Quarterlytics / Consumer Cyclical / Restaurants / Alsea, S.A.B. de C.V. / FY2003 Annual Report

Alsea, S.A.B. de C.V.
Annual Report 2003

ALSSF · OTC Consumer Cyclical
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Sector Consumer Cyclical
Industry Restaurants
Employees 10,000+
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FY2003 Annual Report · Alsea, S.A.B. de C.V.
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ANNUAL REPORT 2003

=

More 
Quality

More
Synergies

More
Stores

More
Jobs

More
Brands

Higher
Profitability

 
 
 
(RAISE TO THE POWER)
Arithmetical operation consisting in finding the

multiplication of a given base and to repeat it as a

given factor. It is expressed as “to raise a number to

a whole power of ”, “to raise powers”, “to raise to
the second, third…power”, or one may also say “to
raise to the power of Alsea.” 

(COMPANY PROFILE)
Alsea  is  the  leader  in  operating  quick  service  restaurants.  In  Mexico  it  operates  Domino’s  Pizza,  Starbucks

Coffee, and it is the major franchise of Burger King. In Brazil it operates Domino’s Pizza. The operation of its

multi-units is supported by its distribution division, DIA. 

The stock is traded in the Mexican Stock Exchange under the symbol ALSEA*.

(MISSION) Raison d´être
To  develop,  manage  and  control  the  businesses  of  Alsea  by  employing  a  synergy  and  critical  mass  model  to

improve our human and material resources.

“With people for people”

(VISION) Where we want to go
Be of the highest quality and most profitable quick service restaurant operator.

(CONTENTS)

Financial
Highlights

(1)

Board of
Directors

(2)

Message to the
Shareholders

Domino’s
Pizza

(3)

(4)

Starbucks
Coffee

(10)

Burger
King

(14)

DIA

(18)

Shared
Services

(21)

Management’s
Discussion & Analysis

Corporate
Governance

(22)

(24)

Financial
Statements

(28)

(CORPORATE STRUCTURE)

Operadora DP de México, S.A. de C.V., manages the

brand in Mexico through 472 units of which 304 are

owned stores and 168 are sub-franchises.

De  Libra,  Empreendimentos,  Comercio  e  Serviços

Ltda. (subsidiary of DoBrasil, S.A. de C.V.) manages

the brand in Brazil through 29 stores.

Café Sirena, S. de R.L. de C.V.,
manages  the  brand  in  Mexico
through 22 owned stores.

Operadora  West,  S.A.  de  C.V.,  is  a
franchisee of Burger King Corporation
and  manages  the  brand  in  Mexico
through 37 restaurants. 

Distribuidor Internacional de Alimentos, S.A. de C.V., dedicated to the specialized
distribution of food and the manufacturing of pizza dough, manages five distribution
centers with national coverage.

(OUR VALUES ) What makes us great

S

E

R

V

I

C

E

Service and Customer Focus

Excellence and Integral
Development

Respect, Integrity and
Austerity

Vigilant on Quality and
Productivity

Innovation and Creativity

Efficiency, Commitment and
Teamwork

(STRATEGIC PLAN 2003-2008)

Customer satisfaction and operating excellence 
Customers  always  come  first  for  us.  We  meet  their  needs  and  go  beyond  their  expectations  and

the  competition’s  through  product,  service,  and  appearance,  giving  them  great  value  for  their

money. Our quality, efficiency and productivity abide by international performance standards.

Marketing leadership
We are leaders in our industry, by operating brands and concepts that have proven successful in order

to consolidate our position.

Preferred employer
We promote a comprehensive development of our human resources by offering integral remuneration

that encourages retention. We want to be the preferred employer of our market.

Strategic partners
We jointly grow with our suppliers  and commercial partners. We strive to maximize benefits for our

franchisers, sub-franchisees and associates.

Shareholders’ value
We  increase  our  shareholders’  equity  by  striving  to  reach  the  highest  productivity  and  profitability

levels.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS(1)

Net Sales

Cost of Goods Sold

Gross Profit

2003
$ 2,729,813

1,194,188

1,535,625

%

100.00

43.75

56.25

2002
$ 2,627,916

1,160,823

1,467,093

Operating Expenses

1,140,904

41.79

1,076,619

Depreciation

Operating Profit 

EBITDA 

Consolidated Net Profit

153,493

241,228 

394,721 

117,087 

5.62

8.84 

14.46

4.29

120,564 

269,910 

390,474 

138,986

%

100.00

44.17 

55.83

40.97 

4.59 

10.27

14.86

5.29

2001
$ 2,549,196

1,146,160

1,403,036

%

100.00

44.96

55.04

2000
$ 2,404,849

1,055,616

1,349,233

1,047,962 

41.11

117,443

237,631 

355,074 

30,976 

4.61

9.32

13.93

1.22

983,629 

107,204

258,400 

365,604 

115,102 

%

100.00

43.90 

56.10

40.90 

4.46

10.74 

15.20

4.79

1999
$ 1,736,744

788,360

948,384

618,102 

65,605 

264,677 

330,282 

161,453 

%

100.00

45.39

54.61 

35.59

3.78 

15.24 

19.02 

9.30

Total Assets

Cash

Liabilities with Cost

Shareholders’ Equity

Price of Share

Profit per Share

Dividend per Share 

Book Value per Share

Employees

1,709,502

100.00 

1,651,440 

100.00

1,533,693 

100.00 

1,664,490 

100.00 

1,349,750 

100.00 

195,646 

142,907 

1,152,151

11.44 

8.36 

67.40 

207,086 

170,457 

1,080,453 

12.54 

10.32

65.43 

100,558 

231,107 

961,008 

6.56 

15.07

62.66 

112,995 

328,887 

978,980 

6.79 

19.76

58.82 

89,712 

214,263 

900,902 

6.65 

15.87 

66.75

9.60

1.04 

0.38 

9.84

7,336

7.35 

1.17 

0.09 

9.10 

6,950

3.50 

0.26 

0.34 

7.96 

6,893

6.14 

0.95 

-  

8.04 

6,834

11.90 

1.33 

-  

7.42 

5,655

(1) Figures in thousands of pesos, except per share data and employees, expressed in purchasing power as of December 31, 2003.

(2) The graphs present figures in million pesos expressed in purchasing power as of December 31, 2003.

CAGR
03/99
12.0%

10.9%

12.8%

16.6%

23.7%

-2.3%

4.6%

-7.7%

6.1%

21.5%

-9.6%

6.3%

-5.2%

-6.0%

7.3%

6.7%

(NET SALES)
CAGR= 12.0%

(EBITDA)
CAGR= 4.6%

(NET PROFIT)
CAGR= -7.7%

(SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY)
CAGR= 6.3%

.

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS

(PRESIDENT)

Cosme Alberto Torrado Martínez

(RELATED DIRECTORS)

Alberto Torrado Martínez

Alberto Torrado Monge

Armando Torrado Martínez

Federico Tejado Bárcena

(INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS)

Francisco Gama Cruz

Marcelo Rivero Garza

José Manuel Canal Hernando

Salvador Cerón Aguilar

(STATUTORY EXAMINER)

Maximino Manuel Sañudo Bolaños

(SECRETARY)

Xavier Mangino Dueñas

(BOARD OF DIRECTORS COMMITTEES)

Audit Committee 

José Manuel Canal Hernando

(PRESIDENT)

Cosme Alberto Torrado Martínez

(MEMBER)

Mario Sánchez Martínez

(SECRETARY)

Planning and Finance Committee  

Salvador Cerón Aguilar

(PRESIDENT)

Cosme Alberto Torrado Martínez

(MEMBER)

José Rivera Río Rocha

(SECRETARY)

Assessment and Compensation Committee 

Francisco Gama Cruz

Alberto Torrado Monge

(PRESIDENT)

(MEMBER)

C. Ricardo García Luna y Martínez

(SECRETARY)

Marketing Committee

Marcelo Rivero Garza

Federico Tejado Bárcena

Diego Cossío Bartón

Francisco Rodríguez Lara

(PRESIDENT)

(MEMBER)

(MEMBER)

(SECRETARY)

(2)

MESSAGE TO THE SHAREHOLDERS

(SALES MIX*)

(NUMBER OF STORES)

Domino’s Pizza Mexico

62.3%

Domino’s Pizza Brazil

3.2%

Starbucks Coffee

DIA

2.8%

31.7%

* Note: Burger King will be consolidated in Alsea financial

statements as of January 2004.

Domino’s Pizza Mexico System

472

Domino’s Pizza Brazil System

Starbucks Coffee

Burger King

29

22

37

To Our Shareholders,

Alsea had an exceptional year in 2003,

cost and expenses efficiency, to conclude

effort to adapt our organization to the best

despite a dearth of political agreements and

2003 with an operating margin of 8.8%

of practices, with the consistent goal of

economic uncertainty in our country. Thanks

versus last year’s 10.3%. 

generating value and security for our

to the recognition of our customers, we

shareholders.

managed to maintain our leading position,

Our financial position is sound and

operating 560 quick service restaurants

permits us to keep growing. Interest-bearing

Despite the growth of the number of

under trademarks of unquestionable

liabilities dropped by 16.2% and

trademark units that we operate, we focus

international renown. 

shareholders’ equity showed an increase

on the very heart of each of them,

of 7.6%; return on equity was 9.8% and

ensuring that we offer our customers the

At Alsea, we are committed to a mission

our cash flow generation places us in

best in both products and services, all of

upheld by our values and we have achieved

better financial condition to maintain

this thanks to the more than 7,000 people

the goals set out in our Strategic Plan for

orderly growth. The combination of all

on the Alsea team. 

2003 through 2008. The resulting figures

of these elements permitted Alsea to

and our continuous growth are the products

generate an aggregate economic value

We are grateful to our staff, customers,

of the efforts of our exceptional team that is

of $85 million pesos.

shareholders and strategic partners for

experienced in customer service.

their participation in Alsea's success. We

Alsea's consolidated sales figures increased

brands: Domino’s Pizza in Mexico and

be maintained by living everyday with

by 3.9% at $2.73 billion pesos compared

Brazil, Burger King and Starbucks Coffee

conviction in our mission, our vision and

with 2002. Earnings before Interest, Taxes,

achieving 560 units.

our values. 

