Papa John's International (PZZA) 10-K 21 Feb 17 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Feb. 14, 2017	Jun. 26, 2016
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 25, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	PZZA
Entity Registrant Name	PAPA JOHNS INTERNATIONAL INC
Entity Central Index Key	901,491
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-25
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		36,755,723
Entity Public Float			$ 1,783,791,775

Consolidated Statements of Inco

Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Revenues:
Total revenues	$ 1,713,620	$ 1,637,375	$ 1,598,149
Costs and expenses:
General and administrative expenses	163,812	163,626	147,810
Depreciation and amortization	40,987	40,307	39,965
Total costs and expenses	1,559,319	1,501,068	1,479,540
Refranchising and impairment gains/(losses), net	10,222		(979)
Operating income	164,523	136,307	117,630
Legal settlement expense	898	(12,278)
Investment income	785	794	702
Interest expense	(7,397)	(5,676)	(4,077)
Income before income taxes	158,809	119,147	114,255
Income tax expense	49,717	37,183	36,558
Net income before attribution to noncontrolling interests	109,092	81,964	77,697
Income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(6,272)	(6,282)	(4,382)
Net income attributable to the Company	102,820	75,682	73,315
Calculation of income for earnings per share:
Net income attributable to the Company	102,820	75,682	73,315
Change in noncontrolling interest redemption value	567	65	(44)
Net income attributable to participating securities	(420)	(325)	(402)
Net income attributable to common shareholders	$ 102,967	$ 75,422	$ 72,869
Basic earnings per common share	$ 2.76	$ 1.91	$ 1.78
Diluted earnings per common share	$ 2.74	$ 1.89	$ 1.75
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding	37,253	39,458	40,960
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding	37,608	40,000	41,718
Dividends declared per common share	$ 0.75	$ 0.63	$ 0.53
Domestic Company-owned restaurants
Revenues:
Total revenues	$ 815,931	$ 756,307	$ 701,854
Costs and expenses:
Operating costs (excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below)	651,536	604,206	572,058
North America franchising
Revenues:
Total revenues	102,980	96,056	90,169
North America commissary and other
Revenues:
Total revenues	681,606	680,321	703,671
Costs and expenses:
Operating costs (excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below)	631,475	629,423	655,989
International
Revenues:
Total revenues	113,103	104,691	102,455
Costs and expenses:
Operating costs (excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below)	$ 71,509	$ 63,506	$ 63,718

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Net income before attribution to noncontrolling interests	$ 109,092	$ 81,964	$ 77,697
Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(7,922)	(2,133)	(2,584)
Interest rate swaps	1,492	(1,846)	(261)
Other comprehensive loss, before tax	(6,430)	(3,979)	(2,845)
Income tax effect:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	2,931	789	956
Interest rate swaps	(552)	683	97
Income tax effect	2,379	1,472	1,053
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(4,051)	(2,507)	(1,792)
Comprehensive income before attribution to noncontrolling interests	105,041	79,457	75,905
Comprehensive loss, redeemable noncontrolling interests	(3,665)	(3,873)	(3,687)
Comprehensive loss, nonredeemable noncontrolling interests	(2,607)	(2,409)	(695)
Comprehensive income attributable to the Company	$ 98,769	$ 73,175	$ 71,523

Consolidated Statements of Com4

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
Interest expense	$ 7,397	$ 5,676	$ 4,077
Income tax effects	49,717	37,183	36,558
Qualifying as hedges | Interest rate swap | Amount reclassified from AOCI
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
Interest expense	1,161	1,563	996
Income tax effects	$ 429	$ 578	$ 369

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 15,563	$ 21,006
Accounts receivable (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,486 in 2016 and $2,447 in 2015)	59,586	63,163
Accounts receivable - affiliates (no allowance for doubtful accounts in 2016 and 2015)	105	157
Notes receivable (no allowance for doubtful accounts in 2016 and 2015)	3,417	7,816
Income taxes receivable	2,372	272
Inventories	25,132	21,564
Prepaid expenses	24,105	20,372
Other current assets	9,038	8,941
Assets held for sale	6,257	9,299
Total current assets	145,575	152,590
Property and equipment, net	230,473	214,044
Notes receivable, less current portion (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,759 in 2016 and $3,653 in 2015)	10,141	11,105
Goodwill	85,529	79,657
Deferred income taxes	769	2,415
Other assets	40,078	34,247
Total assets	512,565	494,058
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	42,701	43,492
Income and other taxes payable	8,540	8,527
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	76,789	80,918
Total current liabilities	128,030	132,937
Deferred revenue	3,313	3,190
Long-term debt, net	299,820	255,146
Deferred income taxes	10,047	4,610
Other long-term liabilities	53,093	47,606
Total liabilities	494,303	443,489
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	8,461	8,363
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock ($0.01 par value per share; no shares issued)
Common stock ($0.01 par value per share; issued 44,066 at December 25, 2016 and 43,731 at December 27, 2015)	441	437
Additional paid-in capital	172,573	158,348
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(5,887)	(1,836)
Retained earnings	219,278	143,789
Treasury stock (7,383 shares at December 25, 2016 and 5,308 shares at December 27, 2015, at cost)	(390,316)	(271,557)
Total stockholders' (deficit) equity, net of noncontrolling interests	(3,911)	29,181
Noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries	13,712	13,025
Total stockholders’ equity	9,801	42,206
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests and stockholders’ equity	$ 512,565	$ 494,058

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 1,486	$ 2,447
Accounts receivable - affiliates, allowance for doubtful accounts	0	0
Notes receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	0	0
Notes receivable, less current portion, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 2,759	$ 3,653
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares issued	44,066	43,731
Treasury stock, shares	7,383	5,308

Consolidated Statements of Stoc

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Common Stock	Additional Paid-In Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Retained Earnings	Treasury Stock	Noncontrolling Interests in Subsidiaries	Total
Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$ 428	$ 137,552	$ 2,463	$ 41,297	$ (44,066)	$ 510	$ 138,184
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 29, 2013	41,667
Net income attributable to the Company				73,315		695	74,010
Other comprehensive loss			(1,792)				(1,792)
Cash dividends paid		87		(21,692)			(21,605)
Exercise of stock options	$ 5	5,832					5,837
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	535
Tax effect of equity awards		1,047					1,047
Acquisition of Company common stock					(117,400)		(117,400)
Acquisition of Company common stock (in shares)	(2,562)
Stock-based compensation expense		8,712					8,712
Issuance of restricted stock		(5,443)			5,443
Issuance of restricted stock (in shares)	133
Change in redemption value of noncontrolling interests				(44)			(44)
Reclassification from temporary equity to permanent equity						11,391	11,391
Contributions from noncontrolling interests						1,086	1,086
Distributions to noncontrolling interests						(1,200)	(1,200)
Other		125			364		489
Other (in shares)	9
Balance at Dec. 28, 2014	$ 433	147,912	671	92,876	(155,659)	12,482	98,715
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 28, 2014	39,782
Net income attributable to the Company				75,682		2,409	78,091
Other comprehensive loss			(2,507)				(2,507)
Cash dividends paid		100		(24,834)			(24,734)
Exercise of stock options	$ 3	5,194					5,197
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	320
Tax effect of equity awards		(830)					(830)
Acquisition of Company common stock					(119,793)		(119,793)
Acquisition of Company common stock (in shares)	(1,845)
Stock-based compensation expense		9,423					9,423
Issuance of restricted stock	$ 1	(3,232)			3,231
Issuance of restricted stock (in shares)	151
Change in redemption value of noncontrolling interests				65			65
Contributions from noncontrolling interests						684	684
Distributions to noncontrolling interests						(2,550)	(2,550)
Other		(219)			664		445
Other (in shares)	15
Balance at Dec. 27, 2015	$ 437	158,348	(1,836)	143,789	(271,557)	13,025	42,206
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 27, 2015	38,423
Net income attributable to the Company				102,820		2,607	105,427
Other comprehensive loss			(4,051)				(4,051)
Cash dividends paid		119		(27,898)			(27,779)
Exercise of stock options	$ 3	7,056					7,059
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	334
Tax effect of equity awards		(7)					(7)
Acquisition of Company common stock					(122,381)		(122,381)
Acquisition of Company common stock (in shares)	(2,145)
Stock-based compensation expense		10,123					10,123
Issuance of restricted stock	$ 1	(2,975)			2,974
Issuance of restricted stock (in shares)	58
Change in redemption value of noncontrolling interests				567			567
Contributions from noncontrolling interests						690	690
Distributions to noncontrolling interests						(2,610)	(2,610)
Other		(91)			648		557
Other (in shares)	13
Balance at Dec. 25, 2016	$ 441	$ 172,573	$ (5,887)	$ 219,278	$ (390,316)	$ 13,712	$ 9,801
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 25, 2016	36,683

Consolidated Statements of Sto8

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
Income attributable to noncontrolling interests	$ 6,272	$ 6,282	$ 4,382
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(5,887)	(1,836)	671
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses)	(5,402)	(411)	933
Net unrealized gain (loss) on the interest rate swap agreements	$ (485)	$ (1,425)	$ (262)

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Operating activities
Net income before attribution to noncontrolling interests	$ 109,092	$ 81,964	$ 77,697
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provision for uncollectible accounts and notes receivable	409	1,232	1,795
Depreciation and amortization	40,987	40,307	39,965
Deferred income taxes	11,624	(6,246)	4,422
Stock-based compensation expense	10,123	9,423	8,712
Gain on refranchising	(11,572)
Impairment loss	1,350		979
Other	3,337	4,633	3,759
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable	1,557	(9,179)	(5,741)
Income taxes receivable	(2,100)	9,255	(9,527)
Inventories	(3,639)	4,967	(2,838)
Prepaid expenses	(3,826)	(2,425)	(4,394)
Other current assets	616	829	(387)
Other assets and liabilities	(6,269)	620	915
Accounts payable	(916)	4,804	3,171
Income and other taxes payable	9	(1,113)	5,233
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	(7,960)	21,201	(665)
Deferred revenue	1,235	40	(464)
Net cash provided by operating activities	144,057	160,312	122,632
Investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment	(55,554)	(38,972)	(48,655)
Loans issued	(3,210)	(4,741)	(6,816)
Repayments of loans issued	8,569	5,183	4,254
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(13,352)	(922)	(4,773)
Proceeds from divestitures of restaurants	16,844		400
Other	429	500	556
Net cash used in investing activities	(46,274)	(38,952)	(55,034)
Financing activities
Net proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	44,575	25,549	72,551
Cash dividends paid	(27,896)	(24,844)	(21,735)
Excess tax benefit on equity awards	6,200	10,151	10,282
Tax payments for equity award issuances	(6,024)	(10,965)	(9,235)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	7,060	5,197	5,837
Acquisition of Company common stock	(122,381)	(119,793)	(117,400)
Contributions from noncontrolling interest holders	690	684	1,086
Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders	(5,610)	(6,550)	(2,800)
Other	556	444	491
Net cash used in financing activities	(102,830)	(120,127)	(60,923)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(396)	(349)	(223)
Change in cash and cash equivalents	(5,443)	884	6,452
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	21,006	20,122	13,670
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 15,563	$ 21,006	$ 20,122

Description of Business

Description of Business	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Description of Business
Description of Business	1. Description of Business Papa John’s International, Inc. (referred to as the “Company,” “Papa John’s” or in the first person notations of “we,” “us” and “our”) operates and franchises pizza delivery and carryout restaurants under the trademark “Papa John’s,” currently in all 50 states and in 45 international countries and territories. Substantially all revenues are derived from retail sales of pizza and other food and beverage products to the general public by Company-owned restaurants, franchise royalties, sales of franchise and development rights, and sales to franchisees of food and paper products, printing and promotional items, risk management services, and information systems and related services used in their operations.

