Chairman’s Report to Unitholders
On behalf of the Trustees of the A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund (the Fund), I am pleased to
report the results of the year ended December 31, 2018.
The Fund achieved outstanding results for the fourth quarter and year. Same store sales growth was
+12.3% for the quarter, as compared to the same quarter of 2017 and total royalty income for the
quarter increased by 18.1%. Annual same store sales growth was +9.8% and royalty income
increased by 14.7%.
Same store sales increases are the primary driver of growth in distributable cash per unit, and as
a result of the strong performance through the year, we are pleased to be able to increase monthly
distributions, from 14.3¢ per unit to 14.7¢ per unit. This brings the annualized rate of
distribution to $1.764.
The Fund, through its investment in A&W Trade Marks Inc. (Trade Marks), owns the A&W trade-
marks and licenses them to A&W Food Services of Canada Inc. (A&W Food Services), in exchange
for a royalty of 3% of sales reported by the 896 restaurants in the Royalty Pool. The Royalty Pool is
adjusted annually to include sales from net new A&W restaurants opened by A&W Food Services
over the previous year. The number of A&W restaurants in the Royalty Pool was increased on
January 5, 2018, from 861 to 896 and again on January 5, 2019, with an additional 38 net new
restaurants being added to the Royalty Pool.
Distributable cash per equivalent unit increased by 21.2¢ to $1.853 per unit in 2018 from $1.641
for 2017. The Fund’s trustees announced three increases in the monthly distribution rate in
2018: from 13.6¢ per unit to 13.8¢ per unit starting with the April distribution, from 13.8¢ per
unit to 14.1¢ per unit starting with the July distribution, and then from 14.1¢ per unit to 14.3¢ per
unit starting with the October distribution. The monthly distribution rate at December 31, 2018
of 14.3¢ per unit translated into an annualized distribution rate of $1.716 per unit, an increase of
5.1% from the 2017 annualized rate of $1.632 per unit. The annual payout ratio for 2018 was
90.3% compared to 97.8% for 2017.
A&W Food Services recently updated its Mission, committing to “be loved for our natural
ingredients, great taste, convenience, and for doing what’s right.” Strategic initiatives include
repositioning and differentiating the A&W brand through innovation with high quality
ingredients; continued rapid new restaurant growth, and delivering an industry leading guest
experience. The successful execution of this strategy is key to delivering continued strong
results and improved market share in the quick service restaurants burger market, and increased
royalty income to the Fund.
On behalf of the Trustees, I would like to thank all of our investors who have placed their trust
with the A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund.
(signed) John R. McLernon
Chairman
A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
1
Report to Fund Unitholders
A&W’s industry leading innovation, along with continued commitment to great tasting food made
with care from quality ingredients, is broadening our appeal and winning guest visits. Rapid growth
of new locations, coupled with a combination of successful marketing programs and guest
experience improvements is making A&W a preferred choice for more and more guests.
Overall system sales grew at a record rate year over year, increasing by 14.5%, bringing our total
system sales to $1.42 billion. Building momentum through the past year, we also achieved
extremely strong same store sales growth of +12.3% in the fourth quarter and an annual growth rate
of +9.8%.
A significant driver behind our sales growth is our focus on innovation and quality ingredients. We
have led the QSR industry in sourcing “better ingredients” since 2013, when Food Services became
the first national QSR in Canada to use only beef raised without the use of hormones and steroids,
free of additives, fillers or preservatives. In 2018, Food Services introduced the Beyond Meat
Burger and is very excited to be the first national burger chain in Canada to offer burger lovers
across Canada this burger patty made using 100% plant-based protein.
Another key strategic initiative is the acceleration of growth through the opening of new A&W
restaurants. In 2018, 42 new restaurants opened across Canada, bringing the total number of
restaurants in the chain to 952. A&W also expanded upon its strategy to reach more consumers by
joining forces with Uber Eats to make ordering and enjoying A&W's menu options more convenient
and accessible in more parts of the country.
Also of note, is the effort that has been taken to further reduce A&W’s environmental footprint.
Food Services was the first quick service restaurant chain in North America to commit that all
plastic straws would be eliminated from all restaurants by the end of 2018. The switch to paper
straws, which are 100% biodegradable, compostable and are sustainably sourced, will keep 82
million plastic straws out of landfills every year.
A&W was proud to again partner with the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada and Christine
Sinclair to celebrate its 10th “Burgers to Beat MS Day”, as part of a campaign which raised more
than $1.9 million. In 10 years, the annual campaign has raised nearly $13 million which has been
used to fund world-class MS research, programs and services, and advocacy efforts that aim to
improve the quality of life for Canadians living with and affected by the disease.
In closing, we are pleased to see the positive impact that our commitment to strategy has had. We
continue to deliver strong results despite some ongoing challenges in the food service industry and
are enthusiastic about the potential we see to build on this foundation in the year ahead.
(signed) Susan Senecal
President and Chief Executive Officer
A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.
2
A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Management Discussion and Analysis
This Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) covers the fourth quarter period from
September 10, 2018 to December 31, 2018 and the year ended December 31, 2018, and is dated
February 12, 2019. This MD&A should be read in conjunction with the audited annual
consolidated financial statements of the Fund for the year ended December 31, 2018. Readers are
also referred to the audited annual consolidated financial statement of A&W Food Services of
Canada Inc. (Food Services) for the 52 week year ended December 30, 2018. Such financial
statements and additional information about the Fund and Food Services are available at
www.sedar.com or www.awincomefund.ca.
The financial results reported in this MD&A are derived from the audited annual consolidated
financial statements of the Fund, which are prepared in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards (IFRS). The accounting policies applied in the audited annual consolidated
financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018 and this report have been consistently
applied to all years presented, and reflect the adoption of IFRS 9, Financial Instruments, and
IFRS 15, Revenue from Contracts with Customers.
The Fund uses a fiscal year ending December 31. Food Services uses a fiscal year comprising a
52 or 53 week period ending on the Sunday nearest December 31. Food Services’ fiscal 2018
year was 52 weeks and ended December 30, 2018 (2017 – 52 weeks ended December 31, 2017).
The Fund aligns its quarterly financial reporting with that of Food Services. Readers should be
aware that 2018 quarterly results are not directly comparable to 2017 year to date results, as there
were 84 days of sales in Q1, 2018 compared to 85 days in Q1, 2017. The second and third
quarters of both years had 84 days. The fourth quarter of 2018 had 113 days compared to 112
days in the fourth quarter of 2017. Same store sales growth is based on an equal number of days
in each quarter.
HIGHLIGHTS
Same store sales(1) for the fourth quarter of 2018 grew by +12.3% as compared to the
same quarter of 2017. Annual same store sales growth is +9.8%.
Total sales in the Royalty Pool (as hereinafter defined) and royalty income increased by
18.1% in the quarter and by 14.7% for 2018 as compared to 2017.
Annual net income increased in 2018 by 11.9%.
Monthly distribution rate was increased in 2018 from 13.6¢ to 14.3¢ per unit. The current
annual distribution rate is $1.716 per unit, a 5.1% increase over 2017’s annual distribution
rate.
Distribution to be increased by 2.8%.
(1) Same store sales and same store sales growth do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not
be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. This important information is provided as it is a key driver of
3
growth in the Fund. Same store sales growth is based on an equal number of days in each quarter and year. See “Sales
Performance”.
The following selected information, other than “Same store sales growth”, “Total distributable
cash generated for distributions and dividends”, “Distributable cash per equivalent unit” and “Net
income, excluding non-cash items” have been derived from financial statements prepared in
accordance with IFRS and all dollar amounts are reported in Canadian currency.
(dollars in thousands except per unit
amounts)
Same store sales growth(1)
Number of restaurants in the Royalty Pool
Sales reported by the restaurants in the
Royalty Pool
Royalty income
General and administrative expenses
Net third party interest expense
Current income tax provision
Total distributable cash generated for
distributions and dividends(2)
Distributable cash per equivalent unit
(2018 – 16,874,762 units; 2017 –
16,015,038 units)(2)(3)
Distributions and dividends declared per
equivalent unit
Net income(4)
Net income, excluding non-cash items(4)
Period from
Sep 10, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Sep 11, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
Period from
Jan 1, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Jan 1, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
+12.3%
896
+3.1%
861
+9.8%
896
+2.0%
861
$439,950
$372,679
$1,362,996
$1,188,818
$13,199
$11,181
$40,890
$35,665
236
788
1,960
228
789
1,879
713
2,568
6,346
654
2,583
5,985
$10,216
$8,119
$31,262
$26,279
$0.605
$0.507
$1.853
$1.641
$0.570
$9,823
$10,816
$0.541
$8,160
$8,430
$1.674
$1.605
$31,575
$32,547
$28,220
$26,816
(1) Same store sales growth does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to
similar measures presented by other issuers. This information is provided as it is a key driver of growth in the Fund. Same store
sales growth is based on an equal number of days in each quarter and year. See “Sales Performance”.
(2) Distributable cash and distributable cash per equivalent unit do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and
therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. This information is provided as it identifies the
amount of actual cash generated to pay distributions to unitholders and dividends to Food Services. See “Distributable Cash”.
(3) The number of equivalent units and distributable cash per equivalent unit in 2018 is calculated on a fully-diluted basis and
includes the 263,472 LP units (as hereinafter defined) representing the final consideration paid in December 2018 for the January
5, 2018 adjustment to the Royalty Pool. The number of equivalent units and distributable cash per equivalent unit in 2017 is
calculated on a fully-diluted basis and includes the 150,665 LP units exchanged for 301,330 common shares of Trade Marks
representing the final consideration paid in December 2017 for the January 5, 2017 adjustment to the Royalty Pool.
(4) Net income in 2018 and 2017 includes non-cash gains and losses on an interest rate swap, amortization of deferred financing
fees and deferred income taxes. These non-cash items have no impact on the Fund’s ability to pay distributions to unitholders.
The Fund’s net income excluding these non-cash items is presented for information purposes only. Net income excluding non-
cash items does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures
presented by other issuers.
SALES PERFORMANCE
Same store sales growth by A&W restaurants for which the royalty is payable (the Royalty Pool)
by Food Services to A&W Trade Marks Limited Partnership (the Partnership) is a key
performance indicator for the Fund. Same store sales growth is the change in sales of A&W
restaurants in the Royalty Pool that operated during the entire 26 4-week periods ending
December 31, 2018.
4
Same store sales for the fourth quarter of 2018 increased by 12.3% as compared to the same
quarter of 2017 continuing on the momentum built over the past year. Same store sales growth
was achieved in all provinces and concepts, including Saskatchewan, with Ontario and Quebec
and the Urban concept restaurants leading the way. Annual same store sales growth was +9.8%
compared to 2017.
The chart below shows the percentage change in same store sales by A&W restaurants for the
eight most recently completed quarters.
Total sales reported by A&W restaurants in the Royalty Pool for the fourth quarter of 2018 were
$439,950,000, an increase of 18.1% from sales of $372,679,000 for the fourth quarter of 2017.
Annual sales were $1,362,996,000, an increase of 14.7% from the sales of $1,188,818,000 for
2017. The increase in sales was due to the increase in the number of A&W restaurants in the
Royalty Pool and same store sales growth.
The Fund is pleased to announce that, as a result of the performance by restaurants in the Royalty
Pool, the monthly distribution to unitholders will increase from 14.3¢ per unit to 14.7¢ per unit
beginning with the February 2019 distribution which is payable on March 29, 2019. The new
distribution rate translates into an annualized distribution rate of $1.764 per unit, an increase of
2.8% from the prior level of $1.716 per unit.
OVERVIEW
The Fund is a limited purpose trust established in 2001 under the laws of the Province of British
Columbia pursuant to the Declaration of Trust. The units of the Fund trade on the Toronto Stock
Exchange under the symbol AW.UN. The Fund’s place of business is located at 300 – 171 West
Esplanade, North Vancouver, BC. The Fund was established to invest in A&W Trade Marks Inc.