In 2003, we opened 42 stores of our

are conscious of the fact that this has to

Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA)

was up by 1.1% at $394 million pesos. It is

These figures reflect a 30% increase in our

At Alsea, the best is yet to come.

worthwhile noting that Operadora DP, a

stock price in the securities markets. Net

company operating the Domino's Pizza

earnings per share came to $1.04 pesos

trademark in Mexico, was affected by a

and we declared a $0.3625 peso dividend

change in the value added tax rate from 0%

per share payment in keeping with our

to 15%, when it was decided to tax home-

policy in this regard.

delivery foods as of January 2003. This is

Alsea's main subsidiary, whose share of total

Good Corporate Governance and our

revenues came to 62.3%. The effect of this

compliance with the Code of Best

represented 5.7 percentage points in Alsea's

Corporate Practices ensure Alsea and its

operating margin. Although the task was not

subsidiaries of transparent and

an easy one, we managed to recover by

professional management. We believe

means of technical marketing strategies and

strongly in these principles and make an
(3)

COSME A. TORRADO MARTÍNEZ
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

ALBERTO TORRADO MARTÍNEZ

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Ana Laura Ocampo

CONDESA STORE

DOMINO’S PIZZA MEXICO

( ) =

472 Stores.
70.6 million customers served.
26.3 million pizzas sold. 
23.5 million orders.

“Undoubtedly,  our  greatest  accomplishment  in  2003  was  the
5.9%  growth  in  same  store  orders,  which  is  the  result  of  our
customer-focus  strategy.  We  continue  to  show  opportunities  for
growth: we opened 9 stores in 2003.” 

FEDERICO TEJADO
DIRECTOR OF DOMINO'S PIZZA MEXICO

What was the impact of the VAT

delivery vehicles and store

granted in particular cases, such as

Amendment?

equipment such as Heatwave, a

the one in Six Flags, Mexico City.

The impact on the same store sales

technology that allows for the

of this division was 12 percentage

delivery of an even hotter pizza to

What is the amount paid for

points; however, our focusing on

our clients.

income-generation efforts, through

royalties and publicity?

Our sub-franchisee holders’ pay

marketing strategies, allowed total

What is the average investment per

6.5% of their net sales of royalties

sales to show a slightly positive

store in each one of the formats

and 3.2% is paid to Domino’s Pizza

variation of 0.3%. Additionally, a

managed?

International; in addition to 4% of

strict control of costs and expenses

US$200,000 in stores with home

sales for the advertising fund.

in the entire organization generated

delivery service and US$120,000 in

greater efficiency.

express format, units mainly

How many direct jobs are

What was the market share in

Mexico City subway system, which

We have just over 10,000 people

2003?

have no delivery service.

participating in the entire system.

located in shopping malls and the

generated?

A 26.4% participation in sales.

Do franchises continue to be

What is the significance of

Where was investment utilized

granted?

Domino’s Pizza Mexico to Domino’s

during the year? 

No, since the entire territory is

Pizza International?

We invested 59.1 million pesos in

assigned to the 22 current sub-

Our country has the highest

opening 14 new stores, relocating

franchisee holders.  Outside of these

number of stores after the United

4, remodeling 3, and the closing of

entities, Alsea develops its own

States.

8 units. In addition, we invested in

stores. However, sub-franchisees are

(5)

Owned

Sub-franchises

Total

2003
304

168

472

2002
310

153

463

2001
283

142

425

2000
277

132

409

1999
221

114

CAGR
99/03
8.3%

10.2%

335

8.9%

FUTURE SCENARIO: DOMINO’S PIZZA MEXICO
We will open around 90 stores, split between franchisees and
owned to conclude in 2008 with 560 units.

What is the profitability of a store

leader means better opportunities

in Mexico compared to that of one

in purchase volume, brand name

in the United States?

recognition, service and product

Mexico is four times more profitable

guarantees, advertising

due to the cost and expense

investment, as well as in our

structure.

operations, logistics, distribution,

and geographical coverage

How will future growth unfold?

capabilities.

We will open around 90 stores, split

between franchisees and owned, in

What are the main challenges to be

the next 5 years to conclude in

tackled?

2008 with 560 units. There are

Our own people: covering vacant

cities with at least 50,000

positions and reducing personnel

inhabitants where we have no

turnover in the stores.

stores. On another front, we

envision growth in cities we are

Where will investment be directed

actually covering.  In addition,

in the next years?

shopping malls offer important

To establishing new stores and

expansion opportunities.

maintaining current ones,

upgrading technology and training

Which are the main barriers of

personnel at all levels.

entry?

Undoubtedly, the size of Domino’s

Are store sites rented?

Pizza, as well as that of its current

Yes, of the 304 corporate stores,

competition. Being the market

only five are owned.

(6)

DOMINO’S PIZZA BRAZIL

( ) = 29 stores.

A growth of 26% in the number
of units vs. 2002.
We are leaders in Rio de Janeiro.

“Our accomplishments: Being the leader in Rio de Janeiro with
16  more  stores  than  our  closest  competitor  upon  proving  the
success of the business model in this city.”

EDUARDO GÁNDARA
DIRECTOR OF DOMINO’S PIZZA BRAZIL.

How has the quick service industry

How was consumer performance?

What is the average investment per

evolved in Brazil?

The Brazilian economy in general

store?

A great deal of competition has

displayed a reduced consumption

US$160,000 for stores with home

unfolded.  Local brands operating

and Domino’s Pizza showed a 9.1%

delivery service and US$90,000 for

as franchises have improved their

decline in same store sales.

express format.

image, technology and operations

so as to prepare for the entry of

What modifications have been

How have food distribution matters

international brands to the market.

introduced to adapt the flavor to

been resolved for that South

the taste of the Brazilian

American country?

What is the position of Domino’s

consumer?

We have two distribution centers in

Pizza in Brazil? 

Ingredients from the region were

Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. We

We are positioned with high-quality

introduced, as was the production

also manage small supply stores

pizza focused on home delivery and

of thin-crust pizza, gourmet pizza,

behind the stores in four different

providing a 30-minute delivery

and sweet flavors with a wider-

cities, in addition to having local

guarantee or it will be free. In Rio

ranging menu focused on

suppliers that distribute the

de Janeiro, we are leaders with 16

specialties. Personalized service is

products directly to the units.

more stores than our closest

offered with in-store dining areas.

competitor. There are great growth

How many direct jobs are

opportunities in Sao Paulo since it

Where was investment utilized

generated by Domino’s Pizza

is the second city in the world in

during the year? 

Brazil?

pizza consumption, after New York.

17.0 million pesos were invested, in

Around 400.

net openings six stores, relocating

three and remodeling ten units.

(7)

Total

2003
29

2002
23

2001
12

2000
5

1999
9

CAGR
99/03
34.0%

FUTURE SCENARIO: DOMINO’S PIZZA BRAZIL
The main challenge is to position ourselves as the “best delivery
pizza”  and  test  out  the  business  model  to  penetrate  the  Sao
Paulo market.

What does Domino’s Pizza

What are the main barriers of entry

What will Domino’s Pizza invest in

International expect with the

for new participants in Domino’s

and where will these resources go

development of the brand in Brazil?

Pizza’s sector in Brazil?

in the next few years?

The expectation is to duplicate the

An exacting consumer and a highly

We have a long-term vision, so we

results obtained in Mexico since it

fragmented market as a result of

will make sure that the business

is the largest market in Latin

an economy looking for low prices,

model in Brazil is a satisfactory

America.

an audience that reacts to

one. We will therefore keep a

investments in advertising. An

conservative position with regard to

How do you picture the growth of

economy with complex labor and

investment, as we are not planning

the quick service industry in Brazil

tax legislation.

on opening any stores. Investment

over the next few years?

in technology, training and

New local brands will arise, there

Where is Domino’s Pizza’s best

distribution will be moderate.

will be growth in other cities and

opportunity in Brazil?

there will be the arrival and

In home delivery, where young

Why are there no sub-franchisees

consolidation of several

international chains.

people are more receptive to high

in Brazil?

quality products. Small

Because we will offer our sub-

participants tend to disappear in a

franchisees a successful model

How do you envision the growth of

highly competitive market.

that will generate high profitability

Domino’s Pizza Brazil for the

for their investment once it has

future?

What are the main challenges to be

been tested.

We are working on the business

faced?

model for developing stores in Sao

Position ourselves as the “best

Paulo.

home delivery pizza” and test out

the business model to penetrate

the Sao Paulo market.

(8)

Iván Romero

OPERATIONS

STARBUCKS COFFEE

( ) = 22 stores.

Mexico is the second country in
opening stores, after Germany.
More than 300 direct jobs
generated.

“Our greatest accomplishment in 2003 was opening 18 stores in
one year, operating under a successful business model. Likewise,
constructing the foundations of the structure and the talent of our
people will ensure the growth of Starbucks Coffee in our country.”

GERARDO ROJAS

DIRECTOR OF STARBUCKS COFFEE MEXICO

How has growth performed in this

range from gazebo-type kiosks to

How many jobs did Starbucks

first year of operations?

outlets of approximately 200 m2. We

Coffee contribute in the generation

At a brisk pace and solid (more

are committed to adapting to the

of direct employment in Mexico?

than one store per month);

surroundings of each one of the

Over 300, which we estimate will

a sprightly increase, with new

communities where we are

double in 2004.

learning experiences that can be

established.

capitalized upon in the coming

What is Mexico’s position regarding

years. The Mexican consumer has

What market niche is Starbucks

Starbucks Coffee International?

shown acceptance and enjoyment

Coffee aimed at in Mexico?

Mexico is a key market with solid

of living “The Starbucks

Starbucks is for everyone; it

economic foundations that

Experience”.

represents the “Third Place,” after

represent the launching pad for the

home and the office, Starbucks is

rest of the Latin American market.

How has Starbucks Coffee

where our clients can relax, read a

In addition, Mexico is one of the

positioned itself in our country’s

book or meet with friends. We wish

five main coffee-producing

coffee sector?

to offer the best coffee in the best

countries in the world.

