Quarterlytics / Consumer Cyclical / Restaurants / Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.

cbrl · NASDAQ Consumer Cyclical
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Ticker cbrl
Exchange NASDAQ
Sector Consumer Cyclical
Industry Restaurants
Employees 77600
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FY2016 Annual Report · Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.
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CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC.
Directors

Thomas H. Barr 
President of Sono Bello; former 
Vice President, Global Coffee at 
Starbucks Corporation

James W. Bradford 
Chairman of the Board; Retired; former 
Dean and Professor for the Practice of  
Management at Vanderbilt University’s 
Owen Graduate School of Management

Sandra B. Cochran 
President and CEO of 
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.

Glenn A. Davenport 
President of G.A. Food Service, Inc.;
former Chairman and CEO of Morrison 
Management Specialists

Richard J. Dobkin 
Retired; former Managing Partner of the
Tampa, FL office of Ernst & Young, LLP

Norman E. Johnson 
Retired; former Executive Chairman
and CEO of CLARCOR, Inc.

William W. McCarten 
Retired; former Chairman of the 
board of directors of DiamondRock  
Hospitality Company

Coleman H. Peterson 
President and CEO of Hollis Enterprises,
LLC; former Chief People Officer of
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Andrea M. Weiss 
President and CEO of Retail 
Consulting, Inc.; former 
President of dELiA*s Corp.

UNITED STATES 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 

FORM 10-K 

(Mark One) 
[x] Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 

For the fiscal year ended July 29, 2016 

OR 

[ ] Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 

For the transition period from   

 to  

Commission file number: 000-25225 

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. 
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 

Tennessee 
(State or other jurisdiction of 
incorporation or organization) 

305 Hartmann Drive 
Lebanon, Tennessee 
(Address of principal executive offices) 

62-0812904 
(I.R.S. Employer 
Identification Number) 

37087-4779 
(Zip code) 

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (615) 444-5533 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: 

Title of each class 
Common Stock (Par Value $.01) 
Rights to Purchase Series A Junior Participating 
Preferred Stock (Par Value $0.01) 

Name of each exchange on which registered 
The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC 
(NASDAQ Global Select Market)  

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None  

Indicate  by  check  mark  if  the  registrant  is  a  well-known  seasoned  issuer,  as  defined  in  Rule  405  of  the 

Securities Act.     Yes (cid:59)    No (cid:133) 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of 

the Act.     Yes (cid:133)    No (cid:59) 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) 
of  the  Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934  during  the  preceding  12  months  (or  for  such  shorter  period  that  the 
registrant  was  required  to file  such  reports)  and  (2)  has  been  subject  to  such filing  requirements for  the  past  90 
days.     Yes (cid:59)    No (cid:133) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Indicate  by  check mark  whether  the  registrant  has  submitted  electronically  and  posted  on  its  corporate Web 
site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T 
(§ 232.405  of  this  chapter)  during  the  preceding  12  months  (or  for  such  shorter  period  that  the  registrant  was 
required to submit and post such files).  Yes (cid:59)    No (cid:133) 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of 
this chapter) (cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:74)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:78)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)
proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this 
Form 10-K.    (cid:59) 

Indicate  by  check  mark  whether  the  registrant  is  a  large  accelerated  filer,  an  accelerated  filer,  a  non-
(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:180)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:180)(cid:3)
(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:180)(cid:86)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:21)(cid:69)-2 of the Exchange Act.  

Large accelerated filer (cid:59) 

Non-accelerated filer    (cid:133) 

Accelerated filer  (cid:133) 

Smaller reporting company  (cid:133) 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). 
Yes (cid:133)    No (cid:59) 

The aggregate market value of voting stock held by nonaffiliates of the registrant as of January 29, 2016 (the 

(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:74)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)) was $3,109,756,667.   

As of September 19, 2016, there were 24,028,896 shares of common stock outstanding. 

Documents Incorporated by Reference 

Document from which Portions 
are Incorporated by Reference 

1.  Proxy Statement for Annual Meeting of  

Shareholders to be held November 17, 2016 
(cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)2016 (cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:91)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:180)(cid:12) 

Part of Form 10-K 
into which incorporated 

Part III 

 2 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PART I 

PAGE 

INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................................... 4(cid:3)
ITEM 1.    BUSINESS ............................................................................................................................................. 5(cid:3)
ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS ................................................................................................................................... 11(cid:3)
ITEM 1B.  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS .................................................................................................. 23(cid:3)
ITEM 2.    PROPERTIES ...................................................................................................................................... 23(cid:3)
ITEM 3.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS ...................................................................................................................... 24(cid:3)
                EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT ................................................................................ 24(cid:3)

PART II 

ITEM 5.   MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS  

                AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES ..................................................................... 25(cid:3)
ITEM 6.   SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA ............................................................................................................. 26(cid:3)

ITEM 7.   MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS     

               OF OPERATIONS.................................................................................................................................. 27(cid:3)
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK. ................................ 42(cid:3)
ITEM 8.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA .............................................................. 44(cid:3)

ITEM 9.   CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND  

                FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE ................................................................................................................... 69(cid:3)
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES ....................................................................................................... 70(cid:3)

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION ....................................................................................................................... 72 

PART III 

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE ................................... 72(cid:3)
ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION ........................................................................................................... 72(cid:3)

ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND 

                 RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS .............................................................................................. 72(cid:3)

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR   

                INDEPENDENCE ..................................................................................................................................72(cid:3)

ITEM 14.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES ........................................................................... 72 

PART IV 

ITEM 15.  EXHIBITS, AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.................................................................. 72(cid:3)

SIGNATURES ....................................................................................................................................................... 73(cid:3)

INDEX TO EXHIBITS ............................................................................................................................................ 74(cid:3)

 3 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
General 

INTRODUCTION 

This report contains references to years 2016, 2015 and 2014, which represent our fiscal years ended July 
29, 2016, July  31,  2015 and August  1, 2014, respectively.   All of the  discussion in this report should be read 
with,  and  is  qualified  in  its  entirety  by,  the  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  and  the  notes  thereto.    All 
amounts other than share and certain statistical information (e.g., number of stores) are in thousands unless the 
context clearly  indicates otherwise.   Similarly, references to a  year or quarter are to our fiscal  year or quarter 
unless expressly noted or the context clearly indicates otherwise. 

Forward-Looking Statements/Risk Factors 

Except for specific historical information, many of the matters discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, 
as well as other documents incorporated herein by reference, may express or imply projections of items such as 
revenues or expenditures, estimated capital expenditures, compliance with debt covenants, plans and objectives 
for  future  operations,  store  economics,  inventory  shrinkage,  growth  or  initiatives,  expected  future  economic 
performance or the expected outcome or impact of pending or threatened litigation. These and similar statements 
(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:74)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3)
in  the  future  are  forward-looking  statements  that,  by  their  nature,  involve  risks,  uncertainties  and  other  factors 
which may cause our actual results and performance to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such 
forward-looking  statements.  All  forward-looking  information  is  provided  pursuant  to  the  safe  harbor  established 
under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and should be evaluated in the context of these risks, 
uncertainties  and  other  factors.  Forward-looking  statements  generally  can  be  identified  by  the  use  of  forward-
looking terminology such (cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:74)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:82)(cid:78)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:73)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)
(cid:179)(cid:74)(cid:82)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:82)(cid:69)(cid:77)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)-(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:74)-(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:77)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:92)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)
(cid:179)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:74)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:77)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)
the  negative  or  other  derivatives  of  each  of  these  terms)  or  similar  terminology.    We  believe  the  assumptions 
underlying any forward-looking statements are reasonable; however, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, 
and  therefore,  actual  results  may  differ  materially  from  those  projected  in  or  implied  by  the  forward-looking 
statements.    In  addition  to  the  risks  of  ordinary  business  operations,  and  those  discussed  or  described  in  this 
report or in information incorporated by reference into this report, factors and risks that may result in actual results 
differing from this forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, those contained in Part I, Item 1A of 
(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:44)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:26)(cid:3) of this 
report  (cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:54)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:54)(cid:40)(cid:38)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3)
releases and other communications. 

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements made in this report, 
since the statements speak only as of the report’s date.  Except as may be required by law, we have no 
obligation  or  intention  to  publicly  update  or  revise  any  of  these  forward-looking  statements  to  reflect 
events  or  circumstances  occurring  after  the  date  of  this  report  or  to  reflect  the  occurrence  of 
unanticipated  events.    Readers  are  advised,  however,  to  consult  any  future  public  disclosures  that  we 
may  make  on  related  subjects  in  reports  that  we  file  with  or  furnish  to  the  SEC  or  in  our  other  public 
disclosures. 

 4 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS 

OVERVIEW 

PART I 

(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:90)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)Company,(cid:180) which reference, unless the context 
requires  otherwise,  also  includes  our  direct  and  indirect  wholly-owned  subsidiaries),  is  principally  engaged  in  the 
(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:50)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:138)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:3) We  are 
headquartered in Lebanon, Tennessee and were originally founded in 1969.  We are organized under the laws of 
the State of Tennessee.   

We  maintain  a  website  at  crackerbarrel.com.    We  make  available  free  of  charge  through  our  website  our 
periodic and other reports filed with or furnished to the SEC pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as 
amended (cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:180)(cid:12), as soon as reasonably practicable after we file such material with, or furnish it to, 
the  SEC.    Information  on  our  website  is  not  deemed  to  be  incorporated  by  reference  into  this  Annual  Report  on 
Form 10-K or any other filings that we make from time to time with the SEC. 

OPERATIONS 

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store 

As  of  September  19,  2016,  we  operated  640  Cracker  Barrel  stores  in  43  states.    None  of  our  stores  are 
franchised.  Our stores are intended to appeal to both the traveler and the local customer, and we believe they have 
consistently been a consumer favorite.  We pride ourselves on our consistent quality,  value and friendly service.  
The dedication and commitment of our operating teams continues to be broadly recognized by consumers. Nation’s 
Restaurant News 2016 Consumer Picks survey named Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® the Best Family-Dining 
Restaurant  in  America.    Furthermore,  Cracker  Barrel  was  recognized  in  2016  as  the  winner  among  full  service 
restaurants  in  the  Value  Through  Service  category  by  Technomic,  Inc.,  a  leading  consulting  and  research  firm 
serving the food industry.  We believe these recognitions reaffirm the affinity guests have for our brand, as each of 
these awards represents the voice and votes of consumers.     

Store Format: The format of our stores consists of a trademarked rustic old country-store design offering a full-
service restaurant menu that features home-style country food and a wide variety of decorative and functional items 
such  as  rocking  chairs,  holiday  and  seasonal  gifts  and  toys,  apparel,  cookware  and  foods.    All  stores  are 
freestanding buildings.  Store interiors are subdivided into a dining room occupying approximately 27% of the total 
interior store space, a gift shop occupying approximately 23% of such space and the balance primarily consisting of 
kitchen,  storage  and  training  areas.    Our  stores  have  stone  fireplaces  and  are  decorated  with  antique-style 
furnishings and other authentic and nostalgic items, reminiscent of and similar to those found and sold in the past in 
traditional old country stores.  The front porch of each store features rows of the signature Cracker Barrel rocking 
chairs that can be used by guests while waiting for a table in our dining room or after enjoying a meal and are sold 
by  the  gift  shop.    The  kitchens  contain  modern  food  preparation  and  storage  equipment  allowing  for  flexibility  in 
menu variety and development. 

Products:  Our restaurants, which generated approximately 80% of our total revenue in 2016, offer home-style 
country cooking featuring many of our own recipes that emphasize authenticity and quality.  Except for Christmas 
Day,  when  they  are  closed,  and  Christmas  Eve,  when  they  close  at  2:00  p.m.,  our  restaurants  serve  breakfast, 
lunch  and  dinner  daily  between  the  hours  of  6:00  a.m.  and  10:00  p.m.  (closing  at  11:00  p.m.  on  Fridays  and 
Saturdays).  Menu items are moderately priced.  The restaurants do not serve alcoholic beverages.   

 5 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Breakfast items can be ordered at any time throughout the day and include juices, eggs, pancakes,  fruit and 
yogurt  parfaits,  pork  and  turkey  bacon,  country  ham,  sausage,  grits,  and  a  variety  of  biscuit  specialties,  such  as 
gravy  and  biscuits  and  country  ham  and  biscuits.    Lunch  and  dinner  items  include  country  ham,  chicken  and 
dumplings, chicken fried chicken, meatloaf, country fried steak, pork chops, fish, steak, roast beef, vegetable plates, 
a variety of salads, sandwiches, soups, fresh side items and specialty items such as pinto beans and turnip greens.  
We  also  offer  lower  calorie  breakfast,  lunch  and  dinner  items,  which  are  full  of  flavor  but  with  fewer  calories.  
Additionally, we may from time to time feature new items as off-menu specials or in test menus at certain locations 
to  evaluate  possible  ways  to  enhance  customer  interest  and  identify  potential  future  additions  to  the  menu.    We 
offer weekday lunch specials, which include some of our favorite entrées in lunch-sized portions.  Our menu also 
features weekday and weekend dinner specials that showcase a popular dinner entrée.  There is some variation in 
menu pricing and content in different regions of the country for both breakfast and lunch/dinner. The average check 
per guest during 2016 was $10.63, which represents a 3.5% increase over the prior year.  We served an average of 
approximately 6,600 restaurant guests per week in a typical store in 2016.    

The following table highlights the price ranges for our meals in 2016: 

Breakfast 
Lunch and Dinner 

The following table highlights each day-(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)2016: 

Breakfast Day-Part (until 11:00 a.m.) 
Lunch Day-Part (11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) 
Dinner Day-Part (4:00 p.m. to close) 

Prices Range 
$3.39 to $11.89 
$4.39 to $16.69 

Percentage of 
Restaurant 
Sales in 2016 
24% 
39% 
37% 

We also offer items for sale in our gift shops that are featured on, or related to, the restaurant menu, such as 
pies, cornbread mix, coffee, syrups and pancake mixes. Our gift shops, which generated approximately 20% of our 
total revenue in 2016, offer a wide variety of decorative and functional items such as rocking chairs, seasonal gifts, 
apparel, toys, music CDs, cookware, a book-on-audio sale-and-exchange program and various other gift items, as 
well as various candies, preserves and other food items.   

The following table highlights the five categories which accounted for the largest shares of our retail sales  in 

2016: 

Apparel and Accessories 
Food 
Décor 
Toys 
Bed and Bath 

Percentage of 
Retail Sales in 
2016 
31% 
18% 
13% 
12% 
  9% 

Our typical gift shop features approximately 4,200 stock keeping units.  A selection of the food items are sold 
(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:58)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)
foot of retail selling space (approximately $441 per square foot in 2016) as compared to mall stores both by offering 
appealing merchandise and by having a significant source of customers who are typically our restaurant guests.   

We also sell certain licensed food products under the (cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:37)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:72) in the grocery store 
and retail channels.  These licensed food products currently include ham, premium bacon, deli meat, jerky, summer 
sausage, baking mix and gravy mix.   

 6 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Product Development and Merchandising:  We maintain a product development department, which develops 
new and improved menu items either in response to shifts in customer preferences or to create customer interest.  
We  use  a  formal  development  and  testing  process,  which  includes  guest  research  and  in-store  market  tests  to 
ensure  products  brought  to  market  have  a  greater  likelihood  of  meeting  our  goals.    Menu-driven  growth  is  built 
through three areas:  enhancements to our current core menu offerings, the addition of new core menu offerings 
and limited time offer promotions we call seasonal events.   Our merchandising department selects and develops 
products for our gift shop.  We are focused on driving retail sales by converting those customers who come to us for 
a  restaurant  visit.    Our  assortment  includes  core  and  seasonal  themes.    Our  seasonal  themes  are  designed  to 
create interest and excitement in our stores by providing our guests with additional choices.   Our licensees develop 
new  licensed  food  products  under  our  direction  for  consideration  and  approval.    We  intend  to  add  additional 
licensees and licensed food products in the future.    

Store  Management  and  Quality  Controls:  At  each  store,  our  store  management  typically  consists  of  one 
general manager, four associate managers and one retail manager.  Our store management is responsible for 
an  average  of  105  employees  operating  two  shifts.    The  relative  complexity  of  operating  one  of  our  stores 
requires  an  effective management team at the  individual store level.   To motivate store managers to improve 
sales  and  operational  performance,  we  maintain  bonus  plans  designed  to  provide  store  managers  with  an 
opportunity to share in the profits of their store.  The bonus plans also reward managers who achieve specific 
operational  targets.    Each  store  is  assigned  to  both  a  restaurant  and  a  retail  district  manager.    We  employ 
ninety-two  restaurant  district  managers  and  ten  restaurant  regional  vice  presidents.    Each  restaurant  district 
manager  oversees  seven  to  nine  stores  and  each  restaurant  regional  vice  president  oversees  eight  to  ten 
district  managers.    Each  restaurant  district  manager  is  assigned  to  a  restaurant  regional  vice  president.    We 
also employ fifty-two retail district managers, two retail regional directors and four retail regional vice presidents.  
Each  retail  district  manager  oversees  ten  to  fifteen  retail  stores.    Each  retail  director  oversees  four  district 
managers.    Each  retail  regional  vice  president  oversees  eight  to  thirteen  retail  district managers.    Two  of  the 
retail regional vice presidents each oversee one of the two regional directors.   The various levels of restaurant 
and retail management work closely together to allow our stores to deliver a unique, integrated  employee and 
guest experience. 

To ensure that individual stores are operated at a high level of quality, we focus significant attention on the 
selection and training of store managers.  The store management recruiting and training program begins with an 
evaluation and screening process.  In addition to multiple interviews and verification of background and experience, 
we  conduct  assessments  designed  to  identify  those  applicants  most  likely  to  be  best  suited  to  manage  store 
operations.  Candidates  who  successfully  pass  this  screening  process  are  then  required  to  complete  a  training 
program.  The restaurant manager training program consists of three weeks of training at our home office and five 
weeks of in-store training.  The retail manager training program consists of two weeks of training at our home office 
and three weeks of in-store training.  We believe that our training programs develop managers who can effectively 
deliver  a  great  employee  and  guest  experience  through  the  leadership  and  execution  of  our  operating  systems.  
These programs allow new managers the opportunity to become familiar with our operations, culture, management 
objectives, controls and evaluation criteria before assuming management responsibility.  We provide our managers 
and  hourly  employees  with  ongoing  training  through  various  development  courses  taught  through  a  blended 
learning approach, including a mix of hands-on, traditional classroom, written and cloud-based training.  Each store 
is  equipped  with  dedicated  training  computers  and  cloud-based  proprietary  eLearning  instruction  programs.  
Additionally,  each  store  typically  has  an  employee  training  coordinator  who  oversees  the  (cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)
hourly employees.  

Purchasing  and  Distribution:  We  negotiate  directly  with  food  vendors  as  to  specification,  price  and  other 
material terms of most food purchases.  We have a contract with an unaffiliated distributor with custom distribution 
centers in Lebanon, Tennessee; McKinney, Texas; Gainesville, Florida; Elkton, Maryland; Kendalville, Indiana; and 
Ft.  Mill,  South  Carolina.    We  purchase  the  majority  of  our  food  products  and  restaurant  supplies  on  a  cost-plus 
basis through this unaffiliated distributor.   The distributor is responsible for placing food orders, warehousing and 
delivering food products to our stores.  Deliveries are generally made once per week to individual stores.  Produce 
is purchased through a national program and is delivered three times a week through a network of approximately 
fifty independent produce suppliers.  Fluid dairy is delivered three times a week through approximately fifty regional 
dairies, the majority of which are under the ownership of two separate companies. 

 7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The  following  table  highlights  the  five  food  categories  which  accounted  for  the  largest  shares  of  our  food 

purchasing expense in 2016: 

Beef 
Dairy (including eggs) 
Fruits and vegetables  
Pork 
Poultry 

Percentage of 
Food Purchases 
in 2016 
15% 
13% 
12% 
11% 
11% 

Each  of  these  categories  includes  several  individual  items.    The  single  food  item  within  these  categories 
that accounted for the largest share of our food purchasing expense in 2016 was bacon at approximately 4% of 
total  food  purchases.    Dairy,  fruits  and  vegetables  are  purchased  through  numerous  vendors,  including  local 
vendors.    Eggs  are  purchased  through  four  vendors.    We  purchase  our  pork  through  six  vendors  and  we 
purchase  our  beef  and  poultry  each  through  nine  vendors.    Should  any  food  items  from  a  particular  vendor 
become  unavailable,  we  generally  believe  that  these  food  items  could  be  obtained,  or  alternative  products 
substituted,  in  sufficient  quantities  from  other  sources  at  competitive  prices  to  allow  us  to  avoid  any  material 
adverse effects that could be caused by such unavailability.  

We  purchase  the  majority  of  our  retail  items  (approximately  80%  in  2016)  directly  from  domestic  and 
international  vendors  and  warehouse,  or  crossdock,  such  items  at  our  retail  distribution  center  in  Lebanon, 
Tennessee,  which  we  lease.    The  distribution  center  fulfills  retail  item  orders  generated  by  our  automated 
replenishment  system  and  generally  ships  the  retail  orders  once  a  week  to  the  individual  stores  by  a  third-party 
dedicated freight line.  Certain retail items, not centrally purchased and warehoused at the distribution center, are 
drop-shipped  directly  by  our  vendors  to  individual  stores.    Approximately  one-third  of  our  2016  retail  items  were 
purchased directly from vendors in the Pe(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:88)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68) and, in 2014, we began making retail purchases 
from vendors in India, Thailand,  the Philippines and Vietnam.  We have relationships with  several foreign buying 
agencies to source product, monitor quality control and supplement product development. 

Operational and Inventory Controls: Our information technology and telecommunications systems and various 
analytical tools are used to evaluate store operating information and provide management with reports to support 
prompt  detection  of  unusual  variances  in  food  costs,  labor  costs  or  operating  expenses.    Management  also 
monitors individual store restaurant and retail sales on a daily basis and closely monitors sales mix, sales trends, 
operational  costs  and  inventory  levels.  The  information  generated  by  the  information  technology  and 
telecommunication  systems,  analysis  tools  and  monitoring  processes  is  used  to  manage  the  operations  of  each 
store, replenish retail inventory levels and facilitate retail purchasing decisions.  These systems and processes also 
are used in the development of forecasts, budget analyses and planning. 

Guest  Satisfaction:    We  are  committed  to  providing  our  guests  a  home-style,  country-cooked  meal,  and  a 
variety of retail merchandise served and sold with genuine hospitality in a comfortable environment, in a way that 
evokes memories of the past.  Our commitment to offering guests a quality experience begins with our employees.  
(cid:50)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:51)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:72)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:69)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:74)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85) employees are trained 
on the importance of that mission in a culture of mutual respect.  We also are committed to staffing each store with 
an  experienced  management  team  to  ensure  attentive  guest  service  and  consistent  food  quality.    Through  the 
regular  use  of  guest  surveys  and  store  visits  by  district  managers  and  regional  vice  presidents,  management 
receives  valuable  feedback  that  is  used  in  our  ongoing  efforts  to  improve  the  stores  and  to  demonstrate  our 
continuing  commitment  to  pleasing  our  guests.   We  have  a  guest-relations  call  center  that  takes  comments  and 
suggestions from guests and forwards them to operations or other management for information and follow up.  We 
use Internet and interactive voice response systems to monitor operational performance and guest satisfaction at all 
stores  on  an  ongoing  basis.    We  have  public  notices  in  our  menus,  on  our  website  and  posted  in  our  stores 
informing  customers  and  employees  about  how  to  contact  us  by  Internet  or  toll-free  telephone  number  with 
questions,  complaints  or  concerns  regarding  services  or  products.    We  conduct  training  on  how  to  gather 
information  and  investigate  and  resolve  customer  concerns.    This  is  accompanied  by  comprehensive  training 
for all store employees on our public accommodations policy and commitment to (cid:179)Pleasing People.(cid:180)   

 8 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Marketing: We employ multiple mediums to reach and engage our guests.  Outdoor advertising (i.e., billboards 
and state department of transportation signs) is the  largest advertising vehicle we use to reach our traveling and 
local guests. In 2016, we had over 1,700 billboards and this expenditure accounted for 37% of our total advertising 
spend.  Outdoor advertising is also expected to represent approximately 34% of advertising expenditures in 2017.  
We believe we are among the top billboard advertisers in the restaurant industry.  Our use of non-billboard media 
has increased in recent years as we look to build market awareness for local occasions.  This increased support 
has  used  broadcast  television,  national  cable  and  digital  support.    In  2016,  we  ran  media  in  each  quarter.    We 
continue to increase our efforts in the digital space to drive preference and engagement with the brand.  We now 
have  properties  on  multiple  social  media  sites,  including  a  customer  relationship  management  program,  an  e-
commerce platform and our brand site.  Our exclusive music program drives awareness for the brand and builds 
cultural  relevance  and  affinity  with  our  guests.    We  continue  to  have  multiple  releases  each  year  with  specific 
promotional  support  for  each  release.    In  2017,  we  plan  to  spend  approximately  2.9%  of  our  revenues  on 
advertising compared to 2.7% of revenues in 2016.   

Store Development:  We opened four new stores and closed two stores in 2016. We plan to open seven or 
eight new stores during 2017.  As of September 19, 2016, approximately 83% of our stores are located along 
interstate highways.  Our remaining stores are located off-interstate or near tourist destinations.  We believe we 
should pursue development of both interstate locations and off-interstate locations to capitalize on the strength 
of our brand associated with travelers on the interstate highway system and by locating in certain local markets 
where our guests live and work, including locations outside of our existing core markets and in states where we 
currently do not operate.   

Of the 640 stores open as of September 19, 2016, we own the land and buildings for 416, while the other 
224  properties  are  either  ground  leases  or  ground  and  building  leases.    Building,  site  improvement,  furniture, 
equipment and related development costs for stores opened during 2016 averaged $3,587.  Pre-opening costs 
averaged $494 per store in 2016.  

Our current store prototype is approximately  9,000 square feet, including approximately 2,100 square feet 
of retail selling space, and has dining room seating for 180 guests.  Our capital investment in new stores may 
differ  in  the  future  due  to  changes  in  our  store  prototype,  building  design  specifications,  site  location  and  site 
characteristics.   

Holler & Dash 

In 2016, the Company launched its new fast casual concept, Holler & Dash Biscuit HouseTM. The concept 
offers  biscuit-inspired  entrées  and  a  unique  portfolio  of  alcoholic  and  non-alcoholic  beverage  options.  At  both 
July  29,  2016  and  September  19,  2016,  two  Holler  &  Dash  locations  were  open  -  both  leased  properties  in 
Alabama. The new concept is a smaller footprint and has operating hours limited to the breakfast and lunch day 
parts.  

EMPLOYEES 

As of July 29, 2016, we employed approximately 73,000 people, of whom 501 were in advisory and supervisory 
capacities, 3,733 were in-store management positions and 37 were officers.  Many store personnel are employed 
on  a  part-time  basis.    None  of  our  employees  is  represented  by  any  union,  and  management  considers  its 
employee relations to be good. 

 9 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COMPETITION 

The restaurant and retail industries are intensely competitive with respect to the type and quality of food, retail 
merchandise, price, service, location, personnel, concept, attractiveness of facilities and effectiveness of advertising 
and marketing.  We compete with a significant number of national and regional restaurant and retail chains, some 
of  which  have  greater  resources  than  us,  as  well  as  locally  owned  restaurants  and  retail  stores.    We  also  face 
(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)
entrées  and  side  dishes  from  the  deli  section;  fast  casual  restaurants;  quick-service  restaurants;  and  highly 
promotional casual and family dining restaurants.  We expect competition to continue in all of these areas, which 
could cause consumers to choose less expensive alternatives. The restaurant and retail businesses are also often 
affected  by  changes  in  consumer  taste  and  preference;  national,  regional  or  local  economic  conditions; 
demographic  trends;  traffic  and  weather  patterns;  the  type,  number  and  location  of  competing  restaurants  and 
retailers;  and  con(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:72)(cid:85).    In  addition,  factors  such  as  inflation,  increased  food, 
labor and benefits costs and the lack of experienced management and hourly employees may adversely affect the 
restaurant and retail industries in general and our stores in particular.  We believe we compete effectively and have 
successfully differentiated ourselves from many of our competitors in the restaurant and retail industries through a 
unique brand and guest experience, which offers a diversified full service menu and a large variety of nostalgic and 
unique retail items.  For further information regarding competition, see Item 1A. Risk Factors. 

RAW MATERIALS SOURCES AND AVAILABILITY 

Essential restaurant supplies and raw materials are generally available from several sources.   Generally,  we 
are not dependent upon single sources of supplies or raw materials.  However, in our stores, certain branded items 
are single source products or product lines.  Our ability to maintain consistent quality throughout our store system 
depends in part upon our ability to acquire food products and related items from reliable sources.  When the supply 
of certain products is uncertain or prices are expected to rise significantly, we may enter into purchase contracts or 
purchase bulk quantities for future use. 

Adequate alternative sources of supply, as well as the ability to adjust menus if needed, are believed to exist for 
substantially all of our restaurant products.  Our retail supply chain generally involves longer lead-times and, often, 
(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:51)(cid:72)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:88)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:75)ina,  and  most  of  our  retail  product  is 
distributed to our stores through a single distribution center.  Although disruption of our retail supply chain could be 
difficult to overcome, we continuously evaluate the potential for disruptions and ways to mitigate such disruptions 
should they occur. 

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS 

Federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations have not historically had a significant impact on our 
operations; however, we cannot predict the effect of possible future environmental legislation or regulations on our 
operations. 

TRADEMARKS 

We  deem  the  various  Cracker  Barrel  trademarks  and  service marks  that  we  own  to  be  of  substantial  value.  
Our policy is to obtain federal registration of trademarks and other intellectual property whenever possible and to 
pursue vigorously any infringement of our trademarks and service marks. 

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 

While  research  and  development  is  important  to  us,  these  expenditures  have  not  been  material  due  to  the 

nature of the restaurant and retail industries. 

 10

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SEASONAL ASPECTS 

Historically,  our  revenue  and  profits  have  been  lower  in  the  first  and  third  fiscal  quarters  and  higher  in  the 
second and fourth fiscal quarters.  We attribute these variations primarily to the Christmas holiday shopping season 
and the summer vacation and travel season.  Our gift shop sales, which are made substantially to our restaurant 
guests,  historically  have  been  highest  in  our  second  quarter,  which  includes  the  Christmas  holiday  shopping 
season.    Historically,  interstate  tourist  traffic  and  the  propensity  to  dine  out  have  been  much  higher  during  the 
summer months, thereby generally contributing to higher profits (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3)quarter.  We also generally 
open additional new stores throughout the year.  Therefore, the results of operations for any interim period cannot 
be considered indicative of the operating results for an entire year. 

