred Stock was automatically exchanged for one share of our Series B Preferred Stock which has the same designations, rights, powers and preferences and the qualifications, limitations and restrictions as the corresponding share of Carrols Holdco Series B Preferred Stock.
On December 20, 2022, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Exchange Agreement (the “Series B Exchange Agreement”) with two wholly-owned indirect subsidiaries of RBI and RBI LP (collectively, such subsidiaries are referred to herein as the “Investors”). Pursuant to the terms of the Series B Exchange Agreement, the Investors exchanged (the “Series B Exchange”) 93 shares and 7 shares, respectively, of Series B Preferred Stock (collectively, the "Series B Shares"), for 93 shares and 7 shares (collectively, the “Series D Shares”), respectively, of our newly issued Series D Preferred Stock. The powers, preferences and rights of the Series D Shares are substantially similar to those of the Series B Shares (including, without limitation, that the Series D Shares are convertible into the same number of shares of our common stock on an as-converted basis as the Series B Shares), except that the Series D Shares may be transferred by the holders to certain other entities that are both the franchisor of the Burger King brand or an affiliate thereof and a wholly-owned direct or indirect subsidiary of either RBI or RBI LP, each an indirect parent of the Investors, without the termination of the Rights (as defined below) that were previously granted to BKC or an entity that was both an affiliate of BKC and a wholly-owned direct or indirect subsidiary of RBI or RBI LP pursuant to the Certificate of Designation of the Series D Preferred Stock.
Each share of the Series D Preferred Stock is convertible into 94,145.80 shares of our common stock, or an aggregate of 9,414,580 shares of our common stock constituting approximately 14.6% of the outstanding shares of our common stock (the “Series D Conversion Shares”) as of February 9, 2024 on an as-converted basis after giving effect to the issuance of the Series D Conversion Shares.
On December 20, 2022, in connection with the Series B Exchange, we (i) upon issuance of 100 shares of the Series D Shares to the Investors pursuant to a Certificate of Designation of Series D Preferred Stock and (ii) upon receipt of the 100 Series B Shares, which constituted all of the shares of Series B Preferred Stock outstanding, retired the Series B Preferred Stock by filing a Certificate of Retirement of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company (the “Series B Certificate of Retirement”) with the Secretary of State of Delaware as part of our Certificate of Incorporation, in accordance with the DGCL. The Series B Certificate of Retirement permanently retired the Series B Preferred Stock and eliminated all references to the Series B Preferred Stock from our Certificate of Incorporation.
The Series B Exchange Agreement also provides that the Series D Conversion are to be included as “Registrable Securities” as defined in the BKC Registration Rights Agreement, which provides for certain registration rights for shares of our common stock.
The Series D Certificate of Designation provides that the Investors will have certain rights (collectively, the “Rights”), including approval rights, so long as they collectively own greater than 10% of the outstanding shares of our common stock (on an as-converted basis) with regards to, among other things: (a) modifying our organizational documents; (b) amending the size of our Board of Directors; (c) authorizing or consummating any liquidation event (as defined in the Series D Certificate of Designation); (d) engaging in any business other than the acquisition and operation of Burger King and Popeyes restaurants, except following a bankruptcy filing, reorganization or insolvency proceeding by or against RBI BKC LLC or Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc., which filing has not been dismissed within 60 days; and (g) issuing, in any single transaction or series of related transactions, shares of our common stock in an amount exceeding 35% of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding immediately prior to the time of such issuance. The Series D Preferred Stock votes with our common stock on an as-converted basis. The Series D Certificate of Designation provides the Investors with the right to elect two members of our Board of Directors as Class D members at each annual meeting of stockholders until the date on which the number of shares of our common stock into which the outstanding shares of Series D Preferred Stock held by the Investors are then convertible constitutes less than 11.5% of the total number of outstanding shares of our common stock (the “BKC Director Step-Down Date”). From the BKC Director Step-Down Date to the date on which the number of shares of our common stock into which the outstanding shares of Series D Preferred Stock held by the Investors are then convertible constitute less than 7.5% of the total number of outstanding shares of our common stock, the Investors will have the right to elect one member to our Board of Directors as a Class D member at each annual meeting of stockholders. The Series D Preferred Stock will rank senior to our common stock with respect to rights on liquidation, winding-up and dissolution of the Company. The Series D Preferred Stock will receive dividends and amounts upon a liquidation event (as defined in the Series D Certificate of Designation) on an as-converted basis.
Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement
On January 4, 2021 (the “Commencement Date”), the Company, Carrols Holdco, Carrols and Carrols LLC entered into an Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement (the “Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement”) with BKC which amended and restated the Area Development and Remodeling Agreement (the “Area Development Agreement”) dated April 30, 2019 with BKC. The Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement (i) removes the prior obligation by Carrols LLC under the Area Development Agreement to remodel or upgrade a total of 748 Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2024, (ii) amends and replaces the prior obligation by Carrols LLC under the Area Development Agreement to open, develop and operate a total of 200 Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2024 with the new development obligation described below and (iii) terminates the assignment by BKC to Carrols LLC of BKC's right of first refusal under its franchise agreements with its franchisees to purchase all of the assets of a Burger King restaurant or all or substantially all of the voting stock of the franchisee, whether direct or indirect, on the same terms proposed between such franchisee and a third party purchaser in 16 states, which included Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont and Virginia (subject to certain exceptions for certain limited geographic areas within certain states).
Pursuant to the Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement, Carrols LLC agreed to open, build and operate a total of 50 new Burger King restaurants, including 4 Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2021, 10 additional Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2022, 12 additional Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2023, 12 additional Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2024 and 12 additional Burger King restaurants by September 30, 2025 (in each case subject to a 90 day cure period) (the “Development Obligations”), subject to and in accordance with the terms of the Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement, in (i) Kentucky, Tennessee and Indiana (excluding certain geographic areas in Indiana) (the “Territory”) and (ii) (a) 16 states, which include Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont and Virginia (subject to certain exceptions for certain limited geographic areas within certain states) and (b) any other geographic locations that Carrols LLC enters after the Commencement Date pursuant to BKC procedures (subclauses (a) and (b) collectively, the “Extra Territory”), provided that up to 10 restaurants developed during the term of the Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement in the Extra Territory shall be considered for purposes of satisfying the Development Obligations (the “Extra Territorial Restaurant Cap”).
In addition, pursuant to the Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement, BKC granted Carrols LLC franchise pre-approval (the “Franchise Pre-Approval”) to build new Burger King restaurants or acquire Burger King restaurants from Burger King franchisees in the Territory and the Extra Territory (subject to the Extra Territorial Restaurant Cap), and in the case of acquiring Burger King restaurants from Burger King franchisees, outside of the Territory but in a geographic location where Carrols LLC or its affiliates operate Burger King restaurants prior to such acquisition. Franchise Pre-Approval for the acquisition of Burger King restaurants from Burger King franchisees in the Territory will be terminated on the date that Carrols LLC acquires more than 500 Burger King restaurants in the aggregate from Burger King franchisees inside or outside of the Territory. The grant by BKC to Carrols LLC of Franchise Pre-Approval to develop new Burger King restaurants in the Territory or the Extra Territory is subject to customary BKC franchise, site and construction approval as specified in the Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement. The continued grant of Franchise Pre-Approval is subject to suspension or termination in the event of non-compliance by Carrols LLC with certain terms as set forth in the Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement.
Popeyes Development Agreement
Through the Cambridge Merger, the Company assumed Cambridge Holdings’ development agreement dated as of October 9, 2017, as amended (the “Development Agreement”), for Popeyes®, which included a right of first refusal for acquisitions in two southern states, as well as a development commitment for approximately 80 new Popeyes® restaurants over six years.
The Development Agreement was terminated on March 17, 2021 pursuant to an Agreement of Cancellation and Termination of Development Agreement and General Release (the “Termination Agreement”) entered into with Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. (“PLK”). Certain covenants applicable to certain of the Company’s indirect subsidiaries survive the termination of the Development Agreement, and PLK has reserved the right to charge certain of the Company’s indirect subsidiaries a $600,000 fee pursuant to Section 5.03(i) of the Development Agreement if the parties are not able to come to a mutually agreeable solution with respect to such fee within a one hundred eighty day (180) day period of March 17, 2021.