(Trade Marks), which through its ownership interest in the Partnership, owns the A&W trade-
marks used in the A&W quick service restaurant business in Canada. The Partnership has
granted Food Services a licence (the Amended and Restated Licence and Royalty Agreement) to
use the A&W trade-marks in Canada for a term expiring December 30, 2100, for which Food
Services pays a royalty of 3% of the sales reported to Food Services by A&W restaurants in the
Royalty Pool. Food Services is a leading franchisor of hamburger quick service restaurants in
Canada.
5
The Partnership distributes its available cash, after satisfaction of any debt service, provision for
operating and other expenses and any amounts retained as reserves, by way of distributions on
limited partnership units (LP units) held by Trade Marks. Trade Marks subsequently distributes
its available cash, after satisfaction of debt service and income tax obligations, provisions for
administrative expenses of Trade Marks and the Fund, and retention of reasonable working
capital reserves, by way of dividends on its common shares held by the Fund and Food Services.
The Fund in turn makes distributions to unitholders.
Trade Marks’ general and administrative expenses include the expenses of the Fund as the Fund
has entered into an administration agreement with Trade Marks whereby Trade Marks, at its
expense, provides or arranges for the provision of services required in the administration of the
Fund.
A key attribute of the Fund is that the distributable cash available to make distributions to
unitholders is based on the sales of the A&W restaurants in the Royalty Pool, less operating
expenses associated with operating the Fund, interest and taxes. The Fund is a top-line fund,
meaning it is not subject to variability of earnings or expenses associated with an operating
business.
Another important aspect of the Fund is that, as at December 31, 2018, Food Services owned the
equivalent of 25.9% (2017 – 21.9%) of the units of the Fund on a fully-diluted basis through its
ownership of common shares of Trade Marks, which are exchangeable, at the option of Food
Services, for units of the Fund on the basis of two common shares for one unit of the Fund. As a
result, interests of Food Services are closely aligned with the interests of unitholders.
Growth in the Fund is achieved in two ways: first, and most importantly, by increasing the same
store sales of the A&W restaurants in the Royalty Pool, and second by adding new A&W
restaurants to the Royalty Pool each year.
The Royalty Pool is adjusted annually to reflect sales from new A&W restaurants added to the
Royalty Pool, net of the sales of any A&W restaurants that have permanently closed. Food
Services is paid for the additional royalty stream related to the sales of the net new restaurants,
based on a formula set out in the Amended and Restated Licence and Royalty Agreement. The
formula provides for a payment to Food Services based on 92.5% of the amount of estimated
sales from the net new A&W restaurants and the current yield on the units of the Fund, adjusted
for income taxes payable by Trade Marks. The consideration is paid to Food Services in the form
of additional LP units. The additional LP units are, at the option of Food Services, exchangeable
for additional common shares of Trade Marks, which are in turn exchangeable for units of the
Fund on the basis of two common shares for one unit of the Fund.
6
ADJUSTMENT TO THE ROYALTY POOL
The 2018 adjustment to the Royalty Pool took place on January 5, 2018. The number of A&W
restaurants in the Royalty Pool was increased by 42 new restaurants less seven restaurants that
permanently closed during 2017. The addition of these 35 net new restaurants brought the total
number of A&W restaurants in the Royalty Pool to 896. The estimated annual sales of the 42
new A&W restaurants was $55,642,000 and annual sales for the seven permanently closed
restaurants was $3,210,000. The initial consideration for the estimated additional royalty stream
was $25,989,000, calculated by discounting the estimated additional royalties by 7.5% and
dividing the result by the yield on units of the Fund for the 20 trading days ending October 30,
2017. The yield was adjusted to reflect income tax payable by Trade Marks. The Partnership
paid Food Services 80% of the initial consideration or $20,791,000 by issuance of 596,251 LP
units which were subsequently exchanged for 1,192,502 non-voting common shares of Trade
Marks. The final adjustment of the number of LP units issued was made on December 7, 2018
based on the actual annual sales reported by the new A&W restaurants of $63,783,000 compared
to the original estimate of $55,642,000. As a result, $5,198,000 representing the remaining 20%
of the initial consideration and additional consideration of $3,989,000 were paid to Food Services
by issuance of 263,472 additional LP units, which were subsequently exchanged for 526,944 non-
voting common shares of Trade Marks.
Subsequent to December 31, 2018, the 2019 adjustment to the Royalty Pool took place on
January 5, 2019. The number of A&W restaurants in the Royalty Pool was increased by 46 new
restaurants less eight restaurants that permanently closed during 2018. The addition of these 38
net new restaurants brings the total number of A&W restaurants in the Royalty Pool to 934. The
estimated annual sales of the 46 new A&W restaurants are $62,283,000 and annual sales for the
eight permanently closed restaurants were $4,795,000. The initial consideration for the estimated
additional royalty stream was $27,305,000, calculated by discounting the estimated additional
royalties by 7.5% and dividing the result by the yield on units of the Fund for the 20 trading day
ending October 29, 2018. The yield was adjusted to reflect income tax payable by Trade Marks.
The Partnership paid Food Services 80% of the initial consideration or $21,844,000 by issuance
of 627,514 LP units which were subsequently exchanged for 1,255,028 non-voting common
shares of Trade Marks. The remaining 20% of the consideration or $5,461,000 will be paid in
December 2019 by issuance of additional LP units, which may be exchanged for non-voting
common shares of Trade Marks. The actual amount of the consideration paid in December 2019
may differ from this amount depending on the actual annual sales reported by the new A&W
restaurants.
After the initial consideration was paid for the January 5, 2019 adjustment to the Royalty Pool,
Food Services’ indirect interest in the Fund increased to 28.6% on a fully-diluted basis (25.9% as
of December 31, 2018).
COMMON SHARES OF TRADE MARKS
The common shares of Trade Marks are owned by the Fund and Food Services. On March 3,
2017, Food Services exchanged 746,600 common shares of Trade Marks for 373,300 units of the
Fund, which were then sold at a price of $39.25 per unit. The Fund did not receive any proceeds
of the sale of the units. The common shares of Trade Marks are owned by the Fund and Food
Services as follows:
7
(dollars in thousands)
Fund
Food Services
Total
Number of
shares
Trade
Marks’
book
value
$
Number of
shares
%
Trade
Marks’
book
value
$
Number of
shares
%
Trade
Marks’
book
value
$
Balance as at
December 31, 2016
24,262,671
114,680
78.2
6,773,229
66,099
21.8
31,035,900
180,779
January 5, 2017
adjustment to the
Royalty Pool(1)
March 3, 2017
exchange of
common shares for
units of the Fund
Balance as at
-
-
(2.4)
994,102
17,273
2.4
994,102
17,273
-
746,600
7,814
2.3
(746,600)
(7,814)
(2.3)
-
-
December 31, 2017
25,009,271
122,494
78.1
7,020,731
75,558
21.9
32,030,002
198,052
January 5, 2018
adjustment to the
Royalty Pool(2)
Balance as at
-
-
(4.0)
1,719,446
29,978
4.0
1,719,446
29,978
December 31, 2018
25,009,271
122,494
74.1
8,740,177
105,536
25.9
33,749,448
228,030
(1) The number of common shares includes the 150,665 LP units exchanged for 301,300 common shares of Trade Marks
representing the final consideration paid in December 2017 for the January 5, 2017 adjustment to the Royalty Pool.
(2) The number of common shares includes the 263,472 LP units exchanged for 526,944 common shares of Trade Marks
representing the final consideration paid in December 2018 for the for the January 5, 2018 adjustment to the Royalty Pool.
OWNERSHIP OF THE FUND
The ownership of the Fund, on a fully-diluted basis, is as follows:
Fund units held by public unitholders
Number of Fund units issuable upon
exchange of securities of Trade
Marks held by Food Services(1)
December 31, 2018
December 31, 2017
Number of
units
%
Number of
units
%
12,504,673
74.1
12,504,673
78.1
4,370,089
25.9
3,510,365
21.9
Total equivalent units
16,874,762
100.0
16,015,038
100.0
(1) Common shares of Trade Marks held by Food Services may be exchanged for units of the Fund on the basis of two common
shares for a unit of the Fund.
8
The following chart shows the ownership of the Fund, on a fully-diluted basis, after the initial
consideration for the January 5, 2019 adjustment to the Royalty Pool.
Fund units held by public unitholders
Number of Fund units issuable upon
exchange of securities of Trade
Marks held by Food Services
Total equivalent units
Number of
units
12,504,673
%
71.4
4,997,603
28.6
17,502,276
100.0
The chart below shows the ownership of the Fund, on a fully-diluted basis, when the remaining
20% of the initial consideration for the January 5, 2019 adjustment to the Royalty Pool is
expected to be paid in December 2019, by issuance of 156,878 LP units exchangeable for
313,756 common shares of Trade Marks. The actual amount of the consideration paid in
December 2019 may differ from this amount depending on the actual annual sales reported by the
new A&W restaurants.
Number of
units
%
12,504,673
70.8
5,154,481
29.2
17,659,154
100.0
Fund units held by public unitholders
Number of Fund units issuable upon
exchange of securities of Trade
Marks held by Food Services
Total equivalent units
FINANCIAL RESULTS
INCOME
Royalty income for the fourth quarter of 2018 was $13,199,000 based on sales of $439,950,000.
This was an increase of 18.1% from royalty income of $11,181,000 and sales of $372,679,000 for
the fourth quarter of 2017. Annual royalty income was $40,890,000 based on sales of
$1,362,996,000, an increase of 14.7% from royalty income of $35,665,000 and sales of
$1,188,818,000 for 2017. The increase in sales and royalty income was due to the additional net
35 new A&W restaurants in the Royalty Pool and the 9.8% increase in same store sales.
EXPENSES
The Fund’s cash expenses excluding income taxes were as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
Period from
Sep 10, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Sep 11, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
Period from
Jan 1, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Jan 1, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
General and administrative
Net interest on term loan and other
$236
$788
$228
$789
$713
$2,568
$654
$2,583
General and administrative expenses for the fourth quarter of 2018 increased by $8,000 to
$236,000 compared to $228,000 for the fourth quarter of 2017. General and administrative
expenses for the full year of 2018 were $713,000 compared to $654,000 for the same period of
2017. The increase was primarily due to higher TSX filing fees and professional fees.
9
Interest on the term loan was $788,000 for the fourth quarter of 2018, $1,000 lower compared to
the fourth quarter of 2017, and decreased by $15,000 to $2,568,000 for the full year of 2018
compared to $2,583,000 for 2017. An interest rate swap agreement is used to manage risks from
fluctuations in interest rates and facilitate uniform monthly distributions (see “Liquidity and
Capital Resources”).
GAIN ON INTEREST RATE SWAP
The Fund’s net income included non-cash gains on the interest rate swap equal to the change in
the fair value of the interest rate swap. These non-cash items had no impact on the Fund’s cash
available to pay distributions.
(dollars in thousands)
Period from
Sep 10, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Sep 11, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
Period from
Jan 1, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Jan 1, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
Loss (gain) on interest rate swap
$638
($464)
($329)
($2,708)
See “Liquidity and Capital Resources”.
INCOME TAXES
The Fund’s provision for (recovery of) income taxes was as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
Current
Current income tax provision
Refundable income tax
Deferred
Total provision for income taxes
Period from
Sep 10, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Sep 11, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
Period from
Jan 1, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Jan 1, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
$1,960
(601)
345
$1,704
$1,879
(145)
723
$2,457
$6,346
(1,284)
1,268
$6,330
$5,985
(371)
1,269
$6,883
The Fund as a legal entity is not currently taxed on its income as dividends received from Trade
Marks are not subject to the tax on Specified Investment Flow-Through (SIFT) trusts which
applies to income trusts such as the Fund. The provision for income taxes on the Fund’s
consolidated statement of income is the expected current and deferred tax payable by Trade
Marks as a legal entity.
