DOMINOS PIZZA INC (DPZ)
SIC breadcrumb: Wholesale Trade > Wholesale Trade - Nondurable Goods > SIC 5140 Wholesale-Groceries & Related Products
SEC company page: https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=1286681. Latest filing source: 0001193125-26-062321.
Informational only - descriptive public-record data, not investment advice.
Selected Fundamentals
| Metric | Value | Unit | FY | Filed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 4,939,994,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-23 |
| Net income | 601,704,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-23 |
| Assets | 1,716,459,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-23 |
Financials
Annual standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-02-23. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0001286681.json. Derived margins, ratios, and free cash flow are computed from the extracted annual SEC facts.
| Metric | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 1,993,833,000 | 2,216,528,000 | 2,787,979,000 | 3,432,867,000 | 3,618,774,000 | 4,117,411,000 | 4,357,373,000 | 4,479,358,000 | 4,706,416,000 | 4,939,994,000 | ||
| Net income | 162,587,000 | 192,789,000 | 277,905,000 | 361,972,000 | 400,709,000 | 491,296,000 | 510,467,000 | 519,118,000 | 584,170,000 | 601,704,000 | ||
| Operating income | 345,361,000 | 405,439,000 | 521,232,000 | 571,689,000 | 629,407,000 | 725,642,000 | 767,925,000 | 819,519,000 | 878,999,000 | 953,974,000 | ||
| Gross profit | 594,766,000 | 683,131,000 | 865,991,000 | 1,302,679,000 | 1,402,499,000 | 1,594,493,000 | 1,688,242,000 | 1,727,417,000 | 1,848,502,000 | 1,973,560,000 | ||
| Diluted EPS | 2.86 | 3.47 | 5.83 | 8.35 | 9.56 | 12.39 | 13.54 | 14.66 | 16.69 | 17.57 | ||
| Operating cash flow | 176,320,000 | 193,989,000 | 341,261,000 | 394,171,000 | 496,950,000 | 592,794,000 | 654,206,000 | 590,864,000 | 624,897,000 | 792,062,000 | ||
| Capital expenditures | 70,093,000 | 63,282,000 | 90,011,000 | 119,888,000 | 85,565,000 | 88,768,000 | 94,172,000 | 105,396,000 | 112,885,000 | 120,558,000 | ||
| Dividends paid | 52,843,000 | 80,329,000 | 84,298,000 | 92,166,000 | 105,715,000 | 121,925,000 | 139,399,000 | 169,772,000 | 209,945,000 | 236,861,000 | ||
| Share buybacks | 82,407,000 | 738,557,000 | 1,064,253,000 | 591,212,000 | 699,007,000 | 304,590,000 | 1,320,902,000 | 269,025,000 | 329,557,000 | 357,697,000 | ||
| Assets | 596,333,000 | 799,845,000 | 836,753,000 | 907,385,000 | 1,382,092,000 | 1,567,168,000 | 1,671,816,000 | 1,674,899,000 | 1,737,013,000 | 1,716,459,000 | ||
| Liabilities | 1,815,798,000 | 2,600,096,000 | 3,572,137,000 | 3,947,306,000 | 4,797,851,000 | 4,867,573,000 | 5,881,352,000 | 5,745,266,000 | 5,699,304,000 | 5,617,601,000 | ||
| Stockholders' equity | -1,219,465,000 | -1,800,251,000 | -2,735,384,000 | -3,039,921,000 | -3,415,759,000 | -3,300,405,000 | -4,209,536,000 | -4,070,367,000 | -3,962,291,000 | -3,901,142,000 | ||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 30,855,000 | 133,449,000 | 35,768,000 | 25,438,000 | 190,615,000 | 168,821,000 | 148,160,000 | 114,098,000 | 186,126,000 | 125,675,000 | ||
| Free cash flow | 251,250,000 | 274,283,000 | 411,385,000 | 504,026,000 | 560,034,000 | 485,468,000 | 512,012,000 | 671,504,000 |
Ratios
| Metric | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net margin | 8.15% | 8.70% | 9.97% | 10.54% | 11.07% | 11.93% | 11.72% | 11.59% | 12.41% | 12.18% | ||
| Operating margin | 17.32% | 18.29% | 18.70% | 16.65% | 17.39% | 17.62% | 17.62% | 18.30% | 18.68% | 19.31% | ||
| Return on assets | 27.26% | 24.10% | 33.21% | 39.89% | 28.99% | 31.35% | 30.53% | 30.99% | 33.63% | 35.05% | ||
| Current ratio | 1.61 | 1.60 | 1.46 | 1.49 | 1.74 | 1.85 | 1.46 | 1.49 | 0.56 | 1.65 |
Financial Charts
Quarterly
Quarterly standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-02-23. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0001286681.json.