Series C Preferred Stock
On April 30, 2019, the Company acquired 165 Burger King® restaurants, 55 Popeyes® restaurants, six convenience stores and certain real property from Cambridge Holdings (the “Cambridge Transaction”), in consideration for the issuance to Cambridge Holdings of 7,364,413 shares of our common stock and 10,000 shares of the Company’s Series C Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Series C Preferred Stock”) which were converted into 7,450,402 shares of our common stock upon approval of such conversion at the Company’s 2019 Annual Stockholders Meeting on August 29, 2019.
At the effective time of the Cambridge Transaction, each share of Carrols Holdco (formerly Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.) common stock, par value $0.01 per share, was automatically converted into one share of our common stock and each share of Carrols Holdco Series B Preferred Stock was automatically exchanged for one share of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, which has the same designations, rights, powers and preferences and the same qualifications, limitations and restrictions as the corresponding share of Carrols Holdco Series B Preferred Stock.
Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement
Simultaneously with the closing of the Cambridge Transaction, the Company and Cambridge Holdings entered into the Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement pursuant to which the Company agreed to file one shelf registration statement on Form S-3 covering the resale of at least 30% of the shares of our common stock held by Cambridge Holdings and shares of our common stock issued or issuable to Cambridge Holdings by way of a stock dividend or stock split or in connection with a combination of shares, recapitalization, merger consolidation or other reorganization (collectively, the “Cambridge Registrable Shares”) upon written request of Cambridge Holdings at any time after the 24-month anniversary of the closing of the Cambridge Transaction. The Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement also provides that Cambridge Holdings may make up to three demands to register, in connection with an underwritten public offering of the Cambridge Registrable Shares, for the resale of at least 33.3% of the Cambridge Registrable Shares held by Cambridge Holdings at the time of such demand upon the written request by Cambridge Holdings at any time following the 24th month anniversary of the closing of the Cambridge Transaction. The Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement also provides that whenever we register shares of our common stock under the Securities Act (other than on a Form S-4 or Form S-8), then Cambridge Holdings will have the right as specified therein to register its shares of our common stock as part of that registration. The registration rights under the Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement are subject to the rights of the managing underwriters, if any, to reduce or exclude certain shares owned by Cambridge Holdings from an underwritten registration and the rights of RBI Investors pursuant to a the BKC Registration Rights Agreement (as defined below and subject to certain rights of certain persons, including members of current and former management of the Company that have piggyback registration rights). Except as otherwise provided, the Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement requires the Company to pay for all costs and expenses, other than underwriting discounts, commissions and underwriters’ counsel fees, incurred in connection with the registration of our common stock, stock transfer taxes and the expenses of Cambridge Holdings’ legal counsel in connection with the sale of the Cambridge Registrable Shares, provided that the Company will pay the reasonable fees and expenses of one counsel for Cambridge Holdings up to $50,000 in the aggregate for any registration thereunder, subject to the limitations set forth therein. The Company will also agree to indemnify Cambridge Holdings against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.
For the period that is two years after the date of the Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement, Cambridge Holdings may not, without the approval of a majority of the directors of the Company other than the Cambridge Investor Directors, directly or indirectly transfer any shares of our common stock held by Cambridge Holdings provided that such transfer restriction will not apply to (i) any transfer of shares of our common stock held by Cambridge Holdings yielding up to $6.0 million in gross aggregate proceeds, and (ii) transfers to Permitted Affiliates.
Until the date that Cambridge Holdings and the Permitted Affiliates (as defined in the Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement) hold shares of our common stock that, together with shares of our common stock issuable upon the conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock which were issued on August 29, 2019 (the “Conversion Common Stock”), constitute less than 14.5% of the total number of outstanding shares of our common stock (the “Cambridge Director Step-Down Date”), Cambridge Holdings has the right to nominate two individuals as director nominees of our Board of Directors (each a "Cambridge Investor Director"), which shall initially be Matthew Perelman and Alexander Sloane, and the Board of Directors will take all necessary action to support the election and appointment of such director nominees as directors of the Board of Directors. From the Cambridge Director Step-Down Date to the date that Cambridge Holdings and the Permitted Affiliates hold shares of our common stock and Conversion Common Stock that constitute less than 10% of the total number of outstanding shares of our common stock (the “Cambridge Director Cessation Date”), Cambridge Holdings has the right to nominate one individual as a director nominee of our Board of Directors and the Company and our Board of Directors will take all necessary action to support the election and appointment of such director nominee as a director of the Board of Directors. Until the Cambridge Director Cessation Date, the Company and the Board of Directors will act to ensure that the number of Cambridge Investor Directors serving on each committee of the Board of Directors is, to the extent possible, proportional to the number of Cambridge Investor Directors serving on the Board of Directors and that at least one Cambridge Investor Director serves on each of the Compensation Committee, the Finance Committee and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board of Directors at all times, provided that such Cambridge Investor Directors meet the requirements to serve on such committee under the rules and regulations of NASDAQ, the Securities Act and the Exchange Act.