Trade Marks’ taxable income is taxed at an effective rate of 20.0% (2017 – 19.0%), plus an
additional tax of 30.67% (2017 – 30.67%) on investment income which is refundable at a rate of
38.33% (2017 – 38.33%) of each dollar Trade Marks pays out in taxable dividends to its
shareholders. Trade Marks’ provision for income taxes for 2018 includes a recovery of
refundable income tax of $1,284,000 based on its taxable income and dividends paid in 2018.
Under IFRS, refundable income tax is recognized on the income statement when it is paid or
payable and subsequently when it is received or receivable. In 2017, Trade Marks’ provision for
income taxed included a recovery of refundable income tax of $371,000 based on its taxable
income and dividends paid in 2017. Management expects that the remaining $374,000
refundable income tax paid in 2016 will be recovered in future years when sufficient dividends
are paid by Trade Marks.
10
The current income tax provision excluding refundable income tax is $361,000 higher than the
prior year due to an increase in earnings before income taxes and from the increase in British
Columbia’s general corporate tax rate from 19% in 2017 to 20% in 2018.
Deferred income tax is recorded on the temporary differences arising between the tax bases of
assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements.
Deferred income tax is a non-cash item and has no impact in the current year on the Fund’s cash
available to pay distributions.
NET INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Net income and comprehensive income was as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
Net income and comprehensive income
attributable to unitholders of the Fund
Net income and comprehensive income
attributable to Food Services’ non-
controlling interest in Trade Marks
Total net income and comprehensive
income
Period from
Sep 10, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Sep 11, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
Period from
Jan 1, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Jan 1, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
$7,018
$6,269
$23,397
$21,963
2,805
1,891
8,178
6,257
$9,823
$8,160
$31,575
$28,220
DISTRIBUTABLE CASH
The distributable cash and payout ratio measures are provided as they identify the amount of
actual cash generated to pay distributions to unitholders and dividends to Food Services and
provide information regarding the extent to which the Fund distributes cash. The distributable
cash and payout ratios do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may
not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.
Distributable cash is calculated as the operating cash flows of the Fund, adjusted for net changes
in items of working capital. Changes in items of working capital are excluded as the Fund’s
working capital requirements are not permanent and are primarily due to the timing of payments
between related parties. No deduction is made for capital expenditures as the Fund has no capital
expenditures. There are no restrictions on distributions arising from compliance with financial
covenants. The payout ratio is calculated by dividing the total of (i) distributions declared per
unit plus (ii) accrued distributions per unit to the last day of the quarter or year, as applicable, by
the distributable cash per unit generated in that period.
As discussed under “Income Taxes”, Trade Marks’ provision for income taxes includes
refundable income tax paid or recoverable. This refundable income tax is not deducted in
calculating the amount of distributable cash generated, in order to more accurately reflect the
actual amount of cash generated by the business to pay distributions to unitholders and dividends
to Food Services. In 2016 the refundable income tax expense was $2,029,000. There was a
sufficient surplus of cash on hand to pay the refundable income tax. Trade Marks’ provision for
income taxes for 2017 includes a recovery of refundable income tax of $371,000. The 2018
provision includes an additional recovery of $1,284,000. Management expects that the remaining
$374,000 refundable income tax paid in 2016 will be recovered in future years when sufficient
dividends are paid by Trade Marks.
11
The following chart reconciles distributable cash to net cash generated from operating activities
including net changes in items of working capital, the most directly comparable measure
calculated in accordance with IFRS.
dollars in thousands except per unit
amounts)
Period from
Sep 10, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Sep 11, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
Period from
Jan 1, 2018 to
Dec 31, 2018
Period from
Jan 1, 2017 to
Dec 31, 2017
Net cash generated from operating activities
Changes in non-cash working capital
including interest and tax
Distributable cash generated(1)
Cumulative surplus – beginning of period
Distributable cash for unitholders at current
annual distribution rate (2018 - $1.674
per unit, 2017 - $1.605 per unit) (1)
Distributable cash for Food Services at
equivalent annual distribution rate
(2018 - $1.674 per equivalent unit,
2017 - $1.605 per equivalent unit)(1)
Refundable income tax (see “Income
Taxes”)
Cumulative surplus – end of period
Number of equivalent units(1)
Distributable cash generated per equivalent
unit(1)
Monthly distributions declared per unit(2)
Total distributions declared and accrued per
unit
Payout ratio (3)
$9,091
1,125
$10,216
5,792
$8,234
$30,166
$27,054
(115)
$8,119
3,157
1,096
(775)
$31,262
$26,279
3,363
2,417
(6,533)
(6,236)
(20,933)
(19,968)
(2,416)
(1,822)
(7,316)
(5,736)
601
$7,660
145
$3,363
1,284
$7,660
371
$3,363
16,874,762
16,015,038
16,874,762
16,015,038
$0.605
$0.570
$0.522
86.2%
$0.507
$0.541
$0.499
98.4%
$1.853
$1.674
$1.674
90.3%
$1.641
$1.605
$1.605
97.8%
(1) The number of equivalent units and distributable cash per equivalent unit in 2018 includes the 263,472 LP units exchanged for
526,944 common shares of Trade Marks representing the final consideration paid in December 2018 for the January 5, 2018
adjustment to the Royalty Pool. The number of equivalent units and distributable cash per equivalent unit in 2017 includes the
150,665 LP units exchanged for 301,330 common shares of Trade Marks representing the final consideration paid in December
2017 for the January 5, 2017 adjustment to the Royalty Pool.
(2) In accordance with the Fund’s Declaration of Trust, the Fund declares and records distributions in respect of any particular
calendar month at the beginning of the immediate subsequent month, with the exception of the distribution for December of each
year, which is declared and recorded in December of each year. Distributions in respect of any particular calendar month are
paid on the last business day of the immediate subsequent month. The distributions declared in the first quarter of each year are
in respect of the calendar months January and February.
(3) The payout ratio is calculated by dividing the total distributions per unit (which includes distributions declared and distributions
accrued to the last day of the quarter or year, as applicable) by distributable cash per unit generated in that period. This
information is provided as it identifies the extent to which distributable cash is distributed to unitholders and Food Services.
Distributable cash generated in the fourth quarter of 2018 to pay distributions to unitholders and
dividends to Food Services was $10,216,000 compared to $8,119,000 in the fourth quarter of
2017. Distributable cash generated in 2018 was $31,262,000 compared to $26,279,000 in 2017.
The $4,983,000 annual increase in distributable cash was primarily comprised of the $5,225,000
increase in royalty income and a $164,000 decrease in refinancing fees less the $45,000 net
increase in general and administrative expenses and interest expense, and a $361,000 increase in
the current income tax provision (excluding refundable income tax).
12
Distributable cash generated per equivalent unit increased by 9.8¢ to 60.5¢ per unit in the fourth
quarter of 2018 from 50.7¢ for the fourth quarter of 2017. Annual distributable cash per unit
increased by 21.2¢ to $1.853 per unit in 2018 from $1.641 for 2017. The increase in annual
distributable cash per equivalent unit was due to the increase in royalty income less increases in
cash expenses and current income taxes.
Four monthly distributions totalling 57.0¢ per unit were declared in the fourth quarter of 2018
compared to 54.1¢ per unit in the same quarter of 2017. Total distributions declared in 2018 were
$1.674 per unit compared to $1.605 per unit in 2017, an increase of 4.3%. The Fund’s objective
is to maintain an annual payout ratio at or below 100%, however as the fund strives to provide
unitholders with regular monthly distributions, and as a result of seasonality of sales in A&W
restaurants, the Fund historically experiences seasonal fluctuations in its payout ratio. The annual
payout ratio for 2018 was 90.3% compared to 97.8% for 2017. The following table shows the
trailing four quarter payout ratios for 2016, 2017 and 2018.
The cumulative surplus of distributable cash on reserve at the end of 2018 was $7,660,000,
compared to a reserve of $3,363,000 at the beginning of the year, an increase of $4,297,000.
The Fund’s trustees announced three increases in the monthly distribution rate in 2018: from
13.6¢ per unit to 13.8¢ per unit starting with the April distribution, from 13.8¢ per unit to 14.1¢
per unit starting with the July distribution, and then from 14.1¢ per unit to 14.3¢ per unit starting
with the October distribution. The current monthly distribution rate of 14.3¢ per unit translates
into an annualized distribution rate of $1.716 per unit.
Due to the performance by restaurants in the Royalty Pool, the monthly distribution to
unitholders will increase from 14.3¢ per unit to 14.7¢ per unit beginning with the February 2019
distribution which is payable on March 29, 2019. The new distribution rate translates into an
annualized distribution rate of $1.764 per unit, an increase of 2.8% from the prior level of $1.716
per unit.
The Fund’s policy is to distribute all available cash in order to maximize returns to unitholders
over time, after allowing for reasonable reserves. The Fund’s trustees review distribution levels
on a regular basis and any change in distributions will be implemented with a view to maintain
the continuity of uniform monthly distributions.
13
DISTRIBUTIONS TO UNITHOLDERS
Distributions declared and paid during 2018 were as follows:
(dollars in thousands except per
unit amounts)
Month
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Record date
February 15, 2018
March 15, 2018
April 15, 2018
May 15, 2018
June 15, 2018
July 15, 2018
August 15, 2018
September 15, 2018
October 15, 2018
November 15, 2018
December 15, 2018
December 31, 2018
Amount
$1,701
Per unit
$0.136
1,701
1,701
1,726
1,726
1,725
1,763
1,763
1,763
1,788
1,788
1,788
0.136
0.136
0.138
0.138
0.138
0.141
0.141
0.141
0.143
0.143
0.143
$20,933
$1.674
The December 2018 distribution was declared on December 17, 2018 and paid on January 31,
2019 and is reported as a current liability as at December 31, 2018. On February 5, 2019 the Fund
declared the January 2019 monthly distribution to unitholders of 14.3¢ per unit or $1,788,000,
payable on February 28, 2019.
TAX TREATMENT OF DISTRIBUTIONS
All of the distributions declared in 2018 are designated as non-eligible dividends.
DIVIDENDS ON TRADE MARKS’ COMMON SHARES
During 2018, Trade Marks declared and paid dividends on its voting and non-voting common
shares as follows:
(dollars in thousands except
per share amounts)
Month declared/paid
Per share
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
$0.0680
0.0680
0.0680
0.0690
0.0690
0.0690
0.0705
0.0705
0.0705
0.0715
0.0715
0.0715
$0.8370
Aggregate
amount paid
to the Fund
Aggregate
amount paid
to Food Services
$1,701
$559
1,701
1,701
1,726
1,726
1,725
1,763
1,763
1,763
1,788
1,788
1,788
559
558
566
567
567
579
579
579
587
587
587
$20,933
$6,875
14
In addition to the dividends on voting and non-voting common shares above, Trade Marks
declared and paid to Food Services a special dividend of $441,000 representing the dividends that
Food Services would have received on the 526,944 non-voting common shares issued to Food
Services on December 7, 2018 in relation to the final consideration for the January 5, 2018
adjustment to the Royalty Pool, had such shares been issued on January 5, 2018.
On February 5, 2019 Trade Marks declared an aggregate dividend on its voting and non-voting
common shares of $2,503,000 payable to Food Services and the Fund on February 28, 2019.
SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY RESULTS
The following selected quarterly results, other than “Distributable cash” and “Distributable cash
per equivalent unit”, have been prepared in accordance with IFRS and all dollar amounts are
reported in Canadian currency.
