q2-2011_10q.htm
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q
 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the Quarterly Period Ended June 29, 2011

 DENNY'S CORPORATION LOGO
 
Commission File Number 0-18051
DENNY’S CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
 
13-3487402
(State or other jurisdiction of
 
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization
 
Identification No.)

203 East Main Street
Spartanburg, South Carolina 29319-0001
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(864) 597-8000
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. 

Yes  þ    No  ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes  þ    No  ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large accelerated filer
o
Accelerated filer
þ
Non-accelerated filer
o
Smaller reporting company
o
       
(Do not check if a smaller
reporting company)
     
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes  ¨    No  þ
 
As of August 1, 2011, 97,323,951 shares of the registrant’s common stock, par value $.01 per share, were outstanding.
 
 
 

 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
   
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24
 
24
 
24
 
25
     

 
 
2

 
 
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.     Financial Statements
 
Denny’s Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(Unaudited)

   
Quarter Ended
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Revenue:
                       
Company restaurant sales
 
$
104,021
   
$
105,301
   
$
208,576
   
$
213,084
 
Franchise and license revenue
   
31,832
     
29,776
     
63,082
     
59,565
 
Total operating revenue
   
135,853
     
135,077
     
271,658
     
272,649
 
Costs of company restaurant sales:
                               
Product costs
   
25,613
     
24,500
     
51,248
     
50,192
 
Payroll and benefits
   
42,419
     
43,363
     
86,615
     
87,539
 
Occupancy
   
6,793
     
6,908
     
13,653
     
14,309
 
Other operating expenses
   
15,329
     
15,994
     
30,586
     
31,858
 
Total costs of company restaurant sales
   
90,154
     
90,765
     
182,102
     
183,898
 
Costs of franchise and license revenue
   
11,085
     
11,123
     
22,650
     
23,489
 
General and administrative expenses
   
14,092
     
13,111
     
28,231
     
26,185
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
7,234
     
7,291
     
14,422
     
14,664
 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net
   
(419
)
   
(117
)
   
(948
)
   
306
 
Total operating costs and expenses, net
   
122,146
     
122,173
     
246,457
     
248,542
 
Operating income
   
13,707
     
12,904
     
25,201
     
24,107
 
Other expenses:
                               
Interest expense, net
   
4,901
     
6,514
     
10,594
     
12,912
 
Other nonoperating expense, net
   
268
     
570
 
   
1,746
     
558
 
Total other expenses, net
   
5,169
     
7,084
     
12,340
     
13,470
 
Net income before income taxes
   
8,538
     
5,820
     
12,861
     
10,637
 
Provision for income taxes
   
408
     
362
     
607
     
591
 
Net income
 
$
8,130
   
$
5,458
   
$
12,254
   
$
10,046
 
                                 
Basic and diluted net income per share
 
$
0.08
   
$
0.05
   
$
0.12
   
$
0.10
 
                                 
Weighted average shares outstanding:
                               
Basic
   
98,421
     
99,263
     
98,700
     
98,179
 
Diluted
   
100,602
     
101,983
     
100,976
     
101,068
 
 
See accompanying notes
 

 
3

 

Denny’s Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
December 29, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Assets
           
Current assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
12,937
   
$
29,074
 
Receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $337 and $207, respectively
   
15,920
     
17,280
 
Inventories
   
3,644
     
4,037
 
Assets held for sale
   
671
     
1,933
 
Prepaid and other current assets
   
10,123
     
10,162
 
Total current assets
   
43,295
     
62,486
 
                 
Property, net of accumulated depreciation of $248,757 and $247,492, respectively
   
125,399
     
129,518
 
                 
Other assets:
               
Goodwill
   
31,218
     
31,308
 
Intangible assets, net
   
50,747
     
52,054
 
Deferred financing costs, net
   
7,010
     
5,286
 
Other noncurrent assets
   
28,993
     
30,554
 
Total assets
 
$
286,662
   
$
311,206
 
                 
Liabilities
               
Current liabilities:
               
Current maturities of long-term debt
 
$
2,586
   
$
2,583
 
Current maturities of capital lease obligations
   
4,383
     
4,109
 
Accounts payable
   
23,327
     
25,957
 
Other current liabilities
   
52,941
     
57,685
 
Total current liabilities
   
83,237
     
90,334
 
                 
Long-term liabilities:
               
Long-term debt, less current maturities, net of discount of $2,755 and $3,455, respectively
   
214,799
     
234,143
 
Capital lease obligations, less current maturities
   
19,131
     
18,988
 
Liability for insurance claims, less current portion
   
18,068
     
18,810
 
Deferred income taxes
   
13,373
     
13,339
 
Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits
   
37,577
     
39,304
 
Total long-term liabilities
   
302,948
     
324,584
 
Total liabilities
   
386,185
     
414,918
 
                 
Commitments and contingencies
               
                 
Shareholders' deficit
               
Common stock $0.01 par value; authorized - 135,000; June 29, 2011: 102,176 shares issued
and 97,408 shares outstanding; December 29, 2010: 100,073 shares issued and 99,036
shares outstanding
   
 1,022
     
 1,001
 
Paid-in capital
   
554,979
     
 548,490
 
Deficit
   
 (617,860
)
   
 (630,114
)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
   
 (19,199
)
   
 (19,199
)
    Shareholders’ deficit before treasury stock
   
(81,058
)
   
(99,822
)
    Treasury stock, at cost, 4,768 and 1,037 shares, respectively
   
(18,465
)
   
(3,890
)
Total Shareholders' Deficit
   
(99,523
)
   
(103,712
)
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Deficit
 
$
286,662
   
$
311,206
 

See accompanying notes
 
 
4

 
 
Denny’s Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Shareholders’ Deficit and Comprehensive Loss
 (Unaudited)

 
   
Common Stock
   
Treasury Stock
   
Paid-in
         
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
   
Total
Shareholders’
 
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Capital
   
(Deficit)
   
Loss, Net
   
Deficit
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Balance, December 29, 2010
   
100,073
   
$
1,001
     
(1,037
)
 
$
(3,890
)
 
$
548,490
   
$
(630,114
)
 
$
(19,199
)
 
$
(103,712
)
Comprehensive income:
                                                               
Net income
   
     
     
     
     
     
12,254
     
     
12,254
 
Comprehensive income
   
     
     
     
     
     
12,254
     
     
12,254
 
Share-based compensation on equity
classified awards
   
     
     
     
     
1,889
     
     
     
1,889
 
Purchase of treasury stock
   
     
     
(3,731
)
   
(14,575
)
   
     
     
     
(14,575
)
Issuance of common stock for share-based
compensation
   
126
     
1
     
     
     
(1
)
   
     
     
 
Exercise of common stock options
   
1,977
     
20
     
     
     
4,601
     
     
     
4,621
 
Balance, June 29, 2011
   
102,176
   
$
1,022
     
(4,768
)
 
$
(18,465
)
 
$
554,979
   
$
(617,860
)
 
$
(19,199
)
 
$
(99,523
)
 
See accompanying notes
 
 
5

 
 
Denny’s Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
 
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
Net income
 
$
12,254
   
$
10,046
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
   
14,422
     
14,664
 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net
   
(948
)
   
 306
 
Amortization of deferred financing costs
   
662
     
516
 
Amortization of debt discount
   
284
     
 
Loss on early extinguishment of debt
   
1,984
     
7
 
Loss on interest rate swap
   
     
 167
 
Deferred income tax expense
   
34
     
93
 
Share-based compensation
   
2,149
     
1,249
 
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:
               
Decrease (increase) in assets:
               
Receivables
   
1,929
     
2,344
 
Inventories
   
393
     
424
 
Other current assets
   
39
     
(3,040
)
Other assets
   
182
     
(1,268
)
Increase (decrease) in liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
   
137
     
(2,472
)
Accrued salaries and vacations
   
553
     
(7,899
)
Accrued taxes
   
79
     
(105
)
Other accrued liabilities
   
(5,897
)
   
(2,470
)
Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits
   
(3,321
)
   
(1,870
)
Net cash flows provided by operating activities
   
24,935
     
10,692
 
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Purchase of property
   
(8,854
)
   
(6,310
)
Proceeds from disposition of property
   
3,893
     
3,322
 
Collections on notes receivable
   
450
     
2,691
 
Net cash flows used in investing activities
   
(4,511
)
   
(297
)
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Long-term debt payments
   
(22,084
)
   
 (16,793
)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
   
4,621
     
3,336
 
Debt transaction costs
   
(795
)
   
 
Deferred financing costs
   
(3,247
)
   
 
Purchase of treasury stock
   
(14,280
)
   
 
Net bank overdrafts
   
(776
)
   
 (1,786
)
Net cash flows used in financing activities
   
(36,561
)
   
 (15,243
)
                 
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents
   
(16,137
)
   
(4,848
)
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at:
               
Beginning of period
   
29,074
     
26,525
 
End of period
 
$
12,937
   
$
21,677
 
 
See accompanying notes
 
 
6

 
 
Denny’s Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)

Note 1.     Introduction and Basis of Presentation

Denny’s Corporation, or Denny’s, is one of America’s largest family-style restaurant chains. At June 29, 2011, the Denny’s brand consisted of 1,677 restaurants, 1,452 (87%) of which were franchised/licensed restaurants and 225 (13%) of which were company-owned and operated.
 