Until the Cambridge Director Cessation Date, at each annual or special meeting of our stockholders at which any person is subject to election or re-election as a member of the Board of Directors, Cambridge Holdings has agreed to cause to be present for quorum purposes all shares of our common stock that Cambridge Holdings and its Permitted Affiliates have the right to vote as of the record date for such meeting of our stockholders, and vote or cause to be voted all such shares of our common stock held by Cambridge Holdings in favor of the election of all of the director nominees recommended for election by the Board of Directors, and against the removal of any such director (unless proposed by the Company).
On April 1, 2021, the Company and Cambridge Holdings entered into Amendment No. 1 to the Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders’ Agreement, which provides that the Cambridge Investor Directors have the right to receive equity grants and other grants made by the Company to non-employee directors from time to time pursuant to the Company’s 2016 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, or any other equity incentive plan then in effect.
Pursuant to the Cambridge Registration Rights and Stockholders' Agreement, on June 22, 2023, the Company filed a Registration Statement on Form S-3 with the SEC, which was declared effective on July 10, 2023 (the “Registration Statement”), registering for resale by Cambridge Holdings of up to 14,814,815 shares of our common stock held by Cambridge Holdings. On November 13, 2023, the Company, Cambridge Holdings and Jefferies LLC entered into the Open Market Sale Agreement (the "Open Market Sale Agreement") pursuant to which Cambridge Holdings may offer from time to time up to 14,407,755 shares of our common stock held by Cambridge Holdings and registered for resale pursuant to the Registration Statement. On September 14, 2023, Cambridge Holdings sold 407,060 shares of our common stock under the Open Market Sale Agreement and the Registration Statement. On December 3, 2023, Cambridge Holdings sold 1,960,136 shares of our common stock under the Open Market Sale Agreement and the Registration Statement. The Company did not receive any proceeds from either sale of our common stock by Cambridge Holdings under the Open Market Sale Agreement and the Registration Statement.
Lease Guarantees
Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc. ("Fiesta"), a former wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, was spun-off in 2012 to the Company's stockholders. As of December 31, 2023, the Company is a guarantor under 17 leases from the time when Fiesta was its subsidiary, which have lease terms expiring on various dates through 2030. As of December 31, 2023, the guarantees include eight Fiesta restaurant property leases of which all but one Fiesta-owned restaurant is still operating. Eight of these guarantees are for leases with Pollo Operations, Inc, a wholly owned subsidiary of Fiesta. The Company is fully liable for all obligations under the terms of the leases in the event that a tenant fails to pay any sums due under the lease, subject to indemnification provisions of the Separation and Distribution Agreement entered into in connection with the spin-off of Fiesta. On October 30, 2023, Fiesta was
acquired by affiliates of Garnett Station Partners. Matthew Perelman and Alexander Sloane, each a member of the Company’s Board of Directors, are affiliates of GSP and affiliates of Cambridge Holdings.
The maximum potential amount of future undiscounted rental payments the Company could be required to make under these leases at December 31, 2023 was $8.3 million, of which $5.1 million pertains to Fiesta restaurant property leases. The obligations under these leases will generally continue to decrease over time as these operating leases expire, except for any execution of renewal options that exist under the original leases. No payments related to these guarantees have been made by the Company to date and none are expected to be required to be made in the future. The Company has not recorded a liability for these guarantees in accordance with ASC 460 - Guarantees, as Fiesta has indemnified the Company for all such obligations and the Company did not believe it was probable it would be required to perform under any of the guarantees or direct obligations.