(dollars in thousands except per unit amounts)
Number of restaurants in the Royalty Pool
Q4
2018
896
Q3
2018
896
Q2
2018
896
Q1
2018
896
Royalty income
$13,199
$10,506
$9,154
$8,031
General and administrative expenses
Term loan and other interest expense
Amortization of deferred financing fees
Non cash loss (gain) on interest rate swap
Current income tax expense
Refundable income tax recovery
Deferred income tax expense
Net income
Distributable cash(1)
Number of equivalent units(2)
Distributable cash per equivalent unit(1)(2)
Monthly distributions declared per unit(3)
Number of days in the quarter
(dollars in thousands except per unit amounts)
Number of restaurants in the Royalty Pool
236
788
10
638
1,960
(601)
345
$9,823
$10,216
80
594
8
(278)
1,523
(285)
499
$8,365
$8,307
90
592
7
(30)
1,503
(285)
195
$7,082
$6,969
307
594
8
(659)
1,360
(113)
229
$6,305
$5,770
16,874,762
16,760,352
16,760,352
16,760,352
$0.605
$0.570
113
Q4
2017
861
$0.496
$0.420
84
Q3
2017
861
$0.416
$0.412
84
Q2
2017
861
$0.344
$0.272
84
Q1
2017
861
Royalty income
$11,181
$8,905
$8,224
$7,355
General and administrative expenses
Term loan and other interest expense
Amortization of deferred financing fees
Non cash gain on interest rate swap
Current income tax expense
Refundable income tax recovery
Deferred income tax expense
Net income
Distributable cash(1)
Number of equivalent units(2)
Distributable cash per equivalent unit(1)(2)
Monthly distributions declared per unit(3)
Number of days in the quarter
228
789
11
(464)
1,879
(145)
723
$8,160
$8,119
75
593
8
(1,945)
1,457
(-)
476
$8,241
$6,779
78
597
7
(260)
1,456
(76)
27
$6,395
$6,094
271
604
8
(38)
1,193
(150)
43
$5,424
$5,287
16,015,038
15,950,970
15,950,970
15,950,970
$0.507
$0.541
112
$0.425
$0.399
84
$0.382
$0.399
84
$0.331
$0.266
85
15
(1) Distributable cash and distributable cash per equivalent unit do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and
therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. This information is provided as it identifies
the amount of actual cash available to pay distributions to unitholders and dividends to Food Services. See “Distributable
Cash”.
(2) The number of equivalent units and distributable cash per equivalent unit in 2018 includes the 263,472 LP units exchanged for
526,944 common shares of Trade Marks representing the final consideration paid in December 2018 for the January 5, 2018
adjustment to the Royalty Pool. The number of equivalent units and distributable cash per equivalent unit in 2017 includes the
150,665 LP units exchanged for 301,330 common shares of Trade Marks representing the final consideration paid in
December 2017 for the January 5, 2017 adjustment to the Royalty Pool.
(3) The distribution for December of each year, which is paid on the last business day of January of the following year, is declared
and recorded in the year in which it is earned. Therefore, four monthly distributions are declared in the fourth quarter of each
year, and two monthly distributions are declared in the first quarter of each year.
SELECTED ANNUAL INFORMATION
The following selected annual information, other than “Same store sales growth”, “Total
distributable cash available for distributions and dividends” and “Net income, excluding non-
cash items”, has been prepared in accordance with IFRS and all dollar amounts are reported in
Canadian currency.
(dollars in thousands except per unit
amounts)
Same store sales growth(1)
Number of restaurants in the Royalty Pool
Sales reported by the restaurants in the
Royalty Pool
2018
+9.8%
896
2017
+2.0%
861
2016
+3.4%
838
$1,362,996
$1,188,818
$1,137,820
Royalty income
$40,890
$35,665
$34,135
Total distributable cash generated for
distributions and dividends(2)
Total distributions declared per unit
Net income
Basic and diluted income per weighted
average unit outstanding
Net income, excluding non-cash items(3)
Total assets
Trade Marks’ term loan
$31,262
$1.674
$31,575
$1.871
$32,547
$26,279
$1.605
$28,220
$1.765
$26,816
$24,475
$1.558
$23,916
$1.542
$22,446
$289,733
$255,600
$237,366
$59,869
$59,836
$59,967
(1) Same store sales growth does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to
similar measures presented by other issuers. This information is provided as it is a key driver of growth in the Fund. See
“Sales Performance”.
(2)
(3)
Distributable cash does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar
measures presented by other issuers. This information is provided as it identifies the amount of actual cash available to pay
distributions to unitholders and dividends to Food Services. See “Distributable Cash”.
Net income includes non-cash gains and losses on interest rate swaps, amortization of deferred financing fees and deferred
income taxes. These non-cash items have no impact on the Fund’s ability to pay distributions to unitholders. The Fund’s net
income excluding these non-cash items is presented for information purposes only.
SEASONALITY
Sales at A&W restaurants fluctuate seasonally. In freestanding A&W restaurants, weather,
among other things, impacts sales. In A&W restaurants in shopping centres, sales fluctuate due
to, among other things, higher traffic during the back-to-school and Christmas shopping seasons.
16
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Fund’s policy is to distribute all available cash in order to maximize returns to unitholders
over time, after allowing for reasonable reserves. In light of seasonal variances inherent to the
restaurant industry and fluctuations in business performance, the Fund’s policy is to make equal
distribution payments to unitholders on a monthly basis in order to smooth out these fluctuations.
The Fund’s trustees review distribution levels on a regular basis and any change in distributions
will be implemented with a view to maintain the continuity of uniform monthly distributions. It
is expected that future distributions will continue to be funded entirely by cash flow from
operations and the cash reserve.
Trade Marks has a $2,000,000 demand operating loan facility with a Canadian chartered bank
(the Bank) to fund working capital requirements and for general corporate purposes. Amounts
advanced under the facility bear interest at bank prime rate plus 0.4% and are repayable on
demand. As at December 31, 2018, the amount of the facility available was $2,000,000
(December 31, 2017 - $2,000,000).
On December 22, 2017 Trade Marks entered into an agreement to refinance its $60,000,000 term
loan with the Bank. The new term loan is repayable on December 22, 2022, and contains the
same covenants as the original term loan including the requirement to meet certain earnings
before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and non-cash charges/income (EBITDA) levels
and debt to EBITDA ratios during each trailing four quarter period. Interest only is payable
monthly, providing that Trade Marks’ EBITDA tested quarterly on a trailing four quarters basis
is not less than specified amounts. In the event that EBITDA is less than these specified
amounts, the term loan will be fully amortized over the greater of three years and the remaining
term and repayment will be by way of blended monthly instalments of principal and interest.
Trade Marks is generally prohibited from paying dividends on its common shares if those
dividends would result in a breach of the term loan. Trade Marks was in compliance with all of
its financial covenants as at February 12, 2019, December 31 2018 and December 31, 2017.
Trade Marks uses an interest rate swap agreement to manage risks from fluctuations in interest
rates and facilitate uniform monthly distributions. This instrument is used only for risk
management purposes. Under the interest rate swap, the term loan bears interest at 4.2% per
annum, comprised of 2.8% per annum which is fixed under the swap agreement until December
22, 2022, plus a 1.4% per annum credit charge. Due to the performance of the business during
2018, this rate will be reduced to 1.15%, and depending on the future performance of the
business may be reduced to as low as 0.9%. The fair value of this interest rate swap as at
December 31, 2018 was $1,136,000 unfavourable (December 31, 2017 - $1,465,000
unfavourable) and the change in fair value is recorded in the consolidated statements of income
as a gain on the interest rate swap.
A general security agreement over the assets of Trade Marks has been provided as collateral for
the demand operating loan facility and term loan. The Partnership has provided its guarantee in
favour of the Bank of all of the indebtedness, covenants and obligations of Trade Marks to the
Bank.
17
The following is a summary of contractual obligations payable by the Fund:
Payments due by period
(dollars in thousands)
Term loan
Total
$60,000
Less than
1 year
$0
1 – 3
years
$0
4 – 5
years
$60,000
After 5
years
$0
The Fund, Trade Marks and the Partnership have no other contractual or purchase obligations
except as described under the section “Related Party Transactions and Balances”. The Fund,
Trade Marks and the Partnership do not have any capital expenditures; their operating and
administrative expenses are expected to be stable and reasonably predictable and are considered
to be in the ordinary course of business.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
The Fund, Trade Marks and the Partnership have no off-balance sheet arrangements.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES
During the 2018 year, royalty income of $40,890,000 (2017 - $35,665,000) was earned from
Food Services of which $3,262,000 (December 31, 2017 - $2,742,000) is receivable at December
31, 2018. Royalty income earned during the fourth quarter was $13,199,000 (2017 –
$11,181,000).
During the 2018 year, Trade Marks declared and paid dividends to Food Services of $7,316,000
(2017 - $5,684,000). Dividends declared payable to Food Services during the fourth quarter
were $2,202,000 (2017 - $2,059,000).
Other related party transactions and balances are referred to elsewhere in this MD&A.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS
A significant area requiring the use of a management estimate is the fair value of the interest rate
swap. However, this estimate is not a “critical accounting estimate” as (i) it does not require the
Fund to make assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time the estimate is
made, and (ii) a different estimate that could have been used, or changes in the accounting
estimates that are reasonably likely to occur from period to period, would not have had a material
impact on the Fund’s financial condition, changes in financial condition or financial
performance.
The fair value of the interest rate swap as at December 31, 2018 was $1,136,000 unfavourable
(December 31, 2017 - $1,465,000 unfavourable) and the change in fair value is recorded in the
consolidated statements of income as a gain on interest rate swaps.
NEW STANDARDS ADOPTED
IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments
The Fund has adopted IFRS 9 effective January 1, 2018, retrospectively without restatement of
comparatives. The new standard replaces IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and
Measurement. The Fund classifies all its financial assets and liabilities at amortized cost. Under
IFRS 9, the Fund assesses on a forward looking basis the expected credit losses associated with
financial assets carried at amortized cost. The impairment methodology applied depends on
whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk. For trade receivables, the Fund
applies the simplified approach permitted by IFRS 9, which requires expected lifetime losses to
18
be recognised from initial recognition of the receivables. The adoption of this standard had no
impact on the consolidated financial statement and no adjustments to opening retained earnings
as at January 1, 2018 were necessary.
IFRS 15 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers
The Fund has adopted IFRS 15 effective January 1, 2018, using the full retrospective method
without the use of practical expedients. The timing of the recognition of revenue has not
changed as a result of adopting the new guidance. The adoption of this standard had no impact
on the consolidated financial statement and no adjustments to opening retained earnings as at
January 1, 2018 were necessary.
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The Fund’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable,
accounts payable and accrued liabilities, distributions payable to unitholders, the demand
operating loan facility, the term loan, and the interest rate swap. The Fund classifies its financial
instruments as follows:
Cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable as loans and receivables, which are
initially measured at the amount expected to be received, less, when material, a discount
to reduce the loans and receivables to fair value. Subsequently, loans and receivables are
measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method less a provision for
impairment.
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities, distributions payable to unitholders, the demand
operating loan facility and the term loan as financial liabilities. Accounts payable and
accrued liabilities are initially recognized at the amount required to be paid, less, when
material, a discount to reduce the payables to fair value. Subsequently, accounts payable
and accrued liabilities are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method.
Distributions payable to unitholders are recognized at the amount required to be paid.
The demand operating loan facility and the term loan are recognized initially at fair
value, net of any transaction costs incurred, and subsequently at amortized cost using the
effective interest method.
The interest rate swap is a derivative financial instrument and is recorded at fair value
with changes in fair value recorded in the consolidated statements of income.
Management estimates that the fair values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable,
accounts payable and accrued liabilities, distributions payable to unitholders, the demand
operating loan facility and the term loan approximate their carrying values given the short term
to maturity of these instruments. The fair value of the interest rate swap is $1,136,000
unfavourable (2017 - $1,465,000 unfavourable).
