Edgar Filing: DUNKIN' BRANDS GROUP, INC.

Large accelerated filer

Accelerated filer

Non-accelerated filer

Smaller Reporting Company

Form 10-Q

FORM 10-Q

U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934.

For the quarterly period ended September 24, 2011

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 001-35258

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware

20-4145825

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

130 Royall Street

Canton, Massachusetts 02021

(Address of principal executive offices) (zip code)

(781) 737-3000

(Registrants’ telephone number, including area code)

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report.)

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant 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 x NO ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act) YES ¨ NO x

As of October 25, 2011, 120,128,000 shares of common stock of the registrant were outstanding.

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

TABLE OF CONTENTS


		Page

Part I. – Financial Information
Item 1.	Financial Statements		3
Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		24
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk		39
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures		39

Part II. – Other Information
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings		40
Item 1A.	Risk Factors		40
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds		40
Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities		41
Item 5.	Other Information		41
Item 6.	Exhibits		41
	Signatures		42

Part I.

Financial Information

Item 1.

Financial Statements

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)


	September 24, 2011			December 25, 2010

Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	181,849			134,100
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $3,890 and $5,518 as of September 24, 2011 and December 25, 2010, respectively		39,695			35,239
Notes and other receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,471 and $2,443 as of September 24, 2011 and December 25, 2010, respectively		7,073			44,704
Assets held for sale		1,751			4,328
Deferred income taxes, net		12,763			12,570
Restricted assets of advertising funds		26,996			25,113
Prepaid income taxes		—			7,641
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		19,500			20,682

Total current assets		289,627			284,377
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $100,682 and $90,663 as of September 24, 2011 and December 25, 2010, respectively		185,297			193,273
Investments in joint ventures		181,280			169,276
Goodwill		888,748			888,655
Other intangible assets, net		1,514,246			1,535,657
Restricted cash		224			404
Other assets		70,023			75,646

Total assets	$	3,129,445			3,147,288

Liabilities, Common Stock, and Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit)
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	$	14,965			12,500
Capital lease obligations		225			205
Accounts payable		12,598			9,822
Income taxes payable, net		1,400			—
Liabilities of advertising funds		48,459			48,213
Deferred income		23,475			26,221
Other current liabilities		133,530			183,594

Total current liabilities		234,652			280,555

Long-term debt, net		1,472,359			1,847,016
Capital lease obligations		4,989			5,160
Unfavorable operating leases acquired		22,084			24,744
Deferred income		19,031			21,326
Deferred income taxes, net		563,703			586,337
Other long-term liabilities		79,390			75,909

Total long-term liabilities		2,161,556			2,560,492

Commitments and contingencies (note 13)

Common stock, Class L, $0.001 par value; no shares authorized, issued, or outstanding at September 24, 2011; 100,000,000 shares authorized and 22,994,523 shares issued and outstanding at December 25, 2010		—			840,582

Stockholders’ equity (deficit):
Common stock, $0.001 par value; 475,000,000 shares authorized and 120,157,900 shares issued and outstanding at September 24, 2011; 400,000,000 shares authorized and 42,939,360 shares issued and outstanding at December 25, 2010		119			42
Additional paid-in capital		1,475,495			195,212
Treasury stock, at cost		—			(1,807	)
Accumulated deficit		(763,666	)		(741,415	)
Accumulated other comprehensive income		21,289			13,627

Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)		733,237			(534,341	)

Total liabilities, common stock, and stockholders’ equity (deficit)	$	3,129,445			3,147,288

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Operations

(In thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)


	Three months ended						Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010			September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010

				(As adjusted)						(As adjusted)
Revenues:
Franchise fees and royalty income	$	104,562			92,125			288,660			263,020
Rental income		23,676			23,375			69,950			69,807
Sales of ice cream products		25,591			23,415			73,532			65,116
Other revenues		9,679			10,616			27,551			29,416

Total revenues		163,508			149,531			459,693			427,359

Operating costs and expenses:
Occupancy expenses—franchised restaurants		13,073			12,657			38,278			39,147
Cost of ice cream products		18,975			16,419			52,795			44,568
General and administrative expenses, net		71,465			59,220			179,408			163,083
Depreciation		6,128			6,211			18,350			19,159
Amortization of other intangible assets		7,001			7,762			21,106			25,315
Impairment charges		163			265			1,220			2,955

Total operating costs and expenses		116,805			102,534			311,157			294,227
Equity in net income of joint ventures		7,409			7,577			12,206			16,013

Operating income		54,112			54,574			160,742			149,145
Other income (expense):
Interest income		138			37			403			123
Interest expense		(24,065	)		(25,648	)		(86,905	)		(80,721	)
Loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions		(18,050	)		—			(34,222	)		(3,693	)
Other losses, net		(423	)		(4	)		(11	)		(33	)

Total other expense		(42,400	)		(25,615	)		(120,735	)		(84,324	)

Income before income taxes		11,712			28,959			40,007			64,821
Provision for income taxes		4,300			10,117			17,156			22,704

Net income	$	7,412			18,842			22,851			42,117

Earnings (loss) per share:
Class L—basic and diluted	$	4.46			1.25			6.14			3.69
Common—basic and diluted	$	(1.01	)		(0.24	)		(2.00	)		(1.02	)

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)


	Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010

				(As adjusted)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	22,851			42,117
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		39,456			44,474
Amortization of deferred financing costs and original issue discount		4,814			4,923
Loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions		34,222			3,693
Impact of unfavorable operating leases acquired		(2,591	)		(3,296	)
Deferred income taxes		488			(7,001	)
Impairment charges		1,220			2,955
Provision for bad debt		1,095			2,246
Share-based compensation expense		3,414			1,175
Equity in net income of joint ventures		(12,206	)		(16,013	)
Dividends received from joint ventures		7,362			6,603
Other, net		(1,115	)		31
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Restricted cash		—			18,161
Accounts, notes, and other receivables, net		32,047			21,334
Other current assets		3,770			7,522
Accounts payable		3,296			(1,669	)
Other current liabilities		(48,420	)		(38,503	)
Restricted liabilities of advertising funds, net		(1,645	)		1,568
Income taxes payable, net		(11,855	)		13,122
Deferred income		(5,041	)		(9,855	)
Other, net		(121	)		(1,387	)

Net cash provided by operating activities		71,041			92,200

Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property and equipment		(12,800	)		(11,109	)
Other, net		2,115			—

Net cash used in investing activities		(10,685	)		(11,109	)

Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt		250,000			—
Repayment of long-term debt		(635,366	)		(100,765	)
Payment of deferred financing and other debt-related costs		(20,087	)		—
Proceeds from initial public offering, net of offering costs		390,091			—
Proceeds from issuance of common stock		3,213			895
Repurchases of common stock		(286	)		(3,890	)
Change in restricted cash		177			548
Other, net		26			(199	)

Net cash used in financing activities		(12,232	)		(103,411	)

Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents		(375	)		34

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		47,749			(22,286	)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		134,100			53,210

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	181,849			30,924

Supplemental cash flow information:
Cash paid for income taxes	$	28,512			16,335
Cash paid for interest		82,034			74,886
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Property and equipment included in accounts payable and accrued expenses		753			877
Purchase of leaseholds in exchange for capital lease obligation		—			178
Offering costs included in accounts payable and accrued expenses		126			—

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

(1) Description of Business and Organization

Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (“DBGI”), together with its consolidated subsidiaries, is one of the world’s largest franchisors of restaurants serving coffee and baked goods as well as ice cream within the quick service restaurant segment of the restaurant industry. We develop, franchise, and license a system of both traditional and nontraditional quick service restaurants and, in limited circumstances, own and operate individual locations. Through our Dunkin’ Donuts brand, we develop and franchise restaurants featuring coffee, donuts, bagels, and related products. Through our Baskin-Robbins brand, we develop and franchise restaurants featuring ice cream, frozen beverages, and related products. Additionally, our subsidiaries located in Canada and the United Kingdom manufacture and/or distribute Baskin-Robbins ice cream products to Baskin-Robbins franchisees and licensees in various international markets.

Throughout these financial statements, “the Company,” “we,” “us,” “our,” and “management” refer to DBGI and its consolidated subsidiaries taken as a whole.

(2) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

(a) Unaudited Financial Statements

The consolidated balance sheet as of September 24, 2011, the consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, and the consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010 are unaudited.

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of DBGI and its consolidated subsidiaries and have been prepared in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for interim financial information. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) for complete financial statements. All significant transactions and balances between subsidiaries and affiliates have been eliminated in consolidation. In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of such financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been recorded. Such adjustments consisted only of normal recurring items. These unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the fiscal year ended December 25, 2010, included in the Company’s Prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended with the SEC on July 27, 2011 (the “Prospectus”).

(b) Fiscal Year

The Company operates and reports financial information on a 52- or 53-week year on a 13-week quarter basis with the fiscal year ending on the last Saturday in December and fiscal quarters ending on the 13^th Saturday of each quarter (or 14^th Saturday when applicable with respect to the fourth fiscal quarter). The data periods contained within our three- and nine-month periods ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010 reflect the results of operations for the 13-week and 39-week periods ended on those dates. Operating results for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 24, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2011. The data periods contained within our three- and twelve-month periods ending December 31, 2011 will reflect the results of operations for the 14-week and 53-week periods ending on those dates.


		6		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

(c) Accounting Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires the use of estimates, judgments, and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and for the period then ended.

(d) Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying amounts of accounts receivable, notes and other receivables, assets and liabilities related to the advertising funds, accounts payable, and other current liabilities approximate fair value because of their short-term nature. For long-term receivables, we review the creditworthiness of the counterparty on a quarterly basis, and adjust the carrying value as necessary. We believe the carrying value of long-term receivables of $5.4 million and $4.8 million as of September 24, 2011 and December 25, 2010, respectively, approximates fair value.

Financial assets and liabilities are categorized, based on the inputs to the valuation technique, into a three-level fair value hierarchy. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to the quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities and lowest priority to unobservable inputs. Observable market data, when available, is required to be used in making fair value measurements. When inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the level within which the fair value measurement is categorized is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 24, 2011 are summarized as follows (in thousands):


	Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)		Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)

Assets:
Mutual funds	$	2,765		—

Total assets	$	2,765		—

Liabilities:
Deferred compensation liabilities	$	—		6,629

Total liabilities	$	—		6,629

The mutual funds and deferred compensation liabilities primarily relate to the Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan (“DCP Plan”), which allows for pre-tax salary deferrals for certain qualifying employees. Changes in the fair value of the deferred compensation liabilities are derived using quoted prices in active markets of the asset selections made by the participants. The deferred compensation liabilities are classified within Level 2, as defined under U.S. GAAP, because their inputs are derived principally from observable market data by correlation to the hypothetical investments. The Company holds mutual funds, as well as money market funds, to partially offset the Company’s liabilities under the DCP Plan as well as other


		7		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

benefit plans. The changes in the fair value of the mutual funds are derived using quoted prices in active markets for the specific funds. As such, the mutual funds are classified within Level 1, as defined under U.S. GAAP.

The carrying value and fair value of long-term debt was $1.49 billion and $1.45 billion, respectively, as of September 24, 2011. The fair value of our term loans is estimated based on current bid and offer prices, if available, for the same or similar instruments. Considerable judgment is required to develop this estimate.