“As coffee lovers, with a grand

place, with the best service.

commitment to the quality and

What elements were decisive in

service we provide our customers:

Are franchises granted?

agreeing to the joint-venture?

one cup at a time.”

No, all stores are owned. We develop

Alsea's focus on the quick service

the outlets under a joint-venture

industry, and its experience in the

What is the format of the stores?

scheme with Starbucks Coffee

management of multiplex units

Abbreviated, core, and flagship,

International.

strengthened by its distribution and

which are classified by size and

logistics network.

(11)

Number of stores

Dec 2003
22

Dec 2002
4

FUTURE SCENARIO: STARBUCKS COFFEE
Fostering  the  coffee  culture  in  Mexico  to  live  “The  Starbucks
Experience”; we plan to have around 200 stores by 2008.

How will Starbucks Coffee growth

What are the main barriers of entry

growth and becoming a large

unfold in Mexico in the next few

of new participants in the sector in

company in number of stores and

years?

which Starbucks Coffee

sales volume, while still

We picture having around 200

participates?

maintaining an efficient structure

stores by 2008.

The backing we receive from our

and organizational culture. We are

international partner, who is

dynamic, sprightly, non-bureaucratic,

What is Mexico’s per capita coffee

knowledgeable of the coffee culture

productive, innovative, and very

consumption?

and has experience in

much in touch with the operation.

Between 700 to 800 grams;

understanding the preferences of

however, Mexico is the fifth largest

the consumer and offers quality

When will expansion outside of the

coffee-producing country in the

products with a brand name of

Federal District begin?

world. We see this as a great

renowned prestige.

We will open stores in Guadalajara

opportunity to capitalize on,

in 2004.

knowing that we have to contribute

What are the main challenges

with our two cents’ worth to ensure

faced?

that the coffee culture spreads and,

Fostering the coffee culture in

in this way, increase domestic

Mexico to live “The Starbucks

consumption.

Experience”, promoting accelerated

(12)

Mirna Gavito

NAPOLES STORE

BURGER KING

( ) = 37 restaurants.

A growth of 32% in number
of stores vs. 2002.

“The most important accomplishment in 2003 was the opening
of nine new restaurants, which represent a growth of 32.1% in
number of units.”

FABIÁN GOSSELIN

DIRECTOR OF OPERADORA WEST

Who is Operadora West?

quick service industry, as well as the

What is the market niche targeted

Is the largest franchisee which

logistics and food distribution services

by Burger King in Mexico?

operates the brand in Mexico. We

rendered by DIA. Before the agreement

The mid to mid-high socioeconomic

operate the region of Bajio, the state

with Alsea we had 24 units, a year

level, focusing on children between

of Jalisco and the Federal District’s

and a half later we already had 37

the ages of 4 and 12, and adults

metropolitan area, although there

restaurants.

between 19 and 44.

are other nine franchisees.

How was the consumption

Where was investment utilized

Who is Burger King Corporation?

performance in the hamburger

during the year? 

It is our international partner in the

market sector?

In opening nine new restaurants and

United States which grants franchises

Consumption remained stable in

remodeling four others.

to manage the brand in Mexico.

2003 and Operadora West focused

on harnessing new customers, using

What is the average investment per

Does Operadora West grant

discounts and promotions.

franchises?

outlet? 

US$700,000.

No, because we do not operate under

What was the participation in the

a sub-franchisee scheme.

hamburger market sector?

How much is paid in royalties to

The Burger King system has

Burger King Corporation?

What has been the advantage of

approximately 16% of all the

The 5% of net sales and another 5%

Alsea’s and Operadora West’s

hamburger restaurants in Mexico.

for the advertising fund.

partnership?

Operadora West, being a

Alsea has boosted its growth rate and

franchisee, participates with 19%

Operadora West has benefited from

of the Burger King System in

Alsea’s in-depth knowledge of the

number of units.

(15)

Number of stores

Dec 2003
37

Dec 2002
28

FUTURE SCENARIO: BURGER KING
We  want  to  be  near  our  customers,  we  will  open  around  70
restaurants between 2004 and 2008.

How many jobs does Operadora

What will Operadora West’s growth

macroeconomic indicators remain

West contribute for the generation

be in the next few years?

stable. There are many small and

of direct employment?

Around 1,200 employees.

11 restaurants per year.

medium-sized chains in the United

What are the main barriers for

especially appealing, mainly due to

States that find the Mexican market

How has the brand name performed

entry?

the success that Burger King and his

in Mexico? 

Undoubtedly, current market

competitor have enjoyed in Mexico,

Mexico has been one of the countries

players have opened up consumer-

and they will attempt to gain a

that has shown the best results and

renowned brands, which constitute

foothold domestically.

offers greatest growth opportunities

a barrier to new participants.

for the Burger King Corporation.

Additionally, price is a factor that

What investments will Operadora

especially affects small chains that

West make in the next few years

As of what date will Operadora

are still not able to produce a

and where will these resources be

West consolidate its financial

critical mass. 

focused?

statements with Alsea’s?

Investments will center on opening

Starting January 1st 2004.

What are the prospects for the

outlets, with 400.0 million pesos

How do you envision the growth in

To increase the habit of consuming

restaurants between 2004

per capita consumption of

hamburgers and achieve greater

and 2008.

hamburger market niche?

earmarked for opening 70

hamburgers in Mexico?

market penetration through a larger

Consumption will depend on the

number of restaurant openings.

proximity of the restaurant to the

consumer. For this, the opening of

Which are the main challenges

new restaurants is a key factor, as is

faced?

the incidence on the habits of the

We will have to reckon with greater

consumer regarding our products.

competition, especially if the

(16)

Rubén Baena

DIA OPERATOR

DISTRIBUIDOR INTERNACIONAL DE ALIMENTOS

( ) = Two visits per week to 120 cities.

698 sales points.
320 distribution routes.
1,517 weekly deliveries.

“The most important accomplishment in 2003 was being able
to  offer  a  complete  on-time  service,  to  maintain  an  efficient
distribution  operation  and  to  improve  our  processes  with
investment  in  the  dough  production  area.  We  implemented
demand planning models to optimize inventories.” 

HÉCTOR ORRICO

DIRECTOR OF DIA

What is DIA?

What is the distribution fleet?

What are the products with the

It is Alsea’s subsidiary dedicated

180 trucks, with three

greatest volume?

to supply food products to the

temperatures to transport dry,

Cheese, dough, sausages, pizza

different brands, strengthening

refrigerated and frozen foods.

sauce, potatoes, and hamburger

their operations by allowing them

meat.

to focus on end customer service.

What operations does DIA

engage in?

Do you have supplier

How many distribution centers

Demand planning, purchasing,

development programs?

are there?

storage, food distribution as well

We have a Strategic Partners

There are five: Mexico City,

as the production of pizza dough.

program with two mainstays: the

Monterrey, Tijuana, Hermosillo

product guarantee and the service

and Cancun.

Who are its customers?

level provided to us.

Domino’s Pizza, Starbucks Coffee,

What coverage has DIA achieved?

Burger King and Cinemark.

What is the future of distribution

DIA offers services nationwide,

in Mexico?

covering 120 cities. It visits 698

What is the profile of the clients

Nowadays, the leading brands

sales points twice every week,

it manages?

base their success on efficient

traveling 141,080 kilometers per
week and delivering 232,780

Multiple-unit chain characterized
by national geographic dispersion,

logistics and distribution since it
is the means through which its

boxes.

which manage large volumes and

products reach the consumer. We

rely on a standardized products

have no doubt that distribution

catalogue.

will become an even more

(19)

FUTURE SCENARIO: DIA
Distribuidor  Internacional  de  Alimentos  will  continue  to  be  the
key of logistics and food distribution for backing the growth of
our brands. 

important pillar of all consumer

What will the investment and

product sales organizations.

destination of said resources be

in the coming years?

What will the participation of

19 million pesos mainly for the

DIA in Alsea amount to in the

areas of information systems,

long run?

production and, most importantly:

DIA will continue to be the key for

the training of our people.

backing the growth of units for

each one of the brands. We will

continue focusing on efficiency

and continuous improvement in

our operations.

(20)

SHARED SERVICES

Alsea,  upon  embarking  on  its  operations  under  a  Shared  Services  scheme,  seeks  to
concentrate  the  resources  of  similar  activities  in  the  entire  organization  to  provide
service to the brands it manages.

We focus on:

• Having a support organization, concentrating on customer satisfaction, efficiency and continuous improvement.

• Offering a better service to business operations with common processes and systems.

• Emphasizing the creation of value and its measurement through process redesign.

• Promoting the evolution of Alsea in some of the procedures to be managed through outsourcing.

Alsea is wholly engaged in a transition process to reach the Shared Services Center. The benefits are:

1. Supporting the accelerated growth of the brands we managed.

2. Updating the technological platform.

3.

Integrating supply chain operations.

4. Optimizing the efficiency of staff areas.

Operating under a Shared Services Center allows the brands to focus on their main activity: eliminating their support

functions. With process centralization, Alsea benefits from its critical mass, exploiting economies of scale by reducing

its operating expenses, increasing margins and improving Alsea’s level of service.

The transition means a change in culture. In Alsea we are focusing attention on clients and quality; that is why

we have established service agreements between the different staff areas and business units to implement the

technological tool in the next two years.

DISTRIBUTION AND
LOGISTICS 

DEVELOPMENT

HÉCTOR ORRICO ORNELAS

ARMANDO TORRADO MARTÍNEZ

HUMAN
RESOURCES 
C. RICARDO GARCÍA LUNA Y M.

SYSTEMS AND
PROCESSES 

ADMINISTRATION
AND FINANCE

SALVADOR ROCHA CITO

JOSÉ RIVERA RÍO ROCHA

STRATEGIC
PLANNING 
JUAN CARLOS JALLATH H.

INTERNAL
AUDIT 

MARIO SÁNCHEZ MARTÍNEZ

Manage the Alsea brands

Development of points of

Recruitment and selection. 

Technological

Financial planning,

Development of the process

Ensure compliance with

supply chain. 

sale selection.

Control of leasing 

contracts.

Training and qualification. 

implementation of point-

administration, internal

of Strategic Planning,

internal control.

Performance evaluation.

of-sale information,

control, information and

including follow-up and

Compensation. 