The Fund’s trustees have oversight responsibilities for risk management policies. The Fund’s
trustees closely monitor the cash position and internal controls, along with the level of
distributions of the Fund. The Fund, through dividends from Trade Marks, is expected to have
sufficient financial resources to pay future distributions.
The Fund’s exposure to credit risk is as indicated by the carrying amount of its accounts
receivable. All of the accounts receivable relate to royalties due from Food Services to the
Partnership which were paid on January 25, 2019.
19
The primary sources of liquidity risk are the monthly distributions to unitholders and dividends
to Food Services. The Fund’s primary source of funds to pay distributions and dividends is the
3% royalty income it receives from Food Services. Additionally, the Fund manages liquidity
risk by actively monitoring forecast and actual cash flows.
The demand operating loan facility and the term loan bear floating rates of interest. Trade Marks
has used an interest rate swap to fix the rate of interest on the term loan. Cash and cash
equivalents earn interest at market rates. All of the Fund’s other financial instruments are non-
interest bearing.
CAPITAL DISCLOSURE
The Fund’s capital consists of unitholders’ equity and the term loan. The Fund’s capital
management objectives are to have sufficient cash and cash equivalents to pay distributions to its
unitholders, after satisfaction of its debt service and income tax obligations; provisions for
general and administrative expenses; retention of reasonable working capital reserves; and
amounts that may be paid by the Fund in connection with any cash redemptions of units. The
Fund manages its capital structure and makes adjustments to it in light of changes in economic
conditions and the risk characteristics of the underlying assets. In order to maintain or adjust the
capital structure, the Fund may adjust the amount of distributions paid to its unitholders.
DISCLOSURE CONTROLS
Disclosure controls and procedures have been designed, established and maintained to provide
reasonable assurance that (i) material information relating to the Fund is made known to the
Fund’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer
(CFO), particularly during the period in which the annual filings are being prepared; and (ii)
information required to be disclosed by the Fund in its annual filings, interim filings or other
reports filed or submitted by it under applicable securities legislation is recorded, processed,
summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation.
An evaluation of the effectiveness of the Fund’s disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in
Multilateral Instrument 52-109 issued by the Canadian Securities Administrators, was carried out
under the supervision of and with the participation of management, including the CEO and CFO.
Based upon that evaluation, the CEO and the CFO have concluded that the design and operation
of these disclosure controls and procedures were effective in providing reasonable assurance that
(i) material information relating to the Fund is made known to the Fund’s management,
including its CEO and CFO particularly during the period in which the annual filings are being
prepared; and (ii) information required to be disclosed by the Fund in its annual filings, interim
filings or other reports filed or submitted by it under applicable securities legislation is recorded,
processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation.
INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
The CEO and the CFO have designed, or caused to be designed under their supervision, internal
controls over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of the
Fund’s financial reporting and the preparation of its financial statements for external purposes in
accordance with the Fund’s generally accepted accounting principles. The control framework
used to design the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting is “Internal Control –
Integrated Framework: 2013” which was released in May 2013 by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
20
There has been no change in the Fund’s internal controls over financial reporting during the
period covered by this MD&A that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially
affect, the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or
detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only
reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.
RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
Information with regards to the risks and uncertainties applicable to the business operations of
the Fund is contained in the Fund’s most recent Annual Information Form under the heading
“Risk Factors”. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to the Trustees of the
Fund or that are currently not considered to be material also may impair the Fund’s business
operations. If any of the risks actually occur, the Fund’s business, results of operations and
financial condition, and the amount of cash available for distribution to Unitholders, could be
adversely affected.
OUTLOOK
Food Services recently updated its Mission, committing to “be loved for our natural ingredients,
great taste, convenience, and for doing what’s right.” Strategic initiatives, including
repositioning and differentiating the A&W brand through the use of “better ingredients”;
continued rapid new restaurant growth, and delivering an industry leading guest experience, are
key to delivering strong results and improved market share in the quick service restaurants
(QSR) burger market.
A&W has been a leader in the QSR industry, sourcing simple, all-natural ingredients that guests
can feel good about. This focus began in 2013, when Food Services became the first national
QSR in Canada to use only beef raised without the use of hormones and steroids, free of
additives, fillers or preservatives. A&W’s beef is primarily grass-fed and any feed provided is
strictly vegetarian. And the whole Burger Family — from Baby to Uncle® to Grandpa® —
contains 100% pure beef. Over the following years, Food Services began to serve only chicken
raised without the use of antibiotics and enhanced its breakfast menu by moving to eggs from
hens fed a fully vegetarian diet without animal by-products. In January 2015 organic and Fair
Trade coffee was introduced, another first for a national QSR in Canada. In 2016, Food Services
became the first national QSR in Canada to use bacon from pork that is raised without the use of
antibiotics, and announced that A&W restaurants switched to French’s ketchup and mustard,
made with 100% Canadian tomatoes and 100% Canadian mustard seeds. In 2017, A&W
launched the new Root Beer Guarantee. A&W Root Beer served in the restaurants is now made
from natural cane sugar and all-natural flavours - another first for the QSR industry
In Q3 2018, A&W further strengthened its positioning as a leader in food and innovation with
the introduction of the Beyond Meat Burger. Food Services is very excited to be the first
national burger chain in Canada to offer burger lovers across Canada this burger patty made
using 100% plant-based protein including peas, rice, mung beans, coconut oil, pomegranates,
potatoes, apples and beets. The Beyond Meat Burger is great for anyone who wants more plant-
based options in their diet. The demand for this new burger exceeded expectations, leading to a
supply gap which lasted several weeks before the Beyond Meat Burger was relaunched on
October 1, 2018.
21
In Q4 2018, A&W took the next big step in its ingredient journey with a move to using real
cheese on all burgers and breakfast sandwiches. A&W’s real cheeses include cheddar,
mozzarella, jalapeno jack, and cheddar cheese curds, all made in Canada. All processed cheese
has been removed from our menu.
Menu innovations are important to A&W’s success. In February 2017, all-day breakfast was
launched. In 2018, breakfast promotions have featured the new breakfast sandwich recipes along
with promotions on the Classic Breakfast and Bacon & Egger. Burger innovation was on the
menu as well. In addition to the introduction of the Beyond Meat Burgers as a permanent menu
item, limited time offers included the Mushroom Mozzarella Burgers, Cheddar and Roasted
Garlic Burgers, Bourbon Steakhouse Burgers, Wild Caught Cod Burgers, Spicy Guacamole
Burgers and Topped Fries, Cheddar Jalapeno Burgers and the new ‘56 Burgers. These menu
items have been very well received by Food Services’ guests.
Food Services’ continues to rapidly grow new A&W restaurants, particularly in the key Ontario
and Quebec markets. Forty-two new A&W restaurants were opened across the country in 2018.
As of December 31, 2018, an additional sixty-six are under construction or in varying stages of
permitting.
A&W expanded upon its strategy to reach more consumers by joining forces with Uber Eats to
make ordering and enjoying A&W's menu options more convenient and accessible in more parts
of the country. For those who are looking for the convenience of delivery and don't have the
chance to visit a restaurant, it's a new way to enjoy their A&W favourites from the comfort of
home or wherever they might be.
A further important strategic initiative of Food Services is to deliver an industry leading guest
experience. To ensure each guest at an A&W restaurant has a positive experience, Food
Services has introduced changes in its satisfaction measurement and feedback systems, system
level processes, staffing, CLIMATE, and restaurant equipment. This initiative also includes the
ongoing re-imaging and modernizing of our existing restaurants, and innovation in technology.
Including the new restaurants opened in the new design since the beginning of the re-image
program, approximately 98% of A&W’s restaurants now have the new design. A new “Good
Food Makes Good Food” design is now being introduced in restaurants to communicate Food
Services’ ingredients guarantee to its guests. Costs of re-imaging A&W restaurants are borne by
the franchisees and there is no cost to the Fund.
Food Services is also striving to lead the industry in minimizing its environmental footprint.
Changes have been made to food packaging and dine-in customers are served with ceramic and
glass mugs for hot and cold beverages, metal baskets for fries and onion rings, ceramic bowls for
poutine and ceramic plates and stainless steel cutlery for breakfast in an effort to reduce waste
going to landfills. In 2018, Food Services eliminated all plastic straws from all restaurants.
A&W is the first QSR chain in North America to make this commitment. The switch to paper
straws, which are 100% biodegradable, compostable and are sustainably sourced, will keep 82
million plastic straws out of landfills every year.
In summary, with rapid growth of new locations and industry leading innovation, A&W’s brand
positioning is strong. In addition, continued efforts to consistently deliver great food and a better
22
guest experience, in combination with the reimage progress, is contributing to winning guest
visits and building loyalty, and to enhancing performance over the long term.
FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION
Certain statements in this MD&A contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable
securities laws in Canada (forward-looking information). The words “anticipates”, “believes”, “budgets”,
“could”, “estimates”, “expects”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “may”, “might”, “plans”, “projects”, “schedule”,
“should”, “will”, “would” and similar expressions are often intended to identify forward-looking
information, although not all forward-looking information contains these identifying words.
The forward-looking information in this MD&A includes, but is not limited to: the increase in the
monthly distribution to unitholders commencing with the February 2019 distribution, which will be
payable on March 29, 2019; expected future consideration payable on adjustments to the Royalty Pool;
management’s expectation that its refundable income tax will be recovered in future years when sufficient
dividends are paid by Trade Marks; the Fund’s objective to maintain an annual payout ratio at or below
100%; Food Services’ plans to reposition and differentiate A&W in the QSR industry through its use of
“better ingredients”, new restaurant growth, and delivering an industry leading guest experience; Food
Services’ strategic initiatives, including ongoing reimaging and modernizing of existing A&W
restaurants, innovation in technology and minimizing its environmental footprint; Food Services’
continued efforts to consistently deliver great food and a better guest experience, in combination with
reimage progress, contributing to winning guest visits, building loyalty and enhancing performance over
the long term; the Fund’s policy to distribute all available cash in order to maximize returns to unitholders
over time, after allowing for reasonable reserves; any change in the Fund’s distributions will be
implemented with a view to maintain the continuity of uniform monthly distributions; the Fund expects
that future distributions will continue to be funded entirely by cash flow from operations and the cash
reserve; the possibility that the fund may adjust the amount of distributions paid to its unitholders in the
future in order to maintain or adjust the Fund’s capital structure; the reduction in the rate of the per annum
credit charge under the interest rate swap agreement and the potential for further decreases depending on
future performance; the operating and administrative expenses of the Fund, Trade Marks and the
Partnership are expected to be stable and reasonably predictable; the Fund, through dividends from Trade
Marks, is expected to have sufficient financial resources to pay future distributions; and, the number of
new A&W restaurants under construction and the expected timing for their opening.
The forward looking information is based on various assumptions that include, but are not limited to:
the general risks that affect the restaurant industry will not arise;
there are no changes in availability of experienced management and hourly employees;
there are no material changes in government regulations concerning menu labelling and
disclosure and drive-thru restrictions;
no publicity from any food borne illness;
no material changes in competition;
no material changes in the quick service restaurant burger market including as a result of changes
in consumer taste or health concerns or changes in economic conditions or unemployment or a
disease outbreak;
the continued availability of quality raw materials;
continued additional franchise sales and maintenance of franchise operations;
no material impact on sales from closures of “anchor” stores in shopping centres;
no material increases in food and labour costs;
Food Services is able to continue to grow same store sales;
Food Services is able to maintain and grow the current system of franchises;
Food Services is able to locate new retail sites in prime locations;
Food Services is able to obtain qualified operators to become A&W franchisees;
23
franchisees duly pay franchise fees and other amounts;
no closures of A&W restaurants that materially affect the amount of the Royalty;
no material changes in traffic patterns at shopping centres;
no supply disruptions;
no material impact from new or increased sales taxes upon gross sales;
continued availability of key personnel;
continued ability to preserve intellectual property;
no material litigation from guests at A&W restaurants;
Food Services continues to pay the Royalty;
Trade Marks continues to pay dividends on the common shares and the Partnership continues to
make distributions on its units;
Trade Marks can continue to comply with its obligations under its credit arrangements; and,
Trade Marks’ performance does not fluctuate such that cash distributions are affected.
