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

FORM 10-Q

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

 

For the Quarterly Period Ended December 27, 2006

 

Commission File Number 1-10275

 

BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

6820 LBJ FREEWAY, DALLAS, TEXAS  75240

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)

 

(972) 980-9917

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes  x        No  o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer  x        Accelerated filer  o          Non-accelerated filer  o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes  o        No  x

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

 

BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

 

INDEX

 

 

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PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)

 

		December 27, 2006			June 28, 2006
		(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	66,632		$	55,615
Accounts receivable		76,763			52,540
Inventories		37,515			40,330
Prepaid expenses and other		81,083			85,187
Deferred income taxes		19,590			8,638
Total current assets		281,583			242,310
Property and Equipment, at Cost:
Land		279,975			279,369
Buildings and leasehold improvements		1,813,664			1,715,917
Furniture and equipment		750,621			745,812
Construction-in-progress		96,819			94,734
		2,941,079			2,835,832
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization		(1,085,357		)	(1,043,108		)
Net property and equipment		1,855,722			1,792,724
Other Assets:
Goodwill		145,640			145,479
Deferred income taxes		6,463			—
Other		45,124			41,266
Total other assets		197,227			186,745
Total assets		$	2,334,532		$	2,221,779
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Current installments of long-term debt		$	2,200		$	2,197
Accounts payable		141,314			151,216
Accrued liabilities		382,531			314,509
Income taxes payable		78,738			29,453
Total current liabilities		604,783			497,375
Long-term debt, less current installments		487,387			500,515
Deferred income taxes		—			7,016
Other liabilities		155,003			141,041
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 8)
Shareholders’ Equity:
Common stock - 250,000,000 authorized shares; $0.10 par value; 176,246,666 shares issued and 122,809,973 shares outstanding at December 27, 2006, and 176,246,666 shares issued and 125,306,825 shares outstanding at June 28, 2006		17,625			17,625
Additional paid-in capital		426,875			406,626
Accumulated other comprehensive income		826			773
Retained earnings		1,674,894			1,602,786
		2,120,220			2,027,810
Less:
Treasury stock, at cost (53,436,693 shares at December 27, 2006 and 50,939,841 shares at June 28, 2006)		(1,032,861		)	(951,978		)
Total shareholders’ equity		1,087,359			1,075,832
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity		$	2,334,532		$	2,221,779

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Income
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

 

		Thirteen Week Periods Ended						Twenty-Six Week Periods Ended
		December 27, 2006			December 28, 2005			December 27, 2006			December 28, 2005
Revenues		$	1,070,587		$	1,009,083		$	2,110,522		$	1,984,979
Operating Costs and Expenses:
Cost of sales		299,612			287,305			585,119			562,463
Restaurant expenses		594,400			555,371			1,174,979			1,098,143
Depreciation and amortization		48,743			47,602			96,974			94,313
General and administrative		47,026			51,667			97,291			98,805
Restructure charges and other impairments		10,630			1,312			10,630			2,479
Total operating costs and expenses		1,000,411			943,257			1,964,993			1,856,203
Operating income		70,176			65,826			145,529			128,776
Interest expense		6,614			6,198			12,851			11,565
Other, net		(795		)	(20		)	(1,632		)	(184		)
Income before provision for income taxes		64,357			59,648			134,310			117,395
Provision for income taxes		20,165			20,278			42,479			39,583
Income from continuing operations		44,192			39,370			91,831			77,812
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		—			3,507			—			(3,181		)
Net income		$	44,192		$	42,877		$	91,831		$	74,631
Basic net income per share:
Income from continuing operations		$	0.36		$	0.31		$	0.74		$	0.60
Income (loss) from discontinued operations		$	—		$	0.02		$	—		$	(0.03	)
Net income per share		$	0.36		$	0.33		$	0.74		$	0.57
Diluted net income per share:
Income from continuing operations		$	0.35		$	0.30		$	0.73		$	0.59
Income (loss) from discontinued operations		$	—		$	0.03		$	—		$	(0.03	)
Net income per share		$	0.35		$	0.33		$	0.73		$	0.56
Basic weighted average shares outstanding		123,451			128,970			123,835			130,364
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding		126,641			131,427			126,339			132,626
Cash dividends per share		$	0.09		$	0.07		$	0.16		$	0.07

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)

 