General services.

Labor relations.

processes, communication

financial analysis that will

evaluation.

and solutions for

generate value for the

Corporate Communications.

monitoring operating and

stockholder. 

financial management.
(21)

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS

Our  financial  position  is  sound  and  permits  us  to  keep  growing.  Interest-bearing
liabilities  dropped  by  16.2%  and  shareholders’  equity  showed  an  increase  of  7.6%;
return on equity was 9.8% and  our cash flow generation places us in better financial
condition to maintain orderly growth. The combination of all of these elements permitted
Alsea to generate an aggregate economic value of $85 million pesos.

Sales increased 3.9% in 2003, reaching 2.73 billion

decision not to pass on the impact of the VAT to

distribution expenses of 8.6 million pesos.

pesos. This increase in 101.9 million pesos was the

the clients.

result of:

• An increase of 5.2 million pesos for Domino’s Pizza

The 39.0 million peso increase in Fixed Costs is

• A slight increase in net sales of 4.3 million pesos

Brazil, mainly due to improvements in operations. 

mainly the result of:

or 0.3% for Domino’s Pizza Mexico, mainly

• Starbucks Coffee positive contribution of 45.8

• An increase of 27.8 million pesos in salaries and

supported by a significant growth in same store

million pesos.

compensation for providing 4.3 million pesos for

orders of 5.9% and by the greater number of

• An increase in the gross profit of DIA in the amount

the Stock Option Plan, the 11.6 million peso

stores. The former is compensated by the impact of

of 23.7 million pesos, as a result of passing on

increase for the opening of new Domino’s Pizza

the 15% VAT in our home delivery sales, and by the

exchange rate variations to the clients, improved

and Starbucks Coffee stores in Mexico and Brazil,

difference of 3 sales days due to calendar

purchasing management, including the negotiation

an increase of 7.4 million pesos in employment

considerations.

of discounts for prompt payment, compensated by

termination settlements resulting from the fusion

• Domino’s Pizza Brazil increase of 7.7 million pesos,

the combination of sales per brand.

of several regions, transfer bonuses, salary

mainly boosted by the opening of 6 units in the last

standardization, and the hiring of regional sales

12 months.

The gross margin climbed 50 base points, moving

managers.

• Starbucks Coffee increase of 69.8 million pesos as

from 55.8% to 56.3%.

• An increase of 13.6 million pesos in general

a result of opening 18 new stores in the last 12

services for the opening of 33 stores, as well as

months.

Variable Expenses with respect to sales were greater

increases in electric, water and gas services

• The increase of 13.4 million pesos for DIA, based

by 7.9 million pesos as a result of:

expenses, which exceeded the rate of inflation.

upon a greater number of units served, and the

• An increase of 6.7 million pesos for Starbucks

• An increase of 8.4 million pesos in leasing

growth in sales of the brands to which it caters. 

Coffee work force expenses.

expenses resulting from the opening of 33 stores. 

• An increase of 7.3 million pesos over the previous

• An increase of 4.8 million pesos for the repair

Gross Profit grew 4.7%, jumping to 1.536 billion

year in work force expenses, royalties paid to the

and maintenance of Domino’s Pizza units in

pesos. This increase of 68.5 million pesos in 2003

United States, and contributions made to the

Mexico and Brazil.

resulted from:

advertising fund supporting Domino’s Pizza Mexico

• All of the above compensated with a savings of

• A decrease of 12.9 million pesos for Domino’s

end-of-year sales campaigns.

15.2 million pesos in professional services for

Pizza Mexico, which reflected a 1.7 percentage

• An increase of 2.5 million pesos in the consumption

projects carried out in 2002.

point slump with respect to sales following the

of some DIA supplies, compensated by savings in

(22)

(PRICE OF SHARE)

(PROFIT PER SHARE)

0
9
1
1

.

0
6
9

.

5
3
7

.

4
1
6

.

0
5
3

.

3
3
1

.

5
9
0

.

7
1
1

.

4
0
1

.

6
2
0

.

‘99

‘00

‘01

‘02

‘03

‘99

‘00

‘01

‘02

‘03

An increase of 32.9 million pesos in Depreciation and

• The 16.7 million pesos expense incurred in the un-

same from 17 to 11 times; the company also

Amortization due to the change in amortization policy

incorporation of a subsidiary in Brazil.

increased its client base in 5 days, moving up from 8

from 20 to 13 years for the amortization of

• The sale of “Para Servirle a Usted” shares, which

to 13 days, and accounts payable to suppliers were

“improvements to rented locations” in Domino’s Pizza

generated a 3.5 million pesos loss.

reduced by 9 days, decreasing from 46 to 37 days.

Mexico and DIA, as well as the increase in the number

• Earnings in the amount of 5.2 million pesos upon

of units to 33, which is consolidated with respect to

obtaining a favorable verdict related to the lawsuit

Interest-bearing liabilities dropped by 16.2%.

the same period for 2002.

that we pursued regarding the 2002 Salary Credit

Short-term liabilities with cost amounted to

Operating profit fell off 10.6% to 241.2 million pesos.

Substitutive Tax. 

123.9 million pesos, which represents an increase

of 87.8 million pesos and reflects the reclassification

Likewise, the operating margin decreased from 10.3% to

The Effective Income Tax Rate for 2003 was 39.2%,

of debt from long to short term, corresponding to the

8.8% in 2003, showing a 1.5 percentage point decrease.

mainly increased by the financial estimate for the un-

Medium-Term Promissory Note for 100.0 million

EBITDA increased 1.1% in 2003, reaching 394.7

as capitalizing on the immediate deduction of fixed

million pesos and the EBITDA margin showed a 40

assets in certain regions of the country; while the

The consolidated balance sheet shows a current

base point decrease dropping from 14.9% in 2002 to

2002 figure of 31.3% reflected financial benefits due

assets to short-term liabilities ratio of 1.91 times,

incorporation of EXIM del Caribe in Cancun, as well

pesos, which comes due in August 2004.

14.5% in 2003.

to fiscal consolidation.

an acid test of 1.52 times, a total liability to

shareholders’ equity ratio of 0.43 times, and

The integral cost of financing decreased 75.6% as a

Earnings of 9.4 million pesos are presented in the

interest-bearing liabilities to shareholders’ equity

result of the following:

results of Associated Companies for 2003, which

of 0.12 times. The company is complying in this

• Less interest paid for a lower leverage level of 27.5

corresponds to our participation in Operadora West,

manner with all the limitations it holds by reason

million pesos, as well as the drop in interest rates

and Cool Cargo.

of debt issue within its financial structure.

in the last 12 months.

• An increase in interest earned of 1.0 million pesos

A loss of 16.4 million pesos in 2003 belongs to the

by reason of a larger cash level.  

Discontinued Operations of Exim del Caribe,

• Reduced exchange rate results by 3.0 million pesos

recognizing earnings of 3.0 million pesos in the net

since the 2002 exchange rate held greater variations.

balance for the period.

An expense of 31.2 million pesos is presented in Other

Net earnings were 117.1 million pesos, which

Expenses and Products, resulting from:

represents a 15.7% drop. The net profit margin

• An expense of 19.2 million pesos, which corresponds

decreased one percentage point from 5.33%

to the retirement of obsolete fixed assets resulting

to 4.3% in 2003.

from the equipment renovation program, as well as

for the retirement of improvements of rental locations

With respect to Balance Sheet accounts, the company

due to remodeling and relocation of 11 stores.

reduced its inventory turnover 6 times, reducing the

JOSÉ RIVERA RÍO ROCHA
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

(23)

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Audit
Committee

To the Board of Directors of ALSEA, S.A. de C.V.

In accordance with Article 14 of the Securities Market Law and on behalf of the Audit Committee, I hereby inform you of the activities we carried out related

to the fiscal year ending December 31, 2003. As work progressed we have kept in mind the recommendations established in the Code of Best Corporate

Practices. The Statutory Examiner of the Company was invited in accordance with the aforementioned law and was present at the meetings held.

In compliance with the fundamental responsibilities of Management related to the effectiveness of the alignment of internal control and the accurateness

and reliability of the financial information that Management prepares to be used by the Board of Directors, shareholders and third parties, we carried out

the following important activities:

1. With the support of the external and internal auditors, we reviewed internal control general guidelines, following up on Management implementation

of the resulting suggestions.

2. We approved the Internal Audit work program and corresponding budget for the 2003 fiscal year.

3. We received periodic reports from Internal Audit concerning progress of the approved work program and variations it could have had, as well as the

causes for them. We analyzed and followed up on their observations and suggestions and their timely implementation.

4. Based on a careful evaluation, we concluded that we should recommend that the Board of Directors invite a new firm in order to conduct an external

audit of the company. Beforehand, we made certain of their independence and reviewed in detail their focus and work program, as well as their

coordination with the Internal Audit department.

5. We maintained constant communication with the new external auditors in order to be aware of their progress, as well as any observations they made,

especially  for  finishing  their  audit  and  review  of  annual  financial  statements.  We  became  aware  of  their  conclusions  in  a  timely  manner,  and  we

recommended approval of the annual financial statements to the Board of Directors. 

6. We  followed  up  the  recommendations  presented  by  the  external  auditors  as  a  result  of  the  2002  period  audit.  All  significant  suggestions  were

implemented.

7. We reviewed the financial information that Management prepares quarterly to be presented to the stockholders and general public, making sure it

was prepared using the same accounting criteria used to prepare the annual report.

8. Upon careful discussion of the accounting policies adhered to by the Company, we recommended their approval to the Board of Directors. No changes

to accounting policies were made during the year.

9. Through Internal Audit and with the support of third parties, we reviewed the transactions carried out between the company’s subsidiaries and related

parties, making sure that they were carried out in accordance with established contracts, at market value, and that they were clearly stated in the

financial statements. We requested Management to be informed of any unusual transactions which nature and relative importance merited such in

a timely manner.

10. We verified the existence of the controls established by the company, to ensure compliance with the different legal stipulations to which it is subject.

11. Systems Management held a presentation involving their respective field, its operation and the controls established. We decided to request a specific

review of the internal controls in this area to be conducted by independent experts in 2004.