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies	2. Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Papa John’s and its subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. Variable Interest Entity Papa John’s domestic restaurants, both Company-owned and franchised, participate in Papa John’s Marketing Fund, Inc. (PJMF), a nonstock corporation designed to operate at break-even for the purpose of designing and administering advertising and promotional programs for all participating domestic restaurants. PJMF is a variable interest entity (“VIE”) as it does not have sufficient equity to fund its operations without ongoing financial support and contributions from its members. Based on the ownership and governance structure and operating procedures of PJMF, we have determined that we do not have the power to direct the most significant activities of PJMF and are therefore not the primary beneficiary. Accordingly, consolidation of PJMF is not appropriate . Fiscal Year Our fiscal year ends on the last Sunday in December of each year. All fiscal years presented consist of 52 weeks. Use of Estimates The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Significant items that are subject to such estimates and assumptions include allowance for doubtful accounts and notes receivable, intangible assets, online customer loyalty program obligation, insurance reserves and tax reserves. Although management bases its estimates on historical experience and assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, actual results could significantly differ from these estimates. Revenue Recognition Retail sales from Company-owned restaurants and franchise royalties, which are based on a percentage of franchise restaurant sales, are recognized as revenues when the products are delivered to or carried out by customers. Franchise fees are recognized when a franchised restaurant begins operations, at which time we have performed our obligations related to such fees. Fees received pursuant to development agreements which grant the right to develop franchised restaurants in future periods in specific geographic areas are deferred and recognized on a pro rata basis as franchised restaurants subject to the development agreements begin operations. The Company offers various incentive programs for franchisees including royalty incentives, new restaurant opening (i.e. development incentives) and other various support initiatives. Royalties, franchise fees and commissary sales are reduced to reflect any incentives earned or granted under these programs that are in the form of discounts. Direct mail advertising discounts are also periodically offered. North America commissary and other sales are reduced to reflect these advertising discounts. Other development incentives for opening restaurants are offered in the form of Company equipment at no cost. This equipment is amortized over the term of the agreement, which is generally three years, and is recognized in general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of income. North America commissary and other sales are comprised of food, promotional items and supplies sold to franchised restaurants located in the United States and Canada and are recognized as revenue upon shipment of the related products to the franchisees. Fees for information services, including software maintenance fees, help desk fees and online ordering fees are recognized as revenue as such services are provided and are included in North America commissary and other sales. Insurance commissions are recognized as revenue over the term of the policy period and are included in North America commissary and other sales. International revenues are comprised of Company-owned restaurant sales, royalties, franchise fees and revenues for the production and distribution of food to international franchisees. Revenues are recognized consistently with the policies applied for revenues generated in the United States. Advertising and Related Costs Advertising and related costs of $70.9 million, $67.2 million and $63.5 million in 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively, include the costs of domestic Company-owned local restaurant activities such as mail coupons, door hangers and promotional items and contributions to PJMF and various local market cooperative advertising funds (“Co-op Funds”). Contributions by domestic Company-owned and franchised restaurants to PJMF and the Co-op Funds are based on an established percentage of monthly restaurant revenues. PJMF is responsible for developing and conducting marketing and advertising for the domestic Papa John’s system. The Co-op Funds are responsible for developing and conducting advertising activities in a specific market, including the placement of electronic and print materials developed by PJMF. We recognize domestic Company-owned restaurant contributions to PJMF and the Co-op Funds in which we do not have a controlling interest in the period in which the contribution accrues. The net assets of the Co-op Funds in which we possess majority voting rights, and thus control the cooperatives, are included in our consolidated balance sheets. Leases Lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the expected life of the lease term. A lease term often includes option periods, available at the inception of the lease. Stock-Based Compensation Compensation expense for equity grants is estimated on the grant date, net of projected forfeitures, and is recognized over the vesting period (generally in equal installments over three years). Restricted stock is valued based on the market price of the Company’s shares on the date of grant. Stock options are valued using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. Our specific assumptions for estimating the fair value of options are included in Note 18. Cash Equivalents Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with maturity of three months or less at date of purchase. These investments are carried at cost, which approximates fair value. Accounts Receivable Substantially all accounts receivable are due from franchisees for purchases of food, paper products, restaurant equipment, printing and promotional items, risk management services, information systems and related services, and royalties. Credit is extended based on an evaluation of the franchisee’s financial condition and collateral is generally not required. A reserve for uncollectible accounts is established as deemed necessary based upon overall accounts receivable aging levels and a specific review of accounts for franchisees with known financial difficulties. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after recovery efforts have ceased. Notes Receivable The Company provides financing to select franchisees principally for use in the construction and development of their restaurants and for the purchase of restaurants from the Company or other franchisees. Notes receivable bear interest at fixed or floating rates and are generally secured by the assets of each restaurant and the ownership interests in the franchise. We establish an allowance based on a review of each borrower’s economic performance and underlying collateral value. Note balances are charged off against the allowance after recovery efforts have ceased. Inventories Inventories, which consist of food products, paper goods and supplies, smallwares, and printing and promotional items, are stated at the lower of cost, determined under the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method, or market. Property and Equipment Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is recorded using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets (generally five to ten years for restaurant, commissary and other equipment, 20 to 40 years for buildings and improvements, and five years for technology and communication assets). Leasehold improvements are amortized over the terms of the respective leases, including the first renewal period (generally five to ten years). Depreciation expense was $39.7 million in 2016 and 2015, and $39.1 million in 2014. Deferred Costs We defer certain information systems development and related costs that meet established criteria. Amounts deferred, which are included in property and equipment, are amortized principally over periods not exceeding five years beginning in the month subsequent to completion of the related information systems project. Total costs deferred were approximately $2.6 million in 2016 and 2015 and $3.3 million in 2014. The unamortized information systems development costs approximated $9.8 million and $9.1 million as of December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015, respectively. Intangible Assets — Goodwill We evaluate goodwill annually in the fourth quarter or whenever we identify certain triggering events or circumstances that would more-likely-than-not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Such tests are completed separately with respect to the goodwill of each of our reporting units, which includes our domestic Company-owned restaurants, China and the United Kingdom (“PJUK”). We may perform a qualitative assessment or move directly to the quantitative assessment for any reporting unit in any period if we believe that it is more efficient or if impairment indicators exist. We elected to perform a qualitative assessment for our domestic Company-owned restaurants, China, and PJUK reporting units in 2016. As a result of our qualitative analyses, we determined that it was more-likely-than-not that the fair values of our reporting units were greater than their carrying amounts. This assessment excluded the goodwill allocated to assets held for sale in 2016 as it was separately evaluated. Subsequent to completing our goodwill impairment tests, no indications of impairment were identified. Deferred Income Tax Accounts and Tax Reserves We are subject to income taxes in the United States and several foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in determining our provision for income taxes and the related assets and liabilities. The provision for income taxes includes income taxes paid, currently payable or receivable and those deferred. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities, and are measured using enacted tax rates and laws that are expected to be in effect when the differences reverse. Deferred tax assets are also recognized for the estimated future effects of tax attribute carryforwards (e.g., net operating losses, capital losses, and foreign tax credits). The effect on deferred taxes of changes in tax rates is recognized in the period in which the new tax is enacted. As a result, our effective tax rate may fluctuate. Valuation allowances are established when necessary on a jurisdictional basis to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts we expect to realize. Tax authorities periodically audit the Company. We record reserves and related interest and penalties for identified exposures as income tax expense. We evaluate these issues and adjust for events, such as statute of limitations expirations, court rulings or audit settlements, which may impact our ultimate payment for such exposures. Insurance Reserves Our insurance programs for workers’ compensation, owned and non-owned automobiles, general liability, property, and health insurance coverage provided to our employees are funded by the Company up to certain retention levels under our retention programs. Retention limits generally range from $100,000 to $1.0 million. Losses are accrued based upon undiscounted estimates of the liability for claims incurred using certain third-party actuarial projections and our claims loss experience. The estimated insurance claims losses could be significantly affected should the frequency or ultimate cost of claims differ significantly from historical trends used to estimate the insurance reserves recorded by the Company. See Note 12 for additional information on our insurance reserves. Derivative Financial Instruments We recognize all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. At inception and on an ongoing basis, we assess whether each derivative that qualifies for hedge accounting continues to be highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the hedged item. If the derivative meets the hedge criteria as defined by certain accounting standards, depending on the nature of the hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative are either offset against the change in fair value of assets, liabilities or firm commitments through earnings or recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL") until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of a derivative’s change in fair value, if any, is immediately recognized in earnings. We recognized income of $1.5 million ($0.9 million after tax) in 2016, a loss of $1.8 million ($1.2 million after tax) in 2015 and a loss of $261,000 ($164,000 after tax) in 2014, in AOCL for the net change in the fair value of our interest rate swaps. See Note 9 for additional information on our debt and credit arrangements. Noncontrolling Interests The Company has five joint ventures in which there are noncontrolling interests. Consolidated net income is required to be reported separately at amounts attributable to both the parent and the noncontrolling interest. Additionally, disclosures are required to clearly identify and distinguish between the interests of the parent company and the interests of the noncontrolling owners, including a disclosure on the face of the consolidated statements of income attributable to the noncontrolling interest holder. The following summarizes the redemption feature, location and related accounting within the consolidated balance sheets for these joint venture arrangements: Type of Joint Venture Arrangement Location within the Balance Sheets Recorded Value Joint venture with no redemption feature Permanent equity Carrying value Option to require the Company to purchase the noncontrolling interest - currently redeemable Temporary equity Redemption value* Option to require the Company to purchase the noncontrolling interest - not currently redeemable Temporary equity Carrying value *The change in redemption value is recorded as an adjustment to “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” and “Retained earnings” in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 6 for additional information regarding noncontrolling interests. Foreign Currency Translation The local currency is the functional currency for each of our foreign subsidiaries. Revenues and expenses are translated into U.S. dollars using monthly average exchange rates, while assets and liabilities are translated using year-end exchange rates. The resulting translation adjustments are included as a component of AOCL net of income taxes. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Deferred Debt Issuance Costs In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Codification (“ASU”) 2015-03 “Interest – Imputation of Interest: Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs” (“ASU 2015-03”). The update required that deferred debt issuance costs be reported as a reduction to long-term debt (previously reported in other noncurrent assets). We adopted ASU 2015-03 in 2016 and for all retrospective periods, as required. The impact of the adoption was not material to our consolidated financial statements. Employee Share-Based Payments In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “Compensation – Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting” (“ASU 2016-09”). The guidance changes how companies account for certain aspects of share-based payment awards to employees, including the accounting for income taxes, an accounting policy election for forfeitures and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-09 is effective for the Company beginning in fiscal 2017. Based on the significance of our employee stock compensation program, we expect the adoption could have a material impact on our effective income tax rate and related earnings per share calculation in our consolidated statement of income, and our consolidated statement of cash flows, depending on the timing and intrinsic value of future award vesting and exercise activity. The Company has elected not to change our accounting policy for forfeitures and statutory tax withholding requirements. Leases In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases,” (“ASU 2016-02”) which amends leasing guidance by requiring companies to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all operating and capital leases (financing) with lease terms greater than twelve months. The lease liability will be equal to the present value of lease payments. The lease asset will be based on the lease liability, subject to adjustment, such as for initial direct costs. For income statement purposes, leases will continue to be classified as operating or capital (financing) with lease expense in both cases calculated substantially the same as under the prior leasing guidance. ASU 2016-02 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 (fiscal 2019 for the Company), and early adoption is permitted. The Company has not yet determined the effect of the adoption on its consolidated financial statements. Revenue from Contracts with Customers In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“ASU 2014-09”), a comprehensive new revenue recognition standard that will supersede nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). This update requires companies to recognize revenue at amounts that reflect the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services at the time of transfer. In doing so, companies will need to use more judgment and make more estimates than under existing guidance. Such estimates may include identifying performance obligations in the contract, estimating the amount of variable consideration to include in the transaction price and allocating the transaction price to each separate performance obligation. Companies can either apply a full retrospective adoption or a modified retrospective adoption. In March and April 2016, the FASB issued the following amendments to clarify the implementation guidance: ASU No. 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net) and ASU No. 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing. We are required to adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2018. We do not expect the adoption will significantly impact our recognition of revenue from Company-owned restaurants, commissary sales or our continuing royalties or other fees from franchisees that are based on a percentage of the franchise sales. We are continuing to evaluate the impact on other less significant transactions including our loyalty program and the timing of recognizing franchise and development fees. We are also currently evaluating the method of adoption and the impact adoption will have on our related financial statement disclosures. Reclassification Certain prior year captions have been combined in the consolidated statements of income and certain amounts within the consolidated statements of cash flows have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Stockholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity	3. Stockholders’ Equity Shares Authorized and Outstanding The Company has authorized 5.0 million shares of preferred stock and 100.0 million shares of common stock. The Company’s outstanding shares of common stock, net of repurchased common stock, were 36.7 million shares at December 25, 2016 and 38.4 million shares at December 27, 2015. There were no shares of preferred stock issued or outstanding at December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015. Share Repurchase Program Our Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of up to $1.575 billion of common stock under a share repurchase program that began on December 9, 1999 and expires on February 28, 2018, including $50 million authorized in December 2016. Funding for the share repurchase program has been provided through a credit facility, operating cash flow, stock option exercises and cash and cash equivalents. We repurchased 2.1 million, 1.8 million and 2.6 million shares of our common stock for $122.4 million, $119.8 million and $117.4 million in 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. Subsequent to year end through February 14, 2017, the Company acquired an additional 86,801 shares at an aggregate cost of $7.4 million. As of February 14, 2017, $129.9 million was available for repurchase of common stock under this authorization. Cash Dividend The Company paid dividends of $27.9 million in 2016, $24.8 million in 2015 and $21.7 million in 2014. Subsequent to fiscal 2016, our Board of Directors declared a first quarter 2017 cash dividend of $0.20 per share, or approximately $7.4 million. The dividend was paid on February 17, 2017 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on February 6, 2017.

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Earnings per Share
Earnings per Share	4. Earnings per Share We compute earnings per share using the two-class method. The two-class method requires an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings per share for common shareholders and participating security holders according to dividends declared and participating rights in undistributed earnings. We consider time-based restricted stock awards to be participating securities because holders of such shares have non-forfeitable dividend rights. Under the two-class method, undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities are subtracted from net income attributable to the Company in determining net income attributable to common shareholders. Additionally, in accordance with ASC 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity , the increase in the redemption value for the noncontrolling interest of one of our joint ventures reduces income attributable to common shareholders (and a decrease in redemption value increases income attributable to common shareholders). Basic earnings per common share are computed by dividing net income attributable to common shareholders by the weighted-average common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per common share are computed by dividing the net income attributable to common shareholders by the diluted weighted average common shares outstanding. Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding consists of basic weighted average common shares outstanding plus weighted average awards outstanding under our equity compensation plans, which are dilutive securities. The calculations of basic earnings per common share and diluted earnings per common share for the years ended December 25, 2016, December 27, 2015 and December 28, 2014 are as follows (in thousands, except per share data): 2016 2015 2014 Basic earnings per common share: Net income attributable to the Company $ $ $ Change in noncontrolling interest redemption value Net income attributable to participating securities Net income attributable to common shareholders $ $ $ Weighted average common shares outstanding Basic earnings per common share $ $ $ Diluted earnings per common share: Net income attributable to common shareholders $ $ $ Weighted average common shares outstanding Dilutive effect of outstanding equity awards Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding Diluted earnings per common share $ $ $ Shares subject to options to purchase common stock with an exercise price greater than the average market price for the year were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per common share because the effect would have been antidilutive. The weighted average number of shares subject to antidilutive options was 331,000 in 2016, 251,000 in 2015 and 226,000 in 2014. See Note 6 for additional information regarding our noncontrolling interests and Note 18 for equity awards, including restricted stock.

Fair Value Measurements and Dis

Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures
Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures	5. Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures We are required to determine the fair value of financial assets and liabilities based on the price that would be received to sell the asset or paid to transfer the liability to a market participant. Fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity specific measurement. The fair value of certain assets and liabilities approximates carrying value because of the short-term nature of the accounts, including cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable. The carrying value of our notes receivable, net of allowances, also approximates fair value. The fair value of the amount outstanding under our revolving credit facility approximates its carrying value due to its variable market-based interest rate. These assets and liabilities are categorized as Level 1 as defined below. Certain assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a recurring and non-recurring basis and are required to be classified and disclosed in one of the following categories: · Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. · Level 2: Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data. · Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data. Our financial assets and liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015 are as follows (in thousands): Carrying Fair Value Measurements Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 December 25, 2016 Financial assets: Cash surrender value of life insurance policies (a) $ $ $ — $ — Financial liabilities: Interest rate swaps (b) — — December 27, 2015 Financial assets: Cash surrender value of life insurance policies (a) $ $ $ — $ — Financial liabilities: Interest rate swaps (b) — — (a) Represents life insurance policies held in our non-qualified deferred compensation plan. (b) The fair value of our interest rate swaps are based on the sum of all future net present value cash flows. The future cash flows are derived based on the terms of our interest rate swaps, as well as considering published discount factors, and projected London Interbank Offered Rates (“LIBOR”). Our assets and liabilities that were measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis as of December 25, 2016 include assets held for sale. The fair value was determined using a discounted cash flow model with unobservable inputs (Level 3) less estimated selling costs. We recorded an impairment loss of $1.4 million which represents the excess of the carrying value over the fair value; the impairment is recorded in refranchising and impairment gains/(losses), net in the consolidated statements of income. The assets held for sale were recognized at their carrying value as of December 27, 2015, because it was concluded at the time that the fair value exceeded the carrying value. There were no transfers among levels within the fair value hierarchy during fiscal 2016 or 2015.

Noncontrolling Interests

Noncontrolling Interests	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interests	6. Noncontrolling Interests Papa John’s has five joint ventures in which there are noncontrolling interests held by third parties. These joint ventures included 222 restaurants at December 25, 2016, 213 restaurants at December 27, 2015 and 200 restaurants at December 28, 2014. The income before income taxes attributable to these joint ventures for the years ended December 25, 2016, December 27, 2015 and December 28, 2014 were as follows (in thousands): 2016 2015 2014 Papa John’s International, Inc. $ $ $ Noncontrolling interests Total income before income taxes $ $ $ The noncontrolling interest holders of two joint ventures have the option to require the Company to purchase their interests. Since redemption of the noncontrolling interests is outside of the Company’s control, the noncontrolling interests are presented in the caption “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in the consolidated balance sheets. The following summarizes changes in our redeemable noncontrolling interests in 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Balance at December 28, 2014 $ Net income Distributions Change in redemption value Balance at December 27, 2015 $ Net income Distributions Change in redemption value Balance at December 25, 2016 $

Acquisitions and Divestitures

Acquisitions and Divestitures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Acquisition and Divestitures
Acquisitions and Divestitures	7. Acquisitions and Divestitures Acquisitions We acquired restaurants from our domestic franchisees in 2016, 2015 and 2014, which are summarized as follows : 2016 2015 2014 Number of restaurants acquired 25 7 13 Location of restaurants acquired Florida, Georgia North Carolina Georgia, Kentucky and Missouri and North Carolina Texas Colorado Illinois and Texas Purchase price (in thousands): Cash payment $ $ $ Cancellation of accounts and notes receivable — Total purchase price $ $ $ Final fair value allocation of purchase price (in thousands): Property and equipment $ $ $ Franchise rights Goodwill Other Total purchase price $ $ $ The restaurant acquisitions described above were accounted for by the purchase method of accounting, whereby operating results subsequent to the acquisition date are included in our consolidated financial results. The excess of the purchase price over the aggregate fair value of net assets acquired was allocated to goodwill for the Domestic Company-owned restaurants segment and is eligible for deduction over 15 years under U.S. tax regulations. Divestitures In the fourth quarter of 2016, we sold 42 Company-owned restaurants in Phoenix, AZ. The total consideration received was $16.8 million and was received in cash at closing. The sale of the restaurants resulted in an $11.6 million gain in 2016 and is recognized in refranchising and impairment gains/(losses), net in our consolidated statements of income. In September 2015, the Company decided to refranchise the China Company-owned market and is planning a sale of its existing China operations, consisting of 42 Company-owned restaurants and a commissary. We expect to sell the business during 2017; upon completion of the sale, the Company will not have any Company-owned international restaurants. We have classified the assets as held for sale within the consolidated balance sheet. Upon the classification of these assets to held for sale in 2015, no loss was recognized as their fair value exceeded their carrying value. In 2016, due to the length of time the China operations had been on the market, we determined that the fair value no longer exceeded the carrying value of the associated assets held for sale. Because of the decrease in fair value, we also reassessed the amount of goodwill that had been previously allocated to the assets held for sale based on the estimated fair value of the assets in relation to the fair value of the entire China reporting unit, which resulted in a reduction of the allocated goodwill to assets held for sale of $979,000. As a result of our impairment analysis, we recorded an impairment loss of $1.4 million for the period ended December 25, 2016. This amount is included in the refranchising and impairment gains/(losses), net in the consolidated statements of income. This charge includes the a write-off of all goodwill associated with the assets held for sale, an impairment loss for stores we expect to close in 2017, and a valuation allowance on the remaining assets held for sale. See Note 5 for additional information on the determination of fair value on the assets held for sale. The following summarizes the associated assets that are classified as held for sale (in thousands): December 25, 2016 December 27, 2015 Inventories $ $ Prepaid expenses Net property and equipment Goodwill — Other assets Valuation allowance — Total assets held for sale $ $ The Company-owned China operations have incurred losses before income taxes of $2.3 million in 2016, $1.2 million in 2015, and $3.4 million in 2014. The loss in 2016 includes the impairment charge of $1.4 million noted above. The loss in 2014 includes an impairment charge of $1.0 million for eleven Company-owned restaurants in China. These results are reported in our International segment.