The following table shows the unit activity for the quarter and two quarters ended June 29, 2011 and June 30, 2010:

   
Quarter Ended
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
Company-owned restaurants, beginning of period
   
226
     
237
     
232
     
233
 
Units opened
   
1
     
 —
     
6
     
4
 
Units sold to franchisees
   
(1
)
   
(9
)
   
 (10
)
   
 (9
)
Units closed
   
(1
)
   
     
 (3)
     
 —
 
End of period
   
225
     
228
     
225
     
228
 
                                 
Franchised and licensed restaurants, beginning of
period
   
1,439
     
1,322
     
1,426
     
1,318
 
Units opened
   
17
     
7
     
30
     
13
 
Units relocated
   
1
     
1
     
1
     
1
 
Units purchased from Company
   
1
     
9
     
10
     
9
 
Units closed (including units relocated)
   
  (6
)
   
  (11
)
   
  (15
)
   
  (13
)
End of period
   
  1,452
     
  1,328
     
  1,452
     
  1,328
 
Total restaurants, end of period
   
1,677
     
1,556
     
1,677
     
1,556
 

Of the 37 units opened and relocated during the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, six company-owned and 14 franchise units represent conversions and openings of restaurants at Pilot Flying J Travel Centers. Of the 18 units opened and relocated during the two quarters ended June 30, 2010, four company-owned and one franchise unit represent conversions and openings of restaurants at Pilot Flying J Travel Centers.

Our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Therefore, certain information and notes normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted. In our opinion, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the interim periods presented have been included. Such adjustments are of a normal and recurring nature. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions; however, we believe that our estimates, including those for the above-described items, are reasonable.

These interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 29, 2010 and the related Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, both of which are contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2010. The results of operations for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire fiscal year ending December 28, 2011.

Note 2.     Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 
Newly Adopted Accounting Standards
 
Fair Value
 
ASU No. 2010-06, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (Topic 820): Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements”
 
Effective December 30, 2010, we adopted the disclosure requirements of ASU No. 2010-06 about purchases, sales, issuances and settlements relating to Level 3 measurements. The adoption did not have any impact on the disclosures included in our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Receivables
 
ASU  No. 2010-20, “Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses”
 
Effective December 30, 2010, we adopted the disclosure provisions of ASU No. 2010-20 requiring a rollforward of the allowance for credit losses and new disclosures about modifications. The adoption resulted in increased notes receivable disclosure, but did not have any impact on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
7

 
 
Goodwill
 
ASU  No. 2010-28, “ Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): When to Perform Step 2 of the Goodwill Impairment Test for Reporting Units with Zero or Negative Carrying Amounts (a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force)”
 
Effective December 30, 2010, we adopted ASU No. 2010-28, which modifies Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test for reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts. The guidance requires an entity to perform Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test if it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists. In determining whether it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists, an entity should consider whether there are any adverse qualitative factors indicating that an impairment may exist. The adoption did not have a material impact on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Accounting Standards to be Adopted
 
Fair Value
 
ASU No. 2011-04, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs”

In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-04 to provide a consistent definition of fair value and ensure that the fair value measurement and disclosure requirements are similar between U.S. GAAP and IFRS. The amended guidance changes certain fair value measurement principles and enhances the disclosure requirements particularly for Level 3 fair value measurements. We are required to adopt the provisions of this ASU in the first quarter of 2012. We do not believe the adoption will have a material impact on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Comprehensive Income
 
ASU No. 2011-05, "Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Presentation of Comprehensive Income"
 
In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-05, which amends existing guidance to allow only two options for presenting the components of net income and other comprehensive income: (1) in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or (2) in two separate but consecutive financial statements consisting of an income statement followed by a statement of other comprehensive income. ASU No. 2011-05 requires retrospective application. We are required to adopt the provisions of this ASU in the first quarter of 2012.  We do not believe the adoption will have a material impact on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Note 3.     Receivables
 
Receivables were comprised of the following:
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
December 29, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Current assets:
           
Receivables:
           
Trade accounts receivable from franchisees
 
$
11,011
   
$
11,538
 
Notes receivable from franchisees and third parties
   
1,638
     
1,020
 
Vendor receivables
   
1,246
     
2,571
 
Credit card receivables
   
1,044
     
1,206
 
Other
   
1,318
     
1,152
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
   
(337
)
   
(207
)
Total receivables
 
$
15,920
   
$
17,280
 
Direct financing lease receivables (included as a component of prepaid
and other current assets)
 
$
74
   
$
74
 
                 
Noncurrent assets (included as a component of other noncurrent assets):
               
Notes receivable from franchisees and third parties
 
$
810
   
$
1,329
 
Direct financing lease receivables
   
5,300
     
5,119
 
Total noncurrent receivables
 
$
6,110
   
$
6,448
 

During the quarters ended June 29, 2011 and June 30, 2010, we reversed provisions for credit losses of $0.1 million and recorded provisions for credit losses of $0.1 million, respectively.  During both the two quarters ended June 29, 2011 and June 30, 2010, we recorded provisions for credit losses of $0.1 million.
 
 Note 4.     Assets Held for Sale

Assets held for sale of $0.7 million and $1.9 million as of June 29, 2011 and December 29, 2010, respectively, include restaurants and real estate to be sold to franchisees. We expect to sell each of these assets within 12 months. Our credit facility (as described in Note 8) requires us to make mandatory prepayments to reduce outstanding indebtedness with the net cash proceeds from the sale of restaurant assets and restaurant operations to franchisees, net of a voluntary $25.0 million annual exclusion. As of June 29, 2011 and December 29, 2010, no reclassification of long-term debt to current liabilities was necessary pursuant to this requirement. There were no impairment charges recognized related to assets held for sale for the quarters ended June 29, 2011 and June 30, 2010, respectively. 

 
8

 
 
Note 5.    Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

 The following table reflects the changes in carrying amounts of goodwill:
 
   
June 29, 2011
 
   
(In thousands)
Balance, beginning of year
 
$
31,308
 
Adjustments associated with sale of restaurants
   
2
 
Reclassification to assets held for sale
   
(92
)
Balance, end of period
 
$
31,218
 
 
Goodwill and intangible assets were comprised of the following:
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
December 29, 2010
 
   
Gross Carrying Amount
   
Accumulated Amortization
   
Gross Carrying Amount
   
Accumulated Amortization
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Goodwill
 
$
31,218
   
$
   
$
31,308
   
$
 
                                 
Intangible assets with indefinite lives:
                               
Trade names
 
$
42,499
   
$
   
$
42,493
   
$
 
Liquor licenses
   
164
     
     
164
     
 
Intangible assets with definite lives:
                               
Franchise and license agreements
   
43,155
     
35,143
     
46,088
     
36,769
 
Foreign license agreements
   
241
     
169
     
241
     
163
 
Intangible assets
 
$
86,059
   
$
35,312
   
$
88,986
   
$
36,932
 
                                 
Other assets with definite lives:
                               
Software development costs
 
$
33,819
   
$
31,494
   
$
33,673
   
$
30,426
 
 
Note 6.     Operating (Gains), Losses and Other Charges, Net

Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net are comprised of the following:
 
   
Quarter Ended
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Gains on sales of assets and other, net
 
$
(879
)
 
$
(1,266
)
 
$
(1,875
)
 
$
(1,476
)
Restructuring charges and exit costs
   
402
     
1,149
 
   
869
     
1,782
 
Impairment charges
   
58
     
     
58
     
 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net
 
$
(419
)
 
$
(117
)
 
$
(948
)
 
$
306
 
 
Gains on Sales of Assets
 
During the quarter ended June 29, 2011, we recognized a $0.2 million gain on the sale of one restaurant operation to a franchisee for net proceeds of $0.3 million. In addition, during the quarter ended June 29, 2011, we recognized a $0.7 million gain on the sale of a real estate asset. During the quarter ended June 30, 2010, we recognized $1.2 million of gains on the sale of nine restaurant operations to four franchisees for net proceeds of $3.0 million (which included a note receivable of $0.2 million).
  