12. We followed up the distribution process of the Company’s Code of Conduct for all personnel and Directors.

13. We held regular Committee Meetings and also met with the external and internal auditors, without the presence of the members of the Board, to

comment on the development of their work, limitations they might have had, and to facilitate any private communication they might wish to have with

the Committee.

14. We presented to the Board of Directors reports on the activities conducted by the Committee on a quarterly basis. 

15. The work we carried out was duly documented in the minutes prepared for each meeting, which were reviewed and approved in a timely manner by

the Committee members.

Sincerely,

C.P.C. JOSÉ MANUEL CANAL

PRESIDENT

(24)

Planning and
Finance
Committee

To the Board of Directors of ALSEA, S.A. de C.V.

Pursuant to Article 14 of the Securities Market Law and on behalf of the Committee on Planning and Finance, I hereby inform of the

activities we carried out related to the fiscal year ending December 31, 2003. In the development of our work, we have kept in mind

the recommendations established by the Code of Good Corporate Practices. The Statutory Examiner of the Company was invited in

accordance with the aforementioned law and was present at most of the Committee meetings held.

In order to comply with the responsibilities of this Committee, we carried out the following activities:

1. The Committee’s commitments with respect to its responsibilities, functions, and structure were updated and confirmed.

2. Committee on Planning and Finance regulations were authorized.

3. General outlines were established for the development of Alsea’s Strategic Plan 2004-2008.

4. The Stock Option Plan for Executives was evaluated and ordered.

5. General premises were established for drawing up the budget for fiscal year 2003.

6. The budgets for 2004 for each of the companies that make up Alsea were reviewed with the purpose of validating them before their

presentation to the Board of Directors. Those budgets are expected to be authorized by the Board of Directors during the present

session.

7. Financial projections for 2007 were followed up on.

8. The methodology for determining the opportunity cost of shareholder capital was precisely defined.

9. The optimum Capital structure for Alsea was defined as a combination of 85% Capital and 15% Debt.

10. Investment policies for Treasury Surpluses as well as for Dollar Investments were defined and authorized, and were presented in

their corresponding formats.

11. Assessments conducted on each pertinent occasion for removal from the company were reviewed.

12. The comparative profitability model of the different Alsea brands was presented. (Benchmark)

13. Investment alternatives generated by Alsea’s Chairman of the Board and CEO in 2003 were evaluated with an opinion issued in

each case.

Sincerely,

SALVADOR CERON AGUILAR

PRESIDENT

(25)

Assessment and
Compensation
Committee

Pursuant to Article 14 of the Securities Market Law and on behalf of the Committee on Assessment and Compensation, I hereby inform

you of the activities we carried out relating to the fiscal year ending December 31, 2003. In the conduct of our work, we have kept in

mind the recommendations established in the Code of Best Corporate Practices. The Statutory Examiner was invited in accordance with

the aforementioned law and was present at the meetings we held.

In several meetings with the Human Resources Department, review was made to continue the policies established by this Committee

and authorized by the Board of Directors, with reference to the following:

1. Evaluation and compensation of the Chief Executive Officer and high-level officers.

2. Evaluation criteria in accordance with the general outlines established by the Board of Directors.

3. Amount of remuneration to principal executives.

4. Regular evaluation of the performance of the Chief Executive Officer and high-level officers.

5. Policies of remuneration of strategic employees.

A review of the performance and bonus program for the year 2004 was carried out.

All  of  the  above  activities  are  duly  documented  in  minutes  prepared  for  each  meeting,  which  were  reviewed  and  approved  by  the

Committee members.

Sincerely,

FRANCISCO GAMA

PRESIDENT

(26)

Marketing
Committee

Pursuant to Article 14 of the Capital Markets Law and on behalf of the Marketing Committee, I hereby report on the activities conducted

during the year ended December 31, 2003. In the development of our work, we have taken into account the recommendations set out

in the Best Corporate Practices Code. Furthermore, the Company’s Statutory Auditor was sent a call to the Committee meetings upon

the terms of the aforementioned law and was in attendance thereat.

Over  the  course  of  several  meetings,  general  guidelines  were  laid  down  for  the  marketing  area,  focusing  on  the  following  items,

authorized by the Board of Directors, namely:

1. Focus on flavor.

2. Pricing policy that ensures a suitable profit considering the 2003 fiscal emergency.

3. Refocusing strategy towards innovation.

4. Analysis and approval of advertising campaigns launched by Domino’s Pizza during the year.

All  the  aforementioned  work  has  been  duly  documented  in  minutes  to  each  meeting,  which  were  reviewed  and  approved  by  the

members of the Committee.

Sincerely,

MARCELO RIVERO GARZA

PRESIDENT

(27)

REPORT OF STATUTORY AUDITOR

Alsea S. A. de C. V. and Subsidiaries
(Translation from original issued in Spanish)

México City, February 20, 2004.

To the General Stockholders’ Meeting of

Alsea, S. A. de C. V. 

In my capacity as Statutory Auditor and in compliance with the provisions of Article 166 of the Mexican General Companies Law and

the Company’s by-laws, I hereby submit my report on the veracity, sufficiency and reasonability of the financial information prepared

by and under the responsibility of the company’s management, present to you by the Board of Directors concerning the company’s

operations for the year ended December 31, 2003.

I have attended the Intermediate Committee, the Board of Directors’ and Stockholders’ meeting of which I have been summoned. I

have  obtained  from  the  Directors  and  Administrators  the  operating  information,  documentation  and  accounting  records  that  I

considered it necessary to examine.

I have carefully reviewed the report issued by the company’s external auditors, KPMG Cardenas Dosal, S.C., date February 20, 2004,

in connection with the examination which they carried out, in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, of the financial

statements prepared by the company’s management.

In my opinion, the accounting and reporting policies and criteria followed by the company and applied by management in preparing

the financial information to be submitted to this meeting are appropriate and adequate and have been applied on a basis consistent

with that of the previous year; therefore, such information correctly, fairly and adequately present the financial position of Alsea, S. A.

de C. V., as an independent legal entity, at December 31, 2003 and the results of its operations, the changes in its stockholders’ equity

and the changes in its financial position for the year then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in México.

MAXIMINO MANUEL SADUÑO BOLAÑOS

STATUTORY AUDITOR

(28)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT

Alsea S. A. de C. V. and Subsidiaries
(Translation from Spanish Language Original) 

February 20, 2004

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Alsea, S. A. de C. V.:

We have examined the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Alsea, S. A. de C. V. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2003

and  the  related  consolidated  statements  of  income,  stockholders’  equity  and  changes  in  financial  position  for  the  year  then  ended.

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion

on these consolidated financial statements based on our audit. The consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended

December 31, 2002 were audited by other independent public accountants whose report thereon dated February 4, 2003 expressed

an unqualified opinion. 

We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in Mexico. Those standards require that we plan

and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and are

prepared  in  accordance  with  accounting  principles  generally  accepted  in  Mexico.  An  audit  includes  examining,  on  a  test  basis,

evidence  supporting  the  amounts  and  disclosures  in  the  financial  statements.  An  audit  also  includes  assessing  the  accounting

principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We

believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of

Alsea, S. A. de C. V. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2003, and the results of their operations, the changes in their stockholders’

equity and the changes in their financial position for the year then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted

in Mexico.

KPMG CARDENAS DOSAL, S. C.

JAVIER MORALES RÍOS

PARTNER

(29)

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

Alsea S. A. de C. V. and Subsidiaries
December 31, 2003 and 2002

(Thousands of constant Mexican pesos as of December 31, 2003)

Assets

Current assets:

Cash
Accounts receivable: 

Clients, less allowance for doubtful of

$5,977 in 2003 and $4,404 in 2002

Recoverable taxes
Other

Associated company (note 5)
Inventories, net (note 6)
Prepaid expenses

Total current assets

Investment in shares of associated companies (note 7)

Goodwill of subsidiaries and associated companies

2003

2002

$

195,646

207,086 

109,260
48,826 
17,442
34,095 
107,859 
16,285

66,033 
44,965 
55,527
4,233 
69,955
14,974

529,413 

462,773

70,770 

53,314

47,076 

77,753

Property, equipment and leasehold improvements, net (note 8)

832,306 

832,294

Other assets:

Patents and trademarks, less accumulated amortization of $76,993  

in 2003 and $64,917 in 2002

Preoperating expenses, less accumulated amortization of $15,426  

in 2003 and $8,010 in 2002

Other assets, net

Assets from discontinued operations (note 2c.)

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

156,890

155,160 

37,541 

10,426 

18,842

38,612 

9,426 

28,346

$

1,709,502

1,651,440

(30)

Liability and Stockholders' Equity

2003

2002

Short-term liability:

Bank loans (note 9)
Short-term maturity of medium-term promissory note (note 9)
Suppliers
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Accruals
Tax payables and employee statutory profit 

sharing

Total short-term liability

Bank loans, without short-term maturaty (note 9)
Medium-term promissory note (note 9)
Seniority premium, other benefits and other liabilities (note 10)
Deferred income tax and long-term payable on retained earnings (note 12)
Liability from discontinued operations (note 2c.)

Total liability

Stockholders' equity (note 13):

Capital stock
Additional paid-in capital
Retained earnings
Reserve for acquisition of own shares
Translation effect from foreign entity

Majority stockholders' equity

Minority interest

Total stockholders' equity

Commitment and contingent liabilities (note 14)

Subsequent events (note 16)

$

23,957
100,000
186,355
29,137
29,772

36,073
-
227,286
36,570
16,598

8,380

9,073

377,601

325,600

18,950
-
8,254
101,853
10,453

30,034
104,350
10,861
68,241
4,985

517,111

544,071

383,007
231,437
507,855
33,827
(3,975)

386,959
231,437
434,560
41,590
(14,093)

1,152,151

1,080,453

40,240

26,916

1,192,391

1,107,369

$

1,709,502

1,651,440

LIC. JOSÉ RIVERA RÍO ROCHA

FINANCING CORPORATIVE DIRECTOR

C.P. ALBERTO TORRADO MARTÍNEZ

GENERAL DIRECTOR

C.P. ABEL BARRERA FERMÍN

CORPORATIVE COMPTROLLER

(31)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

Alsea S. A. de C. V. and Subsidiaries
Years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002

(Thousands of constant Mexican pesos as of December 31, 2003)

Net sales
Cost of sales

Gross profit

Operating expenses 

Operating income

Comprehensive financial results (note 11)

Other expenses, net

Income from continuing operations, before income taxes

and employee statutory profit sharing

Income tax and employee statutory profit sharing (note 12):

Income tax
Employee statutory profit sharing

Total income tax and employee statutory profit sharing

Income from continuing operations, before equity in the

income of associated companies

Equity in the income of associated companies (note 7)

Income from continuing operations

Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes (note 2c.)