| Quarter | End Date | Revenue | Net Income | Diluted EPS | Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012-Q4 | 2012-12-30 | 539,650,000 | 37,578,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2013-Q4 | 2013-12-29 | 566,547,000 | 44,663,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2014-Q4 | 2014-12-28 | 642,950,000 | 48,033,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2015-Q4 | 2016-01-03 | 741,183,000 | 62,759,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2016-Q4 | 2017-01-01 | 819,435,000 | 72,733,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2017-Q4 | 2017-12-31 | 891,509,000 | 93,327,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2018-Q4 | 2018-12-30 | 1,082,135,000 | 111,642,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2019-Q4 | 2019-12-29 | 1,150,352,000 | 129,327,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2020-Q4 | 2021-01-03 | 1,356,567,000 | 151,897,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2023-Q4 | 2023-12-31 | 1,402,972,000 | 157,292,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2024-Q4 | 2024-12-29 | 1,443,914,000 | 169,444,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2025-Q4 | 2025-12-28 | 1,535,740,000 | 181,643,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD |
Quarterly Charts
Macro Cross-References
- CPIAUCSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items in U.S. City Average
- UNRATE - Unemployment Rate
- FEDFUNDS - Federal Funds Effective Rate
- CES0500000003 - Average Hourly Earnings of All Employees, Total Private
- DFEDTARU - Federal Funds Target Range - Upper Limit
- DFEDTARL - Federal Funds Target Range - Lower Limit
- DGS3MO - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 3-Month Constant Maturity
- DGS2 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 2-Year Constant Maturity
- DGS10 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 10-Year Constant Maturity
- DGS30 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 30-Year Constant Maturity
- T10Y2Y - 10-Year Treasury Constant Maturity Minus 2-Year Treasury Constant Maturity
- CPILFESL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items Less Food and Energy
- CPIUFDSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Food
- CPIENGSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Energy
- CUSR0000SAH1 - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Shelter
- PCEPI - Personal Consumption Expenditures: Chain-type Price Index
- PCEPILFE - Personal Consumption Expenditures Excluding Food and Energy: Chain-type Price Index
- PPIACO - Producer Price Index by Commodity: All Commodities
- T10YIE - 10-Year Breakeven Inflation Rate
- U6RATE - Total Unemployed, Plus All Marginally Attached Workers Plus Total Employed Part Time for Economic Reasons
- PAYEMS - All Employees, Total Nonfarm
- CIVPART - Labor Force Participation Rate
- EMRATIO - Employment-Population Ratio
- UNEMPLOY - Unemployed
- CE16OV - Employment Level
- ICSA - Initial Claims
- JTSJOL - Job Openings: Total Nonfarm
- JTSQUR - Quits: Total Nonfarm
- GDPC1 - Real Gross Domestic Product
- A191RL1Q225SBEA - Real Gross Domestic Product: Percent Change from Preceding Period
- INDPRO - Industrial Production: Total Index
- TCU - Capacity Utilization: Total Index
- HOUST - New Privately-Owned Housing Units Started: Total Units
- PERMIT - New Privately-Owned Housing Units Authorized in Permit-Issuing Places: Total Units
- RSAFS - Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade
- PCE - Personal Consumption Expenditures
- DSPIC96 - Real Disposable Personal Income
- PSAVERT - Personal Saving Rate
- M2SL - M2
- BOPGSTB - U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services: Balance
- MSPUS - Median Sales Price of Houses Sold for the United States
- HSN1F - New One Family Houses Sold: United States
- RHORUSQ156N - Homeownership Rate in the United States
- TTLCONS - Total Construction Spending: Total Construction in the United States
- RRVRUSQ156N - Rental Vacancy Rate in the United States
- TOTALSL - Total Consumer Credit Owned and Securitized
- REVOLSL - Revolving Consumer Credit Owned and Securitized
- DRCCLACBS - Delinquency Rate on Credit Card Loans, All Commercial Banks
- GDP - Gross Domestic Product
- GPDI - Gross Private Domestic Investment
- GCE - Government Consumption Expenditures and Gross Investment
- PCEC - Personal Consumption Expenditures
- NETEXP - Net Exports of Goods and Services
- GFDEBTN - Federal Debt: Total Public Debt
- GFDEGDQ188S - Federal Debt: Total Public Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
- FYFSD - Federal Surplus or Deficit
- FGRECPT - Federal Government Current Receipts
- FGEXPND - Federal Government: Current Expenditures
- MANEMP - All Employees, Manufacturing
- USCONS - All Employees, Construction
- USTRADE - All Employees, Retail Trade
- USFIRE - All Employees, Financial Activities
- USGOVT - All Employees, Government
- AWHAETP - Average Weekly Hours of All Employees, Total Private
- DGORDER - Manufacturers' New Orders: Durable Goods
- NEWORDER - Manufacturers' New Orders: Nondefense Capital Goods Excluding Aircraft
- BUSINV - Total Business Inventories
- EXPGS - Exports of Goods and Services
- IMPGS - Imports of Goods and Services
- IR - Import Price Index (End Use): All Commodities
- PPIFIS - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Final Demand
Latest quarter (10-Q)
Latest 10-Q source: 0001286681-26-000025.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Unaudited; tabular amounts in millions, except percentages and store data)
The 2026 and 2025 first quarters referenced herein represent the twelve-week periods ended March 22, 2026 and March 23, 2025, respectively. In this section, we discuss the results of our operations for the first quarter of 2026 as compared to the first quarter of 2025.
Overview
Domino’s is the largest pizza company in the world, with more than 22,300 locations in over 90 markets around the world as of March 22, 2026, and operates two distinct service models within its stores, with a significant business in both delivery and carryout. We are a highly recognized global brand, and we focus on value while serving neighborhoods locally through our large worldwide network of franchise owners and U.S. Company-owned stores through both the delivery and carryout service models. We have been selling quality, affordable food to our customers since 1960. We became “Domino’s Pizza” in 1965 and opened our first franchised store in 1967. For more than 65 years, we have built Domino’s into one of the most widely-recognized consumer brands in the world. We believe our commitment to value, convenience, quality and new products continues to keep consumers engaged with the brand.
We are primarily a franchisor, with approximately 99% of Domino’s global stores owned and operated by our independent franchisees as of March 22, 2026. Franchising enables an individual to be a business owner and maintain control over all employment-related matters and pricing decisions, while also benefiting from the strength of the Domino’s global brand and operating system with limited capital investment by us.
Domino’s business model is straightforward: Domino’s stores handcraft and serve quality food at a competitive price, with easy ordering access and efficient service, enhanced by our technological innovations. Our hand-tossed dough is made fresh and distributed to stores around the world by us and our franchisees.
Domino’s generates revenues and earnings by charging royalties and fees to our franchisees. Royalties are ongoing percent-of-sales fees for use of the Domino’s® brand marks. We also generate revenues and earnings by selling food and, to a lesser extent, other products to franchisees through our supply chain operations primarily in the U.S. and Canada and by operating a number of Company-owned stores in the U.S. Franchisees profit by selling pizza and other complementary items to their local customers. In our international markets, we generally grant geographical rights to the Domino’s Pizza® brand to master franchisees. These master franchisees are charged with developing their geographical area, and they may profit by sub-franchising and selling food and, to a lesser extent, other products to those sub-franchisees, as well as by running pizza stores. We believe that everyone in the system can benefit from the franchise model, including the end consumer, who can purchase Domino’s menu items for themselves and their family conveniently and economically.