(e) Concentration of Credit Risk

The Company is subject to credit risk through its accounts receivable consisting primarily of amounts due from franchisees and licensees for franchise fees and royalty income. In addition, we have note and lease receivables from certain of our franchisees and licensees. The financial condition of these franchisees and licensees is largely dependent upon the underlying business trends of our brands and market conditions within the quick service restaurant industry. This concentration of credit risk is mitigated, in part, by the large number of franchisees and licensees of each brand and the short-term nature of the franchise and license fee and lease receivables. No individual franchisee or master licensee accounts for more than 10% of total revenues or accounts and notes receivable.

(f) Reverse Stock Split

Prior to July 8, 2011, the Company had two classes of common stock designated as Class L and Class A common stock. On July 8, 2011, we effected a 1-for-4.568 reverse split of our Class A common stock and then reclassified our Class A common stock into common stock. As a result of the reverse stock split, we reclassified $149 thousand as of December 25, 2010 from common stock, Class A to additional paid-in-capital. The amount reclassified represents the $0.001 par value per share on the difference between Class A shares outstanding prior to and after the reverse split. As a result of the reclassification of Class A common stock to common stock, all references to “Class A common stock” have been changed to “common stock” for all periods presented.

All previously reported per share and common share amounts in the accompanying financial statements and related notes have been restated to reflect the reverse stock split.

(g) Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued new guidance to amend the criteria for performing the second step of the goodwill impairment test for reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts and requires performing the second step if qualitative factors indicate that it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists. This new guidance is effective for the Company beginning in fiscal year 2011. The adoption of this guidance did not have any impact on our goodwill assessment or our consolidated financial statements.

In June 2011, the FASB issued new guidance to increase the prominence of other comprehensive income in financial statements. This guidance provides the option to present the components of net income and comprehensive income in either one single statement or in two consecutive statements reporting net income and other comprehensive income. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning in fiscal year 2012. The adoption of this guidance will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.


		8		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

(h) Reclassifications

The Company has revised the presentation of certain captions within the consolidated statements of operations and cash flows to provide a more concise presentation. Additionally, the Company reclassified equity in net income of joint ventures within the consolidated statements of operations from other income (expense) to operating income, as these investments in joint ventures represent our business model for operating our brands in Japan and Korea and are our primary source of income generation from restaurants operating in these markets. Prior period financial statements have been revised to conform to the current period presentation. The revisions to the presentation of the consolidated statements of operations resulted in an increase in operating income and a corresponding increase in other expenses of $7.6 million and $16.0 million for the three and nine months ended September 25, 2010, respectively. The revisions had no impact on total revenues, income before income taxes, or net income. The revisions to the consolidated statements of cash flows had no impact on net cash provided by (used in) operating, investing, or financing activities.

(i) Subsequent Events

Subsequent events have been evaluated through the date these consolidated financial statements were filed.

(3) Change in Accounting for Contingent Rental Income

In fiscal year 2010, we elected to change our method of accounting for contingent rental income to comply with the guidance prescribed by the SEC. This change in accounting principle has been applied retrospectively to the prior periods presented. The following financial statement line items for the three and nine months ended September 25, 2010 were impacted by this accounting change (in thousands):


	Three months ended September 25, 2010				Nine months ended September 25, 2010
	As originally reported		As adjusted		As originally reported		As adjusted

Rental income	$	22,808		23,375		68,930		69,807
Total revenues		148,964		149,531		426,482		427,359
Operating income		54,007		54,574		148,268		149,145
Income before income taxes		28,392		28,959		63,944		64,821
Provision for income taxes		9,937		10,117		22,430		22,704
Net income		18,455		18,842		41,514		42,117

(4) Franchise Fees and Royalty Income

Franchise fees and royalty income consisted of the following (in thousands):


	Three months ended				Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010

Royalty income	$	93,811		86,573		264,479		247,869
Initial franchise fees, including renewal income		10,751		5,552		24,181		15,151

Total franchise fees and royalty income	$	104,562		92,125		288,660		263,020


		9		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

The changes in franchised and company-owned points of distribution were as follows:


	Three months ended						Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010			September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010

Systemwide Points of Distribution
Franchised points of distribution—beginning of period		16,406			15,797			16,162			15,375
Franchises opened		299			382			893			1,184
Franchises closed		(201	)		(167	)		(562	)		(527	)
Net transfers (to) from company-owned points of distribution		(1	)		—			10			(20	)

Franchised points of distribution in operation—end of period		16,503			16,012			16,503			16,012
Company-owned points of distribution—end of period		22			35			22			35

Total systemwide points of distribution—end of period		16,525			16,047			16,525			16,047

(5) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

The changes in the gross carrying amount of goodwill from December 25, 2010 to September 24, 2011 are due to the impact of foreign currency fluctuations and goodwill acquired.

Other intangible assets at September 24, 2011 consisted of the following (in thousands):


	Weighted average amortization period (years)		Gross carrying amount		Accumulated amortization			Net carrying amount

Definite-lived intangibles:
Franchise rights		20	$	383,476		(113,932	)		269,544
Favorable operating leases acquired		13		87,937		(36,968	)		50,969
License rights		10		6,230		(3,467	)		2,763
Indefinite-lived intangible:
Trade names		N/A		1,190,970		—			1,190,970

			$	1,668,613		(154,367	)		1,514,246


		10		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

Other intangible assets at December 25, 2010 consisted of the following (in thousands):


	Weighted average amortization period (years)		Gross carrying amount		Accumulated amortization			Net carrying amount

Definite lived intangibles:
Franchise rights		20	$	385,309		(100,296	)		285,013
Favorable operating leases acquired		13		90,406		(33,965	)		56,441
License rights		10		6,230		(2,997	)		3,233
Indefinite lived intangible:
Trade names		N/A		1,190,970		—			1,190,970

			$	1,672,915		(137,258	)		1,535,657

The changes in the gross carrying amount of other intangible assets from December 25, 2010 to September 24, 2011 are due to the impact of foreign currency fluctuations and the impairment of favorable operating leases acquired resulting from lease terminations. Impairment of favorable operating leases acquired totaled $32 thousand and $145 thousand for the three months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, and $249 thousand and $1.7 million for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, and is included within impairment charges in the consolidated statements of operations.

Total estimated amortization expense for fiscal years 2011 through 2015 is presented below (in thousands). The amount reflected below for fiscal year 2011 includes year-to-date amortization.


Fiscal year:
2011	$	27,899
2012		26,824
2013		26,264
2014		25,737
2015		25,382

The impact of our unfavorable leases acquired resulted in an increase in rental income and a decrease in rental expense as follows (in thousands):


	Three months ended				Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010

Increase in rental income	$	292		365		1,114		1,455
Decrease in rental expense		601		695		1,477		1,841

Total increase in operating income	$	893		1,060		2,591		3,296


		11		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

(6) Debt

On February 18, 2011, the Company completed a re-pricing of its term loans under the senior credit facility, as well as increased the size of the term loans from $1.25 billion to $1.40 billion. The incremental proceeds of the term loans were used to repay $150.0 million of the Company’s senior notes.

As a result of the re-pricing of the term loans, the Company recorded a loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transaction of $4.4 million, which includes a debt extinguishment of $465 thousand related to the write-off of original issuance discount and deferred financing costs, and $3.9 million of costs related to the refinancing, including a prepayment premium paid to creditors and fees paid to third parties. In conjunction with the repayment of senior notes, the Company recorded a loss on debt extinguishment of $6.6 million, which includes the write-off of original issuance discount and deferred financing costs totaling $5.8 million, as well as a prepayment premium and third-party costs of $758 thousand.

On May 24, 2011, the Company increased the size of the term loans from $1.40 billion to $1.50 billion. The incremental proceeds of the term loans were used to repay $100.0 million of the Company’s senior notes.

As a result of the additional borrowings under the term loans, the Company recorded a loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transaction of $859 thousand, which consisted primarily of fees paid to third parties. In conjunction with the repayment of senior notes, the Company recorded a loss on debt extinguishment of $4.3 million, which includes the write-off of original issuance discount and deferred financing costs totaling $3.8 million, as well as a prepayment premium of $500 thousand.

In connection with the May 2011 amendment of the senior credit facility, the Company paid an arranging and re-pricing fee of $3.0 million upon consummation of the initial public offering (see note 10). This payment is recorded in loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions in the consolidated statements of operations.

On August 1, 2011, the Company deposited funds with the trustee governing the senior notes to repay the full remaining principal balance on the senior notes. In conjunction with the repayment of senior notes, the Company recorded a loss on debt extinguishment of $15.1 million, which includes the write-off of original issuance discount and deferred financing costs totaling $13.2 million, as well as a prepayment premium and third-party costs of $1.9 million.

As of September 24, 2011, borrowings under the senior credit facility bear interest at a rate per annum equal to an applicable margin plus, at our option, either (1) a base rate determined by reference to the highest of (a) the Federal Funds rate plus 0.5%, (b) the prime rate, (c) the LIBOR rate plus 1%, and (d) 2.00% or (2) a LIBOR rate provided that LIBOR shall not be lower than 1.00%. The applicable margin under the term loan facility is 2.00% for loans based upon the base rate and 3.00% for loans based upon the LIBOR rate.

Repayments are required to be made on term loan borrowings equal to $15.0 million per calendar year, payable in quarterly installments through September 2017.


		12		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

(7) Other Current Liabilities

Other current liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):


	September 24, 2011		December 25, 2010

Gift card/certificate liability	$	76,561		123,078
Accrued salary and benefits		25,788		21,307
Accrued professional and legal costs		7,367		9,839
Accrued interest		5,345		6,129
Other		18,469		23,241

Total other current liabilities	$	133,530		183,594

(8) Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010 consisted of the following (in thousands):


	Three months ended						Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010			September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010

Net income	$	7,412			18,842			22,851			42,117
Effect of foreign currency translation		(136	)		8,635			7,916			9,168
Other		(303	)		(75	)		(254	)		(109	)

Total comprehensive income	$	6,973			27,402			30,513			51,176

The components of accumulated other comprehensive income were as follows (in thousands):


	September 24, 2011			December 25, 2010

Effect of foreign currency translation	$	22,266			14,350
Other		(977	)		(723	)

Total accumulated other comprehensive income	$	21,289			13,627

(9) Segment Information

The Company is strategically aligned into two global brands, Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, which are further segregated between U.S. operations and international operations. As such, the Company has determined that it has four operating segments, which are its reportable segments: Dunkin’ Donuts U.S., Dunkin’ Donuts International, Baskin-Robbins U.S., and Baskin-Robbins International. Dunkin’ Donuts U.S., Baskin-Robbins U.S., and Dunkin’ Donuts International primarily derive their revenues through royalty income, franchise fees, and rental income. Baskin-Robbins U.S. also derives revenue through license fees from a third-party license agreement. Baskin-Robbins International primarily derives its revenues from the manufacturing and sales of ice cream products, as well as royalty income, franchise fees, and license fees. The operating


		13		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

results of each segment are regularly reviewed and evaluated separately by the Company’s senior management, which includes, but is not limited to, the chief executive officer, the chief financial officer, and brand officers. Senior management primarily evaluates the performance of its segments and allocates resources to them based on earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, impairment charges, loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions, other losses, and unallocated corporate charges referred to as segment profit. When senior management reviews a balance sheet, it is at a consolidated level. The accounting policies applicable to each segment are consistent with those used in the consolidated financial statements.