WORKING CAPITAL 

In the restaurant industry, substantially all sales  are either for cash or third-party credit card.   Therefore, like 
many  restaurant  companies,  we  are  able  to,  and  often  do  operate  with  negative  working  capital.    Restaurant 
inventories purchased through our principal food distributor are on terms of net zero days, while  other restaurant 
inventories purchased locally generally are financed through trade credit at terms of 30 days or less.  Because of 
our gift shop, which has a lower product turnover than the restaurant, we carry larger inventories than many other 
companies in the restaurant industry.  Retail inventories are generally financed through trade credit at terms of 60 
days  or  less.    These  various  trade  terms  are  aided  by  rapid  product  turnover  of  the  restaurant  inventory.  
Employees generally are paid on weekly or semi-monthly schedules in arrears of hours worked except for bonuses 
that are paid either quarterly or annually in arrears.  Many other operating expenses have normal trade terms and 
certain expenses, such as certain taxes and some benefits, are deferred for longer periods of time.   

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS 

Investing in our securities involves a degree of risk.  Persons buying our securities should carefully consider 
the  risks  described  below  and  the  other  information  contained  in  this  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K  and  other 
filings  that  we  make  from  time  to  time  with  the  SEC,  including  our  consolidated  financial  statements  and 
accompanying  notes.  If any of the following risks actually occurs, our business, financial condition, results of 
operations  or  cash  flows  could  be  materially  adversely  affected.  In  any  such  case,  the  trading  price  of  our 
securities could decline and you could lose all or part of your investment.   

General economic, business and societal conditions as well as those specific to the restaurant or retail 
industries that are largely out of our control may adversely affect our business, financial condition and 
results of operations. 

Our business results depend on a number of industry-specific and general economic factors, many of which 
are  beyond  our  control.    These  factors  include  consumer  income,  interest  rates,  inflation,  consumer  credit 
availability, consumer debt levels, tax rates and policy, unemployment trends and other matters that influence 
consumer  confidence  and  spending.  The  full-service  dining  sector  of  the  restaurant  industry  and  the  retail 
industry  are  affected  by  changes  in  national,  regional  and  local  economic  conditions,  seasonal  fluctuation  of 
sales volumes, consumer preferences, including changes in consumer tastes and dietary habits and the level of 
consumer acceptance of our restaurant concept and retail merchandise, and consumer spending patterns.   

Discretionary  consumer  spending,  which  is  critical  to  our  success,  is  influenced  by  general  economic 
conditions and the availability of discretionary income.  Global economic factors and a weak economic recovery 
have (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)posable income.  A 
deterioration  in  the  economy  or  other  economic  conditions  affecting  disposable  consumer  income,  such  as 
unemployment  levels,  reduced  home  values,  investment  losses,  inflation,  business  conditions,  fuel  and  other 
energy costs, consumer debt levels, lack of available credit, consumer confidence, interest rates, tax rates and 
changes in tax laws, may adversely affect our business by reducing overall consumer spending or by causing 
customers  to  reduce  the  frequency  with  which  they  shop  and  dine  out  or  to  shift  their  spending  to  our 
competitors or to products sold by us that are less profitable than other product choices, all of which could result 
in  lower  revenues,  decreases  in  inventory  turnover,  greater  markdowns  on  inventory,  and  a  reduction  in 
profitability due to lower margins.    

 11

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In  addition,  many  of  the  factors  discussed  above,  along  with  the  current  economic  environment  and  the 
related impact on available credit, may affect us and our suppliers and other business partners, landlords, and 
customers  in  an  adverse  manner,  including,  but  not  limited  to,  reducing  access  to  liquid  funds  or  credit 
(including  through  the  loss  of  one  or  more  financial  institutions  that  are  a  part  of  our  revolving  credit  facility), 
increasing the cost of credit, limiting our ability to manage interest rate risk, increasing the risk of bankruptcy of 
our suppliers, landlords or counterparties to or other financial institutions involved in our  revolving credit facility 
and  our  derivative  and  other  contracts,  increasing  the  cost  of  goods  to  us,  and  other  adverse  consequences 
which we are unable to fully anticipate. 

We  also  cannot  predict  the  effects  of  actual  or  threatened  armed  conflicts  or  terrorist  attacks,  efforts  to 
combat  terrorism,  military  action  against  any  foreign  state  or  group  located  in  a  foreign  state  or  heightened 
security requirements on the economy or consumer confidence in the United States.  Any of these events could 
also  affect  consumer  sentiment  and  confidence  that  in  turn  affect  consumer  spending  patterns  or  result  in 
increased costs for us due to security measures.  

Unfavorable changes in the factors described above or in other business and economic conditions affecting 
our customers could increase our costs, reduce traffic in some or all of our locations or impose practical limits 
on  pricing,  any  of  which  could  lower  our  profit  margins  and  have  a  material  adverse  effect  on  our  financial 
condition and results of operations.   

There can be no assurance that the economic conditions that have adversely  affected the restaurant and 
retail industries, and the capital, credit and real estate markets generally or us in  particular will remain static in 
2017, or thereafter, in which case we could experience declines in revenues and profits, and could face capital 
and liquidity constraints or other business challenges.  

We  face  intense  competition,  and  if  we  are  unable  to  continue  to  compete  effectively,  our  business, 
financial condition and results of operations would be adversely affected. 

The  restaurant  and  retail  industries  are  intensely  competitive,  and  we  face  many  well-established 
competitors.    We  compete  within  each  market  with  national  and  regional  restaurant  and  retail  chains  and 
locally-owned restaurants and retailers.  Competition from other regional or national restaurant and retail chains 
typically represents the more important competitive influence, principally because of their significant marketing 
and  financial  resources.    We  also  face  competition  as  a  result  of  the  convergence  of  grocery,  deli,  retail  and 
restaurant services, particularly in the supermarket industry.  Moreover, our competitors can harm our business 
even  if  they  are  not  successful  in  their  own  operations  by  taking  away  customers  or  employees  through 
aggressive and costly advertising, promotions or hiring practices.  We compete primarily on the quality, variety 
and perceived value of menu and retail items. The number and location of  stores, the growth of e-commerce, 
type of concept, quality and efficiency of service, attractiveness of facilities and effectiveness of advertising and 
marketing programs also are important factors. We anticipate that intense competition will continue with respect 
to all of these factors.  We also compete with other restaurant chains and other retail businesses for quality site 
locations, management and hourly employees, and competitive pressures could affect both the availability and 
cost of these important resources.  If we are unable to continue to compete effectively, our business, financial 
condition and results of operations would be adversely affected. 

 12

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The price and availability of food, ingredients, retail merchandise and utilities used by our stores could 
adversely affect our revenues and results of operations. 

We are subject to the general risks of inflation,  and  our operating profit margins and results of operations 
depend significantly on our ability to anticipate and react to changes in the price, quality and availability of food 
and  other  commodities,  ingredients,  retail  merchandise,  utilities  and  other  related  costs  over  which  we  have 
limited control.  Fluctuations in economic conditions, weather, demand and other factors affect the availability, 
quality  and  cost  of  the  ingredients  and  products  that  we  buy.    Some  climatologists  predict  that  the  long-term 
effects of climate change may result in more severe, volatile weather, which could result in greater volatility in 
product  supply  and  price.    Furthermore,  many  of  the  products  that  we  use  and  their  costs  are  interrelated.  
Changes in global demand for corn, wheat and dairy products could cause volatility in the feed costs for poultry 
and livestock. The effect of, introduction of, or changes to tariffs or exchange rates on imported retail products 
or  food  products  could  increase  our  costs  and  possibly  affect  the  supply  of  those  products.    In  addition,  food 
safety  concerns,  widespread  outbreaks  of  livestock  and  poultry  diseases,  such  as,  among  other  things,  the 
Avian Flu, and product recalls, all of which are out of our control, and, in many instances, unpredictable, could 
also increase our costs and possibly affect the supply of livestock and poultry products.  Our operating margins 
are  also  affected,  whether  as  a  result  of  general  inflation  or  otherwise,  by  fluctuations  in  the  price  of  utilities 
such as natural gas and electricity, on which our locations depend for much of their energy supply.  Our inability 
to  anticipate  and  respond  effectively  to  one  or  more  adverse  changes  in  any  of  these  factors  could  have  a 
significant  adverse  effect  on  our  results  of  operations.    In  addition,  because  we  provide  a  moderately-priced 
product, we may not seek to or be able to pass along price increases to our customers sufficient to completely 
offset cost increases. 

Our plans depend significantly on our strategic priorities and business initiatives designed to enhance 
our  menu  and  retail  offerings,  support  our  brand,  improve  operating  margins  and  improve  the 
efficiencies  and  effectiveness  of  our  operations.    Failure  to  achieve  or  sustain  these  plans  could 
adversely affect our results of operations. 

We  have  had,  and  expect  to  continue  to  have,  priorities  and  initiatives  in  various  stages  of  testing, 
evaluation and implementation, upon which we expect to rely to improve our results of operations and financial 
condition.    These  priorities  and  initiatives  include,  but  are  not  limited  to,  tiered  menu  pricing,  evolving  our 
marketing  messaging  to  support  the  brand,  improving  the  quality  and  breadth  of  retail  assortments,  re-
engineering  store  processes  to  reduce  costs  and  improve  store  margins,  applying  technology  to  improve  the 
employee  and guest experience,  expanding  our store footprint, focusing on our  new fast casual concept, and 
extending  the  brand  beyond  our  existing  stores,  including  initiatives  to  sell  licensed  products  through  grocery 
and other retail channels and through evaluating strategic transactions such as joint ventures and acquisitions. 
It  is  possible  that  our  focus  on  these  priorities  and  initiatives  and  constantly  changing  consumer  preferences 
could cause unintended changes to our current results of operations. Additionally, many of these initiatives are 
inherently risky and uncertain in their application to our business in general, even when tested successfully on a 
more limited scale.   It  is possible that successful testing can result  partially from resources and  attention  that 
cannot be duplicated in broader  implementation. Testing and general  implementation  also can be  affected by 
other  risk  factors  described  herein  that  reduce  the  results  expected.  Successful  system-wide  implementation 
across  hundreds  of  stores  and  involving  tens  of  thousands  of  employees  relies  on  consistency  of  training, 
stability  of  workforce,  ease  of  execution  and  the  absence  of  offsetting  factors  that  can  adversely  influence 
results.  Failure  to  achieve  successful  implementation  of  our  initiatives  could  adversely  affect  our  results  of 
operations. 

We are dependent upon attracting and retaining qualified employees while also controlling labor costs. 

Our  performance  is  dependent  on  attracting  and  retaining  a  large  and  growing  number  of  qualified  store 
employees.  Availability of staff varies widely from location to location.  Many staff members are in entry-level or 
part-time positions, typically with high rates of turnover.  Even though recent trends in employee turnover have 
been  favorable,  if  store  management  and  staff  turnover  were  to  increase,  we  could  suffer  higher  direct  costs 
associated  with  recruiting,  training  and  retaining  replacement  personnel.    Management  turnover  as  well  as 
general  shortages  in  the  labor  pool  can  cause  our  stores  to  be  operated  with  reduced  staff,  which  negatively 
affects our ability to provide appropriate service levels to our customers.  Competition for qualified employees 
exerts upward pressure on wages paid to attract such personnel, resulting in higher labor costs, together with 
greater recruiting and training expenses. 

 13

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our  ability  to  meet  our  labor  needs  while  controlling  our  costs  is  subject  to  external  factors  such  as 
unemployment  levels,  minimum  wage  legislation,  health  care  legislation,  payroll  taxes  and  changing 
demographics.    Many  of  our  employees  are  hourly  workers  whose  wages  are  affected  by  increases  in  the 
federal or state minimum wage or changes to tip credits.  Tip credits are the amounts an employer is permitted 
to assume an employee receives in tips when (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:3)
wage compliance purposes.  Increases in minimum wage levels and changes to the tip credit have been made 
and continue to be proposed at both federal and state levels.  As minimum wage rates increase, we may need 
to increase not only the wages of our minimum wage employees but also the wages paid to employees at wage 
rates  that  are  above  minimum  wage.    If  competitive  pressures  or  other  factors  prevent  us  from  offsetting 
increased labor costs by increases in prices, our profitability may decline.  

Our reliance on certain significant vendors, particularly for foreign-sourced retail products, subjects us 
to  numerous  risks,  including  possible  interruptions  in  supply,  which  could  adversely  affect  our 
business. 

Our  ability  to  maintain  consistent  quality  throughout  our  operations  depends  in  part  upon  our  ability  to 
acquire  specified  food  and  retail  products  and  supplies  in  sufficient  quantities.    Partly  because  of  our  size, 
finding  qualified  vendors  and  accessing  food,  retail  products,  supplies  and  certain  outsourced  services  in  a 
timely  and  efficient  manner  is  a  significant  challenge  that  typically  is  more  difficult  with  respect  to  goods  or 
services sourced outside the United  States.   In some cases,  we may  have only one supplier for a product or 
service.    Our  dependence  on  single-source  suppliers  subjects  us  to  the  possible  risks  of  shortages, 
interruptions  and  price  fluctuations,  and  possible  litigation  when  we  change  vendors  because  of  performance 
issues.  Global  economic  factors  and  the  weak  economic  recovery  continue  to  put  significant  pressure  on 
suppliers, with some suppliers facing financial distress and others attempting to rebuild profitability, all of which 
tends  to  make  the  supply  environment  more  expensive.    If  any  of  these  vendors  is  unable  to  fulfill  its 
obligations,  or  if  we  are  unable  to  find  replacement  suppliers  in  the  event  of  a  supply  disruption,  we  could 
encounter  supply  shortages  and/or  incur  higher  costs  to  secure  adequate  supplies,  either  of  which  could 
materially harm our business. 

Additionally,  we  use  a  number  of  products  that  are  or  may  be  manufactured  in  a  number  of  foreign 
countries.  In addition to the risk presented by the possible long lead times to source these products, our results 
of operations may be materially affected by risks such as: 

fluctuating currency exchange rates;  
foreign government regulations; 
foreign currency exchange control regulations;  
import/export restrictions and product testing regulations; 
foreign political and economic instability;  

(cid:120) 
(cid:120) 
(cid:120) 
(cid:120) 
(cid:120) 
(cid:120)  disruptions due to labor stoppages, strikes or slowdowns, or other disruptions, involving our vendors or the 

(cid:120) 

transportation and handling industries; and  
tariffs,  trade  barriers  and  other  trade  restrictions  by  the  U.S.  government  on  products  or  components 
shipped from foreign sources. 

Possible shortages or interruptions in the supply of food items, retail merchandise and other supplies to our 
stores caused by inclement weather, natural disasters such as droughts, floods and earthquakes, the inability of 
our vendors to obtain credit in a tightened credit market or other conditions beyond our control could adversely 
affect  the  availability,  quality  and  cost  of  the  items  we  buy  and  the  operations  of  our  stores.    Our  inability  to 
effectively  manage  supply  chain  risk  could  increase  our  costs  and  limit  the  availability  of  products  that  are 
critical to our store operations.  If we temporarily close a store or remove popular items from a store(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:88) or 
retail product assortment, that store may experience a significant reduction in revenue during the time affected 
by the shortage or thereafter as a result of our customers changing their dining and shopping habits.  

 14

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our  risks  are  heightened  because  of  our  single  retail  distribution  facility  and  our  potential  inability  or 
failure  to  execute  on  a  comprehensive  business  continuity  plan  following  a  major  disaster  at  or  near 
our corporate facility could adversely affect our business. 

The majority of our retail inventory is shipped into, stored at and shipped out of a single warehouse located 
in Lebanon, Tennessee.  All of the decorative fixtures used in our stores are shipped into, stored at and shipped 
out of a separate warehouse that is also located in Lebanon, Tennessee.  A natural disaster affecting either of 
these  warehouses  could  materially  adversely  affect  our  business.    Additionally,  our  corporate  systems  and 
processes  and  support  for  our  restaurant  and  retail  operations  are  centralized  on  one  campus  in  Tennessee. 
We have disaster recovery procedures and business continuity plans in place to address most events and back 
up and offsite locations for recovery of electronic and other forms of data and information.  However, if we are 
unable  to  implement  our  disaster  recovery  and  business  continuity  plans,  we  may  experience  delays  in 
recovery  of  data,  failure  to  support  field  operations,  tardiness  in  required  reporting  and  compliance  and  the 
inability to perform vital corporate functions which could adversely affect our business. 

Our ability to manage our retail inventory levels and changes in merchandise mix may adversely affect 
our business. 

The  long  lead  times  required  for  a  substantial  portion  of  our  retail  merchandise  and  the  risk  of  product 
damages or non-compliance with required specifications could affect the amount of inventory we have available 
for  sale.    Additionally,  our  success  depends  on  our  ability  to  anticipate  and  respond  in  a  timely  manner  to 
changing consumer demand and preferences for merchandise. If  we misjudge the market, we may overstock 
unpopular  products  and  be  forced  to  take  significant  markdowns,  which  could  reduce  our  gross  margin.  
Conversely, if we underestimate demand for our merchandise we may experience inventory shortages resulting 
in  lost  revenues.    Any  of  these  factors  could  have  an  adverse  effect  on  our  results  of  operations,  cash  flows 
from operations and our financial condition.  

A  material  disruption  in  our  information  technology,  network  infrastructure  and  telecommunication 
systems could adversely affect our business and results of operations.  

We rely extensively on our information technology across our operations, including, but not limited to, point 
of sales processing, supply chain management, retail merchandise allocation and distribution, labor productivity 
and expense management   Our business depends significantly on the reliability and capacity of our information 
technology systems to process these transactions, summarize results, manage and report on our business and 
our  supply  chain.    Our  information  technology  systems  are  subject  to  damage  or  interruption  from  power 
outages, computer, network, cable system, Internet and telecommunications failures, computer viruses, security 
breaches,  catastrophic  events  such  as  fires,  floods,  earthquakes,  tornadoes,  hurricanes,  acts  of  war  or 
terrorism,  and  usage  errors  by  our  employees.  If  our  information  technology  and  telecommunication  systems 
are damaged or cease to function properly, we may have to make a significant investment to repair or replace 
them, and we could suffer loss of critical data and interruptions or delays in our operations in the interim.  Any 
material  interruption  in  our  information  technology  and  telecommunication  systems  could  adversely  affect  our 
business or results of operations.  

Our  capital  structure  contains  substantial  indebtedness,  which  may  decrease  our  flexibility,  increase 
our borrowing costs and adversely affect our liquidity.  In addition, we cannot provide any guaranty of 
future  cash  dividend  payments  or  that  we  will  be  able  to  actively  repurchase  our  common  stock 
pursuant to a share repurchase program. 

Our consolidated indebtedness and our leverage ratio may have the effect, among other things, of reducing 
our flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions and increasing borrowing costs.  There 
are various financial covenants and other restrictions in our revolving credit facility. If we fail to comply with any 
of  these  requirements,  the  related  indebtedness  (and  other  unrelated  indebtedness)  could  become  due  and 
payable prior to its stated maturity.  A default under our credit agreement may also significantly affect our ability 
(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:69)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:82)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)
the revolving credit facility is dependent upon our compliance with these covenants and restrictions. 

 15

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Our  ability  to  make  scheduled  interest  payments  or  to  refinance  our  obligations  with  respect  to 
indebtedness  will  depend  on  our  operating  and  financial  performance,  which,  in  turn,  is  subject  to  prevailing 
economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors beyond our control.  Our inability to refinance 
our indebtedness when necessary or to do so upon attractive terms would materially and adversely affect our 
liquidity and results of operations. 

In  recent  years,  we  have  increased  the  quarterly  cash  dividends  on  our  common  stock  and,  in  2015  and 
2016, we also declared special dividends on our common stock.  Any determination to pay cash dividends on 
our  common  stock  in  the  future  will  be  based  primarily  upon  our  financial  condition,  results  of  operations, 
business  requirements  and  our  Board  of  Directors(cid:182)  conclusion  that  the  declaration  of  cash  dividends  is  in  the 
best interest of our shareholders and is in compliance with all laws and agreements applicable to the  payment 
of dividends.  Furthermore, there can be no assurance that we will be able to actively repurchase our common 
stock and we may discontinue plans to repurchase common stock at any time.  

Our  advertising  is  heavily  dependent  on  billboards,  which  are  highly  regulated;  and  our  evolving 
marketing strategy involves increased advertising and marketing costs that could adversely affect our 
results of operations.  

Historically,  we  have relied upon  billboards as our principal method of advertising.  A number of states in 
which  we  operate  restrict  highway  signage  and  billboards.    Because  many  of  our  stores  are  located  on  the 
interstate  highway  system,  our  business  is  highly  related  to  highway  travel.  Thus,  signage  or  billboard 
restrictions  or  loss  of  existing  signage  or  billboards  could  adversely  affect  our  visibility  and  ability  to  attract 
customers. 

Additionally, as we continue to evolve our marketing strategy, we are increasingly utilizing more traditional 
and higher cost  methods of advertising, such as  national cable  television,  radio  and online  and digital media.  
These types of advertising, their effects upon our revenues and, in turn, our profits, are uncertain.  Additionally, 
if our competitors increased their spending on advertising and promotions, we could be forced to substantially 
increase our advertising, media or marketing expenses.  If we did so or if our current advertising and promotion 
programs become less effective, we could experience a material adverse effect on our results of operations.   

A privacy breach could adversely affect our business.  

The protection of customer, employee and company data is critical to us.  We are subject to laws relating to 
information  security,  privacy,  cashless  payments,  consumer  credit,  and  fraud.    Additionally,  an  increasing 
number of government and industry groups have established laws and standards for the protection of personal 
and health information. The regulatory environment surrounding information security and privacy is increasingly 
demanding, with the frequent imposition of new and constantly changing requirements. Compliance with these 
requirements  may  result  in  cost  increases  due  to  necessary  system  changes  and  the  development  of  new 
administrative  processes.    In  addition,  customers  and  employees  have  a  high  expectation  that  we  will 
adequately protect their personal information.  For example, in connection with credit and debit card sales, we 
transmit  confidential  card  information.  Third  parties  may  have  the  technology  or  know-how  to  breach  the 
security of this customer information, and our security measures and those of our technology vendors may not 
effectively prohibit others from obtaining improper access to this information. If we fail to comply with the laws 
and regulations regarding privacy and security or experience a security breach, we could be exposed to risks of 
data loss, fines, a loss of the ability to process credit and debit card payments, litigation and serious disruption 
of our operations.  Additionally, any resulting negative publicity could significantly harm our reputation.  

 16

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If  we  fail  to  execute  our  business  strategy,  which  includes  our  ability  to  find  new  store  locations  and 
open new stores that are profitable, our business could suffer. 

One of the means of achieving our growth objectives  is opening and operating  new and profitable stores. 
This strategy involves numerous risks, and we may not be able to open all of our planned new stores and the 
new stores that we open may not be profitable or as profitable as our existing stores.   

A  significant  risk  in  executing  our  business  strategy  is  locating,  securing  and  profitably  operating  an 
adequate supply of suitable new store sites.  Competition for suitable store sites and operating personnel in our 
target markets is intense, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to find sufficient suitable locations, 
or  negotiate  suitable  purchase  or  lease  terms,  for  our  planned  expansion  in  any  future  period.    Recently,  our 
target  markets  have  been  expanded  to  include  markets  that  are  outside  of  our  existing  core  markets  and  in 
states where we currently do not have existing operations, which increases the risk of executing our business 
strategy.  The recession and current economic conditions have reduced commercial development activity and 
limited the availability of attractive sites for new stores.   New stores typically experience an adjustment period 
before  sales  levels  and  operating  margins  normalize,  and  even  sales  at  successful  newly-opened  stores 
generally do not make a significant contribution to profitability in their initial months of operation.  Our ability to 
open and operate new stores successfully also depends on numerous other factors, some of which are beyond 
our  control,  including,  among  other  items  discussed  in  other  risk  factors,  the  following:    our  ability  to  control 
construction  and  development  costs  of  new  stores;  our  ability  to  manage  the  local,  state  or  other  regulatory 
approvals  and  permits,  zoning  and  licensing  processes  in  a  timely  manner;  our  ability  to  appropriately  train 
employees  and  staff  the  stores;  consumer  acceptance  of  our  stores  in  new  markets;  our  ability  to  manage 
construction  delays  related  to  the  opening  of  a  new  store.    Delays  or  failures  in  opening  new  stores,  or 
achieving  lower than  expected sales  in new stores, or drawing a greater than  expected proportion  of sales in 
new  stores  from  existing  stores,  could  materially  adversely  affect  our  business  strategy  and  could  have  an 
adverse effect on our business and results of operations.   

Our  business  is  somewhat  seasonal  and  also  can  be  affected  by  extreme  weather  conditions  and 
natural disasters. 

Historically,  our  highest  sales  and  profits  have  occurred  during  the  second  and  fourth  quarters,  which 
include  the  Christmas  holiday  shopping  season  and  the  summer  vacation  and  travel  season.    Retail  sales 
historically  have  been  seasonally  higher  between  Thanksgiving  and  Christmas.  Therefore,  the  results  of 
operations  for  any  quarter  or  period  of  less  than  one  year  cannot  be  considered  indicative  of  the  operating 
results for an entire year.  

Additionally, extreme weather conditions in the areas where our stores are located can adversely affect our 
business. For example, frequent or unusually heavy snowfall, ice storms, rain storms, floods, droughts or other 
extreme  weather  conditions  over  a  prolonged  period  could  make  it  difficult  for  our  customers  to  travel  to  our 
stores  and  can  disrupt  deliveries  of  food  and  supplies  to  our  stores  and  thereby  reduce  our  sales  and 
profitability.  Our  business  is  also  susceptible  to  unseasonable  weather  conditions.  For  example,  extended 
periods  of  unseasonably  warm  temperatures  during  the  winter  season  or  cool  weather  during  the  summer 
season  could  render  a  portion  of  our  retail  inventory  incompatible  with  those  unseasonable  conditions.  
Reduced  sales  from  extreme  or  prolonged  unseasonable  weather  conditions  could  adversely  affect  our 
business.    These  risks  may  be  exacerbated  in  the  future  as  some  climatologists  predict  that  the  long-term 
effects of climate change may result in more severe, volatile weather. 

In addition, natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes, or a combination of these or 
other factors, could severely damage or destroy one or more of our stores, warehouses or suppliers located in 
the affected areas, thereby disrupting our business operations for a more extended period of time.  

 17

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
We  outsource  certain  business  processes  to  third-party  vendors  that  subject  us  to  risks,  including 
disruptions in business  and increased  costs; our use of third party technologies has increased and if 
we are unable to maintain our rights to these technologies our business may be harmed. 

Some  of  our  business  processes  are  currently  outsourced  to  third  parties.    Such  processes  include 
distribution of food and retail products to our store locations, credit and debit card authorization and processing, 
gift  card  tracking  and  authorization,  employee  payroll  card  services,  (cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)
insurance  claims  processing,  wage  and  related  tax  credit  documentation  and  approval,  guest  satisfaction 
survey  programs,  employee  engagement  surveys  and  externally  hosted  business  software  applications.  We 
cannot ensure that all providers of outsourced services are observing proper internal control practices, such as 
redundant processing facilities, and there are no guarantees that failures will not occur.  Failure of third parties 
to provide adequate services could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

We  rely  on  certain  technology  licensed  from  third  parties  and  may  be  required  to  license  additional 
technology  in  the  future  for  use  in  managing  our  Internet  sites  and  providing  services  to  our  guests  and 
employees.  These third-party technology licenses may not continue to be available to us on acceptable terms 
or at all.  The inability to enter into and maintain these technology licenses could adversely affect our business. 

Health concerns, government regulation relating to the consumption of food products and widespread 
infectious  diseases  could  affect  consumer  preferences  and  could  negatively  affect  our  results  of 
operations. 

The  sale  of  food  and  prepared  food  products  for  human  consumption  involves  the  risk  of  injury  to  our 
customers.    Such  injuries  may  result  from  tampering  by  unauthorized  third  parties,  product  contamination  or 
spoilage, including the presence of foreign objects, substances, chemicals, other agents, or residues introduced 
during the growing, storage, handling and transportation phases.  Additionally,  many of the food items on our 
menu contain beef and chicken. The preferences of our customers toward beef and chicken could be affected 
by health concerns about the consumption of beef or chicken or health concerns and publicity concerning food 
quality,  illness  and  injury  generally.    In  recent  years  there  has  been  publicity  concerning  E.  coli  bacteria, 
(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:82)(cid:87)-and-(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)salmonella, the bird/Avian Flu, peanut and other food 
allergens, and other public health concerns affecting  the food supply,  including  beef, chicken, pork, dairy  and 
eggs.    In  addition,  if  a  regional  or  global  health  pandemic  occurs,  depending  upon  its  location,  duration  and 
severity,  our  business  could  be  severely  affected.    In  the  event  a  health  pandemic  occurs,  customers  might 
avoid public places, and local, regional or national governments might limit or ban public gatherings to halt or 
delay the spread of disease.  A regional or global health pandemic might also adversely affect our business by 
disrupting  or  delaying  production  and  delivery  of  materials  and  products  in  our  supply  chain  and  by  causing 
staffing shortages in our stores. In addition, government regulations or the likelihood of government regulation 
could  increase  the  costs  of  obtaining  or  preparing  food  products.    A  decrease  in  guest  traffic  to  our  stores,  a 
change in our mix of products sold or an increase in costs as a result of these health concerns either in general 
or  specific  to  our  operations,  could  result  in  a  decrease  in  sales  or  higher  costs  to  our  stores  that  would 
materially harm our business.   

Unfavorable  publicity  could  harm  our  business.  In  addition,  our  failure  to  recognize,  respond  to  and 
effectively manage the impact of social media could materially impact our business. 

