Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage (NGVC) 10-K 6 Dec 18 2018 FY Annual report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Dec. 03, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	1,547,459
Trading Symbol	ngvc
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Small Business	true
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		22,392,310
Entity Public Float			$ 64,654,678
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2018
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Shell Company	false

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 9,398	$ 6,521
Accounts receivable, net	4,738	4,860
Merchandise inventory	94,228	93,612
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	2,590	3,222
Total current assets	110,954	108,215
Property and equipment, net	188,768	184,417
Other assets:
Deposits and other assets	1,682	1,642
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net	5,648	5,655
Deferred financing costs, net	31	62
Total other assets	7,361	7,359
Total assets	307,083	299,991
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	61,104	56,849
Accrued expenses	17,851	14,164
Capital and financing lease obligations, current portion	736	548
Total current liabilities	79,691	71,561
Long-term liabilities:
Capital and financing lease obligations, net of current portion	40,406	32,880
Revolving credit facility	13,192	28,392
Deferred income tax liabilities, net	6,447	12,419
Deferred compensation	688	1,231
Deferred rent	11,038	10,465
Leasehold incentives	8,895	9,160
Total long-term liabilities	80,666	94,547
Total liabilities	160,357	166,108
Commitments (Notes 10 and 17)
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock, $0.001 par value. 50,000,000 shares authorized, 22,510,279 shares issued at 2018 and 2017, and 22,373,382 and 22,448,056 outstanding at 2018 and 2017, respectively	23	23
Additional paid-in capital	56,236	55,678
Retained earnings	91,507	78,846
Common stock in treasury at cost, 136,897 and 62,223 shares at 2018 and 2017, respectively	(1,040)	(664)
Total stockholders’ equity	146,726	133,883
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$ 307,083	$ 299,991

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) - $ / shares	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	50,000,000	50,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	22,510,279	22,510,279
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	22,373,382	22,448,056
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	136,897	62,223

Consolidated Statements of Inco

Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Net sales	$ 849,042	$ 769,030	$ 705,499
Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs	623,469	556,694	503,727
Gross profit	225,573	212,336	201,772
Store expenses	186,741	174,350	156,158
Administrative expenses	21,506	20,089	19,242
Pre-opening and relocation expenses	2,273	3,799	5,993
Operating income	15,053	14,098	20,379
Interest expense, net	(4,560)	(3,793)	(3,044)
Income before income taxes	10,493	10,305	17,335
Benefit from (provision for) income taxes	2,168	(3,414)	(5,864)
Net income	$ 12,661	$ 6,891	$ 11,471
Net income per share of common stock:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.57	$ 0.31	$ 0.51
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.56	$ 0.31	$ 0.51
Weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	22,361,898	22,453,409	22,492,986
Diluted (in shares)	22,413,038	22,463,675	22,507,152

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Operating activities:
Net income	$ 12,661	$ 6,891	$ 11,471
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	29,430	29,511	25,533
Impairment of long-lived assets and store closing costs	585	0	0
Gain on disposal of property and equipment		(21)	(3)
Share-based compensation	810	758	879
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense	(5,972)	241	6,971
Non-cash interest expense	12	12	13
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Accounts receivable, net	145	(1,100)	(1,171)
Income tax receivable	943	732	(1,776)
Merchandise inventory	(615)	(7,282)	(11,512)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(390)	(1,049)	(542)
Accounts payable	1,845	7,224	3,314
Accrued expenses	3,644	1,521	(7,345)
Deferred compensation	(543)	474	443
Deferred rent and leasehold incentives	308	2,937	2,552
Net cash provided by operating activities	42,863	40,849	28,827
Investing activities:
Acquisition of property and equipment	(23,717)	(41,231)	(53,759)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	34	2,732	19
Proceeds from property insurance settlements	140
Net cash used in investing activities	(23,543)	(38,499)	(53,740)
Financing activities:
Borrowings under credit facility	376,000	291,765	234,604
Repayments under credit facility	(391,200)	(290,800)	(207,176)
Repurchases of common stock	(581)	(261)	(829)
Capital and financing lease obligations payments	(573)	(479)	(423)
Payments on withholding tax for restricted stock unit vesting	(89)	(71)	(119)
Loan fees paid			(42)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	(16,443)	154	26,015
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	2,877	2,504	1,102
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	6,521	4,017	2,915
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	9,398	6,521	4,017
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Cash paid for interest	878	739	331
Cash paid for interest on capital and financing lease obligations, net of capitalized interest of $187, $482 and $538, respectively	3,611	2,972	2,637
Income taxes paid	1,958	2,656	6,370
Deferred compensation paid	700
Supplemental disclosures of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Acquisition of property and equipment not yet paid	5,254	2,843	6,837
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment not yet received	23	12
Property acquired through capital and capital financing lease obligations	8,285	1,499	4,438
Direct bank to bank payment for a change in credit facility provider			$ 18,858

Consolidated Statements of Ca_2

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Parentheticals) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Capitalized interest	$ 187	$ 482	$ 538

Consolidated Statements of Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Common Stock Outstanding [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Total
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2015	22,496,628,000
Balance at Sep. 30, 2015		$ 22	$ 54,982	$ 60,484		$ 115,488
Net income				11,471		11,471
Share-based compensation (in shares)	23,951,000
Share-based compensation		1	609		139	749
Tax shortfall related to share-based compensation			(154)			(154)
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)	(67,970,000)
Repurchase of common stock					(829)	(829)
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2016	22,452,609,000
Balance at Sep. 30, 2016		23	55,437	71,955	(690)	126,725
Net income				6,891		6,891
Share-based compensation (in shares)	25,447,000
Share-based compensation			399		288	687
Tax shortfall related to share-based compensation			(158)			$ (158)
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)	(30,000,000)					(30,000)
Repurchase of common stock					(262)	$ (262)
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2017	22,448,056,000
Balance at Sep. 30, 2017		23	55,678	78,846	(664)	133,883
Net income				12,661		12,661
Share-based compensation (in shares)	26,899,000
Share-based compensation			516		205	721
Tax shortfall related to share-based compensation			42			$ 42
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)	(101,573,000)					(101,573)
Repurchase of common stock					(581)	$ (581)
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2018	22,373,382,000
Balance at Sep. 30, 2018		$ 23	$ 56,236	$ 91,507	$ (1,040)	$ 146,726

Note 1 - Organization

Note 1 - Organization	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Nature of Operations [Text Block]	1. Nature of Business Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc. (Natural Grocers or the holding company) and its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, the Company) operate retail stores that specialize in natural and organic groceries and dietary supplements. The Company operates its retail stores under its trademark Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage 148 September 30, 2018, 37 24 12 eight seven five four three two one 140 126 September 30, 2017 2016,