Domino’s business model can yield strong returns for our franchise owners and the Company. It can also yield significant cash flows to us, through consistent franchise royalty and supply chain revenue streams, all within an asset-light model. We have historically returned cash to shareholders through dividend payments and share repurchases. Domino’s financial results are driven largely by retail sales at our stores. Changes in retail sales are primarily driven by same store sales growth and net store growth. We actively monitor both of these metrics, as they directly impact our revenues and profits, and we strive to consistently increase both metrics. Retail sales drive royalty payments from franchisees, as well as Company-owned store and supply chain revenues.
At Domino’s, we believe we have a proven business model for success that has historically driven strong returns for our shareholders. Our Hungry for MORE strategy aims to generate MORE sales, MORE stores and MORE profits. The strategic imperatives of our Hungry for MORE strategy are as follows:
Most Delicious Food: We believe we have the best pizza in the industry, and our menu has even more mouthwatering options beyond pizza. We will continue to showcase the breadth of our menu, while highlighting the deliciousness of our food through our innovative marketing promotions.
Operational Excellence: We are relentless in our focus on convenience, consistency and efficiency for our customers.
Renowned Value: We are committed to continuing to offer competitive pricing and personalized value for our customers that is innovative and memorable.
Enhanced by Best-in-Class Franchisees: Our franchisees play a vital role in driving results and excitement across the more than 90 markets in which we operate.
15
First Quarter of 2026 Highlights
As discussed above, our Hungry for MORE strategy aims to generate MORE sales, MORE stores and MORE profits.
•
MORE Sales: Global retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact (which includes total retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores worldwide), increased 3.4% as compared to the first quarter of 2025. U.S. retail sales increased 2.8% and international retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact, increased 4.0% as compared to the first quarter of 2025. Same store sales increased 0.9% in our U.S. stores and declined 0.4% in our international stores (excluding foreign currency impact).
•
MORE Stores: Global net store growth of 180, including 19 net store openings in the U.S. and 161 net store openings internationally.
•
MORE Profits: Income from operations increased 9.6%.
Excluding the positive impact of foreign currency, Domino’s experienced global retail sales growth during the first quarter of 2026, driven by same store sales growth in the U.S. and net store growth in both our U.S. and international businesses. These factors, as well as gross margin dollar improvement within supply chain and a pre-tax realized gain on the sale of our fully depreciated corporate aircraft, also contributed to an increase in income from operations. Overall, we believe our global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, marketing initiatives, operations and emphasis on technology have combined to strengthen our brand. These financial and statistical measures are described in additional detail below.
Statistical Measures
The tables below outline certain statistical measures we utilize to analyze our performance. This historical data is not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for any future period.
Global Retail Sales
Global retail sales is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Global retail sales refers to total worldwide retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores. We believe global retail sales information is useful in analyzing revenues because franchisees pay royalties and, in the U.S., advertising fees that are based on a percentage of franchise retail sales. We review comparable industry global retail sales information to assess business trends and to track the growth of the Domino’s Pizza brand, and we believe they are indicative of the financial health of our franchisee base. In addition, supply chain revenues are directly impacted by changes in franchise retail sales in the U.S. and Canada. As a result, sales by Domino’s franchisees have a direct effect on our profitability. Retail sales for franchised stores are reported to us by our franchisees and are not included in our revenues. The amounts below are presented in millions of U.S. dollars.
| First Quarter of 2026 | First Quarter of 2025 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Global retail sales: | |||||||
| U.S. stores | $ | 2,302.6 | $ | 2,240.8 | |||
| International stores | 2,437.1 | 2,223.5 | |||||
| Total | $ | 4,739.7 | $ | 4,464.3 |
Global Retail Sales Growth, Excluding Foreign Currency Impact
Global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact is calculated as the change of international local currency global retail sales against the comparable period of the prior year. Changes in global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact are primarily driven by same store sales growth and net store growth.
| First Quarter of 2026 | First Quarter of 2025 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. stores | + 2.8% | + 1.3% | ||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) | + 4.0% | + 8.2% | ||
| Total (excluding foreign currency impact) | + 3.4% | + 4.7% |
16
Same Store Sales Growth
Same store sales growth is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Same store sales growth is calculated for a given period by including only sales from stores that also had sales in the comparable weeks of both periods. International same store sales growth is calculated similarly to U.S. same store sales growth. Changes in international same store sales are reported on a constant dollar basis, which reflects changes in international local currency sales. Same store sales growth for transferred stores is reflected in their current classification.
| First Quarter of 2026 | First Quarter of 2025 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | + 1.5% | (2.9)% | ||
| U.S. franchise stores | + 0.8% | (0.4)% | ||
| U.S. stores | + 0.9% | (0.5)% | ||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) | (0.4)% | + 3.7% |
U.S. same store sales increased 0.9% in the first quarter of 2026, rolling over a decline in U.S. same store sales of 0.5% in the first quarter of 2025. The increase in U.S. same store sales was driven by both higher average ticket and higher customer transaction counts. International same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) declined 0.4% in the first quarter of 2026, rolling over an increase in international same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) of 3.7% in the first quarter of 2025.
Store Growth Activity
Net store growth is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Net store growth is calculated by netting gross store openings with gross store closures during the period. Transfers between Company-owned stores and franchised stores are excluded from the calculation of net store growth.
| U.S. Company- owned Stores | U.S. Franchise Stores | Total U.S. Stores | International Stores | Total | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Store count at December 28, 2025 | 262 | 6,924 | 7,186 | 14,956 | 22,142 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 1 | 20 | 21 | 212 | 233 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | (2 | ) | (51 | ) | (53 | ) | ||||||||||
| Store count at March 22, 2026 | 262 | 6,943 | 7,205 | 15,117 | 22,322 | |||||||||||||||
| First quarter 2026 net store growth | — | 19 | 19 | 161 | 180 | |||||||||||||||
| Trailing four quarters net store growth | 5 | 169 | 174 | 790 | 964 |
17
Income Statement Data
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[Excerpt truncated for page length; source filing is linked above.]