During the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, we recognized $0.8 million of gains on the sale of ten restaurant operations to three franchisees for net proceeds of $3.3 million (which included a note receivable of $0.5 million). In addition, during the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, we recognized a $0.7 million gain on the sale of a real estate asset and $0.4 million of deferred gains, primarily related to a restaurant sold to a franchisee during a prior period. During the two quarters ended June 30, 2010, we recognized $1.2 million of gains on the sale of nine restaurant operations to four franchisees for net proceeds of $3.0 million (which included a note receivable of $0.2 million). 
 
Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs
 
Restructuring charges and exit costs were comprised of the following: 
 
   
Quarter Ended
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Exit costs
 
$
251
   
$
235
   
$
613
   
$
863
 
Severance and other restructuring charges
   
151
     
914
     
256
     
919
 
Total restructuring and exit costs
 
$
402
   
$
1,149
   
$
869
   
$
1,782
 
 
 
9

 
 
The components of the change in accrued exit cost liabilities are as follows:
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Balance at December 29, 2010
 
$
4,948
 
Provisions for units closed during the year (1)
   
31
 
Changes in estimates of accrued exit costs, net (1) 
   
582
 
Payments, net of sublease receipts
   
(1,181
)
Interest accretion
   
227
 
Balance at June 29, 2011
   
4,607
 
Less current portion included in other current liabilities
   
1,464
 
Long-term portion included in other noncurrent liabilities
 
$
3,143
 
 
(1)
 Included as a component of operating (gains), losses and other charges, net.
 
Estimated net cash payments related to exit cost liabilities in the next five years are as follows:
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Remainder of 2011
 
$
960
 
2012
   
1,237
 
2013
   
803
 
2014
   
675
 
2015
   
368
 
Thereafter
   
1,197
 
Total
   
5,240
 
Less imputed interest
   
633
 
Present value of exit cost liabilities
 
$
4,607
 
 
As of both June 29, 2011 and December 29, 2010, we had accrued severance and other restructuring charges of $0.1 million.  The balance as of June 29, 2011 is expected to be paid during the next 12 months.
 
Note 7.     Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis
 
Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:
 
   
Fair Value Measurements as of June 29, 2011
   
Total
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets/Liabilities
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Valuation Technique
   
(In thousands)
   
Deferred compensation plan investments 
 
$
4,989
   
$
4,989
   
$
   
$
 
market approach
Total
 
$
4,989
   
$
4,989
   
$
   
$
 —
   
 
   
Fair Value Measurements as of December 29, 2010
   
Total
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets/Liabilities
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Valuation Technique
   
(In thousands)
   
Deferred compensation plan investments 
 
$
5,926
   
$
5,926
   
$
   
$
 
market approach
Total
 
$
5,926
   
$
 5,926
   
$
   
$
 —
   
 
In addition to the financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis, we measure certain assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. As of June 29, 2011, there were no such nonrecurring measurements. As of December 29, 2010, impaired assets related to underperforming units were written down to a fair value of $0 based on the income approach.
 
 
10

 
 
Fair Value of Long-Term Debt
 
The book value and estimated fair value of our long-term debt, excluding capital lease obligations, was as follows:
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
December 29, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Book value:
           
Fixed rate long-term debt
 
$
140
   
$
181
 
Variable rate long-term debt
   
220,000
     
240,000
 
Long term debt excluding capital lease obligations
 
$
220,140
   
$
240,181
 
                 
Estimate fair value:
               
Fixed rate long-term debt
 
$
140
   
$
181
 
Variable rate long-term debt
   
220,550
     
243,000
 
Long term debt excluding capital lease obligations
 
$
220,690
   
$
243,181
 
 
The difference between the estimated fair value of long-term debt compared with its historical cost reported in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at June 29, 2011 and December 29, 2010 relates to market quotations for our senior secured term loan.

Note 8.     Long-Term Debt

Our subsidiaries, Denny's, Inc. and Denny's Realty, LLC have a credit facility consisting of a $60 million senior secured revolver (with a $30 million letter of credit sublimit) and a senior secured term loan in an original principal amount of $240 million. As of June 29, 2011, we had an outstanding term loan of $217.2 million ($220.0 million less unamortized OID of $2.8 million) and outstanding letters of credit of $25.5 million under our revolving letter of credit facility. There were no revolving loans outstanding at June 29, 2011. These balances resulted in availability of $34.5 million under the revolving facility. The weighted-average interest rate under the term loan was 5.25% and 6.50%, as of June 29, 2011 and December 29, 2010.
 
During the first quarter of 2011, we amended our credit facility principally to take advantage of lower interest rates available in the senior secured debt market. Additionally, during the first quarter of 2011, we used the credit facility’s accordion feature, which allows us to increase the size of the facility up to $25 million subject to lender approval, to increase the amount available under the revolver from $50 million to $60 million.

A commitment fee of 0.625% is paid on the unused portion of the revolving credit facility. Interest on the credit facility is payable at per annum rates equal to LIBOR plus 375 basis points with a LIBOR floor of 1.50% for the term loan and no LIBOR floor for the revolver. The term loan was originally issued at 98.5% reflecting an original issue discount (“OID”) of $3.8 million. The OID is being amortized into interest expense over the life of the term loan using the effective interest rate method. The maturity date for the revolver is September 30, 2015. The maturity date for the term loan is September 30, 2016. The term loan amortizes in equal quarterly installments of $625,000 with all remaining amounts due on the maturity date. Mandatory prepayments will be required under certain circumstances and we have the option to make certain prepayments under the credit facility.
 
The credit facility is guaranteed by the Company and its material subsidiaries and is secured by substantially all of the assets of the Company and its subsidiaries, including the stock of the Company’s subsidiaries. The credit facility includes certain financial covenants with respect to a maximum leverage ratio, a maximum lease-adjusted leverage ratio, a minimum fixed charged coverage ratio and limitations on capital expenditures.
 
As a result of the debt amendment, during the first quarter of 2011, we recorded $1.4 million of losses on early extinguishment of debt, consisting primarily of $0.8 million of transaction costs, $0.4 million from the write-off of deferred financing costs and $0.2 million from the write-off of OID. These losses are included as a component of other nonoperating expense in the condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
 
During the quarter and two quarters ended June 29, 2011, we paid $10.0 million (which included $9.4 million of prepayments and $0.6 million of scheduled payments) and $20.0 million (which included $18.7 million of prepayments and $1.3 million of scheduled payments), respectively on the term loan under the credit facility through a combination of cash generated from operations and proceeds on sales of restaurant operations to franchisees, real estate and other assets. As a result of these prepayments, during the quarter ended June 29, 2011, we recorded $0.3 million of losses on early extinguishment of debt resulting from the write-off of $0.2 million in deferred financing costs and $0.1 million in OID. As a result of these prepayments, during the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, we recorded $0.6 million of losses on early extinguishment of debt resulting from the write-off of $0.4 million in deferred financing costs and $0.2 million in OID. These losses are included as a component of other nonoperating expense in our condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
 
We believe that our estimated cash flows from operations for 2011, combined with our capacity for additional borrowings under our credit facility, will enable us to meet our anticipated cash requirements and fund capital expenditures over the next twelve months.
  
 
11

 
 
Note 9.     Defined Benefit Plans
 
The components of net periodic benefit cost were as follows:

   
Pension Plan
   
Other Defined Benefit Plans
 
   
Quarter Ended
   
Quarter Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Service cost
 
$
73
   
$
94
   
$
   
$
 
Interest cost
   
850
     
858
     
31
     
34
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(1,046
)
   
(979
)
   
     
 
Amortization of net loss
   
263
     
240
     
8
     
6
 
Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
140
   
$
213
   
$
39
   
$
40
 
 
   
Pension Plan
   
Other Defined Benefit Plans
 
   
Two Quarters Ended
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Service cost
 
$
167
   
$
188
   
$
   
$
 
Interest cost
   
1,682
     
1,716
     
63
     
69
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(2,091
)
   
(1,964
)
   
     
 
Amortization of net loss
   
502
     
457
     
16
     
11
 
Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
260
   
$
397
   
$
79
   
$
80
 
 
We made contributions of $0.4 million to our qualified pension plan during the two quarters ended June 29, 2011. We did not make any contributions to our qualified pension plan during the two quarters ended June 30, 2010. We made contributions of $0.1 million to our other defined benefit plans during both the two quarters ended June 29, 2011 and June 30, 2010. We expect to contribute an additional $1.5 million to our qualified pension plan and an additional $0.1 million to our other defined benefit plans over the remainder of fiscal 2011.

