UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q (Mark one) [X] Quarterly report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the quarterly period ended September 29, 2004 or [ ] Transition report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the transition period from ______ to _______ Commission file number 0-18051 DENNY'S CORPORATION - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Delaware 13-3487402 - ------------------------------- ------------------------------- (State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer incorporation or organization) Identification No.) 203 East Main Street Spartanburg, South Carolina 29319-0001 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) (864) 597-8000 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Registrant's telephone number, including area code) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report) Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ] Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [ ] No [X] As of November 1, 2004, 89,856,916 shares of the registrant's common stock, par value $.01 per share, were outstanding. 1 PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION Item 1. Financial Statements Denny's Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) Quarter Ended ------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ (In thousands, except per share amounts) <s> <c> <c> Revenue: Company restaurant sales $ 224,330 $ 215,573 Franchise and license revenue 22,815 22,817 --------- --------- Total operating revenue 247,145 238,390 --------- --------- Costs of company restaurant sales: Product costs 58,328 56,215 Payroll and benefits 91,929 91,080 Occupancy 12,850 12,296 Other operating expenses 30,913 31,354 --------- --------- Total costs of company restaurant sales 194,020 190,945 Costs of franchise and license revenue 6,948 6,801 General and administrative expenses 16,727 11,982 Depreciation and amortization 13,529 15,254 Restructuring charges and exit costs 1,080 70 Impairment charges 195 1,190 Gains on disposition of assets and other, net (998) (778) --------- --------- Total operating costs and expenses 231,501 225,464 --------- --------- Operating income 15,644 12,926 --------- --------- Other expenses: Interest expense, net 17,556 18,990 Other nonoperating expense (income), net 9,699 (57) --------- --------- Total other expenses, net 27,255 18,933 --------- --------- Loss before income taxes (11,611) (6,007) Provision for income taxes 202 266 --------- --------- Net loss $ (11,813) $ (6,273) ========= ========= Per share amounts: Basic and diluted net loss per share $ (0.14) $ (0.15) ========= ========= Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic and diluted 86,614 40,743 ========== ========= See accompanying notes 2 Denny's Corporation Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) Three Quarters Ended --------------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ (In thousands, except per share amounts) <s> <c> <c> Revenue: Company restaurant sales $ 649,998 $ 623,474 Franchise and license revenue 66,283 65,817 --------- --------- Total operating revenue 716,281 689,291 --------- --------- Cost of company restaurant sales: Product costs 167,764 158,298 Payroll and benefits 270,205 271,775 Occupancy 37,540 36,343 Other operating expenses 88,118 88,185 --------- --------- Total costs of company restaurant sales 563,627 554,601 Costs of franchise and license revenue 21,165 20,071 General and administrative expenses 46,136 38,229 Depreciation and amortization 41,941 43,931 Restructuring charges and exit costs 666 (866) Impairment charges 692 1,889 Gains on disposition of assets and other, net (1,230) (5,647) --------- --------- Total operating costs and expenses 672,997 652,208 --------- --------- Operating income 43,284 37,083 --------- --------- Other expenses: Interest expense, net 56,481 57,196 Other nonoperating expense (income), net 9,635 (177) --------- --------- Total other expenses, net 66,116 57,019 --------- --------- Loss before income taxes (22,832) (19,936) Provision for income taxes 609 796 --------- --------- Net loss $ (23,441) $ (20,732) ========== ========= Per share amounts: Basic and diluted net loss per share: $ (0.42) $ (0.51) ========== ========= Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic and diluted 56,312 40,666 ========== ========= See accompanying notes 3 Denny's Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) September 29, 2004 December 31, 2003 ------------------ ----------------- (In thousands) <s> <c> <c> Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 27,342 $ 7,363 Receivables, net 7,768 9,771 Inventories 8,235 8,158 Other current assets 8,220 6,965 --------- -------- Total Current Assets 51,565 32,257 --------- -------- Property, net 283,901 296,995 Other Assets: Restricted cash 216,423 --- Goodwill 50,404 50,404 Intangible assets, net 78,900 83,879 Deferred financing costs, net 17,897 9,887 Other assets 30,583 33,230 --------- --------- Total Assets $ 729,673 $ 506,652 ========= ========= Liabilities Current Liabilities: Current maturities of notes and debentures $ 410 $ 51,714 Current maturities of capital lease obligations 3,338 3,462 Accounts payable 35,012 40,617 Other current liabilities 92,817 96,932 --------- --------- Total Current Liabilities 131,577 192,725 --------- --------- Long-Term Liabilities: Notes and debentures, less current maturities 733,345 509,593 Capital lease obligations, less current maturities 27,708 28,728 Liability for insurance claims 26,281 25,585 Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits 56,985 62,953 --------- --------- Total Long-Term Liabilities 844,319 626,859 --------- --------- Total Liabilities 975,896 819,584 Total Shareholders' Deficit (246,223) (312,932) --------- --------- Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Deficit $ 729,673 $ 506,652 ========= ========= See accompanying notes 4 Denny's Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Deficit (Unaudited) Accumulated Additional Other Total Common Stock Paid-in Accumulated Comprehensive Shareholders' Shares Amount Capital Deficit Loss Deficit ------ ------ ------- ------- ---- ------- (In thousands) <s> <c> <c> <c> <c> <c> <c> Balance, December 31, 2003 41,003 $ 410 $ 417,816 $ (713,216) $ (17,942) $ (312,932) ------ ---- -------- ---------- --------- ---------- Net loss --- --- --- (23,441) --- (23,441) Equity issuance 48,430 484 89,311 --- --- 89,795 Exercise of common stock options 424 5 350 --- --- 355 ------ ---- -------- ---------- --------- ---------- Balance, September 29, 2004 89,857 $ 899 $ 507,477 $ (736,657) $ (17,942) $ (246,223) ====== ==== ======== ========== ========= ========== See accompanying notes 5 Denny's Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Three Quarters Ended -------------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ (In thousands) <s> <c> <c> Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Net loss $ (23,441) $ (20,732) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash flows provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 41,941 43,931 Impairment charges 692 1,889 Restructuring charges and exit costs 666 (866) Recognition of deferred gains --- (2,644) Amortization of deferred financing costs 4,665 3,753 Gains on disposition of assets and other, net (1,230) (5,647) Amortization of debt premium (1,369) (1,219) Loss on early extinguishment of debt 9,695 --- Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions: Decrease (increase) in assets: Receivables 2,099 4,494 Inventories (77) (510) Other current assets (1,255) (1,732) Other assets (994) (1,663) Increase (decrease) in liabilities: Accounts payable (3,180) (4,195) Accrued salaries and vacations 5,122 1,677 Accrued taxes 961 2,558 Other current liabilities (13,759) (13,055) Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits (4,793) (1,840) --------- -------- Net cash flows provided by operating activities 15,743 4,199 --------- -------- Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Purchase of property (22,152) (22,965) Proceeds from disposition of property 2,111 16,323 Change in restricted cash (216,423) --- --------- -------- Net cash flows used in investing activities (236,464) (6,642) --------- -------- See accompanying notes 6 Denny's Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Continued (Unaudited) Three Quarters Ended -------------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ (In thousands) <s> <c> <c> Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Net borrowings under credit agreements $ 293,900 $ 16,300 Long-term debt payments (122,274) (3,356) Deferred financing costs paid (13,054) (2,137) Debt retirement costs (7,313) --- Proceeds from exercise of stock options 355 --- Proceeds from equity issuance, net 90,044 --- Net bank overdrafts (958) (10,280) --------- --------- Net cash flows provided by financing activities 240,700 527 --------- --------- Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 19,979 (1,916) Cash and Cash Equivalents at: Beginning of period 7,363 5,717 --------- --------- End of period $ 27,342 $ 3,801 ========= ========= See accompanying notes 7 Denny's Corporation and Subsidiaries Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements September 29, 2004 (Unaudited) Note 1. General ------- Denny's Corporation, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Denny's Holdings, Inc., or Denny's Holdings, and Denny's, Inc., owns and operates the Denny's restaurant brand, or Denny's. Our consolidated financial statements are unaudited and include all adjustments we believe are necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations for such interim periods. All such adjustments are of a normal and recurring nature. These interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2003 and the related Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, both of which are contained in our 2003 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The results of operations for the quarter ended September 29, 2004 are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire fiscal year ending December 29, 2004. Note 2. Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs ------------------------------------ Restructuring charges and exit costs consist primarily of severance and outplacement costs for terminated employees and the costs of future obligations related to closed units. In assessing the discounted liabilities for future costs related to units closed or identified for closure prior to December 26, 2002, the date we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 146 "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities," or SFAS 146, we make assumptions regarding the timing of units' closures, amounts of future subleases, amounts of future property taxes and costs of closing the units. If these assumptions or their related estimates change in the future, we may be required to record additional exit costs or reduce exit costs previously recorded. Exit costs recorded for each of the periods presented include the effect of such changes in estimates. As a result of the adoption of SFAS 146, discounted liabilities for future lease costs net of the fair value of related subleases of units closed after December 25, 2002 are recorded when the unit is closed. All other costs related to unit closures, including property taxes and maintenance related costs, are expensed as incurred. Restructuring charges and exit costs were comprised of the following: Quarter Ended Three Quarters Ended ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ ------------------ ------------------ (In thousands) <s> <c> <c> <c> <c> Exit costs $ 964 $ 13 $ 439 $ (1,512) Severance and other restructuring charges 116 57 227 646 ---------- --------- ---------- ----------- Total restructuring and exit costs $ 1,080 $ 70 $ 666 $ (866) ========== ========= ========== =========== The components of the change in accrued exit cost liabilities are as follows: (In thousands) Balance, December 31, 2003 $ 13,044 Provisions for units closed in 2004 280 Change in estimates of accrued exit costs, net 159 Payments, net (3,768) Interest accretion 1,024 ----------- Balance, September 29, 2004 $ 10,739 =========== 8 Estimated net cash payments related to exit cost liabilities in the next five years are as follows: (In thousands) Remainder of 2004 $ 848 2005 2,219 2006 1,784 2007 1,511 2008 1,407 Thereafter 8,539 ----------- Total 16,308 Less imputed interest 5,569 ----------- Present value of exit cost liabilities $ 10,739 =========== Note 3. Refinancing Transactions ------------------------ During the third and fourth quarters of 2004, we completed a series of recapitalization transactions intended to reduce interest expense, extend debt maturities and increase our financial flexibility. The recapitalization consisted of the transactions and the use of proceeds therefrom as described below, which we refer to collectively as the "Refinancing Transactions": Private Placement In July 2004, Denny's Corporation received net proceeds of approximately $89.8 million from a private placement of 48.4 million shares of our common stock at a price of $1.90 per share (the "Private Placement"). The proceeds are net of $2.2 million of direct costs related to the Private Placement, $0.2 million of which were included in other accrued expenses at September 29, 2004. New Credit Facilities On September 21, 2004, our subsidiaries, Denny's, Inc. and Denny's Realty, Inc. (the "Borrowers"), entered into new senior secured credit facilities in an aggregate principal amount of $420 million. The new credit facilities consist of a first lien facility and a second lien facility. The new first lien facility consists of a $225 million five-year term loan facility (the "Term Loan Facility") and a $75 million four-year revolving credit facility, of which $45 million is available for the issuance of letters of credit (the "Revolving Facility" and together with the Term Loan Facility, the "New First Lien Facility"). The second lien facility consists of an additional $120 million six-year term loan facility (the "Second Lien Facility," and together with the New First Lien Facility, the "New Credit Facilities"). The Second Lien Facility ranks pari passu with the New First Lien Facility in right of payment, but is in a second lien position with respect to the collateral securing the New First Lien Facility. The New Credit Facilities are secured by substantially all of our assets and guaranteed by Denny's Corporation, Denny's Holdings and all of their subsidiaries. The Term Loan Facility will mature on September 30, 2009 and will amortize in equal quarterly installments of $0.6 million (commencing March 31, 2005) with all remaining amounts due on the maturity date. The Revolving Facility will mature on September 30, 2008. The Second Lien Facility will mature on September 30, 2010 with no amortization of principal prior to the maturity date. The interest rates under the New First Lien Facility are as follows: At the option of the Borrowers, Adjusted LIBOR plus a spread of 3.25% per annum (3.50% per annum for the Revolving Facility) or ABR (the Alternate Base Rate, which is the highest of the Bank of America Prime Rate and the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 1/2 of 1%) plus a spread of 1.75% per annum (2.0% per annum for the Revolving Facility). The interest rate on the Second Lien Facility, at the Borrower's option, is Adjusted LIBOR plus a spread of 5.125% per annum or ABR plus a spread of 3.625% per annum. 9 Denny's Corporation will be required to make mandatory prepayments under certain circumstances and may make certain optional prepayments under the New Credit Facilities. It may be assessed a prepayment premium upon optional or certain mandatory prepayments. The New Credit Facilities include negative covenants that are usual for facilities and transactions of this type and substantially similar to those that were contained in the prior credit facility, including but not limited to limitations on dividends on capital stock; limitations of redemptions and repurchases of capital stock; limitations on prepayments, redemptions and repurchases of debt; limitations on liens, sale-leaseback transactions, loans, investments, debt (including hedging and other derivative agreements), operating leases, mergers, acquisitions and asset sales; limitations on transactions with affiliates; limitations on restrictions on liens and other restrictive agreements; limitations on changes in business conducted by Denny's Corporation, the borrowers and the subsidiaries of Denny's Corporation; limitations on assets of Denny's Corporation and Denny's Holdings; restrictions on changing fiscal year, accounting policies, and organizational, debt and other material agreements. The New Credit Facilities include the following financial covenants (as defined in the credit agreements governing the New Credit Facilities ("Credit Agreements"): (a) a maximum total debt to EBITDA ratio, (b) a maximum senior secured debt to EBITDA ratio, (c) a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio, and (d) limitations on capital expenditures. The New Credit Facilities include events of default that are usual for facilities and transactions of this type. In addition, an event of default will result on the date that is six months prior to the maturity date of any senior or subordinated notes of Denny's Corporation, Denny's Holdings, the borrowers or any of their subsidiaries that mature prior to the latest maturity date of any of the New Credit Facilities, from the failure to repay or refinance the aggregate amount of any such senior or subordinated notes outstanding in excess of $25,000,000, or amend the maturity thereof to a date at least six months after the maturity date of such New Credit Facilities. We were in compliance with the covenants in the Credit Agareements at September 29, 2004. At September 29, 2004, we had outstanding letters of credit of $39.6 million under our Revolving Facility, leaving net availability of $35.4 million. There were no revolving loans outstanding at September 29, 2004. Through September 29, 2004, we incurred approximately $13.5 million of deferred financing costs related to the New Credit Facilities, $0.4 million of which were included in other accrued liabilities at September 29, 2004. Senior Notes Offering On October 5, 2004, subsequent to the end of the third quarter, Denny's Holdings issued $175 million aggregate principal amount of Denny's Holdings' 10% Senior Notes due 2012 (the "10% Notes"). The 10% Notes are irrevocably, fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a senior basis by Denny's Corporation. The 10% Notes are general, unsecured senior obligations of Denny's Holdings, and rank equal in right of payment to all existing and future indebtedness and other obligations that are not, by their terms, expressly subordinated in right of payment to the notes; rank senior in right of payment to all existing and future subordinated indebtedness; and are effectively subordinated to all existing and future secured debt to the extent of the value of the assets securing such debt and structurally subordinated to all indebtedness and other liabilities of the subsidiaries of Denny's Holdings, including the New Credit Facilities. The 10% Notes bear interest at the rate of 10% per year from and including October 5, 2004, payable semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year, commencing on April 1, 2005. The 10% Notes will mature on October 1, 2012. 