		Twenty-Six Week Periods Ended
		December 27, 2006			December 28, 2005
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net income		$	91,831		$	74,631
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations:
Depreciation and amortization		96,974			94,313
Restructure charges and other impairments		10,630			2,479
Stock-based compensation		18,808			19,166
Deferred income taxes		(24,462		)	(16,387		)
Gain on sale of assets		(696		)	(3,570		)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes		—			3,181
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding effects of dispositions:
Accounts receivable		(24,102		)	(26,382		)
Inventories		2,537			10,777
Prepaid expenses and other		5,764			3,935
Other assets		(4,297		)	21,486
Current income taxes		47,331			27,591
Accounts payable		(9,902		)	14,350
Accrued liabilities		68,881			77,669
Other liabilities		13,962			(21,895)
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations		293,259			281,344
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Payments for property and equipment		(194,763		)	(164,227		)
Proceeds from sale of assets		23,574			11,745
Payments for purchases of restaurants		—			(23,095		)
Net cash used in investing activities of continuing operations		(171,189		)	(175,577		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Purchases of treasury stock		(119,239		)	(167,047		)
Proceeds from issuances of treasury stock		38,502			18,268
Payments of dividends		(19,425		)	(8,585		)
Net (payments) borrowings on credit facilities		(12,051		)	68,500
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation		1,954			732
Payments on long-term debt		(794		)	(782)
Net cash used in financing activities of continuing operations		(111,053		)	(88,914		)
Cash Flows from Discontinued Operations (Revised – Note 1):
Net cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations		—			7,890
Net cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations		—			(6,706		)
Net cash provided by discontinued operations		—			1,184
Net change in cash and cash equivalents		11,017			18,037
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		55,615			41,859
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period		$	66,632		$	59,896

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)

1.     BASIS OF PRESENTATION

References to “Brinker,” “the Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” in this Form 10-Q are references to Brinker International, Inc. and its subsidiaries and any predecessor companies of Brinker International, Inc.

Our consolidated financial statements as of December 27, 2006 and June 28, 2006 and for the thirteen week and twenty-six week periods ended December 27, 2006 and December 28, 2005 have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).  We  own, operate, or franchise various restaurant brands under the names of Chili’s Grill & Bar (“Chili’s”), Romano’s Macaroni Grill (“Macaroni Grill”), On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina (“On The Border”), and Maggiano’s Little Italy (“Maggiano’s”).  In September 2005, we entered into an agreement to sell Corner Bakery Cafe (“Corner Bakery”).  The sale of the brand was completed in February 2006.  As a result, Corner Bakery is presented as discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

The information furnished herein reflects all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring accruals and adjustments) which are, in our opinion, necessary to fairly state the interim operating results for the respective periods.  However, these operating results are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full fiscal year.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been omitted pursuant to SEC rules and regulations. The notes to the consolidated financial statements (unaudited) should be read in conjunction with the notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in the June 28, 2006 Form 10-K. We believe the disclosures are sufficient for interim financial reporting purposes.

In November 2006 the Board of Directors declared and paid a three-for-two stock split, effected in the form of a 50% stock dividend. As a result of the split, approximately 58.7 million shares of common stock were issued in November 2006. All references to the number of shares and per share amounts of common stock have been restated to reflect the stock split. Shareholders’ equity accounts have been restated to reflect the reclassification of the par value of the increase in issued common shares from the retained earnings account to the common stock account.

We have revised our statement of cash flows for the twenty-six week period ended December 28, 2005 to separately disclose the operating and investing cash flows attributable to discontinued operations, which was reported on a combined basis as a single amount in the prior period.  Beginning December 29, 2005, straight-line rent incurred during the construction period is included in rent expense pursuant to FASB Staff Position 13-1 “Accounting for Rental Costs Incurred During a Construction Period” (“FSP 13-1”).  These changes have no effect on our net income or financial position as previously reported.

2.     STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

Effective June 30, 2005, we adopted SFAS No. 123 (Revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment,” (“SFAS 123R”), which requires the measurement and recognition of compensation cost at fair value for all share-based payments, including stock options.  Stock-based compensation includes compensation expense, recognized over the applicable vesting periods, for new share-based awards and for share-based awards granted prior to, but not yet vested, as of June 29, 2005. Stock-based compensation totaled approximately $6.8 million and $11.4 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2007 and 2006, respectively, and $18.8 million and $19.2 million for year-to-date fiscal 2007 and 2006, respectively.

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3.       EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the reporting period.  Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock.  For the calculation of diluted net income per share, the basic weighted average number of shares is increased by the dilutive effect of stock options and restricted share awards determined using the treasury stock method.  Due to the antidilutive effect, options to purchase approximately 1.1 million and 3.5 million shares of common stock at December 27, 2006 and December 28, 2005, respectively, were not included in the dilutive earnings per share calculation.