Additional minimum pension liability of $19.2 million is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Shareholders’ Deficit and Comprehensive Loss as of June 29, 2011 and December 29, 2010.
 
Note 10.     Share-Based Compensation

Total share-based compensation included as a component of net income was as follows:

   
Quarter Ended
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Share-based compensation related to liability
classified restricted stock units
 
$
93
   
$
(513
)
 
$
260
   
$
211
 
Share based compensation related to equity
classified awards:
                               
Stock options
 
$
264
   
$
225
   
$
522
   
$
535
 
Restricted stock units
   
636
     
105
     
1,076
     
408
 
Board deferred stock units
   
183
     
74
     
291
     
95
 
Total share-based compensation related to
equity classified awards
   
1,083
     
404
     
1,889
     
1,038
 
Total share-based compensation
 
$
1,176
   
$
(109
)
 
$
2,149
   
$
1,249
 
 
Stock Options

During the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, we granted approximately 0.9 million stock options to certain employees. These stock options vest evenly over 3 years and have a 10-year contractual life.
 
The weighted average fair value per option for options granted during the two quarters ended June 29, 2011 was $1.98. The fair value of these stock options was estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Use of this option pricing model requires the input of subjective assumptions. These assumptions include estimating the length of time employees will retain their vested stock options before exercising them (“expected term”), the estimated volatility of our common stock price over the expected term and the number of options that will ultimately not complete their vesting requirements (i.e., forfeitures). Changes in the subjective assumptions can materially affect the estimate of the fair value of share-based compensation and, consequently, the related amount recognized in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
 
 
12

 
 
We used the following weighted average assumptions for the stock option grants for the two quarters ended June 29, 2011:
 
Dividend yield
   
0.0
%
Expected volatility
   
60.3
%
Risk-free interest rate
   
2.02
%
Weighted average expected term
 
4.7 years
 
The dividend yield assumption was based on our dividend payment history and expectations of future dividend payments. The expected volatility was based on the historical volatility of our stock for a period approximating the expected life. The risk-free interest rate was based on published U.S. Treasury spot rates in effect at the time of grant with terms approximating the expected life of the option. The weighted average expected term of the options represents the period of time the options are expected to be outstanding based on historical trends.
 
As of June 29, 2011, we had approximately $2.1 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock option awards outstanding, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average of 2.0 years.
 
Restricted Stock Units
 
In February 2011, we granted approximately 0.2 million performance shares and related performance-based target cash awards of $0.7 million to certain employees. Since these awards contain a market condition, a Monte Carlo valuation was used to determine the performance shares' grant date fair value of $4.63 per share and the payout probability of the target cash awards. The awards granted to our named executive officers also contain a performance condition based on certain operating measures for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2011. The performance period is the three year fiscal period beginning December 30, 2010 and ending December 25, 2013. The performance shares and cash awards will vest and be earned (from 0% to 150% of the target award for each such increment) at the end of the performance period based on the Total Shareholder Return of our stock compared to the Total Shareholder Returns of a group of peer companies.
 
Also in February 2011, we granted approximately 0.2 million performance-based restricted stock units as an employment incentive related to the hiring of our new Chief Executive Officer. Since these awards contain a market condition, a Monte Carlo valuation was used to determine the grant date fair value. The weighted average fair value per share was $3.29. The units will vest and be earned if the closing price of Denny’s common stock meets or exceeds set price hurdles for 20 consecutive days. The performance period is the five year period beginning February 1, 2011 and ending February 1, 2016.  

During the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, we issued 0.1 million shares of common stock, net of less than 0.1 million shares that were used to pay for taxes, related to restricted stock unit awards.
 
Accrued compensation expense included as a component of the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet was as follows:
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
December 29, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Liability classified restricted stock units:
           
Other current liabilities
 
$
633
   
$
414
 
Other noncurrent liabilities
 
$
307
   
$
365
 
                 
Equity classified restricted stock units:
               
Additional paid-in capital
 
$
4,925
   
$
4,259
 
 
As of June 29, 2011, we had approximately $2.5 million of unrecognized compensation cost (approximately $0.7 million for liability classified units and approximately $1.8 million for equity classified units) related to all unvested restricted stock unit awards outstanding, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average of 0.9 years.
 
Board Deferred Stock Units

During the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, we granted 0.2 million deferred stock units (which are equity classified) with a weighted average grant date fair value of $4.00 per unit to non-employee members of our Board of Directors. A director may elect to convert these awards into shares of common stock either on a specific date in the future (while still serving as a member of the Board of Directors) or upon termination as a member of the Board of Directors. During the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, less than 0.1 million deferred stock units were converted into shares of common stock.
 
Note 11.     Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss 
 
Total comprehensive income was $12.3 million and $10.2 million for the two quarters ended June 29, 2011 and June 30, 2010, respectively.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Shareholder’s Deficit and Comprehensive Loss was comprised of additional minimum pension liability of $19.2 million as of both June 29, 2011 and December 29, 2010.
 
 
13

 
 
Note 12.     Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes was $0.4 and $0.6 million for both the quarter and two quarters ended June 29, 2011 and the quarter and two quarters ended June 30, 2010. The provision for income taxes for the first two quarters of 2011 and 2010 was determined using our effective rate estimated for the entire fiscal year. We have provided valuation allowances related to any benefits from income taxes resulting from the application of a statutory tax rate to our net operating losses (“NOL”) generated in previous periods.
 
In conjunction with our ongoing review of our actual results and anticipated future earnings, we have reassessed the possibility of releasing all or a portion of the valuation allowance currently in place for our deferred tax assets. Based upon this assessment, a release of the valuation allowance is not appropriate as of June 29, 2011, but may occur during 2011 or 2012. The required accounting for a release of the valuation allowance may result in a significant tax benefit and impact earnings in the quarter in which it is deemed appropriate to release all or a portion of the reserve. 

Note 13.     Net Income Per Share
 
   
Quarter Ended
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands, except for per share amounts)
 
Numerator:
                       
Numerator for basic and diluted net income per
share - net income
 
$
8,130
   
$
5,458
   
$
12,254
   
$
10,046
 
                                 
Denominator:
                               
Denominator for basic net income per share –
weighted average shares
   
98,421
     
99,263
     
98,700
     
98,179
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
                               
Options
   
998
     
1,235
     
1,139
     
1,585
 
Restricted stock units and awards
   
1,183
     
1,485
     
1,137
     
1,304
 
Denominator for diluted net income per
share – adjusted weighted average
shares and assumed conversions of
dilutive securities
   
100,602
     
101,983
     
100,976
     
101,068
 
                                 
Basic and diluted net income per share
 
$
0.08
   
$
0.05
   
$
0.12
   
$
0.10
 
                                 
Stock options excluded (1)
   
2,372
     
2,313
     
2,230
     
2,231
 
Restricted stock units and awards excluded (1)
   
538
     
     
747
     
 

(1)
Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding as the impact would have been antidilutive.
 
Note 14.     Supplemental Cash Flow Information

   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Income taxes paid, net
 
$
737
   
$
882
 
Interest paid
 
$
12,705
   
$
12,612
 
                 
Noncash investing activities:
               
Notes received in connection with disposition of property
 
$
500
   
$
200
 
Execution of direct financing leases
 
$
218
   
$
 
                 
Noncash financing activities:
               
Issuance of common stock, pursuant to share-based compensation plans
 
$
450
   
$
438
 
Execution of capital leases
 
$
2,674
   
$
2,084
 
Treasury stock payable
 
$
294
   
$
 
 
Note 15.     Share Repurchase
 
Our credit facility permits the payment of cash dividends and the purchase of Denny’s stock subject to certain limitations. In November 2010, the Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program authorizing us to repurchase up to 3.0 million shares of our Common Stock. Under the program, we could, from time to time, purchase shares through December 31, 2011 in the open market (including pre-arranged stock trading plans in accordance with the guidelines specified in Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) or in privately negotiated transactions, subject to market and business conditions. During the first quarter of 2011, we repurchased 2.0 million shares for approximately $7.6 million. As of March 30, 2011, we had repurchased 3.0 million shares of Common Stock for approximately $11.5 million under the share repurchase program, thus completing the program.
 
 
14

 
 
On April 4, 2011, we announced that our Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program authorizing us to repurchase up to an additional 6.0 million shares of our Common Stock. Under the program, we could, from time to time, purchase shares in the open market (including pre-arranged stock trading plans in accordance with the guidelines specified in Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) or in privately negotiated transactions, subject to market and business conditions. As of June 29, 2011, we had repurchased 1.8 million shares of Common Stock for approximately $7.0 million under this share repurchase program.
 
Repurchased shares are included as treasury stock in the condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and the condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Deficit and Comprehensive Loss.