Net consolidated income

Minority interest

Net majority income

Net earnings per share (note 3t.)

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.

2003

2002

$

2,729,813 
1,194,188 

2,627,916
1,160,823

1,535,625

1,467,093 

1,294,397 

1,197,183

241,228 

269,910

(4,448)

(18,219)

(31,270)

(9,074)

205,510

242,617

80,613
764 

81,377 

75,919 
1,857

77,776 

124,133 

164,841 

9,411

3,501 

133,544 

168,342 

(16,457)
117,087 

(29,356)
138,986 

(4,739)

(9,941)

121,826

148,927 

1.04 

1.24

$

$

LIC. JOSÉ RIVERA RÍO ROCHA

FINANCING CORPORATIVE DIRECTOR

C.P. ALBERTO TORRADO MARTÍNEZ

GENERAL DIRECTOR

C.P. ABEL BARRERA FERMÍN

CORPORATIVE COMPTROLLER

(32)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES
IN FINANCIAL POSITION 

Alsea S. A. de C. V. and Subsidiaries
Years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002

(Thousands of constant Mexican pesos as of December 31, 2003)

Operating activities:

Net income
Add charges (deduct credits) to income not requiring (providing) funds:

Depreciation and amortization
Amortization of goodwill of subsidiaries and associated companies
Write-down of investment and cancellation of goodwill of subsidiaries companies
Seniority premium and other benefits
Equity in the results of associated companies
Deferred income tax and employee statutory profit sharing

Funds provided by operations

Net financing from (investing in) operating accounts: 

Clients
Other accounts receivable and prepaid expenses
Inventories
Associated company
Suppliers, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other accounts payable
Taxes payable and employee statutory profit sharing

2003

2002

$

117,087

138,986

141,629
11,864
37,129
348
(9,411)
37,289

335,935

(43,227)
32,913
(37,904)
(29,862)
(38,692)
(4,370)

113,993
6,572
-
376
(3,501)
7,405

263,831

25,906
8,831
16,464
(2,788)
79,425
6,568

Funds (used in) provided by operating activities

(121,142)

134,406

Financing activities:

Increase in capital stock and minority interest
Repurchase of own shares
Payment of loans, net
Seniority premium and other benefits payments
Dividends declared

Funds used in financing activities

Investing activities:

Acquisition of property, equipment and leasehold improvements
Discontinued operations, net
Effect of desincorporation of subsidiaries
Investment in shares of associated companies, net of dividends collected
Translation effect from foreign entity
Patents, trademarks, pre-operating expenses and other assets
Goodwill of subsidiaries and associated companies, net

Funds used in investing activities

(Decrease) increase in cash

Cash:

At beginning of year
At end of year

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.

18,063 
(15,627)
(27,550)
(121)
(44,619)

(69,854)

(89,281)
(4,202)
-
(14,283)
10,118 
(54,019)
(4,712)

32,430
(17,752)
(60,650)
(34)
(10,761)

(56,767)

(117,674)
48,727
(42,928)
(43,575)
(4,630)
(46,430)
(28,433)

(156,379)

(234,943)

(11,440)

106,527

$

207,086
195,646 

100,559
207,086

LIC. JOSÉ RIVERA RÍO ROCHA

FINANCING CORPORATIVE DIRECTOR

C.P. ALBERTO TORRADO MARTÍNEZ

GENERAL DIRECTOR

C.P. ABEL BARRERA FERMÍN

CORPORATIVE COMPTROLLER

(33)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES
IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Alsea S. A. de C. V. and Subsidiaries
Years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002

(Thousands of constant Mexican pesos as of December 31, 2003)

Retained earnings

Capital
stock

Additional 
paid-in
capital

Statutory
reserve

Retained
earnings

Balances as of December 31, 2001

$

391,167 

229,104 

5,522 

290,872 

Increase in capital stock and minority 

interest (note 13)

Repurchase of own shares (note 13)

Transfer to the statutory reserve

Dividends declared ($0.0829 per share) 

(note 13)

Effect of desincorporation of subsidiaries 

(note 2c.)

Comprehensive income

1,030 

(5,238)

-

-

-

-

2,333 

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,585 

(1,585)

-

-

-

(10,761)

-

148,927 

Balances as of December 31, 2002

386,959 

231,437 

7,107 

427,453 

Increase in minority interest (note 13)

Repurchase of own shares (note 13)

Transfer to the statutory reserve

Dividends declared ($0.3625 per share)  

(note 13)

Comprehensive income

-

(3,952)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,334 

-

-

-

(3,912)

(7,334)

(44,619)

121,826 

Balances as of December 31, 2003

$

383,007 

231,437 

14,441 

493,414 

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

(34)

Reserve for
acquisition of
own shares

Total

Translation 
effect from
foreign
entity

Total
majority
stockholders'
equity

Minority
interest

Total
stockholders'
equity

296,394 

54,104 

(11,217)

959,552 

50,718 

1,010,270 

-

-

-

(10,761)

-

148,927 

-

(12,514)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

3,363 

29,067 

(17,752)

-

(10,761)

-

-

-

32,430 

(17,752)

-

(10,761)

-

(42,928)

(42,928)

(2,876)

146,051 

(9,941)

136,110

434,560 

41,590 

(14,093)

1,080,453 

-

-

(3,912)

(7,763)

-

(44,619)

121,826 

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(15,627)

-

(44,619)

26,916 

18,063 

-

-

-

1,107,369

18,063 

(15,627)

-

(44,619)

10,118 

131,944 

(4,739)

127,205

507,855 

33,827 

(3,975)

1,152,151 

40,240 

1,192,391

LIC. JOSÉ RIVERA RÍO ROCHA

FINANCING CORPORATIVE DIRECTOR

C.P. ALBERTO TORRADO MARTÍNEZ

GENERAL DIRECTOR

C.P. ABEL BARRERA FERMÍN

CORPORATIVE COMPTROLLER

(35)

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS

Alsea S. A. de C. V. and Subsidiaries
December 31, 2003 and 2002

(Thousands of constant Mexican pesos as of December 31, 2003)

Note 1. Description of business-

Alsea,  S.  A.  de  C.  V.  and  Subsidiaries  (“Alsea”  or  “the  Company”)  is  mainly  engaged  in  operating  fast-food  stores  and  restaurants.  In  Mexico,  Alsea  operates
Domino’s Pizza, Starbucks Coffee and Burger King. In Brazil, it operates Domino’s Pizza. The operation of its multi-units is supported by its distribution division
(“DIA”).

Note 2. Principles of consolidation and equity method-

(a) The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of Alsea, S. A. de C. V. and those subsidiary companies in which it holds a majority
interest (over 50%) and/or has control. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidation was
based on the audited financial statements of the issuing companies, which were prepared in accordance with Accounting Principles Generally Accepted in
México (Mexican GAAP).

The principal operating Subsidiaries and Associated companies are the following:

Operating
Operadora DP de México, S. A. de C. V.
Café Sirena, S. de R. L. de C. V.
De Libra, Ltda. (in Brazil)
Distribuidor Internacional de Alimentos, S. A. de C. V.

Associated
Operadora West, S.A. de C. V.
Cool Cargo, S. A. de C. V.

OWNERSHIP

ACTIVITY

99.99%
82.00%
99.99%
99.99%

31.56%
50.00%

Domino’s Pizza stores
Starbucks Coffee stores
Domino’s Pizza stores
Food distribution

Burger King restaurants
Transportation services

The  Company’s  investment  in  shares  of  associated  companies  has  been  accounted  under  the  equity  method  of  accounting,  based  on  audited  financial
statements prepared under the same accounting policies as those of the holding company (see note 7).

(b) Significant transactions-

- Value-added Tax (VAT) Law amendments in force since January 2003 consider take out sales food taxable. These amendments had a significant effect on
the Company’s operations. However, the implementation of several strategies allowed the Company to continue operating at its regular profit margins.
- During 2003 and through consecutive contributions, the Company increased its shareholding at Operadora West, S. A. de C. V. from 28.50% to 31.56%.
In February 2002, the Company entered into an association agreement with Starbucks Coffee International Inc. for promoting and developing the Starbucks
-
Coffee trademark in Mexico. At the end of 2003 and 2002 the Company operated 22 and 4 stores, respectively.

(c) Discontinued operations-

In January 2003 the Board of Directors resolved to desincorporate the subsidiaries: Exim del Caribe, S. A. de C. V. (Exim) and Para Servirle a Usted, S. A. de
C. V. (PSU) as they were deemed no strategic. As a result, the Company recognized its investment in Exim at estimated selling value and charged $19,174 to
income in 2003. Also in 2003, the Company sold PSU, recognizing a loss of $3,513 in the income statements. (See note 3a).

Note 3. Summary of significant accounting policies -

(a)  Financial statement presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared under Mexican GAAP and are expressed in Mexican pesos of constant purchasing
power, based on the Mexican National Consumer Price Index (NCPI), except for the matter referred to in paragraph (b) below.

(36)

The  financial  statements  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2002  include  certain  reclassifications  to  conform  to  the  classifications  used  in  2003.  Also,  the
financial statements for 2002 have been restructured for presenting the net result of discontinued operations and the balance sheet balances in a specific
caption without identifying current and non-current amounts, due to their immateriality.

(b)  Presentation of prior year amounts-

The figures of previously reported financial statements are stated in Mexican pesos of the same purchasing power, using a common restatement factor of
1.0435 and 1.0555 in 2003 and 2002, respectively, for asset, liability and results captions. Stockholders’ equity is restated using a factor derived from the
NCPI, which was 1.0397 and 1.0570 in those same years. The common factor was calculated using a weighted average of sales and considering inflation and
fluctuations in the exchange rate.