10 At any time on or after October 1, 2008, Denny's Holdings may redeem all or a portion of the 10% Notes for cash at its option at the following redemption prices (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) if redeemed during the 12-month period commencing October 1 of the years indicated below, in each case together with accrued and unpaid interest and liquidated damages, if any, thereon to the date of redemption of the 10% Notes (the "Redemption Date"): Year: Percentage ------------------------------------------------------ 2008...................................... 105.0% 2009...................................... 102.5% 2010 and thereafter....................... 100.0% At any time on or prior to October 1, 2007, upon one or more Qualified Equity Offerings (as defined in the indenture governing the 10% Notes (the "Indenture")) for cash, up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the 10% Notes issued pursuant to the Indenture may be redeemed at the option of Denny's Holdings within 90 days of such Qualified Equity Offering, on not less than 30 days, but not more than 60 days, notice to each holder of the 10% Notes to be redeemed, with cash contributed to Denny's Holdings from the cash proceeds of such Qualified Equity Offering, at a redemption price equal to 110% of the principal amount, together with accrued and unpaid interest and Liquidated Damages, if any, thereon to the Redemption Date; provided, however, that immediately following such redemption not less than 65% of the aggregate principal amount of the 10% Notes originally issued pursuant to the Indenture remain outstanding. The Indenture contains covenants limiting the ability of Denny's Holdings and its subsidiaries (but not its parent, Denny's Corporation) to, among other things, incur additional indebtedness (including disqualified capital stock); pay dividends or make distributions or certain other restricted payments; make certain investments; create liens on our assets to secure debt; enter into sale and leaseback transactions; enter into transactions with affiliates; merge or consolidate with another company; sell, lease or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets; enter into new lines of business; and guarantee indebtedness. These covenants are subject to a number of important limitations and exceptions. Denny's Corporation is a holding company with no operations or assets, other than as related to the ownership of the common stock of Denny's Holdings and its status as a holding company. Denny's Corporation is not subject to the restrictive covenants in the Indenture. Denny's Holdings is restricted from paying dividends and making distributions to Denny's Corporation under the terms of the Indenture. Through September 29, 2004, we incurred approximately $1.0 million of deferred financing costs related to the 10% Notes, all of which were included in other accrued liabilities at September 29, 2004. Use of Proceeds from Refinancing Transactions Through September 29, 2004, we used the net proceeds from the Private Placement principally to repay the $40 million term loan under our then existing senior secured credit facility (the "Old Credit Facility") and to repurchase approximately $35.1 million aggregate principal amount of the 11 1/4% Senior Notes Due 2008 of Denny's Corporation (the "11 1/4% Notes") and approximately $8.7 million aggregate principal amount of the 12 3/4% Senior Notes Due 2007 of Denny's Corporation and Denny's Holdings (the "12 3/4% Notes"). Additionally, through September 29, 2004, we used a portion of the term loan borrowings under the New Credit Facilities to repay amounts outstanding under the Old Credit Facility, pay certain fees and expenses in connection with the Refinancing Transactions and repurchase approximately $75.1 million aggregate principal amount of the 12 3/4% Notes. At September 29, 2004, the remaining proceeds of approximately $236.4 million from borrowings under the New Credit Facilities were recorded in cash (approximately $20.0 million) and restricted cash (approximately $216.4 million) in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Amounts recorded as restricted cash are restricted by the Credit Agreements pending the repurchase or redemption of the remaining senior notes. 11 For the three quarters ended September 29, 2004, we recorded $9.7 million of losses on early extinguishment of debt which primarily represent the payment of premiums and expenses as well as write-offs of deferred financing costs and debt premiums associated with the repurchases of the 11 1/4% Notes and 12 3/4% Notes and the termination of the Old Credit Facility. These losses are included as a component of other nonoperating expense (income), net in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the quarter and three quarters ended September 29, 2004. Subsequent to the end of the third quarter, we used the remaining proceeds from borrowings under the New Credit Facilities and proceeds from the offering of 10% Notes to repurchase or redeem the remaining 11 1/4% and 12 3/4% Notes and pay fees and expenses in connection with the Refinancing Transactions. As a result, we expect to record approximately $12 million of additional losses on early extinguishment of debt during the fourth quarter of 2004 which primarily represent the payment of expenses and write-offs of deferred financing costs and debt premiums associated with these repurchases and redemptions. Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 2003 and September 29, 2004: September 29, 2004 December 31, 2003 ------------------ ----------------- (In thousands) <s> <c> <c> Notes and Debentures: 11 1/4% Senior Notes due January 15, 2008, interest payable semi-annually $ 343,920 $ 378,970 12 3/4% Senior Notes due September 30, 2007, interest payable semi-annually 36,544 120,389 New Credit Facilities: New First Lien Facility: Revolver Loans outstanding due September 30, 2008................. -- -- Term Loans due September 30, 2009................................. 225,000 -- Second Lien Facility Term Loans due September 30, 2010.............. 120,000 -- Old Credit Facility: 11.0% Term Loans...................................................... -- 40,000 Revolver Loans outstanding............................................ -- 11,100 Other notes payable, maturing over various terms to 10 years, payable in monthly and semi-annual installments with interest rates ranging from 7.5% to 9.17%......................................................... 557 586 Notes payable secured by equipment, maturing over various terms up to 6 years, payable in monthly and quarterly installments with interest rates ranging from 9.0% to 11.97%................................... 818 1,243 Capital lease obligations................................................. 31,046 32,190 ---------- ---------- 757,885 584,478 Premium on 11 1/4% Senior Notes........................................... 6,916 9,019 ---------- ---------- Total debt.............................................................. 764,801 593,497 Less current maturities................................................... 3,748 55,176 ---------- ---------- Total long-term debt.................................................... $ 761,053 $ 538,321 ========== ========== Note 4. Defined Benefit Plans --------------------- We maintain defined benefit plans which cover a substantial number of employees. Benefits are based upon each employee's years of service and average salary. Our funding policy is based on the minimum amount required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. The pension plan was closed to new participants as of December 31, 1999. Benefits will cease to accrue for pension plan participants as of December 31, 2004. We also maintain defined contribution plans. 12 The components of net pension cost of the pension plan and other defined benefit plans as determined under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 87, "Employers' Accounting for Pensions," are as follows: Pension Plan Other Defined Benefit Plans ----------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------- Quarter Ended Quarter Ended ------------- ------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ ------------------ ------------------ (In thousands) <s> <c> <c> <c> <c> Service cost $ 120 $ 75 $ 78 $ 98 Interest cos 734 718 57 59 Expected return on plan assets (700) (633) -- -- Amortization of net loss 201 214 6 14 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Net periodic benefit cost $ 355 $ 374 $ 141 $ 171 =========== =========== =========== =========== Pension Plan Other Defined Benefit Plans ----------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------- Three Quarters Ended Three Quarters Ended -------------------- -------------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ ------------------ ------------------ (In thousands) Service cost $ 360 $ 224 $ 233 $ 294 Interest cost 2,200 2,155 170 179 Expected return on plan assets (2,098) (1,898) -- -- Amortization of net loss 601 641 18 42 ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------ Net periodic benefit cost $ 1,063 $ 1,122 $ 421 $ 515 =========== =========== =========== ============ We made contributions of $2.9 million to our pension plan during the three quarters ended September 29, 2004. No contributions were made to our pension plan during the three quarters ended September 24, 2003. We made contributions of $0.3 million and $0.3 million to our other defined benefit plans during the three quarters ended September 29, 2004 and September 24, 2003, respectively. As of September 29, 2004, we expect to contribute $0.6 million to our pension plan and $0.1 million to our other defined benefit plans during the remainder of fiscal 2004. Note 5. Stock Based Compensation ------------------------ We have adopted the disclosure-only provisions of SFAS 123, "Accounting for Stock Based Compensation," while continuing to follow Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, or APB 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related interpretations in accounting for our stock-based compensation plans (i.e., the "intrinsic method"). Under APB 25, because the exercise price of our employee stock options equals or exceeds the market price of the underlying stock on the date of grant, no compensation expense has been recognized in our statements of operations. 