Note 2 - Basis of Presentation

Note 2 - Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	2. Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include all the accounts of the holding company’s wholly owned subsidiaries, Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets, Inc. (the operating company) and Vitamin Cottage Two Ltd. Liability Company ( VC2 Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management reviews its estimates on an ongoing basis, including those related to valuation of inventories, useful lives of long-lived assets for depreciation and amortization, impairment of finite-lived intangible, long-lived assets, and goodwill, lease assumptions, allowances for self-insurance reserves, deferred tax assets and liabilities and litigation based on currently available information. Changes in facts and circumstances may Segment Information The Company has one Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include currency on hand, demand deposits with banks, money market funds and credit and debit card transactions which typically settle within three 90 Accounts Receivable Accounts receivable consists primarily of receivables from vendors for certain promotional programs, magazine advertising and other miscellaneous receivables and are presented net of any allowances for doubtful accounts. Vendor receivable balances are generally presented on a gross basis separate from any related payable due. Allowance for doubtful accounts is calculated based on historical experience and application of the specific identification method. Allowance for doubtful accounts totaled approximately $0.1 $0.2 September 30, 2018 2017, Concentration of Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist primarily of investments in cash and cash equivalents. The Company’s cash and cash equivalent account balances, which are held in major financial institutions, exceeded the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s federally insured limits by approximately $8.8 September 30, 2018. Vendor Concentration For the years ended September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, 64%, 62% 59%, Merchandise Inventory Merchandise inventory consists of goods held for sale. The cost of inventory includes certain costs associated with the preparation of inventory for sale, including inventory overhead costs. Merchandise inventory is carried at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined using the weighted average cost method. Long-Lived Assets Depreciable long-lived assets primarily consist of leasehold and building improvements, which are stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the useful life of the relevant asset. For land improvements and leasehold and building improvements, depreciation is recorded over the shorter of the assets’ useful lives or the lease terms. Maintenance, repairs and renewals that neither add to the value of the property nor appreciably prolong its life are charged to expense as incurred. Gains and losses on disposition of property and equipment are included in store expenses in the year of disposition, and primarily relate to store relocations. The Company capitalizes interest, if applicable, as part of the historical costs of buildings and leasehold and building improvements. The Company capitalizes certain costs incurred with developing or obtaining internal-use software. Capitalized software costs are included in property and equipment in the consolidated balance sheets and are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the software. Software costs that do not Impairment of Finite-Lived Intangible and Long-Lived Assets Long-lived assets, such as property and equipment and purchased intangible assets subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not first not $0.5 2018, no 2017 2016. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Intangible assets primarily consist of goodwill and trademarks. Goodwill and the Vitamin Cottage not The Company’s annual impairment testing of goodwill is performed as of July 1. first not not not two not not two first two September 30, 2018, no Deferred Financing Costs Certain costs incurred with borrowings or establishment of credit facilities are deferred. These costs are amortized over the life of the credit facility using the straight-line method. Leases The Company leases retail stores, a bulk food repackaging facility and distribution center and administrative offices under long-term operating or capital or financing leases. These leases include scheduled increases in minimum rents and renewal provisions at the option of the Company. The lease term for accounting purposes commences with the date the Company takes possession of the space and ends on the later of the primary lease term or the expiration of any renewal periods that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the inception of the lease. Operating L eases The Company accounts for operating leases with rent holidays and escalating payment terms by recognizing the associated expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term, and the difference between the average rental amount charged to expense and amounts payable under the leases are included in deferred rent. For certain leases, the Company has also received cash from landlords to compensate for costs incurred by the Company in making the store locations ready for operation (leasehold incentives). Leasehold incentives received from a landlord are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis as a reduction to rent expense over the lease term. Capital F inancing L eases From time to time, the Company enters into leases with developers for build-to-suit store locations. Upon lease execution, the Company analyzes its involvement during the construction period. may not not Capital L eases Occasionally, the Company enters into leases that are deemed to be capital leases. For these leases, the Company capitalizes the lower of the present value of the minimum lease payments or the fair value of the leased asset at inception and records a corresponding capital lease obligation. The Company does not Self-Insurance The Company is self-insured for certain losses relating to employee medical and dental benefits and workers compensation. Stop-loss coverage has been purchased to limit exposure to any significant level of claims. Self-insured losses are accrued based upon the Company’s estimates of the aggregate claims incurred but not Revenue Recognition Revenue is recognized at the point of sale, net of in-house coupons, discounts and returns. Sales taxes are not Cost of Goods Sold and Occupancy Costs Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs includes the cost of inventory sold during the period net of discounts and allowances, as well as, distribution, shipping and handling costs, store occupancy costs and costs of the bulk food repackaging facility and distribution center. The amount shown is net of various rebates from third not Store Expenses Store expenses consist of store-level expenses such as salaries, benefits and share-based compensation, supplies, utilities, depreciation, gain or loss on disposal of assets, long-lived asset impairment charges, store closing costs and other related expenses associated with operations support. Store expenses also include purchasing support services and advertising and marketing costs. Administrative Expenses Administrative expenses consist of salaries, benefits and share-based compensation, occupancy costs, depreciation, office supplies, hardware and software expenses, professional services expenses and other general and administrative expenses. Pre-Opening and Relocation Expenses Costs associated with the opening of new stores or relocating existing stores are expensed as incurred. Advertising and Marketing Advertising and marketing costs are expensed as incurred and are included in store expenses and pre-opening and relocation expenses in the consolidated statements of income. Total advertising and marketing expenses for the years ended September 30, 2018, 2017 2016 $8.2 $10.7 $10.8 $4.1 $3.2 $3.2 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, S hare - B ased C ompensation The Company adopted the 2012 July 25, 2012. The excess tax benefits for recognized compensation costs are reported as a credit to income tax expense and as operating cash outflows when such excess tax benefits are realized by a reduction to current taxes payable. Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method. This method requires recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for expected future tax consequences of temporary differences that currently exist between the tax basis and financial reporting basis of the Company’s assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in the respective jurisdictions in which the Company operates. The Company considers the need to establish valuation allowances to reduce deferred income tax assets to the amounts the Company believes are more likely than not The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not 50% Any interest or penalties incurred related to income taxes are expensed as incurred and treated as permanent differences for tax purposes. U.S. Tax Reform On December 22, 2017, January 1, 2018. 24.3% September 30, 2018 21.0% $4.3 September 30, 2018. The changes included in the Tax Reform Act are broad and complex. The final transition impacts of the Tax Reform Act may Recent Accounting Pronouncements In July 2015, 2015 11, 330, 2015 11 2015 11, first 2015 11 2015 11 December 15, 2016 2015 11 October 1, 2017. not September 30, 2018. In March 2016, 2016 09, 718, 2016 09 2016 09 2016 09 2016 09 October 1, 2017.The not September 30, 2018. In addition, under ASU 2016 09, September 30, 2018, no The Company has elected to continue to estimate the number of share-based awards expected to vest, as permitted by ASU 2016 09, ASU 2016 09 September 30, 2018. In January 2017, 2017 04, 350, 2017 04 2017 04 first two not January 1, 2017, first September 30, 2020. In February 2016, 2016 02, 842, 2016 02 No. 2016 02 12 2016 02 2016 02 first September 30, 2020, 2016 02 2018 11, 842, July 2018. The adoption of ASU 2016 02 2016 02 In January 2018, 2018 01, 842, 842” 2018 01 2018 01 not 842, not 840. 2016 02. In May 2014, 2014 09, 606, 2014 09 2014 09 2014 09’s 2014 09 one In July 2015, 2015 14, 2014 09, one December 15, 2017. 2014 09 first September 30, 2019. Further to ASU 2014 09 2015 14, 2016 08, 606, 2016 08 March 2016, 2016 12, 606, 2016 12 May 2016 2016 20, 606, 2016 20 December 2016. 2016 08 2016 12 2016 20 not one 2016 08, 2016 12 2016 20 2014 09. The Company does not 2019. 2014 09 not not In June 2018, 2018 07, 718, 2018 07 2018 07 718 2018 07 first September 30, 2020,

Note 3 - Earnings Per Share

Note 3 - Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]	3. Basic earnings per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if the Company’s granted but unvested restricted stock units were to vest, resulting in the issuance of common stock that would then share in the earnings of the Company. Presented below is basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, Year ended September 30, 2018 2017 201 6 Net income $ 12,661 6,891 11,471 Weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding 22,361,898 22,453,409 22,492,986 Effect of dilutive securities 51,140 10,266 14,166 Weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding including the effect of dilutive securities 22,413,038 22,463,675 22,507,152 Basic earnings per share $ 0.57 0.31 0.51 Diluted earnings per share $ 0.56 0.31 0.51 There were 207,805, 52,974 61,115 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, The Company did not September 30, 2018, 2017 2016. As of September 30, 2018, 50,000,000 22,510,279 22,373,382 10,000,000 none

Note 4 - Fair Value Measurement

Note 4 - Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	4 . Fair Value Measurements The Company records its financial assets and liabilities at fair value in accordance with the framework for measuring fair value. The framework establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between assumptions based on market data (observable inputs) and market participant’s assumptions (unobservable inputs). Non-financial assets, such as goodwill and long-lived assets, are accounted for at fair value on a non-recurring basis. These items are tested for impairment on the occurrence of a triggering event or in the case of goodwill, at least on an annual basis. During fiscal year 2018, $1.2 $0.7 $0.5 not September 30, 2017.

Note 5 - Property and Equipment

Note 5 - Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]	5 . Property and Equipment The Company had the following property and equipment balances as of September 30, 2018 2017, U seful lives As of September 30, (in years) 2018 2017 Construction in process n/a $ 15,879 5,286 Capitalized real estate leases for build-to-suit stores, including unamortized land of $617 and $617, respectively 40 35,700 29,548 Capitalized real estate leases 15 5,735 5,735 Land n/a 192 192 Buildings 40 19,262 19,259 Land improvements 5 - 24 1,016 1,159 Leasehold and building improvements 1 - 25 131,474 131,679 Fixtures and equipment 5 - 7 122,984 115,888 Computer hardware and software 3 - 5 21,181 19,108 353,423 327,854 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (164,655 ) (143,437 ) Property and equipment, net $ 188,768 184,417 Capitalized costs for computer software development were approximately $0.6 $0.2 September 30, 2018 2017, $0.5 $0.7 September 30, 2018 2017, $0.2 $0.5 $0.5 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, $0.5 September 30, 2018, 2017, 2016. Depreciation and amortization expense for the years ended September 30, 2018, 2017 2016 Year ended September 30, 2018 2017 201 6 Depreciation and amortization expense included in cost of goods sold and occupancy costs $ 768 1,063 868 Depreciation and amortization expense included in store expenses 27,174 27,022 23,428 Depreciation and amortization expense included in administrative expenses 1,488 1,426 1,237 Total depreciation and amortization expenses $ 29,430 29,511 25,533

Note 6 - Impairment of Long-liv

Note 6 - Impairment of Long-lived Assets and Store Closing Costs	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Asset Impairment Charges [Text Block]	6. of Long - Lived Assets and Store C losing C osts In determining whether long-lived assets are recoverable, the Company’s estimates of undiscounted future cash flows over the estimated life or lease term of a store is based upon experience, historical results of the store, an estimate of future store profitability and economic conditions. As the Company forecasts future undiscounted cash flows for the remaining useful life of the asset group, estimates are subject to variability as future results can be difficult to predict. If a long-lived asset is found to be non-recoverable, an impairment charge is recorded equal to the difference between the asset’s carrying value and fair value. The Company estimates the fair value of the asset using a valuation method such as discounted cash flow or a relative, market-based approach. In the fourth 2018, $0.5 September 30, 2018. September 30, 2018. Additionally, other store closing costs for the Tulsa-Central store related to one $0.1 September 30, 2018 ( 19 No 2017.