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Goodwill and Other Intangibles
Goodwill and Other Intangibles	8. Goodwill and Other Intangibles The following summarizes changes in the Company’s goodwill, by reporting segment (in thousands): Domestic Company- owned Restaurants International (a) All Others Total Balance as of December 28, 2014 $ Acquisitions (b) — — Reclassification to assets held for sale (c) — — Foreign currency adjustments — — Balance as of December 27, 2015 Acquisitions (d) — — Divestitures (e) — — Adjustment to assets held for sale (c) — — Foreign currency adjustments — — Balance as of December 25, 2016 $ $ $ $ (a) The international goodwill balances for all years presented are net of accumulated impairment of $2.3 million associated with our PJUK reporting unit, which was recorded in fiscal 2008. (b) Includes seven restaurants located in three domestic markets. (c) Represents goodwill associated with the Company-owned China market. The goodwill was reclassified to assets held for sale, along with the other associated assets, in 2015 using a relative fair value approach. Based on an updated fair value analysis, the goodwill allocation was updated in 2016 and adjusted accordingly. See Note 7 for additional information. (d) Includes 25 restaurants located in four domestic markets. (e) Includes 42 restaurants located in one domestic market. For fiscal year 2016, we performed a qualitative analysis for our domestic Company-owned restaurants, China, and PJUK reporting units. For fiscal year 2015, we performed a qualitative analysis for our domestic Company-owned restaurants and our PJUK reporting unit and a quantitative analysis for our China reporting unit. For fiscal year 2014, we performed a quantitative analysis on each reporting unit. No impairment charges were recorded upon the completion of our goodwill impairment tests in 2014, 2015 and 2016, excluding the China goodwill allocated to assets held for sale in 2016. As part of our acquisitions of franchise restaurants, the Company records an intangible asset for the value of the franchise rights that are acquired. The intangible is amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the remaining franchise agreement as of the date of acquisition. As of December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015, the intangible was approximately $2.4 million and $700,000, respectively, net of accumulated amortization of $800,000 and $400,000, respectively. Amortization expense related to the intangible was approximately $400,000 for the period ended December 25, 2016, and $200,000 for the periods ended December 27, 2015 and December 28, 2014.

Debt and Credit Arrangements

Debt and Credit Arrangements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Debt and Credit Arrangements
Debt and Credit Arrangements	9. Debt and Credit Arrangements Long-term debt, net consists of the following (in thousands): December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Outstanding debt $ $ Debt issuance costs Total long-term debt, net $ $ Our outstanding debt is comprised entirely of an unsecured revolving line of credit (“Credit Facility”) with an expiration date of October 31, 2019. On June 8, 2016, we exercised our option to increase the amount available under our Credit Facility to $500 million from the previous $400 million availability. Including outstanding letters of credit, the remaining availability under the Credit Facility was approximately $172.6 million as of December 25, 2016. The interest rate charged on outstanding balances is LIBOR plus 75 to 175 basis points. The commitment fee on the unused balance ranges from 15 to 25 basis points. The Credit Facility contains customary affirmative and negative covenants, including financial covenants requiring the maintenance of specified fixed charges and leverage ratios. At December 25, 2016, we were in compliance with these covenants. We attempt to minimize interest risk exposure by fixing our rate through the utilization of interest rate swaps, which are derivative financial instruments. Our swaps are entered into with financial institutions and have reset dates and critical terms that match those of our existing debt and the anticipated critical terms of future debt. By using a derivative instrument to hedge exposures to changes in interest rates, we expose ourselves to credit risk. Credit risk is due to the possible failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative contract. As of December 25, 2016, we have the following interest rate swap agreements, including three forward starting swaps executed in 2015 that will become effective in 2018 upon expiration of the two existing swaps for $125 million: Fixed Effective Dates Debt Amount Rates July 30, 2013 through April 30, 2018 $ million % December 30, 2014 through April 30, 2018 $ million % April 30, 2018 through April 30, 2023 $ million % April 30, 2018 through April 30, 2023 $ million % April 30, 2018 through April 30, 2023 $ million % The effective portion of the gain or loss on the swaps is reported as a component of AOCL and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the swaps affect earnings. Gains or losses on the swaps representing either hedge ineffectiveness or hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized in current earnings. Amounts payable or receivable under the swaps are accounted for as adjustments to interest expense. The following table provides information on the location and amounts of our swaps in the accompanying consolidated financial statements (in thousands): Liability Derivatives Fair Value Fair Value December 25, December 27, Balance Sheet Location 2016 2015 Interest rate swaps Other current and long-term liabilities $ $ There were no derivatives that were not designated as hedging instruments. The effect of derivative instruments on the accompanying consolidated financial statements is as follows (in thousands): Amount of Gain Location of Gain or or (Loss) Location of Gain Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized Recognized in or (Loss) or (Loss) in Income on Income on Recognized in Reclassified Reclassified Derivative Derivative Derivatives- Cash AOCL on from AOCL into from AOCL into (Ineffective Portion (Ineffective Flow Derivative Income Income and Amount Portion and Amount Hedging (Effective (Effective (Effective Excluded from Excluded from Relationships Portion) Portion) Portion) Effectiveness Testing) Effectiveness Testing) Interest rate swaps: 2016 $ Interest expense $ Interest expense $ — 2015 $ Interest expense $ Interest expense $ — 2014 $ Interest expense $ Interest expense $ — The weighted average interest rates for the Credit Facility, including the impact of the previously mentioned swap agreements, were 2.1%, 2.0% and 1.7% in fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Interest paid, including payments made or received under the swaps, was $7.1 million in 2016, $5.3 million in 2015 and $3.7 million in 2014. As of December 25, 2016, the portion of the $770,000 liability associated with the interest rate swap that would be reclassified into earnings during the next 12 months as interest expense approximates $391,000.

Net Property and Equipment

Net Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Net Property and Equipment
Net Property and Equipment	10. Net Property and Equipment Net property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands): December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Land $ $ Buildings and improvements Leasehold improvements Equipment and other Construction in progress Total property and equipment Accumulated depreciation and amortization Net property and equipment $ $

Notes Receivable

Notes Receivable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Notes Receivable
Notes Receivable	11. Notes Receivable Selected franchisees have borrowed funds from the Company, principally for use in the construction and development of their restaurants. We have also entered into loan agreements with certain franchisees that purchased restaurants from us or from other franchisees. Loans outstanding were approximately $13.6 million and $18.9 million on a consolidated basis as of December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015, respectively, net of allowance for doubtful accounts. Notes receivable bear interest at fixed or floating rates and are generally secured by the assets of each restaurant and the ownership interests in the franchisee. The carrying amounts of the loans approximate fair value. Interest income recorded on franchisee loans was approximately $684,000 in 2016, $731,000 in 2015 and $658,000 in 2014 and is reported in investment income in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Based on our review of certain borrowers’ economic performance and underlying collateral value, we established allowances of $2.8 million and $3.7 million as of December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015, respectively, for potentially uncollectible notes receivable. The following summarizes changes in our notes receivable allowance for doubtful accounts (in thousands): Balance as of December 28, 2014 $ Recovered from costs and expenses Additions, net of notes written off Balance as of December 27, 2015 Recovered from costs and expenses Deductions, including notes written off Balance as of December 25, 2016 $

Insurance Reserves

Insurance Reserves	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Insurance Reserves
Insurance Reserves	12. Insurance Reserves The following table summarizes changes in our insurance program reserves (in thousands): Balance as of December 28, 2014 $ Additions Payments Balance as of December 27, 2015 Additions Payments Balance as of December 25, 2016 $ We are a party to standby letters of credit with off-balance sheet risk associated with our insurance programs. The total amount committed under letters of credit for these programs was $26.8 million at December 25, 2016.

Accrued Expenses and Other Curr

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities	13. Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following (in thousands): December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Salaries, benefits and bonuses $ $ Insurance reserves, current Purchases Customer loyalty program Rent Marketing Deposits Utilities Consulting and professional fees Legal costs* Other Total $ $ * Includes a $12.3 million legal settlement in 2015 (See Note 17).

Other Long-term Liabilities

Other Long-term Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Other Long-term Liabilities
Other Long-term Liabilities	14. Other Long-term Liabilities Other long-term liabilities consist of the following (in thousands): December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Deferred compensation plan $ $ Insurance reserves Accrued rent Other Total $ $

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Income Taxes
Income Taxes	15. Income Taxes A summary of the provision for income taxes follows (in thousands): 2016 2015 2014 Current: Federal $ $ $ Foreign State and local Deferred Total $ $ $ Significant deferred tax assets (liabilities) follow (in thousands): December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Accrued liabilities $ $ Accrued bonuses Other assets and liabilities Equity awards Other Foreign net operating losses Foreign tax credit carryforwards — Total deferred tax assets Valuation allowance on foreign net operating and capital losses, foreign deferred tax assets, and foreign tax credit carryforwards Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances Deferred expenses Accelerated depreciation Goodwill Other Total deferred tax liabilities Net deferred liability $ $ The Company had approximately $14.5 million and $21.9 million of foreign tax net operating loss carryovers as of December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015, respectively. The Company had approximately $3.1 million and $2.9 million of a valuation allowance primarily related to these foreign net operating losses as of December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015, respectively. A substantial majority of our foreign tax net operating losses do not have an expiration date. In addition, the Company had approximately $2.3 million in foreign tax credit carryforwards as of December 25, 2016 that expire 10 years from inception, or 2025. Our ability to utilize these foreign tax credit carryforwards is dependent on our ability to generate foreign earnings in future years sufficient to claim foreign tax credits in excess of foreign taxes paid in those years. The Company provided a full valuation allowance of $2.3 million for these foreign tax credit carryforwards as we believe realization based on the more-likely-than-not criteria has not been met as of December 25, 2016. The reconciliation of income tax computed at the U.S. federal statutory rate to income tax expense for the years ended December 25, 2016, December 27, 2015 and December 28, 2014 is as follows in both dollars and as a percentage of income before income taxes ($ in thousands): 2016 2015 2014 Income Tax Income Income Tax Income Income Tax Income Expense Tax Rate Expense Tax Rate Expense Tax Rate Tax at U.S. federal statutory rate $ % $ % $ % State and local income taxes % % % Foreign income taxes % % % Income of consolidated partnerships attributable to noncontrolling interests % % % Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (income) loss % % % Tax credits % % % Other % % % Total $ % $ % $ % Income taxes paid were $35.1 million in 2016, $23.3 million in 2015 and $27.0 million in 2014. The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various states and foreign jurisdictions. The Company, with few exceptions, is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local, or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2012. The Company is currently undergoing examinations by various tax authorities. The Company anticipates that the finalization of these current examinations and other issues could result in a decrease in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits (and a decrease of income tax expense) of approximately $267,000 during the next 12 months. The Company had $4.8 million of unrecognized tax benefits at December 25, 2016 of which, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending liability for unrecognized tax benefits excluding interest and penalties is as follows, which is recorded as an other long-term liability (in thousands): Balance at December 28, 2014 $ Additions for tax positions of current year Additions for tax positions of prior years Reductions for lapse of statute of limitations Balance at December 27, 2015 Additions for tax positions of current year Additions for tax positions of prior years Reductions for lapse of statute of limitations Balance at December 25, 2016 $ The Company’s 2016 and 2015 income tax expense includes a benefit of $278,000 and $217,000, respectively. The Company has accrued approximately $544,000 and $825,000 for the payment of interest and penalties as of December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015, respectively.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Related Party Transactions
Related Party Transactions	16. Related Party Transactions Certain of our officers own equity interests in entities that franchise restaurants. Following is a summary of full-year transactions and year-end balances with PJMF and franchisees owned by related parties (in thousands): 2016 2015 2014 Revenues from affiliates: North America commissary sales and other sales $ $ $ North America franchise royalties and fees Total $ $ $ December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Accounts receivable affiliates $ $ Accounts payable affiliates $ $ — The revenues from affiliates were at rates and terms available to independent franchisees. We paid $732,000 in 2016, $653,000 in 2015 and $770,000 in 2014 for charter aircraft services provided by an entity owned by our Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. We had the following transactions with PJMF: · PJMF reimbursed Papa John’s $1.1 million, $841,000 and $634,000 in 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively, for certain costs associated with national pizza giveaways awarded to our online loyalty program customers. · PJMF reimbursed Papa John’s $1.4 million in 2016 and 2015, and $1.2 million in 2014 for certain administrative services (i.e., marketing, accounting, and information services), graphic design services, services and expenses of our founder as brand spokesman, and for software maintenance fees.

Litigation, Commitments and Con

Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies.
Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies	17. Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies Litigation The Company is involved in a number of lawsuits, claims, investigations and proceedings, including those specifically identified below, consisting of intellectual property, employment, consumer, commercial and other matters arising in the ordinary course of business. In accordance with ASC 450 “Contingencies,” the Company has made accruals with respect to these matters, where appropriate, which are reflected in the Company’s financial statements. We review these provisions at least quarterly and adjust these provisions to reflect the impact of negotiations, settlements, rulings, advice of legal counsel and other information and events pertaining to a particular case. Perrin v. Papa John’s International, Inc. and Papa John’s USA, Inc. was a conditionally certified collective and class action filed in August 2009 in the United States District Court, Eastern District of Missouri (“the Court”), alleging that delivery drivers were not properly reimbursed for mileage and expenses in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”). Approximately 3,900 drivers out of a potential class size of 28,800 opted into the action. In December 2013, the Court granted a motion for class certification in five additional states, which added approximately 15,000 plaintiffs to the case. Though the Company denied any wrongdoing in this matter, the parties reached a settlement in principle, which was preliminarily approved by the Court in September 2015. With the preliminary settlement agreement, the Company recorded an expense of $12.3 million in June 2015 under the provisions of ASC 450, Contingencies. This amount is separately reported as a legal settlement in the consolidated statements of income. The Court issued its final order approving the settlement on January 12, 2016 and payments were distributed. The settlement amount was finalized and paid in 2016 and the expense was adjusted accordingly with a reduction of approximately $900,000. Leases We lease office, retail and commissary space under operating leases, which have an average term of five years and provide for at least one renewal. Certain leases further provide that the lease payments may be increased annually based on the fixed rate terms or adjustable terms such as the Consumer Price Index. We also lease the tractors and trailers used by our distribution subsidiary, PJFS, for an average period of seven years. PJUK, our subsidiary located in the United Kingdom, also leases certain retail space, which is primarily subleased to our franchisees. Beginning in 2016, we reported this sublease rental income on a gross basis in our consolidated statements of income. Prior to 2016, this sublease rental income was reported on a net basis with lease expense. Total sublease payments for sites to our franchisees and other third parties, the majority of which were with PJUK, in 2016, 2015 and 2014 were $7.5 million, $6.5 million and $6.7 million, respectively. Total lease expense was $45.0 million in 2016. Total lease expense, net of sublease payments received, was $36.2 million in 2015 and $34.7 million in 2014. Future lease costs and future expected sublease payments as of December 25, 2016, are as follows (in thousands): Future Expected Gross Lease Sublease Year Costs Payments 2017 $ $ 2018 2019 2020 2021 Thereafter Total $ $ The Company’s headquarters facility is leased under a capital lease arrangement with the City of Jeffersontown, Kentucky in connection with the issuance of $80.2 million in Industrial Revenue Bonds. The bonds are held 100% by the Company and, accordingly, the bond obligation and investment and related interest income and expense are eliminated in the consolidated financial statements resulting in the Company’s net investment cost being reported in net property and equipment. As a result of assigning our interest in obligations under property leases as a condition of the refranchising of certain restaurants, we are contingently liable for payment of approximately 44 domestic leases. These leases have varying terms, the latest of which expires in 2022. As of December 25, 2016, the estimated maximum amount of undiscounted payments the Company could be required to make in the event of nonpayment by the primary lessees was $4.1 million. The fair value of the guarantee is not material.