13 For purposes of pro forma disclosures, the estimated fair value of the options is amortized to expense over the options' vesting period. Our pro forma information follows: Quarter Ended Three Quarters Ended -------------------------------------- -------------------------------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ ------------------ ------------------ (In thousands, except per share amounts) <s> <c> <c> <c> <c> Reported net loss $ (11,813) $ (6,273) $ (23,441) $ (20,732) Less total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects 93 320 384 1,080 --------- --------- --------- ---------- Pro forma net loss $ (11,906) $ (6,593) $ (23,825) $ (21,812) ========= ========= ========== ========= Loss per share: Basic and diluted - as reported $ (0.14) $ (0.15) $ (0.42) $ (0.51) ========= ========= ========= ========= Basic and diluted - pro forma $ (0.14) $ (0.16) $ (0.42) $ (0.54) ========= ========= ========= ========= Subsequent to the end of the third quarter, we granted approximately 4.0 million common stock options to certain employees. The options have an exercise price of $2.42 and will vest 33.33% of the shares on each of December 29, 2004, December 28, 2005 and December 27, 2006, respectively. At the grant date, November 11, 2004, the fair market value of the common stock was $4.22. The vesting of these options is subject to the achievement of certain performance measures through December 29, 2004. Additionally, subsequent to the end of the third quarter, we granted approximately 3.0 million restricted stock units to certain employees. The restricted stock units will be earned in 1/3 increments (from 0% to 100% of the target award for each such increment) based on the "total shareholder return" of the Common Stock (measured as increase of stock price plus reinvested dividends, divided by beginning stock price) over a 1-year performance period, the first such period ending in June 2005 (with any amounts not earned carried over to possibly be earned over a 2-year or 3-year period), as compared to the total shareholder return of a peer group of restaurant companies over the same period. The full award will be considered earned after 5 years based on continued employment. Once earned, the restricted stock units will vest over a period of two years based on continued employment of the holder. On each of the first two anniversaries of the end of the performance period, 50% of the earned restricted stock units will be paid to the holder (one half of the value will be paid in cash and one-half in shares of common stock), provided that the holder is then still employed with the Company or an affiliate. At grant date, November 11, 2004, the fair market value of the common stock was $4.22. We will record compensation expense under these stock-based compensation awards beginning in the fourth quarter of 2004 over the related vesting periods. Amounts of compensation expense to be recorded will be dependent upon meeting certain performance measures and the fair market value of the common stock over the performance and vesting periods. These options and restricted stock units were granted under the Denny's Corporation 2004 Omnibus Incentive Plan approved by the shareholders on August 25, 2004. Note 6. Net Loss Per Share ------------------ Warrants outstanding of 3.2 million at September 29, 2004 and September 24, 2003 have been omitted from the calculations of weighted average diluted shares for all periods presented because they have an antidilutive effect on net loss per share. Options outstanding of 6.6 million and 7.5 million at September 29, 2004 and September 24, 2003, respectively, have also been omitted from the calculations of weighted average diluted shares for all periods presented because they have an antidilutive effect on net loss per share. 14 Note 7. Supplemental Cash Flow Information ---------------------------------- Three Quarters Ended -------------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ (In thousands) <s> <c> <c> Income taxes paid, net $ 1,091 $ 377 ========= ========= Interest paid $ 64,363 $ 59,163 ========= ========= Noncash financing activities: Capital leases entered into $ 1,990 $ 1,334 ========= ========= Accrual of deferred financing costs $ 1,387 $ --- ========= ========= Accrual of equity issuance costs $ 249 $ --- ========= ========= Note 8. Implementation of New Accounting Standards ------------------------------------------ In January 2003, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation (FIN) No. 46, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities." In December 2003, the FASB issued FIN No. 46 (Revised) (FIN 46-R) to address certain FIN 46 implementation issues, including the delay of the effective date for certain types of Variable Interest Entities (VIEs). This interpretation clarifies the application of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, "Consolidated Financial Statements," for companies that have interests in entities that are VIEs as defined under FIN 46. According to this interpretation, if a company has an interest in a VIE and is at risk for a majority of the VIE's expected losses or receives a majority of the VIE's expected gains, it shall consolidate the VIE. FIN 46-R also requires additional disclosures by primary beneficiaries and other significant variable interest holders. For entities acquired or created before February 1, 2003, FIN 46-R is effective no later than the end of the first interim or reporting period ending after March 15, 2004, except for those VIEs that are considered to be special purpose entities, for which the effective date is no later than the end of the first interim or annual reporting period ending after December 15, 2003. For all entities that were acquired subsequent to January 31, 2003, this interpretation is effective as of the first interim or annual period ending after December 31, 2003. We completed adoption of FIN 46-R during the first quarter of 2004. The adoption of FIN 46-R had no effect on our consolidated financial statements. In December 2003 the FASB issued SFAS No. 132 (Revised) (SFAS 132-R), "Employer's Disclosure about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits." SFAS 132-R retains disclosure requirements of the original SFAS 132 and requires additional disclosures relating to assets, obligations, cash flows, and net periodic benefit cost. SFAS 132-R is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2003, except that certain disclosures are effective for fiscal years ending after June 15, 2004. Interim period disclosures are effective for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2003. See Note 4. Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations The following discussion is intended to highlight significant changes in our financial position as of September 29, 2004 and results of operations for the quarter and three quarters ended September 29, 2004 compared to the quarter and three quarters ended September 24, 2003. The forward-looking statements included in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, which reflect our best judgment based on factors currently known, involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause our actual performance to be materially different from the performance indicated or implied by such statements. Such factors include, among others: competitive pressures from within the restaurant industry; the level of success of our operating initiatives and advertising and promotional efforts; adverse publicity; changes in business strategy or development plans; terms and availability of capital; regional weather conditions; overall changes in the general economy, particularly at the retail level; political environment (including acts of war and terrorism); and other factors included in the discussion below, or in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 and in Exhibit 99 thereto. 15 Statements of Operations Quarter Ended Three Quarters Ended ------------- -------------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ ------------------ ------------------ (Dollars in thousands) (Dollars in thousands) <s> <c> <c> <c> <c> Revenue: Company restaurant sales.................... $224,330 90.8% $215,573 90.4% $649,998 90.7% $623,474 90.5% Franchise and license revenue............... 22,815 9.2% 22,817 9.6% 66,283 9.3% 65,817 9.5% -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ Total operating revenue.................. 247,145 100.0% 238,390 100.0% 716,281 100.0% 689,291 100.0% -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ Costs of company restaurant sales (a): Product costs............................... 58,328 26.0% 56,215 26.1% 167,764 25.8% 158,298 25.4% Payroll and benefits........................ 91,929 41.0% 91,080 42.3% 270,205 41.6% 271,775 43.6% Occupancy................................... 12,850 5.7% 12,296 5.7% 37,540 5.8% 36,343 5.8% Other operating expenses.................... 30,913 13.8% 31,354 14.5% 88,118 13.6% 88,185 14.1% -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ Total costs of company restaurant sales.. 194,020 86.5% 190,945 88.6% 563,627 86.7% 554,601 89.0% Costs of franchise and license revenue (a).... 6,948 30.5% 6,801 29.8% 21,165 31.9% 20,071 30.5% General and administrative expenses........... 16,727 6.8% 11,982 5.0% 46,136 6.4% 38,229 5.5% Depreciation and amortization................. 13,529 5.5% 15,254 6.4% 41,941 5.9% 43,931 6.4% Restructuring charges and exit costs.......... 1,080 0.4% 70 0.0% 666 0.1% (866) (0.1%) Impairment charges............................ 