Note 7 - Goodwill and Other Int

Note 7 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	7 . Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and other intangible assets as of September 30, 2018 2017, Useful lives As of September 30, (in years) 2018 2017 Amortizable intangible assets: Covenants-not-to-compete 2 - 5 $ — 353 Other intangibles 0.5 - 3 138 109 Amortizable intangible assets 138 462 Less accumulated amortization (77 ) (394 ) Amortizable intangible assets, net 61 68 Trademark Indefinite 389 389 Total other intangibles, net 450 457 Goodwill Indefinite 5,198 5,198 Total goodwill and other intangibles, net $ 5,648 5,655 Amortization expense was less than $0.1 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016.

Note 8 - Accrued Expenses

Note 8 - Accrued Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block]	8 . Accrued Expenses The composition of accrued expenses as of September 30, 2018 2017, As of September 30, 2018 2017 Payroll and employee-related expenses $ 6,992 5,391 Accrued property, sales and use tax payable 7,043 6,399 Accrued marketing expenses 335 648 Deferred revenue related to gift card sales 1,453 906 Other 2,028 820 Total accrued expenses $ 17,851 14,164

Note 9 - Long-term Debt

Note 9 - Long-term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block]	9 . Long-Term Debt Credit Facility On January 28, 2016, VC2. $50.0 $5.0 January 31, 2021. The Credit Facility requires compliance with certain customary operational and financial covenants, including a leverage ratio. The Credit Facility also contains certain other customary limitations on the Company’s ability to incur additional debt, guarantee other obligations, grant liens on assets and make investments or acquisitions, among other limitations. Additionally, the Credit Facility prohibits the payment of cash dividends to the holding company from the operating company without the administrative agent’s consent, except when no no not $10.0 The Company had $13.2 $28.4 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017, September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017, $1.0 $35.8 $20.6 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017, Capital and Financing Lease Obligation s The Company had 20 17 September 30, 2018 2017, 2 10 No 10 Inter est The Company incurred gross interest expense of approximately $4.7 $4.3 $3.5 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, September 30, 2018, 2017 2016 $0.2 $0.5 $0.5 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016,

Note 10 - Lease Commitments

Note 10 - Lease Commitments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block]	1 0 . Lease Commitments Operating Leases The Company leases retail stores, a bulk food repackaging facility and distribution center and administrative offices under long-term operating leases through 2062. September 30, 2018 2017 $11.0 $10.5 September 30, 2018 2017 $8.9 $9.2 $0.4 September 30, 2018, $0.3 September 30, 2017 $0.1 September 30, 2016. The Company has five one one 13 November 1999, February 2027 $0.1 $0.3 Minimum rental commitments and sublease rental income under the terms of the Company’s operating leases are as follows, dollars in thousands: Fiscal Year Third p arties Related p arties Sublease r ental i ncome Total o perating l eases 2019 $ 40,847 1,329 (415 ) 41,761 2020 40,974 1,333 (379 ) 41,928 2021 39,764 1,310 (366 ) 40,708 2022 38,958 1,308 (372 ) 39,894 2023 38,356 1,308 (361 ) 39,303 Thereafter 289,728 3,979 (764 ) 292,943 Total payments $ 488,627 10,567 (2,657 ) 496,537 Total rent expense, including common area expenses and warehouse rent, for the years ended September 30, 2018, 2017, 2016 $48.8 $43.8 $34.6 $0.6 $1.4 $1.4 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, Capital and Financing Lease Obligations Capital and financing lease obligations as of September 30, 2018 2017, As of September 30, 2018 2017 Capital lease finance obligations, due in monthly installments through fiscal year 2033 $ 32,523 26,930 Capital lease obligations due in monthly installments through fiscal year 2041 4,763 4,999 Capital lease finance obligations for assets under construction, due in monthly installments through fiscal year 2033 2,350 1,499 Capital lease obligations for assets under construction, due in monthly installments through fiscal year 2034 1,506 — Total capital and financing lease obligations 41,142 33,428 Less current portion (736 ) (548 ) Total capital and financing lease obligations, net of current portion $ 40,406 32,880 Capital lease finance obligations From time to time, the Company enters into leases with developers for build-to-suit store locations. Upon lease execution, the Company analyzes its involvement during the construction period . not $32.5 $26.9 September 30, 2018 2017, 2033. not Capital lease obligations The Company had capital lease obligations totaling approximately $4.8 $5.0 September 30, 2018 2017, 2041. not Capital lease finance obligation s for assets under construction The Company had $2.4 $1.5 September 30, 2018 2017, No Capital lease obligation s for assets under construction The Company had $1.5 zero September 30, 2018 2017, No Future payments for capital lease finance obligations and capita l lease obligations Future payments under the terms of the leases for opened stores included in capital lease finance obligations and capital lease obligations as of September 30, 2018 Interest obligations Principal payment s on obligations Interest obligations P rincipal p ayments on obligations Total future payments on capital lease finance and capital lease obligations 2019 $ 3,503 417 481 261 4,662 2020 3,461 461 453 288 4,663 2021 3,412 542 423 319 4,696 2022 3,354 625 390 352 4,721 2023 3,286 750 353 398 4,787 Thereafter 15,380 6,504 1,768 3,144 26,796 Non-cash derecognition of capital lease finance obligations at end of lease term — 23,225 — — 23,225 Total future payments $ 32,396 32,524 3,868 4,762 73,550 Future payments under the terms of the lease for the store location at which construction was in progress as of September 30, 2018, first 2019, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligation s for assets under construction Principal payments on cap ital lease finance obligations for assets under construction Total future payments on capital lease finance o bligation s for assets under construction 2019 $ 186 20 206 2020 184 21 205 2021 182 23 205 2022 180 25 205 2023 178 27 205 Thereafter 1,514 810 2,324 Non-cash derecognition of capital lease finance obligations at end of lease term — 1,423 1,423 Total future payments $ 2,424 2,349 4,773 Interest expense on capital lease obligation s for assets under construction Principal payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction Total future payments on capital lease o bligation s for asset s under construction 2019 $ 138 36 174 2020 152 45 197 2021 147 49 196 2022 142 55 197 2023 136 61 197 Thereafter 813 1,260 2,073 Total future payments $ 1,528 1,506 3,034

Note 11 - Share-based Compensat

Note 11 - Share-based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	1 1 . S hare -Based Compensation The Company adopted the 2012 July 17, 2012. 1,090,151 186,179 September 30, 2018. not September 30, 2018, no one five not The shares of non-vested restricted stock units as of September 30, 2018 Shares Weighted average grant date fair value Non-vested as of September 30, 2016 92,586 $ 24.52 Granted 16,662 12.09 Forfeited (4,249 ) 27.28 Vested (34,653 ) 19.02 Non-vested as of September 30, 2017 70,346 21.56 Granted 396,949 8.88 Forfeited (15,626 ) 12.01 Vested (32,687 ) 17.97 Non-vested as of September 30, 2018 418,982 10.19 During the year ended September 30, 2018, 1,300 13 not Share-based compensation expense for restricted stock unit awards to certain employees who are not $0.5 $0.6 $0.7 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, one $0.1 September 30, 2018. no September 30, 2017 2016. Each independent member of the Board receives an annual grant of restricted stock units equal to $60,000 $0.2 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016. The Company recorded total share-based compensation expense before income taxes of approximately $0.8 $0.8 $0.9 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, not September 30, 2018, 2017 2016. As of September 30, 2018, $3.1 two

Note 12 - Stockholders' Equity

Note 12 - Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	1 2 . S tockholders ’ Equity Share Repurchases On May 4, 2017, two may $10.0 May 2, 2018, two May 4, 2020. 10b 18 1934, may 10b5 1 not may The following table summarizes share repurchase activity for the periods: Year ended September 30, 2018 2017 Total number of common shares acquired 101,573 30,000 Average price per common share acquired (including commissions) $ 5.72 8.71 Total cost of common shares acquired (in thousands) $ 581 262 During fiscal years 2018 2017, 26,899 25,447 $0.2 $0.3 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017, 136,897 62,223 $1.0 $0.7

Note 13 - Related Party Transac

Note 13 - Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]	1 3 . Related Party Transactions The Company has ongoing relationships with related parties as noted: Chalet Properties, LLC : five one 10 four $1.2 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016. Isely Family Land Trust LLC: one 11 $0.3 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016. FTVC LLC: one four $0.1 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016.