Note 16.     Related Party Transactions
 
During the quarter and two quarters ended June 29, 2011, we sold a company-owned restaurant to a franchisee that is a former employee. We received cash proceeds of $0.3 million and recognized a gain of $0.2 million from this related party sales. In relation to this sale, we entered into a subleases with the franchisee at fair market value.

Note 17.     Commitments and Contingencies
  
There are various claims and pending legal actions against or indirectly involving us, including actions involving employees and guests, other employment related matters, taxes, sales of franchise rights and businesses and other matters. Based on our examination of these matters and our experience to date, we have recorded reserves reflecting our best estimate of liability, if any, with respect to these matters. However, the ultimate disposition of these matters cannot be determined with certainty. We record legal expenses and other litigation costs as those costs are incurred.
 
Note 18.     Subsequent Events

We performed an evaluation of subsequent events and determined that no events required disclosure.

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

Forward-Looking Statements

The following discussion is intended to highlight significant changes in our financial position as of June 29, 2011 and results of operations for the quarter and two quarters ended June 29, 2011 compared to the quarter and two quarters ended June 30, 2010. The forward-looking statements included in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, which reflect our best judgment based on factors currently known, involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause our actual performance to be materially different from the performance indicated or implied by such statements. Such factors include, among others: competitive pressures from within the restaurant industry; the level of success of our operating initiatives and advertising and promotional efforts; adverse publicity; changes in business strategy or development plans; terms and availability of capital; regional weather conditions; overall changes in the general economy (including with regard to energy costs), particularly at the retail level; political environment (including acts of war and terrorism); and other factors included in the discussion below, or in Part II. Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Part I. Item 1A. Risk Factors, contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2010.
 
 
15

 
 
Statements of Operations
 
The following table contains information derived from our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations expressed as a percentage of total operating revenues, except as noted below.  Percentages may not add due to rounding.
 
   
Quarter Ended
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Revenue:
                                               
Company restaurant sales
  $ 104,021       76.6 %   $ 105,301       78.0 %   $ 208,576       76.8 %   $ 213,084       78.2 %
Franchise and license revenue
    31,832       23.4 %     29,776       22.0 %     63,082       23.2 %     59,565       21.8 %
Total operating revenue
    135,853       100.0 %     135,077       100.0 %     271,658       100.0 %     272,649       100.0 %
                                                                 
Costs of company restaurant sales (a):
                                                               
Product costs
    25,613       24.6 %     24,500       23.3 %     51,248       24.6 %     50,192       23.6 %
Payroll and benefits
    42,419       40.8 %     43,363       41.2 %     86,615       41.5 %     87,539       41.1 %
Occupancy
    6,793       6.5 %     6,908       6.6 %     13,653       6.5 %     14,309       6.7 %
Other operating expenses
    15,329       14.7 %     15,994       15.2 %     30,586       14.7 %     31,858       15.0 %
Total costs of company restaurant sales
    90,154       86.7 %     90,765       86.2 %     182,102       87.3 %     183,898       86.3 %
                                                                 
Costs of franchise and license revenue (a)
    11,085       34.8 %     11,123       37.4 %     22,650       35.9 %     23,489       39.4 %
                                                                 
General and administrative expenses
    14,092       10.4 %     13,111       9.7 %     28,231       10.4 %     26,185       9.6 %
Depreciation and amortization
    7,234       5.3 %     7,291       5.4 %     14,422       5.3 %     14,664       5.4 %
Operating (gains), losses and other charges
    (419 )     (0.3 %)     (117 )     (0.1 %)     (948 )     (0.3 %)     306       0.1 %
Total operating costs and expenses
    122,146       89.9 %     122,173       90.4 %     246,457       90.7 %     248,542       91.2 %
Operating income
    13,707       10.1 %     12,904       9.6 %     25,201       9.3 %     24,107       8.8 %
Other expenses:
                                                               
Interest expense, net
    4,901       3.6 %     6,514       4.8 %     10,594       3.9 %     12,912       4.7 %
Other nonoperating expense, net
    268       0.2 %     570       0.4 %     1,746       0.6 %     558       0.2 %
Total other expenses, net
    5,169       3.8 %     7,084       5.2 %     12,340       4.5 %     13,470       4.9 %
Net income before income taxes
    8,538       6.3 %     5,820       4.3 %     12,861       4.7 %     10,637       3.9 %
Provision for income taxes
    408       0.3 %     362       0.3 %     607       0.2 %     591       0.2 %
Net income
  $ 8,130       6.0 %   $ 5,458       4.0 %   $ 12,254       4.5 %   $ 10,046       3.7 %
                                                                 
Other Data:
                                                               
Company-owned average unit sales
  $ 463             $ 448             $ 915             $ 906          
Franchise average unit sales
  $ 349             $ 339             $ 688             $ 681          
Company-owned equivalent units (b)
    224               235               228               235          
Franchise equivalent units (b)
    1,442               1,322               1,436               1,321          
Same-store sales increase (decrease) (company-
owned) (c)(d)
    2.6 %             (6.2 %)             0.6 %             (5.8 %)        
Guest check average increase (decrease) (d)
    1.2 %             (2.7 %)             0.5 %             (1.3 %)        
Guest count increase (decrease) (d)
    1.4 %             (3.7 %)             0.1 %             (4.6 %)        
Same-store sales increase (decrease) (franchised and
licensed units) (c) (d)
    1.8 %             (5.9 %)             0.0 %             (6.1 %)        
__________________
(a)
Costs of company restaurant sales percentages are as a percentage of company restaurant sales. Costs of franchise and license revenue percentages are as a percentage of franchise and license revenue. All other percentages are as a percentage of total operating revenue.
   
(b)
Equivalent units are calculated as the weighted average number of units outstanding during a defined time period.
   
(c)
Same-store sales include sales from restaurants that were open the same period in the prior year.
   
(d)
Prior year amounts have not been restated for 2011 comparable units.
 
 
16

 
 
Quarter Ended June 29, 2011 Compared with Quarter Ended June 30, 2010
 
Unit Activity
 
   
Quarter Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
Company-owned restaurants, beginning of period
   
226
     
237
 
Units opened
   
1
     
 
Units sold to franchisees
   
(1
)
   
(9
)
Units closed
   
(1
)
   
 —
 
End of period
   
225
     
228
 
                 
Franchised and licensed restaurants, beginning of period
   
1,439
     
1,322
 
Units opened 
   
17
     
7
 
Units relocated
   
1
     
             1
 
Units purchased from Company
   
1
     
9
 
Units closed (including units relocated)
   
(6
)
   
(11
)
End of period
   
1,452
     
1,328
 
Total restaurants, end of period
   
 1,677
     
 1,556
 

Of the 19 units opened and relocated during the quarter ended June 29, 2011, one company-owned and seven franchise units represent conversions and openings of restaurants at Pilot Flying J Travel Centers. Of the eight units opened and relocated during the quarter ended June 30, 2010, one franchise unit represents the conversion of a restaurant at a Pilot Flying J Travel Center.
 
Company Restaurant Operations
 
During the quarter ended June 29, 2011, we realized a 2.6% increase in same-store sales, comprised of a 1.4% increase in guest counts and a 1.2% increase in guest check average. Company restaurant sales decreased $1.3 million, or 1.2%, primarily resulting from an 11 equivalent-unit decrease in company-owned restaurants, partially offset by the increase in same-store sales for the quarter. The decrease in equivalent units primarily resulted from the sale of company-owned restaurants to franchisees.
 
Total costs of company restaurant sales as a percentage of company restaurant sales increased to 86.7% from 86.2%. Product costs increased to 24.6% from 23.3% primarily due to the impact of increased commodity costs. Payroll and benefits decreased to 40.8% from 41.2% primarily due to improved scheduling of restaurant staff and management, partially offset by an increase in performance based compensation and higher state unemployment taxes. Occupancy costs decreased to 6.5% from 6.6%. Other operating expenses were comprised of the following amounts and percentages of company restaurant sales: 

   
Quarter Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Utilities
 
$
4,590
     
4.4
%
 
$
4,391
     
4.2
%
Repairs and maintenance
   
1,890
     
1.8
%
   
1,999
     
1.9
%
Marketing
   
3,971
     
3.8
%
   
4,522
     
4.3
%
Legal settlement costs
   
(14
)
   
(0.0
%)
   
77
     
0.1
%
Other direct costs
   
4,892
     
4.7
%
   
5,005
     
4.8
%
Other operating expenses
 
$
15,329
     
14.7
%
 
$
15,994
     
15.2
%
 
Marketing decreased 0.5 percentage points primarily as a result of additional corporate investment in media in the prior year period.