195 0.1% 1,190 0.5% 692 0.1% 1,889 0.3% Gains on disposition of assets and other, net. (998) (0.4%) (778) (0.3%) (1,230) (0.2%) (5,647) (0.8%) -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ Total operating costs and expenses....... 231,501 93.7% 225,464 94.6% 672,997 94.0% 652,208 94.6% -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ Operating income.............................. 15,644 6.3% 12,926 5.4% 43,284 6.0% 37,083 5.4% -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ Other expenses: Interest expense, net....................... 17,556 7.1% 18,990 8.0% 56,481 7.9% 57,196 8.3% Other nonoperating expense (income), net.... 9,699 3.9% (57) (0.0%) 9,635 1.3% (177) (0.0%) -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ Total other expenses, net................ 27,255 11.0% 18,933 7.9% 66,116 9.2% 57,019 8.3% -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ Loss before income taxes...................... (11,611) (4.7%) (6,007) (2.5%) (22,832) (3.2%) (19,936) (2.9%) Provision for income taxes.................... 202 0.1% 266 0.1% 609 0.1% 796 0.1% -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ -------- ------ Net loss ..................................... $(11,813) (4.8%) $ (6,273) (2.6%) $(23,441) (3.3%) $(20,732) (3.0%) ======== ====== ======== ====== ======== ====== ======== ====== Other Data: Company-owned average unit sales.............. $ 408.2 $ 384.5 $1,174.1 $1,111.5 Same-store sales increase (decrease) (company-owned) (b)........................... 6.8% (1.2%) 5.9% (0.8%) Guest check average increase (b)............ 3.8% 4.5% 3.4% 3.6% Guest count increase (decrease) (b)......... 2.9% (5.4%) 2.4% (4.2%) - ------------------ (a) Costs of company restaurant sales percentages are as a percentage of company restaurant sales. Costs of franchise and license revenue percentages are as a percentage of franchise and license revenue. All other percentages are as a percentage of total operating revenue. (b) Same-store sales include sales from restaurants that were open the same days in both the current year and prior year. For purposes of calculating same-store sales, the 1st week of 2004 was compared to the 2nd week of 2003 due to a 53rd week in 2003. Prior year amounts have not been restated for 2004 comparable units. Unit Activity - ------------- Ending Ending Ending Units Units Units Units Units Units June 30, 2004 Opened Reacquired Closed September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------- ------ ---------- ------ ------------------ ------------------ <s> <c> <c> <c> <c> <c> <c> Company-owned restaurants 556 --- 1 (4) 553 562 Franchised and licensed restaurants 1,063 6 (1) (12) 1,056 1,084 ----- ---- -- --- ----- ----- 1,619 6 0 (16) 1,609 1,646 ===== ==== == === ===== ===== 16 Quarter Ended September 29, 2004 Compared with Quarter Ended September 24, 2003 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Company Restaurant Operations During the quarter ended September 29, 2004, we realized a 6.8% increase in same-store sales, comprised of a 3.8% increase in guest check average and a 2.9% increase in guest counts. Company restaurant sales increased $8.8 million (4.1%). Higher sales resulted primarily from the increase in same-store sales for the current period partially offset by a 10 equivalent-unit decrease in company-owned restaurants. The decrease in company-owned restaurants resulted primarily from store closures. Total costs of company restaurant sales as a percentage of company restaurant sales decreased to 86.5% from 88.6%. Product costs decreased to 26.0% from 26.1%, including the impact of a $0.7 million reduction of deferred gain amortization related to the sale of former distribution subsidiaries in previous years. This deferred gain became fully amortized in September of 2003. Excluding the amortization of deferred gains for the prior year, product costs as a percentage of sales were 26.4% in 2003. Payroll and benefits decreased to 41.0% from 42.3% due to increased labor efficiency resulting from higher sales as well as decreased health benefits costs resulting from new health benefits programs implemented in 2004. These cost improvements were partially offset by higher workers' compensation costs and increased in-restaurant incentive compensation compared to the prior year. Occupancy costs were 5.7% in both quarters. Other operating expenses were comprised of the following amounts and percentages of company restaurant sales: Quarter Ended ------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------- ------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Utilities $ 10,497 4.7% $ 10,228 4.7% Repairs and maintenance 4,855 2.2% 4,873 2.3% Marketing 7,188 3.2% 7,811 3.6% Other 8,373 3.7% 8,442 3.9% --------- ----- --------- ----- Other operating expenses $ 30,913 13.8% $ 31,354 14.5% ======== ===== ========= ===== Franchise Operations Franchise and license revenues are the revenues received by Denny's from its franchisees and include royalties, initial franchise fees and occupancy revenue related to restaurants leased or subleased to franchisees. Costs of franchise and license revenue include occupancy costs related to restaurants leased or subleased to franchisees and direct costs consisting primarily of payroll and benefit costs of franchise operations personnel and bad debt expense. Franchise and license revenue and costs of franchise and license revenue were comprised of the following amounts and percentages of franchise and license revenue: Quarter Ended ------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Royalties and initial fees $ 14,838 65.0% $ 14,445 63.3% Occupancy revenue 7,977 35.0% 8,372 36.7% --------- ------ --------- ------ Franchise and license revenue $ 22,815 100.0% $ 22,817 100.0% ========= ====== ========= ====== Occupancy costs $ 5,154 22.6% $ 5,255 23.0% Other direct costs 1,794 7.9% 1,546 6.8% --------- ------ --------- ------ Costs of franchise and license revenue $ 6,948 30.5% $ 6,801 29.8% ========= ====== ========= ====== Revenues were essentially flat as a 6.6% increase in franchisee same-store sales was offset by a 28-unit decrease in franchised and licensed units due to unit closures. The increase in costs of franchise and license revenue as a percentage of franchise and license revenues was primarily due to increased franchise operations personnel incentive compensation compared to the prior year. 17 Other Operating Costs and Expenses Other operating costs and expenses such as general and administrative expenses and depreciation and amortization expense relate to both company and franchise operations. General and administrative expenses increased $4.7 million compared with the quarter ended September 24, 2003. The increase resulted primarily from higher accruals for incentive compensation of approximately $2.9 million compared to the prior year and the incurrence of recapitalization related expenses (approximately $1.4 million). Gains on disposition of assets and other, net of $1.0 million in 2004 and $0.8 million in 2003 primarily represent gains on cash sales of surplus properties. Operating income was $15.6 million for the quarter ended September 29, 2004 compared with $12.9 million for the quarter ended September 24, 2003. Interest expense, net for the quarter ended September 29, 2004 was comprised of $18.0 million of interest expense offset by $0.4 million of interest income, compared with $19.3 million of interest expense offset by $0.3 million of interest income for the quarter ended September 24, 2003. The decrease in interest expense resulted from the repurchase of a portion of the 11 1/4% Notes and 12 3/4% Notes and the repayment of balances outstanding under the Old Credit Facility. Other nonoperating expenses of $9.7 million for the quarter ended September 29, 2004 primarily represent the payment of premiums and expenses as well as write-offs of deferred financing costs and debt premiums associated with the repurchase of $118.9 million of the 11 1/4% Notes and 12 3/4% Notes and the replacement of the Old Credit Facility. The provision for income taxes was $0.2 million and $0.3 million for the quarters ended September 29, 2004 and September 24, 2003, respectively. These provisions for income taxes primarily represent gross receipts-based state and foreign income taxes which do not directly fluctuate in relation to changes in loss before income taxes. We have provided valuation allowances related to any benefits from income taxes resulting from the application of a statutory tax rate to our net operating losses. Accordingly, no additional (benefit from) or provision for income taxes has been reported for the periods presented. In establishing our valuation allowance, we have taken into consideration certain tax planning strategies involving the sale of appreciated properties in order to alter the timing of the expiration of certain net operating loss, or NOL, carryforwards in the event they were to expire unused. Such strategies, if implemented in future periods, are considered by us to be prudent and feasible in light of current circumstances. Circumstances may change in future periods such that we can no longer conclude that such tax planning strategies are prudent and feasible, which would require us to record additional deferred tax valuation allowances. Net loss was $11.8 million for the quarter ended September 29, 2004 compared with $6.3 million for the quarter ended September 24, 2003 due to the factors noted above. Three Quarters Ended September 29, 2004 Compared with Three Quarters Ended - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- September 24, 2003 - ------------------ Company Restaurant Operations During the three quarters ended September 29, 2004, we realized a 5.9% increase in same-store sales, comprised of a 2.4% increase in guest counts and a 3.4% increase in guest check average. Company restaurant sales increased $26.5 million (4.3%). Higher sales resulted primarily from the increase in same-store sales