Latest 10-K MD&A
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Unaudited; tabular amounts in millions, except percentages and store data)
Overview
Our fiscal year typically includes 52 weeks, comprised of three twelve-week quarters and one sixteen-week quarter.
In this section, we discuss the results of our operations for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2025 compared to the fiscal year ended December 29, 2024. For a discussion of the fiscal year ended December 29, 2024 compared to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, please refer to Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2024.
Description of the Business
Domino’s is the largest pizza company in the world with more than 22,100 locations in over 90 markets around the world as of December 28, 2025, and operates two distinct service models within its stores, with a significant business in both delivery and carryout. We are a highly recognized global brand, and we focus on value while serving neighborhoods locally through our large worldwide network of franchise owners and U.S. Company-owned stores through both the delivery and carryout service models. We have been selling quality, affordable food to our customers since 1960. We became “Domino’s Pizza” in 1965 and opened our first franchised store in 1967. Over the past 65 years, we have built Domino’s into one of the most widely-recognized consumer brands in the world. We believe our commitment to value, convenience, quality and new products continues to keep consumers engaged with the brand.
We are primarily a franchisor, with approximately 99% of Domino’s global stores owned and operated by our independent franchisees as of December 28, 2025. Franchising enables an individual to be a business owner and maintain control over all employment-related matters and pricing decisions, while also benefiting from the strength of the Domino’s global brand and operating system with limited capital investment by us.
Domino’s business model is straightforward: Domino’s stores handcraft and serve quality food at a competitive price, with easy ordering access and efficient service, enhanced by our technological innovations. Our hand-tossed dough is made fresh and distributed to stores around the world by us and our franchisees.
Domino’s generates revenues and earnings by charging royalties and fees to our franchisees. Royalties are ongoing percent-of-sales fees for use of the Domino’s® brand marks. We also generate revenues and earnings by selling food and other products to franchisees through our supply chain operations primarily in the U.S. and Canada and by operating a number of Company-owned stores in the U.S. Franchisees profit by selling pizza and other complementary items to their local customers. In our international markets, we generally grant geographical rights to the Domino’s Pizza® brand to master franchisees. These master franchisees are charged with developing their geographical area, and they may profit by sub-franchising and selling food, and to a lesser extent, other products to those sub-franchisees, as well as by running pizza stores. We believe that everyone in the system can benefit from the franchise model, including the end consumer, who can purchase Domino’s menu items for themselves and their family conveniently and economically.
Domino’s business model can yield strong returns for our franchise owners and our Company-owned stores. It can also yield significant cash flows to us, through consistent franchise royalty and supply chain revenue streams, all within an asset-light model. We have historically returned cash to shareholders through dividend payments and share repurchases. Domino’s financial results are driven largely by retail sales at our franchised and Company-owned stores. Changes in retail sales are primarily driven by same store sales growth and net store growth. We actively monitor both of these metrics, as they directly impact our revenues and profits, and we strive to consistently increase both metrics. Retail sales drive royalty payments from franchisees, as well as Company-owned store and supply chain revenues.
35
At Domino’s, we believe we have a proven business model for success that has historically driven strong returns for our shareholders. Our Hungry for MORE strategy aims to generate MORE sales, MORE stores and MORE profits. The strategic imperatives of our Hungry for MORE strategy are as follows:
Most Delicious Food: We believe we have the best pizza in the industry, and our menu has even more mouthwatering options beyond pizza. We will continue to showcase the breadth of our menu, while highlighting the deliciousness of our food through our innovative marketing promotions.
Operational Excellence: We are relentless in our focus on convenience, consistency and efficiency for our customers.
Renowned Value: We are committed to continuing to offer competitive pricing and personalized value for our customers that is innovative and memorable.
Enhanced by Best-in-Class Franchisees: Our franchisees play a vital role in driving results and excitement across the more than 90 markets in which we operate.
Critical accounting estimates
The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires our management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, our management evaluates its estimates, including those related to long-lived assets, casualty insurance reserves and income taxes. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from those estimates, and changes in estimates could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition for any particular period.
We believe that our most critical accounting estimates are:
Long-lived assets
We record long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and capitalized software, at cost. For acquisitions of franchise operations, we estimate the fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired based on physical inspection of assets, historical experience and other information available to us regarding the acquisition. We depreciate and amortize long-lived assets using useful lives determined by us based on historical experience and other information available to us. We evaluate long-lived assets, including property, plant, equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Our periodic evaluation is based on various analyses including the projection of undiscounted cash flows. If we determine that the carrying amount of an asset (or asset group) may not be recoverable, we compare the net carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted net cash flows to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of that asset group.
For Company-owned stores, we perform related impairment tests on an operating market basis, which we have determined to be the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of other cash flows. If the carrying amount of a long-lived asset exceeds the amount of the expected future undiscounted cash flows of that asset, we estimate the fair value of the asset. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the estimated fair value of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized, and the asset is written down to its estimated fair value. We have not made any significant changes in the methodology used to project the future market cash flows of Company-owned stores during the years presented. Same store sales fluctuations and the rates at which operating costs will fluctuate in the future are key factors in determining projected cash flows used to evaluate recoverability of the related assets. If our same store sales significantly decline or if operating costs increase and we are unable to recover these costs, the carrying value of our Company-owned stores, by market, may not be recoverable and we may be required to recognize an impairment charge.
We did not record any impairment losses on long-lived assets in 2025, 2024 and 2023.