Franchise Operations
 
Franchise and license revenue and related costs were comprised of the following amounts and percentages of franchise and license revenue for the periods indicated:
 
   
Quarter Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Royalties  
 
$
19,926
     
62.6
%
 
$
17,824
     
59.9
%
Initial and other fees
   
708
     
 2.2
%
   
679
     
 2.3
%
Occupancy revenue 
   
11,198
     
35.2
%
   
11,273
     
37.8
%
Franchise and license revenue 
 
$
31,832
     
100.0
%
 
$
29,776
     
100.0
%
                                 
Occupancy costs 
   
8,658
     
27.2
%
   
8,642
     
29.0
%
Other direct costs 
   
2,427
     
7.6
%
   
2,481
     
8.4
%
Costs of franchise and license revenue 
 
$
11,085
     
34.8
%
 
$
11,123
     
37.4
%
 
 
17

 
 
Royalties increased by $2.1 million, or 11.8%, primarily resulting from a 120 equivalent unit increase in franchised and licensed units, as compared to the prior year, and a 1.8% increase in same-store sales. The increase in equivalent units primarily resulted from the conversion of restaurants at Pilot Flying J Travel Centers during 2010 and 2011. Initial fees remained relatively constant, as the increase in fees from restaurant openings was offset by a decrease in fees from restaurants sold to franchisees during 2011. Occupancy revenue also remained relatively constant, as the increase due to the sale of restaurants to franchisees over the last 12 months was offset by the impact of lease expirations and terminations.
 
Costs of franchise and license revenue and its components, occupancy costs and other direct costs, remained relatively constant. As a result, costs of franchise and license revenue as a percentage of franchise and license revenue decreased to 34.8% for the quarter ended June 29, 2011 from 37.4% for the quarter ended June 30, 2010.

Other Operating Costs and Expenses

Other operating costs and expenses such as general and administrative expenses and depreciation and amortization expense relate to both company and franchise operations.

General and administrative expenses were comprised of the following:

 
Quarter Ended
 
 
June 29, 2011
 
June 30, 2010
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Share-based compensation
 
$
1,176
   
$
(109
)
Other general and administrative expenses
   
12,916
     
13,220
 
Total general and administrative expenses
 
$
14,092
   
$
13,111
 
 
The $1.3 million increase in share-based compensation expense is primarily due to reductions in the prior year related to forfeitures, the adjustment of the liability classified restricted stock units to fair value and the issuance of employment inducement awards to certain employees. Other general and administrative expenses decreased $0.3 million. This decrease is primarily the result of $1.5 million in proxy contest costs incurred during the prior year period, partially offset by an increase in performance based and deferred compensation and an increase in headcount, including executive positions that were vacant in the prior year period.
 
Depreciation and amortization was comprised of the following:

 
Quarter Ended
 
 
June 29, 2011
 
June 30, 2010
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Depreciation of property and equipment
 
$
5,263
   
$
5,328
 
Amortization of capital lease assets
   
778
     
691
 
Amortization of intangible assets
   
1,193
     
1,272
 
Total depreciation and amortization expense
 
$
7,234
   
$
7,291
 
 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net were comprised of the following:

 
Quarter Ended
 
 
June 29, 2011
 
June 30, 2010
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Gains on sales of assets and other, net
 
$
(879
)
 
$
(1,266
)
Restructuring charges and exit costs
   
402
     
1,149
 
Impairment charges
   
58
     
 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net
 
$
(419
)
 
$
(117
)
 
During the quarter ended June 29, 2011, we recognized gains of $0.9 million, primarily resulting from the sale of one restaurant operation to a franchisee and the sale of one real estate asset. During the quarter ended June 30, 2010, we recognized gains of $1.3 million, primarily resulting from the sale of nine restaurant operations to four franchisees.
 
Restructuring charges and exit costs were comprised of the following:
 
 
Quarter Ended
 
 
June 29, 2011
 
June 30, 2010
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Exit costs
 
$
251
   
$
235
 
Severance and other restructuring charges
   
151
     
914
 
Total restructuring and exit costs
 
$
402
   
$
1,149
 
 
Severance and other restructuring charges for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 includes $0.8 million related to the departure of the Company's former Chief Executive Officer.
 
 
18

 
 
Operating income was $13.7 million for the quarter ended June 29, 2011 compared with $12.9 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2010.
 
Interest expense, net was comprised of the following:
 
   
Quarter Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Interest on credit facilities
 
$
3,034
   
$
444
 
Interest on senior notes
   
     
4,363
 
Interest on capital lease liabilities
   
944
     
1,046
 
Letters of credit and other fees
   
461
     
387
 
Interest income
   
(328
)
   
(388
)
Total cash interest
   
4,111
     
5,852
 
Amortization of deferred financing costs
   
370
     
258
 
Amortization of debt discount
   
140
     
 
Interest accretion on other liabilities
   
280
     
404
 
Total interest expense, net
 
$
4,901
   
$
6,514
 

The decrease in interest expense resulted from a decrease in interest rates related to the 2010 refinancing and 2011 re-pricing of our credit facility, as well as debt reductions during both years.
 
Other nonoperating expense, net was $0.3 million for the quarter ended June 29, 2011 compared with $0.6 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2010.
 
The provision for income taxes was $0.4 million for both the quarter ended June 29, 2011 and the quarter ended June 30, 2010. The provision for income taxes for the first quarters of 2011 and 2010 was determined using our effective rate estimated for the entire fiscal year. We have provided valuation allowances related to any benefits from income taxes resulting from the application of a statutory tax rate to our net operating losses (NOL) generated in previous periods. In conjunction with our ongoing review of our actual results and anticipated future earnings, we have reassessed the possibility of releasing all or a portion of the valuation allowance currently in place for our deferred tax assets. Based upon this assessment, a release of the valuation allowance is not appropriate as of June 29, 2011, but may occur during 2011 or 2012. The required accounting for a release of the valuation allowance may result in a significant tax benefit and impact earnings in the quarter in which it is deemed appropriate to release all or a portion of the reserve.
 
Net income was $8.1 million for the quarter ended June 29, 2011 compared with $5.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 due to the factors noted above.
 
Two Quarters Ended June 29, 2011 Compared with Two Quarters Ended June 30, 2010
  
Unit Activity

   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
Company-owned restaurants, beginning of period
   
232
     
233
 
Units opened
   
6
     
4
 
Units sold to franchisees
   
(10
)
   
(9
)
Units closed
   
(3
)
   
 
End of period
   
225
     
228
 
                 
Franchised and licensed restaurants, beginning of period
   
1,426
     
1,318
 
Units opened 
   
30
     
13
 
Units relocated
   
1
     
1
 
Units purchased from Company
   
10
     
9
 
Units closed (including units relocated)
   
(15
)
   
(13
)
End of period
   
1,452
     
1,328
 
Total restaurants, end of period
   
1,677
     
1,556
 
 
Of the 37 units opened and relocated during the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, six company-owned and 14 franchise units represent conversions and openings of restaurants at Pilot Flying J Travel Centers. Of the 18 units opened and relocated during the two quarters ended June 30, 2010, four company-owned and one franchise unit represent conversions and openings of restaurants at Pilot Flying J Travel Centers.
 
Company Restaurant Operations

During the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, we realized a 0.6% increase in same-store sales, comprised of a 0.5% increase in guest check average and a 0.1% increase in guest counts. Company restaurant sales decreased $4.5 million, or 2.1%, primarily resulting from a seven equivalent-unit decrease in company-owned restaurants. The decrease in equivalent-units primarily resulted from the sale of company-owned restaurants to franchisees.

Total costs of company restaurant sales as a percentage of company restaurant sales increased to 87.3% from 86.3%. Product costs increased to 24.6% from 23.6% primarily due to the impact of increased commodity costs. Payroll and benefits increased to 41.5% from 41.1% primarily due to an increase in performance based compensation and unfavorable workers’ compensation claims development. Occupancy costs decreased to 6.5% from 6.7%. Other operating expenses were comprised of the following amounts and percentages of company restaurant sales:
 
 
19

 
 
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Utilities
 
$
8,979
     
4.3
%
 
$
9,042
     
4.2
%
Repairs and maintenance
   
3,732
     
1.8
%
   
3,944
     
1.9
%
Marketing
   
7,812
     
3.7
%
   
8,824
     
4.1
%
Legal
   
63
     
0.0
%
   
200
     
0.1
%
Other direct costs
   
10,000
     
4.8
%
   
9,848
     
4.6
%
Other operating expenses
 
$
30,586
     
14.7
%
 
$
31,858
     
15.0
%

Marketing decreased 0.4 percentage points primarily as a result of additional corporate investment in media in the prior year period. Other direct costs increased 0.2 percentage points primarily as a result of expenses related to new store openings.
 