Equity Compensation

Equity Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Equity Compensation
Equity Compensation	18. Equity Compensation We award stock options, time-based restricted stock and performance-based restricted stock units from time to time under the Papa John’s International, Inc. 2011 Omnibus Incentive Plan. There are approximately 6.5 million shares of common stock authorized for issuance and remaining available under the 2011 Omnibus Incentive Plan as of December 25, 2016. Option awards are granted with an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s stock at the date of grant. Options outstanding as of December 25, 2016 generally expire ten years from the date of grant and generally vest over a three-year period. We recorded stock-based employee compensation expense of $10.1 million in 2016, $9.4 million in 2015 and $8.7 million in 2014. The total income tax benefit recognized in the consolidated income statement for share-based compensation arrangements was $3.7 million in 2016, $3.5 million in 2015 and $3.2 million in 2014. At December 25, 2016, there was $8.4 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested option awards, time-based restricted stock and performance-based restricted stock units, of which the Company expects to recognize $6.1 million in 2017, $2.1 million in 2018 and $250,000 in 2019. Stock Options Options exercised, which were issued from authorized shares, included 478,000 shares in 2016, 441,000 shares in 2015 and 759,000 shares in 2014. The total intrinsic value of the options exercised during 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $18.6 million, $20.3 million and $25.3 million, respectively. Cash received upon the exercise of stock options was $7.1 million, $5.2 million and $5.8 million during 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and the related tax benefits realized were approximately $6.9 million, $7.5 million and $9.4 million during the corresponding periods. Information pertaining to option activity during 2016 is as follows (number of options and aggregate intrinsic value in thousands): Weighted Average Weighted Remaining Number Average Contractual Aggregate of Exercise Term Intrinsic Options Price (In Years) Value Outstanding at December 27, 2015 $ Granted Exercised Cancelled Outstanding at December 25, 2016 $ $ Exercisable at December 25, 2016 $ $ The following is a summary of the significant assumptions used in estimating the fair value of options granted in 2016, 2015 and 2014: 2016 2015 2014 Assumptions (weighted average): Risk-free interest rate % % % Expected dividend yield % % % Expected volatility % % % Expected term (in years) The risk-free interest rate for the periods within the contractual life of an option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The expected dividend yield was estimated as the annual dividend divided by the market price of the Company’s shares on the date of grant. Expected volatility was estimated by using the Company’s historical share price volatility for a period similar to the expected life of the option. Options granted generally vest in equal installments over three years and expire ten years after grant. The expected term for these options represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The expected term for 2016 and 2015 was calculated using historical experience and the expected term for 2014 was calculated using the simplified method prescribed by Securities and Exchange Commission rules and regulations because the expiration term of our options increased from five to ten years and there was insufficient historical detail to be used to estimate the expected term. The weighted average grant-date fair values of options granted during 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $13.96, $16.93 and $16.48, respectively. The Company granted options to purchase 403,000, 330,000 and 293,000 shares in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units We granted shares of restricted stock that are time-based and generally vest in equal installments over three years (85,000 in 2016, 76,000 in 2015 and 89,000 in 2014). Upon vesting, the shares are issued from treasury stock. These restricted shares are intended to focus participants on our long-range objectives, while at the same time serving as a retention mechanism. We consider time-based restricted stock awards to be participating securities because holders of such shares have non-forfeitable dividend rights. We declared dividends totaling $117,000 ($0.75 per share) in 2016, $110,000 ($0.63 per share) in 2015 and $128,000 ($0.53 per share) in 2014 to holders of time-based restricted stock. Additionally, we granted stock settled performance-based restricted stock units to executive management (14,000 in 2016, 12,000 in 2015, and 17,000 in 2014). The vesting of these awards (a three-year cliff vest) is dependent upon the Company’s achievement of a compounded annual growth rate of earnings per share and the achievement of certain sales and unit growth metrics. Upon vesting, the shares are issued from authorized shares. The fair value of both time-based restricted stock and performance-based restricted stock units is based on the market price of the Company’s shares on the grant date. Information pertaining to these awards during 2016 is as follows (shares in thousands): Weighted Average Grant-Date Shares Fair Value Total as of December 27, 2015 Granted Incremental Performance Shares* — — Forfeited Vested Total as of December 25, 2016 $ * No performance shares vested in 2016.

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Employee Benefit Plans
Employee Benefit Plans	19. Employee Benefit Plans We have established the Papa John’s International, Inc. 401(k) Plan (the “401(k) Plan”), as a defined contribution benefit plan, in accordance with Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. The 401(k) Plan is open to employees who meet certain eligibility requirements and allows participating employees to defer receipt of a portion of their compensation and contribute such amount to one or more investment funds. At our discretion, we may make matching contribution payments, which are subject to vesting based on an employee’s length of service with us. In addition, we maintain a non-qualified deferred compensation plan available to certain employees and directors. Under this plan, the participants may defer a certain amount of their compensation, which is credited to the participants’ accounts. The participant-directed investments associated with this plan are included in other long-term assets ($21.7 million and $17.9 million at December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015, respectively) and the associated liabilities ($22.0 million and $18.5 million at December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015, respectively) are included in other long-term liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. At our discretion, we contributed a matching payment of 3%, up to a maximum of 6% deferred, in 2016 and 2015, and 1.5%, up to a maximum of 6% deferred, in 2014, of a participating employee’s earnings deferred into both the 401(k) Plan and the non-qualified deferred compensation plan. Such costs were $2.6 million in 2016, $1.5 million in 2015 and $734,000 in 2014.

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Segment Information
Segment Information	20. Segment Information We have five reportable segments for all years presented: domestic Company-owned restaurants, North America commissaries, North America franchising, international operations, and “all other” units. The domestic Company-owned restaurant segment consists of the operations of all domestic (“domestic” is defined as contiguous United States) Company-owned restaurants and derives its revenues principally from retail sales of pizza and side items, including breadsticks, cheesesticks, chicken poppers and wings, dessert items and canned or bottled beverages. The North America commissary segment consists of the operations of our regional dough production and product distribution centers and derives its revenues principally from the sale and distribution of food and paper products to domestic Company-owned and franchised restaurants in the United States and Canada. The North America franchising segment consists of our franchise sales and support activities and derives its revenues from sales of franchise and development rights and collection of royalties from our franchisees located in the United States and Canada. The international operations segment principally consists of our Company-owned restaurants in China and distribution sales to franchised Papa John’s restaurants located in the United Kingdom, Mexico and China and our franchise sales and support activities, which derive revenues from sales of franchise and development rights and the collection of royalties from our international franchisees. International franchisees are defined as all franchise operations outside of the United States and Canada. All other business units that do not meet the quantitative thresholds for determining reportable segments, which are not operating segments, we refer to as our “all other” segment, which consists of operations that derive revenues from the sale, principally to Company-owned and franchised restaurants, of printing and promotional items, risk management services, and information systems and related services used in restaurant operations, including our point-of-sale system, online and other technology-based ordering platforms. Generally, we evaluate performance and allocate resources based on profit or loss from operations before income taxes and intercompany eliminations. Certain administrative and capital costs are allocated to segments based upon predetermined rates or actual estimated resource usage. We account for intercompany sales or transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties and eliminate the activity in consolidation. Our reportable segments are business units that provide different products or services. Separate management of each segment is required because each business unit is subject to different operational issues and strategies. No single external customer accounted for 10% or more of our consolidated revenues. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies (see Note 2). Our segment information is as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Revenues from external customers: Domestic Company-owned restaurants $ $ $ North America commissaries North America franchising International All others Total revenues from external customers $ $ $ Intersegment revenues: North America commissaries $ $ $ North America franchising International All others Total intersegment revenues $ $ $ Depreciation and amortization: Domestic Company-owned restaurants $ $ $ North America commissaries International All others Unallocated corporate expenses Total depreciation and amortization $ $ $ Income (loss) before income taxes: Domestic Company-owned restaurants (1) $ $ $ North America commissaries North America franchising International (2) All others Unallocated corporate expenses (3) Elimination of intersegment profit Total income before income taxes $ $ $ (1) Includes an $11.6 million refranchising gain in 2016. See Note 7 for additional information. (2) Includes a $1.4 million impairment loss in 2016. See Note 7 for additional information. (3) Includes a ($900,000) million legal settlement in 2016 and a $12.3 million legal settlement in 2015. See Note 17 for additional information. (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Property and equipment: Domestic Company-owned restaurants $ $ $ North America commissaries International All others Unallocated corporate assets Accumulated depreciation and amortization Net property and equipment $ $ $ Expenditures for property and equipment: Domestic Company-owned restaurants $ $ $ North America commissaries International All others Unallocated corporate Total expenditures for property and equipment $ $ $

Quarterly Data - Unaudited, in

Quarterly Data - Unaudited, in Thousands, except Per Share Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Quarterly Data - Unaudited, in Thousands, except Per Share Data
Quarterly Data - Unaudited, in Thousands, except Per Share Data	21. Quarterly Data - Unaudited, in Thousands, except Per Share Data Our quarterly select financial data is as follows: Quarter 2016 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total revenues $ $ $ $ Operating income Net income attributable to the Company (a) Basic earnings per common share (a) $ $ $ $ Diluted earnings per common share (a) $ $ $ $ Dividends declared per common share $ $ $ $ Quarter 2015 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total revenues $ $ $ $ Operating income Net income attributable to the Company (b) Basic earnings per common share (b) $ $ $ $ Diluted earnings per common share (b) $ $ $ $ Dividends declared per common share $ $ $ $ (a) The fourth quarter of 2016 includes an after tax gain of $7.3 million and a favorable impact of $0.19 on basic and diluted EPS from the sale of a domestic Company-owned market to a franchisee, and an after tax loss of $900,000 and an unfavorable impact of $0.02 on basic and diluted EPS from an impairment charge related to our company-owned stores in China that are currently for sale. See Note 7 for additional information. The fourth quarter of 2016 also includes an after tax gain of $600,000 and favorable impact of $0.02 on basic and diluted EPS related to a legal settlement. See Note 17 for additional information. (b) The second quarter of 2015 includes an after tax legal settlement of $8.0 million and an unfavorable impact of $0.20 on basic and diluted earnings per share. See Note 17 for additional information. All quarterly information is presented in 13-week periods. Quarterly earnings per share on a full-year basis may not agree to the consolidated statements of income due to rounding.

Schedule II - Valuation and Qua

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Charged to Balance at (recovered from) Balance at Beginning of Costs and Additions / End of Classification Year Expenses (Deductions) Year (in thousands) Fiscal year ended December 25, 2016 Deducted from asset accounts: Reserve for uncollectible accounts receivable $ $ $ (1) $ Reserve for franchisee notes receivable (1) Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets $ $ $ $ Fiscal year ended December 27, 2015 Deducted from asset accounts: Reserve for uncollectible accounts receivable $ $ $ (1) $ Reserve for franchisee notes receivable (1) Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets — $ $ $ $ Fiscal year ended December 28, 2014 Deducted from asset accounts: Reserve for uncollectible accounts receivable $ $ $ (1) $ Reserve for franchisee notes receivable (1) Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets — $ $ $ $ (1) Uncollectible accounts written off and reclassifications between accounts and notes receivable reserves.