4.     RESTRUCTURE CHARGES AND OTHER IMPAIRMENTS

During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, we made the decision to close restaurants based on a comprehensive analysis that examined restaurants not meeting minimum return on investment thresholds and certain other operating performance criteria.  As a result of this analysis, we recorded a $10.6 million charge for long-lived asset impairments. The remaining carrying values of the long-lived assets associated with the closed restaurants totaled approximately $3.7 million at December 27, 2006.  The fair value of the long-lived assets was primarily based on estimates from third party real estate brokers who examined comparable property sales values in the respective markets in which the restaurants operate.

5.     DISPOSITION OF CORNER BAKERY

In September 2005, we entered into an agreement to sell Corner Bakery. The sale of the brand was completed in February 2006.  There was no operating activity during the first two quarters of fiscal 2007 related to Corner Bakery. We have reported the results of operations of Corner Bakery as discontinued operations in the first two quarters of fiscal 2006 which consist of the following (in thousands):

		Thirteen Week Periods Ended December 28, 2005			Twenty-six Week Periods Ended December 28, 2005
Revenues		$	47,565		$	91,940
Income before income tax expense from discontinued operations		$	6,547		$	10,853
Income tax expense		2,462			4,081
Net income from discontinued operations		4,085			6,772
Loss on sale of Corner Bakery, net of taxes (1)		(578		)	(9,953		)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		$	3,507		$	(3,181	)

 

(1)          The sale of Corner Bakery resulted in a taxable gain due to $11.0 million of goodwill not being deductible for tax purposes. The loss on sale includes tax expense totaling $634,000.

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6.     SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

The Board of Directors authorized an increase in the stock repurchase plan of $450.0 million in August 2006, bringing the total to $1,760.0 million.  Pursuant to our stock repurchase plan, we repurchased approximately 4.5 million shares of our common stock for $119.2 million during the first two quarters of fiscal 2007.  As of December 27, 2006, approximately $450.2 million was available under our share repurchase authorizations.  Our stock repurchase plan will be used to return capital to shareholders and to minimize the dilutive impact of stock options and other share-based awards.  We will consider additional share repurchases based on several factors, including our cash position, share price, operational liquidity, and planned investment and financing needs.  The repurchased common stock is reflected as a reduction of shareholders’ equity.

7.     SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

Cash paid for interest and income taxes for the first two quarters of fiscal 2007 and 2006 is as follows (in thousands):

		December 27, 2006			December 28, 2005
Income taxes, net of refunds		$	17,657		$	32,365
Interest, net of amounts capitalized		12,505			13,434

 

Non-cash investing and financing activities for the first two quarters of fiscal 2007 and 2006 are as follows (in thousands):

		December 27, 2006			December 28, 2005
Retirement of fully depreciated assets		$	33,107		$	39,734
Decrease in fair value of interest rate swaps		—			(4,946		)

 

8.     CONTINGENCIES

As of December 27, 2006, we guarantee lease payments totaling $85.6 million as a result of the sale of certain brands and the sale of restaurants to franchisees.  This amount represents the maximum potential liability of future payments under the guarantees.  These leases have been assigned to the buyers and expire at the end of the respective lease terms, which range from fiscal 2007 through fiscal 2020.  We remain secondarily liable for the leases.  In the event of default, the indemnity and default clauses in our assignment agreements govern our ability to pursue and recover damages incurred.  No liability has been recorded as of December 27, 2006.

Certain current and former hourly restaurant employees filed a lawsuit against us in California Superior Court alleging violations of California labor laws with respect to meal and rest breaks.  The lawsuit seeks penalties and attorney’s fees and was certified as a class action in July 2006.  The California Court of Appeals stayed all trial court activity in December 2006 and is currently reviewing the certification of the class.  We intend to vigorously defend our position.  It is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the possible loss or range of loss, if any.

We are engaged in various legal proceedings and have certain unresolved claims pending. The ultimate liability, if any, for the aggregate amounts claimed cannot be determined at this time. However, based upon consultation with legal counsel, we are of the opinion that there are no matters pending or threatened which are expected to have a material adverse effect, individually or in the aggregate, on our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

9.              SUBSEQUENT EVENT

In January 2007, we entered into an agreement with Pepper Dining, Inc. to sell 89 company-owned Chili’s restaurants.  This decision is the result of our strategy to increase the percentage of franchised restaurants through new and existing franchisees.  The net assets to be sold as of December 27, 2006 totaled approximately $115.0 million and consisted primarily of property and equipment.  The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 upon completion of customary due diligence and closing procedures.  We expect to record a gain in the financial statements at the time the sale is complete.