Note 14 - Income Taxes

Note 14 - Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	1 4 . Income Taxes The following are the components of the provision for income taxes as of September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, Year ended September 30, 2018 2017 201 6 Current federal income tax expense (benefit) $ 3,083 2,837 (853 ) Current state income tax expense (benefit) 721 336 (254 ) Total current income tax expense (benefit) 3,804 3,173 (1,107 ) Deferred federal income tax (benefit) expense (5,760 ) 206 6,103 Deferred state income tax (benefit) expense (212 ) 35 868 Total deferred income tax (benefit) expense (5,972 ) 241 6,971 Total (benefit from) provision for income taxes $ (2,168 ) 3,414 5,864 The differences between the United States federal statutory income tax rate and the Company’s effective tax rate are as follows: Year ended September 30, 2018 2017 201 6 Statutory tax rate 24.3 % 34.0 34.0 State income taxes, net of federal income tax expense 3.3 2.7 2.9 Remeasurement (41.3 ) — — Enhanced food deduction (1.8 ) (2.7 ) (1.6 ) Deferred tax liability adjustment (6.3 ) — — Other, net 1.1 (0.9 ) (1.4 ) Effective tax rate (20.7 )% 33.1 33.9 The Company’s effective tax rate decreased from 33.1% September 30, 2017 20.7 September 30, 2018 Deferred taxes have been classified on the consolidated balance sheets as follows, dollars in thousands: As of September 30, 2018 2017 Current assets $ — — Long-term liabilities (6,447 ) (12,419 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (6,447 ) (12,419 ) The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are as follows, dollars in thousands: As of September 30, 2018 2017 Deferred tax assets Capital and financing lease obligations $ 10,022 12,670 Goodwill 955 1,853 Leasehold incentives 2,180 3,484 Deferred rent 2,706 3,980 Trademarks 658 1,021 Accrued employee benefits 642 910 Deferred compensation 169 468 Other 339 439 Gross deferred tax assets 17,671 24,825 Deferred tax liabilities Property and equipment (21,489 ) (33,127 ) Leasehold improvements (2,407 ) (3,774 ) Subleases (214 ) (343 ) Other (8 ) — Gross deferred tax liabilities (24,118 ) (37,244 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (6,447 ) (12,419 ) The Company believes that it is more likely than not The Company utilized less than $0.1 September 30, 2018 2017. The Company did not September 30, 2018 2017. The Company files income tax returns with federal, state and local tax authorities. With limited exceptions, the Company is no 2015 no 2013

Note 15 - Defined Contribution

Note 15 - Defined Contribution Plan	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	1 5 . Defined Contribution Plan The Company has a defined contribution retirement plan (the Retirement Plan) covering substantially all employees who meet certain eligibility requirements as to age and length of service. The Retirement Plan incorporates the salary deferral provisions of Section 401 1986, may may 25% $2,500. September 30, 2018, $0.6 September 30, 2019. September 30, 2017, $0.1

Note 16 - Segment Reporting

Note 16 - Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	1 6 . Segment Reporting The Company has one Sales from the Company’s natural and organic retail stores are derived from sales of the following products which are presented as a percentage of sales for the years ended September 30, 2018, 2017 2016 As of September 30, 2018 2017 201 6 Grocery 68 % 67 67 Dietary supplements 21 22 22 Body care, pet care and other 11 11 11 100.0 % 100.0 100.0

Note 17 - Commitments and Conti

Note 17 - Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	1 7 . Commitments and Contingencies Self-Insurance The Company is self-insured for certain losses relating to employee medical and dental benefits and workers compensation, subject to a stop loss policy. The self-insurance liability related to claims under the Company’s health benefit plans is determined based on analysis of actual claims. The amounts related to these claims are included as a component of payroll and employee-related expenses in accrued expenses. Liabilities associated with the risks that are retained by the Company are estimated, in part, by considering historical claims experience, demographic factors and other actuarial assumptions. While the Company believes that its assumptions are appropriate, the estimated accrual for these liabilities could be significantly affected if future occurrences and claims materially differ from these assumptions and historical trends. Legal The Company is periodically involved in various legal proceedings that are incidental to the conduct of its business, including but not may not

Note 18 - Selected Quarterly Fi

Note 18 - Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	1 8 . Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) The summarized unaudited quarterly financial data presented below reflect all adjustments, which in the opinion of management are of a normal and recurring nature, necessary to present fairly the results of operations for the periods presented. Summarized unaudited quarterly financial data for each fiscal year is as follows, dollars in thousands, except per share data: Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2018 Three months ended December 31, 2017 March 31, 2018 June 30, 2018 September 30, 2018 Net sales $ 202,480 215,911 213,130 217,521 Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs 149,321 157,630 156,299 160,219 Gross profit 53,159 58,281 56,831 57,302 Store expenses 45,166 46,480 47,000 48,095 Administrative expenses 5,257 5,458 5,630 5,161 Pre-opening and relocation expenses 543 697 443 590 Operating income 2,193 5,646 3,758 3,456 Interest expense, net (1,089 ) (1,122 ) (1,170 ) (1,179 ) Income before income taxes 1,104 4,524 2,588 2,277 Benefit from (provision for) income taxes 4,077 (1,120 ) (597 ) (192 ) Net income $ 5,181 3,404 1,991 2,085 Basic earnings per share $ 0.23 0.15 0.09 0.10 Diluted earnings per share 0.23 0.15 0.09 0.09 Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2017 Three months ended December 31, 201 6 March 31, 2017 June 30, 2017 September 30, 2017 Net sales $ 183,577 192,203 194,709 198,541 Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs 131,424 138,045 141,928 145,297 Gross profit 52,153 54,158 52,781 53,244 Store expenses 41,843 42,400 45,028 45,079 Administrative expenses 4,883 4,959 5,105 5,142 Pre-opening and relocation expenses 1,261 1,284 970 284 Operating income 4,166 5,515 1,678 2,739 Interest expense, net (983 ) (879 ) (876 ) (1,055 ) Income before income taxes 3,183 4,636 802 1,684 Provision for income taxes (1,122 ) (1,640 ) (204 ) (448 ) Net income $ 2,061 2,996 598 1,236 Basic earnings per share $ 0.09 0.13 0.03 0.06 Diluted earnings per share 0.09 0.13 0.03 0.06

Note 19 - Subsequent Events

Note 19 - Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes to Financial Statements
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	19 . S ubsequent Event s On November 9, 2018, one two 6