BKC's "Reclaim the Flame" Plan
In September 2022, BKC announced its "Reclaim the Flame" plan, which was developed in collaboration with its franchisees to accelerate sales growth and drive restaurant-level profitability. The plan includes Burger King investing $400 million through 2024, comprised of $150 million in advertising and digital investments to "Fuel the Flame" and $250 million for a "Royal Reset" involving investments in restaurant technology, kitchen equipment, building enhancements and high-quality remodels and relocations. Under BKC's "Royal Reset" program, BKC will make certain contributions towards franchisee remodel costs, which increase in value if BKC owns the property and/or if the franchisee agrees to pay higher royalty rates over the 20-year franchise term renewal. The "Royal Reset" program also includes a $50 million co-investment with its franchisees in a restaurant refresh program, whereby BKC will match certain restaurant improvement spending by franchisees by providing them with restaurant technology equipment at no cost.
The Company entered into the following agreements related to BKC's "Reclaim the Flame" plan:
•In the third quarter of 2022, the Company entered into an agreement with BKC in connection with their "Reclaim the Flame" investment plan. Pursuant to this initiative, BKC has agreed to fund $120 million in additional advertising expenditures over the period October 1, 2022 through December 31, 2024. Following the investment period in 2023 and 2024, participating franchisees, including the Company, have agreed to increase advertising fund contributions by 0.5% of restaurant sales through 2026 if a profitability threshold for the Burger King system is met for the full fiscal year 2024, and further through 2028 if a secondary profitability threshold is met for the full fiscal year 2026.
•In the second quarter of 2023, the Company entered into an agreement and related documentation with BKC in connection with their "Royal Reset" program that will provide the Company with approximately $12.2 million of restaurant technology equipment in 2023, conditioned upon the Company completing certain repairs, replacements and improvements to the Company's restaurant assets at a cost of approximately $12.2 million by March 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2023, approximately $8.4 million in equipment has been received by the Company related to this arrangement and $13.1 million in qualified repairs, replacements and improvements have been completed by the Company. As of December 31, 2023, 66 restaurants have kiosks installed, which the Company expects will drive sales with higher average checks and enhance the guest experience.
•In the third quarter of 2023, the Company entered into an agreement with BKC to remodel 64 restaurants in total between 2023 and 2024 in connection with their "Reclaim the Flame" remodel incentive program. The Company expects approximately one-half of the projects we begin in 2024 to be in BKC's latest "Sizzle" restaurant image. The new “Sizzle” format includes enhancements to guest experience through digital improvements, updated drive-thru and pick-up, as well as signature design elements The Company completed the first ground-up "Sizzle" restaurant in the Burger King system in October 2023 in Marion, North Carolina.
BKC Registration Rights Agreement
Upon the closing of the 2012 acquisition, Carrols Holdco (previously known as Carrols Restaurant Group) and BKC entered into a registration rights agreement (the “BKC Registration Rights Agreement”) and pursuant to which we agreed to file one shelf registration statement on Form S-3 covering the resale of at least 30% of the Series D Conversion Shares as promptly as possible upon written request of BKC at any time after the 36-month anniversary of the closing of the 2012 acquisition. The BKC Registration Rights Agreement also provides that BKC may make up to three demands to register for the resale of at least 33.3% of the Series D Conversion Shares held by BKC under the Securities Act on the date of the closing of the 2012 acquisition upon the written request by BKC at any time following the 30-month anniversary of the closing of the 2012 acquisition. The BKC Registration Rights Agreement also provides that whenever we register shares of our common stock under the Securities Act (other than on a Form S-4 or Form S-8), BKC has the right as specified therein to register its Series D Conversion Shares as part of that registration, provided, however, that such registration rights are subject to the rights of the managing underwriters, if any, to reduce or exclude certain Series D Conversion Shares owned by BKC from an underwritten registration (and subject to certain rights of certain persons, including members of our management that have piggyback registration rights). Except as otherwise provided in the BKC Registration Rights Agreement, the BKC Registration Rights Agreement requires us to pay for all costs and expenses, other than underwriting discounts, commissions and underwriters’ counsel fees, incurred in connection with the registration of our common stock, stock transfer taxes and the expenses of BKC’s legal counsel in connection with the sale of the Series D Conversion Shares, provided that we will pay the reasonable fees and expenses of one counsel for BKC up to $50,000 in the aggregate for any registration thereunder, subject to the limitations set forth therein. We will also agree to indemnify BKC against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act. We have also agreed, to the extent a shelf registration is effective, to file up to two prospectus supplements in connection with a block sale or non-marketed underwritten offering by BKC of our common stock held by BKC and pay one half of the accounting and printing fees related thereto to the extent such sale or offering is for a sales price of no less than 90% of the average closing price of our common stock for the five trading days ending immediately prior to such sale or offering and is not less than 300,000 shares of common stock.