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Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following table sets forth selected operating data as a percentage of total revenues for the periods indicated. All information is derived from the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

		Thirteen Week Periods Ended				Twenty-Six Week Periods Ended
		December 27, 2006		December 28, 2005		December 27, 2006		December 28, 2005
Revenues		100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%
Operating Costs and Expenses:
Cost of sales		28.0	%	28.5	%	27.7	%	28.3	%
Restaurant expenses		55.5	%	55.0	%	55.7	%	55.3	%
Depreciation and amortization		4.5	%	4.7	%	4.6	%	4.8	%
General and administrative		4.4	%	5.2	%	4.6	%	5.0	%
Restructure charges and other impairments		1.0	%	0.1	%	0.5	%	0.1	%
Total operating costs and expenses		93.4	%	93.5	%	93.1	%	93.5	%
Operating income		6.6	%	6.5	%	6.9	%	6.5	%
Interest expense		0.6	%	0.6	%	0.6	%	0.6	%
Other, net		0.0	%	0.0	%	(0.1	)%	0.0	%
Income before provision for income taxes		6.0	%	5.9	%	6.4	%	5.9	%
Provision for income taxes		1.9	%	2.0	%	2.0	%	2.0	%
Income from continuing operations		4.1	%	3.9	%	4.4	%	3.9	%
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		—		0.3	%	—		(0.1	)%
Net income		4.1	%	4.2	%	4.4	%	3.8	%

 

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The following table details the number of restaurant openings during the second quarter and year-to-date, total restaurants open at the end of the second quarter, and total projected openings in fiscal 2007.

 

		Second Quarter Openings				Year-to-Date Openings				Total Open at End Of Second Quarter				Projected Openings
		Fiscal 2007		Fiscal 2006		Fiscal 2007		Fiscal 2006		Fiscal 2007		Fiscal 2006		Fiscal 2007
Chili’s:
Company-owned		28		23		56		45		944		863		125-130
Franchised		4		5		8		12		202		159		10-15
Total		32		28		64		57		1,146		1,022		135-145
Macaroni Grill:
Company-owned		1		—		3		4		224		223		4-5
Franchised		2		1		2		1		13		7		3-4
Total		3		1		5		5		237		230		7-9
Maggiano’s		1		2		2		4		39		37		4-5
On The Border:
Company-owned		3		4		5		6		128		122		12-14
Franchised		—		—		2		1		23		19		4-6
Total		3		4		7		7		151		141		16-20
Corner Bakery:
Company-owned		—		1		—		4		—		89		—
Franchised		—		—		—		—		—		3		—
Total		—		1		—		4		—		92		—
International:
Company-owned		—		—		—		—		5		5		—
Franchised		11		3		15		6		134		111		38-41
Total		11		3		15		6		139		116		38-41
Grand Total		50		39		93		83		1,712		1,638		200-220

 

At December 27, 2006, we owned the land and buildings for 316 of the 1,340 company-owned restaurants.  The net book values of the land and buildings associated with these restaurants totaled $268.9 million and $270.1 million, respectively.

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OVERVIEW

At December 27, 2006, we owned, operated, or franchised 1,712 restaurants.  We intend to continue the expansion of our restaurant brands by opening restaurants in strategically desirable markets. The restaurant site selection process is critical to our long-term success and we devote significant effort to the investigation of new locations utilizing a variety of sophisticated analytical techniques. We intend to concentrate on the development of certain identified markets to achieve penetration levels deemed desirable in order to improve competitive position, marketing potential and profitability. Expansion efforts will be focused not only on major metropolitan areas, but also on smaller market areas and non-traditional locations (such as airports and food courts) that can adequately support any of our restaurant brands.  In addition, we intend to pursue domestic and international franchise expansion to achieve our goal of increasing franchise ownership of our brands from 20% to approximately 30% through an active program of franchising company-owned restaurants and accelerated development commitments from franchisees.  Future franchise development agreements are expected to remain limited to enterprises having significant restaurant or enterprise management experience and proven financial ability to develop multi-restaurant operations.  The specific rate at which we are able to open new restaurants is determined by our success in locating satisfactory sites, negotiating acceptable lease or purchase terms, securing appropriate local governmental permits and approvals, and by our capacity to supervise construction and recruit and train management personnel.

The restaurant industry is a highly competitive business, which is sensitive to changes in economic conditions, trends in lifestyles and fluctuating costs. Operating margins for restaurants are susceptible to fluctuations in prices of commodities, which include among other things, beef, pork, chicken, seafood, dairy, cheese, produce, energy and other necessities to operate a restaurant.  Additionally, the restaurant industry is characterized by a high initial capital investment, coupled with high labor costs.