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include all the accounts of the holding company’s wholly owned subsidiaries, Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets, Inc. (the operating company) and Vitamin Cottage Two Ltd. Liability Company ( VC2
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management reviews its estimates on an ongoing basis, including those related to valuation of inventories, useful lives of long-lived assets for depreciation and amortization, impairment of finite-lived intangible, long-lived assets, and goodwill, lease assumptions, allowances for self-insurance reserves, deferred tax assets and liabilities and litigation based on currently available information. Changes in facts and circumstances may
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Segment Information The Company has one
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include currency on hand, demand deposits with banks, money market funds and credit and debit card transactions which typically settle within three 90
Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Accounts Receivable Accounts receivable consists primarily of receivables from vendors for certain promotional programs, magazine advertising and other miscellaneous receivables and are presented net of any allowances for doubtful accounts. Vendor receivable balances are generally presented on a gross basis separate from any related payable due. Allowance for doubtful accounts is calculated based on historical experience and application of the specific identification method. Allowance for doubtful accounts totaled approximately $0.1 $0.2 September 30, 2018 2017,
Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Concentration of Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist primarily of investments in cash and cash equivalents. The Company’s cash and cash equivalent account balances, which are held in major financial institutions, exceeded the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s federally insured limits by approximately $8.8 September 30, 2018.
Vendor Concentration [Policy Text Block]	Vendor Concentration For the years ended September 30, 2018, 2017 2016, 64%, 62% 59%,
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Merchandise Inventory Merchandise inventory consists of goods held for sale. The cost of inventory includes certain costs associated with the preparation of inventory for sale, including inventory overhead costs. Merchandise inventory is carried at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined using the weighted average cost method.
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Long-Lived Assets Depreciable long-lived assets primarily consist of leasehold and building improvements, which are stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the useful life of the relevant asset. For land improvements and leasehold and building improvements, depreciation is recorded over the shorter of the assets’ useful lives or the lease terms. Maintenance, repairs and renewals that neither add to the value of the property nor appreciably prolong its life are charged to expense as incurred. Gains and losses on disposition of property and equipment are included in store expenses in the year of disposition, and primarily relate to store relocations. The Company capitalizes interest, if applicable, as part of the historical costs of buildings and leasehold and building improvements. The Company capitalizes certain costs incurred with developing or obtaining internal-use software. Capitalized software costs are included in property and equipment in the consolidated balance sheets and are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the software. Software costs that do not
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Including Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Impairment of Finite-Lived Intangible and Long-Lived Assets Long-lived assets, such as property and equipment and purchased intangible assets subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not first not $0.5 2018, no 2017 2016.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Goodwill and Intangible Assets Intangible assets primarily consist of goodwill and trademarks. Goodwill and the Vitamin Cottage not The Company’s annual impairment testing of goodwill is performed as of July 1. first not not not two not not two first two September 30, 2018, no
Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Deferred Financing Costs Certain costs incurred with borrowings or establishment of credit facilities are deferred. These costs are amortized over the life of the credit facility using the straight-line method.
Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block]	Leases The Company leases retail stores, a bulk food repackaging facility and distribution center and administrative offices under long-term operating or capital or financing leases. These leases include scheduled increases in minimum rents and renewal provisions at the option of the Company. The lease term for accounting purposes commences with the date the Company takes possession of the space and ends on the later of the primary lease term or the expiration of any renewal periods that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the inception of the lease. Operating L eases The Company accounts for operating leases with rent holidays and escalating payment terms by recognizing the associated expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term, and the difference between the average rental amount charged to expense and amounts payable under the leases are included in deferred rent. For certain leases, the Company has also received cash from landlords to compensate for costs incurred by the Company in making the store locations ready for operation (leasehold incentives). Leasehold incentives received from a landlord are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis as a reduction to rent expense over the lease term. Capital F inancing L eases From time to time, the Company enters into leases with developers for build-to-suit store locations. Upon lease execution, the Company analyzes its involvement during the construction period. may not not Capital L eases Occasionally, the Company enters into leases that are deemed to be capital leases. For these leases, the Company capitalizes the lower of the present value of the minimum lease payments or the fair value of the leased asset at inception and records a corresponding capital lease obligation. The Company does not
Self Insurance Reserve [Policy Text Block]	Self-Insurance The Company is self-insured for certain losses relating to employee medical and dental benefits and workers compensation. Stop-loss coverage has been purchased to limit exposure to any significant level of claims. Self-insured losses are accrued based upon the Company’s estimates of the aggregate claims incurred but not
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Revenue Recognition Revenue is recognized at the point of sale, net of in-house coupons, discounts and returns. Sales taxes are not
Cost of Goods Sold and Occupancy Costs [Policy Text Block]	Cost of Goods Sold and Occupancy Costs Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs includes the cost of inventory sold during the period net of discounts and allowances, as well as, distribution, shipping and handling costs, store occupancy costs and costs of the bulk food repackaging facility and distribution center. The amount shown is net of various rebates from third not
Store Expenses [Policy Text Block]	Store Expenses Store expenses consist of store-level expenses such as salaries, benefits and share-based compensation, supplies, utilities, depreciation, gain or loss on disposal of assets, long-lived asset impairment charges, store closing costs and other related expenses associated with operations support. Store expenses also include purchasing support services and advertising and marketing costs.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Administrative Expenses Administrative expenses consist of salaries, benefits and share-based compensation, occupancy costs, depreciation, office supplies, hardware and software expenses, professional services expenses and other general and administrative expenses.
Pre-Opening Costs and Relocation Expenses [Policy Text Block]	Pre-Opening and Relocation Expenses Costs associated with the opening of new stores or relocating existing stores are expensed as incurred.
Advertising Cost, Policy, Expensed Advertising Cost [Policy Text Block]	Advertising and Marketing Advertising and marketing costs are expensed as incurred and are included in store expenses and pre-opening and relocation expenses in the consolidated statements of income. Total advertising and marketing expenses for the years ended September 30, 2018, 2017 2016 $8.2 $10.7 $10.8 $4.1 $3.2 $3.2 September 30, 2018, 2017 2016,
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]	S hare - B ased C ompensation The Company adopted the 2012 July 25, 2012. The excess tax benefits for recognized compensation costs are reported as a credit to income tax expense and as operating cash outflows when such excess tax benefits are realized by a reduction to current taxes payable.
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method. This method requires recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for expected future tax consequences of temporary differences that currently exist between the tax basis and financial reporting basis of the Company’s assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in the respective jurisdictions in which the Company operates. The Company considers the need to establish valuation allowances to reduce deferred income tax assets to the amounts the Company believes are more likely than not The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not 50% Any interest or penalties incurred related to income taxes are expensed as incurred and treated as permanent differences for tax purposes. U.S. Tax Reform On December 22, 2017, January 1, 2018. 24.3% September 30, 2018 21.0% $4.3 September 30, 2018. The changes included in the Tax Reform Act are broad and complex. The final transition impacts of the Tax Reform Act may
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Recent Accounting Pronouncements In July 2015, 2015 11, 330, 2015 11 2015 11, first 2015 11 2015 11 December 15, 2016 2015 11 October 1, 2017. not September 30, 2018. In March 2016, 2016 09, 718, 2016 09 2016 09 2016 09 2016 09 October 1, 2017.The not September 30, 2018. In addition, under ASU 2016 09, September 30, 2018, no The Company has elected to continue to estimate the number of share-based awards expected to vest, as permitted by ASU 2016 09, ASU 2016 09 September 30, 2018. In January 2017, 2017 04, 350, 2017 04 2017 04 first two not January 1, 2017, first September 30, 2020. In February 2016, 2016 02, 842, 2016 02 No. 2016 02 12 2016 02 2016 02 first September 30, 2020, 2016 02 2018 11, 842, July 2018. The adoption of ASU 2016 02 2016 02 In January 2018, 2018 01, 842, 842” 2018 01 2018 01 not 842, not 840. 2016 02. In May 2014, 2014 09, 606, 2014 09 2014 09 2014 09’s 2014 09 one In July 2015, 2015 14, 2014 09, one December 15, 2017. 2014 09 first September 30, 2019. Further to ASU 2014 09 2015 14, 2016 08, 606, 2016 08 March 2016, 2016 12, 606, 2016 12 May 2016 2016 20, 606, 2016 20 December 2016. 2016 08 2016 12 2016 20 not one 2016 08, 2016 12 2016 20 2014 09. The Company does not 2019. 2014 09 not not In June 2018, 2018 07, 718, 2018 07 2018 07 718 2018 07 first September 30, 2020,

Note 3 - Earnings Per Share (Ta

Note 3 - Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	Year ended September 30, 2018 2017 201 6 Net income $ 12,661 6,891 11,471 Weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding 22,361,898 22,453,409 22,492,986 Effect of dilutive securities 51,140 10,266 14,166 Weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding including the effect of dilutive securities 22,413,038 22,463,675 22,507,152 Basic earnings per share $ 0.57 0.31 0.51 Diluted earnings per share $ 0.56 0.31 0.51

Note 5 - Property and Equipme_2

Note 5 - Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes Tables
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]	U seful lives As of September 30, (in years) 2018 2017 Construction in process n/a $ 15,879 5,286 Capitalized real estate leases for build-to-suit stores, including unamortized land of $617 and $617, respectively 40 35,700 29,548 Capitalized real estate leases 15 5,735 5,735 Land n/a 192 192 Buildings 40 19,262 19,259 Land improvements 5 - 24 1,016 1,159 Leasehold and building improvements 1 - 25 131,474 131,679 Fixtures and equipment 5 - 7 122,984 115,888 Computer hardware and software 3 - 5 21,181 19,108 353,423 327,854 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (164,655 ) (143,437 ) Property and equipment, net $ 188,768 184,417
Depreciation and Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]	Year ended September 30, 2018 2017 201 6 Depreciation and amortization expense included in cost of goods sold and occupancy costs $ 768 1,063 868 Depreciation and amortization expense included in store expenses 27,174 27,022 23,428 Depreciation and amortization expense included in administrative expenses 1,488 1,426 1,237 Total depreciation and amortization expenses $ 29,430 29,511 25,533

Note 7 - Goodwill and Other I_2

Note 7 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table Text Block]	Useful lives As of September 30, (in years) 2018 2017 Amortizable intangible assets: Covenants-not-to-compete 2 - 5 $ — 353 Other intangibles 0.5 - 3 138 109 Amortizable intangible assets 138 462 Less accumulated amortization (77 ) (394 ) Amortizable intangible assets, net 61 68 Trademark Indefinite 389 389 Total other intangibles, net 450 457 Goodwill Indefinite 5,198 5,198 Total goodwill and other intangibles, net $ 5,648 5,655

Note 8 - Accrued Expenses (Tabl

Note 8 - Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block]	As of September 30, 2018 2017 Payroll and employee-related expenses $ 6,992 5,391 Accrued property, sales and use tax payable 7,043 6,399 Accrued marketing expenses 335 648 Deferred revenue related to gift card sales 1,453 906 Other 2,028 820 Total accrued expenses $ 17,851 14,164

Note 10 - Lease Commitments (Ta

Note 10 - Lease Commitments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]	Fiscal Year Third p arties Related p arties Sublease r ental i ncome Total o perating l eases 2019 $ 40,847 1,329 (415 ) 41,761 2020 40,974 1,333 (379 ) 41,928 2021 39,764 1,310 (366 ) 40,708 2022 38,958 1,308 (372 ) 39,894 2023 38,356 1,308 (361 ) 39,303 Thereafter 289,728 3,979 (764 ) 292,943 Total payments $ 488,627 10,567 (2,657 ) 496,537
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	As of September 30, 2018 2017 Capital lease finance obligations, due in monthly installments through fiscal year 2033 $ 32,523 26,930 Capital lease obligations due in monthly installments through fiscal year 2041 4,763 4,999 Capital lease finance obligations for assets under construction, due in monthly installments through fiscal year 2033 2,350 1,499 Capital lease obligations for assets under construction, due in monthly installments through fiscal year 2034 1,506 — Total capital and financing lease obligations 41,142 33,428 Less current portion (736 ) (548 ) Total capital and financing lease obligations, net of current portion $ 40,406 32,880
Asset under Construction, Capital Lease Finance Obligations [Member]
Notes Tables
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital and Finance Lease Obligations for Assets Under Construction [Table Text Block]	Interest expense on capital lease finance obligation s for assets under construction Principal payments on cap ital lease finance obligations for assets under construction Total future payments on capital lease finance o bligation s for assets under construction 2019 $ 186 20 206 2020 184 21 205 2021 182 23 205 2022 180 25 205 2023 178 27 205 Thereafter 1,514 810 2,324 Non-cash derecognition of capital lease finance obligations at end of lease term — 1,423 1,423 Total future payments $ 2,424 2,349 4,773 Interest expense on capital lease obligation s for assets under construction Principal payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction Total future payments on capital lease o bligation s for asset s under construction 2019 $ 138 36 174 2020 152 45 197 2021 147 49 196 2022 142 55 197 2023 136 61 197 Thereafter 813 1,260 2,073 Total future payments $ 1,528 1,506 3,034
Asset Held under Real Estate Leases for Build-to-suit Stores, Capital and Financing Lease Obligations [Member]
Notes Tables
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital and Finance Lease Obligations for Assets Under Construction [Table Text Block]	Interest obligations Principal payment s on obligations Interest obligations P rincipal p ayments on obligations Total future payments on capital lease finance and capital lease obligations 2019 $ 3,503 417 481 261 4,662 2020 3,461 461 453 288 4,663 2021 3,412 542 423 319 4,696 2022 3,354 625 390 352 4,721 2023 3,286 750 353 398 4,787 Thereafter 15,380 6,504 1,768 3,144 26,796 Non-cash derecognition of capital lease finance obligations at end of lease term — 23,225 — — 23,225 Total future payments $ 32,396 32,524 3,868 4,762 73,550