The Exchange Agreement also provides that our common stock issuable to BKC and RBI Investors upon the conversion of the Series D Shares are to be included as “Registrable Securities”, as defined in the BKC Registration Rights Agreement.
Franchise Agreements and Leases
We operate all of our restaurants pursuant to franchise agreements entered into with BKC and PLK. In addition, we have entered into real property leases or subleases with BKC for a number of our restaurants.
Kiosk Agreement
In December 2023, we entered into an agreement with BKC under which BKC has agreed to provide us with self-order kiosks conditioned upon us purchasing additional self-order kiosks for our Burger King restaurants beyond the restaurant technology investments as part of BKC's Royal Reset agreements. Among other things, under this agreement, if we provide written notice to BKC by March 31, 2024 to purchase kiosks worth $1.7 million, BKC will provide us with an additional $2.5 million of kiosks for use in our Burger King restaurants. We may also elect to further expand kiosk installation and if, by written notice to BKC no later than May 31, 2024, we agree to purchase an additional $2.5 million of kiosks, BKC will provide us with additional kiosks worth up to $3.7 million for use in our restaurants. These additional kiosks must be installed by December 31, 2024.
Settlement Agreement
In September 2023, the Company, Carrols Corporation, Carrols LLC and BKC entered into a Settlement Agreement pursuant to which BKC paid Carrols LLC $4,250,000 to settle disputes pertaining to the development of certain Burger King restaurants for other franchisees near Company restaurants.
Board Independence
As required by the listing standards of NASDAQ, a majority of the members of our Board must qualify as “independent”, as affirmatively determined by our Board. Our Board determines director independence based on an
analysis of such listing standards and all relevant securities and other laws and regulations regarding the definition of “independent”.
Consistent with these considerations, after review of all relevant transactions and relationships between each director, any of his or her family members, and us, our executive officers and our independent registered public accounting firm, the Board has affirmatively determined that six of the nine members of our Board of Directors are currently independent directors. Our independent directors pursuant to NASDAQ listing standards are Hannah S. Craven, David S. Harris, Lawrence E. Hyatt, Matthew Perelman, Alexander Sloane and John D. Smith.

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ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
Fees for Professional Services
The following table sets forth the aggregate fees billed or expected to be billed to us for professional services rendered by Deloitte for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023:
Year Ended
December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023
(Amounts in thousands)
Audit Fees(1)
$ 1,433 $ 1,247
Audit-Related Fees(2)
227 2
Total Audit and Audit-Related Fees 1,660 1,249
Tax Fees(3)
4 -
All Other Fees $ 15 $ -
Total $ 1,679 $ 1,249
(1)Audit fees consist of fees for the annual audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, the quarterly reviews of the Company’s interim financial statements included in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and the annual audit of the Company's internal controls over financial reporting.
(2)Audit related fees shown include fees for assurance and related services that are traditionally performed by independent auditors. These fees include due diligence related to mergers and acquisitions, financing transactions and consulting on financial accounting/reporting standards.
(3)Tax fees consist of the aggregate fees for tax compliance and tax advisory and consulting services.
Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures
The Audit Committee has established a policy regarding the pre-approval of all audit and non-audit services provided to us by Deloitte. The policy provides for Audit Committee pre-approval of all audit and non-audit services other than de minimis non-audit services. The Audit Committee may delegate pre-approval authority to a member of the Audit Committee between regularly scheduled meetings; provided, however, the decisions of any Audit Committee member to whom pre-approval authority is delegated must be presented to the full Audit Committee at its next scheduled meeting.
PART IV

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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) (1) Financial Statements - Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and Subsidiary
Page
CARROLS RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID No. 34)
F- 1
Financial Statements:
Consolidated Balance Sheets
F- 4
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
F- 5
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
F- 6
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
F- 7
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
F- 8
(a) (2) Financial Statement Schedule
Schedule Description Page
II
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Schedules other than those listed are omitted for the reason that they are not required, not applicable, or the required information is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.