REVENUES

Revenues for the second quarter of fiscal 2007 increased to $1,070.6 million, 6.1% over the $1,009.1 million generated for the same quarter of fiscal 2006. Revenues for the twenty-six week period ended December 27, 2006 rose 6.3% to $2,110.5 million from the $1,985.0 million generated for the same period of fiscal 2006. The increase was primarily attributable to a net increase of 90 company-owned restaurants (excluding Corner Bakery) since December 28, 2005, partially offset by a decrease in comparable restaurant sales. We increased our capacity for the second quarter and year-to-date of fiscal 2007 by 7.8% and 8.1%, respectively, compared to the respective prior year periods. Comparable restaurant sales decreased 2.1% for the second quarter and year-to-date from the same periods of fiscal 2006.  Menu prices in the aggregate increased 1.9% for the second quarter and 2.3% for year-to-date fiscal 2007 as compared to the same periods of fiscal 2006.

COSTS AND EXPENSES

Cost of sales, as a percent of revenues, decreased 0.5% and 0.6% for the second quarter and year-to-date of fiscal 2007 as compared to the same periods of fiscal 2006.  The decreases were primarily due to an increase in menu prices and favorable commodity price changes for beef, chicken and cheeses, partially offset by an unfavorable product mix shift for our ribs as a result of Chili’s promotions during the second quarter of fiscal 2007.

Restaurant expenses, as a percent of revenues, increased 0.5% and 0.4% for the second quarter and year-to-date fiscal 2007, respectively, as compared to the same periods of fiscal 2006. The increases were primarily due to an increase in repair and maintenance expenses, increased straight-line rent expense as a result of adopting FSP 13-1 and increased labor expenses, partially offset by a decrease in utilities.  Restaurant expenses recorded during the first two quarters of fiscal 2007 included a $3.2 million gain related to the termination of interest rate swaps on an operating lease commitment. Restaurant expenses recorded during the first two quarters of fiscal 2006 included a $3.3 million gain on the sale of real estate.

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Depreciation and amortization increased $1.1 million and $2.7 million for the second quarter and year-to-date fiscal 2007, respectively, as compared to the same periods of fiscal 2006.  The increase in depreciation expense was due to new restaurant construction and ongoing remodel costs, partially offset by a decrease in depreciation related to restaurant closures and dispositions and a declining depreciable asset base for older restaurants.

General and administrative expenses decreased $4.6 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2007 as compared to the same period of fiscal 2006.  The decrease was primarily due to the change in our annual grant date for stock-based compensation and lower meeting expenses, partially offset by increased litigation expense and increased 401k matching and employee participation.  General and administrative expenses decreased $1.5 million for year-to-date fiscal 2007 as compared to the same period of fiscal 2006.  The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in meeting expenses, performance-based compensation, and a decrease in headcount partially offset by increased 401k matching and increased litigation expense.

Restructure charges and other impairments recorded during the second quarter of fiscal 2007 consist of impairment charges associated with restaurant closures.  Restructure charges and other impairments recorded during fiscal 2006 consist primarily of charges related to previously closed restaurants, including a decrease in the estimated sales value of owned restaurants as well as an increase in lease obligations associated with closed restaurants. During the third and fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, we expect to record additional charges primarily related to existing lease obligations associated with restaurant closures.

Interest expense increased $416,000 and $1.3 million for the second quarter and year-to-date fiscal 2007, respectively, as compared to the same periods of fiscal 2006.  The increase was primarily due to increased average borrowings and increased interest rates on our lines-of-credit.

INCOME TAXES

The effective income tax rate related to continuing operations decreased to 31.3% from 34.0% for the second quarter of fiscal 2007 and to 31.6% from 33.7% for year-to-date fiscal 2007 as compared to the same periods of fiscal 2006. The decrease in the tax rate was primarily due to a decrease in stock-based compensation related to incentive stock options, which is not deductible until exercised, and benefits from state income tax planning.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The working capital deficit increased to $323.2 million at December 27, 2006 from $255.1 million at June 28, 2006 primarily due to the increase in gift card liabilities as a result of increased holiday sales and the increase in income taxes payable due to timing of payments, partially offset by cash used for repurchases of treasury stock. Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations increased to $293.3 million for the first two quarters of fiscal 2007 from $281.3 million during the same period in fiscal 2006 due to increased profitability, partially offset by the timing of operational receipts and payments.  We believe that our various sources of capital, including availability under existing credit facilities, ability to raise additional financing, and cash flow from operating activities of continuing operations, are adequate to finance operations as well as the repayment of current debt obligations.