Franchise Operations

Franchise and license revenue and costs of franchise and license revenue were comprised of the following amounts and percentages of franchise and license revenue for the periods indicated:

   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Royalties
 
$
39,220
     
62.2
%
 
$
35,818
     
60.1
%
Initial fees
   
1,613
     
2.6
%
   
 1,112
     
  1.9
%
Occupancy revenue
   
22,249
     
35.3
%
   
22,635
     
38.0
%
Franchise and license revenue
 
$
63,082
     
100.0
%
 
$
59,565
     
100.0
%
                                 
Occupancy costs
   
17,218
     
27.3
%
   
17,319
     
29.1
%
Other direct costs
   
5,432
     
8.6
%
   
6,170
     
10.3
%
Costs of franchise and license revenue
 
$
22,650
     
35.9
%
 
$
23,489
     
39.4
%
 
Royalties increased by $3.4 million, or 9.5%, primarily resulting from the effects of a 115 equivalent-unit increase in franchised and licensed units, as compared to the prior year, and flat same-store sales. The increase in equivalent-units primarily resulted from the conversion of restaurants at Pilot Flying J Travel Centers during 2010 and 2011. Initial fees increased by $0.5 million, or 45.1%. The increase in initial fees resulted from the higher number of restaurants opened by franchisees during the current year period. The decrease in occupancy revenue of $0.4 million, or 1.7%, is primarily the result of lease expirations and terminations where the franchisee has obtained their own lease with the landlord and we are no longer party to the lease.

Costs of franchise and license revenue decreased by $0.8 million, or 3.6%. The decrease in occupancy costs of $0.1 million, or 0.6%, is primarily the result of lease expirations and termination as described above. Other direct costs decreased by $0.7 million, or 12.0%, primarily as a result of franchise-related costs associated with our Super Bowl promotion in the prior year, partially offset by a $0.5 million franchisee settlement. As a result, costs of franchise and license revenue as a percentage of franchise and license revenue decreased to 35.9% for the two quarters ended June 29, 2011 from 39.4% for the two quarters ended June 30, 2010.
 
Other Operating Costs and Expenses
 
Other operating costs and expenses such as general and administrative expenses and depreciation and amortization expense relate to both company and franchise operations.
 
General and administrative expenses are comprised of the following:

   
Two Quarters Ended
 
  
 
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Share-based compensation
 
$
2,149
   
$
1,249
 
General and administrative expenses
   
26,082
     
24,936
 
Total general and administrative expenses
 
$
28,231
   
$
26,185
 
 
The $0.9 million increase in share-based compensation expense is primarily due to the issuance of employment inducement awards to certain employees and reductions in the prior year related to forfeitures. Other general and administrative expenses increased $1.1 million.  This increase is primarily the result of an increase in performance based and deferred compensation and an increase in headcount, including executive positions that were vacant in the prior year period, partially offset by $2.0 million in proxy contest costs incurred during the 2010 period.
 
 
20

 
 
Depreciation and amortization is comprised of the following:

   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Depreciation of property and equipment
 
$
10,544
   
$
10,796
 
Amortization of capital lease assets
   
1,497
     
1,345
 
Amortization of intangible assets
   
2,381
     
2,523
 
Total depreciation and amortization expense
 
$
14,422
   
$
14,664
 
 
The overall decrease in depreciation and amortization expense is due primarily to the sale of company-owned restaurants to franchisees during fiscal 2010 and 2011.
 
Operating gains, losses and other charges, net are comprised of the following:

   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Gains on sales of assets and other, net
 
$
(1,875
)
 
$
(1,476
)
Restructuring charges and exit costs
   
869
     
1,782
 
Impairment charges
   
58
     
 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net
 
$
(948
)
 
$
306
 
 
During the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, we recognized gains of $1.9 million, primarily resulting from the sale of ten restaurant operations to three franchisees, the sale of one real estate asset and deferred gains related to a restaurant sold to a franchisee during a prior period. During the two quarters ended June 30, 2010, we recognized gains of $1.5 million, primarily resulting from the sale of nine restaurant operations to four franchisees.
 
 Restructuring charges and exit costs were comprised of the following:
         
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Exit costs 
 
$
613
   
$
863
 
Severance and other restructuring charges
   
256
     
919
 
Total restructuring and exit costs
 
$
869
   
$
1,782
 
 
Severance and other restructuring charges for the two quarters ended June 30, 2010 includes $0.8 million related to the departure of the Company's former Chief Executive Officer.
 
Operating income was $25.2 million for the two quarters ended June 29, 2011 and $24.1 million for the two quarters ended June 30, 2010.
 
Interest expense, net is comprised of the following:

   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Interest on credit facilities
 
$
6,749
   
$
927
 
Interest on senior notes
   
     
8,726
 
Interest on capital lease liabilities
   
1,952
     
1,979
 
Letters of credit and other fees
   
1,014
     
776
 
Interest income
   
(630
)
   
(838
)
Total cash interest
   
9,085
     
11,570
 
Amortization of deferred financing costs
   
662
     
517
 
Amortization of debt discount
   
284
     
 
Interest accretion on other liabilities
   
563
     
825
 
Total interest expense, net
 
$
10,594
   
$
12,912
 
 
The decrease in interest expense resulted from a decrease in interest rates related to the 2010 refinancing and 2011 re-pricing of our credit facility, as well as debt reductions during both years.
 
Other nonoperating expense, net was $1.7 million for the two quarters ended June 29, 2011 compared with $0.6 million for the two quarters ended June 30, 2010.
 
 
21

 
 
The provision for income taxes was $0.6 million for both the two quarters ended June 29, 2011 and the two quarters ended June 30, 2010. The provision for income taxes for the first two quarters of 2011 and 2010 was determined using our effective rate estimated for the entire fiscal year. We have provided valuation allowances related to any benefits from income taxes resulting from the application of a statutory tax rate to our NOL generated in previous periods. In conjunction with our ongoing review of our actual results and anticipated future earnings, we have reassessed the possibility of releasing all or a portion of the valuation allowance currently in place for our deferred tax assets. Based upon this assessment, a release of the valuation allowance is not appropriate as of June 29, 2011, but may occur during 2011 or 2012. The required accounting for a release of the valuation allowance may result in a significant tax benefit and impact earnings in the quarter in which it is deemed appropriate to release all or a portion of the reserve.
 
Net income was $12.3 million for the two quarters ended June 29, 2011 compared with $10.0 million for the two quarters ended June 30, 2010 due to the factors noted above.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our primary sources of liquidity and capital resources are cash generated from operations, borrowings under our credit facility (as described below) and, in recent years, cash proceeds from sales of restaurant operations to franchisees and sales of surplus properties, to the extent allowed by our credit facility. Principal uses of cash are operating expenses, capital expenditures and debt repayments.
 
The following table presents a summary of our sources and uses of cash and cash equivalents for the periods indicated:
 
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
$
24,935
   
$
10,692
 
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(4,511
)
   
(297
)
Net cash used in financing activities
   
(36,561
)
   
(15,243
)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
 
$
(16,137
)
 
$
(4,848
)
  
We believe that our estimated cash flows from operations for 2011, combined with our capacity for additional borrowings under our credit facility, will enable us to meet our anticipated cash requirements and fund capital expenditures over the next twelve months.
 
Net cash flows used in investing activities were $4.5 million for the two quarters ended June 29, 2011. These cash flows include capital expenditures of $8.9 million, partially offset by $3.9 million in proceeds from asset sales and $0.5 million of notes receivable collections. Our principal capital requirements have been largely associated with the following:
  
   
Two Quarters Ended
 
   
June 29, 2011
   
June 30, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Facilities
 
$
2,527
   
$
2,742
 
New construction 
   
5,330
     
1,630
 
Remodeling
   
478
     
756
 
Information technology
   
105
     
597
 
Strategic initiatives
   
133
     
11
 
Other
   
281
     
574
 
Capital expenditures
 
$
8,854
   
$
6,310
 
 
The increase in new construction is primarily the result of the conversion of restaurants at Pilot Flying J Travel Centers. We generally expect our capital requirements to trend downward as we reduce our company-owned restaurant portfolio and remain selective in our new restaurant investments. Capital expenditures for fiscal 2011 are expected to be approximately $18 million, comprised primarily of costs related to the conversion of Pilot Flying J Travel Centers, facilities and new construction.

Cash flows used in financing activities were $36.6 million for the two quarters ended June 29, 2011, which included long-term debt payments of $22.1 million, stock repurchases of $14.3 million and deferred financing costs of $3.2 million.