Note 11 - Share-based Compens_2

Note 11 - Share-based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]	Shares Weighted average grant date fair value Non-vested as of September 30, 2016 92,586 $ 24.52 Granted 16,662 12.09 Forfeited (4,249 ) 27.28 Vested (34,653 ) 19.02 Non-vested as of September 30, 2017 70,346 21.56 Granted 396,949 8.88 Forfeited (15,626 ) 12.01 Vested (32,687 ) 17.97 Non-vested as of September 30, 2018 418,982 10.19

Note 12 - Stockholders' Equity

Note 12 - Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes Tables
Class of Treasury Stock [Table Text Block]	Year ended September 30, 2018 2017 Total number of common shares acquired 101,573 30,000 Average price per common share acquired (including commissions) $ 5.72 8.71 Total cost of common shares acquired (in thousands) $ 581 262

Note 14 - Income Taxes (Tables)

Note 14 - Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	Year ended September 30, 2018 2017 201 6 Current federal income tax expense (benefit) $ 3,083 2,837 (853 ) Current state income tax expense (benefit) 721 336 (254 ) Total current income tax expense (benefit) 3,804 3,173 (1,107 ) Deferred federal income tax (benefit) expense (5,760 ) 206 6,103 Deferred state income tax (benefit) expense (212 ) 35 868 Total deferred income tax (benefit) expense (5,972 ) 241 6,971 Total (benefit from) provision for income taxes $ (2,168 ) 3,414 5,864
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	Year ended September 30, 2018 2017 201 6 Statutory tax rate 24.3 % 34.0 34.0 State income taxes, net of federal income tax expense 3.3 2.7 2.9 Remeasurement (41.3 ) — — Enhanced food deduction (1.8 ) (2.7 ) (1.6 ) Deferred tax liability adjustment (6.3 ) — — Other, net 1.1 (0.9 ) (1.4 ) Effective tax rate (20.7 )% 33.1 33.9
Schedule of Classification of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	As of September 30, 2018 2017 Current assets $ — — Long-term liabilities (6,447 ) (12,419 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (6,447 ) (12,419 )
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	As of September 30, 2018 2017 Deferred tax assets Capital and financing lease obligations $ 10,022 12,670 Goodwill 955 1,853 Leasehold incentives 2,180 3,484 Deferred rent 2,706 3,980 Trademarks 658 1,021 Accrued employee benefits 642 910 Deferred compensation 169 468 Other 339 439 Gross deferred tax assets 17,671 24,825 Deferred tax liabilities Property and equipment (21,489 ) (33,127 ) Leasehold improvements (2,407 ) (3,774 ) Subleases (214 ) (343 ) Other (8 ) — Gross deferred tax liabilities (24,118 ) (37,244 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (6,447 ) (12,419 )

Note 16 - Segment Reporting (Ta

Note 16 - Segment Reporting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes Tables
Schedule of Product Information [Table Text Block]	As of September 30, 2018 2017 201 6 Grocery 68 % 67 67 Dietary supplements 21 22 22 Body care, pet care and other 11 11 11 100.0 % 100.0 100.0

Note 18 - Selected Quarterly _2

Note 18 - Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Notes Tables
Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2018 Three months ended December 31, 2017 March 31, 2018 June 30, 2018 September 30, 2018 Net sales $ 202,480 215,911 213,130 217,521 Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs 149,321 157,630 156,299 160,219 Gross profit 53,159 58,281 56,831 57,302 Store expenses 45,166 46,480 47,000 48,095 Administrative expenses 5,257 5,458 5,630 5,161 Pre-opening and relocation expenses 543 697 443 590 Operating income 2,193 5,646 3,758 3,456 Interest expense, net (1,089 ) (1,122 ) (1,170 ) (1,179 ) Income before income taxes 1,104 4,524 2,588 2,277 Benefit from (provision for) income taxes 4,077 (1,120 ) (597 ) (192 ) Net income $ 5,181 3,404 1,991 2,085 Basic earnings per share $ 0.23 0.15 0.09 0.10 Diluted earnings per share 0.23 0.15 0.09 0.09 Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2017 Three months ended December 31, 201 6 March 31, 2017 June 30, 2017 September 30, 2017 Net sales $ 183,577 192,203 194,709 198,541 Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs 131,424 138,045 141,928 145,297 Gross profit 52,153 54,158 52,781 53,244 Store expenses 41,843 42,400 45,028 45,079 Administrative expenses 4,883 4,959 5,105 5,142 Pre-opening and relocation expenses 1,261 1,284 970 284 Operating income 4,166 5,515 1,678 2,739 Interest expense, net (983 ) (879 ) (876 ) (1,055 ) Income before income taxes 3,183 4,636 802 1,684 Provision for income taxes (1,122 ) (1,640 ) (204 ) (448 ) Net income $ 2,061 2,996 598 1,236 Basic earnings per share $ 0.09 0.13 0.03 0.06 Diluted earnings per share 0.09 0.13 0.03 0.06

Note 1 - Organization (Details

Note 1 - Organization (Details Textual)	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Number of Stores	148	140	126
COLORADO
Number of Stores	37
TEXAS
Number of Stores	24
ARIZONA
Number of Stores	12
KANSAS
Number of Stores	8
OKLAHOMA
Number of Stores	7
IOWA
Number of Stores	5
IDAHO
Number of Stores	4
WASHINGTON
Number of Stores	3
NORTH DAKOTA
Number of Stores	2
MINNESOTA
Number of Stores	1
OREGON
Number of Stores	12
UTAH
Number of Stores	8
MISSOURI
Number of Stores	5
NEW MEXICO
Number of Stores	5
MONTANA
Number of Stores	4
ARKANSAS
Number of Stores	3
NEBRASKA
Number of Stores	3
NEVADA
Number of Stores	3
WYOMING
Number of Stores	2

Note 2 - Basis of Presentatio_2

Note 2 - Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textual) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)
Number of Reportable Segments									1		1
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current, Ending Balance	$ 100				$ 200				$ 100		$ 100	$ 200
Cash, Uninsured Amount	8,800								$ 8,800		8,800
Asset Impairment Charges, Total											585	0	$ 0
Goodwill, Impairment Loss											0
Marketing and Advertising Expense, Total											8,200	10,700	10,800
Revenues, Total	$ 217,521	$ 213,130	$ 215,911	$ 202,480	$ 198,541	$ 194,709	$ 192,203	$ 183,577			$ 849,042	$ 769,030	$ 705,499
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent											24.30%	34.00%	34.00%
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Adjustment of Deferred Tax (Asset) Liability											$ (4,300)
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent										21.00%
Vendor Reimbursements [Member]
Revenues, Total											$ 4,100	$ 3,200	$ 3,200
Supplier Concentration Risk [Member] | Cost of Goods, Product Line [Member]
Concentration Risk, Percentage											64.00%	62.00%	59.00%

Note 3 - Earnings Per Share (De

Note 3 - Earnings Per Share (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Dividends, Total	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued, Total	22,510,279	22,510,279
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, Ending Balance	22,373,382	22,448,056
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	10,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding, Ending Balance	0
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued, Total	0
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	207,805	52,974	61,115

Note 3 - Earnings Per Share - B

Note 3 - Earnings Per Share - Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Net income	$ 2,085	$ 1,991	$ 3,404	$ 5,181	$ 1,236	$ 598	$ 2,996	$ 2,061	$ 12,661	$ 6,891	$ 11,471
Weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding (in shares)									22,361,898	22,453,409	22,492,986
Effect of dilutive securities (in shares)									51,140	10,266	14,166
Weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding including the effect of dilutive securities (in shares)									22,413,038	22,463,675	22,507,152
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.10	$ 0.09	$ 0.15	$ 0.23	$ 0.06	$ 0.03	$ 0.13	$ 0.09	$ 0.57	$ 0.31	$ 0.51
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.09	$ 0.09	$ 0.15	$ 0.23	$ 0.06	$ 0.03	$ 0.13	$ 0.09	$ 0.56	$ 0.31	$ 0.51

Note 4 - Fair Value Measureme_2

Note 4 - Fair Value Measurements (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Long-Lived Assets	$ 1,200
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	700
Asset Impairment Charges, Total	$ 585	$ 0	$ 0

Note 5 - Property and Equipme_3

Note 5 - Property and Equipment (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Interest Paid, Capitalized, Investing Activities	$ 187	$ 482	$ 538
Software Development [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	600	200
Leasehold and Building Improvements and Fixtures and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	500	700
Capital and Financing Lease Obligations [Member]
Interest Paid, Capitalized, Investing Activities	200	500	500
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions, Capitalized Internal Staff Compensation [Member]
Depreciation, Total	$ 500	$ 500	$ 500