Significant Accounting Polici32

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Papa John’s and its subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
Variable Interest Entity	Variable Interest Entity Papa John’s domestic restaurants, both Company-owned and franchised, participate in Papa John’s Marketing Fund, Inc. (PJMF), a nonstock corporation designed to operate at break-even for the purpose of designing and administering advertising and promotional programs for all participating domestic restaurants. PJMF is a variable interest entity (“VIE”) as it does not have sufficient equity to fund its operations without ongoing financial support and contributions from its members. Based on the ownership and governance structure and operating procedures of PJMF, we have determined that we do not have the power to direct the most significant activities of PJMF and are therefore not the primary beneficiary. Accordingly, consolidation of PJMF is not appropriate .
Fiscal Year	Fiscal Year Our fiscal year ends on the last Sunday in December of each year. All fiscal years presented consist of 52 weeks.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Significant items that are subject to such estimates and assumptions include allowance for doubtful accounts and notes receivable, intangible assets, online customer loyalty program obligation, insurance reserves and tax reserves. Although management bases its estimates on historical experience and assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, actual results could significantly differ from these estimates.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Retail sales from Company-owned restaurants and franchise royalties, which are based on a percentage of franchise restaurant sales, are recognized as revenues when the products are delivered to or carried out by customers. Franchise fees are recognized when a franchised restaurant begins operations, at which time we have performed our obligations related to such fees. Fees received pursuant to development agreements which grant the right to develop franchised restaurants in future periods in specific geographic areas are deferred and recognized on a pro rata basis as franchised restaurants subject to the development agreements begin operations. The Company offers various incentive programs for franchisees including royalty incentives, new restaurant opening (i.e. development incentives) and other various support initiatives. Royalties, franchise fees and commissary sales are reduced to reflect any incentives earned or granted under these programs that are in the form of discounts. Direct mail advertising discounts are also periodically offered. North America commissary and other sales are reduced to reflect these advertising discounts. Other development incentives for opening restaurants are offered in the form of Company equipment at no cost. This equipment is amortized over the term of the agreement, which is generally three years, and is recognized in general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of income. North America commissary and other sales are comprised of food, promotional items and supplies sold to franchised restaurants located in the United States and Canada and are recognized as revenue upon shipment of the related products to the franchisees. Fees for information services, including software maintenance fees, help desk fees and online ordering fees are recognized as revenue as such services are provided and are included in North America commissary and other sales. Insurance commissions are recognized as revenue over the term of the policy period and are included in North America commissary and other sales. International revenues are comprised of Company-owned restaurant sales, royalties, franchise fees and revenues for the production and distribution of food to international franchisees. Revenues are recognized consistently with the policies applied for revenues generated in the United States.
Advertising and Related Costs	Advertising and Related Costs Advertising and related costs of $70.9 million, $67.2 million and $63.5 million in 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively, include the costs of domestic Company-owned local restaurant activities such as mail coupons, door hangers and promotional items and contributions to PJMF and various local market cooperative advertising funds (“Co-op Funds”). Contributions by domestic Company-owned and franchised restaurants to PJMF and the Co-op Funds are based on an established percentage of monthly restaurant revenues. PJMF is responsible for developing and conducting marketing and advertising for the domestic Papa John’s system. The Co-op Funds are responsible for developing and conducting advertising activities in a specific market, including the placement of electronic and print materials developed by PJMF. We recognize domestic Company-owned restaurant contributions to PJMF and the Co-op Funds in which we do not have a controlling interest in the period in which the contribution accrues. The net assets of the Co-op Funds in which we possess majority voting rights, and thus control the cooperatives, are included in our consolidated balance sheets.
Leases	Leases Lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the expected life of the lease term. A lease term often includes option periods, available at the inception of the lease.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation Compensation expense for equity grants is estimated on the grant date, net of projected forfeitures, and is recognized over the vesting period (generally in equal installments over three years). Restricted stock is valued based on the market price of the Company’s shares on the date of grant. Stock options are valued using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. Our specific assumptions for estimating the fair value of options are included in Note 18.
Cash Equivalents	Cash Equivalents Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with maturity of three months or less at date of purchase. These investments are carried at cost, which approximates fair value.
Accounts Receivable	Accounts Receivable Substantially all accounts receivable are due from franchisees for purchases of food, paper products, restaurant equipment, printing and promotional items, risk management services, information systems and related services, and royalties. Credit is extended based on an evaluation of the franchisee’s financial condition and collateral is generally not required. A reserve for uncollectible accounts is established as deemed necessary based upon overall accounts receivable aging levels and a specific review of accounts for franchisees with known financial difficulties. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after recovery efforts have ceased.
Notes Receivable	Notes Receivable The Company provides financing to select franchisees principally for use in the construction and development of their restaurants and for the purchase of restaurants from the Company or other franchisees. Notes receivable bear interest at fixed or floating rates and are generally secured by the assets of each restaurant and the ownership interests in the franchise. We establish an allowance based on a review of each borrower’s economic performance and underlying collateral value. Note balances are charged off against the allowance after recovery efforts have ceased.
Inventories	Inventories Inventories, which consist of food products, paper goods and supplies, smallwares, and printing and promotional items, are stated at the lower of cost, determined under the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method, or market.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is recorded using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets (generally five to ten years for restaurant, commissary and other equipment, 20 to 40 years for buildings and improvements, and five years for technology and communication assets). Leasehold improvements are amortized over the terms of the respective leases, including the first renewal period (generally five to ten years). Depreciation expense was $39.7 million in 2016 and 2015, and $39.1 million in 2014.
Deferred Costs	Deferred Costs We defer certain information systems development and related costs that meet established criteria. Amounts deferred, which are included in property and equipment, are amortized principally over periods not exceeding five years beginning in the month subsequent to completion of the related information systems project. Total costs deferred were approximately $2.6 million in 2016 and 2015 and $3.3 million in 2014. The unamortized information systems development costs approximated $9.8 million and $9.1 million as of December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015, respectively.
Intangible Assets - Goodwill	Intangible Assets — Goodwill We evaluate goodwill annually in the fourth quarter or whenever we identify certain triggering events or circumstances that would more-likely-than-not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Such tests are completed separately with respect to the goodwill of each of our reporting units, which includes our domestic Company-owned restaurants, China and the United Kingdom (“PJUK”). We may perform a qualitative assessment or move directly to the quantitative assessment for any reporting unit in any period if we believe that it is more efficient or if impairment indicators exist. We elected to perform a qualitative assessment for our domestic Company-owned restaurants, China, and PJUK reporting units in 2016. As a result of our qualitative analyses, we determined that it was more-likely-than-not that the fair values of our reporting units were greater than their carrying amounts. This assessment excluded the goodwill allocated to assets held for sale in 2016 as it was separately evaluated. Subsequent to completing our goodwill impairment tests, no indications of impairment were identified.
Deferred Income Tax Accounts and Tax Reserves	Deferred Income Tax Accounts and Tax Reserves We are subject to income taxes in the United States and several foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in determining our provision for income taxes and the related assets and liabilities. The provision for income taxes includes income taxes paid, currently payable or receivable and those deferred. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities, and are measured using enacted tax rates and laws that are expected to be in effect when the differences reverse. Deferred tax assets are also recognized for the estimated future effects of tax attribute carryforwards (e.g., net operating losses, capital losses, and foreign tax credits). The effect on deferred taxes of changes in tax rates is recognized in the period in which the new tax is enacted. As a result, our effective tax rate may fluctuate. Valuation allowances are established when necessary on a jurisdictional basis to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts we expect to realize. Tax authorities periodically audit the Company. We record reserves and related interest and penalties for identified exposures as income tax expense. We evaluate these issues and adjust for events, such as statute of limitations expirations, court rulings or audit settlements, which may impact our ultimate payment for such exposures.
Insurance Reserves	Insurance Reserves Our insurance programs for workers’ compensation, owned and non-owned automobiles, general liability, property, and health insurance coverage provided to our employees are funded by the Company up to certain retention levels under our retention programs. Retention limits generally range from $100,000 to $1.0 million. Losses are accrued based upon undiscounted estimates of the liability for claims incurred using certain third-party actuarial projections and our claims loss experience. The estimated insurance claims losses could be significantly affected should the frequency or ultimate cost of claims differ significantly from historical trends used to estimate the insurance reserves recorded by the Company. See Note 12 for additional information on our insurance reserves.
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments We recognize all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. At inception and on an ongoing basis, we assess whether each derivative that qualifies for hedge accounting continues to be highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the hedged item. If the derivative meets the hedge criteria as defined by certain accounting standards, depending on the nature of the hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative are either offset against the change in fair value of assets, liabilities or firm commitments through earnings or recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL") until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of a derivative’s change in fair value, if any, is immediately recognized in earnings. We recognized income of $1.5 million ($0.9 million after tax) in 2016, a loss of $1.8 million ($1.2 million after tax) in 2015 and a loss of $261,000 ($164,000 after tax) in 2014, in AOCL for the net change in the fair value of our interest rate swaps. See Note 9 for additional information on our debt and credit arrangements.
Noncontrolling Interests	Noncontrolling Interests The Company has five joint ventures in which there are noncontrolling interests. Consolidated net income is required to be reported separately at amounts attributable to both the parent and the noncontrolling interest. Additionally, disclosures are required to clearly identify and distinguish between the interests of the parent company and the interests of the noncontrolling owners, including a disclosure on the face of the consolidated statements of income attributable to the noncontrolling interest holder. The following summarizes the redemption feature, location and related accounting within the consolidated balance sheets for these joint venture arrangements: Type of Joint Venture Arrangement Location within the Balance Sheets Recorded Value Joint venture with no redemption feature Permanent equity Carrying value Option to require the Company to purchase the noncontrolling interest - currently redeemable Temporary equity Redemption value* Option to require the Company to purchase the noncontrolling interest - not currently redeemable Temporary equity Carrying value *The change in redemption value is recorded as an adjustment to “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” and “Retained earnings” in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 6 for additional information regarding noncontrolling interests.
Foreign Currency Translation	Foreign Currency Translation The local currency is the functional currency for each of our foreign subsidiaries. Revenues and expenses are translated into U.S. dollars using monthly average exchange rates, while assets and liabilities are translated using year-end exchange rates. The resulting translation adjustments are included as a component of AOCL net of income taxes.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements Deferred Debt Issuance Costs In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Codification (“ASU”) 2015-03 “Interest – Imputation of Interest: Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs” (“ASU 2015-03”). The update required that deferred debt issuance costs be reported as a reduction to long-term debt (previously reported in other noncurrent assets). We adopted ASU 2015-03 in 2016 and for all retrospective periods, as required. The impact of the adoption was not material to our consolidated financial statements. Employee Share-Based Payments In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “Compensation – Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting” (“ASU 2016-09”). The guidance changes how companies account for certain aspects of share-based payment awards to employees, including the accounting for income taxes, an accounting policy election for forfeitures and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-09 is effective for the Company beginning in fiscal 2017. Based on the significance of our employee stock compensation program, we expect the adoption could have a material impact on our effective income tax rate and related earnings per share calculation in our consolidated statement of income, and our consolidated statement of cash flows, depending on the timing and intrinsic value of future award vesting and exercise activity. The Company has elected not to change our accounting policy for forfeitures and statutory tax withholding requirements. Leases In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases,” (“ASU 2016-02”) which amends leasing guidance by requiring companies to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all operating and capital leases (financing) with lease terms greater than twelve months. The lease liability will be equal to the present value of lease payments. The lease asset will be based on the lease liability, subject to adjustment, such as for initial direct costs. For income statement purposes, leases will continue to be classified as operating or capital (financing) with lease expense in both cases calculated substantially the same as under the prior leasing guidance. ASU 2016-02 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 (fiscal 2019 for the Company), and early adoption is permitted. The Company has not yet determined the effect of the adoption on its consolidated financial statements. Revenue from Contracts with Customers In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“ASU 2014-09”), a comprehensive new revenue recognition standard that will supersede nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). This update requires companies to recognize revenue at amounts that reflect the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services at the time of transfer. In doing so, companies will need to use more judgment and make more estimates than under existing guidance. Such estimates may include identifying performance obligations in the contract, estimating the amount of variable consideration to include in the transaction price and allocating the transaction price to each separate performance obligation. Companies can either apply a full retrospective adoption or a modified retrospective adoption. In March and April 2016, the FASB issued the following amendments to clarify the implementation guidance: ASU No. 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net) and ASU No. 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing. We are required to adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2018. We do not expect the adoption will significantly impact our recognition of revenue from Company-owned restaurants, commissary sales or our continuing royalties or other fees from franchisees that are based on a percentage of the franchise sales. We are continuing to evaluate the impact on other less significant transactions including our loyalty program and the timing of recognizing franchise and development fees. We are also currently evaluating the method of adoption and the impact adoption will have on our related financial statement disclosures.
Reclassification	Reclassification Certain prior year captions have been combined in the consolidated statements of income and certain amounts within the consolidated statements of cash flows have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

Significant Accounting Polici33

Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Significant Accounting Policies
Schedule of Joint Ventures in Which There are Noncontrolling Interests	The following summarizes the redemption feature, location and related accounting within the consolidated balance sheets for these joint venture arrangements: Type of Joint Venture Arrangement Location within the Balance Sheets Recorded Value Joint venture with no redemption feature Permanent equity Carrying value Option to require the Company to purchase the noncontrolling interest - currently redeemable Temporary equity Redemption value* Option to require the Company to purchase the noncontrolling interest - not currently redeemable Temporary equity Carrying value *The change in redemption value is recorded as an adjustment to “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” and “Retained earnings” in the consolidated balance sheets.

Earnings per Share (Tables)

Earnings per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Earnings per Share
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The calculations of basic earnings per common share and diluted earnings per common share for the years ended December 25, 2016, December 27, 2015 and December 28, 2014 are as follows (in thousands, except per share data): 2016 2015 2014 Basic earnings per common share: Net income attributable to the Company $ $ $ Change in noncontrolling interest redemption value Net income attributable to participating securities Net income attributable to common shareholders $ $ $ Weighted average common shares outstanding Basic earnings per common share $ $ $ Diluted earnings per common share: Net income attributable to common shareholders $ $ $ Weighted average common shares outstanding Dilutive effect of outstanding equity awards Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding Diluted earnings per common share $ $ $

Fair Value Measurements and D35

Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures
Schedule of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	Our financial assets and liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015 are as follows (in thousands): Carrying Fair Value Measurements Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 December 25, 2016 Financial assets: Cash surrender value of life insurance policies (a) $ $ $ — $ — Financial liabilities: Interest rate swaps (b) — — December 27, 2015 Financial assets: Cash surrender value of life insurance policies (a) $ $ $ — $ — Financial liabilities: Interest rate swaps (b) — — (a) Represents life insurance policies held in our non-qualified deferred compensation plan. (b) The fair value of our interest rate swaps are based on the sum of all future net present value cash flows. The future cash flows are derived based on the terms of our interest rate swaps, as well as considering published discount factors, and projected London Interbank Offered Rates (“LIBOR”).

Noncontrolling Interests (Table

Noncontrolling Interests (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Noncontrolling Interests
Schedule of Income Before Income Taxes Attributable to Joint Ventures	The income before income taxes attributable to these joint ventures for the years ended December 25, 2016, December 27, 2015 and December 28, 2014 were as follows (in thousands): 2016 2015 2014 Papa John’s International, Inc. $ $ $ Noncontrolling interests Total income before income taxes $ $ $
Summary of Changes in Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	The following summarizes changes in our redeemable noncontrolling interests in 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Balance at December 28, 2014 $ Net income Distributions Change in redemption value Balance at December 27, 2015 $ Net income Distributions Change in redemption value Balance at December 25, 2016 $

Acquisitions and Divestitures (

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Acquisition and Divestitures
Schedule of Acquired Restaurants	We acquired restaurants from our domestic franchisees in 2016, 2015 and 2014, which are summarized as follows : 2016 2015 2014 Number of restaurants acquired 25 7 13 Location of restaurants acquired Florida, Georgia North Carolina Georgia, Kentucky and Missouri and North Carolina Texas Colorado Illinois and Texas Purchase price (in thousands): Cash payment $ $ $ Cancellation of accounts and notes receivable — Total purchase price $ $ $ Final fair value allocation of purchase price (in thousands): Property and equipment $ $ $ Franchise rights Goodwill Other Total purchase price $ $ $
Schedule of Assets Classified as Held for Sale	The following summarizes the associated assets that are classified as held for sale (in thousands): December 25, 2016 December 27, 2015 Inventories $ $ Prepaid expenses Net property and equipment Goodwill — Other assets Valuation allowance — Total assets held for sale $ $

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Goodwill and Other Intangibles
Summary of Changes to the Company's Goodwill, by Reporting Segment	The following summarizes changes in the Company’s goodwill, by reporting segment (in thousands): Domestic Company- owned Restaurants International (a) All Others Total Balance as of December 28, 2014 $ Acquisitions (b) — — Reclassification to assets held for sale (c) — — Foreign currency adjustments — — Balance as of December 27, 2015 Acquisitions (d) — — Divestitures (e) — — Adjustment to assets held for sale (c) — — Foreign currency adjustments — — Balance as of December 25, 2016 $ $ $ $ (a) The international goodwill balances for all years presented are net of accumulated impairment of $2.3 million associated with our PJUK reporting unit, which was recorded in fiscal 2008. (b) Includes seven restaurants located in three domestic markets. (c) Represents goodwill associated with the Company-owned China market. The goodwill was reclassified to assets held for sale, along with the other associated assets, in 2015 using a relative fair value approach. Based on an updated fair value analysis, the goodwill allocation was updated in 2016 and adjusted accordingly. See Note 7 for additional information. (d) Includes 25 restaurants located in four domestic markets. (e) Includes 42 restaurants located in one domestic market.