Subsequent to December 25, 2010 and as part of fiscal year 2011 management reporting, intersegment royalties and rental income earned from company-owned restaurants are now eliminated from Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. segment revenues. Revenues for all periods presented in the tables below have been restated to reflect these changes.

Revenues for all operating segments include only transactions with unaffiliated customers and include no intersegment revenues. Revenues reported as “Other” include retail sales for company-owned restaurants, as well as revenue earned through arrangements with third parties in which our brand names are used and revenue generated from online training programs for franchisees that are not allocated to a specific segment. Revenues by segment were as follows (in thousands):


	Revenues
	Three months ended				Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010

			(As adjusted)				(As adjusted)
Dunkin’ Donuts U.S.	$	113,898		100,461		317,505		292,612
Dunkin’ Donuts International		3,669		3,552		11,369		10,137
Baskin-Robbins U.S.		12,003		12,308		33,412		34,467
Baskin-Robbins International		28,090		25,278		80,149		69,690

Total reportable segment revenues		157,660		141,599		442,435		406,906
Other		5,848		7,932		17,258		20,453

Total revenues	$	163,508		149,531		459,693		427,359


		14		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

For purposes of evaluating segment profit, Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. includes the net operating income earned from company-owned restaurants. Expenses included in “Corporate and other” in the segment profit table below include corporate overhead costs, such as payroll and related benefit costs and professional services. Segment profit by segment was as follows (in thousands):


	Segment profit
	Three months ended						Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010			September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010

				(As adjusted)						(As adjusted)
Dunkin’ Donuts U.S.	$	88,992			72,335			242,305			213,568
Dunkin’ Donuts International		2,496			3,696			8,826			10,944
Baskin-Robbins U.S.		6,963			8,761			18,189			23,387
Baskin-Robbins International		14,453			13,923			33,069			34,891

Total reportable segment profit		112,904			98,715			302,389			282,790
Corporate and other		(45,500	)		(29,903	)		(100,971	)		(86,216	)
Interest expense, net		(23,927	)		(25,611	)		(86,502	)		(80,598	)
Depreciation		(6,128	)		(6,211	)		(18,350	)		(19,159	)
Amortization of other intangible assets		(7,001	)		(7,762	)		(21,106	)		(25,315	)
Impairment charges		(163	)		(265	)		(1,220	)		(2,955	)
Loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions		(18,050	)		—			(34,222	)		(3,693	)
Other losses, net		(423	)		(4	)		(11	)		(33	)

Income before income taxes	$	11,712			28,959			40,007			64,821

Equity in net income of joint ventures is included in segment profit for the Dunkin’ Donuts International and Baskin-Robbins International reportable segments. Equity in net income of joint ventures by reportable segment was as follows (in thousands):


	Equity in net income of joint ventures
	Three months ended				Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010

Dunkin’ Donuts International	$	51		1,060		944		3,484
Baskin-Robbins International		7,358		6,517		11,262		12,529

Total equity in net income of joint ventures	$	7,409		7,577		12,206		16,013

(10) Stockholders’ Equity

(a) Initial Public Offering

On August 1, 2011, the Company completed an initial public offering in which the Company sold 22,250,000 shares of common stock at an initial public offering price of $19.00 per share, less underwriter discounts and commissions, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $390.0 million after deducting


		15		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

underwriter discounts and commissions and expenses paid or payable by the Company. Additionally, the underwriters exercised, in full, their option to purchase 3,337,500 additional shares, which were sold by certain existing stockholders. The Company did not receive any proceeds from the sales of shares by the existing stockholders. The Company used a portion of the net proceeds from the initial public offering to repay the remaining $375.0 million outstanding under the senior notes, with the remaining net proceeds being used for working capital and general corporate purposes. As of September 24, 2011, $126 thousand of accrued offering costs remained unpaid, but are expected to be paid by the end of the Company’s fiscal year.

(b) Class L Common Stock

Prior to the initial public offering, our charter authorized the Company to issue two classes of common stock, Class L and common. The rights of the holders of common and Class L shares were identical, except with respect to priority in the event of a distribution, as defined. The Class L common stock was entitled to a preference with respect to all distributions by the Company until the holders of Class L common stock had received an amount equal to the Class L base amount of approximately forty-one dollars and seventy-five cents per share, plus an amount sufficient to generate an internal rate of return of 9% per annum on the Class L base amount, compounded quarterly. Thereafter, the common and Class L stock shared ratably in all distributions by the Company. Class L common stock was classified outside of permanent equity in the consolidated balance sheets at its preferential distribution amount, as the Class L stockholders controlled the timing and amount of distributions. The Class L preferred return of 9% per annum, compounded quarterly, was added to the Class L preferential distribution amount each period and recorded as an increase to accumulated deficit. Dividends paid on the Class L common stock reduced the Class L preferential distribution amount.

Immediately prior to the initial public offering, each outstanding share of Class L common stock converted into approximately 0.2189 of a share of common stock plus 2.2149 shares of common stock, which was determined by dividing the Class L preference amount, $38.8274, by the initial public offering price net of the estimated underwriting discount and a pro rata portion, based upon the number of shares sold in the offering, of the estimated offering-related expenses. As such, the 22,866,379 shares of Class L common stock that were outstanding at the time of the offering converted into 55,652,782 shares of common stock.

The change in Class L common stock during the nine months ended September 24, 2011 resulted from the following (in thousands):


	Nine months ended September 24, 2011
	Shares			Amount

Common stock, Class L, as of December 25, 2010		22,995		$	840,582
Issuance of Class L common stock		65			2,271
Repurchases of Class L common stock		—			(113	)
Retirement of treasury stock		(194	)		—
Accretion of Class L preferred return		—			45,101
Conversion of Class L shares to Class A shares		(22,866	)		(887,841	)

Common stock, Class L, as of September 24, 2011		—			—


		16		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

The increase in the accumulated deficit for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 resulted from the accretion of the Class L preferred return, offset by net income for the period.

(c) Treasury Stock

During the nine months ended September 24, 2011, the Company repurchased a total of 17,189 shares of common stock and 3,266 shares of Class L common stock that was originally sold and/or granted to former employees of the Company. The Company accounts for treasury stock under the cost method, and as such recorded $286 thousand in treasury stock during the nine months ended September 24, 2011 based on the cost of the shares on the respective dates of repurchase. On April 26, 2011, the Company retired all of its treasury stock, resulting in a $2.0 million reduction in common treasury stock and additional paid-in-capital.

(d) Equity Incentive Plans

The Company’s 2006 Executive Incentive Plan, as amended, (the “2006 Plan”) provides for the grant of stock-based and other incentive awards. A maximum of 12,191,145 shares of common stock may be delivered in satisfaction of awards under the 2006 Plan, of which a maximum of 5,012,966 shares may be awarded as nonvested (restricted) shares and a maximum of 7,178,179 may be delivered in satisfaction of stock options.

The Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. 2011 Omnibus Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Omnibus Plan”) was adopted in July 2011, and will replace the 2006 Plan. A maximum of 7,000,000 shares of common stock may be delivered in satisfaction of awards under the Omnibus Plan. As of September 24, 2011, no awards have been made under the Omnibus Plan, however, the Company intends on granting all future stock-based awards under this plan.

During the nine months ended September 24, 2011, the Company granted the following stock-based awards, all of which were granted under the 2006 Plan:


Grant Date	Type of award		Number of awards granted		Option exercise price		Fair value of underlying common stock

3/9/2011		Executive options		637,040	$	7.31	$	7.31
3/9/2011		Nonexecutive options		21,891	$	7.31	$	7.31
7/26/2011		Restricted shares		65,000		n/a	$	19.00
7/26/2011		Executive options		191,000	$	19.00	$	19.00
7/26/2011		Nonexecutive options		28,600	$	19.00	$	19.00

The executive stock options vest in two separate tranches, which have been designated as Tranche 4 and Tranche 5. Tranche 4 options vest in equal annual amounts over a five-year period subsequent to the grant date. Tranche 5 options vest based on continued service over a five-year period and achievement of specified investor returns upon a sale, distribution, or dividend. Both Tranche 4 and Tranche 5 options provide for partial accelerated vesting upon change in control. The nonexecutive stock options vest in equal annual amounts over a five-year period subsequent to the grant date, and also fully vest upon a change of control. The maximum contractual term of both executive and nonexecutive options is ten years. The restricted shares vest in four or five equal annual installments based on a service condition, and also fully vest upon a change of control. Of the awards granted on July 26, 2011, 65,000 restricted shares and 155,000 executive options were forfeited prior to September 24, 2011.


		17		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

The Company estimated the fair value of the Tranche 4 options and the nonexecutive options on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The fair value of the Tranche 5 options was estimated on the date of grant using a combination of lattice models and Monte Carlo simulations. The estimated fair value of awards granted is based upon certain assumptions, including probability of achievement of performance and market conditions for certain awards, stock price, expected term, expected volatility, dividend yield, and a risk-free interest rate. Prior to the initial public offering, the fair value of the common stock underlying the options granted was determined based on a contemporaneous valuation performed by an independent third-party valuation specialist in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Practice Aid, Valuation of Privately-Held-Company Equity Securities Issued as Compensation.

Total compensation expense related to all share-based awards was $3.0 million and $304 thousand for the three months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, and $3.4 million and $1.2 million for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, and is included in general and administrative expenses, net in the consolidated statements of operations. Share-based compensation expense for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 includes $2.6 million of expense recorded upon completion of the initial public offering related to approximately 0.8 million outstanding Tranche 3 restricted shares granted to employees primarily in 2006 that were not eligible to vest until completion of an initial public offering or change of control (performance condition).

(11) Earnings per Share

The computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share is as follows (in thousands, except share and per share amounts):


	Three months ended						Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010			September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010

Net income—basic and diluted	$	7,412			18,842			22,851			42,117
Allocation of net income (loss) to common stockholders—basic and diluted:
Class L		101,897			28,605			140,211			84,210
Common		(94,485	)		(9,763	)		(117,360	)		(42,093	)
Weighted average number of common shares—basic and diluted:
Class L		22,866,379			22,802,457			22,845,378			22,807,674
Common		93,529,128			41,323,438			58,807,271			41,288,341
Earnings (loss) per common share—basic and diluted:
Class L	$	4.46			1.25			6.14			3.69
Common	$	(1.01	)		(0.24	)		(2.00	)		(1.02	)

As the Company had both Class L and common stock outstanding during each of the periods presented and Class L has preference with respect to all distributions, earnings per share is calculated using the two-class method, which requires the allocation of earnings to each class of common stock. The numerator in calculating


		18		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

Class L basic and diluted earnings per share is the Class L preference amount accrued at 9% per annum during the period presented plus, if positive, a pro rata share of an amount equal to consolidated net income less the Class L preference amount. The Class L preferential distribution amounts accrued were $6.8 million and $28.6 million during the three months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, and $45.1 million and $84.2 million during the nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively. The Class L preferential distribution amounts for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 declined from the prior year comparable periods due to the conversion of the Class L shares into common stock immediately prior to the Company’s initial public offering that was completed on August 1, 2011, as well as the dividend paid to holders of Class L shares on December 3, 2010, which reduced the Class L per-share preference amount on which the 9% annual return is calculated. Additionally, the numerator in calculating the Class L basic and diluted earnings per share for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 includes an amount representing the excess of the fair value of the consideration transferred to the Class L shareholders upon conversion to common stock over the carrying amount of the Class L shares at the date of conversion, which occurred immediately prior to the Company’s initial public offering. As the carrying amount of the Class L shares was equal to the Class L preference amount, the excess fair value of the consideration transferred to the Class L shareholders was equal to the fair value of the additional 0.2189 of a share of common stock into which each Class L share converted (“Class L base share”), which totaled $95.1 million, calculated as follows:


Class L shares outstanding immediately prior to the initial public offering		22,866,379
Number of common shares received for each Class L share		0.2189

Common stock received by Class L shareholders, excluding preferential distribution		5,005,775
Common stock fair value per share (initial public offering price per share)	$	19.00

Fair value of Class L base shares (in thousands)	$	95,110

The weighted average number of Class L shares in the Class L earnings per share calculation represents the weighted average from the beginning of the period up through the date of conversion of the Class L shares into common shares.