Multi-unit  businesses  such  as  ours  can  be  adversely  affected  by  publicity  resulting  from  complaints  or 
litigation  alleging  poor  food  quality,  poor  service,  food-borne  illness,  product  defects,  personal  injury,  adverse 
health effects (including obesity) or other concerns stemming from one or a limited number of our stores.  Even 
when the allegations or complaints are not valid, unfavorable publicity relating to a limited number of our stores, 
or  only  to  a  single  store,  could  adversely  affect  public  perception  of  the  entire  brand.    Additionally,  negative 
publicity from online social network postings may also result from actual or alleged incidents taking place in our 
stores.    Adverse  publicity  and  its  effect  on  overall  consumer  perceptions  of  food  safety  or  customer  service 
could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 

 18

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Individual store locations are affected by local conditions that could change and adversely affect the 
carrying value of those locations. 

The  success  of  our  business  depends  on  the  success  of  individual  locations,  which  in  turn  depends  on 
stability of or improvements in operating conditions at and around those locations.  Our revenues and expenses 
can be affected significantly by the number and timing of the opening of new stores and the closing, relocating 
and remodeling of existing stores. We incur substantial pre-opening expenses each time we open a new store 
and  other  expenses  when  we  close,  relocate  or  remodel  existing  stores.  The  expenses  of  opening,  closing, 
relocating or remodeling any of our stores may be higher than anticipated.  An increase in such expenses could 
have  an  adverse  effect  on  our  results  of  operations.      Also,  as  demographic  and  economic  patterns  (e.g., 
highway or roadway traffic patterns, concentrations of general retail or hotel activity, local population densities 
or  increased  competition)  change,  current  locations  may  not  continue  to  be  attractive  or  profitable.    Possible 
declines in neighborhoods where our stores are located or adverse economic conditions in areas surrounding 
those  neighborhoods  could  result  in  reduced  revenues  in  those  locations.    The occurrence  of  one  or more  of 
these  events  could  have  a  material  adverse  effect  on  our  revenues  and  results  of  operations  as  well  as  the 
carrying value of our individual locations. 

Our  expansion  into  new  geographic  markets  may  present  increased  risks  due  to  our  relative 
unfamiliarity with these markets. 

Some of our new store locations may be located in areas where we have lower market presence and, as a 
result, less or no meaningful business experience than in our traditional, existing markets. Those new markets 
may  have  different  competitive  conditions,  consumer  tastes  and  discretionary  spending  patterns  than  our 
traditional, existing markets, which may cause our new store locations to be less successful than restaurants in 
our  existing  markets.    An  additional  risk  of  expanding  into  new  markets  is  the  potential  for  lower  or  lacking 
market  awareness  of  our  brand  in  those  areas.    Stores  opened  in  new  markets  may  open  at  lower  average 
weekly  sales  volumes  than  stores  opened  in  existing  markets  and  may  have  higher  store-level  operating 
expense  ratios  than  in  existing  markets.    Sales  at  stores  opened  in  new  markets  may  take  longer  to  reach 
average unit volume and margins, if at all, thereby affecting our overall profitability. 

We  are  subject  to  a  number  of  risks  relating  to  federal,  state  and  local  regulation  of  our  business, 
including the areas of minimum wage increases, health care reform and environmental matters, and an 
insufficient or ineffective response to government regulation may increase our costs and decrease our 
profit margins. 

The restaurant industry is subject to extensive federal, state and local laws and regulations, including those 
relating to food safety, minimum wage and other labor issues (such as unionization), health care, menu labeling 
and building and zoning requirements and those relating to the preparation and sale of food  as well as certain 
retail  products.    The  development  and  operation  of  our  stores  depend  to  a  significant  extent  on  the  selection 
and  acquisition  of  suitable  sites,  which  are  subject  to  zoning,  land  use,  environmental,  traffic  and  other 
regulations  and  requirements.    We  are  also  subject  to  licensing  and  regulation  by  state  and  local  authorities 
relating to health, sanitation, safety and fire standards, federal and state laws governing our relationships with 
employees (including the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, 
the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 and 
applicable  requirements  concerning  minimum  wage,  overtime,  healthcare  coverage,  family  leave,  medical 
privacy, tip credits, working conditions, safety standards and immigration status), federal and state laws which 
prohibit  discrimination and  other  laws regulating the design  and operation  of facilities, such as the  Americans 
With  Disabilities  Act  of  1990.    In  addition,  we  are  subject  to  a  variety  of  federal,  state  and  local  laws  and 
regulations relating to the use, storage, discharge, emission and disposal of hazardous materials.  We also face 
risks from new and changing laws and regulations relating to gift cards, nutritional content, nutritional labeling, 
product safety and menu labeling. Compliance with these laws and regulations can be costly and can increase 
our exposure to litigation or governmental investigations or proceedings.  

Increases  in  state  or  federal  minimum  wage  rates,  including  recent  proposals  to  increase  state  or  federal 
minimum wage rates and index future increases to inflation, or other changes in these laws could increase our 
labor costs.  Our ability to respond to minimum wage increases by increasing menu prices will depend on the 
responses  of  our  competitors  and  customers.    Our  distributors  and  suppliers  also  may  be  affected  by  higher 
minimum  wage  and  benefit  standards  and  tracking  costs,  which  could  result  in  higher  costs  for  goods  and 
services supplied to us. 

 19

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The  Patient  Protection  and  Affordable  Care  Act  and  the  Health  Care  and  Education  Affordability 
Reconciliation  Act  of  2010,  was  enacted  in  2010  and,  in  June  2012,  the  U.S.  Supreme  Court  upheld  the 
constitutionality of the law  except for certain parts related  to the  expansion of Medicaid.  Although  we cannot 
predict with certainty the financial and operational  impacts the law  will have on us, such changes could affect 
our  business,  financial  condition  and  results  of  operations.    The  law  requires  restaurant  companies  such  as 
ours  to  disclose  calorie  information  on  their  menus.    We  do  not  expect  to  incur  any  material  costs  from 
compliance with this provision of the law, but cannot anticipate the changes in guest behavior that could result 
from  the  implementation  of  this  provision,  which  could  have  an  adverse  effect  on  our  sales  or  results  of 
operations.  

There  also  has  been  increasing  focus  by  U.S.  and  foreign  governmental  authorities  on  environmental 
matters, such as climate change, the reduction of greenhouse gases and water consumption.   This increased 
focus may  lead  to  new  initiatives  directed  at  regulating  an  as  yet  unspecified  array  of  environmental  matters, 
(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:74)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:83)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)
carbon  emissions.    Legislative,  regulatory  or  other  efforts  to  combat  climate  change  or  other  environmental 
concerns could result in future increases in taxes, the  cost of raw materials, transportation and utilities, which 
could decrease our operating profits and necessitate future investments in facilities and equipment.  

The impact of current laws and regulations, the effect of future changes in laws or regulations that impose 
additional  requirements  and  the  consequences  of  litigation  relating  to  current  or  future  laws  and  regulations 
could increase our compliance and other costs of doing business and therefore have an adverse effect on our 
results  of  operations.    Failure  to  comply  with  the  laws  and  regulatory  requirements  of federal,  state  and  local 
authorities  could  result  in,  among  other  things,  revocation  of  required  licenses,  administrative  enforcement 
actions, fines and civil and criminal liability.  Compliance with these laws and regulations can be costly and can 
increase  our  exposure  to  litigation  or  governmental  investigations  or  proceedings.    Also,  the  failure  to  obtain 
and maintain required licenses, permits and approvals could adversely affect our operating results.  Typically, 
licenses must be renewed annually and may be revoked, suspended or denied renewal for cause at any time if 
governmental  authorities  determine  that  our  conduct  violates  applicable  regulations,  which  could  adversely 
affect our business and results of operations.  

Failure to maximize or to successfully assert our intellectual property rights could adversely affect our 
business and results of operations. 

We rely on trademark, trade secret and copyright laws to protect our intellectual property rights.  We cannot 
guarantee  that  these  intellectual  property  rights  will  be  maximized  or  that  they  can  be  successfully  asserted.  
There is a risk that we will not be able to obtain and perfect our own, or, where appropriate, license intellectual 
property rights necessary to support new product introductions or other  brand extensions.  We cannot be sure 
that  these  rights,  if  obtained,  will  not  be  invalidated,  circumvented  or  challenged  in  the  future.    Our  failure  to 
perfect or successfully assert our intellectual property rights could make us less competitive and could have an 
adverse effect on our business and results of operations. 

Litigation may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. 

Our business is subject to the risk of litigation by employees, guests, suppliers, shareholders, governmental 
agencies,  competitors  or  others  through  private  actions,  class  actions,  administrative  proceedings,  regulatory 
actions  or  other  litigation.    These  actions  and  proceedings  may  involve  allegations  of  illegal,  unfair  or 
inconsistent  employment  practices,  including  wage  and  hour  violations  and  employment  discrimination;  guest 
discrimination;  food  safety  issues,  including  poor  food  quality,  food-borne  illness,  food  tampering,  food 
contamination,  and  adverse  health  effects  from  consumption  of  various  food  products  or  high-calorie  foods 
(including obesity); other personal injury; trademark  and patent infringement; violation of the federal securities 
laws;  or  other  concerns.  The  outcome  of  litigation,  particularly  class  action  lawsuits  and  regulatory  actions,  is 
difficult  to  assess  or  quantify.    Plaintiffs  in  these  types  of  lawsuits  may  seek  recovery  of  very  large  or 
indeterminate amounts and the magnitude of the potential loss relating to such lawsuits may remain unknown 
for  substantial  periods  of  time.    The  cost  to  defend  future  litigation  may  be  significant.    There  may  also  be 
adverse  publicity  associated  with  litigation  that  could  decrease  guest  or  consumer  acceptance  of  our  brand, 
regardless  of  whether  the  allegations  are  valid  or  we  ultimately  are  found  liable.    Litigation  could  adversely 
impact  our  operations  and  our  ability  to  expand  our  brand  in  other  ways  as  well.    As  a  result,  litigation  may 
adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. 

 20

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The loss of key executives or difficulties in recruiting and retaining qualified personnel could jeopardize 
our future growth and success. 

We have assembled a senior management team which has substantial background and experience in  the 
restaurant and retail industries.  Our future growth and success depends substantially on the contributions and 
abilities  of  our  senior  management  and  other  key  personnel,  and  we  design  our  compensation  programs  to 
attract  and  retain  key  personnel  and  facilitate  our  ability  to  develop  effective  succession  plans.    If  we  fail  to 
attract or retain senior management or other key personnel,  our succession planning and operations could be 
materially  and  adversely  affected.    We  must  continue  to  recruit,  retain  and  motivate  management  and  other 
employees  sufficiently  to  maintain  our  current  business  and  support  our  projected  growth.  A  loss  of  key 
employees  or  a  significant  shortage  of  high  quality  store  employees  could  jeopardize  our  ability  to  meet  our 
business goals.   

Our  current  insurance  programs  may  expose  us  to  unexpected  costs,  which  could  have  a  material 
adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.   

Our  insurance  coverage  is  structured  to  include  deductibles,  self-insured  retentions,  limits  of  liability,  stop 
loss limits and similar provisions that we believe prudent based on our operations. However, there are types of 
losses we may incur against which we cannot be insured or which we believe are not economically reasonable 
to insure, such as losses due to acts of terrorism and some natural disasters, including floods.  If we incur such 
losses, our business could suffer.  In addition, we self-insure a significant portion of expected losses under our 
(cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:83)(cid:3) (cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:56)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)
actuarial  assumptions  and  management  estimates  underlying  our  reserves  for  these  losses,  including 
unexpected  increases  in medical and indemnity costs, could result  in materially  different amounts of expense 
than expected under these programs.  

Our  annual  and  quarterly  operating  results  may  fluctuate  significantly  and  could  fall  below  the 
expectations of investors and securities analysts due to a number of factors, some of which are beyond 
our control, resulting either in volatility or a decline in the price of our securities. 

Our business is not static (cid:177) it changes periodically as a result of many factors, including, among other items 

discussed in other risk factors, the following:  

(cid:120) 
(cid:120) 

(cid:120) 
(cid:120) 

increases and decreases in average weekly sales, restaurant and retail sales and restaurant profitability;  
the rate at which we open new stores, the timing of new store openings and the related high initial operating 
costs;  
changes in advertising and promotional activities and expansion into new markets; and  
impairment of long-lived assets and any loss on store closures.    

Our quarterly operating results and restaurant and retail sales may fluctuate as a result of any of these or 
other factors.  Accordingly, results for any one quarter are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected 
for  any  other  quarter  or  for  any  year,  and  restaurant  and  retail  sales  for  any  particular  future  period  may 
decrease.  In the future, operating results may fall below the expectations of securities analysts and investors.  
In such event, the price of our securities could fluctuate dramatically over time or could decrease generally. 

 21

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Failure of our internal control over financial reporting could adversely affect our business and financial 
results.  

Our  management  is  responsible  for  establishing  and  maintaining  effective  internal  control  over  financial 
reporting.  Internal control  over financial reporting is a  process to provide reasonable assurance regarding the 
reliability  of  financial  reporting  for  external  purposes  in  accordance  with  the  United  States  generally  accepted 
(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)GAAP(cid:180)(cid:12). Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting is not 
intended  to  provide  absolute  assurance  that  we  would  prevent  or  detect  a  misstatement  of  our  financial 
statements or fraud.  Any failure to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting could 
limit  our  ability  to  report  our  financial  results  accurately  and  timely  or  to  detect  and  prevent  fraud.    The 
identification of a material  weakness could indicate a lack of controls adequate  to generate accurate financial 
statements  that,  in  turn,  could  cause  a  loss  of  investor  confidence  and  decline  in  the  market  price  of  our 
common stock.  We cannot assure you that we will be able to timely remediate any material weaknesses that 
may be identified in future periods or maintain all of the controls necessary for continued compliance. Likewise, 
we  cannot  assure  you  that  we  will  be  able  to  retain  sufficient  skilled  finance  and  accounting  personnel, 
especially in light of the increased demand for such personnel among publicly traded companies. 

Our  reported  results  can  be  affected  adversely  and  unexpectedly  by  the  implementation  of  new,  or 
changes in the interpretation of existing, accounting principles or financial reporting requirements. 

Our  financial  reporting  complies  with  GAAP,  and  GAAP  is  subject  to  change  over  time.    If  new  rules  or 
interpretations  of  existing  rules  require  us  to  change  our  financial  reporting  (including  the  upcoming  lease 
accounting  changes  and  the  proposed  adoption  of  international  financial  reporting  standards  in  the  United 
States),  our  reported  results  of  operations  and  financial  condition  could  be  affected  substantially,  including 
requirements to restate historical financial reporting.  

Our business could be negatively affected as a result of actions of activist shareholders. 

The Lion Fund II, L.P., an affiliate of (cid:37)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:3)(cid:43)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:37)(cid:43)(cid:180)(cid:12), the owner of Steak N Shake and Western 
(cid:54)(cid:76)(cid:93)(cid:93)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:15) is currently the beneficial owner of approximately 19.7% of our outstanding common stock.  
In the past, BH and its affiliates have nominated candidates for election to our board of directors at our annual 
meetings of shareholders, resulting in proxy contests, and called publicly for special meetings of shareholders 
to consider other proposals.  While BH and its affiliates have not nominated director candidates for election  at 
our 2016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, the actions of BH and its affiliates or another activist shareholder in 
the future could adversely affect our business because: 

(cid:120) 

responding  to  public  proposals,  special  meeting  requests  and  other  actions  by  activist  shareholders  can 
disrupt  our  operations,  be  costly  and  time-consuming,  and  divert  the  attention  of  our  management  and 
employees; 

(cid:120)  perceived uncertainties as to our future direction may result in the loss of potential business opportunities, 

and may make it more difficult to attract and retain qualified personnel and business partners; and 

(cid:120)  pursuit  of  (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) agenda  may  adversely  affect  our  ability  to  effectively  implement  our 

business strategy and create additional value for our shareholders. 

Provisions in our charter, Tennessee law and our shareholder rights plan may discourage potential 
acquirers of the Company. 

Our  charter  documents  contain  provisions  that  may  have  the  effect  of  making  it  more  difficult  for  a  third 
party to acquire or attempt to acquire control of the Company.  In addition, we are subject to certain provisions 
of  Tennessee  law  that  limit,  in  some  cases,  our  ability  to  engage  in  certain  business  combinations  with 
significant shareholders.  In addition, we have adopted a shareholder rights plan, which provides, among other 
things, that when specified events occur, our shareholders will be entitled to purchase from us shares of junior 
preferred stock.  The shareholder rights plan  will expire on April 9, 2018. The preferred stock purchase rights 
are  triggered  ten  days  after  the  date  of  a  public  announcement  that  a  person  or  group  acting  in  concert  has 
acquired,  or  obtained  the  right  to  acquire,  beneficial  ownership  of  20%  or  more  of  our  outstanding  common 
stock.  The preferred stock purchase rights would cause dilution to a person or group that attempts to acquire 
the  Company  on  terms  that  do  not  satisfy  the  requirements  of  a  qualifying  offer  under  the  shareholder  rights 
plan or are otherwise not approved by our Board of Directors. 

 22

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
These provisions, either alone or in combination with each other, give our current directors and executive 
officers  a  substantial  ability  to  influence  the  outcome  of  a  proposed  acquisition  of  the  Company.    These 
provisions  would  apply  even  if  an  acquisition  or  other  significant  corporate  transaction  was  considered 
beneficial  by  some  of  our  shareholders.    If  a  change  in  control  or  change  in  management  is  delayed  or 
prevented by these provisions, the market price of our securities could decline. 

ITEM 1B.  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS 

None. 

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES   

Our home office headquarters and warehouse facilities are located on approximately 90 acres of land owned 
by  the  Company  in  Lebanon,  Tennessee.   We  utilize  approximately  245,000  square  feet  of  office  space  for  our 
home office headquarters and decorative fixtures warehouse.  We also  lease our  retail distribution center,  which 
consists  of  approximately  370,000  square  feet  of  warehouse  facilities  and  an  additional  approximately  14,000 
square feet of office and maintenance space.   

In  addition  to  the  various  corporate  facilities,  we  have  six  owned  properties  for  future  development,  a  motel 
used  for  housing management  trainees  and  for  the  general  public,  and  four  parcels  of  excess  real  property  and 
improvements that we intend to sell.   

In addition to the properties mentioned above, we own or lease  the following store properties (including both 
our 640 Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations and two locations for our Holler & Dash brand) as of September 
19, 2016: 

State 
Tennessee 
Florida 
Texas 
Georgia 
North Carolina 
Kentucky 
Alabama 
Virginia 
Ohio 
Indiana 
South Carolina 
Pennsylvania 
Illinois 
Missouri 
Michigan 
Arizona 
Mississippi 
Arkansas 
Louisiana 
Maryland 
New York 
West Virginia 

Owned 
37 
40 
33 
30 
24 
22 
21 
19 
22 
22 
14 
9 
19 
14 
13 
2 
9 
5 
8 
3 
8 
3 

Leased 
14 
18 
18 
15 
16 
14 
11 
13 
9 
7 
12 
14 
2 
3 
3 
11 
4 
7 
2 
6 
1 
6 

  State 

Oklahoma 
New Jersey 
Wisconsin  
Colorado 
Kansas 
Massachusetts 
New Mexico 
Utah 
Idaho 
Iowa 
Connecticut 
Montana 
Nebraska 
Delaware 
Maine 
Minnesota 
Nevada 
New Hampshire 
North Dakota 
Rhode Island 
South Dakota 

  Total 

Owned 
6 
2 
5 
3 
3 
0 
3 
4 
2 
3 
1 
2 
1 
0 
0 
1 
0 
1 
1 
0 
1 
416 

Leased 
2 
4 
0 
1 
1 
4 
1 
0 
1 
0 
1 
0 
1 
1 
1 
0 
1 
0 
0 
1 
0 
226 

We  believe  that  our  properties  are  suitable,  adequate,  well-maintained  and  sufficient  for  the  operations 
contemplated.    (cid:54)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:50)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:5)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:5)Store  Development"  in  Item  1  of  this  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K  for 
additional information on our properties. 

 23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS 

The  Company  and  its  subsidiaries  are  party  to  various  legal  and  regulatory  proceedings  and  claims 
incidental  to  their  business  in  the  ordinary  course.   In  the  opinion  of  management,  based  upon  information 
currently  available,  the  ultimate  liability  with  respect  to  these  proceedings  and  claims  will  not  materially  affect 
the Company's consolidated results of operations or financial position.  

Pursuant to Instruction 3 to Item 401(b) of Regulation S-K and General Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K, the following 
information is included in Part I of this Form 10-K. 

Executive Officers of the Registrant 

The following table sets forth certain information concerning our executive officers: 

Name 

Age 

Position with the Company 

Sandra B. Cochran 

58 

President and Chief Executive Officer   

Jill M. Golder 

54 

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 

Beverly K. Carmichael 

57 

Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer 

Christopher A. Ciavarra 

45 

Senior Vice President, Marketing 

Laura A. Daily 

52 

Senior Vice President, Retail 

Nicholas V. Flanagan 

50 

Senior Vice President, Operations 

Doug Couvillion 

52 

Vice President, Supply Chain and Quality Assurance 

Jeffrey M. Wilson 

41 

Vice President, Corporate Controller and Principal Accounting Officer 

Michael J. Zylstra 

50 

Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary 

The following information summarizes the business experience of each of our executive officers for at least the 

past five years: 

Ms. Cochran has been employed with us since 2009 and assumed her current position as President and Chief 
Executive  Officer  in  September  2011,  when  she  also  became  a  member  of  our  Board  of  Directors.    Prior  to 
September 2011, Ms. Cochran served as our President and Chief Operating Officer since November 2010 and as 
our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from April 2009 to November 2010.  Before joining us in 
April 2009, she was the Chief Executive Officer of Books-A-Million, Inc.  Ms. Cochran has 23 years of experience in 
the retail industry and seven years of experience in the restaurant industry.   

Ms.  Golder  has  been  employed  with  us  since  April  2016  and  assumed  the  responsibilities  of  Senior  Vice 
President and Chief Financial Officer in June 2016.  Prior to April 2016, she served as Executive Vice President and 
Chief Financial Officer of Ruby Tuesday, Inc. since June 2014, and as Senior Vice President, Finance from April 
2013 to June 2014.  Prior to her tenure with Ruby Tuesday, Inc., she was Chief Fin(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:43)(cid:68)(cid:90)(cid:78)(cid:3)
Winery & Restaurants from December (cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:21)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:22)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:77)(cid:82)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:43)(cid:68)(cid:90)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:58)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:9)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3)
Ms. Golder spent 23 years at Darden Restaurants, Inc., where she held progressively more responsible positions in 
finance,  including  Senior  Vice  President  of  Finance.    Ms.  Golder  has  almost  30  years  of  experience  in  the 
restaurant industry. 

Ms.  Carmichael  has  been  employed  with  us  in  her current  capacity  since  January  2014.    She most  recently 
was  with  Frisco,  Texas-based  Star  HR  LLC,  a  human  resource  consulting  firm,  which  she  founded  in  2010  and 
served  as  President.    From  2009  to  2011,  she  served  as  an  adjunct  professor  and  advisor  in  the  masters  of 
business administration program in the Price College of Business for the University of Oklahoma.  Ms. Carmichael 
was Executive Vice President Human Resources and Chief People Officer of Ticketmaster from 2006 to 2009.  She 
has over 20 years of human resources leadership experience.   

 24

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mr. Ciavarra has been employed with us since 2008 and assumed his current position in 2010.  Prior to 2010, 
Mr. Ciavarra served as Vice President, Brand and Menu Strategy since 2008.  Before joining us in 2008, he was the 
Director of Marketing for Aramark Corporation from 2005 to 2008.  Mr. Ciavarra has over 16 years of experience in 
the restaurant industry and over 11 years of experience in the retail industry. 

Ms. Daily has been employed with us as Senior Vice President, Retail since May 2012.  Prior to May 2012, she 
served as Vice President for Ballard Designs, an Internet and catalog home furnishings retailer that is part of HSN, 
Inc.,  where  she  was  in  charge  of  all  merchandising  and  trends  for  the  company.    She  has  over  23  years  of 
experience as a merchant with a number of retail organizations.   

Mr.  Flanagan  has  been  employed  with  us  since  2004  and  assumed  his  current  position  in  November  2010.  
From  2004  to  2010,  he  served  in  various  capacities  including  Vice  President  of  Restaurant  Operations.    Mr. 
Flanagan has over 27 years of experience in the restaurant industry.   

Mr. Couvillion has been employed with us since 2001 and assumed his current position in June 2015.  From 
2001  to  2015,  he  served  in  various  capacities  including  Vice  President,  Corporate  Controller  and  Principal 
Accounting Officer.  Mr. Couvillion has 22 years of experience in the restaurant industry and 15 years of experience 
in the retail industry.  

Mr. Wilson has been employed with us since 2007 and assumed his current position in June 2015.  From 2007 
to 2015, he served in various capacities including Vice President, Operations Analysis.  Mr. Wilson has 19 years of 
experience in the restaurant industry and five years of experience in the retail industry. 

Mr. Zylstra has been employed with us in various capacities since 1992 and assumed his current position in 
January 2012 after serving as Vice President, Associate General Counsel and Assistant Corporate Secretary since 
1999.    Mr.  Zylstra  has  25  years  of  experience  in  the  restaurant  and  retail  industries,  all  with  Cracker  Barrel  Old 
Country Store, Inc. 

PART II 

ITEM  5.    MARKET  FOR  REGISTRANT'S  COMMON  EQUITY,  RELATED  STOCKHOLDER  MATTERS  AND 
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES 

Our  common  stock  is  traded  on  the  NASDAQ  Global  Select  (cid:48)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:49)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:84)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:92)(cid:80)(cid:69)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:179)CBRL.(cid:180)  

There were 7,835 shareholders of record as of September 19, 2016. 

The following table indicates the high and low sales prices of our common stock, as reported by Nasdaq, 

and dividends declared and paid for the quarters indicated. 

Fiscal Year 2016 

Fiscal Year 2015 

Prices 

High 

Low 

  $155.97  $117.95 
 118.01 
    141.94 
124.80 
    156.65 
144.00 
    172.89 

Dividends 
Declared 
$1.10 
1.10 
1.10 
4.40 

Dividends  
Paid 
$4.10 
1.10 
1.10 
4.35 

Prices 

High 
  $116.34 
    142.49 
    159.94 
    162.33 

Low 
 $96.50 
 114.94 
121.89 
131.21 

Dividends 
Declared 
$1.00 
1.00 
1.00 
4.10 

Dividends  
Paid 
$1.00 
1.00 
1.00 
1.00 

First 
Second 
Third 
Fourth 

See Note 5 to Consolidated Financial Statements with respect to dividend restrictions. 

(cid:54)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:40)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81) Information(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)2016 Proxy Statement, 

incorporated by reference in Part III, Item 12 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

Part III, Item 12 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K is incorporated herein by this reference. 

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities 

There  were  no  equity  securities  sold  by  the  Company  during  the  period  covered  by  this  Annual  Report  on 

Form 10-K that were not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.  

 25

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities  

On September 25, 2015, our Board of Directors approved the repurchase of up to $25,000 of our common 
stock,  with  such  authorization  to  expire  on  October  7,  2016  to  the  extent  it  remains  unused.    We  did  not 
repurchase any of our common stock in the fourth quarter ended  July 29, 2016.  On September 22, 2016, our 
Board of Directors extended this repurchase authorization for an additional year. 

ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA 

Selected Income Statement Data: 
Total revenue 
Net income 
Net income per share: 

Basic 
Diluted 

Dividends declared per share 
Dividends paid per share 

As Percent of Total Revenue: 
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of    

depreciation and rent) 

Labor and related expenses 
Other store operating expenses 
Store operating income 
General and administrative expenses 
Operating income 
Income before income taxes 

Selected Balance Sheet Data: 
Working capital (deficit)  
Total assets 
Current interest rate swap liability 
Long-term debt 
Long-term interest rate swap liability 
Other long-term obligations 
(cid:54)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92) 

(Dollars in thousands except percentages and share data) 
For each of the fiscal years ended 

  July 29, 

2016 

  July 31, 
2015(a) 

  August 1, 

2014(b) 

  August 2, 
2013(c) 

  August 3, 

2012(d) 

$ 2,912,351 
189,299 

 $ 2,842,284 
163,903 

  $ 2,683,677 
132,128 

 $ 2,644,630 
117,265 

  $ 2,580,195  
103,081 

7.91 
7.86 
7.70 
10.65 

% 

31.9 
34.6 
19.0 
14.5 
4.9 
9.6 
9.1 

6.85 
6.82 
7.10 
4.00 

% 

32.5 
34.9 
18.4 
14.2 
5.2 
9.0 
8.4 

5.55 
5.51 
3.25 
3.00 

% 

32.5 
36.0 
18.9 
12.6 
4.8 
7.8 
7.1 

4.95 
4.90 
2.25 
1.90 

32.3 
36.5 
18.2 
13.0 
5.4 
7.6 
6.3 

% 

4.47 
4.40 
1.15 
0.97 

32.1 
36.8 
18.0 
13.1 
5.7 
7.4 
5.7 

% 

$     (13,077) 
1,497,664 
180 
400,000 
22,070 
126,608 
526,443 

 $      11,213 
  1,576,208 
1,117 
400,000 
8,704 
133,594 
538,268 

 $      (14,789)
1,432,248 
4,704 
375,000 
3,239 
123,221 
528,641 

  $   (13,873) 
  1,388,306 
-- 
400,000 
11,644 
120,073 
484,026 

  $     18,249 
1,418,992 
20,215 
525,036 
14,166 
114,897 
382,675 

Selected Cash Flow Data: 
Purchase of property and equipment, net 
Share repurchases 

$   113,360 
14,653 

$     90,490 
-- 

$      90,564  $      73,961 
3,570 

12,473 

$       80,170 
14,923 

Selected Other Data: 
Common shares outstanding at end of year  23,956,134 
641 
Stores open at end of year 

23,975,755 
637 

23,821,227 
631 

23,795,327 
624 

23,473,024 
616 

Average Unit Volumes(e): 

Restaurant 
Retail 

$       3,651 
926 

$       3,581 
904 

$       3,415 
873 

$        3,390 
869 

$        3,369 
863 

Comparable Store Sales(f): 
Period to period increase in comparable store 

sales: 

Restaurant 
Retail 
Memo: Number of stores in comparable base 

2.2  % 
2.7 
623 

5.1 % 
3.6 
621 

0.7 % 
0.4   
609 

3.1 % 
2.9                   1.6 
591 
596 

2.2 % 

 26

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a)  We incurred approximately $3,500 in costs related to a litigation matter, which are included in general and 
administrative  expenses.    Our  debt  refinancing  in  the  second  quarter  of  fiscal  2015  resulted  in  additional 
interest expense of $412 related to the write-off of deferred financing costs.   