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Casualty insurance reserves
For certain periods prior to December 1998 and for periods after December 2001, we maintain insurance coverage for workers’ compensation, general liability and owned and non-owned automobile liabilities. We are generally responsible for up to $1.0 million per occurrence under these retention programs for workers’ compensation and up to $2.0 million per occurrence under these retention programs for general liability, depending on policy year and line of coverage. We are generally responsible for up to between $2.0 million and $5.5 million per occurrence under these retention programs for owned and non-owned automobile liabilities, depending on policy year and line of coverage. Casualty insurance reserves are based on undiscounted actuarial estimates. These estimates are based on historical information and on certain assumptions about future events. There is inherent uncertainty in the ultimate cost for known claims under our insurance coverages, and for incidents that have occurred that will be subject to a claim, but have yet to be reported to us. Analyses of historical trends and actuarial valuation methods are utilized to estimate the ultimate claim costs for claims incurred as of the balance sheet date and for claims incurred but not yet reported. When estimating these liabilities, several factors are considered, including the severity, duration and frequency of claims, legal cost associated with claims, healthcare trends and projected inflation.
Our methodology for determining our exposure has remained consistent throughout the years presented. Management believes that the various assumptions developed, and actuarial methods used to determine our casualty insurance reserves are reasonable and provide meaningful data that management uses to make its best estimate of our exposure to these risks. Changes in assumptions for such factors as medical costs and legal actions, as well as changes in actual experience, could cause our estimates to change in the near term which could result in an increase or decrease in the related expense in future periods. A 10% change in our casualty insurance liability at December 28, 2025 would have affected our income before provision for income taxes by approximately $5.1 million in 2025. We had accruals for casualty insurance reserves of $51.2 million and $50.7 million at December 28, 2025 and December 29, 2024, respectively.
Income taxes
The U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate was 21% in each of 2025, 2024 and 2023. Our Federal income tax provision calculated based on the Federal statutory rate was $161.8 million, $151.7 million and $137.0 million in 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. We measure deferred taxes using current enacted tax rates that will apply in the years in which we expect the temporary differences to be recovered or paid. Judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes, related reserves and deferred taxes. These include establishing a valuation allowance related to the ability to realize certain deferred tax assets, if necessary. On an ongoing basis, management will assess whether it remains more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized. Our accounting for deferred taxes represents our best estimate of future events. Except with respect to certain foreign tax credits and interest deductibility in separately filed states, our deferred tax assets assume that we will generate sufficient taxable income in specific tax jurisdictions, based on our estimates and assumptions. As of December 28, 2025 and December 29, 2024, we had total foreign tax credits of $25.1 million and $21.0 million, respectively, each of which were fully offset with a corresponding valuation allowance. We also had valuation allowances related to interest deductibility in separately filed states of $1.2 million and $1.4 million as of December 28, 2025 and December 29, 2024, respectively. We believe our remaining deferred tax assets will be realized. Changes in our current estimates due to unanticipated events could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
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Fiscal 2025 Highlights
Our Hungry for MORE strategy aims to generate MORE sales, MORE stores and MORE profits.
•
MORE Sales: Global retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact (which includes total retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores worldwide), increased 5.4% as compared to 2024. U.S. retail sales increased 4.8% and international retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact, increased 5.9% as compared to 2024. Same store sales increased 3.0% in our U.S. stores and increased 1.9% in our international stores (excluding foreign currency impact).
•
MORE Stores: Global net store growth of 776 stores, including 172 net store openings in the U.S. and 604 net store openings internationally.
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MORE Profits: Income from operations increased 8.5%.
Excluding the negative impact of foreign currency, Domino’s experienced global retail sales growth during 2025, driven by same store sales growth and net store growth in both our U.S. and international businesses. These factors, as well as gross margin dollar improvement within supply chain, also contributed to an increase in income from operations. Overall, we believe our global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, marketing initiatives, operations and emphasis on technology have combined to strengthen our brand. These financial and statistical measures are described in additional detail below.
Statistical Measures
The tables below outline certain statistical measures we utilize to analyze our performance. This historical data is not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for any future period.
Global Retail Sales
Global retail sales is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Global retail sales refers to total worldwide retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores. We believe global retail sales information is useful in analyzing revenues because franchisees pay royalties and, in the U.S., advertising fees that are based on a percentage of franchise retail sales. We review comparable industry global retail sales information to assess business trends and to track the growth of the Domino’s Pizza brand, and we believe they are indicative of the financial health of our franchisee base. In addition, supply chain revenues are directly impacted by changes in franchise retail sales in the U.S. and Canada. As a result, sales by Domino’s franchisees have a direct effect on our profitability. Retail sales for franchised stores are reported to us by our franchisees and are not included in our revenues. The amounts below are presented in millions of U.S. dollars.
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. stores | $ | 9,952.9 | $ | 9,500.1 | $ | 9,026.1 | |||||
| International stores | 10,173.9 | 9,624.1 | 9,249.7 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 20,126.8 | $ | 19,124.2 | $ | 18,275.8 |
Global Retail Sales Growth, Excluding Foreign Currency Impact
Global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, is calculated as the change of international local currency global retail sales against the comparable period of the prior year. Changes in global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact are primarily driven by same store sales growth and net store growth.
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. stores | + 4.8% | + 5.3% | + 3.1% | ||||||||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) | + 5.9% | + 6.5% | + 7.7% | ||||||||
| Total (excluding foreign currency impact) | + 5.4% | + 5.9% | + 5.4% |
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Same Store Sales Growth
Same store sales growth is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Same store sales growth is calculated for a given period by including only sales from stores that also had sales in the comparable weeks of both periods. International same store sales growth is calculated similarly to U.S. same store sales growth. Changes in international same store sales are reported on a constant dollar basis, which reflects changes in international local currency sales. Same store sales growth for transferred stores is reflected in their current classification.