The forward-looking information is subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors related to the quick
service restaurant industry that include, but are not limited to:
the general risks that affect the restaurant industry in general and the quick service segment in
particular;
changes in consumer preferences that adversely affect the consumption of quick service
restaurant hamburgers, chicken, fries, breakfast items or soft drinks;
negative publicity, litigation or complaints from perceived or actual food safety events or other
events involving the foodservice industry in general or A&W restaurants in particular;
changes in the availability and quality of raw materials, including A&W’s “better ingredients;
changes in climate or increases in environmental regulation;
changes in Food Services’ ability to continue to grow same store sales, locate new retail sites in
prime locations and obtain qualified operators to become A&W franchisees;
increases in closures of A&W restaurants adversely affecting the royalty;
decreases in traffic at shopping centers;
changes in Food Services’ ability to pay the royalty due to changes in A&W franchisees’ ability
to generate sales and pay franchise fees and other amounts to Food Services;
changes in government regulation that affects the restaurant industry in general or the quick
service restaurant industry in particular;
changes in the availability of key personnel, including qualified franchise operators;
changes in the ability to enforce or maintain intellectual property;
risks related to technological breakdowns and cybersecurity breaches;
risks related to the amplificatory effects of media and social media; and,
increases in catastrophic events.
The forward-looking information is subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors related to the structure
of the Fund that include, but are not limited to:
dependence of the Fund on Trade Marks, Partnership and Food Services;
dependence of the Partnership on Food Services;
risks related to leverage and restrictive covenants;
the risk that cash distributions are not guaranteed and will fluctuate with the Partnership’s
performance and could be suspended at any time;
risks related to the nature of units;
risks related to the distribution of securities on redemption or termination of the Fund;
risks related to the Fund issuing additional units diluting existing unitholders’ interests; and,
risks related to income tax matters.
24
These risks, uncertainties and other factors are more particularly described above under the heading
“Risks and Uncertainties” and in the Fund’s most recent Annual Information Form under the heading
“Risk Factors”.
All forward-looking information in this MD&A is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement
and, except as required by law, the Fund undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking
information as a result of new information, future events or otherwise after the date hereof.
25
A&W Revenue Royalties
Income Fund
Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(in thousands of dollars)
26 Independent auditor’s report
To the Unitholders of A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Our opinion
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects,
the financial position of A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund and its subsidiaries (together, the Fund) as
at December 31, 2018 and 2017, and its financial performance and its cash flows for the years then ended
in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
What we have audited
The Fund's consolidated financial statements comprise:
the consolidated balance sheets as at December 31, 2018 and 2017;
the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income for the years then ended;
the consolidated statements of unitholders’ equity for the years then ended;
the consolidated statements of cash flows for the years then ended; and
the notes to the consolidated financial statements, which include a summary of significant
accounting policies.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Our
responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit
of the consolidated financial statements section of our report.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our
opinion.
Independence
We are independent of the Fund in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit
of the consolidated financial statements in Canada. We have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in
accordance with these requirements.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
PricewaterhouseCoopers Place, 250 Howe Street, Suite 1400, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6C 3S7
T: +1 604 806 7000, F: +1 604 806 7806
“PwC” refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an Ontario limited liability partnership.
27 Other information
Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the Management's
Discussion and Analysis, which we obtained prior to the date of this auditor's report and the information,
other than the consolidated financial statements and our auditor's report thereon, included in the annual
report, which is expected to be made available to us after that date.
Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not
and will not express an opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read the
other information identified above and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially
inconsistent with the consolidated financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or
otherwise appears to be materially misstated.
If, based on the work we have performed on the other information that we obtained prior to the date of
this auditor’s report, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are
required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. When we read the information, other
than the consolidated financial statements and our auditor's report thereon, included in the annual report,
if we conclude that there is a material misstatement therein, we are required to communicate the matter to
those charged with governance.
Responsibilities of management and those charged with governance for the
consolidated financial statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial
statements in accordance with IFRS, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary
to enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement,
whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Fund's
ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using
the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Fund or to cease
operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Fund’s financial reporting process.
28 Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the consolidated financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements as
a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s
report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee
that an audit conducted in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards will always
detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are
considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the
economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these consolidated financial statements.
As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards, we exercise
professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also:
Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements,
whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and
obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk
of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from
error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the
override of internal control.
Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit
procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an
opinion on the effectiveness of the Fund’s internal control.
Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting
estimates and related disclosures made by management.
Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and,
based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or
conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Fund’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we
conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report
to the related disclosures in the consolidated financial statements or, if such disclosures are
inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to
the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Fund to cease
to continue as a going concern.
Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the consolidated financial statements,
including the disclosures, and whether the consolidated financial statements represent the
underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.
Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or
business activities within the Fund to express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements.
We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the group audit. We remain
solely responsible for our audit opinion.
We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope
and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal
control that we identify during our audit.
29 We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant
ethical requirements regarding independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other
matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where applicable, related
safeguards.
The engagement partner on the audit resulting in this independent auditor’s report is Robert Coard.
(Signed) “PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP”
Chartered Professional Accountants
Vancouver, British Columbia
February 15, 2019
30 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Consolidated Balance Sheets
As at December 31, 2018 and 2017
(in thousands of dollars)
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable
Prepaid interest
Income taxes recoverable
Non-current assets
Intangible assets
Total assets
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Distributions payable to Unitholders
Income taxes payable
Non-current liabilities
Term loan
Fair value of interest rate swap
Deferred income tax liabilities
Unitholders’ Equity
Fund Units
Accumulated deficit
Non-controlling interest
Total equity
Total liabilities and equity
Subsequent events
Note
12
4
10
5
5
6
7
15
2018
$
4,538
3,262
508
1,513
9,821
2017
$
2,534
2,742
391
-
5,667
279,912
289,733
249,933
255,600
399
1,788
-
2,187
59,869
1,136
14,053
77,245
263,452
(154,125)
109,327
103,161
212,488
289,733
476
1,701
154
2,331
59,836
1,465
12,784
76,416
263,452
(156,589)
106,863
72,321
179,184
255,600
On behalf of the Board of Trustees
(signed) John R. McLernon
Trustee
(signed) Richard N. McKerracher
Trustee
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
31
A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income
For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
(in thousands of dollars except per Unit amounts)
Gross sales reported by the A&W restaurants in the
Royalty Pool
Royalty income
Expenses
General and administrative
Interest expense
Term loan and other
Amortization of financing fees
Operating income
Gain on interest rate swap
Income before income taxes
Provision for (recovery of) income taxes
Current
Current income tax provision
Refundable income tax
Deferred
Net income and comprehensive income for the year
Net income and comprehensive income attributable to
Unitholders of A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.’s non-controlling interest in
A&W Trade Marks Inc.
Note
2018
$
2017
$
1,362,996
1,188,818
40,890
35,665
5
6
6
6
713
2,568
33
3,314
37,576
(329)
37,905
6,346
(1,284)
1,268
6,330
31,575
23,397
8,178
31,575
654
2,583
33
3,270
32,395
(2,708)
35,103
5,985
(371)
1,269
6,883
28,220
21,963
6,257
28,220
Basic and diluted income per weighted average Unit
outstanding
1.871
1.765
Weighted average number of Units outstanding
12,504,673
12,441,263
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
32 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Consolidated Statements of Unitholders’ Equity
For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
(in thousands of dollars)
Note
Fund
Units
$
Accumulated
deficit
$
Non-
controlling
interest
$
Total
$
Total
equity
$
Balance as at
December 31, 2016
Net income for the year
Distributions on Units
Dividends on common shares
Issue of common shares
Common shares exchanged
for units
Balance as at
December 31, 2017
Net income for the year
Distributions on Units
Dividends on common shares
Issue of common shares
Balance as at
December 31, 2018
10
12
4
7
10
12
4
248,800
(151,694)
97,106
62,289
159,395
-
-
-
-
21,963
(20,020)
-
-
21,963
(20,020)
-
-
14,652
(6,838)
7,814
6,257
-
(5,684)
17,273
(7,814)
28,220
(20,020)
(5,684)
17,273
-
263,452
(156,589)
106,863
72,321
179,184
-
-
-
-
23,397
(20,933)
-
-
23,397
(20,933)
-
-
8,178
-
(7,316)
29,978
31,575
(20,933)
(7,316)
29,978
263,452
(154,125)
109,327
103,161
212,488
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
33 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
(in thousands of dollars)
Cash provided by (used in)
Operating activities
Net income for the year
Adjustments for:
Non-cash gain on interest rate swap
Amortization of financing fees
Interest expense
Deferred income tax
Refundable income tax recovery
Current income tax provision
Net changes in items of non-cash working capital
Interest paid
Income taxes paid
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash flows used in financing activities
Financing fees paid
Repayment use of demand operating loan facility
Dividends paid to non-controlling interest
Distributions paid to Unitholders
Net cash used in financing activities
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents – Beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents – End of year
Note
2018
$
2017
$
9
5
31,575
28,220
(329)
33
2,568
1,268
(1,284)
6,346
(597)
(2,685)
(6,729)
(2,708)
33
2,583
1,269
(371)
5,985
(12)
(2,668)
(5,278)
30,166
27,053
-
-
(7,316)
(20,846)
(28,162)
2,004
2,534
4,538
(164)
(490)
(5,684)
(19,932)
(26,270)
783
1,751
2,534
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
34 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
1 General information
A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund (the Fund) is a limited purpose trust established on December 18, 2001
with an unlimited number of Trust Units (Units) under the laws of the Province of British Columbia pursuant to
the Declaration of Trust. The Fund is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AW.UN. The
Fund’s place of business is located at 300 – 171 West Esplanade, North Vancouver, BC. The Fund was
established to invest in A&W Trade Marks Inc. (Trade Marks), which through its ownership interest in A&W
Trade Marks Limited Partnership (the Partnership) owns the A&W trade-marks used in the A&W quick service
restaurant business in Canada.
The Partnership has granted A&W Food Services of Canada Inc. (Food Services) a licence (the Amended and
Restated Licence and Royalty Agreement) to use the A&W trade-marks in Canada for a term expiring December
30, 2100, for which Food Services pays a royalty of 3% of sales reported to Food Services by specific A&W
restaurants (the Royalty Pool). Food Services is a franchisor of hamburger quick service restaurants in Canada.
2 Basis of preparation
The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are set
out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented unless otherwise stated.
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and the IFRS
Interpretations Committee (IFRIC).
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting
estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgment in the process of applying the accounting
policies. Those areas involving a higher degree of judgment or complexity, or areas where assumptions and
estimates are significant to the consolidated financial statements, are disclosed in note 3.
These consolidated financial statements were authorized for issue by the Board of Trustees of the Fund on
February 12, 2019.
3
Significant accounting policies, judgments and estimation uncertainty
Basis of measurement
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, except for the
revaluation of the interest rate swap to fair value through the consolidated statements of income.
(1)
35 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
Consolidation
The financial statements include the accounts of the Fund and its 74.1% interest in Trade Marks and its
subsidiary, the Partnership (together the subsidiaries). The Fund controls its subsidiaries when it is exposed to
or it has rights to variable returns from its involvement with its subsidiaries and has the ability to affect those
returns through its power over the subsidiaries.