(b)  We  incurred  $4,313  in  costs  related  to  the  November  2013  proxy  contest  and  April  2014  special 

(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:17) 

(c)  We incurred $4,111 in costs related to the November 2012 proxy contest, which are included in general and 

administrative expenses. 

(d)  Fiscal 2012 consisted of 53 weeks while all other periods presented consisted of 52 weeks.  The estimated 
impact  of  the  additional  week  was  to  increase  consolidated  fiscal  2012  results  as  follows:    total  revenue, 
$51,059;  store  operating  income,  0.2%  of  total  revenue;  operating  income,  0.2%  of  total  revenue;  net 
income, 0.2% of total revenue; and diluted net income per share, $0.27.   As part of our restructuring of our 
field  organization  in  April  2012,  we  incurred  severance  charges  of  $1,660,  which  are  included  in  general 
and  administrative  expenses.    We  also  incurred  $5,203  in  costs  related  to  the  December  2011  proxy 
contest, which are also included in general and administrative expenses.  

(e)  Average unit volumes include sales of all stores.  Fiscal 2012 included a 53rd week while all other periods 

presented consisted of 52 weeks. 

(f)  Comparable store sales consist of sales of stores open at least six full quarters at the beginning of the year 

and are measured on comparable calendar weeks. 

ITEM  7.  MANAGEMENT'S  DISCUSSION  AND  ANALYSIS  OF  FINANCIAL  CONDITION  AND  RESULTS  OF 
OPERATIONS 

(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:48)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)ysis  of  Financial  Condition  and  Results  of  Operations 
(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:48)(cid:39)(cid:9)(cid:36)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)
our  consolidated  results  of  operations  and  financial  condition.    MD&A  should  be  read  in  conjunction  with  the 
Consolidated  Financial  Statements  and  notes  thereto.    Readers  also  should  carefully  review  the  information 
(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:53)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:78)(cid:3) (cid:41)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:3) (cid:36)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:3)
amounts  (other  than  per  share  amounts)  reported  or  discussed  in  this  MD&A  are  shown  in  thousands.  
References in MD&A to a year or quarter are to our fiscal year or quarter unless expressly noted or the context 
clearly indicates otherwise. 

This overview summarizes the MD&A, which includes the following sections: 

(cid:120)  Executive Overview (cid:177) a general description of our business, the restaurant and retail industries, our key 

performance indicators (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)2016. 

(cid:120)  Results  of  Operations  (cid:177)  an  analysis  of  our  consolidated  statements  of  income  for  the  three  years 

presented in our Consolidated Financial Statements. 

(cid:120)  Liquidity  and  Capital  Resources  (cid:177)  an  analysis  of  our  primary  sources  of  liquidity,  capital  expenditures 

and material commitments. 

(cid:120)  Critical  Accounting  Estimates  (cid:177)  a  discussion  of  accounting  policies  that  require  critical  judgments  and 

estimates. 

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW 

(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:90)(cid:72)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:88)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:49)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:84)(cid:29)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:37)(cid:53)(cid:47)(cid:12)(cid:3)
company that, through  its operations and those of certain subsidiaries, is principally engaged in the operation 
(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:50)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:138)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:87)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:3) Each  Cracker  Barrel 
store consists of a restaurant with a gift shop.  The restaurants serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.  The gift shop 
area offers a variety of decorative and functional items specializing in rocking chairs, holiday gifts, toys, apparel 
and foods.  As of September 19, 2016, the Company operated 640 Cracker Barrel stores located in 43 states. 

 27

 
 
 
 
 
Restaurant and Retail Industries 

Our  stores  operate  in  both  the  restaurant  and  retail  industries  in  the  United  States.    The  restaurant  and 
retail industries are  highly competitive with respect to quality, variety and price of the food products  and retail 
merchandise  offered.    We  compete  with  a  significant  number  of  national  and  regional  restaurant  and  retail 
chains.    Additionally,  there  are  many  segments  within  the  restaurant  industry,  such  as  family  dining,  casual 
dining, full-service, fast casual and quick service, which often overlap and provide competition for widely diverse 
restaurant concepts.  We operate in the full-service segment of the restaurant industry.  Competition also exists 
in  securing  prime  real  estate  locations  for  new  stores,  in  hiring  qualified  employees,  in  advertising,  in  the 
attractiveness of facilities and with competitors having similar menu offerings or convenience.   The restaurant 
and retail industries are often affected by changes in consumer taste and preference; national, regional or local 
economic  conditions;  demographic  trends;  traffic  patterns;  the  type,  number  and  location  of  competing 
restaurants and retailers(cid:30)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:85)etionary purchasing power.   

Additionally,  economic,  seasonal  and  weather  conditions  affect  the  restaurant  and  retail  industries.  
Adverse  economic  conditions  and  unemployment  rates  affect  consumer  discretionary  income  and  dining  and 
shopping  habits.    Historically,  interstate  tourist  traffic  and  the  propensity  to  dine  out  have  been  much  higher 
during the summer months, thereby contributing to higher profits in our fourth quarter.  Retail sales, which are 
made substantially to our restaurant guests, are strongest in the second quarter, which includes the Christmas 
holiday shopping season.  Severe weather also affects restaurant and retail sales adversely from time to time. 

Key Performance Indicators 

Management  uses  a  number  of  key  performance  measures  to  evaluate  our  operational  and  financial 

performance, including the following: 

Comparable  store  restaurant  and  retail  sales  and  restaurant  guest  traffic  consist  of  sales  and  calculated 
number  of  guests,  respectively,  of  stores  open  at  least  six  full  quarters  at  the  beginning  of  the  year  and  are 
measured on comparable calendar weeks.  This measure excludes the impact of new store openings. 

Retail  conversion  is  the  percentage  of  restaurant  guest  traffic  that  make  a  retail  purchase.    Management 
uses  retail  conversio(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:93)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)
occasion. 

Average check per guest is an indicator which management uses to analyze the dollars spent per guest in 
our stores on restaurant purchases.  This measure aids management in identifying trends in guest preferences 
as well as the effectiveness of menu price increases and other menu changes. 

Store operating margins are defined as total revenue less cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and 
rent),  labor  and  other  related  expenses  and  other  store  operating  expenses,  all  as  a  percentage  of  total 
revenue.  Management uses this indicator as a primary measure of operating profitability. 

Company Performance in 2016  

Management believes that the Cracker  Barrel brand  remains one of the strongest and most differentiated 

brands in the restaurant industry.   

Our long-term strategy includes the following:   

(cid:120)  Enhancing  the  C(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)
traffic  and  sales  in  both  restaurant  and  retail,  implementing  geographic  pricing  tiers  to  optimize  average 
check and re-engineering store processes to increase operating margins; 

(cid:120)  Expanding the Footprint through continued use of our proven site selection tools, introducing a new and 

more efficient building and equipment prototype and the selective entry into new markets; and 

(cid:120)  Extending  the  Brand  by  building  on  the  initial  success  of  our  licensing  business,  leveraging  our  brand 
strengths into a new fast casual concept and growing our retail business into an omni-channel business. 

 28

 
 
 
 
Our first strategic priority, to Enhance the Core business, encompasses the key sales and traffic drivers of 
our business,  including menu  innovation, retail merchandising, and marketing programs, as well as our many 
cost-saving initiatives. In 2016, as part of our seasonal menu featured products, we offered several new limited-
time  menu  items,  as  well  as  highlighting  our  core  menu  guest  favorites.  We  believe  these  seasonal  menu 
offerings,  such  as  our  Campfire  Chicken  and  Campfire  Beef  entrées,  drove  incremental  improvements  to  our 
sales mix.  

Our  2016  marketing  programs  included  increased  use  of  national  cable  advertising,  an  expansion  of  our 
music  artist  partnerships,  and  growth  in  our  digital  and  social  media  channels.  We  also  continue  to  grow  our 
core  guest  base  through  Spanish-language  television  and  radio  advertising.  We  believe  the  marketing  plan 
execution supported our outperformance of the casual dining industry for comparable store sales and traffic. 

Further  driving  positive  sales  growth,  and  important  to  the  authentic  Cracker  Barrel  experience,  we 
merchandised  our  stores  with  distinctive  and  nostalgic  retail  products,  like  our  refreshing  nostalgic  sodas 
curated from all parts of the country.  We sourced collections with broad  multi-generational appeal and unique 
product  assortments,  such  as  our  (cid:179)Summer  Fun(cid:180)  theme  merchandise,  which  included  a  variety  of  clothing, 
accessories, and home décor items that we believe appealed to guests of all ages. 

During  2016,  we  remained  focused  on  implementing  several  cost-saving  initiatives,  and  as  a  result  grew 
operating  margin  to  9.6%,  an  increase  of  0.6%  when  compared  to  prior  year  operating  margin.  Despite 
continued wage pressure, we reduced our labor and other related expenses as a percentage of total revenue 
when  compared  with  the  prior  year.    Contributing  to  this,  and  to  savings  in  multiple  other  operating  expense 
lines, were our LED Lighting, Targeted Food Management, and new Food Processor initiatives.  

Our second strategic priority is to Expand the Cracker Barrel Footprint with new store openings outside of 
our  core  markets.  Through  the  use  of  our  refined  site  selection  tools,  the  implementation  of  market-based 
pricing tiers, and operating cost reductions realized through our Fusion prototype, we have begun to deliver on 
these plans. We opened our first Nevada store in 2016 and have additional sites in Nevada and Oregon in our 
new store pipeline. 

Our  third  strategic  priority  is  to  Extend  the  Brand  outside  of  the  Cracker  Barrel  store.  During  2016,  that 
included a focus on developing and bringing to market a new concept,  named Holler & Dash Biscuit HouseTM, 
to leverage the strength of the Cracker Barrel  brand  while  providing a  new type of guest  experience. With its 
biscuit-inspired  menu  that  pays  tribute  to  the  South  in  an  innovative  and  modern  way,  Holler  &  Dash  Biscuit 
HouseTM was created to extend our reach into more metropolitan locations and attract new guests. While we do 
not expect it to have a material financial impact in the near term, we are excited about this new concept. 

We believe that our continued focus on our long-term strategy contributed to our revenue growth during the 
year, positive comparable store restaurant and retail sales for the year and higher operating margin and profit as 
compared to the prior year.  

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 

The following table highlights operating results over the past three years: 

Total revenue 
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and rent) 
Labor and other related expenses 
Other store operating expenses 
Store operating income 
General and administrative 
Operating income 
Interest expense 
Income before income taxes 
Provision for income taxes 
Net income 

 29

Relationship to Total Revenue 
2015 
2016 
100.0% 
100.0% 
32.5 
31.9 
34.9 
34.6 
18.4 
19.0 
14.2 
14.5 
 5.2 
  4.9 
 9.0 
 9.6 
 0.6 
 0.5 
 8.4 
 9.1 
 2.6 
 2.6 
 5.8 
 6.5 

2014 
100.0% 
32.5 
36.0 
18.9 
12.6 
4.8 
7.8 
0.7 
7.1 
2.2 
4.9 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Revenue 

The following table highlights the key components of revenue for the past three years: 

2016 

2015 

2014 

Revenue in dollars:  
Restaurant 
Retail 
  Total revenue 

Total revenue percentage increase 
Total revenue by percentage relationships: 

Restaurant 
Retail 

Comparable number of stores 
Comparable store averages per store:  

$ 2,323,199   $ 2,269,610   $ 2,137,405  
     589,152 
546,272 
$ 2,912,351   $ 2,842,284   $ 2,683,677  
1.5% 

572,674 

2.5% 

5.9% 

         79.8% 
         20.2% 
            623 

         79.9%           79.6% 
         20.1%           20.4% 
            609 
            621 

Restaurant  
Retail 
Total 

Restaurant average weekly sales (1) 
Retail average weekly sales (1) 
(1) Average weekly sales are calculated by dividing net sales by operating weeks and include all stores. 

925 

$      3,670   $      3,569   $      3,422  
871 
$      4,595   $      4,463   $      4,293  
$        70.2   $        68.9   $        65.7  
16.8 

17.4 

17.8 

894 

Total revenue benefited from the opening of six new stores in both 2016 and 2015 and seven new stores in 

2014.  

The following table highlights comparable store sales* results over the past two years: 

Period to Period Increase  

2016 vs 2015 
(623 Stores) 

2015 vs 2014 
(621 Stores) 

Restaurant 
Retail 
Restaurant & Retail 
*Comparable store sales consist of sales of stores open at least six full quarters  at the beginning of the year 
and are measured on comparable calendar weeks. 

2.2% 
2.7 
2.3 

5.1% 
3.6 
4.8 

Our comparable store restaurant sales increase from 2015 to 2016 resulted from a higher average check of 
3.5%, primarily attributable to a 2.8% average menu price increase, partially offset by a decrease in guest traffic 
of  1.3%.    Our  comparable  store  restaurant  sales  increase  from  2014  to  2015  resulted  from  a  higher  average 
check of 3.0%, primarily attributable to a 2.5% average menu price increase and an increase in guest traffic of 
2.1%.     

The comparable store retail sales increase from 2015 to 2016 resulted primarily from strong performance in 
apparel and accessories, media, and food merchandise categories partially offset by a planned reduction in the 
toys  merchandise  category.    The  comparable  store  retail  sales  increase  from  2014  to  2015  resulted  primarily 
from  strong  performance  in  apparel  and  accessories,  bed  and  bath  and  home  décor  merchandise  categories 
and the increase in guest traffic.   

Cost of Goods Sold (Exclusive of Depreciation and Rent) 

The  following  table  highlights  the  components  of  cost  of  goods  sold  in  dollar  amounts  for  the  past  three 

years: 

Cost of Goods Sold: 
Restaurant 
Retail 
  Total Cost of Goods Sold 

 30

     2016 

2015 

2014 

$   627,713   $  630,417   $  589,390  
283,368 
$   928,176   $  924,171   $  872,758 

293,754 

300,463 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table highlights restaurant cost of goods sold as a percentage of restaurant revenue for the 

past three years: 

Restaurant Cost of Goods Sold 

2016 
27.0% 

2015 
27.8% 

2014 
27.6% 

The decrease from 2015 to 2016  was the result  of food commodity deflation of 0.4% and our menu price 
increase  referenced  above  partially  offset  by  a  shift  to  higher  cost  menu  items.    Higher  cost  menu  items 
accounted  for  0.1%  in  restaurant  cost  of  goods  sold  as  a  percentage  of  restaurant  revenue.    The  modest 
increase from 2014 to 2015 was the result of food commodity inflation of 2.7% and a shift to higher cost menu 
items  partially  offset  by  our menu  price  increase  referenced  above  and  lower  food  waste.    Higher  cost  menu 
items and lower food waste accounted for 0.2% and 0.1%, respectively, in restaurant cost of goods sold as a 
percentage of restaurant revenue.   

We  presently  expect  the  rate  of  commodity  deflation  to  be  approximately  2.0%  to  3.0%  in  2017  as 

compared to 2016.   

The following table highlights retail cost of goods sold as a percentage of retail revenue for the past three 

years: 

  Retail Cost of Goods Sold 

2016 
51.0% 

2015 
51.3% 

2014 
51.9% 

The decrease in retail cost of goods sold as a percentage of retail revenue in 2016 as compared to 2015 
resulted from higher initial margin and lower freight costs partially offset by higher markdowns and an increase 
in the provision for obsolete inventory.     

Higher initial margin 
Freight  
Markdowns 
Provision for obsolete inventory 

2015 to 2016  
(Decrease) Increase as a 
Percentage of Total Revenue 

(0.8%) 
(0.1%) 
                               0.5%  
                               0.1%  

The decrease in retail cost of goods sold as a percentage of retail revenue in 2015 as compared to 2014 

resulted primarily from lower markdowns and lower freight expense.    

Markdowns 
Freight 

Labor and Related Expenses 

2014 to 2015  
(Decrease) as a Percentage 
of Total Revenue 

(0.3%) 
(0.2%) 

Labor  and  other  related  expenses  include  all  direct  and  indirect  labor  and  related  costs  incurred  in  store 
operations.  The following table highlights labor and other related expenses as a percentage of total revenue for 
the past three years: 

Labor and other related expenses 

2016 
34.6% 

2015 
34.9% 

2014 
36.0% 

The year-to-year percentage change from 2015 to 2016 resulted from the following: 

Store bonus expense 
Payroll taxes 

 31

2015 to 2016  
(Decrease) as a Percentage 
of Total Revenue 

                                 (0.2%) 
                                 (0.1%) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lower  store  bonus  expense  in  2016  as  compared  to  2015  was  driven  by  lower  performance  against 

financial objectives in 2016 as compared to the prior year.   

The  decrease  in  payroll  tax  expense  as  a  percentage  of  total  revenue  in  2016  as  compared  to  2015 

resulted primarily from lower unemployment tax rates. 

The year-to-year percentage change from 2014 to 2015 resulted primarily from the following: 

Store hourly labor 
Employee health care expenses 
Store management compensation 
Payroll taxes 
Store bonus expense 

2014 to 2015  
(Decrease) Increase as a 
Percentage of Total Revenue 
                                 (0.6%) 
                                 (0.3%) 
                                 (0.3%) 
                                 (0.2%) 
                                  0.4% 

The decrease in store hourly labor costs as a percentage of total revenue from 2014 to 2015 resulted from 
menu  price  increases  being  greater  than  wage  inflation  and  improved  productivity  driven  by  the  successful 
implementation of labor savings initiatives in 2015.   

The decrease in our employee health care expenses as compared to the prior year resulted primarily from a 
reduction in premiums associated with our transition of a majority of our plans from fully insured to self-insured 
for the plan year ending December 31, 2015 and lower plan enrollment.    

The  decrease  in  store  management  compensation  expense  as  a  percentage  of  total  revenue  in  2015  as 

compared to 2014 resulted primarily from lower staffing levels in 2015 as compared to 2014. 

The  decrease  in  payroll  tax  expense  as  a  percentage  of  total  revenue  in  2015  as  compared  to  2014 

resulted primarily from a reduction in state unemployment tax rates. 

Higher  store  bonus  expense  in  2015  as  compared  to  2014  was  driven  by  better  performance  against 

financial objectives in 2015 as compared to the prior year.   

Other Store Operating Expenses 

Other store operating expenses include all store-level operating costs, the major components of which are 
utilities,  operating  supplies,  repairs  and  maintenance,  depreciation  and  amortization,  advertising,  rent,  credit 
card  fees,  real  and  personal  property  taxes,  general  insurance  and  costs  associated  with  our  store  manager 
conference.  The following table highlights other store operating expenses as a percentage of total revenue for 
the past three years: 

Other store operating expenses 

2016 
19.0% 

2015 
18.4% 

2014 
18.9% 

The year-to-year percentage change from 2015 to 2016 resulted from the following: 

Advertising 
Maintenance 
Supplies 
Depreciation 
Store manager conference expense 
Utilities 

 32

2015 to 2016  
Increase (Decrease) as a 
Percentage of Total Revenue 
                                 0.3% 
                                 0.2% 
                                 0.1% 
                                 0.1% 
                                 0.1% 
                                (0.2%) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The  increase  in  advertising  expense  as  a  percentage  of  total  revenue  for  2016  as  compared  to  2015  is 
consistent  with  our  planned  increase  in  advertising  spend  for  2016.    In  2017,  we  plan  to  spend  approximately 
2.9% of our revenues on advertising compared to 2.7% of revenues in 2016.   

Higher  maintenance  expense  as  a  percentage  of  total  revenue  for  2016  as  compared  to  2015  resulted 
primarily  from  expenses  associated  with  the  preventative  maintenance  and  related  repair  of  certain  building 
components and kitchen equipment.    

The increase in supplies expense as a percentage of total revenue for 2016 as compared to 2015 resulted 

primarily from a higher volume of purchases in certain categories.   

The  increase  in  depreciation  expense  as  a  percentage  of  total  revenue  for  2016  as  compared  to  2015 

resulted from higher capital expenditures in 2016 as compared to 2015. 

In the first quarter of 2016, we held a bi-annual manager conference and training event which was attended 
(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:58)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:24)(cid:3)
and we expect to hold our next conference in the first quarter of 2018.  

The  decrease  in  utilities  expense  from  2015  to  2016  resulted  primarily  from  lower  natural  gas  prices  and 
usage  and  lower  electricity  costs.    Lower  electricity  costs  resulted  primarily  from  our  LED  lighting  installation 
initiative.   

The year-to-year percentage change from 2014 to 2015 resulted from the following: 

Maintenance 
Utilities 
Store manager conference expense 

2014 to 2015  
(Decrease) as a Percentage 
of Total Revenue 

                                 (0.2%) 
                                 (0.2%) 
                                 (0.1%) 

Lower  maintenance  expense  as  a  percentage  of  total  revenue  for  2015  as  compared  to  2014  resulted 

primarily from cost saving initiatives.    

The decrease in utilities expense from 2014 to 2015 resulted primarily from milder winter weather and lower 

natural gas prices.     

In  the  first  quarter  of  2014,  we  held  a  manager  conference  which  was  attended  by  our  store  operations 

management team.   

General and Administrative Expenses 

The following table highlights general and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenue for the 

past three years: 

General and administrative expenses 

2016 
4.9% 

2015 
5.2% 

2014 

4.8% 

The  year-to-year  percentage  change  from  2015  to  2016  resulted  primarily  from  lower  incentive 
compensation.  Lower incentive compensation in 2016 as compared to 2015 was driven by lower performance 
against financial objectives as compared to the prior year.   

The year-to-year percentage change from 2014 to 2015 resulted from the following: 

Incentive compensation expense 
Litigation accrual 
Proxy contest expenses in the prior year 

 33

2014 to 2015  
Increase (Decrease) as a 
Percentage of Total Revenue 
                                   0.5% 
                                   0.1% 
                                 (0.2%) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Higher  incentive  compensation  in  2015  as  compared  to  2014  was  primarily  driven  by  better  performance 
against  financial  objectives  as  compared  to  the  prior  year  and  the  effect  of  the  increase  in  the  price  of  our 
common stock in 2015.   

In 2015, we incurred approximately $3,500 related to a previously disclosed litigation matter.   

In 2014, we incurred $4,313 in costs related to a proxy contest at our Annual Shareholders Meeting and a 

Special Meeting of Shareholders. 

Interest Expense 

The following table highlights interest expense for the past three years: 

Interest expense 

2016 

2015 

$   14,052  $  16,679 

2014 
$  17,557 

The year-to-year decrease from 2015 to 2016 resulted primarily from lower weighted average interest rates 
and  the  non-recurrence  of  $412  in  deferred  financing  costs  as  a  result  of  our  debt  refinancing  in  2015.    The 
year-to-year decrease from 2014 to 2015 resulted primarily from lower weighted average interest rates partially 
offset by the write-off of $412 in deferred financing costs as a result of our debt refinancing.   

Provision for Income Taxes 

The  following  table  highlights  the  provision  for  income  taxes  as  a  percentage  of  income  before  income 

(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)for the past three years: 

Effective tax rate 

2016 
28.9% 

2015 
31.2% 

2014 
30.8% 

The decrease in our effective tax rate from 2015 to 2016 resulted primarily from a reduction during 2016 of 
our  reserves  for  uncertain  tax  positions.    The  increase  in  our  effective  tax  rate  from  2014  to  2015  resulted 
primarily from lower employer tax credits as a percent of income before taxes. 

We presently expect our effective tax rate for 2017 to be between 31% and 33%.   

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES 

The following table presents a summary of our cash flows for the last three years: 

Net cash provided by operating activities 
Net cash used in investing activities 
Net cash used in financing activities 
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents 

2014 

2016 

2015 
$   271,378   $  334,055   $ 177,625 
  (88,815) 
  (91,167) 
  $  (114,489) $  146,094   $    (2,357) 

 (112,515) 
  (273,352) 

 (88,614) 
  (99,347) 

Our primary sources of liquidity are cash generated from our operations and our borrowing capacity under 
our  revolving  credit  facility.    Our  internally  generated  cash,  along  with  cash  on  hand  at  July  31,  2015,  was 
sufficient to finance all of our growth, dividend payments, share repurchases, working capital needs and other 
cash payment obligations in 2016.  

We  believe  that  cash  at  July  29,  2016,  along  with  cash  expected  to  be  generated  from  our  operating 
activities and the borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facility, will be sufficient to finance our continuing 
operations, our continuing expansion plans and our expected dividend payments for 2017. 

 34

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash Generated from Operations 

The  decrease  in  net  cash  flow  provided  by  operating  activities  from  2015  to  2016  primarily  reflected  the 
timing of payments for accounts payable and income taxes and the change in retail inventories.  The increase 
in  net  cash  flow  provided  by  operating  activities  from  2014  to  2015  reflected  lower  annual  and  long-term 
(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:92)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:24)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:92)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)
accounts payable, higher net income and lower retail inventories.  Lower retail inventories in 2015 resulted from 
improved buying strategies, fewer receipts of holiday merchandise and better general inventory management.   

Capital Expenditures 

The  following  table  presents  our  capital  expenditures  (purchase  of  property  and  equipment),  net  of 

proceeds from insurance recoveries, for the last three years: 

Capital expenditures, net of proceeds from insurance recoveries 

2016 

2015 
$  113,360  $  90,490  $ 90,564 

2014 

Our  capital  expenditures  consisted  primarily  of  capital  investments  for  existing  stores  and  new  store 
locations.  The  increase  in  capital  expenditures  from  2015  to  2016  resulted  primarily  from  capital  for  existing 
stores, as well as an increase in the number of new store locations.  Capital expenditures were relatively flat in 
2015 as compared to 2014.   

We estimate that our capital expenditures during 2017 will be approximately $125,000.  This estimate includes 
the  acquisition of sites and construction  costs of seven or eight  new  Cracker Barrel  stores and four or five new 
Holler & Dash Biscuit HouseTM locations that we plan to open during 2017, as well as acquisition and construction 
costs for store locations to be opened in 2018. We also expect to increase capital expenditures for technology and 
strategic initiatives, which are intended to improve the guest experience and improve margins.  We intend to fund 
our capital expenditures with cash generated by operations and borrowings under our revolving credit facility, as 
necessary. 

Borrowing Capacity and Debt Covenants 

In 2015, we entered into a five-year $750,000 revolving (cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)Revolving (cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:180)(cid:12).  The 
Revolving Credit Facility replaced a term loan totaling $181,250 and a $21(cid:27)(cid:15)(cid:26)(cid:24)(cid:19)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)
(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3) 

The  following  table  highlights  our  borrowing  capacity  and  outstanding  borrowings  under  the  Revolving 
Credit Facility, our standby letters of credit and our borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility as 
of July 29, 2016: 

July 29, 2016 
$         750,000 
           400,000 
          11,045 
$         338,955 

Borrowing capacity under the Revolving Credit Facility 

Less: Outstanding borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility 
Less: Standby letters of credit* 

Borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility 
(cid:13)(cid:50)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)
reduce our borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility.  

We did not borrow or make any debt payments in 2016 or 2014.  In 2015, we both borrowed and paid down 

$6,250 under our Prior Credit Facility.   

(cid:54)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:48)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:49)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:24)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:41)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)

information on our long-term debt. 

The  Revolving  Credit  Facility  contains  customary  financial  covenants,  which  include  maintenance  of  a 
maximum consolidated total leverage ratio and a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio.  We presently 
are  and  expect  to  remain  in  compliance  with  the  Revolving  (cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:41)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)nants  for  the 
remaining term of the facility. 

 35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dividends, Share Repurchases and Share-Based Compensation Awards 

Our Revolving Credit Facility imposes restrictions on the amount of dividends we are permitted to pay and 
the amount of shares we are permitted to repurchase. Under the Revolving Credit Facility, provided there is no 
default  existing  and  the  total  of  our  availability  under  the  Revolving  Credit  Facility  plus  our  cash  and  cash 
equivalents on  hand  is at  least $100,(cid:19)(cid:19)(cid:19)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:15)(cid:3) we may declare and  pay cash dividends  on 
shares of our common stock and repurchase shares of our common stock (1) in an unlimited amount if at the 
time the dividend or the repurchase is made our consolidated total leverage ratio is 3.00 to 1.00 or less and (2) 
in  an  aggregate  amount  not  to  exceed  $100,000  in  any  fiscal  year  if  our  consolidated  total  leverage  ratio  is 
greater than 3.00 to 1.00 at the time the dividend or repurchase is made; notwithstanding (1) and (2), so long as 
immediately after giving effect to the payment of any such dividends, cash availability is at least $100,000, we 
may declare and pay cash dividends on shares of our common stock in an aggregate amount not to exceed in 
any  fiscal  year  the  product  of  the  aggregate  amount  of  dividends  declared  in  the  fourth  quarter  of  the 
immediately preceding fiscal year multiplied by four.   

During the fourth quarter of 2015, we declared a special dividend of $3.00 per share of our common stock, 
which was paid on August 5, 2015 to shareholders of record on July 17, 2015.   During each of the first three 
quarters of 2016, we declared a regular  quarterly dividend of $1.10 per share of our common stock.   Each of 
these dividends was paid in the immediately following quarter.   Additionally, during the fourth quarter of 2016, 
we increased our regular quarterly dividend by 4.5% by declaring a dividend of $1.15 per share and declared a 
special dividend of $3.25 per share.  The special dividend was paid on July 29, 2016 to shareholders of record 
on July 15, 2016.  The regular quarterly dividend was paid on August 5, 2016 to shareholders of record on July 
15, 2016.   

The following table highlights the dividends per share we paid for the last three years:  

Dividends per share paid 

2016 

2015 

2014 

$ 

10.65  $ 

4.00  $ 

3.00 

Our current criteria for share repurchases are that they be accretive to expected net income per share and 
are within the limits imposed by our  Revolving Credit Facility.   Subject to the limits imposed by the  Revolving 
Credit Facility and Prior Credit Facility, in 2016, 2015 and 2014, we were authorized by our Board of Directors 
to repurchase shares at the discretion of management up to $25,000, $25,000 and $50,000, respectively.   

The following table highlights our share repurchases for the last three years:  

Shares of common stock repurchased 
Cost of shares repurchased 

2016 
  100,000  
$  14,653 

2015 

2014 

  --  
$          -- 

  120,000  
$  12,473 

In  2016,  2015  and  2014,  related  tax  withholding  payments  on  certain  share-based  compensation  awards 
exceeded proceeds received from the exercise of stock options which resulted in a net use of cash of  $5,779, 
$4,816 and $8,457, respectively.   