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | + 1.5% | + 3.5% | + 5.4% | |||
| U.S. franchise stores | + 3.0% | + 3.2% | + 1.4% | |||
| U.S. stores | + 3.0% | + 3.2% | + 1.6% | |||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) | + 1.9% | + 1.6% | + 1.7% |
U.S. same store sales increased 3.0% during 2025, rolling over an increase in U.S. same store sales of 3.2% in 2024. The increase in U.S. same store sales was primarily driven by both higher customer transaction counts and higher average ticket, each driven in part by the launch of our Parmesan Stuffed Crust pizza. Multiple windows of our “Best Deal Ever” promotion also drove higher customer transaction counts during 2025. International same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) increased 1.9% during 2025, rolling over an increase in international same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) of 1.6% in 2024. The increase in international same store sales was attributable to higher customer transaction counts.
Net Store Growth
Net store growth is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Net store growth is calculated by netting gross store openings with gross store closures during the period. Transfers between Company-owned stores and franchised stores are excluded from the calculation of net store growth.
| U.S. Company- owned Stores | U.S. Franchise Stores | Total U.S. Stores | International Stores | Total | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Store count at January 1, 2023 | 286 | 6,400 | 6,686 | 13,194 | 19,880 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 4 | 174 | 178 | 892 | 1,070 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (9 | ) | (10 | ) | (349 | ) | (359 | ) | ||||||||||
| Transfers | (1 | ) | 1 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Store count at December 31, 2023 | 288 | 6,566 | 6,854 | 13,737 | 20,591 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 7 | 159 | 166 | 868 | 1,034 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (5 | ) | (6 | ) | (253 | ) | (259 | ) | ||||||||||
| Transfers | (2 | ) | 2 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Store count at December 29, 2024 | 292 | 6,722 | 7,014 | 14,352 | 21,366 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 5 | 174 | 179 | 953 | 1,132 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | — | (7 | ) | (7 | ) | (349 | ) | (356 | ) | |||||||||||
| Transfers | (35 | ) | 35 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Store count at December 28, 2025 | 262 | 6,924 | 7,186 | 14,956 | 22,142 | |||||||||||||||
| Fiscal 2025 net store growth | 5 | 167 | 172 | 604 | 776 |
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Income Statement Data
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 375.2 | $ | 393.9 | $ | 376.2 | ||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 677.1 | 638.2 | 604.9 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,989.5 | 2,845.8 | 2,715.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| International franchise royalties and fees | 338.7 | 318.7 | 310.1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 559.5 | 509.9 | 473.2 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total revenues | 4,940.0 | 100.0 | % | 4,706.4 | 100.0 | % | 4,479.4 | 100.0 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Cost of sales: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. Company-owned stores | 321.6 | 328.0 | 314.7 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,644.8 | 2,529.9 | 2,437.3 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total cost of sales | 2,966.4 | 60.0 | % | 2,857.9 | 60.7 | % | 2,751.9 | 61.4 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Gross margin | 1,973.6 | 40.0 | % | 1,848.5 | 39.3 | % | 1,727.4 | 38.6 | % | |||||||||||||||
| General and administrative | 464.1 | 9.4 | % | 459.5 | 9.8 | % | 434.6 | 9.7 | % | |||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 559.5 | 11.3 | % | 509.9 | 10.8 | % | 473.2 | 10.6 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Refranchising (gain) loss | (4.0 | ) | 0.0 | % | 0.2 | 0.0 | % | 0.1 | 0.0 | % | ||||||||||||||
| Income from operations | 954.0 | 19.3 | % | 879.0 | 18.7 | % | 819.5 | 18.3 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Other (expense) income | (2.5 | ) | 0.0 | % | 22.1 | 0.5 | % | 17.7 | 0.4 | % | ||||||||||||||
| Interest expense, net | (181.1 | ) | (3.7 | )% | (178.8 | ) | (3.9 | )% | (184.8 | ) | (4.1 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Income before provision for income taxes | 770.3 | 15.6 | % | 722.2 | 15.3 | % | 652.4 | 14.6 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | 168.6 | 3.4 | % | 138.0 | 2.9 | % | 133.3 | 3.0 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 601.7 | 12.2 | % | $ | 584.2 | 12.4 | % | $ | 519.1 | 11.6 | % |
2025 compared to 2024
Revenues
| 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 375.2 | 7.6 | % | $ | 393.9 | 8.4 | % | ||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 677.1 | 13.7 | % | 638.2 | 13.6 | % | ||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,989.5 | 60.5 | % | 2,845.8 | 60.4 | % | ||||||||||
| International franchise royalties and fees | 338.7 | 6.9 | % | 318.7 | 6.8 | % | ||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 559.5 | 11.3 | % | 509.9 | 10.8 | % | ||||||||||
| Total revenues | $ | 4,940.0 | 100.0 | % | $ | 4,706.4 | 100.0 | % |
Revenues primarily consist of retail sales from our Company-owned stores, royalties and fees and advertising contributions from our U.S. franchised stores, royalties and fees from our international franchised stores and sales of food and, to a lesser extent, other products from our supply chain centers to substantially all of our U.S. franchised stores and certain international franchised stores. Company-owned store and franchised store revenues may vary from period to period due to changes in store count mix. Supply chain revenues may vary significantly from period to period as a result of fluctuations in commodity prices as well as the mix of products we sell.
Consolidated revenues increased $233.6 million, or 5.0%, in 2025 primarily due to higher supply chain revenues, higher U.S. franchise advertising revenues and higher U.S. franchise royalties and fees. The increase in supply chain revenues was primarily attributable to higher order volumes and an increase in our food basket pricing to stores, but these increases were partially offset by a shift in the relative mix of products we sell and the transition of our equipment and supplies business to a third-party supplier in 2024. The increases in U.S. franchise advertising revenues and U.S. franchise royalties and fees were driven primarily by same store sales growth and net store growth. U.S. franchise advertising revenues also increased as a result of a decrease in advertising incentives and the increase in the advertising contribution rate. These changes in revenues are described in more detail below.