(c)  Foreign currency translation adjustment of subsidiaries

The financial statements of consolidated foreign subsidiaries have been adjusted for inflation in the respective country (Brazil) and, subsequently, translated
into Mexican pesos at the exchange rate prevailing at year end (balance sheet and income statement accounts). The exchange rate of the peso to the dollar
used by the Company is based on a weighted average of market exchange rates available for the settlement of transactions denominated in foreign currencies.

The “Effects of translating foreign currency financial statements” in stockholders’ equity represents the translation into pesos of financial information of foreign
subsidiaries.

(d)  Cash-

Includes all checking accounts, foreign currency and other highly liquid instruments. Interest income and expense and foreign exchange gains and losses are
included in the results of operations, under comprehensive financial results.

(e)  Inventories and cost of sales-

Originally valued using the last-in, first-out method and adjusted for inflation to replacement cost based on factors derived from the NCPI. Inventory values
thus determined do not exceed market values.

(f)  Goodwill of subsidiaries and associated companies

Represents the excess of cost over the fair value of assets of the investment in shares of subsidiaries and associated companies, is adjusted using NCPI factors
and amortized straight-line during the time the benefit of the investment is likely to materialize.

(g)  Property, equipment and leasehold improvements-

There  are  initially  recorded  at  acquisition  cost  and  adjusted  for  inflation  by  applying  NCPI  factors.  Depreciation  on  property,  equipment  and  leasehold
improvements is calculated on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, at the following annual rates: 

Buildings
Store equipment
Leasehold improvements  
Transportation equipment
Computer equipment
Production equipment
Office furniture and equipment

5%
10%
7.7% to10%
25%
30%
10%
10%

During 2003, the management of Operadora DP, S. A. de C. V. and Café Sirena, S. de R. L. de C. V. decided to change the amortization rate of leasehold
improvements from 5% to 7% and from 20% to 10%, respectively in order to adjust their useful life to their current operations. The net effect of this change
resulted in a charge to income of approximately $8,750 in 2003.

(h)

Intangible assets-
Represent payments for the right to use the trademarks “Domino’s Pizza” and “Starbucks Coffee” up to 2025 and 2021, respectively, and adjusted for inflation
based on NCPI factors applied to historical costs. Patents and trademarks are amortized straight-line at the annual rate of 5%. During 2003 the Company
acquired patents and trademarks for $13,806.

Expenses incurred in placing medium-term promissory notes in the securities markets are amortized over the maturing of the notes.

(i) Other assets-

Include mainly pre-operating and installation expenses relating to the opening of new stores in different areas and are stated at cost, adjusted for inflation based
on NCPI factors. Amortization is computed on adjusted asset values using the straight-line method, at the annual rate of 5%.

(37)

(j) Accruals-

The Company recognizes accruals for present obligations in which the transfer of assets or the rendering of services is virtually unavoidable and arises as a
consequence of past events, principally salaries and other amounts payable to employees.

(k) Seniority premium and other post retirement plans-

Pension and seniority premium benefits to which employees are entitled in accordance with the law are charged to operations for the year based on actuarial
computations of the present value of this obligation. Amortization of prior service cost, not yet recognized, is based on the estimated service lives of existing
personnel. 

Other compensation to which employees may be entitled, mainly severance, is charged to operations as incurred.

(l)

Income (IT) and asset (AT) taxes, and employee statutory profit sharing (ESPS)-
Provisions for IT and ESPS are recorded in the year in which they are due. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences
attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss
and tax credit (AT) carryforwards. Deferred tax assets are only recorded when it is likely to be recovered. Deferred ESPS is recognized only for timing differences
arising from the reconciliation of book income to income for profit sharing purposes, on which it may be reasonably estimated that a future liability or benefit
will arise and there is no indication that the liabilities or benefits will not materialize.

(m)  Restatement of capital stock, other stockholder contributions and retained earnings-

This adjustment is determined by multiplying stockholder contributions and retained earnings by factors derived from the NCPI, which measure accumulated
inflation from the dates contributed or generated toward the most recent year end. The resulting amounts represent the constant value of stockholders’ equity.

(n) Additional paid-in capital-

Represents the excess of the payments for subscribed shared over their normal price.

(o)  Comprehensive financial results (CFR)-

Include all interest income and expense, foreign exchange gains and losses, and monetary position gains and losses, reduced by the amounts capitalized.

Transactions in foreign currency are recorded at the exchange rate prevailing on the date of execution or settlement. Foreign currency assets and liabilities are
translated at the exchange rate in force at the balance sheet date. Exchange differences arising from assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies
are reported in operations for the year.

Monetary  position  gains  and  losses  are  determined  by  multiplying  the  difference  between  monetary  assets  and  liabilities  at  the  beginning  of  each  month,
including deferred taxes, by inflation factors toward year end. The resulting amount represents the monetary gain or loss for the year arising from inflation,
which is reported in operations for the year.

(p) Revenue recognition-

Revenue from product sales is recognized at the time of delivering the products to the customers.

(q)  Contingencies-

Liabilities for loss contingencies are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the assessment and/or remediation can
be  reasonably  estimated.  When  a  reasonable  estimation  cannot  be  made,  qualitative  disclosure  is  provided  in  the  notes  to  the  consolidated  financial
statements. Contingent revenues, earnings and assets are not recognized until their realization is virtually assured Also, the Company considers the rules for
disclosing commitments arising in the ordinary course of business.

(r)

Impairment of long-lived assets property, equipment, leasehold improvements, goodwill and other intangible assets-
The Company evaluates periodically the adjusted values of long-lived assets, property, equipment, leasehold improvements, goodwill and other intangible assets
to determine whether there is an indication of potential impairment. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured
by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying
amount or realizable value.

(s) Use of estimates-

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions affecting the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during
the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and assumptions.

(t)  Earnings per share-

Earnings per share equal the year’s net income divided by the weighted average of outstanding shares during the year.

(38)

(u) New pronouncements-

The Company adopted the new accounting pronouncements issued by the Mexican Institute of Public Accountants (IMCP) in Bulletins C-8 “Intangibles”, C-
9 “Liabilities, Accruals, Contingent Assets and Liabilities, and Commitments” and B-5 “Segment information”, effective for fiscal years beginning on or after
January 1, 2003 as well as in Bulletin C-15 “Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of”, which adoption is encouraged for
2003. The adoption of these Bulletins had no significant effect on the presentation of the Company’s financial information.

Note 4. Foreign currency exposure-

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in U.S. dollars (dollars) as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 were as follows:

Assets
Liabilities

Net liabilities

THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS

2003

4,741
5,615

874

2002

1,092
2,779

1,687

The exchange rate of the peso to the dollar, as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, was $11.22 and $10.36, respectively. At February 20, 2004, the exchange rate
was $10.84. 

At December 31, 2003, the Company did not have foreign exchange hedge instruments.

At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company foreign origin non-monetary asset and liability position or which replacement cost may only be determined in dollars
was immaterial.

Below is a summary of transactions carried out with foreign entities, for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002:

Food purchases
Equipment purchases
Royalties

THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS

2003

2002

52,860
1,818
7,154

47,543
1,433
6,727

Note 5. Balances and transactions with associated company-

At December 31, 2003 and 2002, accounts receivable from Operadora West, S. A. de C. V. amounted to $34,095 and $4,233, respectively.

During the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, sales of food and supplies to Operadora West, S. A. de C. V. amounted to $91,019 and $65,914, respectively.

Note 6. Inventories-

Comprise the following:

Food and beverages
Containers and packaging 
Other 
Less allowance for obsolete items

2003

2002

$

74,466
13,125
24,262
(3,994)

56,576
4,404
12,270
(3,295)

$

107,859

69,955

(39)

Note 7. Investment in shares of associated companies-

Comprise the direct ownership in the capital stock of the companies listed as follows:

Cool Cargo, S. A. de C. V.
Operadora West, S. A. de C. V.

Total investment in shares

EQUITY

2003

2002

$

$

2,024
68,746

1,382
45,694

70,770

47,076

EQUITY IN THE RESULTS OF

OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR

2003

648
8,763

9,411

2002

(196)
3,697

3,501

Note 8. Property, equipment and leasehold improvements-

Comprise the following:

Buildings
Store equipment
Leasehold improvements
Transportation equipment
Computer equipment
Production equipment
Office furniture and equipment

Less accumulated depreciation

Land
Installations in progress

2003

2002

$

77,768
338,340
437,481
90,396
87,966
108,728
24,463

83,872
333,769
401,551
120,079
89,220
92,757
19,724

1,165,142

1,140,972

384,503

340,511

780,639
31,589
20,078

800,461
31,703
130

$

832,306

832,294

Certain of the loans mentioned in note 9 are secured by some of the properties and equipment.

Note 9. Bank loans and medium-term promissory note-

Bank loans:
Comprise of the following:

Unsecured loans
Secured loan (note 8)

Less current installments

Long-term debt

MATURITY IN

2004-2005
2003-2005

AVERAGE ANNUAL

INTEREST RATE

2003

2002

1.7%-3.5%
2.0%-2.5%

$

32,375
10,532

42,907
23,957

42,175
23,932

66,107
36,073

$

18,950

30,034

(40)

Medium-term promissory note:
In August, 2000, Alsea executed a medium-term promissory note for $100,000, bearing interest at the TIIE rate plus 2 to 4 points, maturing in August 2004.

Bank loans and the medium-term promissory note establish certain covenants, the most significant of which refer to limitations on dividend payments, maintaining
certain  financial  ratios,  not  selling,  pledging  or  disposing  of  fixed  assets  without  reinvesting  the  sales  proceeds  for  purchasing  other  new  assets  in  the  same  or
immediately succeeding year. At the date of the financial statements, the Company was in compliance with all covenants.

Note 10. Seniority premiums, other post retirement plans and other liabilities -

The Company has a defined seniority premiums plan covering substantially all of its employees. The benefits are based on years of service.

The cost of the seniority premium plan have been determined based on computations prepared by independent actuaries. Plan contributions during 2003 and
2002 amounted to $348 and $376, respectively.