Working Capital 

In  the  restaurant  industry,  substantially  all  sales  are  either  for  cash  or  third-party  credit  card.    Like  many 
other  restaurant  companies,  we  are  able  to,  and  often  do,  operate  with  negative  working  capital.    Restaurant 
inventories  purchased  through  our  principal  food  distributor  are  on  terms  of  net  zero  days,  while  other 
restaurant inventories purchased locally are generally financed through trade credit at terms of 30 days or less.  
Because of our  gift shop,  which  has a lower product turnover than the restaurant,  we carry  larger inventories 
than many other companies in the restaurant industry.  Retail inventories  are generally financed through trade 
credit  at  terms  of  60  days  or  less.    These  various  trade  terms  are  aided  by  rapid  turnover  of  the  restaurant 
inventory.    Employees  generally  are  paid  on  weekly  or  semi-monthly  schedules  in  arrears  for  hours  worked 
except for bonuses that are paid either quarterly or annually in arrears.  Many other operating expenses have 
normal  trade  terms  and  certain  expenses  such  as  certain  taxes  and  some  benefits  are  deferred  for  longer 
periods of time.  

 36

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table highlights our working capital (deficit):  

Working capital (deficit) 

2016 

2015 
$  (13,077)  $  11,213  $  (14,789) 

2014 

The change in working capital at July 29, 2016 compared to July 31, 2015 primarily reflected a decrease in 
cash  from  operations  partially  offset  by  a  decrease  in  our  dividend  payable  and  the  timing  of  payments  for 
income taxes.  The change in working capital at July 31, 2015 compared to August 1, 2014 primarily reflected 
an  increase  in  cash  from  operations  partially  offset  by  an  increase  in  our  dividend  payable,  the  timing  of 
payments for accounts payable and lower retail inventories.   

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 

(cid:50)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:48)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)
Notes  2  and  9  to  our  Consolidated  Financial  Statements,  we  have  no  other  material  off-balance  sheet 
arrangements. 

Material Commitments 

Our contractual cash obligations and commitments as of July 29, 2016, are summarized in the tables 

below: 

Contractual Obligations (a) 
Revolving Credit Facility(b) 
Operating leases (c) 
Purchase obligations (d) 
Other long-term obligations (e) 
Total contractual cash obligations 

Revolving Credit Facility(b) 
Standby letters of credit(f) 
Guarantees (g) 
Total commitments 

Payments due by Years 
2020-2021 
2018-2019 

Total 
$   400,000  

2017 
         -- 
707,847  $    63,435   $     98,748  
15,072 
43,379 
7,636 
541 

After 2021 
-- 
73,387  $  472,277  
-- 
29,097 
$1,204,639   $  107,355   $   121,456   $   474,454   $  501,374  

--  $   400,000  

59,159 
37,633 

708 
359 

2017 

Amount of Commitment Expirations by Years 
2018-2019 

Total 
$  750,000  
11,045 

After 2021 
-- 
-- 
432  $           49  
$  762,227   $         230   $     11,516   $   750,432   $           49  

-- 
              -- 
1,182  $         230  

--   $   750,000  
-- 

$     11,045  
471  

2020-2021 

(a)  At July 29, 2016, the entire liability for uncertain tax positions (including penalties and interest) is classified 
as a long-term liability.  At this time, we are unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amounts 
and timing of payments in individual years because of uncertainties in the timing of the effective settlement 
of tax positions.  As such, the liability for uncertain tax positions of $27,397 is not included in the contractual 
cash obligations and commitments table above. 

(b)  Our Revolving Credit Facility expires on January 8, 2020.  Even though the Revolving Credit Facility expires 
in 2020, we have the intent and ability to refinance our debt to maintain a sufficient amount of outstanding 
borrowings  during  the  terms  of  our  interest  rate  swaps  that  expire  in  2021  and  2024.    Using  projected 
interest rates, we anticipate having  interest payments of $12,752, $28,425, $22,711 and $32,616 in 2017, 
2018-2019, 2020-2021 and after 2021, respectively.  The projected interest rates for our swapped portion of 
our  outstanding  borrowings  are  our  fixed  rates  under  our  interest  rate  swaps  (see  Note  6  to  the 
Consolidated Financial Statements) plus our current credit spread of 1.25%.  The projected interest rate for 
our unswapped portion of our outstanding borrowings is the average of the three-year and five-year swap 
rates  at  July  29,  2016  of  0.98%  plus  our  current  credit  spread  of  1.25%.    Based  on  our  outstanding 
borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility, our standby letters of credit at July 29, 2016 and our current 
unused commitment fee as defined in the Revolving Credit Facility, our unused commitment fees in 2017, 
2018-2019, and 2020-2021 would be $685, $1,371 and $298, respectively; however, the actual amount will 
differ based on actual usage of the Revolving Credit Facility in those years.   

(c)  Includes base lease terms and certain optional renewal periods for which, at the inception of the lease, it is 

reasonably assured that we will exercise.  

 37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(d)  Purchase  obligations  consist  of  purchase  orders  for  food  and  retail  merchandise;  purchase  orders  for 
capital expenditures, supplies, other operating needs and other services; and commitments under contracts 
for  maintenance  needs  and  other  services.    We  have  excluded  contracts  that  do  not  contain  minimum 
purchase  obligations.    We  excluded  long-term  agreements  for  services  and  operating  needs  that  can  be 
cancelled  within  60  days  without  penalty.   We  included  long-term  agreements  and  certain  retail  purchase 
orders  for  services  and  operating  needs  that  can  be  cancelled  with  more  than  60  days  notice  without 
penalty only through the term of the notice.  We included long-term agreements for services and operating 
needs that only can be cancelled in the event of an uncured material breach or with a penalty through the 
entire term of the contract.  Because  of the  uncertainties of seasonal demands  and  promotional calendar 
changes,  our best estimate of usage for food, supplies and  other  operating needs and  services is ratably 
over  either  the  notice  period  or  the  remaining  life  of  the  contract,  as  applicable,  unless  we  had  better 
information available at the time related to each contract. 

(e)  Other  long-term  obligations  include  our  Non-Qualified  Savings  Plan  ($27,764,  with  a  corresponding  long-
term  asset  to  fund  the  liability;  see  Note  12  to  the  Consolidated  Financial  Statements),  Deferred 
Compensation Plan ($1,874) and our long-term incentive plans ($7,995).   

(f)  (cid:50)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)

reduce our borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility.   

 (g)  Consists solely of guarantees associated with lease payments for two properties.  We are not aware of any 
non-performance  under  these  arrangements  that  would  result  in  us  having  to  perform  in  accordance  with 
the terms of these guarantees. 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements Adopted and Not Yet Adopted 

See Note 2 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of recent accounting 
guidance adopted and not yet adopted.  The adopted accounting guidance discussed in Note 2 did not have a 
significant impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.  The Company either expects 
that the accounting guidance not yet adopted (cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)
financial  position  or  results  of  operations  or  is  currently  evaluating  the  impact  of  adopting  the  accounting 
guidance.  

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES 

We  prepare  our  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  in  conformity  with  GAAP.  The  preparation  of  these 
financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions about future events and apply  judgments 
that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses and related disclosures.  We base our 
estimates  and  judgments  on  historical  experience,  current  trends,  outside  advice  from  parties  believed  to  be 
experts  in  such  matters  and  on  various  other  assumptions  that  are  believed  to  be  reasonable  under  the 
circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and 
liabilities  that  are  not  readily  apparent  from  other  sources.    However,  because  future  events  and  their  effects 
cannot be determined with certainty, actual results could differ from those assumptions and estimates, and such 
differences could be material. 

Our  significant  accounting  policies  are  discussed  in  Note  2  to  the  Consolidated  Financial  Statements.  
Judgments  and  uncertainties  affecting  the  application  of  those  policies  may  result  in  materially  different 
amounts being reported under different conditions or using different assumptions.  Critical accounting estimates 
are those that: 

(cid:120)  management  believes  are  most  important  to  the  accurate  portrayal  of  both  our  financial  condition  and 

(cid:120) 

operating results; and 
(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:69)(cid:77)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:3)(cid:77)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:74)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:3)
estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. 

We consider the following accounting estimates to be most critical in understanding the judgments that are 

involved in preparing our Consolidated Financial Statements: 

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Provision for Asset Dispositions 
(cid:120) 
(cid:120) 
Insurance Reserves 
(cid:120)  Retail Inventory Valuation 
(cid:120)  Tax Provision 

 38

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(cid:120)  Share-Based Compensation 
(cid:120)  Legal Proceedings 

Management  has  reviewed  these  critical  accounting  estimates  and  related  disclosures  with  the  Audit 
Committee of our Board of Directors. 

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Provision for Asset Dispositions 

We assess the impairment of long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that 
the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable.  Recoverability of assets is measured by comparing the 
carrying value of the asset to the undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset.  If the 
total  expected  future  cash  flows  are  less  than  the  carrying  amount  of  the  asset,  the  carrying  value  is  written 
down, for an asset to be held and used, to the estimated fair value or, for an asset to be disposed of, to the fair 
value,  net  of  estimated  costs  of  disposal.    Any  loss  resulting  from  impairment  is  recognized  by  a  charge  to 
income.  Judgments and estimates that we make related to the expected useful lives of long-lived assets and 
future  cash  flows  are  affected  by  factors  such  as  changes  in  economic  conditions  and  changes  in  operating 
performance.    The  accuracy  of  such  provisions  can  vary  materially  from  original  estimates  and  management 
regularly monitors the adequacy of the provisions until final disposition occurs. 

We  have  not  made  any  material  changes  in  our  methodology  for  assessing  impairments  during  the  past 
three years and we do not believe that there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in 
the estimates or assumptions used by us to assess impairment of long-lived assets.  However, if actual results 
are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions  used in estimating future cash flows and fair values of 
long-lived assets, we may be exposed to losses that could be material. 

Insurance Reserves 

We self-(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81) and general liability programs. 
In  2014  and  2015,  we  purchased  (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:71)ed  $250, 
$500  or  $1,000  depending  on  the  state  in  which  the  claim  originates.    Beginning  in  2016,  we  purchase 
(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:80)s  that  exceed  $250,  $750  or  $1,000  depending  on  the 
state  in  which  the  claim  originated.    We  purchase  insurance  for  individual  general  liability  claims  that  exceed 
$500.  (cid:58)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:89)(cid:72)d claims and for an 
estimate of incurred but not reported (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:44)(cid:37)(cid:49)(cid:53)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)claims.  These reserves and estimates of IBNR claims are based 
upon a full scope actuarial study which is performed annually at the end of our third quarter and is adjusted by 
the actuarially determined losses and actual claims payments for the fourth quarter.   Additionally,  we perform 
limited  scope  actuarial  studies  on  a  quarterly  basis  to  verify  and/or  modify  our  reserves.    The  reserves  and 
losses  in  the  actuarial  study  represent  a  range  of  possible  outcomes  within  which  no  given  estimate  is  more 
likely than any other estimate.  As such, we record the losses in the lower end of that range and discount them 
to present value using a risk-free interest rate based on projected timing of payments. We also monitor actual 
claims  development,  including  incurrence  or  settlement  of  individual  large  claims  during  the  interim  periods 
between actuarial studies as another means of estimating the adequacy of our reserves.   

Our  group  health  plans  combine  the  use  of  self-insured  and  fully-insured  programs.    Benefits  for  any 
individual (employee or dependents) in the self-insured group health program are limited.  We record a liability 
for the self-insured portion of our group  health  program for all  unpaid claims based upon a  loss development 
analysis  derived  from  actual  group  health  claims  payment  experience.    We  also  record  a  liability  for  unpaid 
prescription  drug  claims  based  on  historical  experience.    The  majority  of  our  fully-insured  health  insurance 
plans  for  calendar  2013  and  2014  contained  a  retrospective  feature  which  could  increase  or  decrease 
premiums based on actual claims experience.   

Our  accounting  policies  regarding  insurance  reserves  include  certain  actuarial  assumptions  and 
management  judgments  regarding  economic  conditions,  the  frequency  and  severity  of  claims  and  claim 
development  history  and  settlement  practices.    We  have  not  made  any  material  changes  in  the  accounting 
methodology used to establish our insurance reserves during the past three years and do not believe there is a 
reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions used to calculate the 
insurance reserves.  However, changes in these actuarial assumptions or management judgments in the future 
may produce materially different amounts of expense that would be reported under these insurance programs. 

 39

 
 
 
Retail Inventory Valuation 

Cost  of  goods  sold  includes  the  cost  of  retail  merchandise  sold  at  our  stores  utilizing  the  retail  inventory 
(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:53)(cid:44)(cid:48)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:56)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:44)(cid:48)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)is at cost and the resulting gross margins are 
calculated by applying a cost-to-retail ratio to the retail value of our inventories.  Inherent in the RIM calculation 
are  certain  significant  management  judgments  and  estimates,  including  initial  markons,  markups,  markdowns 
and  shrinkage,  which  may  significantly  impact  the  gross  margin  calculation  as  well  as  the  ending  inventory 
valuation.    

Inventory valuation provisions are included for retail inventory obsolescence and retail inventory shrinkage.  
Retail  inventory  is  reviewed  on  a  quarterly  basis  for  obsolescence  and  adjusted  as  appropriate  based  on 
assumptions made by management and judgment regarding inventory aging and future promotional activities.  
Cost of goods sold includes an estimate of shrinkage that is adjusted upon physical inventory counts.  Annual 
physical  inventory  counts  are  conducted  throughout  the  third  and  fourth  quarters  based  upon  a  cyclical 
inventory schedule.  An estimate of shrinkage is recorded for the time period between physical inventory counts 
by using a three-(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:75)(cid:92)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)-by-store basis.   

We  have  not  made  any  material  changes  in  the  methodologies,  estimates  or  assumptions  related  to  our 
merchandise  inventories  during  the  past  three  years  and  do  not  believe  there  is  a  reasonable  likelihood  that 
there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions in the future.  However, actual obsolescence or 
shrinkage recorded may produce materially different amounts than we have estimated.   

Tax Provision 

We must make estimates of certain items that comprise our income tax provision.  These estimates include 
effective state and local income tax rates, employer tax credits for items such as FICA taxes paid on employee 
tip  income  and  the  Work  Opportunity  credit,  as  well  as  estimates  related  to  certain  depreciation  and 
capitalization policies.  Our estimates are made based on current tax laws, the best available information at the 
time of the provision and historical experience.   

We recognize (or derecognize) a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return in the financial 
statements when it is more likely than not (i.e., a likelihood of more than fifty percent) that the position would be 
sustained (or not sustained) upon examination by tax authorities.  A recognized tax position is then measured at 
the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. 

We  file  our  income  tax  returns  many  months  after  our  year  end.    These  returns  are  subject  to  audit  by 
various  federal  and  state  governments  years  after  the  returns  are  filed  and  could  be  subject  to  differing 
interpretations of the tax laws.  We then must assess the likelihood of successful legal proceedings or reach a 
settlement  with  the  relevant  taxing  authority.    Although  we  believe  that  the  judgments  and  estimates  used  in 
establishing our tax provision are reasonable, an unsuccessful legal proceeding or a settlement could result in 
material adjustments to our Consolidated Financial Statements and our consolidated financial position. 

Share-Based Compensation 

Our  share-based  compensation  primarily  consists  of  nonvested  stock  awards  and  performance-based 
market (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)MSU Grants(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)Share-based compensation expense is recognized based on the grant date 
fair  value  and  the  achievement  of  performance  conditions  for  certain  awards.    We  recognize  share-based 
compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)
vesting period, or the date on which retirement eligibility is achieved, if shorter.   

Compensation expense is recognized for only the portion of our share-based compensation awards that are 
expected  to  vest.    Therefore,  an  estimated  forfeiture  rate  is  derived  from  historical  employee  termination 
behavior  and  is  updated  annually.    The  forfeiture  rate  is  applied  on  a  straight-line  basis  over  the  service 
(vesting) period and we update the estimated forfeiture rate to actual at each reporting period.   

Beginning in 2014, our share-based compensation awards accrue dividends.  Dividends will be forfeited for 

any share-based compensation awards that do not vest. 

 40

 
 
 
The  fair  value  of  our  nonvested  stock  awards  which  accrue  dividends  is  equal  to  the  market  price  of  our 
stock at the date of the grant.  Our nonvested stock awards are time vested except for awards under our long-
term  incentive  plans  which  also  contain  performance  conditions.    At  each  reporting  period,  we  reassess  the 
probability of achieving the performance conditions under our long-term incentive plans.  Determining whether 
the  performance  conditions  will  be  achieved  involves  judgment  and  the  estimate  of  expense  for  nonvested 
stock awards may be revised periodically based on changes in our determination of the probability of achieving 
the  performance  conditions.    Revisions  are  reflected  in  the  period  in  which  the  estimate  is  changed.  If  any 
performance conditions are not met, no shares will be granted, no compensation will ultimately be recognized 
and, to the extent previously recognized, compensation expense will be reversed.     

In addition to providing the requisite service, MSU Grants contain both a market condition, total shareholder 
return, and a performance condition. Total shareholder return is defined as the change in our stock price plus 
dividends paid during the performance period.  The number of shares awarded at the end of the performance 
period  will  vary  in  direct  proportion  to  a  target  number  of  shares  set  at  the  beginning  of  the  period,  up  to  a 
maximum of 150% of target, based  on the change  in our  cumulative total  shareholder  return over  the  period.  
The probability of the actual shares expected to be awarded is considered in the grant date valuation; therefore, 
the expense will not be adjusted to reflect the actual units awarded.  However, if the performance condition is 
not met, no shares will be granted, no compensation will ultimately be recognized and, to the extent previously 
recognized, compensation expense will be reversed.     

The  fair  value  of  our  MSU  Grants  was  determined  using  the  Monte-Carlo  simulation  model,  which 
simulates a range of possible future stock prices and estimates the probabilities of the potential payouts.   The 
Monte-Carlo simulation model uses the average prices for the 60-consecutive calendar days beginning 30 days 
prior  to  and  ending  30  days  after  the  first  business  day  of  the  performance  period.    This  model  also 
incorporates the following ranges of assumptions: 

(cid:120)  The  expected  volatility  is  a  blend  of  implied  volatility  based  on  market-traded  options  on  our  stock  and 
historical volatility of our stock over the period commensurate with the three-year performance period.   
(cid:120)  The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury rate assumption commensurate with the three-year 

performance period.   

(cid:120)  The  expected  dividend  yield  is  based  on  our  current  dividend  yield  as  the  best  estimate  of  projected 

dividend yield for periods within the three-year performance period. 

We  update  the  historical  and  implied  components  of  the  expected  volatility  assumption  when  new  grants  are 
made.  

We have not made any material changes in our estimates or assumptions used to determine share-based 
compensation during the past three years.  We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be 
a  material  change  in  the  future  estimates  or  assumptions  used  to  determine  share-based  compensation 
expense.  However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed 
to changes in share-based compensation expense that could be material. 

Legal Proceedings 

We are parties to various legal and regulatory proceedings and claims incidental to our business from time 
to time.  We review outstanding claims and proceedings internally and with external counsel, as necessary and 
appropriate,  to  assess  probability  of  loss  and  for  the  ability  to  estimate  loss.    These  assessments  are  re-
evaluated  each  quarter  or  as  new  information  becomes  available  to  determine  whether  a  reserve  should  be 
established or  if any existing reserve should  be  adjusted.  The  actual cost  of resolving a claim or proceeding 
ultimately may be substantially different than the amount of the recorded reserve.  Although we believe that the 
judgments  and  estimates  used  in  establishing  our  legal  reserves  are  reasonable,  an  unsuccessful  legal 
proceeding or a settlement could result in material adjustments to our Consolidated Financial Statements and 
our consolidated financial position. 

 41

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK 

We are exposed to market risk, such as changes in interest rates and commodity prices.  We do not hold or 

use derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. 

Interest  Rate  Risk.   We  have  interest  rate  risk  relative  to  our  outstanding  borrowings  under  our  revolving 
credit facility.  At both July 29, 2016 and July 31, 2015, our outstanding borrowings totaled $400,000 (see Note 
5 to our Consolidated Financial Statements).  Loans under our credit facility bear interest, at our election, either 
at  the  prime  rate  or  LIBOR  plus  a  percentage  point  spread  based  on  certain  specified  financial  ratios.    Our 
policy has been to manage interest cost using a mix of fixed and variable rate debt (see Notes 5, 6 and 9 to our 
Consolidated  Financial  Statements).    To  manage  this  risk  in  a  cost  efficient  manner,  we  have  entered  into 
interest rate swaps.  A summary of our interest rate swaps at July 29, 2016 is as follows: 

Trade Date 
March 18, 2013 
April 8, 2013 
April 15, 2013 
April 22, 2013 
April 25, 2013 
June 18, 2014 
June 24, 2014 
July 1, 2014 
January 30, 2015 
January 30, 2015 
January 30, 2015 
January 30, 2015 
January 30, 2015 

Effective Date 

Term  
(in Years) 

 May 3, 2015 
 May 3, 2015 
 May 3, 2015 
 May 3, 2015 
 May 3, 2015 
     May 3, 2015 
 May 3, 2015 
     May 5, 2015 
 May 3, 2019 
 May 3, 2019 
 May 4, 2021 
 May 3, 2019 
 May 4, 2021 

3 
2 
2 
3 
3 
4 
4 
4 
2 
2 
3 
2 
3 

Notional Amount 
  $                 50,000 
                     50,000 
                     50,000 
                     25,000 
                     25,000 
                     80,000 
                     60,000 
                     60,000 
                     80,000 
                     60,000 
                   120,000 
                     60,000 
                     80,000 

Fixed 
Rate 

1.51% 
1.05% 
1.03% 
1.30% 
1.29% 
2.51% 
2.51% 
2.43% 
2.15% 
2.16% 
2.41% 
2.15% 
2.40% 

The notional amount for the interest rate swap entered into on June 18, 2014 increases by $40,000 each 
May over the four-year term of the interest rate swap until the notional amount reaches $160,000 in May 2018.  
The notional amounts for the interest rate swaps entered into on June 24, 2014 and July 1, 2014 increase by 
$30,000  each  May  over  the  four-year  terms  of  the  interest  rate  swaps  until  the  notional  amounts  each  reach 
$120,000 in May 2018. 

At  July  29,  2016  and  July  31,  2015,  our  outstanding  borrowings  were  swapped  at  a  weighted  average 
interest rate of 3.10% and 2.96%, respectively, which are the weighted average fixed rates of our interest rate 
swaps  plus  our  current  credit  spread.    See  Note  6  to  our  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  for  further 
discussion of our interest rate swaps. 

Commodity Price Risk. Many of the food products that we purchase are affected by commodity pricing and 
are,  therefore,  subject  to  price  volatility  caused  by  market  conditions,  weather,  production  problems,  delivery 
difficulties and other factors which are outside our control and which are generally unpredictable.  

The  following  table  highlights  the  five  food  categories  which  accounted  for  the  largest  shares  of  our  food 

purchases in 2016 and 2015: 

Beef 
Dairy (including eggs) 
Fruits and vegetables  
Pork 
Poultry 

Percentage of Food Purchases 

2016 
15% 
13% 
12% 
11% 
11% 

2015 
15% 
13% 
12% 
11% 
10% 

 42

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other categories affected by the commodities markets, such as grains and seafood, may each account for 
as  much  as  8%  of  our  food  purchases.    While  some  of  our  food  items  are  produced  to  our  proprietary 
specifications, our food items are based on generally available products, and if any existing suppliers fail, or are 
unable to deliver in quantities required by us, we believe that there are sufficient other quality suppliers in the 
marketplace that our sources of supply can be replaced as necessary to allow us to avoid any material adverse 
effects  that  could  be  caused  by  such  unavailability.    We  also  recognize,  however,  that  commodity  pricing  is 
extremely volatile and can change unpredictably even over short periods of time.  Changes in commodity prices 
would  affect us and our competitors generally, and depending  on the terms and duration  of supply  contracts, 
sometimes simultaneously.  We enter into contracts for certain of our products in an effort to minimize volatility 
of supply and pricing.  In many cases, or over the longer term, we believe we will be able to pass through some 
or  much  of  the  increased  commodity  costs  by  adjusting  our  menu  pricing.    From  time  to  time,  competitive 
circumstances,  or  judgments  about  consumer  acceptance  of  price  increases,  may  limit  menu  price  flexibility, 
and in those circumstances, increases in commodity prices can result in lower margins. 

 43

 
 
ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM 
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. 
Lebanon, Tennessee 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. and 
its (cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:69)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)July 29, 2016 and July 31, 2015, and the related consolidated statements 
of income, comprehensive income, chan(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)
years  in  the  period  ended  July  29,  2016(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these  consolidated financial statements based on 
our audits. 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board 
(United  States).  Those  standards  require  that  we  plan  and  perform  the  audit  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance 
about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. 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  audits  provide  a  reasonable  basis  for  our 
opinion. 

In  our  opinion,  such  consolidated  financial  statements  present  fairly,  in  all  material  respects,  the  financial 
position  of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. and  its subsidiaries  as of  July  29, 2016  and  July 31, 2015, 
and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended July 
29, 2016, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. 

We  have  also  audited,  in  accordance  with  the  standards  of  the  Public  Company  Accounting  Oversight  Board 
(cid:11)(cid:56)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:12)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86) internal control over financial reporting as of July 29, 2016, based on the criteria 
established  in  Internal  Control—Integrated  Framework  (2013)  issued  by  the  Committee  of  Sponsoring 
Organizations  of  the  Treadway  Commission  and  our  report  dated  September  26,  2016  expressed  an 
(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:17) 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP 

Nashville, Tennessee 
September 26, 2016 

 44

 
 
 
 
 
 
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 

ASSETS 
Current Assets: 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Accounts receivable 
Income taxes receivable 
Inventories 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 
Deferred income taxes 
Total current assets 
Property and Equipment: 
Land 
Buildings and improvements 
Buildings under capital leases 
Restaurant and other equipment 
Leasehold improvements 
Construction in progress 
Total 

Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization of capital leases 

Property and equipment (cid:177) net 
Other assets 
Total 

(cid:47)(cid:44)(cid:36)(cid:37)(cid:44)(cid:47)(cid:44)(cid:55)(cid:44)(cid:40)(cid:54)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:49)(cid:39)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:43)(cid:36)(cid:53)(cid:40)(cid:43)(cid:50)(cid:47)(cid:39)(cid:40)(cid:53)(cid:54)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:52)(cid:56)(cid:44)(cid:55)(cid:60) 
Current Liabilities: 
Accounts payable 
Taxes withheld and accrued 
Accrued employee compensation 
Accrued employee benefits 
Deferred revenues 
Dividend payable 
Current interest rate swap liability 
Other current liabilities 
Total current liabilities 
Long-term debt 
Long-term interest rate swap liability 
Other long-term obligations 
Deferred income taxes 
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 9 and 15) 
(cid:54)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:29) 
Preferred stock (cid:177) 100,000,000 shares of $.01 par value authorized; 

300,000 shares designated as Series A Junior Participating Preferred 
Stock; no shares issued 

Common stock (cid:177) 400,000,000 shares of $.01 par value authorized; 2016 

(cid:177) 23,956,134 shares issued and outstanding; 2015 (cid:177) 23,975,755  

    shares issued and outstanding 
Additional paid-in capital 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss 
Retained earnings 
(cid:55)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92) 
Total 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

 45

(In thousands except share data) 
July 29, 2016 

July 31, 2015 

$        150,966 
19,389 
           16,184  
152,308 
14,573 
2,320 
355,740 

303,416 
814,176 
3,289 
572,551 
306,489 
11,924 
2,011,845 
931,656 
1,080,189 
61,735 
 $    1,497,664  

$        265,455 
18,050 
              --  
153,058 
14,167 
6,094 
456,824 

303,267 
788,641 
3,289 
541,409 
286,990 
7,464 
1,931,060 
878,424 
1,052,636 
66,748 
$     1,576,208  

$     132,493 
37,561 
61,187  
27,928 
64,028  
29,706  
180  
15,734 
368,817 
400,000 
22,070 
126,608 
53,726 

$     133,117 
39,061 
67,421  
27,717  
58,980  
98,796  
1,117  
19,402 
445,611 
400,000 
8,704 
133,594 
50,031 

-- 

-- 

240 
         51,462  
(13,740) 
488,481 
526,443 
$  1,497,664  

240 
         56,066  
(3,725) 
485,687 
538,268 
$  1,576,208  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME 

(In thousands except share data) 
Fiscal years ended 
July 31, 2015 

July 29, 2016 

August 1, 2014 

Total revenue 
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and rent) 
Labor and other related expenses 
Other store operating expenses 
Store operating income 
General and administrative expenses 
Operating income 
Interest expense 
Income before income taxes 
Provision for income taxes 
Net income 

$      2,912,351  $      2,842,284 
924,171 
992,382 
523,307 
402,424 
147,544 
254,880 
16,679 
238,201 
74,298 
$         189,299  $         163,903 

928,176 
1,006,188 
554,534 
423,453 
142,982 
280,471 
14,052 
266,419 
77,120 

$      2,683,677 
872,758 
966,593 
506,533 
337,793 
129,387 
208,406 
17,557 
190,849 
58,721 
$         132,128 

Net income per share - basic 
Net income per share - diluted 

$               7.91   $               6.85   $               5.55  
$               7.86   $               6.82   $               5.51  

Basic weighted average shares outstanding 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 

23,945,041 
24,074,273 

23,918,368 
24,048,924 

23,817,768 
23,966,015 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

 46

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 

(In thousands) 
Fiscal years ended 
July 31, 2015 

July 29, 2016 

August 1, 
2014 

Net income 

$      189,299 

$      163,903 

$      132,128 

Other comprehensive (loss) income before income tax 
expense: 

 Change in fair value of interest rate swaps 

Income tax (benefit) expense 
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax 
Comprehensive income 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

              1,641  
        (16,188) 
                 633  
          (6,173) 
              1,008  
        (10,015) 
$      179,284   $       164,911  