Capital expenditures consist of purchases of land for future restaurant sites, new restaurants under construction, purchases of new and replacement restaurant furniture and equipment, and ongoing remodeling programs.  Capital expenditures were $194.8 million for the first two quarters of fiscal 2007 compared to $164.2 million for the same period of fiscal 2006.  We estimate that our capital expenditures during the third quarter of fiscal 2007 will be approximately $138.1 million and will be funded entirely from operations and existing credit facilities.

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We sold fifteen Chili’s restaurants to a franchisee for cash proceeds of $20.1 million during the first quarter of fiscal 2007.

In November 2006, we announced the declaration of a dividend to common stock shareholders and increased the amount paid by 35% to $0.09 per share.  The dividend was paid in November 2006, bringing total dividends paid during the first two quarters of fiscal 2007 to approximately $19.4 million.

The Board of Directors authorized an increase in the stock repurchase plan of $450.0 million in August 2006, bringing the total to $1,760.0 million.

In August 2006, we announced a plan to return capital to shareholders through a modified “Dutch auction” tender offer for up to approximately 17.5 million shares of common stock.  In October 2006, we accepted for purchase approximately 1.9 million shares of common stock at a purchase price of $26.67 per share, for a total cost of $51.9 million including related transaction costs.  The tender offer was funded through existing lines of credit.

In November 2006, we entered into a written trading plan that complies with Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which provides for the purchase of up to $100 million of shares of our common stock.  The timing and actual number of shares repurchased depend on a variety of factors including price, corporate and regulatory requirements and other market conditions.  All purchases are made subject to the restrictions of Rule 10b-18 relating to volume, price and timing so as to minimize the impact of the purchases upon the market for our shares.  As of December 27, 2006, 945,000 shares have been repurchased for approximately $28.5 million under the plan.

Including the tender offer and 10b5-1 plan, we repurchased approximately 4.5 million shares of our common stock for $119.2 million during the first two quarters of fiscal 2007.  As of December 27, 2006, approximately $450.2 million was available under our share repurchase authorizations.  Our stock repurchase plan will be used to return capital to shareholders and to minimize the dilutive impact of stock options and other share-based awards.  We will consider additional share repurchases based on several factors, including our cash position, share price, operational liquidity, and planned investment and financing needs.  The repurchased common stock is reflected as a reduction of shareholders’ equity. Additional purchases will be funded entirely from operations, existing credit facilities, and the sale of company-owned restaurants.

We allowed a one-year unsecured committed credit facility of $400.0 million to expire unused in December 2006.

We are not aware of any other event or trend that would potentially affect our liquidity. In the event such a trend develops, we believe that there are sufficient funds available under our credit facilities and from our internal cash generating capabilities to adequately manage the expansion of our business.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In June 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (“FIN 48”).  FIN 48 requires companies to determine whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination by the appropriate taxing authorities before any part of the benefit can be recorded in the financial statements.  This interpretation also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, accounting in interim periods, and expanded disclosure requirements.  FIN 48 is effective for us beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2008.  We are currently in the process of assessing the impact that FIN 48 may have on our consolidated financial statements.

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In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” (“SFAS 157”).  SFAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, describes methods used to appropriately measure fair value, and expands fair value disclosure requirements.  This statement applies under other accounting pronouncements that currently require or permit fair value measurements and is effective for us beginning in fiscal 2009.  We are currently in the process of assessing the impact that SFAS 157 may have on our consolidated financial statements.

In September 2006, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108, “Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements,” (“SAB 108”).  SAB 108 requires companies to evaluate the materiality of identified unadjusted errors in the financial statements by considering the impact of both the current year error and the cumulative error, if applicable.  This bulletin prescribes two approaches that must be used to evaluate unadjusted errors and requires the financial statements to be adjusted if either approach results in quantifying an error as material.  SAB 108 is effective for our current fiscal year.  We are currently in the process of assessing the impact that SAB 108 may have on our consolidated financial statements.

Item 3.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

There have been no material changes in our quantitative and qualitative market risks since the prior reporting period.

Item 4.    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Based on their evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 [the “Exchange Act”]), as of the end of the period covered by this report, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during our second quarter ended December 27, 2006, that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

We wish to caution you that our business and operations are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties.  The factors listed below are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical results and from those projected in forward-looking statements contained in this report, in our other filings with the SEC, in our news releases, written or electronic communications, and verbal statements by our representatives.

You should be aware that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties.  These risks and uncertainties may cause our or our industry’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performances or achievements contained in or implied by these forward-looking statements.  Forward-looking statements are generally accompanied by words like “believes,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “expects,” and other similar expressions that convey uncertainty about future events or outcomes.