for the current year partially offset by a 7 equivalent-unit decrease in company-owned restaurants. The decrease in company-owned restaurants resulted primarily from store closures. Total costs of company restaurant sales as a percentage of company restaurant sales decreased to 86.7% from 89.0%. Product costs increased to 25.8% from 18 25.4%, including the impact of a $2.6 million reduction of deferred gain amortization related to the sale of former distribution subsidiaries in previous years. This deferred gain became fully amortized in September of 2003. Excluding the amortization of deferred gains for the prior year, product costs as a percentage of sales were 25.8% in 2003. Payroll and benefits decreased to 41.6% from 43.6% due to increased labor efficiency resulting from higher sales as well as decreased health benefits costs resulting from new health benefits programs implemented in 2004. These cost improvements were partially offset by higher workers' compensation costs and increased incentive compensation compared to the prior year. Occupancy costs were 5.8% in both years. Other operating expenses were comprised of the following amounts and percentages of company restaurant sales: Three Quarters Ended -------------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ (Dollars in thousands) Utilities $ 29,713 4.6% $ 28,366 4.5% Repairs and maintenance 12,374 1.9% 13,880 2.2% Marketing 22,427 3.5% 21,579 3.5% Other 23,604 3.6% 24,360 3.9% --------- ------ --------- ------ Other operating expenses $ 88,118 13.6% $ 88,185 14.1% ========= ====== ========= ====== Franchise Operations Franchise and license revenue and costs of franchise and license revenue were comprised of the following amounts and percentages of franchise and license revenue: Three Quarters Ended -------------------- September 29, 2004 September 24, 2003 ------------------ ------------------ (Dollars in thousands) Royalties and initial fees $ 42,761 64.5% $ 41,237 62.7% Occupancy revenue 23,522 35.5% 24,580 37.3% --------- ------ -------- ------ Franchise and license revenue $ 66,283 100.0% $ 65,817 100.0% ========= ====== ======== ====== Occupancy costs 15,757 23.8% 16,190 24.6% Other direct costs 5,408 8.1% 3,881 5.9% --------- ------ -------- ------ Costs of franchise and license revenue $ 21,165 31.9% $ 20,071 30.5% ========= ====== ======== ====== The revenue increase of $0.5 million (0.7%) resulted from a 6.0% increase in franchisee same-store sales partially offset by a 28-unit decrease in franchised and licensed units due to unit closures. Costs of franchise and license revenue increased $1.1 million (5.5%). The increase as a percentage of franchise and license revenues was due to increased franchise operations personnel incentive compensation compared to the prior year coupled with prior year costs benefiting from a net $0.4 million reduction in bad debt expense related to the collection of certain past due accounts. Other Operating Costs and Expenses General and administrative expenses increased $7.9 million (20.7%) compared with the three quarters ended September 24, 2003. The increase resulted primarily from higher accruals for incentive compensation of approximately $6.9 million compared to the prior year and the incurrence of recapitalization related expenses (approximately $3.9 million). These increases were partially offset by reductions in corporate overhead related to organizational changes. Gains on disposition of assets and other, net of $1.2 million in 2004 and $5.6 million in 2003 primarily represent gains on cash sales of surplus properties. Operating income was $43.3 million for the three quarters ended September 29, 2004 compared with $37.1 million for the three quarters ended September 24, 2003. 19 Interest expense, net for the three quarters ended September 29, 2004 was comprised of $57.6 million of interest expense offset by $1.1 million of interest income, compared with $58.3 million of interest expense offset by $1.1 million of interest income for the three quarters ended September 24, 2003. The decrease in interest expense resulted from the repurchase of a portion of the 11 1/4% Notes and 12 3/4% Notes and the repayment of balances outstanding under the Old Credit Facility. Other nonoperating expenses of $9.6 million for the three quarters ended September 29, 2004 primarily represent the payment of premiums and expenses as well as write-offs of deferred financing costs and debt premiums associated with the repurchase of $118.9 million of the 11 1/4% Notes and 12 3/4% Notes and the replacement of the Old Credit Facility. The provision for income taxes was $0.6 million and $0.8 million for the three quarters ended September 29, 2004 and September 24, 2003, respectively. These provisions for income taxes primarily represent gross receipts-based state and foreign income taxes which do not directly fluctuate in relation to changes in loss before income taxes. We have provided valuation allowances related to any benefits from income taxes resulting from the application of a statutory tax rate to our net operating losses. Accordingly, no additional (benefit from) or provision for income taxes has been reported for the periods presented. In establishing our valuation allowance, we have taken into consideration certain tax planning strategies involving the sale of appreciated properties in order to alter the timing of the expiration of certain net operating loss, or NOL, carryforwards in the event they were to expire unused. Such strategies, if implemented in future periods, are considered by us to be prudent and feasible in light of current circumstances. Circumstances may change in future periods such that we can no longer conclude that such tax planning strategies are prudent and feasible, which would require us to record additional deferred tax valuation allowances. Net loss was $23.4 million for the three quarters ended September 29, 2004 compared with $20.7 million for the three quarters ended September 24, 2003 due to the factors noted above. Liquidity and Capital Resources - ------------------------------- During the third and fourth quarters of 2004, we completed a series of recapitalization transactions intended to reduce interest expense, extend debt maturities and increase our financial flexibility. The recapitalization consisted of the transactions and the use of proceeds therefrom as described below, which we refer to collectively as the "Refinancing Transactions": Private Placement In July 2004, Denny's Corporation received net proceeds of approximately $89.8 million from a private placement of 48.4 million shares of our common stock at a price of $1.90 per share (the "Private Placement"). The proceeds are net of $2.2 million of direct costs related to the Private Placement, $0.2 million of which were included in other accrued expenses at September 29, 2004. New Credit Facilities On September 21, 2004, our subsidiaries, Denny's, Inc. and Denny's Realty, Inc. (the "Borrowers"), entered into new senior secured credit facilities in an aggregate principal amount of $420 million. The new credit facilities consist of a first lien facility and a second lien facility. The new first lien facility consists of a $225 million five-year term loan facility (the "Term Loan Facility") and a $75 million four-year revolving credit facility, of which $45 million is available for the issuance of letters of credit (the "Revolving Facility" and together with the Term Loan Facility, the "New First Lien Facility"). The second lien facility consists of an additional $120 million six-year term loan facility ranking (the "Second Lien Facility," and together with the New First Lien Facility, the "New Credit Facilities"). The Second Lien Facility ranks pari passu with the New First Lien Facility in right of payment, but is in a second lien position with respect to the collateral securing the New First Lien Facility. The New Credit Facilities are secured by substantially all of our assets and guaranteed by Denny's Corporation, Denny's Holdings and all of their subsidiaries. The Term Loan Facility will mature on September 30, 2009 and will amortize in 20 equal quarterly installments at a rate equal to approximately 1% per annum (commencing March 31, 2005) with all remaining amounts due on the maturity date. The Revolving Facility will mature on September 30, 2008. The Second Lien Facility will mature on September 30, 2010 with no amortization of principal during the six year term. The interest rates under the New First Lien Facility are as follows: At the option of the Borrowers, Adjusted LIBOR plus a spread of 3.25% per annum (3.50% per annum for the Revolving Facility) or ABR (the Alternate Base Rate, which is the highest of the Bank of America Prime Rate and the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 1/2 of 1%) plus a spread of 1.75% per annum (2.0% per annum for the Revolving Facility). The interest rate on the Second Lien Facility, at the Borrower's option, is Adjusted LIBOR plus a spread of 5.125% per annum or ABR plus a spread of 3.625% per annum. At September 29, 2004, we had outstanding letters of credit of $39.6 million under our Revolving Facility, leaving net availability of $35.4 million. There were no revolving loans outstanding at September 29, 2004. Senior Notes Offering On October 5, 2004, subsequent to the end of the third quarter, Denny's Holdings issued $175 million aggregate principal amount of Denny's Holdings' 10% Senior Notes due 2012 (the "10% Notes"). The 10% Notes are irrevocably, fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a senior basis by Denny's Corporation. The 10% Notes will be general, unsecured senior obligations of Denny's Holdings, and will rank equal in right of payment to all existing and future indebtedness and other obligations that are not, by their terms, expressly subordinated in right of payment to the notes; will rank senior in right of payment