The weighted average number of common shares in the common diluted earnings per share calculation excludes all restricted stock and stock options outstanding during the respective periods, as they would be antidilutive. As of September 24, 2011, there were 689,210 unvested common restricted stock awards and 5,377,736 options to purchase common stock outstanding that may be dilutive in the future. Of those amounts, there were 675,817 common restricted stock awards and 3,511,860 options to purchase common stock that were performance-based and for which the performance criteria have not yet been met. There were no Class L common stock equivalents outstanding during the three or nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010.

(12) Income Taxes

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2011, the Company recognized deferred tax expense of $1.9 million due to enacted changes in future state income tax rates. This change in enacted tax rates affects the tax rate expected to be in effect in future periods when the deferred tax assets and liabilities reverse.


		19		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

The federal income tax returns of the Company for fiscal years 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009 are currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), and the IRS has proposed adjustments for fiscal years 2006 and 2007 to increase our taxable income as it relates to our gift card program, specifically to record taxable income upon the activation of gift cards. We have filed a protest to the IRS’ proposed adjustments. If the IRS were to prevail in this matter the proposed adjustments would result in additional taxable income of approximately $58.9 million for fiscal years 2006 and 2007 and approximately $26.5 million of additional federal and state taxes and interest owed, net of federal and state benefits. If the IRS prevails, a cash payment would be required and the additional taxable income would represent temporary differences that will be deductible in future years. Therefore, the potential tax expense attributable to the IRS adjustments for 2006 and 2007 would be limited to $2.9 million, consisting of federal and state interest, net of federal and state benefits. In addition, if the IRS were to prevail in respect of fiscal years 2006 and 2007, it is likely to make similar claims for years subsequent to fiscal 2007 and the potential additional federal and state taxes and interest owed, net of federal and state benefits, for fiscal years 2008, 2009, and 2010, computed on a similar basis to the IRS method used for fiscal years 2006 and 2007, and factoring in the timing of our gift card uses and activations, would be approximately $19.6 million. The corresponding potential tax expense impact attributable to these later fiscal years, 2008 through 2010, would be approximately $0.7 million. Subsequent to September 24, 2011, representatives of the Company met with the IRS appeals officer. Based on that meeting, the Company proposed a settlement related to this issue and is awaiting a response from the IRS. If our settlement proposal is accepted as presented, we expect to make a cash tax payment in an amount that is less than the amounts proposed by the IRS to cumulatively adjust our tax method of accounting for our gift card program through the tax year ended December 25, 2010. No assurance can be made that a settlement can be reached, or that we will otherwise prevail in the final resolution of this matter. An unfavorable outcome from any tax audit could result in higher tax costs, penalties, and interests, thereby negatively and adversely impacting our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

(13) Commitments and Contingencies

(a) Lease Commitments

The Company is party to various leases for property, including land and buildings, leased automobiles, and office equipment under non-cancelable operating and capital lease arrangements.

(b) Guarantees

The Company has established agreements with certain financial institutions whereby the Company’s franchisees can obtain financing with terms of approximately five to ten years for various business purposes. Substantially all loan proceeds are used by the franchisees to finance store improvements, new store development, new central production locations, equipment purchases, related business acquisition costs, working capital, and other costs. In limited instances, the Company guarantees a portion of the payments and commitments of the franchisees, which is collateralized by the store equipment owned by the franchisee. Under the terms of the agreements, in the event that all outstanding borrowings come due simultaneously, the Company would be contingently liable for $7.1 million at September 24, 2011. At September 24, 2011, there were no amounts under such guarantees that were due. The fair value of the guarantee liability and corresponding asset recorded on the consolidated balance sheets was $840 thousand and $1.0 million, respectively, at September 24, 2011 and $1.0 million and $1.5 million, respectively, at December 25, 2010. The Company assesses the risk of performing


		20		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

under these guarantees for each franchisee relationship on a quarterly basis. As of September 24, 2011 and December 25, 2010, the Company had recorded reserves for such guarantees of $191 thousand and $1.2 million, respectively.

The Company has entered into a third-party guarantee with a distribution facility of franchisee products that ensures franchisees will purchase a certain volume of product over a ten-year period. As product is purchased by the Company’s franchisees over the term of the agreement, the amount of the guarantee is reduced. As of September 24, 2011, the Company was contingently liable for $8.0 million, under this guarantee. Based on current internal forecasts, the Company believes the franchisees will achieve the required volume of purchases, and therefore, the Company would not be required to make payments under this agreement. Additionally, the Company has various supply chain contracts that provide for purchase commitments or exclusivity, the majority of which result in the Company being contingently liable upon early termination of the agreement or engaging with another supplier. Based on prior history and the Company’s ability to extend contract terms, we have not recorded any liabilities related to these commitments. As of September 24, 2011, we were contingently liable under such supply chain agreements for approximately $28.9 million.

As a result of assigning our interest in obligations under property leases as a condition of the refranchising of certain restaurants and the guarantee of certain other leases, we are contingently liable on certain lease agreements. These leases have varying terms, the latest of which expires in 2024. As of September 24, 2011, the potential amount of undiscounted payments the Company could be required to make in the event of nonpayment by the primary lessee was $9.8 million. Our franchisees are the primary lessees under the majority of these leases. The Company generally has cross-default provisions with these franchisees that would put them in default of their franchise agreement in the event of nonpayment under the lease. We believe these cross-default provisions significantly reduce the risk that we will be required to make payments under these leases. Accordingly, we do not believe it is probable that the Company will be required to make payments under such leases, and we have not recorded a liability for such contingent liabilities.

(c) Letters of Credit

At September 24, 2011, the Company had standby letters of credit outstanding for a total of $11.1 million. There were no amounts drawn down on these letters of credit.

(d) Legal Matters

The Company is engaged in several matters of litigation arising in the ordinary course of its business as a franchisor. Such matters include disputes related to compliance with the terms of franchise and development agreements, including claims or threats of claims of breach of contract, negligence, and other alleged violations by the Company. At September 24, 2011 and December 25, 2010, contingent liabilities totaling $4.1 million and $4.2 million, respectively, were included in other current liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets to reflect the Company’s estimate of the potential loss which may be incurred in connection with these matters. While the Company intends to vigorously defend its positions against all claims in these lawsuits and disputes, it is reasonably possible that the losses in connection with these matters could increase by up to an additional $8.0 million based on the outcome of ongoing litigation or negotiations.


		21		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

(14) Related-Party Transactions

(a) Advertising Funds

At September 24, 2011 and December 25, 2010, the Company had a net payable of $21.5 million and $23.1 million, respectively, to the various advertising funds.

To cover administrative expenses of the advertising funds, the Company charges each advertising fund a management fee for items such as facilities, accounting services, information technology, data processing, product development, legal, administrative support services, and other operating expenses, which amounted to $1.4 million and $1.5 million for the three months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, and $4.4 million and $4.3 million for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively. Such management fees are reflected in the consolidated statements of operations as a reduction in general and administrative expenses, net.

(b) Sponsors

DBGI is majority-owned by investment funds controlled by Bain Capital Partners, LLC, The Carlyle Group, and Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (collectively, the “Sponsors”). Prior to the closing of the Company’s initial public offering on August 1, 2011, the Company was charged an annual management fee by the Sponsors of $1.0 million per Sponsor, payable in quarterly installments. In connection with the completion of the initial public offering in August 2011, the Company incurred an expense of approximately $14.7 million related to the termination of the Sponsor management agreement. Including this termination fee, the Company recognized $14.9 million and $750 thousand of expense related to Sponsor management fees during the three months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, and $16.4 million and $2.3 million during the nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, which is included in general and administrative expenses, net in the consolidated statements of operations. At December 25, 2010, the Company had $500 thousand of prepaid management fees to the Sponsors, which was recorded in prepaid expenses and other current assets in the consolidated balance sheets.

At September 24, 2011 and December 25, 2010, certain affiliates of the Sponsors held $65.4 million and $70.6 million, respectively, of term loans, net of original issue discount, issued under the Company’s senior credit facility. The terms of these loans are identical to the terms of all other term loans issued to lenders under the senior credit facility.

Our Sponsors have a controlling interest in our Company as well as several other entities. The existence of such common ownership and management control could result in differences within our operating results or financial position than if the entities were autonomous. The Company made payments to entities under common control totaling approximately $206 thousand and $118 thousand during the three months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, and $809 thousand and $630 thousand during the nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, primarily for the purchase of training services and leasing of restaurant space. At September 24, 2011, the Company had a net credit to be applied to future invoices totaling $147 thousand from these entities. At December 25, 2010, the company owed these entities $48 thousand, which was recorded in accounts payable and other current liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.


		22		(Continued)

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(continued)

(Unaudited)

We have entered into an investor agreement with the Sponsors and also entered into a registration rights and coordination agreement with certain shareholders, including the Sponsors. Pursuant to these agreements, subject to certain exceptions and conditions, our Sponsors may require us to register their shares of common stock under the Securities Act, and they will have the right to participate in certain future registrations of securities by us.

(c) Joint Ventures

The Company received royalties from its joint ventures as follows (in thousands):


	Three months ended				Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010

B-R 31 Ice Cream Co., Ltd (BR Japan)	$	1,015		904		2,116		1,779
Baskin-Robbins Co., Ltd Korea (BR Korea)		898		773		2,551		2,205

	$	1,913		1,677		4,667		3,984

At September 24, 2011 and December 25, 2010, the Company had $1.0 million of royalties receivable from its joint ventures which were recorded in accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts, in the consolidated balance sheets.

The Company made net payments to its joint ventures totaling approximately $497 thousand and $350 thousand during the three months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, and $958 thousand and $1.1 million during the nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010, respectively, primarily for the purchase of ice cream products and incentive payments.

(d) Board of Directors

Certain family members of one of our directors hold an ownership interest in an entity that owns and operates Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants and holds the right to develop additional restaurants under store development agreements. During the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, the Company received $263 thousand and $420 thousand, respectively, in royalty, rental, and other payments from this entity. No amounts were received during the three or nine months ended September 25, 2010.