(a) (3) Exhibits
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit
Number Description
2.1 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 26, 2012, among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Carrols LLC and Burger King Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 28, 2012)
2.2 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 19, 2019 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Carrols Holdco Inc., GRC MergerSub Inc., GRC MergerSub LLC, Cambridge Franchise Partners, LLC, Cambridge Franchise Holdings, LLC and New CFH, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 25, 2019)
2.3 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of January 16, 2024, by and among Restaurant Brands International Inc., BK Cheshire Corp. and Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 16, 2024)
3.1 Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
3.2 Certificate of Amendment to Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
3.3 Certificate of Amendment to Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 13, 2020)
3.4 Amended and Restated Bylaws of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to Carrols Restaurant Group Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
3.5 Amendment to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. Amended and Restated Bylaws (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
3.6 Second Amendment to Amended and Restated Bylaws of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 13, 2020)
3.7 Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. Certificate of Designation of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 1, 2012)
3.8 Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. Certificate of Designation of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
3.9 Certificate of Amendment to Certificate of Designation of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 13, 2020)
3.10 Form of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. Certificate of Designation of Series D Convertible Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group Inc's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 27, 2022)
3.11 Form of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. Certificate of Retirement of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group Inc's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 27, 2022)
3.12 Form of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. Certificate of Retirement of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 3, 2018)
3.13 Certificate of Designations of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
4.1 Form of Stock Certificate for Common Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 10, 2012)
4.2 Form of Registration Rights Agreement between Carrols Restaurant Group Inc. and Burger King Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 28, 2012)
4.3 Registration Rights Agreement between Carrols Holdco Inc. and Cambridge Franchise Holdings, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
4.4 Description of Capital Stock (incorporated by reference to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 11, 2021)
4.5 Indenture governing the 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029, dated as of June 28, 2021, among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., the guarantors named therein and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 30, 2021)
4.6 Form of 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11)
10.1 Carrols Corporation Retirement Savings Plan dated April 1, 1999 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to Carrols Corporation's 1999 Annual Report on Form 10-K) †
10.2 Carrols Corporation Retirement Savings plan July 1, 2002 Restatement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to Carrols Corporation's September 29, 2002 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q) †
10.3 Addendum incorporating EGTRRA Compliance Amendment to Carrols Corporation Retirement Savings Plan dated September 12, 2002 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to Carrols Corporation's September 29, 2002 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q) †
10.4 First Amendment, dated as of January 1, 2004, to Carrols Corporation Retirement Savings Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.35 to Carrols Corporation's December 31, 2003 Annual Report on Form 10-K) †
10.5 2006 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to Carrols Restaurant Group Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-1, as amended (Registration No. 333-137524)) †
10.6 Amendment to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan, dated as of March 24, 2010 (incorporated by reference to Appendix A of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Definitive Proxy Statement filed on April 28, 2011) †
10.7 Amendment to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan, dated as of April 11, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Appendix A of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Definitive Proxy Statement filed on April 28, 2011) †
10.8 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A filed on April 29, 2016) †
10.9 Form of Change of Control/Severance Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 7, 2013) †
10.10 Form of Change of Control and Severance Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 7, 2013) †
10.11 Amended and Restated Carrols Corporation and Subsidiaries Deferred Compensation Plan dated December 1, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to Carrols Restaurant Group's and Carrols Corporation's 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K) †
10.12 Separation and Distribution Agreement dated as of April 24, 2012 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Carrols Corporation, Carrols LLC and Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 26, 2012)
10.13 Tax Matters Agreement dated as of April 24, 2012 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Carrols Corporation, Carrols LLC and Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 26, 2012)
10.14 Employee Matters Agreement dated as of April 24, 2012 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Carrols Corporation, Carrols LLC and Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 26, 2012)
10.15 Transition Services Agreement dated as of April 24, 2012 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Carrols Corporation, Carrols LLC and Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 26, 2012)
10.16 Amendment No. 1 to Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2012, among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Carrols LLC and Burger King Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 1, 2012)
10.17 Preferred Stock Exchange Agreement between Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and Burger King Corporation, dated as of November 30, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 3, 2018)
10.18 Form of Area Development and Remodeling Agreement between Carrols LLC, Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and Burger King Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 25, 2019)