Debt and Credit Arrangements (T

Debt and Credit Arrangements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Debt and Credit Arrangements
Schedule of Long-Term Debt, net	Long-term debt, net consists of the following (in thousands): December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Outstanding debt $ $ Debt issuance costs Total long-term debt, net $ $
Schedule of Interest Rate Swap Agreements	As of December 25, 2016, we have the following interest rate swap agreements, including three forward starting swaps executed in 2015 that will become effective in 2018 upon expiration of the two existing swaps for $125 million: Fixed Effective Dates Debt Amount Rates July 30, 2013 through April 30, 2018 $ million % December 30, 2014 through April 30, 2018 $ million % April 30, 2018 through April 30, 2023 $ million % April 30, 2018 through April 30, 2023 $ million % April 30, 2018 through April 30, 2023 $ million %
Schedule of Location and Amounts of Swaps in the Accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements	The following table provides information on the location and amounts of our swaps in the accompanying consolidated financial statements (in thousands): Liability Derivatives Fair Value Fair Value December 25, December 27, Balance Sheet Location 2016 2015 Interest rate swaps Other current and long-term liabilities $ $
Schedule of Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements	The effect of derivative instruments on the accompanying consolidated financial statements is as follows (in thousands): Amount of Gain Location of Gain or or (Loss) Location of Gain Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized Recognized in or (Loss) or (Loss) in Income on Income on Recognized in Reclassified Reclassified Derivative Derivative Derivatives- Cash AOCL on from AOCL into from AOCL into (Ineffective Portion (Ineffective Flow Derivative Income Income and Amount Portion and Amount Hedging (Effective (Effective (Effective Excluded from Excluded from Relationships Portion) Portion) Portion) Effectiveness Testing) Effectiveness Testing) Interest rate swaps: 2016 $ Interest expense $ Interest expense $ — 2015 $ Interest expense $ Interest expense $ — 2014 $ Interest expense $ Interest expense $ —

Net Property and Equipment (Tab

Net Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Net Property and Equipment
Schedule of Net Property and Equipment	Net property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands): December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Land $ $ Buildings and improvements Leasehold improvements Equipment and other Construction in progress Total property and equipment Accumulated depreciation and amortization Net property and equipment $ $

Notes Receivable (Tables)

Notes Receivable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Notes Receivable
Summary of Changes in Notes Receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	. The following summarizes changes in our notes receivable allowance for doubtful accounts (in thousands): Balance as of December 28, 2014 $ Recovered from costs and expenses Additions, net of notes written off Balance as of December 27, 2015 Recovered from costs and expenses Deductions, including notes written off Balance as of December 25, 2016 $

Insurance Reserves (Tables)

Insurance Reserves (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Insurance Reserves
Summary of Changes in Insurance Program Reserves	The following table summarizes changes in our insurance program reserves (in thousands): Balance as of December 28, 2014 $ Additions Payments Balance as of December 27, 2015 Additions Payments Balance as of December 25, 2016 $

Accrued Expenses and Other Cu43

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
Schedule of Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities	Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following (in thousands): December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Salaries, benefits and bonuses $ $ Insurance reserves, current Purchases Customer loyalty program Rent Marketing Deposits Utilities Consulting and professional fees Legal costs* Other Total $ $ * Includes a $12.3 million legal settlement in 2015 (See Note 17).

Other Long-term Liabilities (Ta

Other Long-term Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Other Long-term Liabilities
Schedule of Other Long-term Liabilities	Other long-term liabilities consist of the following (in thousands): December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Deferred compensation plan $ $ Insurance reserves Accrued rent Other Total $ $

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Income Taxes
Summary of the Provision for Income Taxes	A summary of the provision for income taxes follows (in thousands): 2016 2015 2014 Current: Federal $ $ $ Foreign State and local Deferred Total $ $ $
Schedule of Significant Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities)	Significant deferred tax assets (liabilities) follow (in thousands): December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Accrued liabilities $ $ Accrued bonuses Other assets and liabilities Equity awards Other Foreign net operating losses Foreign tax credit carryforwards — Total deferred tax assets Valuation allowance on foreign net operating and capital losses, foreign deferred tax assets, and foreign tax credit carryforwards Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances Deferred expenses Accelerated depreciation Goodwill Other Total deferred tax liabilities Net deferred liability $ $
Schedule of Reconciliation of Income Tax Computed at the U.S. Federal Statutory Rate to Income Tax Expense	The reconciliation of income tax computed at the U.S. federal statutory rate to income tax expense for the years ended December 25, 2016, December 27, 2015 and December 28, 2014 is as follows in both dollars and as a percentage of income before income taxes ($ in thousands): 2016 2015 2014 Income Tax Income Income Tax Income Income Tax Income Expense Tax Rate Expense Tax Rate Expense Tax Rate Tax at U.S. federal statutory rate $ % $ % $ % State and local income taxes % % % Foreign income taxes % % % Income of consolidated partnerships attributable to noncontrolling interests % % % Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (income) loss % % % Tax credits % % % Other % % % Total $ % $ % $ %
Schedule of Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Liability for Unrecognized Tax Benefits	The Company had $4.8 million of unrecognized tax benefits at December 25, 2016 of which, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending liability for unrecognized tax benefits excluding interest and penalties is as follows, which is recorded as an other long-term liability (in thousands): Balance at December 28, 2014 $ Additions for tax positions of current year Additions for tax positions of prior years Reductions for lapse of statute of limitations Balance at December 27, 2015 Additions for tax positions of current year Additions for tax positions of prior years Reductions for lapse of statute of limitations Balance at December 25, 2016 $

Related Party Transactions (Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Related Party Transactions
Summary of Full-Year Transactions and Year-End Balances with Franchisees Owned by Related Parties and PJMF	. Following is a summary of full-year transactions and year-end balances with PJMF and franchisees owned by related parties (in thousands): 2016 2015 2014 Revenues from affiliates: North America commissary sales and other sales $ $ $ North America franchise royalties and fees Total $ $ $ December 25, December 27, 2016 2015 Accounts receivable affiliates $ $ Accounts payable affiliates $ $ —

Litigation, Commitments and C47

Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies.
Schedule of Future Gross Lease Costs, Future Expected Sublease Payments and Net Lease Costs	Future lease costs and future expected sublease payments as of December 25, 2016, are as follows (in thousands): Future Expected Gross Lease Sublease Year Costs Payments 2017 $ $ 2018 2019 2020 2021 Thereafter Total $ $

Equity Compensation (Tables)

Equity Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Equity Compensation
Schedule of Information Pertaining to Option Activity	Information pertaining to option activity during 2016 is as follows (number of options and aggregate intrinsic value in thousands): Weighted Average Weighted Remaining Number Average Contractual Aggregate of Exercise Term Intrinsic Options Price (In Years) Value Outstanding at December 27, 2015 $ Granted Exercised Cancelled Outstanding at December 25, 2016 $ $ Exercisable at December 25, 2016 $ $
Summary of the Significant Assumptions Used in Estimating the Fair Value of Options Granted	The following is a summary of the significant assumptions used in estimating the fair value of options granted in 2016, 2015 and 2014: 2016 2015 2014 Assumptions (weighted average): Risk-free interest rate % % % Expected dividend yield % % % Expected volatility % % % Expected term (in years)
Schedule of Information Pertaining to Restricted Stock Activity	The fair value of both time-based restricted stock and performance-based restricted stock units is based on the market price of the Company’s shares on the grant date. Information pertaining to these awards during 2016 is as follows (shares in thousands): Weighted Average Grant-Date Shares Fair Value Total as of December 27, 2015 Granted Incremental Performance Shares* — — Forfeited Vested Total as of December 25, 2016 $ * No performance shares vested in 2016.

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Segment Information
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	Our segment information is as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Revenues from external customers: Domestic Company-owned restaurants $ $ $ North America commissaries North America franchising International All others Total revenues from external customers $ $ $ Intersegment revenues: North America commissaries $ $ $ North America franchising International All others Total intersegment revenues $ $ $ Depreciation and amortization: Domestic Company-owned restaurants $ $ $ North America commissaries International All others Unallocated corporate expenses Total depreciation and amortization $ $ $ Income (loss) before income taxes: Domestic Company-owned restaurants (1) $ $ $ North America commissaries North America franchising International (2) All others Unallocated corporate expenses (3) Elimination of intersegment profit Total income before income taxes $ $ $ (1) Includes an $11.6 million refranchising gain in 2016. See Note 7 for additional information. (2) Includes a $1.4 million impairment loss in 2016. See Note 7 for additional information. (3) Includes a ($900,000) million legal settlement in 2016 and a $12.3 million legal settlement in 2015. See Note 17 for additional information. (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Property and equipment: Domestic Company-owned restaurants $ $ $ North America commissaries International All others Unallocated corporate assets Accumulated depreciation and amortization Net property and equipment $ $ $ Expenditures for property and equipment: Domestic Company-owned restaurants $ $ $ North America commissaries International All others Unallocated corporate Total expenditures for property and equipment $ $ $

Quarterly Data - Unaudited, i50

Quarterly Data - Unaudited, in Thousands, except Per Share Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016
Quarterly Data - Unaudited, in Thousands, except Per Share Data
Schedule of Quarterly Select Financial Data	Our quarterly select financial data is as follows: Quarter 2016 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total revenues $ $ $ $ Operating income Net income attributable to the Company (a) Basic earnings per common share (a) $ $ $ $ Diluted earnings per common share (a) $ $ $ $ Dividends declared per common share $ $ $ $ Quarter 2015 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total revenues $ $ $ $ Operating income Net income attributable to the Company (b) Basic earnings per common share (b) $ $ $ $ Diluted earnings per common share (b) $ $ $ $ Dividends declared per common share $ $ $ $ (a) The fourth quarter of 2016 includes an after tax gain of $7.3 million and a favorable impact of $0.19 on basic and diluted EPS from the sale of a domestic Company-owned market to a franchisee, and an after tax loss of $900,000 and an unfavorable impact of $0.02 on basic and diluted EPS from an impairment charge related to our company-owned stores in China that are currently for sale. See Note 7 for additional information. The fourth quarter of 2016 also includes an after tax gain of $600,000 and favorable impact of $0.02 on basic and diluted EPS related to a legal settlement. See Note 17 for additional information. (b) The second quarter of 2015 includes an after tax legal settlement of $8.0 million and an unfavorable impact of $0.20 on basic and diluted earnings per share. See Note 17 for additional information.

Description of Business (Detail

Description of Business (Details)	Dec. 25, 2016item
Description of Business
Number of states in which the entity operates	50
Number of countries in which the entity operates	45

Significant Accounting Polici52

Significant Accounting Policies - Principles of Consolidation, Fiscal Year, Revenue Recognition and Advertising Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Significant accounting policies
Number of weeks in fiscal year	364 days
Advertising and related costs	$ 70.9	$ 67.2	$ 63.5
Maximum
Significant accounting policies
Amortization term of equipment incentives	3 years

Significant Accounting Polici53

Significant Accounting Policies - Stock-Based Compensation, PP&E, and Deferred Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Stock-Based Compensation
Vesting period	3 years
Property and Equipment
Depreciation expense	$ 39.7	$ 39.7	$ 39.1
Deferred Costs
Deferred costs, maximum amortization period	5 years
Deferred costs	$ 2.6	2.6	$ 3.3
Unamortized systems development costs	$ 9.8	$ 9.1
Restaurant, commissary and other equipment | Minimum
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful lives	5 years
Restaurant, commissary and other equipment | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful lives	10 years
Buildings and improvements | Minimum
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful lives	20 years
Buildings and improvements | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful lives	40 years
Technology and communication assets
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful lives	5 years
Leasehold improvements | Minimum
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful lives	5 years
Leasehold improvements | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Estimated useful lives	10 years

Significant Accounting Polici54

Significant Accounting Policies - Insurance Reserves and Derivatives (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Derivative Financial Instruments
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax	$ 1,492,000	$ (1,846,000)	$ (261,000)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	900,000	$ (1,200,000)	$ (164,000)
Minimum
Insurance Reserves
Employee insurance retention limit per occurrence	100,000
Maximum
Insurance Reserves
Employee insurance retention limit per occurrence	$ 1,000,000

Significant Accounting Polici55

Significant Accounting Policies - Noncontrolling Interests and Recent Accounting Pronouncements (Details)	Dec. 25, 2016item
Noncontrolling Interests
Number of joint ventures	5

Stockholders' Equity - Shares A

Stockholders' Equity - Shares Authorized and Outstanding (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Stockholders' Equity
Authorized shares of preferred stock	5,000
Authorized shares of common stock	100,000
Outstanding shares of common stock , net of repurchased stock	36,700	38,400
Preferred shares issued	0	0
Preferred shares outstanding	0	0

Stockholders' Equity - Share Re

Stockholders' Equity - Share Repurchase Program (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	2 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 14, 2017	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Common stock repurchase program
Share repurchase program
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount		$ 1,575
Stock repurchased during period, shares		2,100,000	1,800,000	2,600,000
Stock repurchased during period, value		$ 122.4	$ 119.8	$ 117.4
Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized amount	$ 129.9
Common stock repurchase program | Subsequent event
Share repurchase program
Stock repurchased during period, shares	86,801
Stock repurchased during period, value	$ 7.4
Common stock repurchase authorized December 2016
Share repurchase program
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount		$ 50

Stockholders' Equity - Cash Div

Stockholders' Equity - Cash Dividend (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Feb. 17, 2017	Feb. 06, 2017	Jan. 26, 2017	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014	Feb. 14, 2017
Cash Dividend
Dividends paid				$ 27,896	$ 24,844	$ 21,735
Quarterly dividend, date of record		Feb. 6, 2017
Quarterly dividend, date of distribution	Feb. 17, 2017
Quarterly dividend declared, per share (in dollars per share)							$ 0.20
Quarterly dividend declared							$ 7,400
Quarterly dividend, date of declaration			Jan. 26, 2017

Earnings per Share (Details)

Earnings per Share (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Sep. 25, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Jun. 26, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Mar. 27, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Sep. 27, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Jun. 28, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Mar. 29, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)item$ / sharesshares	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 28, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Earnings per Share
Number of joint ventures for which the increase in redemption value for the noncontrolling interest reduces income attributable to common shareholders | item									1
Basic earnings per common share:
Net income attributable to the Company | $	$ 32,630	$ 21,467	$ 22,541	$ 26,182	$ 24,695	$ 17,971	$ 10,780	$ 22,236	$ 102,820	$ 75,682	$ 73,315
Decrease (increase) in noncontrolling interest redemption value | $									567	65	(44)
Net income attributable to participating securities | $									(420)	(325)	(402)
Net income attributable to common shareholders | $									$ 102,967	$ 75,422	$ 72,869
Weighted average common shares outstanding | shares									37,253,000	39,458,000	40,960,000
Basic earnings per common share | $ / shares	$ 0.89	$ 0.57	$ 0.61	$ 0.69	$ 0.63	$ 0.46	$ 0.27	$ 0.56	$ 2.76	$ 1.91	$ 1.78
Diluted earnings per common share:
Net income attributable to common shareholders | $									$ 102,967	$ 75,422	$ 72,869
Weighted average common shares outstanding | shares									37,253,000	39,458,000	40,960,000
Dilutive effect of outstanding equity awards | shares									355,000	542,000	758,000
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding | shares									37,608,000	40,000,000	41,718,000
Diluted earnings per common share | $ / shares	$ 0.88	$ 0.57	$ 0.61	$ 0.69	$ 0.62	$ 0.45	$ 0.27	$ 0.55	$ 2.74	$ 1.89	$ 1.75
Weighted average antidilutive awards excluded from computation of earnings per share | shares									331,000	251,000	226,000

Fair Value Measurements and D60

Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Measurement of financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis
Impairment charge	$ 1,400
Transfers among levels within the fair value hierarchy	0	$ 0
China Operations
Measurement of financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis
Impairment charge	1,400
Measured on Recurring Basis | Level 1
Measurement of financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis
Cash surrender value of life insurance policies	21,690	17,916
Measured on Recurring Basis | Level 2
Measurement of financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis
Interest rate swap liabilities	770	2,262
Measured on Recurring Basis | Carrying Value
Measurement of financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis
Cash surrender value of life insurance policies	21,690	17,916
Interest rate swap liabilities	$ 770	$ 2,262

Noncontrolling Interests - Join

Noncontrolling Interests - Joint Ventures (Details)	Dec. 25, 2016restaurantitem	Dec. 27, 2015restaurant	Dec. 28, 2014restaurant
Minority Interest [Line Items]
Number of joint ventures | item	5
Joint ventures
Minority Interest [Line Items]
Number of Restaurants | restaurant	222	213	200

Noncontrolling Interests - Inco

Noncontrolling Interests - Income Before Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Minority Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interests	$ 6,272	$ 6,282	$ 4,382
Total income before income taxes	158,809	119,147	114,255
Joint ventures
Minority Interest [Line Items]
Papa John's International, Inc.	9,913	9,725	6,932
Noncontrolling interests	6,272	6,282	4,382
Total income before income taxes	$ 16,185	$ 16,007	$ 11,314