		23		(Continued)

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained herein are not based on historical fact and are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the applicable securities laws and regulations. Generally, these statements can be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “feel,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “should,” “would,” and similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These forward-looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. These risk and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the ongoing level of profitability of franchisees and licensees; changes in working relationship with our franchisees and licensees and the actions of our franchisees and licensees; our master franchisees’ relationships with sub-franchisees; the strength of our brand in the markets in which we compete; changes in competition within the quick service restaurant segment of the food industry; changes in consumer behavior resulting from changes in technologies or alternative methods of delivery; economic and political conditions in the countries where we operate; our substantial indebtedness; our ability to protect our intellectual property rights; consumer preferences, spending patterns and demographic trends; the success of our growth strategy and international development; changes in commodity and food prices, particularly coffee, dairy products and sugar, and the other operating costs; shortages of coffee; failure of our network and information technology systems; interruptions or shortages in the supply of products to our franchisees and licensees; inability to recover our capital costs; changes in political, legal, economic or other factors in international markets; termination of a master franchise agreement or contracts with the U.S. military; currency exchange rates; the impact of food borne-illness or food safety issues or adverse public or medial opinions regarding the health effects of consuming our products; our ability to collect royalty payments from our franchisees and licensees; uncertainties relating to litigation; changes in regulatory requirements to our and our franchisees and licensees ability to comply with current or future regulatory requirements; review and audit of certain of our tax returns; the ability of our franchisees and licensees to open new restaurants and keep existing restaurants in operation; our ability to retain key personnel; any inability to protect consumer credit card data and catastrophic events.

Forward-looking statements reflect management’s analysis as of the date of this quarterly report. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations are more fully described in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including under the section headed “Risk Factors” in our Prospectus. Except as required by applicable law, we do not undertake to publicly update or revise any of these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Introduction and Overview

We are one of the world’s leading franchisors of quick service restaurants (“QSRs”) serving hot and cold coffee and baked goods, as well as hard serve ice cream. We franchise restaurants under our Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins brands. With over 16,500 points of distribution in 56 countries, we believe that our portfolio has strong brand awareness in our key markets. QSR is a restaurant format characterized by counter or drive-thru ordering and limited or no table service. As of September 24, 2011, Dunkin’ Donuts had 9,900 global points of distribution with restaurants in 36 U.S. states and the District of Columbia and in 31 foreign countries. Baskin-Robbins had 6,625 global points of distribution as of the same date, with restaurants in 45 U.S. states and the District of Columbia and in 46 foreign countries.

We are organized into four reporting segments: Dunkin’ Donuts U.S., Dunkin’ Donuts International, Baskin-Robbins U.S., and Baskin-Robbins International. We generate revenue from four primary sources: (i) royalty income and franchise fees associated with franchised restaurants, (ii) rental income from restaurant properties that we lease or sublease to franchisees, (iii) sales of ice cream products to franchisees in certain international markets, and (iv) other income including fees for the licensing of our brands for products sold in non-franchised outlets, the licensing of the right to manufacture Baskin-Robbins ice cream sold to U.S. franchisees, refranchising gains, transfer fees from franchisees, revenue from our company-owned restaurants, and online training fees.

Franchisees fund the vast majority of the cost of new restaurant development. As a result, we are able to grow our system with lower capital requirements than many of our competitors. With only 22 company-owned points of distribution as of September 24, 2011, we are less affected by store-level costs and profitability and fluctuations in commodity costs than other QSR operators.

Our franchisees fund substantially all of the advertising that supports both brands. Those advertising funds also fund the cost of our marketing personnel. Royalty payments and advertising fund contributions typically are made on a weekly basis for restaurants in the U.S., which limits our working capital needs. For the nine months ended September 24, 2011, franchisee contributions to the U.S. advertising funds were $228.9 million.

We operate and report financial information on a 52- or 53-week year on a 13-week quarter (or 14-week fourth quarter, when applicable) basis with the fiscal year ending on the last Saturday in December and fiscal quarters ending on the 13th Saturday of each quarter (or 14th Saturday of the fourth quarter, when applicable). The data periods contained within the three- and nine-month periods ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010 reflect the results of operations for the 13-week and 39-week periods ended on those dates. Operating results for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 24, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2011. The data periods contained within our three- and twelve-month periods ending December 31, 2011 will reflect the results of operations for the 14-week and 53-week periods ending on those dates.

Selected Operating and Financial Highlights


	Three months ended				Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010

Franchisee-reported sales (in millions):
Dunkin’ Donuts U.S.	$	1,501.4	$	1,383.5	$	4,263.4	$	3,994.3
Dunkin’ Donuts International		161.5		142.1		477.1		428.5
Baskin-Robbins U.S.		148.1		148.3		398.6		406.6
Baskin-Robbins International		390.7		345.9		981.6		878.1

Total franchisee-reported sales	$	2,201.7	$	2,019.8	$	6,120.7	$	5,707.5
Systemwide sales growth		8.9%		6.6%		7.1%		6.1%
Comparable store sales growth (U.S. only):
Dunkin’ Donuts U.S.		6.0%		2.7%		4.3%		1.4%
Baskin-Robbins U.S.		1.7%		(5.8)%		(0.7)%		(6.1)%
Total revenues (in thousands)	$	163,508	$	149,531	$	459,693	$	427,359
Operating income (in thousands)		54,112		54,574		160,742		149,145
Adjusted operating income (in thousands)		75,947		62,601		197,739		177,415
Net income (in thousands)		7,412		18,842		22,851		42,117
Adjusted net income (in thousands)		31,343		23,658		65,582		61,295

Our financial results are largely driven by changes in systemwide sales, which include sales by all points of distribution, whether owned by Dunkin’ Brands or by its franchisees and licensees. While we do not record sales by franchisees or licensees as revenue, we believe that this information is important in obtaining an understanding of our financial performance. We believe systemwide sales growth and franchisee-reported sales information aid in understanding how we derive royalty revenue, assists readers in evaluating our performance relative to competitors, and indicates the strength of our franchised brands. Comparable store sales growth represents the growth in average weekly sales for restaurants that have been open at least 54 weeks that have reported sales in the current and comparable prior year week.

Overall growth in systemwide sales of 8.9% and 7.1% for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively, resulted from the following:

•

Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. systemwide sales growth of 8.3% and 6.6% for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively, as a result of 197 net new restaurants opened since September 25, 2010 and comparable store sales growth of 6.0% and 4.3%, respectively, driven by a combination of an increase in both transactions and average ticket. The increase in average ticket was driven primarily by three factors: shift in product mix towards iced beverages and premium breakfast sandwiches, increase in units per transaction, and an increase in pricing.

•

Baskin-Robbins International systemwide sales growth of 13.0% and 11.8% for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively, as a result of increased sales in South Korea and Japan, which resulted from favorable foreign exchange and strong sales, as well as increased sales in the Middle East.

•

Dunkin’ Donuts International systemwide sales growth of 13.7% and 11.4% for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively, which was driven by favorable foreign exchange and strong sales in South Korea, as well as increased sales in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

•

Baskin-Robbins U.S. systemwide sales declines of 0.1% and 1.9% for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively. The systemwide sales decline for the three months ended September 24, 2011 resulted from reduced points of distribution, offset by comparable store sales growth of 1.7%. The systemwide sales decline for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 resulted from a comparable store sales decline of 0.7%, as well as a reduced restaurant base.

The increase in total revenues of approximately $14.0 million, or 9.3%, for the three months ended September 24, 2011 as compared to the comparable period of 2010 primarily resulted from increased franchise fees and royalty income of $12.4 million and sales of ice cream products of $2.2 million, which were primarily driven by the overall increase in systemwide sales. The increase in total revenues of approximately $32.3 million, or 7.6%, for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 as compared to the comparable period of 2010 primarily resulted from increased franchise fees and royalty income of $25.6 million and sales of ice cream products of $8.4 million, both of which were also driven by the overall increase in systemwide sales, offset by a $1.9 million decline in other revenues resulting from fewer company-owned stores.

Operating income for the three months ended September 24, 2011 remained relatively flat with the prior year, decreasing $0.5 million, or 0.8%. This slight decline resulted primarily from a $12.2 million increase in general and administrative expenses driven by a $14.7 million expense related to the termination of the Sponsor management agreement upon the Company’s initial public offering, as well as a $2.6 million increase in the cost of ice cream products due to higher sales volumes and unfavorable commodity costs, offset by the $14.0 million increase in total revenues. Operating income increased $11.6 million, or 7.8%, for the nine months ended September 24, 2011, driven by the $25.6 million increase in franchise fees and royalty income and a $5.0 million decline in depreciation and amortization, offset by a $16.3 million increase in general and administrative expenses driven by the expense related to the termination of the Sponsor management agreement, as well as a $3.8 million decline in equity in net income of joint ventures.

Adjusted operating income increased $13.3 million, or 21.3%, for the three months ended September 24, 2011 primarily as a result of a $12.4 million increase in franchise fees and royalty income and a $2.4 million decrease in general and administrative expenses. Adjusted operating income increased $20.3 million, or 11.5%, for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 driven by a $25.6 million increase in franchise fees and royalty income and a $0.9 million decrease in occupancy expenses for franchised restaurants, offset by a $3.8 million decrease in joint venture income and a $1.9 million decrease in other revenues.

Net income declined $11.4 million, or 60.7%, for the three months ended September 24, 2011 resulting from an $18.1 million loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions recorded in the current quarter resulting from the completion of the initial public offering and related repayment of senior notes, offset by $5.8 million decline in the provision for income taxes. Net income declined $19.3 million, or 45.7%, for the nine months ended September 24, 2011, primarily driven by increased losses on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions of $30.5 million resulting from repayments of senior notes and amendments to the senior credit facility, as well as a $6.2 million increase in interest expense resulting from additional long-term debt obtained since the prior year. These declines in net income were offset by an increase in operating income of $11.6 million and a decrease in the provision for income taxes of $5.5 million.

Adjusted net income increased $7.7 million, or 32.5%, for the three months ended September 24, 2011 primarily as a result of a $13.3 million increase in adjusted operating income and a $1.6 million decrease in interest expense, offset by a $6.9 million increase in the provision for income taxes. Adjusted net income increased $4.3 million, or 7.0%, for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 driven by a $20.3 million increase in adjusted operating income, offset by a $10.2 million increase in the provision for income taxes and a $6.2 million increase in interest expense.

Adjusted operating income and adjusted net income are non-GAAP measures reflecting operating income and net income adjusted for amortization of intangible assets, impairment charges, and Sponsor management agreement termination fee, and, in the case of adjusted net income, loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions, net of the tax impact of such adjustments. The Company uses adjusted operating income and adjusted net income as key performance measures for the purpose of evaluating performance internally. We also believe adjusted operating income and adjusted net income provide our investors with useful information regarding our historical operating results. These non-GAAP measurements are not intended to replace the presentation of our financial results in accordance with GAAP. Use of the terms adjusted operating income and adjusted net income may differ from similar measures reported by other companies. Adjusted operating income and adjusted net income are reconciled from operating income and net income determined under GAAP as follows:


	Three months ended						Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010			September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010

	(In thousands)
Operating income.	$	54,112		$	54,574		$	160,742		$	149,145
Adjustments:
Sponsor termination fee		14,671			—			14,671			—
Amortization of other intangible assets		7,001			7,762			21,106			25,315
Impairment charges		163			265			1,220			2,955

Adjusted operating income.	$	75,947		$	62,601		$	197,739		$	177,415

Net income.	$	7,412		$	18,842		$	22,851		$	42,117
Adjustments:
Sponsor termination fee		14,671			—			14,671			—
Amortization of other intangible assets		7,001			7,762			21,106			25,315
Impairment charges		163			265			1,220			2,955
Loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions		18,050			—			34,222			3,693
Tax impact of adjustments⁽¹⁾		(15,954	)		(3,211	)		(28,488	)		(12,785	)

Adjusted net income.	$	31,343		$	23,658		$	65,582		$	61,295

(1)

Tax impact of adjustments calculated at a 40% effective tax rate for each period presented.