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U.S. Stores
| 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 375.2 | 23.3 | % | $ | 393.9 | 25.5 | % | ||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 677.1 | 42.0 | % | 638.2 | 41.4 | % | ||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 559.5 | 34.7 | % | 509.9 | 33.1 | % | ||||||||||
| Total U.S. stores revenues | $ | 1,611.8 | 100.0 | % | $ | 1,541.9 | 100.0 | % |
U.S. Company-owned Stores
Revenues from U.S. Company-owned store operations decreased $18.7 million, or 4.8%, in 2025 primarily driven by the refranchising of the Maryland market in May 2025, but this decrease was partially offset by higher same store sales.
U.S. Company-owned same store sales increased 1.5% in 2025 and increased 3.5% in 2024.
U.S. Franchise Royalties and Fees
Revenues from U.S. franchise royalties and fees increased $38.9 million, or 6.1%, in 2025 primarily due to higher same store sales and an increase in the average number of U.S. franchised stores open during the period resulting from net store growth.
U.S. franchise same store sales increased 3.0% in 2025 and increased 3.2% in 2024.
U.S. Franchise Advertising
Revenues from U.S. franchise advertising increased $49.6 million, or 9.7%, in 2025 primarily due to a decrease in advertising incentives, higher same store sales, an increase in the average number of U.S. franchised stores open during the period resulting from net store growth and the return to the standard 6.0% advertising contribution rate at the beginning of the second quarter of 2024 following the end of the temporary reduction to 5.75%.
Supply Chain
Supply chain revenues increased $143.7 million, or 5.1%, in 2025 due primarily to an increase in our food basket pricing to stores and higher order volumes. These increases were partially offset by a shift in the relative mix of products we sell and the transition of our equipment and supplies business to a third-party supplier in 2024. Our food basket pricing to stores increased 3.5% during 2025, which resulted in an estimated $142 million increase in supply chain revenues. The food basket pricing change, a statistical measure utilized by management, is calculated as the percentage change of the food basket (including both food and cardboard products) purchased by an average U.S. store (based on average weekly unit sales) from our U.S. supply chain centers against the comparable period of the prior year. We believe this measure is important to understanding Company performance because as our food basket prices fluctuate, our revenues, cost of sales and gross margin percentages in our supply chain segment also fluctuate.
International Franchise Royalties and Fees
Revenues from international franchise royalties and fees increased $20.0 million, or 6.3%, in 2025 primarily due to an increase in the average number of international franchised stores open during the period resulting from net store growth and higher same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact). These increases were partially offset by the negative impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates of approximately $0.6 million in 2025. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on international franchise royalty revenues, a statistical measure utilized by management, is calculated as the difference in international franchise royalty revenues resulting from translating current year local currency results to U.S. dollars at current year exchange rates as compared to prior year exchange rates. We believe this measure is important to understanding Company performance given the significant variability in international franchise royalty revenues that can be driven by changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
International franchise same store sales, excluding the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, increased 1.9% in 2025 and increased 1.6% in 2024.
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Cost of Sales / Gross Margin
| 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total revenues | $ | 4,940.0 | 100.0 | % | $ | 4,706.4 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Total cost of sales | 2,966.4 | 60.0 | % | 2,857.9 | 60.7 | % | ||||||||||
| Gross margin | $ | 1,973.6 | 40.0 | % | $ | 1,848.5 | 39.3 | % |
Consolidated cost of sales consists of U.S. Company-owned store and supply chain costs incurred to generate related revenues. Components of consolidated cost of sales primarily include food and labor costs, as well as other costs including delivery, occupancy costs (including rent, telephone, utilities and depreciation), insurance expense and other. Consolidated gross margin (which we define as revenues less cost of sales) increased $125.1 million, or 6.8%, in 2025 due primarily to higher U.S. franchise advertising, royalties and fees revenues, as well as gross margin dollar growth within supply chain discussed herein. Franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on gross margin. We generally update our supply chain gross margin structure on an annual basis. However, as food basket prices fluctuate, revenues, cost of sales and gross margin percentages in our supply chain segment also fluctuate, and further, cost of sales, gross margins and gross margin percentages for our U.S. Company-owned stores also fluctuate.
Consolidated gross margin as a percentage of revenues increased 0.7 percentage points to 40.0% in 2025 from 39.3% in 2024. U.S. Company-owned store gross margin decreased 2.4 percentage points in 2025 and supply chain gross margin increased 0.4 percentage points in 2025. Changes in the significant components of gross margin are described in more detail below.
U.S. Company-Owned Stores Gross Margin
| 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 375.2 | 100.0 | % | $ | 393.9 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of sales | 321.6 | 85.7 | % | 328.0 | 83.3 | % | ||||||||||
| Store gross margin | $ | 53.5 | 14.3 | % | $ | 65.9 | 16.7 | % |
U.S. Company-owned store gross margin (which does not include certain store-level costs such as royalties and advertising) decreased $12.4 million, or 18.8%, in 2025. As a percentage of store revenues, U.S. Company-owned store gross margin decreased 2.4 percentage points in 2025. These changes in gross margin as a percentage of revenues are discussed in additional detail below.
•
Food costs increased 0.9 percentage points to 29.9% in 2025 driven by the increase in the food basket pricing to stores.
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Labor costs were 31.3% in both 2025 and 2024.
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Higher insurance costs drove the remaining decrease in U.S. Company-owned store gross margin as a percentage of revenues in 2025.
Supply Chain Gross Margin
| 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 2,989.5 | 100.0 | % | $ | 2,845.8 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of sales | 2,644.8 | 88.5 | % | 2,529.9 | 88.9 | % | ||||||||||
| Supply chain gross margin | $ | 344.7 | 11.5 | % | $ | 315.9 | 11.1 | % |
Supply chain gross margin increased $28.9 million, or 9.1%, in 2025. As a percentage of supply chain revenues, supply chain gross margin increased 0.4 percentage points in 2025. These changes in gross margin as a percentage of revenues are discussed in additional detail below.