Risks Related to Our Business

Competition may adversely affect our operations and financial results.

The restaurant business is highly competitive as to price, service, restaurant location, nutritional and dietary trends and food quality, and is often affected by changes in consumer tastes, economic conditions, population and traffic patterns.  We compete within each market with locally-owned restaurants as well as national and regional restaurant chains, some of which operate more restaurants and have greater financial resources and longer operating histories than ours.  There is active competition for management personnel and hourly employees, and for attractive commercial real estate sites suitable for restaurants.

Our sales volumes generally decrease in winter months.

Our sales volumes fluctuate seasonally and are generally higher in the summer months and lower in the winter months, which may cause seasonal fluctuations in our operating results.

Changes in governmental regulation may adversely affect our ability to open new restaurants and our existing and future operations.

Each of our restaurants is subject to licensing and regulation by alcoholic beverage control, health, sanitation, safety and fire agencies in the state, county and/or municipality where the restaurant is located.  We generally have not encountered any material difficulties or failures in obtaining the required licenses and approvals that could delay or prevent the opening of a new restaurant, or impact the continuing operations of an existing restaurant.  Although we do not, at this time, anticipate any occurring in the future, we cannot assure you that we will not experience material difficulties or failures that could delay the opening of restaurants in the future or impact the continuing operations of an existing restaurant.

We are subject to federal and state environmental regulations, and although these have not had a material negative effect on our operations, we cannot ensure that there will not be a material negative effect in the future.  More stringent and varied requirements of local and state governmental bodies with respect to zoning, land use and environmental factors could delay or prevent development of new restaurants in particular locations.

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We are subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act, which governs such matters as minimum wages, overtime and other working conditions, along with the Americans with Disabilities Act, various family leave mandates and a variety of other laws enacted, or rules and regulations promulgated, by federal, state and local governmental authorities that govern these and other employment matters.  We expect increases in payroll expenses as a result of federal and state mandated increases in the minimum wage, and although such increases are not expected to be material, we cannot assure you that there will not be material increases in the future.  In addition, our vendors may be affected by higher minimum wage standards, which may increase the price of goods and services they supply to us.

Inflation may increase our operating expenses.

We have not experienced a significant overall impact from inflation.  Inflation can cause increased food, labor and benefits costs and can increase our operating expenses.  As operating expenses increase, we, to the extent permitted by competition, recover increased costs by increasing menu prices, or by reviewing, then implementing, alternative products or processes, or by implementing other cost reduction procedures.  We cannot ensure, however, that we will be able to continue to recover increases in operating expenses due to inflation in this manner.

Our profitability may be adversely affected by increases in energy costs.

Our success depends in part on our ability to absorb increases in utility costs.  Various regions of the United States in which we operate multiple restaurants have experienced significant increases in utility prices.  If these increases continue to occur, it would have an adverse effect on our profitability.

Successful mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and other strategic transactions are important to our future growth and profitability.

We evaluate potential mergers, acquisitions, joint venture investments, and divestitures as part of our strategic planning initiative.  These transactions involve various inherent risks, including accurately assessing:

·                  the value, future growth potential, strengths, weaknesses, contingent and other liabilities and potential profitability of acquisition candidates;

·                  our ability to achieve projected economic and operating synergies; unanticipated changes in business and economic conditions affecting an acquired business; and

·                  our ability to complete divestitures on acceptable terms and at or near the prices estimated as attainable by us.

If we are unable to meet our growth plan, our profitability in the future may be adversely affected.

Our ability to upon, among other things, our ability to:

·                  identify available, suitable and economically viable locations for new restaurants,

·                  obtain all required governmental permits (including zoning approvals and liquor licenses) on a timely basis,

·                  hire all necessary contractors and subcontractors, and

·                  meet construction schedules.

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The costs related to restaurant and brand development include purchases and leases of land, buildings and equipment and facility and equipment maintenance, repair and replacement.  The labor and materials costs involved vary geographically and are subject to general price increases.  As a result, future capital expenditure costs of restaurant development may increase, reducing profitability.  We cannot assure you that we will be able to expand our capacity in accordance with our growth objectives or that the new restaurants and brands opened or acquired will be profitable.

Unfavorable publicity relating to one or more of our restaurants in a particular brand may taint public perception of the brand.

Multi-unit restaurant businesses can be adversely affected by publicity resulting from poor food quality, illness or health concerns or operating issues stemming from one or a limited number of restaurants.  In particular, since we depend heavily on the Chili’s brand for a majority of our revenues, unfavorable publicity relating to one or more Chili’s restaurants could have a material adverse effect on the Chili’s brand, and consequently on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Identification of material weakness in internal control may adversely affect our financial results.