Our working capital deficit was $39.9 million at June 29, 2011 compared with $27.8 million at December 29, 2010. The increase in working capital deficit primarily related to a decrease in cash resulting from $18.7 million in term loan prepayments made during 2011. We are able to operate with a substantial working capital deficit because (1) restaurant operations and most food service operations are conducted primarily on a cash (and cash equivalent) basis with a low level of accounts receivable, (2) rapid turnover allows a limited investment in inventories, and (3) accounts payable for food, beverages and supplies usually become due after the receipt of cash from the related sales.
 
Credit Facility

During the first quarter of 2011, we amended our credit facility principally to take advantage of lower interest rates available in the senior secured debt market. Additionally, during the first quarter of 2011, we used the credit facility’s accordion feature, which allows us to increase the size of the facility up to $25 million subject to lender approval, to increase the amount available under the revolver from $50 million to $60 million.
 
 
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A commitment fee of 0.625% is paid on the unused portion of the revolving credit facility. Interest on the credit facility is payable at per annum rates equal to LIBOR plus 375 basis points with a LIBOR floor of 1.50% for the term loan and no LIBOR floor for the revolver. The term loan was originally issued at 98.5% reflecting an original issue discount (“OID”) of $3.8 million. The OID is being amortized into interest expense over the life of the term loan using the effective interest rate method. The maturity date for the revolver is September 30, 2015. The maturity date for the term loan is September 30, 2016. The term loan amortizes in equal quarterly installments of $625,000 with all remaining amounts due on the maturity date. Mandatory prepayments will be required under certain circumstances and we will have the option to make certain prepayments under the credit facility.
 
The credit facility is guaranteed by the Company and its material subsidiaries and is secured by substantially all of the assets of the Company and its subsidiaries, including the stock of the Company’s subsidiaries. The credit facility includes certain financial covenants with respect to a maximum leverage ratio, a maximum lease-adjusted leverage ratio, a minimum fixed charged coverage ratio and limitations on capital expenditures. We were in compliance with the terms of the credit facility as of June 29, 2011.

As of June 29, 2011, we had an outstanding term loan of $217.2 million ($220.0 million less unamortized OID of $2.8 million) and outstanding letters of credit of $25.5 million under our revolving letter of credit facility. There were no revolving loans outstanding at June 29, 2011. These balances resulted in availability of $34.5 million under the revolving facility. As of June 29, 2011, the weighted-average interest rate under the term loan was 5.25%. 
 
Implementation of New Accounting Standards

See Note 2 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Item 3.     Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
Interest Rate Risk
 
We have exposure to interest rate risk related to certain instruments entered into for other than trading purposes. Specifically, as of June 29, 2011, borrowings under the term loan and revolver bear interest at variable rates based on LIBOR plus a spread of 375 basis points per annum with a LIBOR floor of 1.50% for the term loan and no LIBOR floor for the revolver.
 
Based on the levels of borrowings under the credit facility at June 29, 2011, if interest rates changed by 100 basis points, there would be no impact to our annual cash flow or our income before income taxes. This computation is determined by considering the impact of hypothetical interest rates on the credit facility at June 29, 2011, taking into consideration the 1.50% LIBOR floor for the term loan. However, the nature and amount of our borrowings under the credit facility may vary as a result of future business requirements, market conditions and other factors. The estimated fair value of our borrowings under the credit facility was approximately $220.6 million compared with a book value of $220.0 million at June 29, 2011. This computation is based on market quotations for the same or similar debt issues or the estimated borrowing rates available to us. Our other outstanding long-term debt bears fixed rates of interest.
 
We also have exposure to interest rate risk related to our pension plan, other defined benefit plans and self-insurance liabilities. A 25 basis point increase or decrease in discount rate would decrease or increase our projected benefit obligation related to our pension plan by approximately $1.9 million and would impact the pension plan's net periodic benefit cost by $0.1 million. The impact of a 25 basis point increase or decrease in discount rate would decrease or increase our projected benefit obligation related to our other defined benefit plans by less than $0.1 million while the plans' net periodic benefit cost would remain flat. A 25 basis point increase or decrease in discount rate related to our self-insurance liabilities would result in a decrease or increase of $0.2 million, respectively.
 
Commodity Price Risk
 
We purchase certain food products, such as beef, poultry, pork, eggs and coffee, and utilities such as gas and electricity, which are affected by commodity pricing and are, therefore, subject to price volatility caused by weather, production problems, delivery difficulties and other factors that are outside our control and which are generally unpredictable. Changes in commodity prices affect us and our competitors generally and often simultaneously. In general, we purchase food products and utilities based upon market prices established with vendors. Although many of the items purchased are subject to changes in commodity prices, the majority of our purchasing arrangements are structured to contain features that minimize price volatility by establishing fixed pricing and/or price ceilings and floors. We use these types of purchase arrangements to control costs as an alternative to using financial instruments to hedge commodity prices. In many cases, we believe we will be able to address commodity cost increases which are significant and appear to be long-term in nature by adjusting our menu pricing or changing our product delivery strategy. However, competitive circumstances could limit such actions and, in those circumstances, increases in commodity prices could lower our margins. Because of the often short-term nature of commodity pricing aberrations and our ability to change menu pricing or product delivery strategies in response to commodity price increases, we believe that the impact of commodity price risk is not significant.
 
We have established a policy to identify, control and manage market risks which may arise from changes in interest rates, commodity prices and other relevant rates and prices. We do not use derivative instruments for trading purposes.
 
Item 4.     Controls and Procedures

As required by Rule 13a-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), our management conducted an evaluation (under the supervision and with the participation of our President and Chief Executive Officer, John C. Miller, and our Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer, F. Mark Wolfinger) as of the end of the period covered by this report, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act. Based on that evaluation, Messrs. Miller and Wolfinger each concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act (i) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and (ii) is accumulated and communicated to our management, including Messrs. Miller and Wolfinger, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. 
 
 
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There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by Rule 13a-15(d) of the Exchange Act that occurred during our last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

There are various claims and pending legal actions against or indirectly involving us, including actions involving employees and guests, other employment related matters, taxes, sales of franchise rights and businesses and other matters. Based on our examination of these matters and our experience to date, we have recorded reserves reflecting our best estimate of liability, if any, with respect to these matters. However, the ultimate disposition of these matters cannot be determined with certainty. 

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer
 
The table below provides information concerning repurchases of shares of our Common Stock during the quarter ended June 29, 2011. 
 
Period
 
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
   
 
 
Average Price Paid Per Share (1)
   
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Programs (2)(3)
   
Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the Program (3)
 
   
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
   
March 31, 2011 - April 27, 2011
   
   
$
     
     
6,000
 
April 28, 2011 - May 25, 2011
   
868
     
3.93
     
868
     
5,132
 
May 26, 2011 - June 29, 2011
   
900
     
3.92
     
900
     
4,232
 
   Total
   
1,768
   
$
3.93
     
1,768
         
 
(1)
Average price paid per share excludes commissions.
(2)
On April 4, 2011, we announced that our Board of Directors had approved the repurchase of  up to 6 million shares of Common Stock (in addition to a previous 3 million share authorization completed in the first quarter), which may take place from time to time on the open market (including in pre-arranged stock trading plans in accordance with the guidelines specified in Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) or through negotiated transactions, subject to market and business conditions.
(3)
During the quarter ended June 29, 2011, we purchased 1,767,900 shares of Common Stock for an aggregate consideration of approximately $7.0 million, pursuant to the share repurchase program.
 
Item 6.     Exhibits
 
The following are included as exhibits to this report:
 
Exhibit No.
 
Description 
     
31.1
 
Certification of John C. Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer of Denny’s Corporation, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
31.2
 
Certification of F. Mark Wolfinger, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Denny’s Corporation, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
32.1
 
Certification of John C. Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer of Denny’s Corporation and F. Mark Wolfinger, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Denny’s Corporation, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
101.INS*   XBRL Instance Document
     
101.SCH*   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
     
101.CAL*   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
     
101.LAB*   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
     
101.PRE*   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
     
101.DEF*   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
 
* In accordance with Regulation S-T, the XBRL-related information in Exhibit 101 to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q shall be deemed "furnished" and not "filed."
 
 
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SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 
 
DENNY'S CORPORATION
 
       
Date:  August 5, 2011
By:    
/s/  F. Mark Wolfinger
 
   
F. Mark Wolfinger
 
   
Executive Vice President,
Chief Administrative Officer and
Chief Financial Officer
 
       
Date:  August 5, 2011
By:    
/s/  Jay C. Gilmore  
   
Jay C. Gilmore
 
   
Vice President,
Chief Accounting Officer and
Corporate Controller
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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