              3,058  
              1,179  
              1,879  
$      134,007  

 47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF (cid:38)(cid:43)(cid:36)(cid:49)(cid:42)(cid:40)(cid:54)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:49)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:43)(cid:36)(cid:53)(cid:40)(cid:43)(cid:50)(cid:47)(cid:39)(cid:40)(cid:53)(cid:54)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:52)(cid:56)(cid:44)(cid:55)(cid:60) 
(In thousands except share data) 

Balances at August 2, 2013 
Comprehensive Income: 

Net income 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax  
Total comprehensive income 

Cash dividends declared - $3.25 per share 
Share-based compensation  
Issuance of share-based compensation awards,  
net of shares withheld for employee taxes 

Tax benefit realized upon exercise of share-based 

compensation awards 

Purchases and retirement of common stock 

Balances at August 1, 2014 
Comprehensive Income: 

Net income 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax  
Total comprehensive income 

Cash dividends declared - $7.10 per share 
Share-based compensation 
Issuance of share-based  compensation awards, 
net of shares withheld for employee  taxes 
Tax benefit realized upon exercise of share-based 

compensation awards 

Purchases and retirement of common stock 

Balances at July 31, 2015 
Comprehensive Income: 

Net income 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax  
Total comprehensive income 

Cash dividends declared - $7.70 per share 
Share-based compensation 
Issuance of share-based  compensation awards, 
net of shares withheld for employee  taxes 
Tax benefit realized upon exercise of share-based 

compensation awards 

Purchases and retirement of common stock 

Balances at July 29, 2016 

Common Stock 

Shares 

Amount 
23,795,327  $      237  $        51,728 

Additional 
Paid-In 
Capital 

Accumulated 
Other 
Comprehensive 
Loss 

Retained 
Earnings 
  $          (6,612)  $  438,673 

Total 
(cid:54)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182) 
Equity 

$ 

484,026 

-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
7,924 

-- 
1,879 
1,879 
-- 
-- 

132,128 
-- 
132,128 
    (77,634) 
-- 

132,128 
1,879 
134,007 
      (77,634) 
7,924 

145,900 

2  

 (8,459) 

-- 

-- 

(8,457) 

-- 
    (120,000) 
23,821,227 

-- 
        (1) 
238 

1,248 
      (12,472) 
39,969 

-- 
-- 

-- 
-- 
(4,733)   493,167 

1,248 
          (12,473) 
528,641 

-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
16,210 

-- 
1,008 
1,008 
-- 
-- 

163,903 
-- 
163,903 
  (171,383) 
-- 

163,903 
1,008 
164,911 
      (171,383) 
16,210 

154,528 

2  

 (4,818) 

-- 

-- 

(4,816) 

-- 
                 -- 
23,975,755 

-- 
        -- 
240 

-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

4,705 
      -- 
56,066 

-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
13,202 

-- 
-- 

-- 
-- 
(3,725)   485,687 

4,705 
                    -- 
538,268 

-- 
(10,015)
(10,015)
-- 
-- 

189,299 
-- 
189,299 
  (186,505) 
-- 

189,299 
      (10,015) 
179,284 
      (186,505) 
13,202 

80,379 

1  

 (5,780) 

-- 

-- 

(5,779) 

-- 
    (100,000) 
23,956,134 

-- 
-- 
-- 
        (1) 
$     240   $      51,462   $          (13,740) 

2,626 
      (14,652) 

-- 
-- 
$  488,481 

2,626 
          (14,653) 
$        526,443  

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 

 48

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 

Cash flows from operating activities: 

Net income 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided 
by operating activities: 

Depreciation and amortization 
Loss on disposition of property and equipment 
Share-based compensation 
Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation 

Changes in assets and liabilities: 

Accounts receivable 
Income taxes receivable 
Inventories 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 
Other assets 
Accounts payable 
Taxes withheld and accrued 
Accrued employee compensation 
Accrued employee benefits 
Deferred revenues 
Other current liabilities 
Other long-term obligations 
Deferred income taxes 

Net cash provided by operating activities 

Cash flows from investing activities: 

Purchase of property and equipment 
Proceeds from insurance recoveries of property and 

equipment 

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment 
Net cash used in investing activities 

Cash flows from financing activities: 

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt 
 (Taxes withheld) and proceeds from issuance of share-

July 29, 2016 

(In thousands) 
Fiscal years ended 
July 31, 2015 

August 1, 2014 

$           189,299   $         163,903   $         132,128 

78,223 
7,146 
13,202 
             (2,626) 

72,955 
6,872 
16,210 
            (4,705) 

68,389 
5,163 
7,924 
            (1,248) 

             (1,339) 
            (13,558) 
        750  
               (406) 
        130  
               (624) 
             (1,500) 
             (6,246) 
        211  
          5,048  
             (3,705) 
             (6,269) 
          13,642  
             271,378 

          4,654  
          2,973  
        12,368  
           (2,170) 
           (1,659) 
        34,640  
          2,800  
          6,485  
          1,667  
          9,155  
          4,034  
             11,090 
           (7,217) 
           334,055 

           (6,762) 
           (1,725) 
         (18,739) 
             651  
           (1,701) 
         (12,160) 
1,185 
           (1,847) 
          1,573  
5,727 
           (1,960) 
3,865 
           (2,838) 
           177,625 

          (114,022) 

          (90,855) 

         (91,646) 

662 
845  
          (112,515) 

365  
1,876  
         (88,614) 

1,082  
1,749  
         (88,815) 

                        -- 

             406,250 

                      -- 

based compensation awards, net 

            (5,779) 

            (4,816) 

           (8,457) 

Principal payments under long-term debt and other long-

term obligations 

Purchases and retirement of common stock 
Deferred financing costs 
Dividends on common stock 
Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation 
Net cash used in financing activities 

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: 

Cash paid during the year for: 

Interest, net of amounts capitalized 
Income taxes 

Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing 

activities: 
Capital expenditures accrued in accounts payable 
Change in fair value of interest rate swaps 
Change in deferred tax asset for interest rate swaps 
Dividends declared but not yet paid 

 49

    (406,250) 

         (255,546) 
          2,626 

    -- 
         (14,653) 
                      -- 

                    -- 
             (3,537) 
         (95,699) 
          4,705 

    (1) 
           (12,473) 
-- 
        (71,484) 
1,248  
          (91,167) 
            (2,357) 
121,718 
$           150,966   $         265,455   $         119,361  

             (273,352)               (99,347) 
146,094  
             (114,489) 
119,361 

265,455 

$              12,752   $           15,356   $           15,856  
66,444  

69,948  

84,868  

$                6,379  $             5,800  $             5,767 
1,641                 3,058  
               (16,188)
                (633)               (1,179) 
6,173 
23,997 
30,625 

99,678 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                
                
                
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC. 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
(In thousands except share data) 

1.  Description of the Business 

(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:50)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:49)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)
principally  engaged  in  the  operation  and  development  in  the  United  States  (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:56)(cid:17)(cid:54)(cid:17)(cid:180)(cid:12)  of  the  Cracker  Barrel  Old 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:138)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:87)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3) 

2.  Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 

GAAP  (cid:177)  The  accompanying  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  have  been  prepared  in  accordance  with 

generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:42)(cid:36)(cid:36)(cid:51)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:17) 

Fiscal year (cid:177) (cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:45)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:22)(cid:20)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) of 
(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:78)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:49)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)
fiscal year or quarter unless noted otherwise. 

Principles of consolidation (cid:177) The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company 
and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned.  All significant intercompany transactions and balances have 
been eliminated. 

Cash and cash equivalents (cid:177) (cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)

with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. 

Accounts  receivable  (cid:177)  Accounts  receivable  represent  their  estimated  net  realizable  value.    Accounts 

receivable are written off when they are deemed uncollectible. 

Inventories  (cid:177)  Inventories  are  stated  at  the  lower  of  cost  or  market.    Cost  of  restaurant  inventory  is 
determined  by  the  first-in,  first-(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:41)(cid:44)(cid:41)(cid:50)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:71).    Retail  inventories  are  valued  using  the  retail  inventory 
(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:53)(cid:44)(cid:48)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:70)enter  which  uses  average  cost.    Approximately  75%  of  retail 
inventories are valued using RIM and the remaining retail inventories are valued using an average cost method.  
See Note 4 for additional information regarding the components of inventory. 

Valuation provisions are included for retail inventory  obsolescence, retail inventory shrinkage, returns and 
amortization  of  certain  items.    Cost  of  goods  sold  includes  an  estimate  of  retail  inventory  shrinkage  that  is 
adjusted upon physical inventory counts.  Annual physical inventory counts are conducted throughout the third 
and fourth quarters based upon a cyclical inventory schedule.  An estimate of shrinkage is recorded for the time 
period between physical inventory counts by using a three-year average of the physical inv(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)
store-by-store basis. 

Property  and  equipment  (cid:177)  Property  and  equipment  are  stated  at  cost.    For  financial  reporting  purposes, 
depreciation  and  amortization  on  these  assets  are  computed  by  use  of  the  straight-line  and  double-declining 
balance methods over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets, as follows: 

Buildings and improvements 
Buildings under capital leases 
Restaurant and other equipment 
Leasehold improvements 

Accelerated depreciation methods are generally used for income tax purposes. 

Years 
     30-45 
     15-25 
       2-10 
       1-35 

 50

 
 
 
 
 
 
Total depreciation expense and depreciation expense related to store operations for each of the three years 

are as follows: 

2015 
$      77,816   $   72,390   $    67,620  
Total depreciation expense 
Depreciation expense related to store operations* 
62,746 
*Depreciation  expense  related  to  store  operations  is  included  in  other  store  operating  expenses  in  the 
Consolidated Statements of Income. 

66,754 

71,382 

2016 

2014 

Gain or loss is recognized upon disposal of property and equipment.  The asset and related accumulated 

depreciation and amortization amounts are removed from the accounts. 

Maintenance  and  repairs,  including  the  replacement  of  minor  items,  are  charged  to  expense  and  major 

additions to property and equipment are capitalized. 

Impairment  of  long-lived  assets  (cid:177)  The  Company  assesses  the  impairment  of  long-lived  assets  whenever 
events  or  changes  in  circumstances  indicate  that  the  carrying  value  of  an  asset  may  not  be  recoverable.  
Recoverability of assets is measured  by comparing the carrying  value of the asset to the undiscounted future 
cash  flows  expected  to  be  generated  by  the  asset.    If  the  total  expected  future  cash  flows  are  less  than  the 
carrying  value  of  the  asset,  the  carrying  value  is  written  down,  for  an  asset  to  be  held  and  used,  to  the 
estimated fair value or, for an asset to be disposed of, to the fair value, net of estimated costs of disposal.  Any 
loss resulting from impairment is recognized by a charge to income.    

Derivative instruments and hedging activities (cid:177) The Company is exposed to market risk, such as changes in 
interest rates and commodity prices.  The Company has interest rate risk relative to its outstanding borrowings, 
which bear interest at the (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:47)(cid:44)(cid:37)(cid:50)(cid:53)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:3)
based on certain specified financial ratios under its revolving (cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:49)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:24)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:92)(cid:3)
has  been  to  manage  interest  cost  using  a  mix  of  fixed  and  variable  rate  debt.    To manage  this  risk  in  a  cost 
efficient manner, the Company uses derivative instruments, specifically interest rate swaps. 

Companies  may  elect  whether  or  not  to  offset related  assets  and  liabilities  and  report  the  net  amount  on 
their financial statements if the right of setoff exists.  Under a master netting agreement, the Company has the 
legal  right  to  offset  the  amounts  owed  to  the  Company  against  amounts  owed  by  the  Company  under  a 
derivative instrument that exists between the Company and a counterparty.  When the Company is engaged in 
more than one outstanding derivative transaction with the same counterparty and also has a legally enforceable 
master  netting  agreement  with  that  counterparty,  its  credit  risk  exposure  is  based  on  the  net  exposure  under 
the master netting agreement.  If, on a net basis, the Company owes the counterparty, the Company regards its 
credit exposure to the counterparty as being zero.   

The Company does not hold or use derivative instruments for trading purposes.  The Company also does 
not have any derivatives not designated as hedging instruments and has not designated any non-derivatives as 
hedging instruments.  See Note 6 for additiona(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:74)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:17)(cid:3) 

Segment reporting (cid:177) Operating segments are components of an enterprise about which separate financial 
information  is  available  that  is  evaluated  regularly  by  the  chief  operating  decision  maker  in  deciding  how  to 
allocate resources and in assessing performance.   Utilizing these criteria, the Company manages its business 
on  the  basis  of  one  reportable  operating  segment  (see  Note  8  for  additional  information  regarding  segment 
reporting). 

Revenue  recognition  (cid:177)  The  Company  records  revenue  from  the  sale  of  products  as  they  are  sold.    The 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:86)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)
present sales in the Consolidated Statements of Income on a net presentation basis after deducting sales tax. 

 51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unredeemed gift cards and certificates (cid:177) Unredeemed gift cards and certificates represent a liability of the 
Company  related  to  unearned  income  and  are  recorded  at  their  expected  redemption  value.  No  revenue  is 
recognized  in  connection  with  the  point-of-sale  transaction  when  gift  cards  or  gift  certificates  are  sold.    For 
those states that exempt gift cards and certificates from their escheat laws, the Company makes estimates of 
the ultimate un(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:69)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:78)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:74)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)amortizes 
this breakage over the redemption period that other gift cards and certificates historically have been redeemed 
by reducing its liability and recording revenue accordingly.  For those states that do not exempt gift cards and 
certificates from their escheat laws, the Company records breakage in the period that gift cards and certificates 
are remitted to the state and reduces its liability accordingly.  Any amounts remitted to states under escheat or 
(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:90)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)
any amounts that the Company is permitted to retain are recorded as revenue.   

Insurance  (cid:177)  The  Company  self-(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)  and  general 
liability programs.  In 2014 and 2015, the Company purchased (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)on 
claims that exceeded $250, $500 or $1,000 depending on the state in which the claim originated. Beginning in 
2016, the Company purchases (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:7)(cid:21)(cid:24)(cid:19)(cid:15)(cid:3) $750 
or  $1,000  depending  on  the  state  in  which  the  claim  originates.    The  Company  purchases  insurance  for 
individual general liability claims that exceed $500.   

(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:3)
(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:44)(cid:37)(cid:49)(cid:53)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:37)(cid:49)(cid:53)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:3)
are  (cid:69)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:3)
quarter and is adjusted by the actuarially determined losses and actual claims payments for the fourth quarter.  
Additionally, the Company performs limited scope actuarial studies on a quarterly basis to verify and/or modify 
(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:17)(cid:3) The  reserves  and  losses  in  the  actuarial  study  represent  a  range  of  possible 
outcomes within which no given estimate is more likely than any other estimate.  As such, the Company records 
the  losses  at  the  lower  end  of  that  range  and  discounts  them  to  present  value  using  a  risk-free  interest  rate 
based  on  projected  timing  of  payments.  The  Company  also  monitors  actual  claims  development,  including 
incurrence  or  settlement  of  individual  large  claims  during  the  interim  periods  between  actuarial  studies  as 
another means of estimating the adequacy of its reserves.   

(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:83)(cid:3) (cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:73)-insured  and  fully-insured  programs.    Benefits 
for any individual (employee or dependents) in the self-insured program are limited.  The Company records a 
liability  for  the  self-insured  portion  of  its  group  health  program  for  all  unpaid  claims  based  upon  a  loss 
development  analysis  derived  from  actual  group  health  claims  payment  experience.    The  Company  also 
records  a  liability  for  unpaid  prescription  drug  claims  based  on  historical  experience.  The  majority  of  the 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) fully-insured  plans  for  calendar  2013  and  2014  contained  a  retrospective  feature  which  could 
increase or decrease premiums based on actual claims experience.   

Store pre-opening costs (cid:177) Start-up costs of a new store are expensed when incurred, with the exception of 
rent  expense  under  operating  leases,  in  which  the  straight-line  rent  includes  the  pre-opening  period  during 
(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:47)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)on in this Note. 

Leases  (cid:177)  (cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:83)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:3) (cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)
ground  leases  and  office  space  leases  that  are  recorded  as  operating  leases.    The  Company  also  leases  its 
advertising billboards which are recorded as operating leases.  (cid:36)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:77)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)
provide renewal options and some of these options contain rent escalation clauses.  Additionally, some of the 
leases  have  rent  holiday  and  contingent  rent  provisions.    During  rent  holiday  periods,  which  include  the  pre-
opening  period  during  construction,  the  Company  has  possession  of  and  access  to  the  property,  but  is  not 
obligated  to,  and  normally  does  not,  make  rent  payments.    Contingent  rent  is  determined  as  a  percentage  of 
gross  sales  in  excess  of  specified  levels.  The  Company  records  a  contingent  rent  liability  and  corresponding 
rent expense when it is probable sales have been achieved in amounts in excess of the specified levels. 

The liabilities under these leases are recognized on the straight-line basis over the shorter of the useful life, 
with a maximum of 35 years, or the related lease life.  The Company uses a lease life that generally begins on 
the date that the Company becomes legally obligated under the lease, including the rent holiday periods, and 
(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)
the inception of the lease, it is reasonably assured that the Company will exercise those renewal options.  This 
lease period is consistent with the period over which leasehold improvements are amortized.   

 52

 
 
Advertising (cid:177) The Company expenses the costs of producing advertising the first time the advertising takes 

place.  Other advertising costs are expensed as incurred.   

Advertising expense for each of the three years was as follows: 

Advertising expense 

2016 

2015 
$      79,409  $    68,665  $    63,707 

2014 

Share-based compensation (cid:177) (cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)-based compensation consists of nonvested stock and 
performance-based market stock units ((cid:179)(cid:48)(cid:54)(cid:56)(cid:3)(cid:42)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)Share-based compensation is recorded in general and 
administrative  expenses  in  the  Consolidated  Statements  of  Income.    Share-based  compensation  expense  is 
recognized  based  on  the  grant  date  fair  value  and  the  achievement  of  performance  conditions  for  certain 
awards.    The  Company  recognizes  share-based  compensation  expense  on  a  straight-line  basis  over  the 
requisite  service  period(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:71)(cid:15)  or  to  the  date  on  which  retirement 
eligibility is achieved, if shorter.   

Certain  nonvested  stock  awards  and  the  Com(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:48)(cid:54)(cid:56)(cid:3) (cid:42)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)s  contain  performance  conditions.  
Compensation expense for performance-based awards is recognized when it is probable that the performance 
criteria will be met.  If any performance goals are not met, no compensation expense is ultimately recognized 
and, to the extent previously recognized, compensation expense is reversed.   

If a share-based compensation award is modified after the grant date, incremental compensation expense 
is recognized in an amount equal to the excess of the fair value of the modified award over the fair value of the 
original  award  immediately  before  the  modification.    Incremental  compensation  expense  for  vested  awards  is 
recognized  immediately.    For  unvested  awards,  the  sum  of  the  incremental  compensation  expense  and  the 
remaining  unrecognized  compensation  expense  for  the  original  award  on  the  modification  date  is  recognized 
over the modified service period.   

(cid:36)(cid:71)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:73)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)-based 

compensation awards.   

Income  taxes  (cid:177)  (cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:41)(cid:44)(cid:38)(cid:36)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)
paid  on  employee  tip  income  and  other  employer  tax  credits  are  accounted  for  by  the  flow-through  method.  
Deferred  income  taxes  reflect  the  net  tax  effects  of  temporary  differences  between  the  carrying  amounts  of 
assets  and  liabilities  for  financial  reporting  purposes  and  the  amounts  used  for  income  tax  purposes.    The 
Company  recognizes  (or  derecognizes)  a  tax  position  taken  or  expected  to  be  taken  in  a  tax  return  in  the 
financial statements when it is more likely than not (i.e., a likelihood of more than fifty percent) that the position 
would be sustained (or not sustained) upon examination by  tax authorities.  A recognized tax position  is then 
measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate 
settlement.    The  Company  recognizes,  net  of  tax,  interest  and  estimated  penalties  related  to  uncertain  tax 
positions in its provision for income taxes.  See Note 13 for additional information regarding income taxes. 

Comprehensive income (cid:177) Comprehensive income includes net income and the effective unrealized portion 

(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:83)(cid:86)(cid:17) 

Net income per share (cid:177) Basic consolidated net income per share is computed by dividing consolidated net 
income  to  common  shareholders  by  the  weighted  average  number  of  common  shares  outstanding  for  the 
reporting  period.    Diluted  consolidated  net  income  per  share  reflects  the  potential  dilution  that  could  occur  if 
securities, options or  other contracts to  issue common stock were exercised or  converted  into common stock 
and  is  based  upon  the  weighted  average  number  of  common  and  common  equivalent  shares  outstanding 
during the year. Common equivalent shares related to stock options, nonvested stock awards and MSU Grants 
issued  by  the  Company  are  calculated  using  the  treasury  stock method.    Outstanding  employee  and  director 
stock  options,  nonvested  stock  awards  and  MSU  Grants  issued  by  the  Company  represent  the  only  dilutive 
effects  on  diluted  consolidated  net  income  per  share.    See  Note  14  for  additional  information  regarding  net 
income per share. 

 53

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Use of estimates (cid:177) Management of the Company has made certain estimates and assumptions relating to 
the reporting of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the Consolidated 
Financial  Statements  and  the  reported  amounts  of  revenues  and  expenses  during  the  reporting  periods  to 
prepare  these  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  in  conformity  with  GAAP.    Management  believes  that  such 
estimates have been based on reasonable  and supportable  assumptions and that the resulting estimates are 
reasonable for use in the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements.  Actual results, however, could 
differ from those estimates. 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements Adopted 

Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity 

In April 2014, the FASB issued accounting  guidance which changes the criteria for disposals to qualify as 
discontinued  operations  and  requires  new  disclosures  about  disposals  of  both  discontinued  operations  and 
certain  other disposals  that do  not meet the new  definition.  This accounting guidance  was effective for fiscal 
years beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and interim periods within those years on a prospective basis.  
The  adoption  of  this  accounting  guidance  in  the  first  quarter  of  2016  did  not  have  a  significant  impact  on  the 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)consolidated financial position or results of operations. 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted 

Revenue Recognition 

In May 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance  which clarifies the principles for recognizing revenue 
and provides a comprehensive model for revenue recognition.  Revenue recognition should depict the transfer 
of  goods  or  services  to  a  customer  at  an  amount  that  reflects  the  consideration  it  expects  to  receive  in 
exchange  for  those  goods  or  services.    The  guidance  also  requires  additional  disclosures  about  the  nature, 
amount,  timing  and  uncertainty  of  revenue  and  cash  flows  arising  from  customer  contracts.    This  accounting 
guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those years.  
Early application is permitted for fiscal  years beginning after December 15, 2016.  A company may apply this 
accounting  guidance  either  retrospectively  or  using  the  cumulative  effect  transition  method.    The  Company  is 
currently evaluating the impact of adopting this accounting guidance in the first quarter of 2019. 

Debt Issuance Costs 

In April 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance which requires debt issuance costs to be presented in 
the balance sheet as a reduction of the related debt liability rather than as an asset.  This accounting guidance 
is  effective  for  fiscal  years  beginning  after  December  15,  2015,  and  interim  periods  within  those  years  on  a 
retrospective basis.  Early application is permitted.   Since this accounting guidance does not provide guidance 
on debt issuance costs related to revolving debt agreements, this accounting guidance is not expected to have 
(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)
the first quarter of 2017.   

Inventory 

In July 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance which requires companies to measure certain inventory 
at the lower of cost and net realizable value.  This accounting guidance does not apply to inventories measured 
by using either the last-in, first-out method or the retail inventory method.   This accounting guidance is effective 
for  fiscal  years  beginning  after  December  15,  2016,  and  interim  periods  within  those  years  on  a  prospective 
basis.    Early  application  is  permitted.    The  Company  is  currently  evaluating  the  impact  of  adopting  this 
accounting guidance in the first period of 2018.   

 54

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred Taxes 

In  November  2015,  in  order  to  simplify  the  presentation  of  deferred  income  taxes,  the  FASB  issued 
accounting  guidance  which  requires  deferred  tax  liabilities  and  assets  to  be  classified  as  noncurrent  in  the 
balance sheet.  This accounting guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, and 
interim periods within those years.  This accounting guidance may be applied either prospectively to all deferred 
tax  liabilities  and  assets  or  retrospectively  to  all  periods  presented.    Early  application  is  permitted.    The 
Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this accounting guidance in the first quarter of 2018.   

Leases 

In February 2016, the FASB issued accounting guidance which requires the recognition of lease assets and 
lease  liabilities  on  the  balance  sheet  and  disclosure  of  key  information  about  leasing  arrangements.    The 
accounting guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods within 
those  fiscal  years  on  a  modified  retrospective  basis.    Early  adoption  is  permitted.    The  Company  is  currently 
evaluating the impact of adopting this accounting guidance in the first quarter of 2020. 

Recognition of Breakage for Certain Prepaid Stored-Value Products 

In  March  2016,  in  order  to  address  diversity  in  practice  related  to  the  derecognition  of  a  prepaid  stored-
value  product  liability,  the  FASB  issued  accounting  guidance  requiring  breakage  for  prepaid  stored-value 
product  liabilities  to  be  accounted  for  consistent  with  the  breakage  guidance  in  the  revenue  recognition 
(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:74)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85) fiscal  years beginning 
after  December  15,  2017,  and  interim  periods  within  those  years.    This  accounting  guidance  may  be  applied 
either  on  a  modified  retrospective  basis  or  on  a  retrospective  basis.    Early  application  is  permitted.    The 
Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this accounting guidance in the first quarter of 2019. 

Share-Based Payments 

In March 2016, the FASB issued accounting guidance in order to simplify certain aspects of the accounting 
and presentation of share-based payments, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as 
either  equity  or  liabilities  and  classification  on  the  statement  of  cash  flows.    This  accounting  guidance  is 
effective  for  fiscal  periods  beginning  after  December  15,  2016,  and  interim  periods  within  those  years.    This 
guidance  may  be  applied  either  on  a  prospective  basis,  retrospective  basis  or  a  modified  retrospective  basis 
depending  on  the  specific  accounting  topic  covered  in  the  accounting  guidance.    Early  adoption  is  permitted. 
The  Company  is  currently  evaluating  the  impact  of  adopting  this  accounting  guidance  in  the  first  quarter  of 
2018. 

3.  Fair Value Measurements 

Fair value (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)is defined as the price that would be received 
to  sell  an  asset  or  paid  to  transfer  a  liability  in  an  orderly  transaction  between  market  participants  at  the 
measurement date.  In determining fair value, a three level hierarchy for inputs is used.  These levels are: 

(cid:120)  Quoted Prices in Active Markets for I(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)Level 1(cid:180)(cid:12) (cid:177) quoted prices (unadjusted) for an identical 

asset or liability in an active market. 

(cid:120)  (cid:54)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:50)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:50)(cid:69)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:83)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:179)Level  2(cid:180)(cid:12)  (cid:177)  quoted  prices  for  a  similar  asset  or  liability  in  an  active 
market  or  model-derived  valuations  in  which  all  significant  inputs  are  observable  for  substantially  the  full 
term of the asset or liability. 

(cid:120)  (cid:54)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:56)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:69)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:83)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)Level 3(cid:180)(cid:12) (cid:177) unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement of 

the asset or liability. 

 55

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3) July 29, 2016 were as 

follows: 

Cash equivalents* 
Interest rate swap asset (see Note 6) 
Deferred compensation plan assets** 
Total assets at fair value 

Level 1 
$    76,084 
-- 
27,764 
$  103,848  

 Level 2 

 Level 3 

Fair Value  

  $ 

    -- 
                -- 
   -- 
  $               -- 

  $             -- 
   -- 
 -- 
  $              -- 

  $            76,084 
-- 
27,764 
  $          103,848  

Interest rate swap liability (see Note 6) 
Total liabilities at fair value 

$            -- 
$            -- 

  $      22,250 
  $      22,250 

  -- 
  $ 
  $             -- 

  $            22,250 
  $            22,250 

(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3) on a recurring basis at July 31, 2015 were as 

follows: 

Cash equivalents* 
Interest rate swap asset (see Note 6) 
Deferred compensation plan assets** 
Total assets at fair value 

Level 1 
$  191,084 
              -- 
26,947 
$  218,031  

 Level 2 

 Level 3 

Fair Value  

  $ 

    -- 
         3,759 
   -- 
  $        3,759 

  $             -- 
   -- 
 -- 
  $              -- 

  $          191,084 
                 3,759  
26,947 
  $          221,790  

Interest rate swap liability (see Note 6) 
Total liabilities at fair value 

$            -- 
$            -- 

  $        9,821 
  $        9,821 

  -- 
  $ 
  $             -- 

  $              9,821 
  $              9,821 

*Consists of money market fund investments. 
(cid:13)(cid:13)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:53)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:3) (cid:55)(cid:85)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:81)-
qualified savings plan and is included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as other assets (see Note 12). 

(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:82)ney market fund investments and deferred compensation plan assets are measured at 
fair value using quoted market prices.  The fair values (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:83)(cid:3)asset and liabilities 
are determined based on the present value of expected future cash flows.  (cid:54)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)
swap values are based on the LIBOR forward curve, which is observable at commonly quoted intervals for the 
full terms of the swaps, it is considered a Level 2 input.  Nonperformance risk is reflected in determining the fair 
(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:83)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:78)-free  interest  rate,  both  of 
which  are  observable  at  commonly  quoted  intervals  for  the  terms  of  the  swaps.    Thus,  the  adjustment  for 
nonperformance risk is also considered a Level 2 input.   

The  fair  values  of  accounts  receivable  and  accounts  payable  at  July  29,  2016  and  July  31,  2015, 
(cid:68)(cid:83)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:91)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)
rate  debt,  based  on  quoted  market  prices,  which  are  considered  Level  1  inputs,  approximates  its  carrying 
amounts at July 29, 2016 and July 31, 2015.     

4.  Inventories 

Inventories were comprised of the following at: 

Retail 
Restaurant 
Supplies 
Total 

5.  Debt 

July 29, 2016 

July 31, 2015 

$          114,610  $          115,777 
22,212 
15,069 
$          152,308   $          153,058  

21,522 
16,176 

On January 8, 2015, the Company entered into a five-year $750,000 revolving (cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)Revolving 
Credit  (cid:41)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:180)(cid:12).    At  both  July  29,  2016  and  July  31,  2015,  the  Company  had  $400,000  in  outstanding 
borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility.  