Noncontrolling Interests - Chan

Noncontrolling Interests - Changes in Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)item	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 28, 2014USD ($)
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
Number of joint ventures under which noncontrolling interest holders have the option to require the Company to purchase their interests | item	2
Changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 8,363
Net income	3,665	$ 3,873	$ 3,687
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(2,610)	(2,550)	(1,200)
Change in redemption value	(567)	(65)	44
Balance at the end of the period	8,461	8,363
Joint ventures
Changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests
Balance at the beginning of the period	8,363	8,555
Net income	3,665	3,873
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(3,000)	(4,000)
Change in redemption value	(567)	(65)
Balance at the end of the period	$ 8,461	$ 8,363	$ 8,555

Acquisitions and Divestitures -

Acquisitions and Divestitures - Acquisitions (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)restaurant	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)restaurant	Dec. 28, 2014USD ($)restaurant
Purchase price
Number of restaurants acquired | restaurant		7
Cash payment	$ 13,352	$ 922	$ 4,773
Fair value allocation of purchase price
Goodwill	$ 85,529	$ 79,657	$ 82,007
Multiple restaurants acquired
Purchase price
Number of restaurants acquired | restaurant	25	7	13
Cash payment	$ 13,352	$ 922	$ 4,773
Cancellation of accounts and notes receivable	406		412
Total purchase price	13,758	922	5,185
Fair value allocation of purchase price
Property and equipment	1,362	648	555
Franchise rights	2,092	113	844
Goodwill	10,166	152	3,661
Other	138	9	125
Total purchase price	$ 13,758	$ 922	$ 5,185

Acquisitions and Divestitures65

Acquisitions and Divestitures - Assets Held for Sale (Details)	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015restaurant	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)restaurant	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)restaurant	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 28, 2014USD ($)restaurant
Sale of restaurants
Number of Restaurants Sold | restaurant			42
Gain (loss) on assets transferred to held for sale			$ 11,600,000
Assets classified as held for sale
Inventories		$ 621,000	621,000
Prepaid expenses		517,000	517,000
Net property and equipment		4,767,000	4,767,000
Other assets		568,000	568,000
Valuation allowance		(216,000)	(216,000)
Total assets held for sale		$ 6,257,000	6,257,000	$ 9,299,000
Income statement disclosures related to operations held for sale
Reclassification to assets held for sale			979,000	(1,690,000)
Impairment charge			1,400,000
International
Income statement disclosures related to operations held for sale
Reclassification to assets held for sale			979,000	(1,690,000)
China Operations
Income statement disclosures related to operations held for sale
Reclassification to assets held for sale			979,000
Impairment charge			1,400,000
China Operations | International
Sale of restaurants
Gain (loss) on assets transferred to held for sale			0
Number of restaurants expects to be sold | restaurant	42
Assets classified as held for sale
Inventories				667,000
Prepaid expenses				672,000
Net property and equipment				5,571,000
Goodwill				1,690,000
Other assets				699,000
Total assets held for sale				9,299,000
Income statement disclosures related to operations held for sale
Income (loss) before income taxes			$ (2,300,000)	$ (1,200,000)	$ (3,400,000)
Impairment charge					$ 1,000,000
Number of restaurants for which impairment charges recorded | restaurant					11
Phoenix, AZ
Sale of restaurants
Number of Restaurants Sold | restaurant		42
Total consideration received		$ 16,800,000
Gain (loss) on assets transferred to held for sale		$ 11,600,000

Goodwill and Other Intangible66

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)restaurantitem	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)restaurantitem	Dec. 28, 2014USD ($)
Goodwill
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	$ 79,657,000	$ 82,007,000
Acquisitions	10,166,000	135,000
Divestitures	(2,481,000)
Reclassification to assets held for sale	979,000	(1,690,000)
Foreign currency adjustments	(2,792,000)	(795,000)
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$ 85,529,000	$ 79,657,000	$ 82,007,000
Number of restaurants acquired | restaurant		7
Number of domestic markets in which acquired restaurants | item		3
Number of restaurants sold | restaurant	42
Number of domestic markets in which restaurants sold | item	1
Goodwill impairment loss	$ 0	$ 0	0
Franchise Rights
Goodwill
Finite-lived intangible assets	2,400,000	700,000
Accumulated amortization	800,000	400,000
Amortization expense	400,000	200,000	200,000
China Operations
Goodwill
Reclassification to assets held for sale	979,000
Domestic Company-owned Restaurants
Goodwill
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	62,363,000	62,228,000
Acquisitions	10,166,000	135,000
Divestitures	(2,481,000)
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$ 70,048,000	62,363,000	62,228,000
Number of restaurants acquired | restaurant	25
Number of domestic markets in which acquired restaurants | item	4
International
Goodwill
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	$ 16,858,000	19,343,000
Reclassification to assets held for sale	979,000	(1,690,000)
Foreign currency adjustments	(2,792,000)	(795,000)
Goodwill, Ending Balance	15,045,000	16,858,000	19,343,000
Goodwill, accumulated impairment	2,300,000	2,300,000	2,300,000
All others
Goodwill
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	436,000	436,000
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$ 436,000	$ 436,000	$ 436,000

Debt and Credit Arrangements (D

Debt and Credit Arrangements (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)derivativeitem	Jun. 08, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 07, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)
Debt
Outstanding debt	$ 300,575			$ 256,000
Debt issuance costs	(755)			(854)
Total long-term debt, net	299,820			$ 255,146
Interest rate swap
Debt
Interest rate swap agreement, notional amount	$ 125,000
Number of derivatives held | item	2
Interest rate swap, July 2013 1.42% fixed
Debt
Interest rate swap agreement, fixed interest rate	1.42%
Interest rate swap agreement, notional amount	$ 75,000
Interest rate swap, December 2014 1.36% fixed
Debt
Interest rate swap agreement, fixed interest rate	1.36%
Interest rate swap agreement, notional amount	$ 50,000
Interest rate swap, April 2018, 2.33% fixed
Debt
Interest rate swap agreement, fixed interest rate	2.33%
Interest rate swap agreement, notional amount	$ 55,000
Interest rate swap, April 2018, 2.36% fixed
Debt
Interest rate swap agreement, fixed interest rate	2.36%
Interest rate swap agreement, notional amount	$ 35,000
Interest rate swap, April 2018, 2.34% fixed
Debt
Interest rate swap agreement, fixed interest rate	2.34%
Interest rate swap agreement, notional amount	$ 35,000
Forward starting swap
Debt
Number of additional derivatives executed | derivative	3
Revolving credit facility
Debt
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity		$ 500,000	$ 400,000
Line of credit facility, remaining availability	$ 172,600
Revolving credit facility | Minimum
Debt
Percentage of commitment fee on unused credit facility	0.15%
Revolving credit facility | Maximum
Debt
Percentage of commitment fee on unused credit facility	0.25%
Revolving credit facility | LIBOR | Minimum
Debt
Interest margin rate on debt	0.75%
Revolving credit facility | LIBOR | Maximum
Debt
Interest margin rate on debt	1.75%

Debt and Credit Arrangements -

Debt and Credit Arrangements - Interest Rate Swaps (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)item	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)
Not designated as a hedge
Debt and Credit Arrangements
Number of derivatives held	0
Interest rate swap
Debt and Credit Arrangements
Number of derivatives held	2
Interest rate swap | Other current and long-term Liabilities
Debt and Credit Arrangements
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments, fair value | $	$ 770	$ 2,262

Debt and Credit Arrangements 69

Debt and Credit Arrangements - Effect on Financial Statements (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Debt and Credit Arrangements
Weighted average interest rate for Credit Facility borrowings, including the impact of interest rate swaps	2.10%	2.00%	1.70%
Interest paid	$ 7,100,000	$ 5,300,000	$ 3,700,000
Interest rate swap
Debt and Credit Arrangements
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)	940,000	(1,163,000)	(164,000)
Interest rate swap liabilities	770,000
Interest expense | Interest rate swap
Debt and Credit Arrangements
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)	(1,161,000)	(1,563,000)	(996,000)
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)	0	$ 0	$ 0
Portion of derivative liability that would be reclassified into earnings	$ 391,000
Estimate of period of time over which portion of derivative liability would be reclassified into earnings	12 months

Net Property and Equipment (Det

Net Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property and equipment, gross	$ 617,357	$ 575,562
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(386,884)	(361,518)	$ (337,584)
Net property and equipment	230,473	214,044	$ 219,457
Land
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property and equipment, gross	34,009	32,795
Buildings and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property and equipment, gross	90,892	87,010
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property and equipment, gross	112,815	110,903
Equipment and other
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property and equipment, gross	357,242	333,884
Construction in progress
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property and equipment, gross	$ 22,399	$ 10,970

Notes Receivable - Loan Agreeme

Notes Receivable - Loan Agreement (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Notes Receivable
Loans outstanding, net of allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 13,600,000	$ 18,900,000
Interest income on franchisee loans	684,000	731,000	$ 658,000
Allowance for uncollectible notes receivable	$ 2,759,000	$ 3,653,000

Notes Receivable - Summary of C

Notes Receivable - Summary of Changes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Notes receivable
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 3,653
Balance at the end of the period	2,759	$ 3,653
Reserve for franchisee notes receivable
Notes receivable
Balance at the beginning of the period	3,653	3,132
Recovered from costs and expenses	(250)	(100)
Additions (deductions) including or net of notes written off	(644)	621
Balance at the end of the period	$ 2,759	$ 3,653

Insurance Reserves - Changes in

Insurance Reserves - Changes in Reserves (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Insurance Reserves
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 30,550	$ 25,411
Additions	42,508	39,272
Payments	(37,615)	(34,133)
Balance at the end of the period	$ 35,443	$ 30,550

Insurance Reserves - Letters of

Insurance Reserves - Letters of Credit (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)
Insurance Reserves
Total amount committed under letters of credit	$ 26.8

Accrued Expenses and Other Cu75

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)	Jan. 12, 2016	Jun. 28, 2015	Jun. 28, 2015	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Salaries, benefits and bonuses				$ 26,623,000	$ 24,124,000
Insurance reserves, current				16,993,000	13,382,000
Purchases				13,909,000	10,504,000
Customer loyalty program				3,339,000	2,734,000
Rent				3,073,000	1,940,000
Marketing				1,883,000	1,977,000
Deposits				1,771,000	2,953,000
Utilities				1,420,000	1,621,000
Consulting and professional fees				999,000	1,324,000
Legal costs				675,000	13,163,000
Other				6,104,000	7,196,000
Total				76,789,000	80,918,000
Balance sheet related disclosures
Legal settlement expense			$ 8,000,000	(898,000)	$ 12,278,000
Perrin v. Papa John's International, Inc. and Papa John's USA, Inc.
Balance sheet related disclosures
Legal settlement expense	$ (900,000)	$ 12,300,000		$ 900,000

Other Long-term Liabilities (De

Other Long-term Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Other Long-term Liabilities
Deferred compensation plan	$ 22,047	$ 18,483
Insurance reserves	18,450	17,168
Accrued rent	6,337	5,216
Other	6,259	6,739
Total	$ 53,093	$ 47,606

Income Taxes - Provision (Detai

Income Taxes - Provision (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Current:
Federal	$ 32,477	$ 36,077	$ 26,919
Foreign	2,669	4,183	2,368
State and local	2,947	3,169	2,849
Deferred:
Deferred (federal and state)	11,624	(6,246)	4,422
Total	$ 49,717	$ 37,183	$ 36,558

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Ass

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Deferred tax assets
Accrued liabilities	$ 14,479	$ 19,277
Accrued bonuses	5,399	4,621
Other assets and liabilities	12,434	11,488
Equity awards	7,704	6,866
Other	3,716	3,662
Foreign net operating losses	3,418	4,769
Foreign tax credit carryforwards	2,347
Total deferred tax assets	49,497	50,683
Valuation allowance on foreign net operating and capital losses, foreign deferred tax assets, and foreign tax credit carryforwards	(5,462)	(2,866)
Total deferred tax assets	44,035	47,817
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred expenses	(9,544)	(6,861)
Accelerated depreciation	(25,072)	(21,434)
Goodwill	(18,480)	(16,752)
Other	(217)	(4,965)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(53,313)	(50,012)
Net deferred liability	$ (9,278)	(2,195)
Other tax disclosures
Expiration term of foreign tax credit carryforwards	10 years
Valuation allowance	$ 5,462	2,866
Foreign tax authority
Other tax disclosures
Net operating loss carryovers	14,500	21,900
Valuation allowance related to net operating losses	3,100	$ 2,900
Foreign tax credit carryforwards
Deferred tax assets
Valuation allowance on foreign net operating and capital losses, foreign deferred tax assets, and foreign tax credit carryforwards	(2,300)
Other tax disclosures
Valuation allowance	$ 2,300

Income Taxes - Reconciliation (

Income Taxes - Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Income Tax Expense
Tax at U.S. federal statutory rate	$ 55,583,000	$ 41,702,000	$ 39,989,000
State and local income taxes	2,972,000	2,106,000	1,896,000
Foreign income taxes	3,143,000	2,432,000	2,368,000
Income of consolidated partnerships attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2,312,000)	(2,311,000)	(1,608,000)
Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (income) loss	(428,000)	218,000	(171,000)
Tax credits	(6,771,000)	(4,846,000)	(3,906,000)
Other	(2,470,000)	(2,118,000)	(2,010,000)
Total	$ 49,717,000	$ 37,183,000	$ 36,558,000
Income Tax Rate
Tax at U.S. federal statutory rate (as a percent)	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State and local income taxes (as a percent)	1.90%	1.80%	1.70%
Foreign income taxes (as a percent)	2.00%	2.00%	2.10%
Income of consolidated partnerships attributable to noncontrolling interests (as a percent)	(1.40%)	(1.90%)	(1.40%)
Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (income) loss (as a percent)	(0.30%)	0.20%	(0.20%)
Tax credits	(4.30%)	(4.10%)	(3.40%)
Other (as a percent)	(1.60%)	(1.80%)	(1.80%)
Total	31.30%	31.20%	32.00%
Income taxes paid	$ 35,100,000	$ 23,300,000	$ 27,000,000
Decrease in liability for unrecognized tax benefits resulting from finalization of current examinations and other issues in the next 12 months	$ 267,000

Income Taxes - Tax Benefits (De

Income Taxes - Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Income Taxes
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 5,670,000	$ 4,328,000
Additions for tax positions of current year	126,000	529,000
Additions for tax positions of prior years	183,000	2,005,000
Reductions for lapse of statute of limitations	(1,152,000)	(1,192,000)
Balance at the end of the period	4,827,000	5,670,000
Interest benefit included in income tax expense	278,000	217,000
Income tax expense, accrued interest and penalties	$ 544,000	$ 825,000

Related Party Transactions - Fr

Related Party Transactions - Franchisees (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Sep. 25, 2016	Jun. 26, 2016	Mar. 27, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Sep. 27, 2015	Jun. 28, 2015	Mar. 29, 2015	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Related party transactions
Total revenues	$ 439,619	$ 422,442	$ 422,964	$ 428,595	$ 416,816	$ 389,284	$ 398,991	$ 432,284	$ 1,713,620	$ 1,637,375	$ 1,598,149
Accounts receivable - affiliates	105				157				105	157
Franchisees owned by related parties and PJMF
Related party transactions
Commissary sales									2,620	2,730	3,161
Franchise royalties									413	394	385
Total revenues									3,033	3,124	$ 3,546
Accounts receivable - affiliates	105				$ 157				105	$ 157
Accounts payable - affiliates	$ 12								$ 12

Related Party Transactions - Fo

Related Party Transactions - Founder, Chairman and CEO and PJMF (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Transactions With Founder, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
Related party transactions
Cash paid for charter aircraft services	$ 732,000	$ 653,000	$ 770,000
Papa John's Marketing Fund (PJMF)
Related party transactions
Loyalty program reimbursement received	1,100,000	841,000	634,000
Other reimbursements received	$ 1,400,000	$ 1,400,000	$ 1,200,000