Note 5 - Property and Equipme_4

Note 5 - Property and Equipment - Schedule of Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 353,423	$ 327,854
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(164,655)	(143,437)
Property and equipment, net	188,768	184,417
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	15,879	5,286
Assets Held Under Real Estate Leases for Build to Suit Stores [Member]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 35,700	29,548
Useful life (Year)	40 years
Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 5,735	5,735
Useful life (Year)	15 years
Land [Member]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 192	192
Building [Member]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 19,262	19,259
Useful life (Year)	40 years
Land Improvements [Member]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 1,016	1,159
Land Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Useful life (Year)	5 years
Land Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Useful life (Year)	24 years
Leasehold and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 131,474	131,679
Leasehold and Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Useful life (Year)	1 year
Leasehold and Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Useful life (Year)	25 years
Furniture and Fixtures [Member]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 122,984	115,888
Furniture and Fixtures [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Useful life (Year)	5 years
Furniture and Fixtures [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Useful life (Year)	7 years
Computer Hardware and Software [Member]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 21,181	$ 19,108
Computer Hardware and Software [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Useful life (Year)	3 years
Computer Hardware and Software [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Useful life (Year)	5 years

Note 5 - Property and Equipme_5

Note 5 - Property and Equipment - Schedule of Property and Equipment (Details) (Parentheticals) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 353,423	$ 327,854
Unamortized Land [Member]
Property, plant, and equipment, gross	$ 617	$ 617

Note 5 - Property and Equipme_6

Note 5 - Property and Equipment - Depreciation and Amortization Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Depreciation and amortization	$ 29,430	$ 29,511	$ 25,533
Cost of Sales [Member]
Depreciation and amortization	768	1,063	868
Stores [Member]
Depreciation and amortization	27,174	27,022	23,428
General and Administrative Expense [Member]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 1,488	$ 1,426	$ 1,237

Note 6 - Impairment of Long-l_2

Note 6 - Impairment of Long-lived Assets and Store Closing Costs (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Asset Impairment Charges, Total	$ 585	$ 0	$ 0
Severance Costs	$ 100	$ 0

Note 7 - Goodwill and Other I_3

Note 7 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Maximum [Member]
Amortization of Intangible Assets, Total	$ 0.1	$ 0.1	$ 0.1

Note 7 - Goodwill and Other I_4

Note 7 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Summary of Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Amortizable intangible assets:
Amortizable intangible assets	$ 138	$ 462
Less accumulated amortization	(77)	(394)
Amortizable intangible assets, net	61	68
Trademark	389	389
Total other intangibles, net	450	457
Goodwill	5,198	5,198
Total goodwill and other intangibles, net	5,648	5,655
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Amortizable intangible assets:
Amortizable intangible assets		353
Noncompete Agreements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Amortizable intangible assets:
Intangible assets useful life (Year)	2 years
Noncompete Agreements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Amortizable intangible assets:
Intangible assets useful life (Year)	5 years
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Amortizable intangible assets:
Amortizable intangible assets	$ 138	$ 109
Other Intangible Assets [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Amortizable intangible assets:
Intangible assets useful life (Year)	182 days
Other Intangible Assets [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Amortizable intangible assets:
Intangible assets useful life (Year)	3 years

Note 8 - Accrued Expenses - Com

Note 8 - Accrued Expenses - Composition of Accrued Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Payroll and employee-related expenses	$ 6,992	$ 5,391
Accrued property, sales and use tax payable	7,043	6,399
Accrued marketing expenses	335	648
Deferred revenue related to gift card sales	1,453	906
Other	2,028	820
Total accrued expenses	$ 17,851	$ 14,164

Note 9 - Long-term Debt (Detail

Note 9 - Long-term Debt (Details Textual) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)
Capital and Financing Lease Obligations Number of Leases	20	17
Interest Expense, Debt, Excluding Amortization	$ 4.7	$ 4.3	$ 3.5
Interest Costs Capitalized	0.2	0.5	$ 0.5
Letter of Credit [Member]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	1	1
The New Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	50
Line of Credit Facility, Dividend Restrictions, Maximum Amount	10
Long-term Line of Credit, Total	13.2	28.4
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	35.8	$ 20.6
The New Credit Facility [Member] | Standby Letters of Credit [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 5

Note 10 - Lease Commitments (De

Note 10 - Lease Commitments (Details Textual) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)
Deferred Rent Credit, Noncurrent	$ 11,038	$ 10,465
Incentive from Lessor	8,895	9,160
Operating Leases, Income Statement, Sublease Revenue	400	300	$ 100
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net, Total	48,800	43,800	34,600
Pre-Opening Costs and Relocation Expenses for Stores Not Yet Opened Rent Expense	600	1,400	$ 1,400
Capital Lease Finance Obligations	32,500	26,900
Capital Lease Obligations, Total	4,800	5,000
Build to Suit Lease in Process [Member]
Construction in Progress, Gross	2,400	1,500
Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member]
Construction in Progress, Gross	$ 1,500	$ 0
Chalet [Member]
Number of Properties Leased	5
Isely Family Land Trust LLC [Member]
Number of Properties Leased	1
FTVC, LLC [Member]
Number of Properties Leased	1
Related Parties [Member]
Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due Per Lease Agreement Low End of Range	$ 100
Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due Per Lease Agreement High End of Range	$ 300

Note 10 - Lease Commitments - F

Note 10 - Lease Commitments - Future Minimum Annual Payments under Operating Leases (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Sublease rental income, 2019	$ (415)
Total operating leases, 2019	41,761
Sublease rental income, 2020	(379)
Total operating leases, 2020	41,928
Sublease rental income, 2021	(366)
Total operating leases, 2021	40,708
Sublease rental income, 2022	(372)
Total operating leases, 2022	39,894
Sublease rental income, 2023	(361)
Total operating leases, 2023	39,303
Sublease rental income, thereafter	(764)
Total operating leases, thereafter	292,943
Sublease rental income, total payments	(2,657)
Total operating leases, total payments	496,537
Related Parties [Member]
2,019	1,329
2,020	1,333
2,021	1,310
2,022	1,308
2,023	1,308
Thereafter	3,979
Total payments	10,567
Third Parties [Member]
2,019	40,847
2,020	40,974
2,021	39,764
2,022	38,958
2,023	38,356
Thereafter	289,728
Total payments	$ 488,627

Note 10 - Lease Commitments - C

Note 10 - Lease Commitments - Capital and Financing Lease Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Capital lease finance obligations	$ 4,800	$ 5,000
Total capital and financing lease obligations	41,142	33,428
Less current portion	(736)	(548)
Total capital and financing lease obligations, net of current portion	40,406	32,880
Due in Monthly Installments Through Fiscal Year 2033 [Member]
Capital lease finance obligations	32,523	26,930
Asset not under Construction, Due in Monthly Installments Through Fiscal Year 2041 [Member]
Capital lease finance obligations	4,763	4,999
Asset under Construction Due in Monthly Installments Through Fiscal Year 2033 [Member]
Capital lease finance obligations	2,350	1,499
Asset under Construction Due in Monthly Installments Through Fiscal Year 2034 [Member]
Capital lease finance obligations	$ 1,506

Note 10 - Lease Commitments - S

Note 10 - Lease Commitments - Schedule of Future Payments Under the Terms of the Leases (Details) (Assets Held Under Real Estate Leases for Build to Suit Stores (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Asset Held under Real Estate Leases for Build-to-suit Stores, Capital Lease Finance Obligations [Member]
2019, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	$ 3,503
2019, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	417
2020, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	3,461
2020, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	461
2021, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	3,412
2021, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	542
2022, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	3,354
2022, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	625
2023, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	3,286
2023, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	750
2023, Interest expense on capital lease obligations	353
2023, Principal payments on capital lease obligations	398
2023, Future payments on capital lease finance and capital lease obligations	4,787
Thereafter, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	15,380
Thereafter, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	6,504
Non-cash derecognition of capital lease finance obligations at end of lease term	23,225
Non-cash derecognition of capital lease finance obligations at end of lease term	23,225
Total future payments, interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	32,396
Total future payments, future payments on capital lease finance and capital lease obligations	73,550
Asset Held under Real Estate Leases for Build-to-suit Stores, Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
2019, Interest expense on capital lease obligations	481
2019, Principal payments on capital lease obligations	261
2020, Interest expense on capital lease obligations	453
2020, Principal payments on capital lease obligations	288
2021, Interest expense on capital lease obligations	423
2021, Principal payments on capital lease obligations	319
2022, Interest expense on capital lease obligations	390
2022, Principal payments on capital lease obligations	352
Thereafter, Interest expense on capital lease obligations	1,768
Thereafter, Principal payments on capital lease obligations	3,144
Total future payments, principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	32,524
Total future payments, interest expense on capital lease obligations	3,868
Asset Held under Real Estate Leases for Build-to-suit Stores, Capital and Financing Lease Obligations [Member]
2019, Future payments on capital lease finance and capital lease obligations	4,662
2020, Future payments on capital lease finance and capital lease obligations	4,663
2021, Future payments on capital lease finance and capital lease obligations	4,696
2022, Future payments on capital lease finance and capital lease obligations	4,721
Thereafter, Future payments on capital lease finance and capital lease obligations	26,796
Total future payments, principal payments on capital lease obligations	$ 4,762