 56

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
At  July  29,  2016,  the  Company  had  $11,045  (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)
borrowing  availability  under  the  Revolving  Credit  Facility  (see  Note  15).    At  July  29,  2016,  the  Company  had 
$338,955 in borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility. 

In  accordance  with  the  Revolving  Credit  Facility,  outstanding  borrowings  bear  interes(cid:87)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)
election, either at LIBOR or prime plus a percentage point spread based on certain specified financial ratios.  At 
July 29, 2016 and July 31, 2015(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:83)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)a weighted average 
interest  rates  of  3.10%  and  2.96%,  respectively  (cid:11)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:49)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:25)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)
swaps).   

The  Revolving  Credit  Facility  contains  customary  financial  covenants,  which  include  maintenance  of  a 
maximum  consolidated  total  leverage  ratio  and  a  minimum  consolidated  interest  coverage  ratio.    At  July  29, 
2016 and July 31, 2015, the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants.  

The  Revolving  Credit  Facility  also  imposes  restrictions  on  the  amount  of  dividends  the  Company  is 
permitted to pay and the amount of shares the Company is permitted to repurchase. Under the Revolving Credit 
Facility,  provided  there  is  no  default  existing  and  the  total  of  the  (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)
(cid:38)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:41)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:7)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:19)(cid:15)(cid:19)(cid:19)(cid:19)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:179)cash 
availability(cid:180)(cid:12), the Company may declare and pay cash dividends on shares of its common stock and repurchase 
shares of its common stock (1) in an unlimited amount if at the time such dividend or repurchase is made  the 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:22)(cid:17)00  to  1.00  or  less  and  (2)  in  an  aggregate  amount  not  to 
(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:7)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:19)(cid:15)(cid:19)(cid:19)(cid:19)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:22)(cid:17)(cid:19)(cid:19)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)
1.00 at the time the dividend or repurchase is made; notwithstanding (1) and (2), so long as immediately after 
giving  effect  to  the  payment  of  any  such  dividends,  cash  availability  is  at  least  $100,000,  the  Company  may 
declare and pay cash dividends on shares of its common stock in an aggregate amount not to exceed in any 
fiscal year the product of the aggregate amount of dividends declared in the fourth quarter of the immediately 
preceding fiscal year multiplied by four.   

6.  Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities 

(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:83)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:70)ounterparty 
the difference between fixed and variable interest amounts calculated by reference to an agreed-upon notional 
(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:69)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)
rate swaps are fixed at (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)
spread  at  both  July  29,  2016  and  July  31,  2015  was  1.25%.    (cid:36)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:83)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)
accounted for as cash flow hedges. 

(cid:36)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)rest rate swaps at July 29, 2016 is as follows: 

Trade Date 
March 18, 2013 
April 8, 2013 
April 15, 2013 
April 22, 2013 
April 25, 2013 
June 18, 2014 
June 24, 2014 
July 1, 2014 
January 30, 2015 
January 30, 2015 
January 30, 2015 
January 30, 2015 
January 30, 2015 

Effective Date 

Term  
(in Years) 

 May 3, 2015 
 May 3, 2015 
 May 3, 2015 
 May 3, 2015 
 May 3, 2015 
     May 3, 2015 
 May 3, 2015 
     May 5, 2015 
 May 3, 2019 
 May 3, 2019 
 May 4, 2021 
 May 3, 2019 
 May 4, 2021 

3 
2 
2 
3 
3 
4 
4 
4 
2 
2 
3 
2 
3 

Notional Amount 
  $                 50,000 
                     50,000 
                     50,000 
                     25,000 
                     25,000 
                     80,000 
                     60,000 
                     60,000 
                     80,000 
                     60,000 
                   120,000 
                     60,000 
                     80,000 

Fixed 
Rate 

1.51% 
1.05% 
1.03% 
1.30% 
1.29% 
2.51% 
2.51% 
2.43% 
2.15% 
2.16% 
2.41% 
2.15% 
2.40% 

 57

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The notional amount for the interest rate swap entered into on June 18, 2014 increases by $40,000 each 
May over the four-year term of the interest rate swap until the notional amount reaches $160,000 in May 2018.  
The notional amounts for the interest rate swaps entered into on June 24, 2014 and July 1, 2014 increase by 
$30,000  each  May  over  the  four-year  terms  of  the  interest  rate  swaps  until  the  notional  amounts  each  reach 
$120,000 in May 2018. 

The estimated fair va(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)s were as follows: 

(See Note 3) 
Interest rate swaps 
Interest rate swaps  
Interest rate swaps 
Total liabilities 

Balance Sheet Location 

Other assets 
Current interest rate swap liability 
Long-term interest rate swap liability  

July 29, 2016 
$                 -- 
  $              180  
22,070 
  $         22,250  

July 31, 2015 
$           3,759 
$           1,117  
8,704 
$           9,821  

The  following  table  summarizes  (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)

Balance Sheets at July 29, 2016 and July 31, 2015:   

Gross Asset Amounts 
July 29,  
2016 

July 31, 
2015 
  $      3,878  

  $            -- 

Liability Amount Offset 
July 29,  
2016 

July 31, 
2015 

  Net Asset Amount Presented 

in the Balance Sheets 

July 29,  
2016 

July 31, 
2015 

  $              --  

  $        (119)  

  $              --  

  $      3,759  

(See Note 3) 
Interest rate swaps 

The  following  table  summarizes  (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)

Balance Sheets at July 29, 2016 and July 31, 2015:   

  Net Liability Amount Presented 

(See Note 3) 
Interest rate swaps 

Gross Liability Amounts 
July 31, 
July 29,  
2015 
2016 
  $      9,821  

  $    22,250 

Asset Amount Offset 

in the Balance Sheets 

July 29,  
2016 

  $              --  

July 31, 
2015 
  $              --  

July 29,  
2016 

July 31, 
2015 

  $      22,250  

  $        9,821  

The  estimated  fair  values  (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:83)  assets  and  liabilities  incorporate  the 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:81)-(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:78)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:77)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:81)-performance risk at July 29, 
2016  and  July  31,  2015  resulted  in  reductions  of  $1,035  and  $209,  respectively,  in  the  total  fair  value  of  the 
interest rate swap  asset and liabilities.  The offset to the interest rate swap asset and liabilities is recorded in 
(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:36)(cid:50)(cid:38)(cid:47)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)s,  and  will  be  reclassified  into 
earnings over the term of the underlying debt.  As of July 29, 2016, the estimated pre-tax portion of AOCL that 
is expected to be reclassified into earnings over the  next twelve  months is $3,227.  Cash flows related to  the 
interest rate swaps are included in interest expense and in operating activities.   

The  following  table  summarizes  the  pre-(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)s  on  AOCL  for 

each of the three years: 

Cash flow hedges: 
Interest rate swaps 

Amount of (Loss) Income Recognized in 
AOCL on Derivatives (Effective Portion) 
    2015 

    2016 

2014 

$    (16,188) 

  $        1,641 

  $        3,058 

The  following  table  summarizes  the  changes  in  AOCL,  net  of  tax,  related  to  (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) interest  rate 

swaps for the years ended July 29, 2016, July 31, 2015 and August 1, 2014:   

Beginning AOCL balance  

July 29, 
2016 
$     (3,725) 

July 31, 
2015 
  $     (4,733) 

  August 1, 

2014 

  $     (6,612) 

Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications 
Amounts reclassified from AOCL into earnings 

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax 
Ending AOCL balance 

       (6,683)   
      (3,332) 
     (10,015) 
$   (13,740) 

       5,955   
      (4,947) 
      1,008  
  $     (3,725) 

       6,836   
      (4,957) 
      1,879  
  $     (4,733) 

 58

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table summarizes the pre-(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)s on income for 

each of the three years: 

Location of Loss Reclassified from 
AOCL into Income (Effective Portion) 

Amount of Loss Reclassified from AOCL into 
Income (Effective Portion) 
2015 

2014 

2016 

Cash flow hedges: 
Interest rate swaps 

Interest expense 

$       5,395 

  $       8,052 

  $       8,068 

The  following  table  summarizes  the  amounts  reclassified  out  of  AOCL  related  to  (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) interest 

rate swaps for the years ended July 29, 2016, July 31, 2015 and August 1, 2014:  

Details about AOCL 
Loss on cash flow hedges:   

Interest rate swaps 

Tax benefit 

July 29, 2016 

  July 31, 2015 

  August 1, 2014 

Affected Line Item in 
the Consolidated 
Statement of Income 

$          (5,395) 
 2,063  

 $         (3,332)   

  $          (8,052) 
 3,105  
 $         (4,947) 

  $           (8,068)   

Interest expense 
 3,111     Provision for income taxes 

  $             (4,957)    Net of tax 

Any portion of the fair value of the interest rate swaps determined to be ineffective will be recognized currently 
in earnings.  No ineffectiveness has been recorded in 2016, 2015 and 2014. 

7.  Share Repurchases 

In  2016,  2015  and  2014,  subject  to  a  maximum  amount  as  specified  in  the  table  below  and  the  limits 
imposed by the Revolving Credit Facility and Prior Credit Facility, the Company was authorized to repurchase 
shares at (cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81).   

The following table summarizes our share repurchases for the last three years:  

Maximum aggregate purchase price 
Cost of shares repurchased 
Shares of common stock repurchased 

8. Segment Information 

    2016 
$       25,000 
$       14,653 
     100,000 

    2015 
  $       25,000 
  $               -- 
              -- 

2014 

  $      50,000 
  $      12,473 
120,000 

Cracker Barrel stores represent a single, integrated operation with two related and substantially integrated 
product lines.  The operating expenses of the restaurant and retail product lines of a Cracker Barrel store are 
shared  and  are  indistinguishable  in  many  respects.    Accordingly,  the  Company  manages  its  business  on  the 
(cid:69)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:74)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:3) (cid:36)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:56)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)
States.   

Total revenue was comprised of the following at: 

Restaurant  
Retail 

Total revenue 

9.  Leases 

    2016 

    2015 
$ 2,323,199     $ 2,269,610     $ 2,137,405  
546,272 
$ 2,912,351     $ 2,842,284     $ 2,683,677  

589,152 

572,674 

2014 

As of July 29, 2016, the Company operated 225 stores in leased facilities and also leased certain land, a 

retail distribution center and advertising billboards.   

 59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rent expense under operating leases, including the sale-leaseback transactions discussed below, for each 

of the three years was: 

Year 
2016 
2015 
2014 

   Minimum 
$     74,405 
        72,877  
        71,123  

Contingent 
  $            263 
              252 
              242 

Total 

  $     74,668  
        73,129 
        71,365 

The following is a schedule by year of the future minimum rental payments required under  (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)

operating leases as of July 29, 2016: 

Year 
2017 
2018 
2019 
2020 
2021 
Later years 
Total 

Sale-Leaseback Transactions 

Total 

  $     63,435  
51,523 
47,225 
44,707 
28,680 
472,277 
  $   707,847  

In 2009, the Company completed sale-leaseback transactions involving 15 of its owned stores and its retail 
distribution center.  Under the transactions, the land, buildings and improvements at the locations were sold and 
leased  back  for  terms  of  20  and  15  years,  respectively.    Equipment  was  not  included.    The  leases  include 
specified renewal options for up to 20 additional years.   

The Company leases 65 of its stores pursuant to a sale-leaseback transaction which closed in 2000.  Under 
the transaction, the land, buildings and building improvements at the locations were sold and leased back for a 
term of  21  years.  The leases for these stores include specified renewal options for up to 20 additional  years 
and have certain financial covenants related to fixed charge coverage for the  leased stores.  At July 29, 2016 
and July 31, 2015, the Company was in compliance with these covenants.   

10.  Share-Based Compensation 

Stock Compensation Plans 

(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:37)(cid:82)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:93)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3)
within  its  discretion  and  subject  to  the  direction  of  the  Board  of  Directors,  which  employees  will  be  granted 
awards,  the  number  of  shares  covered  by  any  awards  granted,  and  within  applicable  limits,  the  terms  and 
provisions relating to the exercise and vesting of any awards. 

The  Company  has  one  active  compensation  plan,  the  2010  Omnibus  Incentive  Compensation  Plan  (the 
(cid:179)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:80)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:15) for employees and non-employee directors which authorizes the granting of  nonvested 
stock  awards,  performance-based  MSU  Grants,  stock  options  and  other  types  of  share-based  awards.  The 
Company also has stock options and nonvested stock outstanding under two other compensation plans (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)
(cid:51)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:12) in which no future grants may be made.   

The 2010 Omnibus Plan allows the Committee to grant awards for an aggregate of 1,500,000 shares of the 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78).  However, this share reserve is increased by shares awarded under this and Prior 
Plans  which  are  forfeited,  expired,  settled  for  cash  and  shares  withheld  by  the  Company  in  payment  of  a  tax 
withholding obligation.  Additionally, this share reserve was decreased by shares granted from Prior Plans after 
July 30, 2010 until December 1, 2010.   At July 29, 2016, the number of shares authorized for future issuance 
(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)plan is 1,065,840.   

 60

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table summarizes the number of outstanding awards under each plan at July 29, 2016: 

2010 Omnibus Plan 
Amended and Restated Stock Option Plan 
2002 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan 
Total 

Types of Share-Based Awards 

Nonvested Stock 

  200,909 
2,683 
   10,000 
  213,592 

(cid:49)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)
and vest over 1(cid:177)(cid:22)(cid:3)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)
equal  to  the  (cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:3) (cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3)
nonvested stock awards that do not vest.   

(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:74)-term  performance  plans  which  were  established 
by the Committee (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:3)
the Company achieved certain performance targets. The stock awards under the long-term performance plans 
are calculated or estimated based on achievement of financial performance measures.    

The following table summarizes the performance periods and vesting periods for the (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)nonvested 

stock awards under its long-term performance plans at July 29, 2016: 

Long-(cid:55)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:47)(cid:55)(cid:51)(cid:51)(cid:180)(cid:12) 
2016 LTPP 
2015 LTPP 

Performance Period 
2016 (cid:177) 2017 
2015 (cid:177) 2016 

Vesting Period 
(in Years) 
2 or 3 
2 or 3 

The following table summarizes the shares that have been accrued under the 2016 LTPP and 2015 LTPP 

at July 29, 2016: 

2016 LTPP 
2015 LTPP 

14,550  
74,316  

(cid:36)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) July 29, 2016, and changes during  2016 are 

presented in the following table: 

Nonvested Stock 
Unvested at July 31, 2015 
Granted 
Vested 
Forfeited 
Unvested at July 29, 2016 

Weighted-Average Grant 
Date Fair Value 

Shares 
39,163  $                            95.66 
               149.39  
61,729 
                 139.24 
        (60,455) 
                  --  
            -- 
40,437  $                          112.52 

The  following  table  summarizes  the  total  fair  value  of  nonvested  stock  that  vested  for  each  of  the  three 

years: 

Total fair value of nonvested stock  

2016 

2015 

2014 

$    8,418  $   8,152  $ 17,417 

 61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance-Based Market Stock Units 

The number of MSU Grants that will ultimately be awarded and will vest at the end of the applicable three-year 
performance period for each annual plan is based on total shareholder return, which is defined as the change in the 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:76)ng the performance period.  The number of shares awarded at the 
end of the performance period will vary in direct proportion to a target number of shares set at the beginning of the 
period, up to a maximum of 150% of target, based on the change in the Comp(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)total shareholder 
return over the performance period.  The probability of the actual shares expected to be earned is considered in the 
grant date valuation; therefore, the expense will not be adjusted to reflect the actual units earned.  In addition to a 
service  requirement,  the  vesting  of  the  MSU  Grants  is  also  subject  to  the  achievement  of  a  specified  level  of 
operating  income  during  the  performance  period.    If  this  performance  goal  is  not  met,  no  MSU  Grants  will  be 
awarded and no compensation expense will be recorded.   

The fair value of the MSU Grants is determined using the Monte-Carlo simulation model, which simulates a 
range of possible future stock prices and estimates the probabilities of the potential payouts.  This model uses 
the average prices for the 60-consecutive calendar days beginning 30 days prior to and ending 30 days after 
the  first  business  day  of  the  performance  period.  This  model  also  incorporates  the  following  ranges  of 
assumptions:   

(cid:120)  The  expected  volatility  is  a  blend  of  implied  volatility  based  on  market-traded  options  on  our  stock  and 
historical volatility of our stock over the period commensurate with the three-year performance period.   
(cid:120)  The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury rate assumption commensurate with the three-year 

performance period.   

(cid:120)  The  expected  dividend  yield  is  based  on  our  current  dividend  yield  as  the  best  estimate  of  projected 

dividend yield for periods within the three-year performance period. 

The following assumptions were used in determining the fair value (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:48)SU Grants: 

Dividend yield*** 
Expected volatility 
Risk-free interest rate range 

   July 29, 2016 
-- 
23% - 24% 
0.9% - 1.0% 

Year Ended 
July 31, 2015 
-- 
21% 
1.0% 

  August 1, 2014 
-- 
25% 
0.7% - 0.8% 

***Dividends  accrue  on  the  2014,  2015  and  2016  MSU  Grants.  Dividends  will  be  forfeited  for  any  2014, 

2015 and 2016 MSU Grants that do not vest.   

The following table summarizes the shares that have been accrued under the 2014 MSU Grants, the 2015 

MSU Grants and 2016 MSU Grants at July 29, 2016: 

2014 MSU Grants 
2015 MSU Grants 
2016 MSU Grants 

Stock Options 

Shares 
        37,786  
26,955 
6,865 

Prior to 2012, stock options were granted with an exercise (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)
stock on the grant date; those option awards generally vest at a cumulative rate of 33% per year beginning on 
the  first  anniversary  of  the  grant  date  and  expire  ten  years  from  the  date  of  grant.    No  stock  options  were 
granted in 2014, 2015 or 2016. 

 62

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(cid:36)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) July  29,  2016,  and  changes  during  2016  are 

presented in the following table: 

Fixed Options 
Outstanding at July 31, 2015 
Granted 
Exercised 
Forfeited 
Canceled 
Outstanding at July 29, 2016 
Exercisable 

Weighted- 
Average 
Price 

Weighted-Average 
Remaining 
Contractual Term 

Aggregate 
Intrinsic 
Value 

Shares 

      20,458   $              33.88  
                  -- 
             --    
              35.78  
     (7,775) 
                      --  
             --    
             -- 
                      --  
      12,683   $              32.71 
      12,683   $              32.71  

1.23 
1.23 

$              1,582 
$              1,582 

The  following  table  summarizes  the  total  intrinsic  values  of  options  exercised  during  each  of  the  three 

years: 

2014 
Total intrinsic values of options exercised* 
$     169 
*The  intrinsic  value  for  stock  options  is  defined  as  the  difference  between  the  current  market  value  and  the 
grant price.   

2016 
$      917 

2015 
$  4,652 

Compensation Expense 

The following table highlights the components of share-based compensation expense for each of the three 

years: 

Nonvested stock awards 
MSU Grants 

Total compensation expense 

      2016 
  2014 
      2015 
$    10,277  $  13,243  $    5,762 
     2,162 
     2,967 
$    13,202  $  16,210  $    7,924  

2,925 

The following table highlights the total unrecognized compensation expense related to nonvested stock and 
MSU Grants and the weighted-average periods over which the expense is expected to be recognized as of July 
29, 2016: 

Total unrecognized compensation  
Weighted-average period in years 

Nonvested 
Stock 

MSU 
Grants 

$      1,521  $    2,958 
       1.66  
          2.48  

The  following  table  highlights  the  total  income  tax  benefit  recognized  in  the  Consolidated  Statements  of 

Income for each of the three years: 

Total income tax benefit 

  2014 
      2015 
      2016 
$      3,819  $    5,056  $    2,438 

During 2016, the Company issued 80,379 shares of its common stock resulting from the vesting of share-
based compensation awards and stock option exercises.  Related tax withholding payments on certain share-
based compensation awards exceeded proceeds received from the exercise of stock options which resulted in 
(cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3) of  $5,779.    The  excess  tax  benefit  realized  upon  exercise  of  share-
based compensation awards was $2,626.   

 63

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
11. Shareholder Rights Plan 

On April 9, 2015(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:82)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)tors declared a dividend of one preferred share purchase 
(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:53)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:87)(cid:180))  for  each  outstanding  share  of  common  stock,  par  value  $0.01  per  share,  and  adopted  a 
shareholder rights plan, as set forth in the Rights Agreement dated as of April 9, 2015 (cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:53)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:15)(cid:3)
by  and  between  the  Company  and  American  Stock  Transfer  &  Trust  Company,  LLC,  as  rights  agent.    The 
dividend was payable on April 20, 2015 to the shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 20, 
2015.  The Rights Agr(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:21)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)
(cid:179)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:21)(cid:3) (cid:51)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:83)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:21)(cid:3) (cid:51)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)
business on April 9, 2015.  The 2012 Plan and the preferred share purchase rights issued thereunder expired 
by  their  own  terms  and  shareholders  of  the  Company  were  not  entitled  to  any  payment  as  a  result  of  the 
expiration of the 2012 Plan. 

The Rights  

The  Rights  initially  trade  with,  and  are  inseparable  from,  the  Com(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:53)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)
evidenced  only  by  the  balances  indicated  in  the  book-entry  account  system  of  the  transfer  agent  for  the 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)
common stock. New Rights will accompany any new shares of common stock the Company issues after  April 
20, 2015 until the earlier of the Distribution Date, redemption of the Rights by the Board of Directors or the final 
expiration date of the Rights Agreement, each as described below.  

Exercise Price 

Each Right  will allow its holder to  purchase from the Company one one-hundredth of a share of Series A 
Junior Participating Preferred (cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:7)600.00, once the Rights become exercisable. This 
portion of a Preferred Share will give the shareholder approximately the same dividend and liquidation rights as 
would one share of common stock.  Prior to exercise, the Right does not give its holder any dividend, voting, or 
liquidation rights.  

Exercisability 

The Rights will not be exercisable until 10 days after the public announcement that a person or group has 
(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:36)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:69)(cid:87)(cid:68)ining beneficial ownership of 20(cid:8)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)utstanding 
common stock.   

Shares held by affiliates and associates of an Acquiring Person, and Notional Common Shares (as defined 
in the Rights Agreement) held by counterparties to a Derivatives Contract (as defined in the Rights Agreement) 
with an Acquiring Person, will be deemed to be beneficially owned by the Acquiring Person. Certain synthetic 
interests  in  securities  created  by  derivative  positions  (cid:177)  whether  or  not  such  interests  are  considered  to  be 
ownership of the underlying common stock or are reportable for purposes of Regulation 13D of the Securities 
Exchange Act (cid:177) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:83)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3)
equivalent to the economic exposure created by the derivative. 

The  date  when  the  Rights  (cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:39)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:17)(cid:180)(cid:3) (cid:3) Until  the  Distribution  Date,  the  
common stock certificates will evidence the Rights, and any transfer of shares of common stock will constitute a 
transfer  of  Rights.    After  that  date,  the  Rights  will  separate  from  the  common  stock  and  will  be  evidenced  by 
book-entry credits or by Rights certificates that the Company will mail to all eligible holders of common stock.  
Any Rights held by an Acquiring Person will be void and may not be exercised.  

At July 29, 2016, none of the Rights were exercisable. 

 64

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consequences of a Person or Group Becoming an Acquiring Person 

If  a  person  or  group  becomes  an  Acquiring  Person,  after  the  Distribution  Date,  each  Right  will  generally 
entitle the holder, except the Acquiring Person or any associate or affiliate thereof, to acquire, for the exercise 
price  of  $600.00  per  Right  (subject  to  adjustment  as  provided  in  the  Rights  Agreement),  shares  of  the 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:54)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:12)(cid:3) (cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:68)  market  value  equal  to 
(cid:87)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:87)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:81)-current exercise price. In addition, if, the Company is later acquired in a merger or similar 
transaction after the Distribution Date, each Right will generally entitle the holder, except the Acquiring Person 
or  any  associate  or  affiliate  thereof,  to  acquire,  for  the  exercise  price  of  $600.00  per  Right  (subject  to 
adjustment  as  provided  in  the  Rights  Agreement),  shares  of  the  acquiring  corporation  having  a  market  value 
(cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:87)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:81)-current exercise price. 

Preferred Share Provisions 

Each one one-hundredth of a Preferred Share, if issued:  

(cid:120)  will not be redeemable. 
(cid:120)  will  entitle  holders  to  quarterly  dividend  payments  of  $0.01  per  share,  or  an  amount  equal  to  the 

dividend paid on one share of common stock, whichever is greater. 

(cid:120)  will entitle holders upon liquidation either to receive $1.00 per share or an amount equal to the payment 

made on one share of common stock, whichever is greater. 
(cid:120)  will have the same voting power as one share of common stock. 
(cid:120) 

if  shares  of  (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)  common  stock  are  exchanged  via  merger,  consolidation,  or  a  similar 
transaction,  will  entitle  holders  to  a  per  share  payment  equal  to  the  payment  made  on  one  share  of 
common stock. 

The value of one one-hundredth of a Preferred Share will generally approximate the value of one share of 

common stock.  

Redemption 

The Board of Directors may redeem the Rights for $0.01 per Right at any time before any person or group 
becomes an Acquiring Person.  If the Board of Directors redeems any Rights, it must redeem all of the Rights.  
Once the Rights are redeemed, the only right of the holders of Rights will be to receive the redemption price of 
$0.01 per Right.  The redemption price will be adjusted if the Company has a stock split or stock dividends of its 
common stock. 

Qualifying Offer Provision 

The Rights would also not interfere with all-cash, fully financed tender offers for all shares of common stock 
that remain open for a minimum of 60 business days, are subject to a minimum condition of a majority of the 
outstanding shares and provide for a 20-(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:69)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:71)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:73)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)
(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:92)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:92)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:82)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:3)
of  Directors  has  not  redeemed  the  Rights  prior  to  the  consummation  of  such  offer,  the  consummation  of  the 
qualifying offer shall not cause the offeror or its affiliates or associates to become an Acquiring Person, and the 
Rights will immediately expire upon consummation of the qualifying offer. 

Exchange 

After a person or group becomes an Acquiring Person, but before an Acquiring Person owns 50% or more 
of (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86) outstanding common stock, the Board of Directors may extinguish the Rights by exchanging 
one share  of common stock or an equivalent security for each Right, other than Rights held by the  Acquiring 
Person. 

 65

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Anti-Dilution Provisions 

The  Board  of  Directors  may  adjust  the  purchase  price  of  the  Preferred  Shares,  the  number  of  Preferred 
Shares issuable and the number of outstanding Rights to prevent dilution that may occur from a stock dividend, 
a stock split, a reclassification of the Preferred Shares or common stock.  No adjustments to the Exercise Price 
of less than 1% will be made.   

Amendments 

The terms of the Rights Agreement may be amended by the Board of Directors without the consent of the 
holders of the Rights.  After a person or group becomes an Acquiring Person,  the Board of Directors may not 
amend the agreement in a way that adversely affects holders of the Rights. 

Expiration 

The Rights will expire on April 9, 2018.  

12.  Employee Savings Plans 

(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:11)(cid:179)401(k)  Savings  Plan(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)
salaried and hourly employees who have completed ninety days of service and have attained the age of twenty-
one.  This plan allows eligible employees to defer receipt of up to 50% of their compensation, as defined in the 
plan.  The Company also sponsors a non-(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:11)(cid:179)Non-Qualified Savings 
Plan(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:75)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)This plan allows eligible employees to 
defer  receipt  of  up  to  50%  of  their  base  compensation  and  100%  of  their  eligible  bonuses,  as  defined  in  the 
plan.   

Contributions under both plans (cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)
Such  contributions,  including  the  Company(cid:182)(cid:86)  matching  contributions  described  below,  may  not  be  invested  in 
(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:3)2016, 2015 and 2014, the Company matched 25% of employee contributions 
for each participant in either plan (cid:88)(cid:83)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:25)(cid:8)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3)
vest  immediately  while  Company  contributions  vest  20%  annually  beginning  on  the  first  anniversary  of  a 
contribution date and are vested 100% on the fifth anniversary of such contribution date.   

At  the  inception  of  the  Non-Qualified  Savings  Plan,  the  Company  established  a  Rabbi  Trust  to  fund  the 
(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) obligations.    The  market  value  of  the  trust  assets  for  the  Non-Qualified  Savings  Plan  of  $27,764  is 
included  in  other  assets  and  the  related  liability  to  the  participants  of  $27,764  is  included  in  other  long-term 
obligations  in  the  Consolidated  Balance  Sheets.    Company  contributions  under  both  plans  are  recorded  as 
either labor and other related expenses or general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements 
of Income.  

(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:93)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:29) 

401(k) Savings Plan 
Non-Qualified Savings Plan 

    2016 

    2015 

2014 

$       2,528    

296 

$       2,364     $       2,167  
253 

234 

 66

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
13.  Income Taxes 

The components of the provision for income taxes for each of the three years were as follows: 

Current: 

Federal 
State 
Deferred: 

Federal 
State 

Total provision for income taxes 

      2016 

      2015 

  2014 

$    62,054   $  71,386  $  53,713 
    4,597 
     6,050 

6,447 

       12,477         (6,178)       (2,863) 
        (3,858)
     3,274 
$    77,120   $   74,298  $  58,721 

3,040 

A reconciliation of the (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)provision for income taxes and income taxes based on the statutory U.S. 

federal rate of 35% was as follows: 

Provision computed at federal statutory income tax rate 
State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit 
Employer tax credits for FICA taxes paid on employee tip income 
Other employer tax credits 
Other-net 
Total provision for income taxes 

1,427 

      2016 
  2014 
      2015 
$    93,247   $  83,370  $  66,797 
    5,029 
     6,378 
     (9,962) 
     (11,048)     (10,681) 
     (3,781) 
       (7,326)       (5,058) 
           820  
         638 
         289 
$    77,120   $  74,298  $  58,721 

(cid:54)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:29) 

Deferred tax assets: 

Compensation and employee benefits 
Deferred rent 
Accrued liabilities 
Insurance reserves 
Inventory 
Other 

Deferred tax assets 

Deferred tax liabilities: 

Property and equipment  
Inventory 
Other 

Deferred tax liabilities 

Net deferred tax liability 

July 29, 2016 

July 31, 2015 

$            13,937 
17,183 
12,466 
11,444 
4,368 
8,718 
$            68,116 

$            13,721 
16,022 
16,869 
12,074 
4,525 
2,606 
$            65,817 

$            97,695 
9,803 
12,024 
119,522 
$            51,406 

$            88,651 
11,568 
9,534 
109,753 
$            43,936 

 67

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The  Company  believes  that  adequate  amounts  of  tax,  interest  and  penalties  have  been  provided  for 
potential tax uncertainties; these amounts are included in other long-term liabilities in the Consolidated Balance 
Sheets.    As  of  July  29,  2016  and  July  31,  2015(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86), 
exclusive  of  interest  and  penalties,  was  $21,899  and  $25,507,  respectively.    Summarized  below  is  a  tabular 
(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:74)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3)
positions exclusive of interest and penalties: 

Balance at beginning of year 
Tax positions related to the current year: 

Additions 
Reductions 

Tax positions related to the prior year: 

Additions 
Reductions 

Settlements 
Expiration of statute of limitations 
Balance at end of year 

July 29, 2016 

August 1, 2014 
July 31, 2015 
$             25,507  $            22,832  $             20,972 

4,860 
-- 

3,994 
-- 

3,989 
-- 

1,400 
118 
2,186 
               (1,630) 
                (227) 
              (6,896) 
  (755) 
                (204) 
               (2,324) 
                (1,434) 
               (1,144) 
               (1,006) 
$             21,899  $              25,507  $              22,832 

If  the  Company  were  to  prevail  on  all  uncertain  tax  positions,  the  reversal  of  this  accrual  would  be  a  tax 
benefit to the Company and impact the effective tax rate.  The following table highlights the amount of uncertain 
tax  positions,  exclusive  of  interest  and  penalties,  which,  if  recognized,  would  affect  the  effective  tax  rate  for 
each of the three years: 

Uncertain tax positions 

      2016 
  2014 
      2015 
$    14,234  $  16,579  $  14,840 

The Company  had  $5,497, $9,754 and $8,559 in interest and penalties accrued as of  July 29, 2016, July 

31, 2015, and August 1, 2014, respectively. 