to all existing and future subordinated indebtedness; and are effectively subordinated to all existing and future secured debt to the extent of the value of the assets securing such debt and structurally subordinated to all indebtedness and other liabilities of the subsidiaries of Denny's Holdings, including the New Credit Facilities. The 10% Notes will bear interest at the rate of 10% per year from and including October 5, 2004, payable semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year, commencing on April 1, 2005. The 10% Notes will mature on October 1, 2012. Use of Proceeds from Refinancing Transactions Through September 29, 2004, we used the net proceeds from the Private Placement principally to repay the $40 million term loan under our then existing senior secured credit facility (the "Old Credit Facility") and to repurchase approximately $35.1 million aggregate principal amount of the 11 1/4% Senior Notes Due 2008 of Denny's Corporation (the "11 1/4% Notes") and approximately $8.7 million aggregate principal amount of the 12 3/4% Senior Notes Due 2007 of Denny's Corporation and Denny's Holdings (the "12 3/4% Notes"). Additionally, through September 29, 2004, we used a portion of the term loan borrowings under the New Credit Facilities to repay amounts outstanding under the Old Credit Facility, pay certain fees and expenses in connection with the Refinancing Transactions and repurchase approximately $75.1 million aggregate principal amount of the 12 3/4% Notes. At September 29, 2004, the remaining proceeds of approximately $236.4 million from borrowings under the New Credit Facilities were recorded in cash (approximately $20.0 million) and restricted cash (approximately $216.4 million) in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Subsequent to the end of the third quarter, we used the remaining proceeds from borrowings under the New Credit Facilities and proceeds from the offering of 10% Notes to repurchase or redeem the remaining 11 1/4% and 12 3/4% Notes and pay fees and expenses in connection with the Refinancing Transactions. 21 Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 2003, September 29, 2004 and on a proforma basis at September 29, 2004 as if all the Refinancing Transactions had occurred on September 29, 2004: Proforma September 29, September 29, December 31, 2004 2004 2003 ---- ---- ---- (In thousands) <s> <c> <c> <c> Notes and Debentures: 10% Senior Notes due October 1, 2012, interest payable semi-annually.... $ 175,000 $ -- $ -- 11 1/4% Senior Notes due January 15, 2008, interest payable semi-annually -- 343,920 378,970 12 3/4% Senior Notes due September 30, 2007, interest payable semi-annually -- 36,544 120,389 New Credit Facilities: New First Lien Facility: Revolver Loans outstanding due September 30, 2008................. -- -- -- Term Loans due September 30, 2009................................. 225,000 225,000 -- Second Lien Facility Term Loans due September 30, 2010.............. 120,000 120,000 -- Old Credit Facility: 11.0% Term Loans...................................................... -- -- 40,000 Revolver Loans outstanding............................................ -- -- 11,100 Other notes payable, maturing over various terms to 10 years, payable in monthly and semi-annual installments with interest rates ranging from 7.5% to 9.17%......................................................... 557 557 586 Notes payable secured by equipment, maturing over various terms up to 6 years, payable in monthly and quarterly installments with interest rates ranging from 9.0% to 11.97%....................................... 818 818 1,243 Capital lease obligations................................................. 31,046 31,046 32,190 ---------- ---------- ---------- 552,421 757,885 584,478 Premium on 11 1/4% Senior Notes........................................... -- 6,916 9,019 ---------- ---------- ---------- Total debt.............................................................. 552,421 764,801 593,497 Less current maturities................................................... 3,748 3,748 55,176 ---------- ---------- ---------- Total long-term debt.................................................... $ 548,673 $ 761,053 $ 538,321 ========== ========== ========== As a result of the Refinancing Transactions, our future contractual obligations and commitments related to long-term debt have been reduced and extended. Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, excluding capital lease obligations, at September 29, 2004 (on a proforma basis) are as follows: Year: (In thousands) ----- 2004..................................... $ 161 2005..................................... 1,978 2006..................................... 2,433 2007..................................... 2,452 2008..................................... 2,970 Thereafter............................... 511,381 --------- $ 521,375 Cash Requirements Our principal capital requirements have been largely associated with remodeling and maintaining our existing restaurants and facilities. For the three quarters ended September 29, 2004, our capital expenditures were $24.1 million. Of that amount, approximately $2.0 million was financed through capital leases. Capital expenditures during 2004 are expected to total approximately $40 million; however, we are not committed to spending this amount and could spend more or less if circumstances require. Our working capital deficit was $80.0 million at September 29, 2004, which included remaining proceeds of approximately $20.0 million from borrowings under the New Credit Facilities. These remaining proceeds, along with restricted cash of $216.4 million, were used subsequent to the end of the third quarter to repurchase or redeem the remaining 11 1/4% and 12 3/4% Notes and pay fees and expenses in connection with the Refinancing Transactions. Excluding the $20.0 million of remaining proceeds, we had a working capital deficit of $100.0 million compared with a working capital deficit of $160.5 million at December 31, 2003. This decrease in the working capital deficit resulted primarily from the repayment of balances outstanding under our Old Credit Facility, which were 22 classified as current liabilities at December 31, 2003, with proceeds from the Private Placement. We are able to operate with a substantial working capital deficit because (1) restaurant operations and most food service operations are conducted primarily on a cash (and cash equivalent) basis with a low level of accounts receivable, (2) rapid turnover allows a limited investment in inventories, and (3) accounts payable for food, beverages and supplies usually become due after the receipt of cash from the related sales. Implementation of New Accounting Standards - ------------------------------------------ See Note 8 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk We have exposure to interest rate risk related to certain instruments entered into for other than trading purposes. Specifically, certain of our debt instruments bear interest at variable rates as follows: Rate at September 29, 2004 --------------------------- New Credit Facilities: First Lien Facility Term Loans, LIBOR plus 3.25% 5.1% Second Lien Facility Term Loans, LIBOR plus 5.125% 6.9% A 100 basis point change in the rate for these debt instruments would cause the interest expense for the remainder of 2004 to change by $0.9 million. This computation is determined by considering the impact of hypothetical interest rates on balance outstanding under the New Credit Facilities at September 29, 2004. However, the nature and amount of our borrowings under the New Credit Facilities may vary as a result of future business requirements, market conditions and other factors. Our other outstanding long-term debt bears fixed rates of interest. The estimated fair value of our fixed rate long-term debt (excluding capital leases) was approximately $397.0 million at September 29, 2004. The carrying value of such debt was approximately $381.8 million at September 29, 2004. This computation is based on market quotations for the same or similar debt issues or the estimated borrowing rates available to us. The difference in the estimated fair value of long-term debt compared to its historical cost reported in our consolidated balance sheets at September 29, 2004 relates primarily to market quotations for our 11 1/4% Notes and 12 3/4% Notes. These notes were redeemed or repurchased subsequent to quarter end. See Note 3 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. We have established a policy to identify, control and manage market risks which may arise from changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices and other relevant rates and prices. We do not use derivative instruments for trading purposes, and no interest rate or other financial derivatives were in place at September 29, 2004. Item 4. Controls and Procedures As required by Rule 13a-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the "Exchange Act") our management conducted an evaluation (under the supervision and with the participation of our President and Chief Executive Officer, Nelson J. Marchioli, and our Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Andrew F. Green) as of the end of the period covered by this report, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act. Based on that evaluation, Messrs. Marchioli and Green each concluded that Denny's disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that Denny's files or submits under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms. 23 There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by Rule 13a-15(d) of the Exchange Act that occurred during our last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. PART II - OTHER INFORMATION Item 1. Legal Proceedings There are various claims and pending legal actions against or indirectly involving us, including actions concerned with civil rights of employees and customers, other employment related matters, taxes, sales of franchise rights and businesses and other matters. Our ultimate legal and financial liability with respect to these matters cannot be estimated with certainty. However, we believe, based on our examination of these matters and our experience to date, that the ultimate disposition of them will not significantly affect our financial position or results of operations. Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders A special meeting of stockholders of Denny's Corporation was held on Wednesday, August 25, 2004, and the following matters were voted on by the stockholders of Denny's Corporation: (i) Approval of an amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Denny's Corporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, from 100,000,000 shares to 135,000,000 shares. Votes For Votes Against Votes Abstaining --------- ------------- ---------------- 61,654,545 336,959 32,278 (ii) Approval of the Denny's Corporation 2004 Omnibus Incentive Plan Votes For Votes Against Votes Abstaining --------- ------------- ---------------- 59,734,135 2,269,365 20,282 On September 7, 2004, Denny's Corporation commenced consent solicitations of the holders of each of the 11 1/4% Notes and the 12 3/4% Notes (none of which are currently outstanding) to the adoption of certain amendments to the respective indentures governing those notes between us and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, eliminating substantially all of the restrictive covenants and events of default relating to such restrictive covenants from the respective indentures and reducing the minimum notice period for a redemption of each of the notes from 30 days to three days. The holders of approximately 83% of outstanding principal amount of the 11 1/4% Notes gave their consent and holders of approximately 67% of outstanding principal amount of the 12 3/4% Notes gave their consent. The remaining holders withheld their consent. September 20, 2004 was the last day on which consents could be given or revoked. Item 5. Other Information As described above, the stockholders of Denny's Corporation previously approved the Denny's Corporation 2004 Omnibus Incentive Plan to promote the Company's success by linking the personal interests of its employees, officers, directors and consultants to those of the stockholders, and by providing participants with an incentive for performance. The plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors or the Board of Directors as a whole. Ten million shares of the common stock of Denny's Corporation are reserved for issuance upon the grant or exercise of awards pursuant to the plan. 24 The plan authorizes the granting of incentive awards from time to time to selected employees, officers, directors and consultants of Denny's Corporation and its affiliates. Awards may be in any of the following forms: (i) options to purchase shares of common stock, which may be non-qualified stock options or incentive stock options under the U.S. tax code (the "Code"); (ii) stock appreciation rights; (iii) performance awards; (iv) restricted stock; (v) restricted stock units; (vi) deferred stock units; (vii) dividend equivalents; (viii) other stock-based awards in the discretion of the Compensation Committee, including unrestricted stock grants; and purely cash-based awards. The Compensation Committee may designate any award other than a market-priced option or stock appreciation right as a qualified performance-based award in order to make the award fully deductible without regard to the $1,000,000 deduction limit imposed by Code Section 162(m), in accordance with the plan. Item 6. Exhibits a. The following are included as exhibits to this report: Exhibit No. Description ------- ----------- 4.1 12 3/4% Senior Notes due 2007 Supplemental Indenture, dated September 21, 2004, among Denny's Corporation (f/k/a Advantica Restaurant Group, Inc.) and Denny's Holdings, Inc., as Issuers and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee. 4.2 11 1/4% Senior Notes due 2008 Supplemental Indenture dated as of September 21, 2004 between Denny's Corporation (f/k/a Advantica Restaurant Group, Inc.), as Issuer, and U.S. Bank National Association (successor to First Trust National Association), as Trustee. 4.3 10% Senior Notes due 2012 Indenture (including the form of security) dated as of October 5, 2004 between Denny's Holdings, Inc., as Issuer, Denny's Corporation, as Guarantor, and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee. 4.4* Amendment No. 1 dated as of July 2, 2004 to the Rights Agreement dated as of December 14, 1998, between Denny's Corporation and Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 2, 2004). 4.5* Amendment No. 2 dated as of July 27, 2004 to the Rights Agreement, dated as of December 14, 1998, as previously amended as of July 2, 2004, between Denny's Corporation and Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2004). 10.1 Credit Agreement dated as of September 21, 2004, Among Denny's, Inc., Denny's Realty, Inc., as Borrowers, Denny's Corporation, Denny's Holdings, Inc., DFO, Inc., as Guarantors, the Lenders named herein, Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and UBS SECURITIES LLC, as Syndication Agent, and Banc of America Securities LLC and UBS Securities LLC, as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners (First Lien). 10.2 Credit Agreement dated as of September 21, 2004, Among Denny's, Inc., Denny's Realty, Inc., as Borrowers, Denny's Corporation, Denny's Holdings, Inc., DFO, Inc., as Guarantors, the Lenders named herein, Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and UBS SECURITIES LLC, as Syndication Agent, and Banc of America Securities LLC and UBS Securities LLC, as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners (Second Lien). 25 10.3 Guarantee and Collateral Agreement dated as of September 21, 2004, among Denny's, Inc., Denny's Realty, Inc., Denny's Corporation, Denny's Holdings, Inc., DFO, Inc., each other Subsidiary Loan Party and Bank of America, N.A., as Collateral Agent (First Lien). 10.4 Guarantee and Collateral Agreement dated as of September 21, 2004, among Denny's, Inc., Denny's Realty, Inc., Denny's Corporation, Denny's Holdings, Inc., DFO, Inc., each other Subsidiary Loan Party and Bank of America, N.A., as Collateral Agent (Second Lien). 10.5 Denny's Holdings, Inc. $175,000,000 10% Senior Notes due 2012 Purchase Agreement dated September 29, 2004 by and among Denny's Holdings, Inc., Denny's Corporation, UBS Securities LC, Goldman, Sachs & Co. and Banc of America Securities LLC. 10.6 Registration Rights Agreement dated as of October 5, 2004, by and among Denny's Holdings, Inc. as Issuer, Denny's Corporation as Guarantor, and UBS Securities LLC, Goldman, Sachs & Co. and Banc of America Securities LLC as Initial Purchasers. 10.7 Description of amendments to the Denny's, Inc. Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan for Executives, the Advantica Stock Option Plan and the Advantica Restaurant Group Director Stock Option Plan. 10.8* Amendment No. 1 dated as of July 2, 2004 to the Credit Agreement dated as of December 16, 2002, as amended and restated as of September 26, 2003, among Denny's, Inc., Denny's Realty, Inc., Denny's Corporation, Denny's Holdings, Inc., DFO, Inc., the Lenders from time to time party thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, as Administrative Agent, and Wells Fargo Foothill, Inc. (f/k/a Foothill Capital Corporation), as Syndication Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2004). 10.9* Amendment No. 2 dated as of July 27, 2004 to the Credit Agreement dated as of December 16, 2002, as amended and restated as of September 26, 2003 and as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto dated of July 2, 2004, among Denny's Inc., Denny's Realty, Inc., Denny's Corporation, Denny's Holdings, Inc., DFO, Inc., the Lenders from time to time party thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, as Administrative Agent, and Wells Fargo Foothill, Inc. f/k/a Foothill Capital Corporation), as Syndication Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2004). 10.10* Form of Subscription Agreement dated July 6, 2004 in connection with the Private Placement of Common Stock of Denny's Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 6, 2004). 10.11* Denny's Corporation 2004 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix B to our Definitive Proxy Statement filed on August 2, 2004 and furnished to stockholders of the Company in connection with the August 25, 2004 Special Meeting of Stockholders of the Company.) 10.12* Form of stock option agreement to be used under the Denny's Corporation 2004 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to our Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-120093) filed on October 29, 2004. 31.1 Certification of Nelson J. Marchioli, President and Chief Executive Officer of Denny's Corporation, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 26 31.2 Certification of Andrew F. Green, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Denny's Corporation, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 32.1 Certification of Nelson J. Marchioli, President and Chief Executive Officer of Denny's Corporation and Andrew F. Green, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Denny's Corporation, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. _________________________ *Incorporated by reference. 27 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. DENNY'S CORPORATION Date: November 15, 2004 By: /s/ Rhonda J. Parish ----------------------------- Rhonda J. Parish Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary Date: November 15, 2004 By: /s/ Andrew F. Green ----------------------------- Andrew F. Green Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 28