Litigation, Commitments and C83

Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies - Perrin (Details)	Jan. 12, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 28, 2015USD ($)stateplaintiffemployee	Jun. 28, 2015USD ($)stateplaintiffemployee	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)
Loss Contingency Information About Litigation Matters
Legal settlement expense | $			$ 8,000,000	$ (898,000)	$ 12,278,000
Perrin v. Papa John's International, Inc. and Papa John's USA, Inc.
Loss Contingency Information About Litigation Matters
Legal settlement expense | $	$ (900,000)	$ 12,300,000		$ 900,000
Pending Litigation | Perrin v. Papa John's International, Inc. and Papa John's USA, Inc.
Loss Contingency Information About Litigation Matters
Employees who opted into the class action (in number of employees) | employee		3,900	3,900
Potential class size (in number of employees) | employee		28,800	28,800
States which are granted motion for class certification (in number of states) | state		5	5
Plaintiffs added to case (in number of plaintiffs) | plaintiff		15,000	15,000

Litigation, Commitments and C84

Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies - Leases (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)item	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 28, 2014USD ($)
Lease disclosures
Total lease expense	$ 45	$ 36.2	$ 34.7
Payments received from sublease	$ 7.5	$ 6.5	$ 6.7
Office, retail and commissary space
Lease disclosures
Operating leases, average term in years	5 years
Number of renewals | item	1
Tractors and trailers
Lease disclosures
Operating leases, average term in years	7 years

Litigation, Commitments and C85

Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies - Future Lease Cost (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)
Contingencies
Gross Lease Costs, 2017	$ 40,978
Gross Lease Costs, 2018	37,135
Gross Lease Costs, 2019	30,415
Gross Lease Costs, 2020	22,497
Gross Lease Costs, 2021	16,424
Gross Lease Costs, Thereafter	54,413
Gross Lease Costs, Total	201,862
Future Expected Sublease Payments, 2017	6,099
Future Expected Sublease Payments, 2018	6,025
Future Expected Sublease Payments, 2019	6,271
Future Expected Sublease Payments, 2020	5,733
Future Expected Sublease Payments, 2021	5,447
Future Expected Sublease Payments, Thereafter	37,085
Future Expected Sublease Payments, Total	$ 66,660

Litigation, Commitments and C86

Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies - Capital Lease (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)lease
Loss Contingency Information About Litigation Matters
Contingent lease liability, number of domestic leases | lease	44
Estimated maximum amount of undiscounted payments for contingent lease liabilities	$ 4.1
Capital lease related to Industrial Revenue Bonds
Loss Contingency Information About Litigation Matters
Investments in Industrial Revenue Bonds	$ 80.2
Investments in Industrial Revenue Bonds, percent owned	100.00%

Equity Compensation (Details)

Equity Compensation (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Equity Compensation
Award vesting period, in years	3 years
Stock-based employee compensation expense	$ 10,100,000	$ 9,400,000	$ 8,700,000
Total income tax benefit recognized for share-based compensation arrangements	3,700,000	$ 3,500,000	$ 3,200,000
Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested option awards and restricted stock	8,400,000
Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested option awards and restricted stock, current	6,100,000
Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested option awards and restricted stock to be recognized in two years	2,100,000
Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested option awards and restricted stock to be recognized in three years	$ 250,000
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	478,000	441,000	759,000
Total intrinsic value of the options exercised	$ 18,600,000	$ 20,300,000	$ 25,300,000
Cash received upon exercise of stock options	7,060,000	5,197,000	5,837,000
Tax benefits realized upon the exercise of stock options	$ 6,900,000	$ 7,500,000	$ 9,400,000
Omnibus Incentive 2011 Plan
Equity Compensation
Shares of common stock authorized for issuance	6,500,000
Shares of common stock available for future issuance	6,500,000
Award vesting period, in years	3 years
Omnibus Incentive 2011 Plan | Minimum
Equity Compensation
Award expiration period, in years	10 years
Options
Equity Compensation
Award vesting period, in years	3 years
Options | Maximum
Equity Compensation
Award expiration period, in years	10 years	10 years	5 years

Equity Compensation - Options (

Equity Compensation - Options (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Equity Compensation
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	$ 7,060	$ 5,197	$ 5,837
Number of Options
Number of Options, Outstanding (in shares)	1,419,000
Number of Options, Granted (in shares)	403,000	330,000	293,000
Number of Options, Exercised (in shares)	(478,000)	(441,000)	(759,000)
Number of Options, Cancelled (in shares)	(28,000)
Number of Options, Outstanding (in shares)	1,316,000	1,419,000
Number of Options, Exercisable (in shares)	652,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 35.10
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Granted (in dollars per share)	59.35
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercised (in dollars per share)	22.57
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Cancelled (in dollars per share)	58.47
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Outstanding (in dollars per share)	46.58	$ 35.10
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 32.91
Options, Additional Disclosures
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term, Outstanding	7 years 6 months
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term, Exercisable	6 years 3 months 18 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding	$ 53,153
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Exercisable	$ 35,233

Equity Compensation - Fair Valu

Equity Compensation - Fair Value (Details) - Options	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Assumptions (weighted average):
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)	1.30%	1.60%	1.80%
Expected dividend yield (as a percent)	1.20%	0.90%	1.00%
Expected volatility (as a percent)	27.40%	28.50%	35.70%
Expected term (in years)	5 years 6 months	5 years 6 months	6 years

Equity Compensation - Vesting (

Equity Compensation - Vesting (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Equity Compensation
Award vesting period, in years	3 years
Weighted average grant-date fair values of options granted	$ 13.96	$ 16.93	$ 16.48
Options granted, shares	403,000	330,000	293,000
Options
Equity Compensation
Award vesting period, in years	3 years
Options | Maximum
Equity Compensation
Award expiration period, in years	10 years	10 years	5 years

Equity Compensation - RSU's (De

Equity Compensation - RSU's (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014	Feb. 14, 2017
Equity Compensation
Dividends declared to holders of time-based restricted stock (in dollars per share)				$ 0.20
Award vesting period, in years	3 years
Restricted Stock
Equity Compensation
Restricted Shares, Granted	99,000
Time based restricted stock
Equity Compensation
Restricted Shares, Granted	85,000	76,000	89,000
Dividends declared to holders of time-based restricted stock (in dollars)	$ 117,000	$ 110,000	$ 128,000
Dividends declared to holders of time-based restricted stock (in dollars per share)	$ 0.75	$ 0.63	$ 0.53
Award vesting period, in years	3 years	3 years	3 years
Performance based restricted stock units | Executive Management
Equity Compensation
Restricted Shares, Granted	14,000	12,000	17,000
Award vesting period, in years	3 years

Equity Compensation - RSU Rollf

Equity Compensation - RSU Rollforward (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016$ / sharesshares
Restricted Stock
Shares
Restricted Shares, Beginning Balance	184,000
Restricted Shares, Granted	99,000
Restricted Shares, Forfeited	(7,000)
Restricted Shares, Vested	(91,000)
Restricted Shares, Ending Balance	185,000
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value, Beginning Balance (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 51.21
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value, Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	59.57
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value, Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	58.80
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value, Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	43.35
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value, Ending Balance (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 59.21
Performance based restricted stock units
Shares
Restricted Shares, Vested	0

Employee Benefit Plans (Details

Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Employee Benefit Plans
Deferred compensation plan assets, noncurrent	$ 21,700,000	$ 17,900,000
Deferred compensation liability classified, noncurrent	$ 22,047,000	$ 18,483,000
Employer discretionary matching contribution made to 401(k) plan and non-qualified deferred compensation plan, percentage	3.00%	3.00%	1.50%
Maximum employee contribution percentage eligible for employer match	6.00%	6.00%	6.00%
Costs of 401(k) plan and non-qualified deferred compensation plan	$ 2,600,000	$ 1,500,000	$ 734,000

Segment Information - Concentra

Segment Information - Concentration (Details)	Dec. 25, 2016entity
Consolidated revenues
Major customers disclosures
Concentration risk, number	0

Segment Information - Schedule

Segment Information - Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment (Details)	Jan. 12, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 28, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 25, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 26, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 27, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 28, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 29, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)entity	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)entity	Dec. 28, 2014USD ($)entity
Segment Information
Reportable segments, number | entity											5	5	5
Revenues			$ 439,619,000	$ 422,442,000	$ 422,964,000	$ 428,595,000	$ 416,816,000	$ 389,284,000	$ 398,991,000	$ 432,284,000	$ 1,713,620,000	$ 1,637,375,000	$ 1,598,149,000
Depreciation and amortization											40,987,000	40,307,000	39,965,000
Income before income taxes											158,809,000	119,147,000	114,255,000
Property and equipment, gross			617,357,000				575,562,000				617,357,000	575,562,000
Accumulated depreciation and amortization			(386,884,000)				(361,518,000)				(386,884,000)	(361,518,000)	(337,584,000)
Net property and equipment			230,473,000				214,044,000				230,473,000	214,044,000	219,457,000
Expenditures for property and equipment											55,554,000	38,972,000	48,655,000
Gain on refranchising											11,600,000
Impairment charge											1,400,000
Legal settlement expense									$ 8,000,000		(898,000)	12,278,000
Perrin v. Papa John's International, Inc. and Papa John's USA, Inc.
Segment Information
Legal settlement expense	$ (900,000)	$ 12,300,000									900,000
Domestic Company-owned restaurants
Segment Information
Revenues											815,931,000	756,307,000	701,854,000
North America franchising
Segment Information
Revenues											102,980,000	96,056,000	90,169,000
International
Segment Information
Revenues											113,103,000	104,691,000	102,455,000
Operating segments | Domestic Company-owned restaurants
Segment Information
Revenues											815,931,000	756,307,000	701,854,000
Depreciation and amortization											16,028,000	14,841,000	13,829,000
Income before income taxes											75,136,000	56,452,000	40,969,000
Property and equipment, gross			225,081,000				223,246,000				225,081,000	223,246,000	208,488,000
Expenditures for property and equipment											16,257,000	14,631,000	23,475,000
Operating segments | North America commissaries
Segment Information
Revenues											623,883,000	615,610,000	629,492,000
Depreciation and amortization											6,027,000	6,205,000	6,776,000
Income before income taxes											46,325,000	44,721,000	39,317,000
Property and equipment, gross			128,469,000				110,344,000				128,469,000	110,344,000	107,992,000
Expenditures for property and equipment											14,164,000	3,924,000	5,756,000
Operating segments | North America franchising
Segment Information
Revenues											102,980,000	96,056,000	90,169,000
Income before income taxes											91,669,000	83,315,000	77,009,000
Operating segments | International
Segment Information
Revenues											113,103,000	104,691,000	102,455,000
Depreciation and amortization											2,188,000	2,935,000	3,903,000
Income before income taxes											11,408,000	10,891,000	7,250,000
Property and equipment, gross			15,673,000				14,826,000				15,673,000	14,826,000	25,443,000
Expenditures for property and equipment											4,390,000	4,540,000	1,708,000
Operating segments | All others
Segment Information
Revenues											57,723,000	64,711,000	74,179,000
Depreciation and amortization											3,830,000	4,829,000	6,156,000
Income before income taxes											1,467,000	845,000	(9,000)
Property and equipment, gross			55,586,000				47,481,000				55,586,000	47,481,000	46,013,000
Expenditures for property and equipment											7,897,000	4,701,000	5,906,000
Elimination
Segment Information
Revenues											256,444,000	241,870,000	245,977,000
Income before income taxes											(2,405,000)	(1,181,000)	(841,000)
Elimination | North America commissaries
Segment Information
Revenues											236,896,000	224,067,000	220,406,000
Elimination | North America franchising
Segment Information
Revenues											2,869,000	2,690,000	2,400,000
Elimination | International
Segment Information
Revenues											269,000	292,000	320,000
Elimination | All others
Segment Information
Revenues											16,410,000	14,821,000	22,851,000
Unallocated corporate
Segment Information
Depreciation and amortization											12,914,000	11,497,000	9,301,000
Income before income taxes											(64,791,000)	(75,896,000)	(49,440,000)
Property and equipment, gross			$ 192,548,000				$ 179,665,000				192,548,000	179,665,000	169,105,000
Expenditures for property and equipment											$ 12,846,000	$ 11,176,000	$ 11,810,000

Quarterly Data - Unaudited, i96

Quarterly Data - Unaudited, in Thousands, except Per Share Data (Details)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Sep. 25, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Jun. 26, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Mar. 27, 2016USD ($)$ / shares	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Sep. 27, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Jun. 28, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Mar. 29, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	Dec. 25, 2016USD ($)item$ / shares	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)item$ / shares	Dec. 28, 2014USD ($)$ / shares
Quarterly Data - Unaudited, in Thousands, except Per Share Data
Total revenues | $	$ 439,619,000	$ 422,442,000	$ 422,964,000	$ 428,595,000	$ 416,816,000	$ 389,284,000	$ 398,991,000	$ 432,284,000	$ 1,713,620,000	$ 1,637,375,000	$ 1,598,149,000
Operating income | $	51,411,000	33,383,000	36,831,000	42,898,000	40,229,000	27,437,000	30,996,000	37,645,000	164,523,000	136,307,000	117,630,000
Net income attributable to the Company | $	$ 32,630,000	$ 21,467,000	$ 22,541,000	$ 26,182,000	$ 24,695,000	$ 17,971,000	$ 10,780,000	$ 22,236,000	$ 102,820,000	$ 75,682,000	$ 73,315,000
Basic earnings per common share | $ / shares	$ 0.89	$ 0.57	$ 0.61	$ 0.69	$ 0.63	$ 0.46	$ 0.27	$ 0.56	$ 2.76	$ 1.91	$ 1.78
Diluted earnings per common share | $ / shares	0.88	0.57	0.61	0.69	0.62	0.45	0.27	0.55	2.74	1.89	1.75
Dividends declared per common share | $ / shares	$ 0.200	$ 0.200	$ 0.175	$ 0.175	$ 0.175	$ 0.175	$ 0.140	$ 0.140	$ 0.75	$ 0.63	$ 0.53
Number of weeks in quarter | item									13	13
After tax gain from the sale of a domestic Company-owned market to a franchisee | $	$ 7,300,000
Impact on basic and diluted EPS from the sale of a domestic Company-owned market to a franchisee | $ / shares	$ 0.19
After tax loss from impairment related to company-owned stores in China currently for sale | $	$ 900,000
Unfavorable impact on basic and diluted EPS from impairment related to Company-owned stores in China currently for sale | $ / shares	$ 0.02
After tax gain related to a legal settlement | $	$ 600,000
Favorable impact on basic and diluted EPS related to a legal settlement | $ / shares	$ 0.02
Tax legal settlement expense | $							$ 8,000,000		$ (898,000)	$ 12,278,000
Impact on basic and diluted earnings per share due to legal settlement expense | $ / shares							$ (0.20)

Schedule II - Valuation and Q97

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves
Balance at Beginning of Year	$ 8,966	$ 9,878	$ 15,387
Charged to costs and expenses	658	1,166
Recovered from costs and expenses			(2,955)
Additions	83
Deductions		(2,078)	(2,554)
Balance at End of Year	9,707	8,966	9,878
Reserve for uncollectible accounts receivable
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves
Balance at Beginning of Year	2,447	3,814	4,318
Charged to costs and expenses	659	1,332	2,297
Deductions	(1,620)	(2,699)	(2,801)
Balance at End of Year	1,486	2,447	3,814
Reserve for franchisee notes receivable
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves
Balance at Beginning of Year	3,653	3,132	3,387
Recovered from costs and expenses	(250)	(100)	(502)
Additions		621	247
Deductions	(644)
Balance at End of Year	2,759	3,653	3,132
Valuation allowance on foreign net operating losses
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves
Balance at Beginning of Year	2,866	2,932	7,682
Charged to costs and expenses	249
Recovered from costs and expenses		(66)	(4,750)
Additions	2,347
Balance at End of Year	$ 5,462	$ 2,866	$ 2,932