10.19 Credit Agreement dated as of April 30, 2019 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., the guarantors named therein, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
10.20 First Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of December 13, 2019 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., the guarantors named therein, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 18, 2019)
10.21 Security Agreement dated as of April 30, 2019 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., the guarantors named therein, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
10.22 Voting Agreement dated as of April 30, 2019 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Burger King Corporation, Blue Holdco 1, LLC and Cambridge Franchise Holdings, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
10.23 Consent Agreement dated as of April 30, 2019 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Carrols Holdco Inc., Carrols Corporation, Burger King Corporation and Blue Holdco 1, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2019)
10.24 Development Agreement dated as of October 9, 2017 between Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Inc. and Cambridge Quality Chicken LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 10, 2019)
10.25 First Amendment to Development Agreement dated as of June 27, 2018 among Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Inc., Cambridge Quality Chicken, LLC, Frayser Quality, LLC, Cambridge Chicken Holdings, LLC, Matt Perelman and Alex Sloane (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 10, 2019)
10.26 Offer Letter dated as of November 20, 2019 between Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and Anthony Hull (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 13, 2020)†
10.27 Second Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of March 25, 2020 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarter Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 7, 2020)
10.28 Third Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of April 8, 2020 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarter Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 7, 2020)
10.29 Form of Fourth Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of April 16, 2020 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarter Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 7, 2020)
10.30 Letter Agreement dated as of March 25, 2020 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Wells Fargo Securities LLC, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and Trust Bank (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarter Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 7, 2020)
10.31 Fifth Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of June 23, 2020 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarter Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 6, 2020)
10.32 Amendment to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 5, 2020)†
10.33 Amended and Restated Area Development Agreement dated as of January 4, 2021 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Carrols Holdco Inc., Carrols Corporation, Carrols LLC and Burger King Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 8, 2021)
10.34 Termination of Development Agreement and General Release dated March 17, 2021 by and among Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc., Cambridge Quality Chicken, LLC, Cambridge Chicken Holdings, LLC and Frayser Quality, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 19, 2021)
10.35 Amendment No.1 to Registration Rights and Stockholders' Agreement dated as of April 1, 2021 between Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and Cambridge Franchise Holdings, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 13, 2021)
10.36 Sixth Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of April 6, 2021 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 13, 2021)
10.37 Offer Letter dated October 4, 2018 between Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and Nathan Mucher (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 13, 2021)†
10.38 Second Amendment to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 22, 2021) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 22, 2021) †
10.39 Form of Seventh Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of June 28, 2021 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 30, 2021)
10.4 Form of Change of Control and Severance Agreement (entered into by each of Anthony Hull, Jared Landaw and Nathan Mucher) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 1, 2021) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 1, 2021) †
10.41 Form of Eighth Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of September 30, 2021 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 30, 2021)
10.42 Form of Retention Bonus Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 20, 2021) †
10.43 Offer Letter dated January 13, 2021 between Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and Jared Landaw (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.54 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 10, 2022) †
10.44 Form of Ninth Amendment to Credit Agreement dates as of December 15, 2022 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 21, 2022) †
10.45 Preferred Stock Exchange Agreement among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Blue Holdco 1, LLC and Burger King Company LLC, dated December 20, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 27, 2022) †
10.46 Letter dated December 30, 2022 between Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. and Joseph Hoffman (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.53 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 9, 2023)†
10.47 Form of Employment Agreement dated as of April 12, 2023 among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Carrols Corporation and Deborah M. Derby (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 11, 2023)†
10.48 Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. 2016 Stock Incentive Plan, as Amended and Restated (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 22, 2023)†
10.49 Open Market Sale Agreement, dated as of November 13, 2023, by and among Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., Cambridge Franchise Holdings, LLC and Jefferies LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K)
19.1 Management Insider Trading Policy #
19.2 Policy on Insider Trading #
21.1 List of Subsidiaries #
23.1 Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP #
31.1 Chief Executive Officer's Certificate Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 for Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.#
31.2 Chief Financial Officer's Certificate Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 for Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.#
32.1 Chief Executive Officer's Certificate Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 for Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.#
32.2 Chief Financial Officer's Certificate Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 for Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.#
97.1 Clawback Policy #
101.INS XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
# Filed herewith.
† Compensatory plan or arrangement