The actuarial present value of benefit obligations is as follows:

Accumulated benefit obligation (ABO)

Projected benefit obligation (PBO)

Net projected liability
Additional liability

Seniority premium, other post retirement plans and other liabilities

Assumptions used in determining the net periodic cost of the plan are as follows:

Rate of compensation increase
Discount rate

Note 11. Comprehensive financial results-

Comprise the following:

Interest expense, net
Foreign exchange loss, net
Monetary position gain

$

$

$

$

2003

994

1,074

1,054
7,200

8,254

2003

0.5%
4.5%

2002

827

968

827
10,034

10,861

2002

1.0%
4.5%

2003

2002

$

(5,022)
(137)
711

(16,093)
(3,144)
1,018

$

(4,448)

(18,219)

Note  12.  Income  (IT)  and  asset  (AT)  taxes,  employee  statutory  profit  sharing  (ESPS)  and  tax  loss
carryforwards-

The Company consolidates its results for IT and AT purposes.

For the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002 the Company had a consolidated net income of $75,342 and $134,453, respectively. The accounting and
taxable income vary because of the different tax and accounting treatment for recognizing the effects of inflation, the deduction of purchases over the cost of sales,
different depreciation and amortization rates, nondeductible expenses, accruals and others.

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities, at December 31, 2003 and 2002,
are presented below:

(41)

Deferred tax (assets) liabilities:
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Accruals
Advances from customers 
Seniority premium
Net operating tax loss carryforwards
Recoverable AT
Inventories
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements
Prepaid expenses
Other assets

Net deferred tax liability
Income tax payable on retained earnings

Liability recognized on the balance sheets

IT and ESPS charged to income is analyzed as follow:

Current IT and ESPS
Deferred IT and ESPS

Total

IT

2003

2002

$

(1,972)
(4,266)
(2,328)
(328)
(1,604)
(3,822)
34,617
25,534
1,636
41,081

88,548
13,305

(1,600)
(3,759)
(3,406)
(281)
(7,343)
(7,398)
26,566
11,477
3,299
33,323

50,878
17,363

$

101,853

68,241

2003

2002

IT

ESPS

IT

$

$

42,943
37,670

1,145
(381)

77,612
(1,693)

80,613

764

75,919

ESPS

1,857
-

1,857

The Company has tax loss carryforwards of $57,670, which, restated, may be carried forward to offset taxable income of the ten succeeding years. At December
31, 2003 Alsea has paid AT in the amount of $7,680, for which it may request a refund, provided that IT payable in any of the ten succeeding years exceeds the
AT of such years.

The Mexican IT Law provides that the IT rate will be reduced 1% each year beginning in 2003 to reach 32% in 2005. As a result of the changes in IT rate, in the
years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002 the Company recognized a decrease in net deferred tax liabilities of $516 and $5,150, respectively credited income.

Note 13. Stockholders’ equity-

The principal characteristics of stockholders’ equity are described below:

(a)  Structure of capital stock -

At the General Ordinary and Extraordinary Stockholders’ Meeting held in April 2003, it was agreed to declare dividends in the amount of $44,619 ($42,815
historical).

At the General Extraordinary and Ordinary Stockholders’ Meetings held in April 2002, it was resolved to increase the capital stock by $1,030 ($962 historical),
through the issue of 481,231 ordinary series, common class II shares, with no par value; also, it was proposed to declare an additional paid-in capital of $2,333
($2,165 historical).

The minimum fixed portion of capital stock is represented by Class I shares while the variable capital stock is represented by Class II shares, which in no event
shall exceed ten times the minimum capital stock with no right for withdrawal.

(42)

At December 31, 2003 the subscribed fixed and variable capital stock is represented by 116,769,017 common, registered shares with no par value, as shown
as follows:

NUMBER

OF SHARES

122,289,370
1,139,088
(6,659,441)

DESCRIPTION

Fixed capital stock
Variable capital stock
Repurchased shares reserve

116,769,017

Nominal capital stock

Inflation adjustments to remeasure accumulated inflation (note 3m.)

Capital stock at December 31, 2003

AMOUNT

$

244,579
2,278
(13,319)

233,538

149,469

$

383,007

The National Banking and Securities Commission established a procedure which allows companies to purchase its own shares in the market. To this end, a
“stock repurchase reserve” is required, which is charged to retained earnings.

The Board of Directors agreed to repurchase shares up to $56,400. At December 31, 2003, the available balance is $22,573.

The Company’s own available repurchased shares are reclassified to the contributed capital.

(b) Restrictions on stockholders’ equity-

Dividends paid out of retained earnings in the net tax profit (CUFIN) account shall be tax-free. Otherwise, they shall be subject to income taxes at the rate of
33%, payable on the amount that results from multiplying the dividends paid by the factor 1.4925. Taxes due on the payment of dividends not coming from
the CUFIN account shall be paid by the Company and may be credited against corporate IT of the following two years.

At December 31, 2003, the tax value of the reinvested CUFIN account is $20,470.

Note 14. Commitment and contingent liabilities-

Commitment:
The  Company  leases  facilities  for  stores  and  distribution  centers,  as  well  as  certain  transportation  equipment  and  store  equipment,  under  defined  term  lease
agreements. Total rental expense amounted to $96,475 in 2003 and increases annually based on the NCPI.

Contingent liabilities:
(a)  Alsea and subsidiaries are involved in a number of lawsuits and claims arising in the ordinary course of business. It is expected that the final outcome of these

matters will not have significant adverse effects on the Company’s financial position.

(b)  In accordance with the Income Tax Law, companies carrying out transactions with related parties are subject to certain requirements as to the determination

of prices, since such prices must be similar to those that would be used in arm’s-length transactions.

Note 15. Segment information-

The Company is organized into four large operating divisions comprised by pizza sale services (Domino’s Pizza), coffee sale services (Starbucks Coffee), distribution
services and other businesses, all led by the same management. The Company’s segments constitute strategic business units offering various products and handled
separately based on different marketing strategies and technology.

(43)

Segment information is as follows:

AMOUNTS IN MILLIONS OF PESOS

BUSINESS UNITS

DOMINO’S

PIZZA

STARBUCKS

COFFEE

DISTRIBUTION

OTHER

ELIMINATIONS

CONSOLIDATED

2003

2002

2003

2002

2003

2002

2003

2002

2003

2002

2003

2002

Revenue from:
Third parties
Inter business unit

Operating costs and expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Operating income

Other income statement items
Net consolidated income 

$ 1,819
97
1,916

1,666
111
139

$

1,799
23
1,822

1,552
92
178

Assets
Investment in productive assets:
Investment in associated companies
Investment in assets

1,152

1,029

–
54

–
124

76
–
76

80
8
(12)

63

–
67

Total assets

$ 1,206

1,153

130

6
–
6

11
1
(6)

42

–
38

80

865
643
1,508

1,369
24
115

845
569
1,414

1,302
23
89

6
120
126

106
11
9

17
32
49

37
5
7

(36)
(860)
(896)

(885)
1
(10)

(39)
(624)
(663)

(665)
–
2

2,730
–
2,730

2,336
153
241

2,628
–
2,628

2,237
121
270

(119)
122

(121)
149

502

439

1,493

1,280 (1,701)

(1,384)

1,509

1,406

2
7

1
7

70
–

46
29

–
–

–
–

72
128

47
198

511

447

1,563

1,355 (1,701)

(1,384)

1,709

1,651

Total liabilities

$

385

280

19

7

183

178

412

285

(482)

(206)

517

544

The “eliminations” caption is included for purposes of presenting each division’s comprehensive results.

Domino’s Pizza activities are conducted in Mexico and Brazil. Mexico accounts for approximately 94% of this segment’s total revenues.

Note 16. Subsequent events-

(a)

In January 2004, Alsea increased its equity interest in Operadora West, S. A. de C. V. (OWEST), a franchisee of Burger King Corporation, by 31.49% for a total
of 63.05%. Consequently, as of such date the results of operations of OWEST are included in the consolidated financial statements.  

(b)

In order to promote the exchange of the Company’s shares, and in conformity with corresponding securities rules, the Board of Directors agreed with a stock
exchange broker the issuance of five million shares out of the repurchase shares stock off the exchange floor.

LIC. JOSÉ RIVERA RÍO ROCHA

FINANCING CORPORATIVE DIRECTOR

C.P. ALBERTO TORRADO MARTÍNEZ

GENERAL DIRECTOR

C.P. ABEL BARRERA FERMÍN

CORPORATIVE COMPTROLLER

(44)

INFORMATION FOR SHAREHOLDERS

(HEADQUARTERS)

Alsea S.A. de C.V.

Yucatan 23

Hipodromo Condesa,

06170, Mexico D.F.

Phone (55) 5241.7100

(INFORMATION ON ALSEA’S STOCK AND

(INDEPENDENT AUDITORS)

MEDIUM-TERM PROMISSORY NOTE)

KPMG Cardenas Dosal, S.C.

Alsea, S.A. de C.V., trades its single series shares on the Mexican

Bosque de Duraznos 55 P.J.

Stock Exchange as of June 25, 1999. Likewise, the Company’s

Bosques de las Lomas,

public offer of the medium-term promissory note took place on

11700, Mexico D.F.

August 25, 2000.

Phone (55) 5246.8300

Fax (55) 5596.8060

(REFERENCE SYMBOLS FOR THE STOCK)

(CORPORATE GOVERNANCE)

BMV

ALSEA*

Bloomberg ALSEA*

Reuters

ALSEA.MX

Infosel

ALSEA*

One share, one vote

Dividends Policy: 30% of Accumulated Earnings

44% Independent Directors

(REFERENCE SYMBOLS FOR THE MEDIUM-TERM

PROMISSORY NOTE)

BMV

ALSEA P00

Bloomberg ALSEA

Reuters

ALEFL00P=MX

Infosel

ALSEA

(CONTACT)

Lizette Chang

Investor Relations

lchang@alsea.com.mx

Phone: (55) 5241.7158

www.alsea.com.mx

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ALSEA, S.A. de C.V.
Yucatán 23, Hipódromo Condesa, 06170,

México D.F., Phone (55) 5241.7100

www.alsea.com.mx