FAT Brands(FAT) - 2026 FY - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a cautious but cautiously optimistic consumer environment, with recent weeks showing significant sales improvements [5] - Same-store sales were down approximately 3% to 3.5% across all 18 brands, which is considered manageable in the current environment [28] - The company has sold around 200 new franchise units and opened over 70 new stores, with plans to open another 100 this year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has expanded its portfolio to 18 brands, including high-growth brands like Fatburger, Johnny Rockets, and Round Table Pizza [4][7] - The manufacturing operation, which produces cookie dough and pretzel mix, has increased its capacity utilization from 30% to 45%, generating approximately $15 million in annual EBITDA [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen a shift towards cautious consumer spending, but there are signs of improving consumer confidence due to factors like refund checks [5] - The development pipeline indicates strong franchisee confidence, with existing franchisees purchasing more units [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on co-branded and multi-branded locations, which are expected to generate 10% to 20% higher revenues compared to standalone units [8] - The strategy includes converting select Smokey Bones locations into Twin Peaks, which has shown a potential to double sales in converted units [18][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the challenges posed by rising interest rates and a difficult equity market, but emphasizes the strength of the brand portfolio and the potential for restructuring debt [24][25] - The company aims to restructure its debt to make it more manageable, as the current debt is non-recourse to FAT Brands and secured at the brand level [23][24] Other Important Information - The company has faced significant costs related to a government investigation, amounting to $75 million, which has impacted cash flow [25] - The management team is focused on maintaining brand health and leveraging the manufacturing business for additional growth opportunities [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the current state of the consumer? - Management noted a cautious but cautiously optimistic consumer environment, with recent sales improvements [5] Question: How is the development pipeline looking? - The company has sold a couple hundred incremental franchise units in recent years, indicating strong franchisee confidence [6] Question: What are the growth opportunities in non-traditional locations? - Non-traditional locations can be lucrative if they have good traffic flow, and the company is exploring opportunities in places like universities and airports [10] Question: How does the manufacturing operation fit into the long-term strategy? - The manufacturing facility is expected to utilize excess capacity and generate high margins, contributing to overall profitability [11][12] Question: What is the strategy for Twin Peaks and Smokey Bones? - The company is converting select Smokey Bones into Twin Peaks, which has shown promising sales increases [18][21] Question: How is the company addressing its financial position? - Management is in discussions to restructure debt and is looking for practical solutions to improve the financial situation [26][27]