The Company recognized  accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits of $(4,256), 
$1,194  and  $691  in  its  provision  for  income  taxes  on  July  29,  2016,  July  31,  2015  and  August  1,  2014, 
respectively.  (cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:24)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:25)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)
and audit settlements in 2016.  

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3) (cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:69)(cid:77)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)
examination by the relevant taxing authorities.  Based on the outcome of these examinations or as a result of 
the  expiration  of  the  statutes  of  limitations  for  specific  taxing  jurisdictions,  it  is  reasonably  possible  that  the 
related uncertain tax positions taken regarding previously filed tax returns could decrease from those recorded 
(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:91)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)tements at July 29, 2016 by approximately 
$2,000  to  $3,000  within  the  next  twelve  months.    At  July  29,  2016,  the  Company  was  subject  to  income  tax 
examinations for its U.S. federal income taxes after  2012 and for state and local income taxes generally  after 
2012. 

14.  Net Income Per Share and Weighted Average Shares 

The following table reconciles the components of diluted earnings per share computations: 

Net income per share numerator 

Net income per share denominator: 

Basic weighted average shares outstanding 
Add potential dilution: 

2016 
$   189,299 

2015 

2014 

  $   163,903 

  $   132,128 

23,945,041 

23,918,368 

23,817,768 

Stock options, nonvested stock awards and MSU Grants 

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 

129,232 
24,074,273 

130,556 
24,048,924 

148,247 
23,966,015 

 68

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
15.  Commitments and Contingencies 

The  Company  and  its  subsidiaries  are  party  to  various  legal  and  regulatory  proceedings  and  claims 
incidental  to  their  business  in  the  ordinary  course.    In  the  opinion  of  management,  based  upon  information 
currently  available,  the  ultimate  liability  with  respect  to  these  proceedings  and  claims  will  not  materially  affect 
(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:17) 

The  Company  maintains  insurance  coverage  for  various  aspects  of  its  business  and  operations.    The 
Company  has  elected,  however,  to  retain  all  or  a  portion  of  losses  that  occur  through  the  use  of  various 
deductibles,  limits  and  retentions  under  its  insurance  programs.    This  situation  may  subject  the  Company  to 
some  future  liability  for  which  it  is  only  partially  insured,  or  completely  uninsured.    The  Company  intends  to 
mitigate any such future liability by continuing to exercise prudent business judgment in negotiating the terms 
and conditions of its contracts.  See Note 2 for a further discussion of insurance and insurance reserves. 

Related to its insurance coverage, the Company is contingently liable pursuant to standby letters of credit 
as credit guarantees to certain insurers.  As of  July 29, 2016, the Company  had $11,045 of standby letters of 
(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:78)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:182)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)
(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)volving Credit facility (see 
Note 5).   

As of July 29, 2016, the Company is secondarily liable for lease payments associated with two properties.  
The  Company  is  not  aware  of  any  non-performance  under  these  lease  arrangements  that  would  result  in  the 
Company having to perform in accordance with the terms of these guarantees, and therefore, no provision has 
been recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for amounts to be paid in case of non-performance by the 
third party by the primary obligor under such lease agreements. 

The Company enters into certain indemnification agreements in favor of third parties in the ordinary course 
of business.  At July 31, 2015, the Company recorded a liability related to legal costs which were subsequently 
settled  and  paid  in  2016.    The  Company  believes  that  the  (cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)
consolidated  results  of  operations  and  financial  position  and  that  the  probability  of  incurring  an  actual  liability 
under other indemnification agreements is sufficiently remote so that no additional liability has been recorded in 
the Consolidated Balance Sheet.   

16. Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) 

Quarterly financial data for 2016 and 2015 are summarized as follows: 

1st Quarter 

2nd Quarter  3rd Quarter 

4th Quarter 

2016 
Total revenue 
Store operating income 
Income before income taxes 
Net income 
Net income per share (cid:177) basic 
Net income per share (cid:177) diluted 
2015 
Total revenue 
Store operating income 
Income before income taxes 
Net income 
Net income per share (cid:177) basic 
Net income per share (cid:177) diluted 

99,627 
61,764 
40,865 

$   702,629   $   764,002   $   700,136   $       745,584  
114,375 
74,107 
51,023 
$         1.71   $         2.02   $         2.05   $             2.13  
$         1.70   $         2.01   $         2.04   $             2.12  

103,419 
63,592 
49,169 

106,032 
66,956 
48,242 

88,634 
51,018 
34,024 

$   683,428   $   755,966   $   683,705   $       719,185  
111,332 
69,199 
47,399 
$         1.43   $         1.97   $         1.48   $             1.98  
$         1.42   $         1.96   $         1.47   $             1.97  

108,411 
66,537 
47,163 

94,047 
51,447 
35,317 

ITEM  9.  CHANGES  IN  AND  DISAGREEMENTS  WITH  ACCOUNTANTS  ON  ACCOUNTING  AND  FINANCIAL 
DISCLOSURE 

None. 

 69

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 

Our  management,  with  the  participation  of  our  principal  executive  and  financial  officers,  including  the  Chief 
Executive  Officer  and  the  Chief  Financial  Officer,  evaluated  the  effectiveness  of  our  disclosure  controls  and 
procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act) as of the end of 
the  period  covered  by  this  report.    Based  upon  this  evaluation,  our  Chief  Executive  Officer  and  Chief  Financial 
Officer each concluded that, as of July 29, 2016, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective. 

There have been no changes (including corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material 
weaknesses) during the quarter ended July 29, 2016 in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in 
Exchange  Act  Rule  13a-15(f))  that  have  materially  affected,  or  are  reasonably  likely  to  materially  affect,  our 
internal control over financial reporting. 

(cid:48)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)Control over Financial Reporting 

We  are  responsible  for  establishing  and  maintaining  adequate  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  (as 
defined  in  Rules  13a-15(f)  and  15d-15(f)  promulgated  under  the  Exchange  Act).    We  maintain  a  system  of 
internal controls that is designed to provide reasonable assurance in a cost-effective manner as to the fair and 
reliable  preparation  and  presentation  of  the  consolidated  financial  statements,  as  well  as  to  safeguard  assets 
from unauthorized use or disposition. 

Our control environment is the foundation for our system of internal control over financial reporting and is 
embodied  in  our  Corporate  Governance  Guidelines,  our  Financial  Code  of  Ethics,  and  our  Code  of  Business 
Conduct  and  Ethics,  all  of  which  may  be  viewed  on  our  website.    They  set  the  tone  for  our  organization  and 
include factors such as integrity and ethical values.  Our internal control over financial reporting is supported by 
formal  policies  and  procedures,  which  are  reviewed,  modified  and  improved  as  changes  occur  in  business 
conditions and operations.  Neither our disclosure controls and procedures nor our internal controls, however, 
can or will prevent all errors and all fraud.  A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can 
provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met.  Further, the 
design of a control system must reflect the benefits of controls relative to their costs.  Because of the inherent 
limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues 
and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. 

We conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the 
framework  in  Internal  Control—Integrated  Framework  (2013)  issued  by  the  Committee  of  Sponsoring 
Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  This evaluation included review of the documentation of controls, 
evaluation  of  the  design  effectiveness  of  controls,  testing  of  the  operating  effectiveness  of  controls  and  a 
conclusion based on this evaluation.  We have concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was 
effective as of July 29, 2016, based on these criteria. 

In  addition,  Deloitte  &  Touche  LLP,  an  independent  registered  public  accounting  firm,  has  issued  an 

attestation report on our internal control over financial reporting, which is included herein. 

/s/Sandra B. Cochran 
Sandra B. Cochran 
President and Chief Executive Officer 

/s/Jill M. Golder 
Jill M. Golder 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 

 70

 
 
 
 
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM 

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. 
Lebanon, Tennessee 

We have audited the  internal control over financial reporting of Cracker Barrel Old Country  Store, Inc. and  its 
subsidiaries (the (cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)July 29, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated 
Framework  (2013)  issued  by  the  Committee  of  Sponsoring  Organizations  of  the  Treadway  Commission.  The 
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)
its  assessment  of  the  effectiveness  of  internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  included  in  the  accompanying 
(cid:48)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)
(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:17) 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board 
(United  States).  Those  standards  require  that  we  plan  and  perform  the  audit  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance 
about  whether  effective  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  was  maintained  in  all  material  respects.  Our 
audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a 
material  weakness  exists,  testing  and  evaluating  the  design  and  operating  effectiveness  of  internal  control 
based  on  the  assessed  risk,  and  performing  other  procedures  as  we  considered  necessary  in  the 
circumstances.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

(cid:36)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:86)upervision of, the 
(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)
(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:82)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)
assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external 
(cid:83)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:36)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)
financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in 
reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; 
(2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial 
statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of 
the  company  are  being  made  only  in  accordance  with  authorizations  of  management  and  directors  of  the 
company;  and  (3) provide  reasonable  assurance  regarding  prevention  or  timely  detection  of  unauthorized 
(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)
statements. 

Because  of  the  inherent  limitations  of  internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  including  the  possibility  of 
collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be 
prevented or detected on a timely basis.  Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal 
control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate 
because  of  changes  in  conditions,  or  that  the  degree  of  compliance  with  the  policies  or  procedures  may 
deteriorate. 

In  our  opinion,  the  Company  maintained,  in  all  material  respects,  effective  internal  control  over  financial 
reporting  as  of  July  29,  2016,  based  on  the  criteria  established  in  Internal  Control—Integrated  Framework 
(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. 

We  have  also  audited,  in  accordance  with  the  standards  of  the  Public  Company  Accounting  Oversight  Board 
(United  States),  the  consolidated  financial  statements  of  the  Company  as  of  and  for  the  year  ended  July  29, 
2016,  and  our  report  dated  September  26,  2016  expressed  an  unqualified  opinion  on  those  consolidated 
financial statements. 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP 

Nashville, Tennessee 
September 26, 2016 

 71

 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION 

None 

PART III 

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 

The information required by this Item with respect to directors of the Company is incorporated  herein by 
this  reference  to  the  following  sections  of  the  2016  (cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:91)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:29)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:37)(cid:82)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:180)(cid:3)
(cid:179)Proposal  1:  Election  of  Directors,(cid:180)  (cid:179)(cid:54)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:20)(cid:25)(cid:11)(cid:68)(cid:12)(cid:3) (cid:37)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:50)(cid:90)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:83)(cid:3) (cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:180)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)
Relationships  and  Related  Transactions(cid:178)Code  of  Ethics(cid:17)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:84)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:44)(cid:87)(cid:72)m  with  respect  to 
executive  officers  of  the  Company  is  set  forth  in  Part  I  of  this  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K  under  the  heading 
(cid:179)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:74)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87).(cid:180) 

ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by this reference to the following sections of 
the 2016 (cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:91)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:29)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:37)(cid:82)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:86)—Compensation 
of Directors.(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)the section of the 2016 Proxy Statement entitled 
(cid:179)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:180)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:73)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:180)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:179)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:180)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)
purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act. 

ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED 
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS 

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by this reference to the sections entitled (cid:179)Stock 
Ownership  of  Certain  Beneficial  Owners  and  Management(cid:180)  (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:179)Equity  Compensation  Plan  Information(cid:180)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)
2016 Proxy Statement. 

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE 

The  information  required  by  this  Item  is  incorporated  herein  by  this  reference  to  the  sections  entitled 

(cid:5)(cid:38)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:83)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:180) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:179)Director Independence(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)2016 Proxy Statement. 

ITEM 14.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES 

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein (cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:41)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)
(cid:51)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:36)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)2016 Proxy Statement.  No other portion of the section of the 
2016 (cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:91)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:179)(cid:36)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:180)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)
into this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

ITEM 15.  EXHIBITS, AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES 

(a) 

List of documents filed as part of this report: 

PART IV 

1. 

2. 

3. 

All financial statements (cid:177) see Item 8. 

All schedules have been omitted since they are either not required or not applicable, or 
the required information is included. 

The  exhibits  listed  in  the  accompanying  Index  to  Exhibits  immediately  following  the 
signature page to this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

 72

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly 
caused  this  report  to  be  signed  on  its  behalf  by  the  undersigned,  thereunto  duly  authorized  on  this  26th  day  of 
September, 2016. 

SIGNATURES 

  CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC. 

By: 

/s/Sandra B. Cochran 
Sandra B. Cochran,  
President and Chief Executive Officer 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the 
following persons on behalf of the registrant in the capacities on this 26th day of September, 2016. 

Name 

Title 

/s/Sandra B. Cochran 
Sandra B. Cochran 

/s/Jill M. Golder 
Jill M. Golder 

/s/Jeffrey M. Wilson 
Jeffrey M. Wilson 

/s/Thomas H. Barr 
Thomas H. Barr 

/s/James W. Bradford 
James W. Bradford 

/s/Glenn A. Davenport 
Glenn A. Davenport 

/s/Richard J. Dobkin 
Richard J. Dobkin 

/s/Norman E. Johnson 
Norman E. Johnson 

/s/William W. McCarten 
William W. McCarten 

/s/Coleman H. Peterson 
Coleman H. Peterson 

/s/Andrea M. Weiss 
Andrea M. Weiss 

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director 

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) 

Vice President, Corporate Controller (Principal Accounting Officer) 

Director 

Director and Chairman of the Board 

Director 

Director 

Director 

Director 

Director 

Director 

 73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit 

INDEX TO EXHIBITS 

3(I), 4(a) 

Amended and Restated Charter of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (1) 

3(II), 4(b) 

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (2) 

4(c), 10(a) 

Credit Agreement, dated as of January 8, 2015, among Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., 
the  Subsidiary  Guarantors  named  therein,  the  Lenders  party  thereto,  and  Wells  Fargo  Bank, 
National Association as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent (3) 

4(d) 

10(b) 

10(c) 

10(d) 

10(e) 

10(f) 

10(g) 

10(h) 

10(i) 

10(j) 

10(k) 

10(l) 

10(m) 

10(n) 

10(o) 

Rights Agreement, dated as of April 9, 2015, between Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. and 
American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, as rights agent (4) 

Form  of  Stock  Option  Award  under  the  CBRL  Group,  Inc.  2002  Omnibus  Incentive 
Compensation Plan(cid:130) (5) 

Master  Lease,  dated  July  31,  2000,  between  Country  Stores  Property  I,  LLC,  as  Lessor,  and 
Cracker  Barrel  Old  Country  Store,  Inc.,  as  Lessee, for lease  of  21  Cracker  Barrel  Old  Country 
Store® sites (6) 

Master  Lease,  dated  July  31,  2000,  between  Country  Stores  Property  I,  LLC,  as  Lessor,  and 
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., as Lessee, for lease of nine Cracker Barrel Old Country 
Store® sites* 

Master  Lease,  dated  July  31,  2000,  between  Country  Stores  Property  II,  LLC,  as  Lessor,  and 
Cracker  Barrel  Old  Country  Store,  Inc.,  as  Lessee, for lease  of  23  Cracker  Barrel  Old  Country 
Store® sites* 

Master  Lease,  dated  July  31,  2000,  between  Country  Stores  Property  III,  LLC,  as  Lessor,  and 
Cracker  Barrel  Old  Country  Store,  Inc.,  as  Lessee, for lease  of  12  Cracker  Barrel  Old  Country 
Store® sites* 

Cracker  Barrel  Old  Country  Store,  Inc.  Amended  and  Restated  Stock  Option  Plan  (as 
amended to date)(cid:130) (7) 

Cracker  Barrel  Old  Country  Store,  Inc.  Corporate  Policy(cid:178)Severance  Benefits  Policy  (as 
amended to date)(cid:130) (8) 

Cracker  Barrel  Old  Country  Store,  Inc.  2002  Omnibus  Incentive  Compensation  Plan  (as 
amended to date)(cid:130) (9) 

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. 2010 Omnibus Stock and Incentive Plan(cid:130) (10) 

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. Form of Performance-Based Stock Unit Award(cid:130) (11) 

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. Non-Qualified Savings Plan (as amended to date)(cid:130) (12) 

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan(cid:130) (13) 

Amendment to Deferred Compensation Plan(cid:130)(14) 

Executive  Employment  Agreement  with  Sandra  B.  Cochran,  dated  as  of  September  26,  2013(cid:130) 
(15) 

10(p) 

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. Form of Restricted Stock Award Notice(cid:130)(cid:3)(16)  

 74

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10(q) 

10(r) 

10(s) 

10(t) 

10(u) 

10(v) 

10(w) 

10(x) 

10(y) 

10(z) 

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. and Subsidiaries FY 2014 Long-Term Incentive Program(cid:130)(cid:3)
(17)  

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. and Subsidiaries FY 2015 Long-Term Incentive Program(cid:130)(cid:3)
(18)  

Form  of  Change  in  Control  and  Severance  Agreement  between  Cracker  Barrel  Old  Country 
Store, Inc. and certain of its named officers(cid:130) (19)   

Change in Control and Severance Agreement with Edward A. Greene, dated May 22, 2015(cid:130)**  

Change  in  Control  and  Severance  Agreement  with  Christopher  A.  Ciavarra,  dated  May  22, 
2015(cid:130)** 

Change in Control and Severance Agreement with Lawrence E. Hyatt, dated May 22, 2015(cid:130)**  

Change  in  Control  and  Severance  Agreement  with  Nicholas  V.  Flanagan,  dated  May  22, 
2015(cid:130)**  

Retirement Agreement with Lawrence E. Hyatt, dated as of September 25, 2015(cid:130) (20) 

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. and Subsidiaries FY 2016 Annual Bonus Plan(cid:130)(cid:3)(21) 

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. and Subsidiaries FY 2016 Long-Term Incentive Program(cid:130)(cid:3)
(22) 

10(aa) 

Change in Control and Severance Agreement with Jill Golder, dated April 28, 2016(cid:130) (23) 

21 

23 

31.1 

31.2 

32.1 

32.2 

Subsidiaries of the Registrant (filed herewith) 

Consent  of  Independent  Registered  Public  Accounting  Firm  -  Deloitte  &  Touche  LLP  (filed 
herewith) 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 
2002 (filed herewith) 

Certification  of  Chief  Financial  Officer  pursuant  to  Section  302  of  the  Sarbanes-Oxley  Act  of 
2002 (filed herewith) 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 
2002 (filed herewith) 

Certification  of  Chief  Financial  Officer  pursuant  to  Section  906  of  the  Sarbanes-Oxley  Act  of 
2002 (filed herewith) 

101.INS 

XBRL Instance Document (filed herewith) 

101.SCH 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema (filed herewith) 

101.CAL 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase (filed herewith) 

101.LAB 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase (filed herewith) 

101.PRE 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase (filed herewith) 

101.DEF 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase (filed herewith) 

 75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

(4) 

(5) 

(6) 

(7) 

(8) 

(9) 

(10) 

(11) 

(12) 

(13) 

(14) 

(15) 

(16) 

(17) 

(18) 

(19) 

(20) 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on April 10, 2012.   

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:27)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on February 24, 2012. 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:17)(cid:20)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:27)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on January 9, 2015. 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)Current Report on Form 8-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on April 9, 2015. 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:11)(cid:79)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act for the fiscal year ended July 29, 2005 (Commission File No. 000-25225). 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(r) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)-K filed under 
the Exchange Act for the fiscal year ended July 28, 2000 (Commission File No. 000-25225). 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:17)(cid:20)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:52)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)-Q filed under 
the Exchange Act for the quarterly period ended January 30, 2009 (Commission File No. 000-25225). 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the (cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:52)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)-Q filed under 
the Exchange Act for the quarterly period ended May 1, 2009 (Commission File No. 000-25225). 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:17)(cid:21)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:52)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)-Q filed under 
the Exchange Act for the quarterly period ended January 29, 2010 (Commission File No. 000-25225). 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:17)(cid:20)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:27)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on December 7, 2010 (Commission File No. 000-25225). 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:17)(cid:21)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:27)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on December 7, 2010 (Commission File No. 000-25225). 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:11)(cid:68)(cid:68)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)-K filed under 
the Exchange Act for the fiscal year ended July 29, 2011. 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:11)(cid:69)(cid:69)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)-K filed under 
the Exchange Act for the fiscal year ended July 29, 2011. 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:11)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)-K filed under 
the Exchange Act for the fiscal year ended July 29, 2011. 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:11)(cid:71)(cid:71)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)-K filed under 
the Exchange Act for the fiscal year ended August 2, 2013. 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:27)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on July 31, 2013. 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:17)(cid:21)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:27)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on July 31, 2013. 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:27)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on October 7, 2014. 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:17)(cid:20)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:27)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on May 22, 2015. 

Incorporated (cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:11)(cid:71)(cid:71)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)-K filed under 
the Exchange Act on September 29, 2015. 

 76

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(21) 

(22) 

(23) 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:17)(cid:20)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:27)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on September 30, 2015. 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:27)-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on September 30, 2015. 

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:17)(cid:20)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:182)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)Form 8-K filed under the 
Exchange Act on April 29, 2016. 

*Document not filed because essentially identical in terms and conditions to Exhibit 10(c). 
**Document not filed because essentially identical in terms and conditions to Exhibit 10(s). 
(cid:130)Denotes management contract or compensatory plan, contract or arrangement. 

 77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
-BLANK PAGE- 

 78

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC. 
Reconciliation of GAAP basis operating 
results to adjusted non-GAAP operating results 
(Unaudited and in thousands) 

In  the  included  Letter  to  Shareholders,  the  Company  makes  reference  to  As  Adjusted  operating  income  and 
earnings  per  diluted  share  before  the  impact  of  a  reduction  of  the  provisions  for  uncertain  tax  positions,  the 
retroactive  reinstatement  of  the  Work  Opportunity  Tax  Credit  and  the  prior  year  Fair  Labor  Standards  Act 
litigation. The Company believes that excluding these items and their related tax effects from its financial results 
reflects  operating  results  that  are  more  indicative  of  the  Company's  ongoing  operating  performance  while 
improving comparability to prior periods, and, as such may provide investors with an enhanced understanding 
of the Company's past financial performance and prospects for the future. This information is not intended to be 
considered  in  isolation  or  as  a  substitute  for  operating  income  or  earnings  per  share  information  prepared  in 
accordance with GAAP. 

Twelve Months ended July 29, 2016 

Twelve Months ended July 31, 2015 

As Reported 

Adjust 
 (1), (2) 

As Adjusted 

As Reported 

Adjust 
(2), (3) 

As Adjusted 

Store operating income 
General and administrative expenses 
Operating income 
Interest Expense 
Pretax income 
Provision for income taxes 
Net income 

 $    423,453 
          142,982 
          280,471 
            14,052 
          266,419 
            77,120               7,604 
 $  (7,604) 

 $   423,453 
 $             - 
142,982 
                  - 
280,471 
                  - 
                  - 
            14,052 
                  -             266,419 
            84,724 
 $  181,695 

 $    189,299 

 $    402,424 
       147,544 
       254,880 
         16,679 
       238,201 
         74,298 
 $    163,903 

 $               - 
           (3,519) 
             3,519 
                  - 

 $       402,424 
144,025 
258,399 
                 16,679 
             3,519                  241,720 
                 77,715 
             3,417 
 $      164,005 
 $          102 

Earning per share - Basic 
Earning per share - Diluted 

 $          7.91 
 $          7.86 

 $    (0.32) 
 $    (0.31) 

 $        7.59 
 $        7.55 

 $          6.85 
 $          6.82 

 $         0.01 
 $               - 

 $            6.86 
 $            6.82 

(1) Provision for income taxes adjusted for reversal of certain provisions for uncertain tax positions. 
(2)  Provision  for  income  taxes  adjusted  to  exclude  $2.3  million  in  both  2016  and  2015  for  the  prior  year  favorable  effect  of  the  retroactive 
reinstatement of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit. 
(3) Accrued liability and tax effects related to the settlement of the Fair Labor Standards Act litigation.   

 79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC.
(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:73)(cid:191)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:86)

(cid:54)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)
(cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:73)(cid:191)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)

(cid:37)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:46)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:72)(cid:79)
(cid:54)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:57)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:72)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:73)(cid:191)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)

P. Doug Couvillion
Vice President, Supply Chain and Quality Assurance

Laura A. Daily
Senior Vice President, Retail

(cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:42)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:82)
Vice President, Restaurant Operations

(cid:48)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:43)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:78)(cid:81)(cid:72)(cid:92)
Regional Vice President, Restaurant Operations

(cid:46)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:43)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:81)
Vice President, Retail Operations

(cid:39)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:43)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:43)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)
Vice President, Marketing

(cid:49)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:57)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:68)(cid:81)
Senior Vice President, Restaurant and Retail Operations 

(cid:53)(cid:68)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:55)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:45)(cid:82)(cid:75)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:81)
Regional Vice President, Restaurant Operations

Jill M. Golder
(cid:54)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:57)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:73)(cid:191)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)

(cid:38)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)
Regional Vice President, Restaurant Operations

(cid:53)(cid:82)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:82)(cid:90)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:45)(cid:85)(cid:17)
Vice President, Internal Audit

(cid:37)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:37)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:83)
Vice President, Talent and Leadership Development

(cid:48)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:45)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:85)
COO, Holler & Dash

(cid:54)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:3)(cid:47)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:48)(cid:82)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)
Vice President, Restaurant and Retail Operations Support

(cid:48)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:58)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:48)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:87)
Vice President, Human Resources

(cid:37)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:49)(cid:82)(cid:92)(cid:72)(cid:86)
Regional Vice President, Restaurant Operations

(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)
Vice President, Training and Management Development

Maja N. Patton
Vice President, Merchandise Planning and Allocation

(cid:38)(cid:75)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:68)
Vice President, Marketplace and Product Development

(cid:58)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:48)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)
Regional Vice President, Restaurant Operations

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Regional Vice President, Retail Operations

Brenda L. Cool
Regional Vice President, Retail Operations

Leon M. De Wet
Vice President, Information Services and CIO

(cid:36)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:47)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:92)
Regional Vice President, Restaurant Operations

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Regional Vice President, Restaurant Operations

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Regional Vice President, Restaurant Operations

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Vice President, Distribution and Logistics

(cid:45)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:3)(cid:47)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:42)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:85)
Vice President, Financial and Strategic Planning

(cid:37)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:45)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:52)(cid:88)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:81)
Regional Vice President, Retail Operations

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Regional Vice President, Retail Operations

(cid:45)(cid:82)(cid:75)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:68)
Vice President, Financial Planning and Analysis

(cid:39)(cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:90)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)
Regional Vice President, Restaurant Operations

Walter W. Tyree
Regional Vice President, Restaurant Operations

(cid:45)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:73)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:48)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:58)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:86)(cid:82)(cid:81)
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(cid:48)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:45)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:61)(cid:92)(cid:79)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)
Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC.
Corporate Information

(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:73)(cid:191)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.
P.O. Box 787
305 Hartmann Drive
Lebanon, TN 37088-0787
Phone: 615-444-5533
crackerbarrel.com

(cid:55)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)
American Stock Transfer & Trust Company
59 Maiden Lane
Plaza Level
New York, NY 10038

(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:74)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:88)(cid:69)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:80)
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Nashville, Tennessee

10-K Report

A copy of the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. 
(cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:19)(cid:16)(cid:46)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:41)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:25)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:191)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)
Securities and Exchange Commission, may be obtained 
without charge through our Internet website, located at 
crackerbarrel.com and (without exhibits) by writing to
the Company, attention: Investor Relations. If requested
in writing, exhibits to the Form 10-K Annual Report are 
available for a reasonable fee.

Annual Meeting

The annual meeting of shareholders will be held at 10:00
a.m. Thursday, November 17, 2016, at the Cracker 
(cid:37)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:79)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:191)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:43)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:39)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:15)
Lebanon, Tennessee. 

(cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:70)(cid:78)
(cid:51)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:51)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:81)
Although our company does not sponsor a dividend 
reinvestment or direct stock purchase plan, our transfer 
agent, American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC 
(“AST”), sponsors and administers such programs. You
may call AST at 800-485-1883 or 718-921-8124 to obtain
enrollment forms. 

(cid:56)(cid:81)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:191)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)
annual report to “CBRL,” “Cracker Barrel” or “The Company” 
refer to Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. and its 
subsidiaries; or its Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®
concept.

“Cracker Barrel Old Country Store” name and logo, 
“Cracker Barrel”, “Pleasing People”, “CB Old Country Store”, 
and “Holler & Dash Biscuit House” are trademarks of 
CBOCS Properties, Inc. ©2016 CBOCS Properties, Inc.

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Old Country Store, Inc. Common Stock, the Standard & Poor’s Mid Cap Index, and the Standard & Poor’s 400 
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in the graph has been provided by FactSet Research Systems, Inc.

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