Earnings per share

Earnings and adjusted earnings per common share and pro forma common share for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010 were as follows:


	Three months ended						Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010			September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010

Earnings (loss) per share – basic and diluted:
Class L	$	4.46		$	1.25		$	6.14		$	3.69
Common		(1.01	)		(0.24	)		(2.00	)		(1.02	)
Diluted earnings per pro forma common share		0.07			0.19			0.22			0.43
Diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share		0.28			0.24			0.64			0.63

On August 1, 2011, the Company completed an initial public offering in which 22,250,000 shares of common stock were sold at an initial public offering price of $19.00 per share. Immediately prior to the offering, each share of the Company’s Class L common stock converted into 2.4338 shares of common stock. The number of common shares used in the calculations of diluted earnings per pro forma common share and diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 and September 25, 2010 give effect to the conversion of all outstanding shares of Class L common stock at the conversion factor of 2.4338 common shares for each Class L share, as if the conversion was completed at the beginning of the respective fiscal period. The calculations of diluted earnings per pro forma common share and diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share also include the dilutive effect of common restricted shares and stock options, using the treasury stock method. Shares sold in the offering are included in the diluted earnings per pro forma common share and diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share calculations beginning on the date that such shares were actually issued. Diluted earnings per pro forma common share is calculated using net income in accordance with GAAP. Diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share is calculated using adjusted net income, as defined above.

Diluted earnings per pro forma common share and diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share are not presentations made in accordance with GAAP, and our use of the terms diluted earnings per pro forma common share and diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share may vary from similar measures reported by others in our industry due to the potential differences in the method of calculation. Diluted earnings per pro forma common share and diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share should not be considered as alternatives to earnings (loss) per share derived in accordance with GAAP. Diluted earnings per pro forma common share and diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share have important limitations as an analytical tool and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. Because of these limitations, we rely primarily on our GAAP results. However, we believe that presenting diluted earnings per pro forma common share and diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share is appropriate to provide additional information to investors to compare our performance prior to and after the completion of our initial public offering and related conversion of Class L shares into common as well as to provide investors with useful information regarding our historical operating results. The following table sets forth the computation of diluted earnings per pro forma common share and diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share:


	Three months ended					Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010		September 24, 2011			September 25, 2010

Diluted earnings per pro forma common share:
Net income (in thousands)	$	7,412		$	18,842	$	22,851		$	42,117
Pro forma weighted average number of common shares – diluted:
Weighted average number of Class L shares over period in which Class L shares were outstanding⁽¹⁾		22,866,379			22,802,457		22,845,378			22,807,674
Adjustment to weight Class L shares over respective fiscal period⁽¹⁾		(15,328,012	)		—		(5,104,722	)		—

Weighted average number of Class L shares over fiscal period		7,538,367			22,802,457		17,740,656			22,807,674
Class L conversion factor		2.4338			2.4338		2.4338			2.4338

Weighted average number of converted Class L shares		18,347,071			55,497,206		43,177,665			55,509,904
Weighted average number of common shares		93,529,128			41,323,438		58,807,271			41,288,341

Pro forma weighted average number of common shares – basic		111,876,199			96,820,644		101,984,936			96,798,245
Incremental dilutive common shares⁽²⁾		1,401,643			225,445		735,242			190,867

Pro forma weighted average number of common shares – diluted		113,277,842			97,046,089		102,720,178			96,989,112

Diluted earnings per pro forma common share	$	0.07		$	0.19	$	0.22		$	0.43

Diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share:
Adjusted net income (in thousands)	$	31,343		$	23,658	$	65,582		$	61,295
Pro forma weighted average number of common shares – diluted		113,277,842			97,046,089		102,720,178			96,989,112

Diluted adjusted earnings per pro forma common share	$	0.28		$	0.24	$	0.64		$	0.63

(1)

The weighted average number of Class L shares in the actual Class L earnings per share calculation for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 represents the weighted average from the beginning of the period up through the date of conversion of the Class L shares into common shares. As such, the pro forma weighted average number of common shares includes an adjustment to the weighted average number of Class L shares outstanding to reflect the length of time the Class L shares were outstanding prior to conversion relative to the respective three and nine month periods. The converted Class L shares are already included in the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period after their conversion.

(2)

Represents the dilutive effect of restricted shares and stock options, using the treasury stock method.

Results of operations

Consolidated results of operations


	Three months ended									Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)					September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%

	(In thousands, except percentages)									(In thousands, except percentages)
Franchise fees and royalty income	$	104,562		92,125		12,437			13.5%	$	288,660		263,020		25,640			9.7%
Rental income		23,676		23,375		301			1.3%		69,950		69,807		143			0.2%
Sales of ice cream products		25,591		23,415		2,176			9.3%		73,532		65,116		8,416			12.9%
Other revenues		9,679		10,616		(937	)		(8.8)%		27,551		29,416		(1,865	)		(6.3)%

Total revenues	$	163,508		149,531		13,977			9.3%	$	459,693		427,359		32,334			7.6%

Total revenues for the three months ended September 24, 2011 increased $14.0 million, or 9.3%, driven by an increase in royalty income of $7.2 million, or 8.4%, mainly as a result of Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. systemwide sales growth, and a $5.2 million increase in franchise renewal income. Sales of ice cream products also contributed to the increase in total revenues, which were primarily driven by strong sales in the Middle East and Australia, as well as a December 2010 price increase that was implemented to offset higher commodity costs. Partially offsetting these revenue increases was a decline in other revenues of $0.9 million, which was primarily driven by a decline in sales at company-owned restaurants due to the resale of restaurants to franchisees.

Total revenues for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 increased $32.3 million, or 7.6%, driven by an increase in royalty income of $16.6 million, or 6.7%, mainly as a result of Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. systemwide sales growth, and an $8.3 million increase in franchise renewal income. Sales of ice cream products also increased $8.4 million, primarily driven by strong sales in the Middle East and Australia, as well as the price increase noted above. Partially offsetting these revenue increases was a decline of $1.9 million in other revenues driven by the resale of company-owned restaurants.


	Three months ended									Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)					September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%

	(In thousands, except percentages)
Occupancy expenses-franchised restaurants	$	13,073		12,657		416			3.3%	$	38,278		39,147		(869	)		(2.2)%
Cost of ice cream products		18,975		16,419		2,556			15.6%		52,795		44,568		8,227			18.5%
General and administrative expenses, net		71,465		59,220		12,245			20.7%		179,408		163,083		16,325			10.0%
Depreciation		6,128		6,211		(83	)		(1.3)%		18,350		19,159		(809	)		(4.2)%
Amortization		7,001		7,762		(761	)		(9.8)%		21,106		25,315		(4,209	)		(16.6)%
Impairment charges		163		265		(102	)		(38.5)%		1,220		2,955		(1,735	)		(58.7)%

Total operating costs and expenses	$	116,805		102,534		14,271			13.9%		311,157		294,227		16,930			5.8%

Equity in net income of joint ventures		7,409		7,577		(168	)		(2.2)%		12,206		16,013		(3,807	)		(23.8)%
Operating income	$	54,112		54,574		(462	)		(0.8)%	$	160,742		149,145		11,597			7.8%

Occupancy expenses for franchised restaurants for the three months ended September 24, 2011 increased $0.4 million, or 3.3%, from the prior year primarily due to lease reserves recorded for closed locations in the current year, offset by a decline in the number of leased properties. The decrease of $0.9 million, or 2.2%, in occupancy expense for franchised restaurants for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 primarily resulted from a decline in the number of leased properties.

Cost of ice cream products for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 increased 15.6% and 18.5%, respectively, as compared to increases in sales of ice cream products of 9.3% and 12.9%, respectively. The higher percentage increases in cost of ice cream products were primarily the result of unfavorable commodity prices and foreign exchange, slightly offset by increases in selling price.

The increases in general and administrative expenses of $12.2 million and $16.3 million for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively, were driven by an expense of $14.7 million related to the termination of the Sponsor management agreement upon completion of the Company’s initial public offering. Due to the termination of the Sponsor management agreement, the Company will no longer incur the $3.0 million annual management fee expense. Also contributing to the increases was a $2.6 million share-based compensation expense recorded upon completion of the initial public offering related to approximately 0.8 million restricted shares granted to employees that were not eligible to vest until completion of an initial public offering or change of control (performance condition). No future expense will be recorded related to this tranche of restricted shares. Personnel costs, excluding stock compensation, also increased $2.4 million and $9.8 million for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively, related to investment in our Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. contiguous growth strategy and higher projected incentive compensation payouts, offset by prior year costs associated with our executive chairman transition. Offsetting these increases were declines of $4.0 million and $5.5 million in professional fees and legal costs for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively, driven by reduced information technology expenses and legal settlement reserves. Additionally, cost of sales for company-owned restaurants declined $2.7 million and $5.5 million for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively, due to the resale of restaurants to franchisees.

The declines in depreciation expense for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 resulted primarily from assets becoming fully depreciated and the write-off of leasehold improvements upon terminations of lease agreements, slightly offset by depreciation on capital purchases.

The decrease in amortization expense for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 was driven by a license right intangible asset becoming fully amortized in July 2010, as well as terminations of lease agreements in the normal course of business resulting in the write-off of favorable lease intangible assets, which thereby reduced future amortization.

The decreases in impairment charges for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 resulted from the timing of lease terminations in the ordinary course, which results in the write-off of favorable lease intangible assets and leasehold improvements.

Equity in net income of joint ventures for the three months ended September 24, 2011 remained relatively flat with the prior year, decreasing less than $0.2 million, or 2.2%. The decline in equity in net income of joint ventures for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 of $3.8 million, or 23.8%, was driven by higher expenses for our South Korea joint venture and a negative impact of the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami on the Japan joint venture’s results.


	Three months ended									Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)					September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%

	(In thousands, except percentages)
Interest expense, net	$	23,927		25,611		(1,684	)		(6.6)%	$	86,502		80,598		5,904			7.3%
Loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions		18,050		—		18,050			n/a		34,222		3,693		30,529			826.7%
Other losses, net		423		4		419			10,475.0%		11		33		(22	)		(66.7)%

Total other expense	$	42,400		25,615		16,785			65.5%	$	120,735		84,324		36,411			43.2%

The decrease in net interest expense for the three months ended September 24, 2011 resulted primarily from a reduction in the average cost of borrowing due to the refinancing and re-pricing transactions, offset by an increase in the weighted average long-term debt outstanding. The increase in net interest expense for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 resulted primarily from the impact of incremental long-term debt outstanding exceeding the benefits resulting from reductions in the average cost of borrowing, specifically in the first quarter of 2011 prior to completing all re-pricing transactions and prior to the full repayment of the senior notes. As the senior notes were fully repaid upon completion of the initial public offering on August 1, 2011, interest expense is expected to decrease in the future. Based on long-term debt principal outstanding at September 24, 2011 of $1.49 billion and a stated interest rate of 4.00% as of that date, quarterly stated interest expense on long-term debt for the next quarter will be approximately $16.2 million, representing 14 weeks of expense, as compared to stated interest expense on long-term debt recorded during the three months ended September 24, 2011 of $22.1 million, representing 13 weeks of expense.

The loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions for the three months ended September 24, 2011 resulted from the completion of the initial public offering and related repayment of senior notes during the period, consisting primarily of the write-off of deferred financing costs paid and original issue discount related to the senior notes of $13.2 million, a prepayment premium on the senior notes of $1.9 million, and a re-pricing fee related to the senior credit facility that was contingent upon completion of the initial public offering of $3.0 million. Additionally, the loss on debt extinguishment for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 included losses related to the term loan re-pricing and upsize transactions completed in the first and second quarters of 2011, totaling $10.9 million related to the senior notes and $5.3 million related to the term loans. The loss on debt extinguishment recorded during the nine months ended September 25, 2010 resulted from the voluntary retirement of long-term securitization debt, which resulted in a $3.7 million loss.

Other losses, net, for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 were unfavorably impacted by fluctuations in the U.S. dollar against the Canadian dollar as compared to the corresponding periods in the prior year.


	Three months ended				Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010

	($ in thousands, except percentages)
Income before income taxes	$	11,712	$	28,959	$	40,007	$	64,821
Provision for income taxes		4,300		10,117		17,156		22,704
Effective tax rate		36.7%		34.9%		42.9%		35.0%

The increase in the effective tax rate for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 was primarily attributable to lower projected permanent differences for fiscal year 2011 related to our joint ventures and other foreign taxes, as well as a higher blended state tax rate. In addition, the effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 was impacted by enacted increases in state tax rates, which resulted in additional deferred tax expense of approximately $1.9 million in the nine months ended September 24, 2011.

Operating segments

We operate four reportable operating segments: Dunkin’ Donuts U.S., Dunkin’ Donuts International, Baskin-Robbins U.S., and Baskin-Robbins International. We evaluate the performance of our segments and allocate resources to them based on earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, impairment charges, foreign currency gains and losses, other gains and losses, and unallocated corporate charges, referred to as segment profit. Segment profit for the Dunkin’ Donuts International and Baskin-Robbins International segments include equity in net income from joint ventures. For a reconciliation to total revenues and net income, see the

notes to our consolidated financial statements. Revenues for all segments include only transactions with unaffiliated customers and include no intersegment revenues. Revenues not included in segment revenues include retail sales from company-owned restaurants, as well as revenue earned through arrangements with third parties in which our brand names are used and revenue generated from online training programs for franchisees that are not allocated to a specific segment. For purposes of evaluating segment profit, Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. includes the net operating income earned from company-owned restaurants.

Dunkin’ Donuts U.S.


	Three months ended								Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)				September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$		%		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$		%

	(In thousands, except percentages)
Royalty income	$	80,659		74,318		6,341		8.5%	$	228,285		214,393		13,892		6.5%
Franchise fees		9,653		4,277		5,376		125.7%		20,443		11,873		8,570		72.2%
Rental income		22,259		21,851		408		1.9%		65,588		65,173		415		0.6%
Other revenues		1,327		15		1,312		8,746.7%		3,189		1,173		2,016		171.9%

Total revenues		113,898		100,461		13,437		13.4%		317,505		292,612		24,893		8.5%
Segment profit		88,992		72,335		16,657		23.0%		242,305		213,568		28,737		13.5%

The increases in Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. revenues for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 were primarily driven by increases in royalty income of $6.3 million and $13.9 million, respectively, as a result of increases in systemwide sales, as well as increases in franchise fees of $5.4 million and $8.6 million, respectively, as a result of increased franchise renewal income. Also contributing to the increases in Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. revenues for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 were increases in other revenues of $1.3 million and $2.0 million, respectively, resulting primarily from franchisee incentives paid in the prior year recorded as reductions to revenue, as well as an increase in gains on refranchising transactions.

The increases in Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. segment profit for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 was primarily driven by the increases in total revenues of $13.4 million and $24.9 million, respectively. Also contributing to the increases in segment profit for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 were decreases of $4.4 million and $4.7 million, respectively, in professional fees, legal, and other general and administrative costs due to reduced legal settlement costs and reduced bad debt expenses. Additionally, the increase in segment profit for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 resulted from a decline in occupancy expenses of $0.8 million driven by additional lease reserves recorded in the prior year and a decline in the number of leased locations. Offsetting these increases in segment profit were increases of $1.0 million and $1.8 million in personnel costs and travel for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively, related to investment in our Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. contiguous growth strategy and higher projected incentive compensation payouts.

Dunkin’ Donuts International


	Three months ended										Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010			Increase (Decrease)					September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010			$			%		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%

	(In thousands, except percentages)
Royalty income	$	3,175		2,810			365			13.0%	$	9,472		8,289		1,183			14.3%
Franchise fees		405		689			(284	)		(41.2)%		1,645		1,607		38			2.4%
Rental income		49		74			(25	)		(33.8)%		213		226		(13	)		(5.8)%
Other revenues		40		(21	)		61			(290.5)%		39		15		24			160.0%

Total revenues		3,669		3,552			117			3.3%		11,369		10,137		1,232			12.2%
Segment profit		2,496		3,696			(1,200	)		(32.5)%		8,826		10,944		(2,118	)		(19.4)%

The increases in Dunkin’ Donuts International revenues for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 resulted primarily from increases in royalty income of $0.4 million and $1.2 million, respectively, driven by the increase in systemwide sales. Offsetting the increased revenues for the three months ended September 24, 2011 was a decrease of $0.3 million in franchise fees driven by fewer store openings.

The decreases in Dunkin’ Donuts International segment profit for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 were primarily driven by declines in income from the South Korea joint venture of $1.0 million and $2.5 million, respectively, as well as increases in personnel costs and travel of $0.2 million and $0.8 million, respectively. These declines in segment profit were offset by the respective increases in total revenues.

Baskin-Robbins U.S.


	Three months ended									Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)					September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%

	(In thousands, except percentages)
Royalty income	$	7,488		7,491		(3	)		0.0%	$	20,105		20,545		(440	)		(2.1)%
Franchise fees		357		333		24			7.2%		1,032		793		239			30.1%
Rental income		1,180		1,283		(103	)		(8.0)%		3,582		3,924		(342	)		(8.7)%
Sales of ice cream products		566		607		(41	)		(6.8)%		1,694		1,807		(113	)		(6.3)%
Other revenues		2,412		2,594		(182	)		(7.0)%		6,999		7,398		(399	)		(5.4)%

Total revenues		12,003		12,308		(305	)		(2.5)%		33,412		34,467		(1,055	)		(3.1)%
Segment profit		6,963		8,761		(1,798	)		(20.5)%		18,189		23,387		(5,198	)		(22.2)%

The declines in Baskin-Robbins U.S. revenues for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 primarily resulted from declines in royalty income and licensing income, consistent with the declines in systemwide sales. Additionally, rental income declined for both the three and nine month periods due to a reduction in the number of leased locations.

Baskin-Robbins U.S. segment profit for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 declined as a result of increased other general and administrative expenses of $1.3 million and $3.7 million, respectively, primarily related to the roll-out of a new point-of-sale system for Baskin-Robbins franchisees, as well as additional contributions to the Baskin-Robbins advertising fund to support national brand-building advertising. In addition to the declines in revenues, segment profit also declined due to increased personnel costs and travel of $0.2 million and $0.6 million for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively. For the nine months ended September 24, 2011, these declines in segment profit were offset by a $0.2 million decrease in occupancy costs due to a reduction in the number of leased locations.

Baskin-Robbins International


	Three months ended									Nine months ended
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)					September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		Increase (Decrease)
	September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%		September 24, 2011		September 25, 2010		$			%

	(In thousands, except percentages)
Royalty income	$	2,489		1,954		535			27.4%	$	6,617		4,642		1,975			42.5%
Franchise fees		336		253		83			32.8%		1,061		878		183			20.8%
Rental income		157		145		12			8.3%		461		423		38			9.0%
Sales of ice cream products		25,025		22,808		2,217			9.7%		71,838		63,309		8,529			13.5%
Other revenues		83		118		(35	)		(29.7)%		172		438		(266	)		(60.7)%

Total revenues		28,090		25,278		2,812			11.1%		80,149		69,690		10,459			15.0%
Segment profit		14,453		13,923		530			3.8%		33,069		34,891		(1,822	)		(5.2)%

The growth in Baskin-Robbins International revenues for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011 resulted from an increase in sales of ice cream products of $2.2 million and $8.5 million, respectively, which was primarily driven by strong sales in the Middle East and Australia, as well as a December 2010 price increase that was implemented to offset higher commodity costs. Royalty income also increased $0.5 million and $2.0 million for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2011, respectively, primarily as a result of higher sales and additional royalties earned in Australia directly from franchisees following the termination of a master license agreement, as well as higher sales in Japan and South Korea.

The increase in Baskin-Robbins International segment profit of $0.5 million for the three months ended September 24, 2011 resulted primarily from a $0.8 million increase in joint venture income related to the Baskin-Robbins businesses in South Korea and Japan, the $0.5 million increase in royalty income noted above, and a $0.3 million decrease in other general and administrative expenses as a result of reduced bad debt expenses. Offsetting these increases in segment profit were a $0.7 million increase in personnel costs and travel, as well as a $0.4 million decline in net margin on ice cream sales driven by unfavorable commodity costs and foreign exchange.

The decline in Baskin-Robbins International segment profit of $1.8 million for the nine months ended September 24, 2011 resulted primarily from an increase in personnel costs and travel of $2.2 million and a decrease in joint venture income of $1.3 million for the Baskin-Robbins businesses in South Korea and Japan. The decline in joint venture income for Japan primarily resulted from the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami, while South Korea joint venture income declined as a result of increased operating expenses. Offsetting these declines in segment profit was an increase in royalty income of $2.0 million, as noted above.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of September 24, 2011, we held $181.8 million of cash and cash equivalents, which included $69.7 million of cash held for advertising funds and reserved for gift card/certificate programs. In addition, as of September 24, 2011, we had a borrowing capacity of $88.9 million under our $100.0 million revolving credit facility. During the nine months ended September 24, 2011, net cash provided by operating activities was $71.0 million, as compared to $92.2 million for the nine months ended September 25, 2010. Net cash provided by operating activities for the nine months ended September 25, 2010 included a cash inflow of $18.2 million resulting from fluctuations in restricted cash balances related to our securitization indebtedness. Following the redemption and discharge of the securitization indebtedness in the fourth quarter of 2010, such amounts are no longer restricted, and therefore, there was no operating cash flow impact from restricted cash for the nine months ended September 24, 2011.

Net cash provided by operating activities of $71.0 million during the nine months ended September 24, 2011 was primarily driven by net income of $22.9 million (increased by depreciation and amortization of $39.5 million and $29.3 million of other net non-cash reconciling adjustments) and dividends received from joint ventures of $7.4 million, offset by $28.0 million of changes in operating assets and liabilities. During the nine months ended September 24, 2011, we invested $12.8 million in capital additions to property and equipment. Net cash used in financing activities was $12.2 million during the nine months ended September 24, 2011, driven primarily by the repayment of long-term debt, net of proceeds from additional borrowings under the term loans, totaling $385.4 million and costs associated with the term loan re-pricing and upsize transactions of $20.1 million, offset by proceeds from our initial public offering, net of offering costs paid, of $390.1 million and proceeds from other issuances of common stock of $3.2 million.