Note 10 - Lease Commitments -_2

Note 10 - Lease Commitments - Future Minimum Lease Payments for Stores Under Construction (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Asset under Construction, Capital Lease Finance Obligations [Member]
2019, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	$ 186
2019, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	20
2019, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	206
2020, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	184
2020, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	21
2020, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	205
2021, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	182
2021, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	23
2021, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	205
2022, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	180
2022, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	25
2022, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	205
2023, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	178
2023, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	27
2023, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	205
Thereafter, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	1,514
Thereafter, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	810
Thereafter, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	2,324
Non-cash derecognition of capital lease finance obligations at end of lease term	1,423
Total future payments, interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	2,424
Total future payments, principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	2,349
Total future payments of capital lease obligations for assets under construction	4,773
Asset under Construction, Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
2019, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	138
2019, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	36
2019, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	174
2020, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	152
2020, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	45
2020, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	197
2021, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	147
2021, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	49
2021, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	196
2022, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	142
2022, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	55
2022, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	197
2023, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	136
2023, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	61
2023, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	197
Thereafter, Interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	813
Thereafter, Principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	1,260
Thereafter, Total future payments on capital lease obligations for assets under construction	2,073
Total future payments, interest expense on capital lease finance obligations	1,528
Total future payments, principle payments on capital lease finance obligations	1,506
Total future payments of capital lease obligations for assets under construction	$ 3,034

Note 11 - Share-based Compens_3

Note 11 - Share-based Compensation (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Jul. 17, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized				1,090,151
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant	186,179
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	1,300
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Total	$ 800,000	$ 800,000	$ 900,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense	0	0	0
Certain Employees [Member]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Total	500,000	600,000	700,000
Executive Officer [Member]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Total	100,000
Board [Member]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Total	200,000	$ 200,000	$ 200,000
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Share-based Awards Other than Options	$ 3,100,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	2 years
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Board [Member]
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award Equivalent Value of Shares Authorized to Grant	$ 60,000
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	1 year
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	5 years

Note 11 - Share-based Compens_4

Note 11 - Share-based Compensation - Changes in Non-vested RSUs Outstanding (Details) - Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Non-vested balance (in shares)	70,346	92,586
Non-vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)	$ 21.56	$ 24.52
Granted (in shares)	396,949	16,662
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)	$ 8.88	$ 12.09
Forfeited (in shares)	(15,626)	(4,249)
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)	$ 12.01	$ 27.28
Vested (in shares)	(32,687)	(34,653)
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)	$ 17.97	$ 19.02
Non-vested balance (in shares)	418,982	70,346
Non-vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)	$ 10.19	$ 21.56

Note 12 - Stockholders' Equit_2

Note 12 - Stockholders' Equity (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	May 02, 2018	May 04, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Stock Repurchase Program, Period in Force	2 years	2 years
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount		$ 10,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued for Equity-based Compensation Obligations			26,899	25,447
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Treasury Stock Reissued for Equity-based Compensation Obligations			$ 200	$ 300
Treasury Stock, Shares, Ending Balance			136,897	62,223
Treasury Stock, Value, Ending Balance			$ 1,040	$ 664

Note 12 - Stockholders' Equit_3

Note 12 - Stockholders' Equity - Share Repurchase Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Total number of common shares acquired (in shares)	101,573	30,000
Average price per common share acquired (including commissions) (in dollars per share)	$ 5.72	$ 8.71
Total cost of common shares acquired (in thousands)	$ 581	$ 262	$ 829

Note 13 - Related Party Trans_2

Note 13 - Related Party Transactions (Details Textual) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)
Chalet [Member]
Number of Operating Leases	5
Number of Capital Leases	1
Related Party Transaction Number of Owners That Are Non-Independent Board Members of the Entity	4
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party	$ 1.2	$ 1.2	$ 1.2
Isely Family Land Trust LLC [Member]
Number of Operating Leases	1
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party	$ 0.3	0.3	0.3
FTVC, LLC [Member]
Number of Operating Leases	1
Related Party Transaction Number of Owners That Are Non-Independent Board Members of the Entity	4
FTVC, LLC [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party	$ 0.1	$ 0.1	$ 0.1

Note 14 - Income Taxes (Details

Note 14 - Income Taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent, Total	(20.70%)	33.10%	33.90%
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards Utilized	$ 0.1	$ 0.1

Note 14 - Income Taxes - Compon

Note 14 - Income Taxes - Components of the Provision for Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Current federal income tax expense (benefit)									$ 3,083	$ 2,837	$ (853)
Current state income tax expense (benefit)									721	336	(254)
Total current income tax expense (benefit)									3,804	3,173	(1,107)
Deferred federal income tax (benefit) expense									(5,760)	206	6,103
Deferred state income tax (benefit) expense									(212)	35	868
Total deferred income tax (benefit) expense									(5,972)	241	6,971
Total (benefit from) provision for income taxes	$ 192	$ 597	$ 1,120	$ (4,077)	$ 448	$ 204	$ 1,640	$ 1,122	$ (2,168)	$ 3,414	$ 5,864

Note 14 - Income Taxes - Reconc

Note 14 - Income Taxes - Reconciliation Between the U.S. Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate and the Company's Effective Tax Rate (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Statutory tax rate	24.30%	34.00%	34.00%
State income taxes, net of federal income tax expense	3.30%	2.70%	2.90%
Remeasurement	(41.30%)
Enhanced food deduction	(1.80%)	(2.70%)	(1.60%)
Deferred tax liability adjustment	(6.30%)
Other, net	1.10%	(0.90%)	(1.40%)
Effective tax rate	(20.70%)	33.10%	33.90%

Note 14 - Income Taxes - Deferr

Note 14 - Income Taxes - Deferred Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Current assets
Long-term liabilities	(6,447)	(12,419)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$ (6,447)	$ (12,419)

Note 14 - Income Taxes - Tax Ef

Note 14 - Income Taxes - Tax Effects of Temporary Differences That Give Rise to Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Capital and financing lease obligations	$ 10,022	$ 12,670
Goodwill	955	1,853
Leasehold incentives	2,180	3,484
Deferred rent	2,706	3,980
Trademarks	658	1,021
Accrued employee benefits	642	910
Deferred compensation	169	468
Other	339	439
Gross deferred tax assets	17,671	24,825
Property and equipment	(21,489)	(33,127)
Leasehold improvements	(2,407)	(3,774)
Subleases	(214)	(343)
Other	(8)
Gross deferred tax liabilities	(24,118)	(37,244)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$ (6,447)	$ (12,419)

Note 15 - Defined Contributio_2

Note 15 - Defined Contribution Plan (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match	25.00%
Defined Contribution Plan Employer Maximum Discretionary Contribution Amount per Employee	$ 2,500
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost	$ 600,000	$ 100,000

Note 16 - Segment Reporting (De

Note 16 - Segment Reporting (Details Textual)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018
Number of Reportable Segments	1	1

Note 16 - Segment Reporting - S

Note 16 - Segment Reporting - Sales from Natural and Organic Retail Stores (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Sales percentage	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Grocery [Member]
Sales percentage	68.00%	67.00%	67.00%
Dietary Supplements [Member]
Sales percentage	21.00%	22.00%	22.00%
Body Care, Pet Care, and Other [Member]
Sales percentage	11.00%	11.00%	11.00%

Note 18 - Selected Quarterly _3

Note 18 - Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) - Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Revenues, Total	$ 217,521	$ 213,130	$ 215,911	$ 202,480	$ 198,541	$ 194,709	$ 192,203	$ 183,577	$ 849,042	$ 769,030	$ 705,499
Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs	160,219	156,299	157,630	149,321	145,297	141,928	138,045	131,424	623,469	556,694	503,727
Gross profit	57,302	56,831	58,281	53,159	53,244	52,781	54,158	52,153	225,573	212,336	201,772
Store expenses	48,095	47,000	46,480	45,166	45,079	45,028	42,400	41,843	186,741	174,350	156,158
Administrative expenses	5,161	5,630	5,458	5,257	5,142	5,105	4,959	4,883	21,506	20,089	19,242
Pre-opening and relocation expenses	590	443	697	543	284	970	1,284	1,261	2,273	3,799	5,993
Operating income	3,456	3,758	5,646	2,193	2,739	1,678	5,515	4,166	15,053	14,098	20,379
Interest expense, net	(1,179)	(1,170)	(1,122)	(1,089)	(1,055)	(876)	(879)	(983)	(4,560)	(3,793)	(3,044)
Income before income taxes	2,277	2,588	4,524	1,104	1,684	802	4,636	3,183	10,493	10,305	17,335
Benefit from (provision for) income taxes	(192)	(597)	(1,120)	4,077	(448)	(204)	(1,640)	(1,122)	2,168	(3,414)	(5,864)
Net income	$ 2,085	$ 1,991	$ 3,404	$ 5,181	$ 1,236	$ 598	$ 2,996	$ 2,061	$ 12,661	$ 6,891	$ 11,471
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.10	$ 0.09	$ 0.15	$ 0.23	$ 0.06	$ 0.03	$ 0.13	$ 0.09	$ 0.57	$ 0.31	$ 0.51
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.09	$ 0.09	$ 0.15	$ 0.23	$ 0.06	$ 0.03	$ 0.13	$ 0.09	$ 0.56	$ 0.31	$ 0.51
Provision for income taxes	$ (192)	$ (597)	$ (1,120)	$ 4,077	$ (448)	$ (204)	$ (1,640)	$ (1,122)	$ 2,168	$ (3,414)	$ (5,864)