Changes in the Fund’s ownership interest in subsidiaries that do not result in a loss of control are accounted for
as equity transactions.
Non-controlling interest
The non-controlling interest represents an equity interest in Trade Marks owned by Food Services. The share of
net assets of the Fund’s subsidiary attributable to non-controlling interest is presented as a component of
equity. Food Services’ share of net income and comprehensive income is recognized directly in equity.
Functional and presentation currency
These consolidated financial statements are presented in Canadian dollars, which is the functional currency of
the Fund and its subsidiaries.
Use of estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying
notes. A significant area requiring the use of a management estimate is the fair value of the interest rate swap.
However, this estimate is not a “critical accounting estimate” as (i) it does not require the Fund to make
assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time the estimate is made, and (ii) a different
estimate that could have been used, or changes in the accounting estimate that are reasonably likely to occur
from period to period, would not have had a material impact on the Fund’s financial condition, changes in
financial condition or financial performance.
New standards adopted
The Fund has applied the following new standards for the first time for its annual reporting period commencing
January 1, 2018:
IFRS 15, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, has been adopted January 1, 2018, using the full
retrospective method without the use of practical expedients. The timing of the recognition of revenue has not
changed as a result of adopting the new guidance. The adoption of this standard had no impact on the
consolidated financial statements and no adjustments to opening retained earnings as at January 1, 2018 were
necessary.
(2)
36 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
IFRS 9, Financial Instruments, has been adopted effective January 1, 2018, retrospectively without restatement
of comparatives. The new standard replaces IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement.
Under IFRS 9, the Fund assesses on a forward looking basis the expected credit losses associated with financial
assets carried at amortized cost. The impairment methodology applied depends on whether there has been a
significant increase in credit risk. For trade receivables, the Fund applies the simplified approach permitted by
IFRS 9, which requires expected lifetime losses to be recognized from initial recognition of the receivables. The
adoption of this standard had no impact on the consolidated financial statements and no adjustments to
opening retained earnings as at January 1, 2018 were necessary.
New standards and interpretations not yet adopted
IFRS 16 was issued in January 2016. It will result in almost all leases being recognized on the balance sheets by
lessees as the distinction between operating and finance leases is removed. Under the new standard, an asset
(the right to use the leased item) and a financial liability to pay rentals are recognized. The only exceptions are
short-term and low-value leases. The adoption of this standard will not have a material impact on the
consolidated financial statements.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, balances with banks, and short-term investments with an
original maturity date of three months or less.
Accounts receivable
Accounts receivable are amounts due from Food Services for services performed in the ordinary course of
business. These amounts are classified as current because collection is expected in one year or less. Accounts
receivable are recognized initially at the amount expected to be received, less, when material, a discount to
reduce the recoverable amount to fair value. Subsequently, accounts receivable are measured at amortized cost
using the effective interest method less a provision for the impairment.
Intangible assets - trade-marks
The intangible assets are the A&W trade-marks, which have an indefinite useful life that was originally recorded
at fair value at the date of acquisition. The assets are subject to an impairment test annually or earlier if events
and circumstances dictate as required by International Accounting Standards (IAS) 36, Impairment of Assets.
An impairment loss is recognized whenever the carrying amount of the intangible assets exceeds its recoverable
amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use.
Impairment losses are recognized in the consolidated statements of income.
(3)
37 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
Impairment of financial assets
At each reporting date, the Fund assesses whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset is impaired.
If such evidence exists, the Fund recognizes an impairment loss.
The amount of the loss, if any, is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the
present value of estimated future cash flows (excluding future credit losses that have not been incurred)
discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate. The carrying amount of the asset is reduced
and the amount of the loss is recognized in the consolidated statements of income. If a loan has a variable
interest rate, the discount rate for measuring any impairment loss is the current effective interest rate
determined under the contract.
If, in a subsequent period, the amount of the impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be related
objectively to an event occurring after the impairment was recognized (such as an improvement in the debtor’s
credit rating), the reversal of the previously recognized impairment loss is recognized in the consolidated
statements of income.
Income per Fund Unit
The Fund’s income per Unit is based on the net income attributable to Fund Unitholders and the weighted
average number of Units outstanding during the period.
Interest rate swaps
The Fund uses interest rate swap agreements to manage risks from fluctuations in interest rates. All such
instruments are used only for risk management purposes. Changes in the fair value of the Fund’s interest rate
swap agreements are recognized in the consolidated statements of income in accordance with the terms of the
agreements (note 5).
Income taxes
Income tax comprises current and deferred tax and is recognized in the consolidated statements of income.
Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or
substantively enacted at the balance sheet date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.
The Fund uses the weighted average tax rate of its subsidiaries. The Fund, as a legal entity, is not currently
taxed on its income, as it receives dividends from Trade Marks which are not subject to the Specified
Investment Flow-Through (SIFT) tax. Therefore, Trade Marks’ substantively enacted tax rate is used.
In general, deferred tax is recognized in respect of temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets
and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. Deferred income tax is
determined on a non-discounted basis using tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted
at the balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the deferred tax asset or liability is settled. Deferred
tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that the assets can be recovered. Deferred income tax
assets and liabilities are presented as non-current.
(4)
38 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
Revenue recognition
Revenue is recognized on an accrual basis in accordance with the relevant agreements. It comprises royalty
income equal to 3% of reported sales from specific A&W restaurants in Canada that are in the Royalty Pool.
Interest paid
Cash flows relating to interest paid have been classified as operating activities in the consolidated statements of
cash flows.
Financial instruments
Financial assets and liabilities are recognized when the Fund becomes a party to the contractual provisions of
the instrument. Financial assets and liabilities are derecognized when the rights to receive or obligation to pay
cash flows from the assets or liabilities have expired or been settled or have been transferred and the Fund has
transferred substantially all risks and rewards of ownership.
The Fund classifies its financial instruments in the following categories:
a)
Financial assets and liabilities at amortized cost (2017 – loans and receivables): The Fund classifies its
financial assets at amortized cost only if both of the following criteria are met:
i)
The asset is held within a business model whose objective is to collect the contractual cash flows and,
ii) The contractual terms give rise to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest.
The Fund’s financial assets and liabilities at amortized cost (2017 –loans and receivables) comprise cash
and cash equivalents and accounts receivable and are included in current assets due to their short-term
nature. Financial assets and liabilities at amortized cost (2017 – loans and receivables) are initially
recognized at the amount expected to be received less, when material, a discount to reduce the loans and
receivables to fair value. Subsequently, financial assets and liabilities at amortized cost (2017 – loans and
recivables) are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method less a provision for
impairment.
Financial liabilities at amortized cost include accounts payable and accrued liabilities, distributions
payable to Unitholders, income taxes payable, the demand operating loan facility and the term loan.
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities are initially recognized at the amount required to be paid less,
when material, a discount to reduce payables to fair value. Subsequently, accounts payable and accrued
liabilities are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Distributions payable are
recognized at the amount required to be paid. The demand operating loan facility and the term loan are
recognized initially at fair value, net of any transaction costs incurred, and subsequently at amortized cost
using the effective interest method.
Financial liabilities are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within 12 months. Otherwise, they
are presented as non-current liabilities.
(5)
39 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
Fees paid on the establishment of loan facilities are recognized as transaction costs of the loan to the extent
that it is probable that some or all of the facility will be drawn down. In this case, the fee is deferred until
the drawdown occurs at which point it is netted against proceeds as a transaction cost. To the extent there
is no evidence that it is probable that some or all of the facility will be drawn down, the fee is capitalized as
a pre-payment for liquidity services and amortized over the period of the facility to which it relates.
b)
Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI): Financial assets at FVOCI
comprise:
i)
Equity securities which are not held for trading and which the Fund has irrevocably elected at initial
recognition to recognize in this category,
ii) Debt securities where the contractual cash flows are solely principal and interest and the objective of
the Fund’s business model is achieved both by collecting contractual cash flows and selling financial
assets.
The Fund currently has not classified any of its financial instruments as FVOCI.
c)
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss (FVPL): The Fund classifies the following financial
assets at FVPL:
i)
Debt instruments that do not qualify for measurement at either amortized cost or FVOCI,
ii) Equity instruments that are held for trading, and,
iii) Equity instruments for which the Fund has not elected to recognize fair value gains and losses
through other comprehensive income.
The Fund’s financial assets classified as FVPL include derivative financial instruments: The Fund utilizes
derivative financial instruments in the normal course of its operations as a means to manage risks from
fluctuations in interest rates. The Fund records all derivatives (2017 - at fair value through net income),
and its policy is to not utilize derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. The
Fund’s derivatives are interest rate swaps with changes in fair value recorded in the consolidated
statements of income.
(6)
40 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
4
Intangible assets
Number of
new
restaurants
Number of
closed
restaurants
Number of
restaurants
in Royalty
Pool
Balance as at December 31, 2016
Annual adjustment January 5, 2017
Balance as at December 31, 2017
Annual adjustment January 5, 2018
955
30
985
42
Balance as at December 31, 2018
1,027
(117)
(7)
(124)
(7)
( 131)
838
23
861
35
896
Amount
$
232,660
17,273
249,933
29,979
279,912
The intangible assets are the A&W trade-marks used in the A&W quick service restaurant business in Canada.
The Royalty Pool is adjusted annually to reflect sales from new A&W restaurants, net of the sales of any A&W
restaurants that have permanently closed. The consideration paid to Food Services for the additional royalty
stream related to the sales of the net new restaurants is based on a formula set out in the Amended and
Restated Licence and Royalty Agreement. The formula provides for a payment to Food Services based on 92.5%
of the amount of estimated sales from the net new restaurants and the current yield on the Units of the Fund,
adjusted for income taxes payable by Trade Marks. The consideration is paid to Food Services in the form of
additional partnership units (LP units). The additional LP units are, at the option of Food Services,
exchangeable for additional shares of Trade Marks which are in turn exchangeable for Units of the Fund on the
basis of two common shares for one Unit of the Fund. The consideration paid for the annual adjustment to the
Royalty Pool is recorded as an increase in the value of the A&W trade-marks.
The 16th annual adjustment to the Royalty Pool took place on January 5, 2018. The number of A&W
restaurants in the Royalty Pool was increased by 42 new restaurants less seven restaurants that permanently
closed during 2017. The Partnership paid Food Services $20,791,000, by issuance of 596,251 LP units to Food
Services, representing 80% of the initial consideration based on the estimated annual sales of the net new
restaurants. The LP units were subsequently exchanged for 1,192,502 non-voting common shares of Trade
Marks.
The final adjustment to the number of LP units issued was made on December 7, 2018 based on the actual
annual sales reported by the new restaurants. The actual annual sales of the 42 new A&W restaurants were
$63,783,000 compared to the original estimate of $55,642,000. As a result, $5,198,000 representing the
remaining 20% of the initial consideration and additional consideration of $3,989,000 were paid to Food
Services by issuance of 263,472 additional LP units, which were exchanged for 526,944 non-voting common
shares of Trade Marks.
(7)
41 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
5 Term loan and operating loan facility
Trade Marks has a $2,000,000 demand operating loan facility with a Canadian chartered bank (the Bank) to
fund working capital requirements and for general corporate purposes. Amounts advanced under the facility
bear interest at the bank prime rate plus 0.4% and are repayable on demand. As at December 31, 2018, the
amount of the facility available was $2,000,000 (2017 – $2,000,000).