On November 23, 2010, we consummated a refinancing transaction whereby Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. (i) issued and sold $625.0 million aggregate principal amount of 9 5/8% senior notes due 2018 and (ii) borrowed $1.25 billion in term loans and secured a $100.0 million revolving credit facility from a consortium of banks. The senior

secured credit facility was amended on February 18, 2011, primarily to obtain more favorable interest rate margins and to increase the term loan borrowings under the senior secured credit facility to $1.40 billion. The full $150.0 million increase in term loan borrowings under the senior secured credit facility was used to redeem an equal principal amount of the senior notes at a price of 100.5% of par on March 21, 2011. On May 24, 2011 we further increased the size of the term loan facility by an additional $100.0 million to approximately $1.50 billion, which was again used to redeem an equal principal amount of the senior notes.

On August 1, 2011, the Company completed an initial public offering in which we sold 22,250,000 shares of common stock at an initial public offering price of $19.00 per share, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $390.0 million after deducting underwriter discounts and commissions and offering-related expenses paid or payable by the Company. The Company used a portion of the net proceeds from the initial public offering to redeem the remaining $375.0 million aggregate principal amount of the senior notes at 100.5% plus accrued and unpaid interest, with the remaining net proceeds being used for working capital and general corporate purposes.

The senior credit facility is guaranteed by certain of Dunkin’ Brands, Inc.’s wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries and includes a term loan facility and a revolving credit facility. Following the May 2011 amendment, the aggregate borrowings available under the senior secured credit facility are approximately $1.6 billion, consisting of a full-drawn approximately $1.5 billion term loan facility and an undrawn $100.0 million revolving credit facility under which there was $88.9 million in available borrowings and $11.1 million of letters of credit outstanding as of September 24, 2011. Borrowings under the term loan bear interest, payable at least quarterly. The senior secured credit facility requires principal amortization repayments to be made on term loan borrowings equal to approximately $15.0 million per calendar year, payable in quarterly installments through September 2017. The final scheduled principal payment on the outstanding borrowings under the term loan is due in November 2017. Borrowings under the revolving credit facility (excluding letters of credit) bear interest, payable at least quarterly. We also pay a 0.50% commitment fee per annum on the unused portion of the revolver. The fee for letter of credit amounts outstanding is 3.00%. The revolving credit facility expires in November 2015.

As of September 24, 2011, borrowings under the senior credit facility bear interest at a rate per annum equal to an applicable margin plus, at our option, either (1) a base rate determined by reference to the highest of (a) the Federal Funds rate plus 0.5%, (b) the prime rate (c) the LIBOR rate plus 1%, and (d) 2.00% or (2) a LIBOR rate provided that LIBOR shall not be lower than 1.00%. The applicable margin under the senior credit facility is 2.00% for loans based upon the base rate and 3.00% for loans based upon the LIBOR rate.

The senior credit facility requires us to comply on a quarterly basis with certain financial covenants, including a maximum ratio of debt to adjusted EBITDA (the “leverage ratio”) and a minimum ratio of adjusted EBITDA to interest expense (the “interest coverage ratio”), each of which becomes more restrictive over time. For fiscal year 2011, the terms of the senior credit facility require that we maintain a leverage ratio of no more than 8.60 to 1.00 and a minimum interest coverage ratio of 1.45 to 1.00. The leverage ratio financial covenant will become more restrictive over time and will require us to maintain a leverage ratio of no more than 6.25 to 1.00 by the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. The interest coverage ratio financial covenant will also become more restrictive over time and will require us to maintain an interest coverage ratio of no less than 1.95 to 1.00 by the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. Failure to comply with either of these covenants would result in an event of default under our senior credit facility unless waived by our senior credit facility lenders. An event of default under our senior credit facility can result in the acceleration of our indebtedness under the facility. Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure used to determine our compliance with certain covenants contained in our senior credit facility, including our leverage ratio. Adjusted EBITDA is defined in our senior credit facility as net income/(loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and impairment of long-lived assets, as adjusted, with respect to the twelve months ended September 24, 2011, for the items summarized in the table

below. Adjusted EBITDA is not a presentation made in accordance with GAAP, and our use of the term adjusted EBITDA varies from others in our industry due to the potential inconsistencies in the method of calculation and differences due to items subject to interpretation. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to net income/(loss), operating income or any other performance measures derived in accordance with GAAP, as a measure of operating performance or as an alternative to cash flows as a measure of liquidity. Adjusted EBITDA has important limitations as an analytical tool and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. Because of these limitations we rely primarily on our GAAP results. However, we believe that presenting adjusted EBITDA is appropriate to provide additional information to investors to demonstrate compliance with our financing covenants. As of September 24, 2011, we were in compliance with our senior credit facility financial covenants, including a leverage ratio of 4.6 to 1 and an interest coverage ratio of 2.7 to 1, which were calculated for the twelve months ended September 24, 2011 based upon the adjustments to EBITDA, as provided for under the terms of our senior credit facility. The following is a reconciliation of our net income to such adjusted EBITDA for the twelve months ended September 24, 2011 (in thousands):


	Twelve months ended September 24, 2011

Net income	$	7,595
Interest expense		119,021
Income tax expense (benefit)		(12,963	)
Depreciation and amortization		52,808
Impairment of long-lived assets		5,340

EBITDA	$	171,801
Adjustments:
Non-cash adjustments(a)	$	6,941
Transaction costs(b)		1,845
Sponsor management fees(c)		17,170
Loss on debt extinguishment and refinancing transactions(d)		92,484
Senior executive transition and severance(e)		883
New market entry(f)		1,218
Franchisee-related restructuring(g)		860
Technology and market related initiatives(h)		4,612
Other(i)		2,903

Total adjustments	$	128,916

Adjusted EBITDA	$	300,717

(a)

Represents non-cash adjustments, including stock compensation expense, legal reserves, and other non-cash gains and losses.

(b)

Represents direct and indirect cost and expenses related to the Company’s refinancing, dividend, and initial public offering transactions.

(c)

Represents annual fees paid to the Sponsors under a management agreement, which terminated upon the consummation of the initial public offering in July 2011.

(d)

Represents gains/losses recorded and related transaction costs associated with the refinancing of long-term debt, including the write-off of deferred financing costs and original issue discount, as well as pre-payment premiums.

(e)

Represents severance and related benefits costs associated with non-recurring reorganizations.

(f)

Represents one-time costs and fees associated with entry into new markets.

(g)

Represents one-time costs of franchisee-related restructuring programs.

(h)

Represents costs associated with various franchisee information technology and one-time market research programs.

(i)

Represents the net impact of other non-recurring and individually insignificant adjustments.

Based upon our current level of operations and anticipated growth, we believe that the cash generated from our operations and amounts available under our revolving credit facility will be adequate to meet our anticipated debt service requirements, capital expenditures and working capital needs for at least the next

twelve months. We believe that we will be able to meet these obligations even if we experience no growth in sales or profits. There can be no assurance, however, that our business will generate sufficient cash flows from operations or that future borrowings will be available under our revolving credit facility or otherwise to enable us to service our indebtedness, including our senior secured credit facility, or to make anticipated capital expenditures. Our future operating performance and our ability to service, extend or refinance the senior secured credit facility will be subject to future economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our control.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In December 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued new guidance to amend the criteria for performing the second step of the goodwill impairment test for reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts and requires performing the second step if qualitative factors indicate that it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists. This new guidance is effective for the Company beginning in fiscal year 2012. We do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our goodwill assessment or our consolidated financial statements.

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

There has been no material change in the foreign exchange risk or interest rate risk discussed in “Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations” included in the Prospectus.

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of September 24, 2011. The term “disclosure controls and procedures,” as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, means controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the company’s management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Based on the evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of September 24, 2011, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

Part II. Other Information

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

Item 1A.

Risk Factors.

There have been no material changes from the risk factors disclosed in the Prospectus, except as noted below.

Our tax returns and positions are subject to review and audit by federal, state and local taxing authorities and adverse outcomes resulting from examination of our income or other tax returns could adversely affect our operating results and financial condition.

The federal income tax returns of the Company for fiscal years 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 are currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), and the IRS has proposed adjustments for fiscal years 2006 and 2007 to increase our taxable income as it relates to our gift card program, specifically to record taxable income upon the activation of gift cards. We have filed a protest to the IRS’s proposed adjustments, and we believe we have alternative grounds to appeal or settle on should this position be denied (see Note 12 of the notes to our unaudited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein). As described in Note 12 of the notes to our unaudited consolidated financial statements included herein, if the IRS were to prevail in this matter the proposed adjustments would result in additional taxable income of approximately $58.9 million for fiscal years 2006 and 2007 and approximately $26.5 million of additional federal and state taxes and interest owed, net of federal and state benefits. If the IRS prevails, a cash payment would be required and the additional taxable income would represent temporary differences that will be deductible in future years. Therefore, the potential tax expense attributable to the IRS adjustments for fiscal years 2006 and 2007 would be limited to $2.9 million, consisting of federal and state interest, net of federal and state benefits. In addition, if the IRS were to prevail in respect of fiscal years 2006 and 2007 it is likely to make similar claims for years subsequent to fiscal 2007 and the potential additional federal and state taxes and interest owed, net of federal and state benefits, for fiscal years 2008, 2009 and 2010, computed on a similar basis to the IRS method used for fiscal years 2006 and 2007, and factoring in for the timing of our gift card uses and activations, would be approximately $19.6 million. The corresponding potential tax expense impact attributable to these later fiscal years, 2008 through 2010, would be approximately $0.7 million. In October 2011, representatives of the Company met with the IRS appeals officer. Based on that meeting, the Company proposed a settlement related to this issue and is awaiting a response from the IRS. If our settlement proposal is accepted as presented, we expect to make a cash tax payment in an amount that is less than the amounts proposed by the IRS to cumulatively adjust our tax method of accounting for our gift card program through the tax year ended December 25, 2010. No assurance can be made that a settlement can be reached, or that we will otherwise prevail in the final resolution of this matter. An unfavorable outcome from any tax audit could result in higher tax costs, penalties, and interests, thereby negatively and adversely impacting our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

During the fiscal quarter ended September 24, 2011, we issued 29,282 shares of our common stock upon the exercise of outstanding stock options by certain of our employees for an aggregate purchase price of $129,407.

The shares were issued in transactions that were exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act, including Rule 701 promulgated thereunder.

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 5.

Other Information

None.

Item 6.

Exhibits

(a) Exhibits:



31.1		Principal Executive Officer Certification Pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14 as Adopted Pursuant to the Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2		Principal Financial Officer Certification Pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14 as Adopted Pursuant to the Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1		Principal Executive Officer Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2		Principal Financial Officer Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Ex. 101.INS*		XBRL Instance Document

Ex. 101.SCH*		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

Ex. 101.CAL*		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

Ex. 101.LAB*		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

Ex. 101.PRE*		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

Ex. 101.DEF*		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

In accordance with Regulation S-T, the XBRL-related information in Exhibit 101 to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q shall be deemed to be “furnished” and not “filed.”

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

DUNKIN’ BRANDS GROUP, INC.

Date: November 1, 2011

By:

/s/ Nigel Travis

Nigel Travis,

Chief Executive Officer