We are subject to the ongoing internal control provisions of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.  Those provisions provide for the identification of material weaknesses in internal control.  If such a material weakness is identified, it could indicate a lack of adequate controls to generate accurate financial statements.  We routinely assess our internal controls, but we cannot assure you that we will be able to timely remediate any material weaknesses that may be identified in future periods, or maintain all of the controls necessary for continued compliance.  Likewise, we cannot assure you that we will be able to retain sufficient skilled finance and accounting personnel, especially in light of the increased demand for such personnel among publicly traded companies.

Other risk factors may adversely affect our financial performance.

Other risk factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements by affecting, among many things, pricing, consumer spending and consumer confidence, include, without limitation, changes in economic conditions, increased fuel costs and availability for our employees, customers and suppliers, health epidemics or pandemics or the prospects of these events (such as recent reports on avian flu), consumer perceptions of food safety, changes in consumer tastes and behaviors, governmental monetary policies, changes in demographic trends, availability of employees, terrorist acts, energy shortages and rolling blackouts, and weather (including, major hurricanes and regional snow storms) and other acts of God.

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Information regarding legal proceedings is incorporated by reference from Note 8 to our consolidated financial statements set forth in Part I of this report.

Item 1A. RISK FACTORS

There has been no material change in the risk factors set forth in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 28, 2006.

Item 2.    UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Shares repurchased during the second quarter of fiscal 2007 are as follows (in thousands, except share and per share amounts):

		Total Number of Shares Purchased (a)		Average Price Paid per Share			Maximum Dollar Value that May Yet be Purchased Under the Program
September 28, 2006 through November 1, 2006		1,888,862		$	26.67		$	478,667
November 2, 2006 through November 29, 2006		90,000		$	30.66		$	475,906
November 30, 2006 through December 27, 2006		855,000		$	30.09		$	450,160
		2,833,862		$	27.83

 

(a)          All of the shares purchased during the second quarter of fiscal 2007 were purchased as part of the publicly announced programs described in part I of this report.

Item 4.    SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

Our Proxy Statement dated September 8, 2006 for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on November 2, 2006, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 8, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference.

(a)          The Annual Meeting of Shareholders of the Company was held on November 2, 2006.

(b)         Each of the management’s nominees, as described in the Proxy Statement referenced above, was elected a director to hold office until the next Annual Meeting of Shareholders or until his or her successor is elected and qualified.

		Votes For		Votes Against or Withheld
Douglas H. Brooks		68,910,400		4,178,371
Robert M. Gates (a)		72,934,010		154,761
Marvin J. Girouard		72,992,728		96,043
Ronald Kirk		72,990,720		98,051
George R. Mrkonic		72,830,895		257,876
Erle Nye		72,992,991		95,780
James E. Oesterreicher		68,903,073		4,185,698
Rosendo G. Parra		72,993,383		95,388
Cece Smith		72,996,499		92,272

 

(a)          On December 7, 2006, Dr. Robert M. Gates resigned from our Board of Directors.  Dr. Gates was confirmed on December 6, 2006 by the United States Senate to be Secretary of Defense for the United States of America.

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(c)          The following matter was also voted upon at the meeting and approved by the shareholders:

(i)                                proposal to ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as Independent Auditors for Fiscal 2007

 

Votes For	72,828,645
Votes Against	237,483
Votes Abstained	22,644

 

(d)         The following matter was also voted upon at the meeting and rejected by the shareholders:

(i)                                shareholder proposal submitted by PETA and Calvert Group, LTD

 

Votes For	7,589,319
Votes Against	50,838,190
Votes Abstained	8,376,448

 

Item 6.    EXHIBITS

31(a)              Certification by Douglas H. Brooks, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Registrant, pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a - 14(a) or 17 CFR 240.15d - 14(a).

31(b)             Certification by Charles M. Sonsteby, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Registrant, pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a - 14(a) or 17 CFR 240.15d - 14(a).

32(a)                Certification by Douglas H. Brooks, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Registrant, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32(b)               Certification by Charles M. Sonsteby, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Registrant, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, we have duly caused this report to be signed on our behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

	BRINKER INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Date: February 5, 2007	By:	/s/ Douglas H. Brooks
		Douglas H. Brooks,
		Chairman of the Board,
		President and Chief Executive Officer
		(Principal Executive Officer)
Date: February 5, 2007	By:	/s/ Charles M. Sonsteby
		Charles M. Sonsteby,
		Executive Vice President and
		Chief Financial Officer
		(Principal Financial Officer)

·

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