On December 22, 2017, Trade Marks entered into an agreement to refinance its $60,000,000 term loan with
the Bank. The original term loan matured on December 22, 2017 and the new term loan is repayable on
December 22, 2022. The new term loan contains the same covenants as the original term loan, including the
requirement to meet certain earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and non-cash
charges/income (EBITDA) levels and debt to EBITDA ratios during each trailing four quarter period. Interest
only is payable monthly, providing that Trade Marks’ EBITDA tested quarterly on a trailing four quarter basis is
not less than specified amounts. In the event that EBITDA is less than these specified amounts, the term loan
will be fully amortized over the greater of three years and the remaining term and repayment will be by way of
blended monthly instalments of principal and interest. Trade Marks was in compliance with all of its financial
covenants as at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.
Trade Marks uses interest rate swap agreements to manage risks from fluctuations in interest rates. Trade
Marks has entered into an interest rate swap, with an effective date of December 22, 2015 and a maturity date
of December 22, 2022. Under this interest rate swap, the term loan bears interest at 4.2% per annum,
comprising 2.8% per annum which is fixed under the swap agreement until December 22, 2022 plus a 1.4% per
annum credit charge. The fair value of this interest rate swap as at December 31, 2018 was $1,136,000
unfavourable (2017 – $1,465,000 unfavourable) and the change in fair value is recorded in the consolidated
statements of income as a gain on interest rate swaps.
A general security agreement over the assets of Trade Marks has been provided as collateral for the demand
operating loan facility and term loan. The Partnership has provided its guarantee in favour of the Bank of all the
indebtedness, covenants and obligations of Trade Marks to the Bank.
The term loan comprises:
Term loan
Financing fees
2018
$
60,000
(131)
59,869
2017
$
60,000
(164)
59,836
(8)
42
A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
6
Income taxes
a)
The provision for income taxes shown in the consolidated statements of income is equal to the amount
obtained by applying statutory tax rates to the income before income taxes:
Statutory combined federal and provincial income tax rates
on investment income
Provision for income taxes based on statutory income
tax rates
Refundable tax
Rate change on deferred income taxes
Provision for income taxes
b) Deferred income tax liabilities comprise the following:
Timing difference of income of A&W Trade Marks
Limited Partnership
Fair value of interest rate swaps
Intangible assets
7
Fund Units
2018
20%
$
7,614
(1,284)
-
6,330
2018
$
(1,004)
227
(13,276)
(14,053)
2017
19.0%
$
6,670
(371)
584
6,883
2017
$
(231)
278
(12,831)
(12,784)
The Declaration of Trust provides that an unlimited number of Units may be issued. Each Unit is transferable
and represents an equal undivided beneficial interest in any distributions of the Fund and in the net assets of
the Fund. All Units have equal rights and privileges. Each Unit entitles the holder thereof to participate equally
in allocations and distributions and to one vote at all meetings of Unitholders for each whole Unit held. The
Units issued are not subject to future calls or assessments.
Units are redeemable at any time at the option of the holder at amounts related to market prices at the time,
subject to a maximum of $50,000 in total cash redemptions by the Fund in any one month. The limitation may
be waived at the discretion of the Trustees of the Fund. Redemption in excess of these amounts, assuming no
limitation, shall be paid by way of distribution of a pro rata number of securities of Trade Marks held by the
Fund.
(9)
43 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
On March 3, 2017, Food Services exchanged 746,600 common shares of Trade Marks for 373,300 Units of the
Fund, which were then sold at a price of $39.25 per Unit. The Fund did not receive any proceeds of the sale of
the Units. Following the sale of these Units, Food Services owned approximately 21.2% of the Units of the Fund
on a fully-diluted basis.
Balance as at December 31, 2016
Units issued in exchange for common shares of
A&W Trade Marks Inc.
Balance as at December 31, 2017
Balance as at December 31, 2018
Number of
Units
12,131,373
373,300
12,504,673
12,504,673
Equity
$
248,800
14,652
263,452
263,242
Following the 2018 annual adjustment to the Royalty Pool on January 5, 2018 and the final adjustment to the
number of LP units on December 7, 2018, Food Services owns approximately 25.9% of the Units of the Fund on
a fully diluted basis.
(10)
44 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
8 A&W Trade Marks Inc.
The common shares of Trade Marks are owned by the Fund and Food Services as follows:
The Fund
Food Services
Number of
shares
Amount
$
%
Number of
shares
Amount
$
%
Number of
shares
Total
Amount
$
Balance as at
December 31,
2016
January 5, 2017
adjustment to
the Royalty
Pool
March 3, 2017
exchange of
common shares
for units of the
Fund
Balance as at
December 31,
2017
January 5, 2018
adjustment to
the Royalty
Pool
Balance as at
December 31,
2018
24,262,671
114,680
78.2
6,773,229
66,099
21.8
31,035,900
180,779
-
- (2.4)
994,102
17,273 2.4
994,102
17,273
746,600
7,814 2.3
(746,600)
(7,814) (2.3)
-
-
25,009,271
122,494
78.1
7,020,731
75,558
21.9
32,030,002
198,052
-
-
(4.0)
1,719,446
29,978
4.0
1,719,446
29,978
25,009,271
122,494
74.1
8,740,177
105,536
25.9
33,749,448
228,030
The summarized financial information of Trade Marks is as follows:
Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Revenue
Net income and comprehensive income
2018
$
6,832
279,912
398
73,839
40,890
31,575
2017
$
3,965
249,934
630
74,067
35,665
28,221
(11)
45 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars, except per Unit amounts)
9 Working capital
Net changes in items of non-cash working capital are as follows:
Accounts receivable
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
10 Distributions
2018
$
(520)
(77)
(597)
2017
$
(275)
263
(12)
During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Fund declared distributions to its Unitholders of $20,933 or
$1.674 per Unit (2017 – $20,020 or $1.605 per Unit). The record dates and amounts of these distributions are
as follows:
Month
January 2018
February 2018
March 2018
April 2018
May 2018
June 2018
July 2018
August 2018
September 2018
October 2018
November 2018
December 2018
Record
date
Amount
$
Per Unit
$
February 15, 2018
March 15, 2018
April 15, 2018
May 15, 2018
June 15, 2018
July 15, 2018
August 15, 2018
September 15, 2018
October 15, 2018
November 15, 2018
December 15, 2018
December 31, 2018
1,701
1,701
1,701
1,726
1,726
1,725
1,763
1,763
1,763
1,788
1,788
1,788
20,933
0.136
0.136
0.136
0.138
0.138
0.138
0.141
0.141
0.141
0.143
0.143
0.143
1.674
The December 2018 distribution was declared on December 17, 2018 and paid on January 31, 2019, and is
reported as a current liability as at December 31, 2018.
11 Compensation to key management
Key management personnel are the Trustees of the Fund. During the year, the Trustees earned $121,000
(2017 - $112,000).
(12)
46 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
12 Related party transactions and balances
During the year, royalty income of $40,890,000 (2017 - $35,665,000) was earned from Food Services, of which
$3,262,000 (2017 - $2,742,000) is receivable at December 31, 2018.
During the year, Trade Marks paid dividends to Food Services of $7,316,000 (2017 - $5,684,000). The
dividends paid to Food Services in 2018 include special dividends of $441,000 representing the dividends that
Food Services would have received on the 527,994 non-voting common shares issued to Food Services on
December 7, 2018 in relation to the final consideration for the January 5, 2018 adjustment to the Royalty Pool
(note 4), had they been issued on January 5, 2018. In 2017, Trade Marks paid special dividends of $221,000 to
Food Services representing the dividends that Food Services would have received on the 301,330 non-voting
common shares issued to Food Services on December 8, 2017 in relation to the final consideration for the
January 5, 2017 adjustment to the Royalty Pool had they been issued on January 5, 2017.
13 Financial instruments and financial risk management
Fair values
Management estimates that the fair values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable
and accrued liabilities, distributions payable to Unitholders, the demand operating loan facility and the term
loan approximate their carrying values given the short term to maturity of these instruments. The fair value of
the interest rate swap is $1,136,000 unfavourable (2017 – $1,465,000 unfavourable).
Fair value estimation
The Fund analyses financial instruments carried at fair value by the valuation method. The different levels have
been identified as follows:
Level 1 - Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets and liabilities;
Level 2 - Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or
liability, either directly or indirectly derived from prices; and
Level 3 - Inputs from the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (that is,
unobservable inputs).
The interest rate swap is measured at fair value as a Level 3 financial instrument and is measured using
valuation techniques. These valuation techniques utilize significant inputs that are not based on observable
market data.
Credit risk
The Fund’s exposure to credit risk is as indicated by the carrying amount of its accounts receivable. All of the
accounts receivable relate to royalties due from Food Services to the Partnership which were paid on
January 25, 2019.
(13)
47 A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
December 31, 2018 and 2017
(figures in tables are expressed in thousands of dollars)
Liquidity risk
The primary sources of liquidity risk are the monthly distributions to Unitholders and dividends to Food
Services. The Fund’s primary source of funds to pay distributions and dividends is the 3% royalty income it
receives from Food Services. Additionally, the Fund manages liquidity risk by actively monitoring forecast and
actual cash flows.
Interest rate risk
The demand operating loan facility and the term loan bear floating rates of interest as disclosed in note 5. Trade
Marks has used an interest rate swap to fix the rate of interest on the term loan. Cash and cash equivalents earn
interest at market rates. All of the Fund’s other financial instruments are non-interest bearing.
14 Capital disclosures
The Fund’s capital consists of Unitholders’ equity and the term loan. The Fund’s capital management objectives
are to have sufficient cash and cash equivalents to pay distributions to its Unitholders, after satisfaction of its
debt service and income tax obligations; provisions for general and administrative expenses; retention of
reasonable working capital reserves; and amounts that may be paid by the Fund in connection with any cash
redemption of Units. The Fund manages its capital structure and makes adjustments to it in light of changes in
economic conditions and the risk characteristics of the underlying assets. In order to maintain or adjust the
capital structure, the Fund may adjust the amount of its distributions paid to Unitholders.
15 Subsequent events
On January 5, 2019, the number of A&W restaurants in the Royalty Pool was increased by 46 new restaurants
less eight restaurants that permanently closed during 2018. The initial consideration for the estimated royalty
revenue from the net 38 restaurants added to the Royalty Pool is $27,305,000. The Partnership paid Food
Services $21,844,000 by issuance of 627,514 LP units, representing 80% of the initial consideration. The LP
units were exchanged for 1,255,028 non-voting common shares of Trade Marks. The remaining 20% or
$5,461,000 and a final adjustment to the consideration based on the actual annual sales reported by the new
restaurants will be paid in December 2018 by issuance of additional LP units, which may be exchanged for
non-voting common shares of Trade Marks.
On February 5, 2019, Trade Marks declared dividends on its voting and non-voting common shares of
$2,503,000 payable to Food Services and the Fund on February 28, 2019.
On February 5, 2019, the Fund declared a distribution to Unitholders of $0.143 per Unit or $1,788,000, payable
on February 28, 2019 to Unitholders of record as at February 15, 2019.
(14)
48 Unitholder Information
Corporate Head Office
Market Information
Units Listed: Toronto Stock Exchange
Symbol: AW.UN
Registrar and Transfer Agent
Computershare Investor Services Inc.
Investor Enquiries
Don Leslie
Chief Financial Officer
Tel: 604-988-2141
Fax: 604-988-5531
E-mail: investorrelations@aw.ca
Website: www.awincomefund.ca
A&W Trade Marks Inc.
c/o 26th Floor
Toronto-Dominion Bank Tower
700 West Georgia Street
Vancouver, BC, V7Y 1B3
Mailing Address
A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
300 – 171 West Esplanade
North Vancouver, BC, V7M 3K9
A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund
Board of Trustees
John R. McLernon (1)
Richard N. McKerracher (1)
Hugh R. Smythe (1)
A&W Trade Marks Inc.
Board of Directors
(2)
John R. McLernon
Chairman
Richard N. McKerracher (2)
Hugh R. Smythe (2)
Paul F.B. Hollands
David A. Mindell
Committees of the Board
(1)Audit Committee and
(2) Governance Committee
49
50