•
Food costs decreased 0.4 percentage points to 70.9% in 2025 driven primarily by procurement productivity, partially offset by the increase in the cost of our food basket.
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Labor costs decreased 0.3 percentage points to 8.9% in 2025 due primarily to higher sales leverage and labor efficiency.
•
Higher insurance costs partially offset these improvements in supply chain gross margin as a percentage of revenues in 2025.
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General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses increased $4.6 million, or 1.0%, in 2025, primarily due to approximately $5 million in severance expenses associated with an organizational realignment that took place in the first quarter of 2025, as well as higher computer and insurance expenses. These increases were partially offset by expenses related to our Worldwide Rally in the second quarter of 2024, which takes place every two years and did not reoccur in 2025.
U.S. Franchise Advertising Expenses
U.S. franchise advertising expenses increased $49.6 million, or 9.7%, in 2025, consistent with the increase in U.S. franchise advertising revenues, as discussed above. U.S. franchise advertising costs are accrued and expensed when the related U.S. franchise advertising revenues are recognized, as our consolidated not-for-profit advertising fund is obligated to expend such revenues on advertising and other activities that promote the Domino’s brand, and these revenues cannot be used for general corporate purposes.
Refranchising Gain
During 2025, we refranchised 37 U.S. Company-owned stores, primarily in Maryland, for net proceeds of $8.6 million. The pre-tax refranchising gain associated with the sale of the related assets and liabilities, including a $1.4 million reduction in goodwill, was $4.0 million and was recorded in refranchising gain in our consolidated statements of income.
Other (Expense) Income
Other expense was $2.5 million in 2025, while other income was $22.1 million in 2024, each representing the net realized and unrealized losses and gains on our investment in DPC Dash. The recorded amount of our investment is based on the active exchange quoted price for the equity security. Additional information related to our investment in DPC Dash is included in Note 1 and Note 4 to our consolidated financial statements.
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net, increased $2.2 million, or 1.3%, in 2025, due to lower interest income on our cash equivalents. Our weighted average borrowing rate was 3.8% in both 2025 and 2024.
Provision for Income Taxes
Provision for income taxes increased $30.6 million, or 22.2%, in 2025 due to a higher effective tax rate, as well as an increase in income before provision for income taxes. The effective tax rate increased to 21.9% during 2025, as compared to 19.1% in 2024. The increase in the effective tax rate was driven by a 2.7 percentage point unfavorable change in the impact of excess tax benefits from equity-based compensation, which is recorded as a reduction to the provision for income taxes.
We applied the relevant provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act following its enactment on July 4, 2025, including provisions related to bonus depreciation, research and development and foreign derived intangible income and it did not have a material impact on our effective tax rate.
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Segment Income
We evaluate the performance of our reportable segments and allocate resources to them based on earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and other, referred to as Segment Income. Segment Income for each of our reportable segments is summarized in the table below.
| 2025 | 2024 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Stores | $ | 575.3 | $ | 565.4 | |||
| Supply Chain | 320.1 | 280.6 | |||||
| International Franchise | 288.5 | 260.7 |
U.S. Stores
U.S. stores Segment Income increased $10.0 million, or 1.8%, in 2025, primarily due to higher U.S. franchise royalties and fees revenues as discussed above, but this increase was partially offset by the decrease in U.S. Company-owned store gross margin as discussed above, as well as a shift in the relative mix of labor cost associated with internally developed software. U.S. franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on U.S. stores Segment Income. U.S. franchise advertising costs are accrued and expensed when the related U.S. franchise advertising revenues are recognized and had no impact on U.S. stores Segment Income.
Supply Chain
Supply chain Segment Income increased $39.5 million, or 14.1%, in 2025, primarily due to the increase in supply chain gross margin as discussed above.
International Franchise
International franchise Segment Income increased $27.9 million, or 10.7%, in 2025, primarily due to higher international franchise royalties and fees revenues as discussed above. In addition, lower general and administrative expenses also contributed to the increase in international franchise Segment Income in 2025. The decrease in general and administrative expenses primarily related to our Worldwide Rally in the second quarter of 2024, which did not reoccur in 2025 as discussed above. International franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on international franchise Segment Income.
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New Accounting Pronouncements
The impact of new accounting pronouncements adopted and the estimated impact of new accounting pronouncements that we will adopt in future years is included in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Historically, our receivable collection periods and inventory turn rates are faster than the normal payment terms on our current liabilities resulting in efficient deployment of working capital. We generally collect our receivables within three weeks from the date of the related sale and we generally experience multiple inventory turns per month. In addition, our sales are not typically seasonal, which further limits variations in our working capital requirements. As of December 28, 2025, we had working capital of $134.4 million, excluding restricted cash and cash equivalents of $216.1 million, advertising fund assets, restricted of $117.5 million and advertising fund liabilities of $115.4 million. Working capital includes total unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $125.7 million.
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash flows from operations and availability of borrowings under our variable funding notes. During 2025, we experienced an increase in both U.S. and international retail sales (excluding foreign currency impact). Additionally, both our U.S. and international businesses grew store counts during 2025. These factors contributed to our continued ability to generate positive operating cash flows. In addition to our cash flows from operations, we have a variable funding note facility. Our Series 2025-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 Notes (the “2025 Variable Funding Notes”), allows for advances of up to $320.0 million and issuance of certain other credit instruments, including letters of credit. The letters of credit primarily relate to our casualty insurance programs. As of December 28, 2025, we had no outstanding borrowings and $263.6 million of available borrowing capacity under our 2025 Variable Funding Notes, net of letters of credit issued of $56.4 million.
Our primary sources of liquidity could be adversely affected by the occurrence of any of the events described in Item 1A. Risk Factors. There can be no assurance that our business will generate sufficient cash flows from operations or that future borrowings will be available under our 2025 Variable Funding Notes or otherwise to enable us to service our indebtedness, or to make anticipated capital expenditures. Our future operating performance and our ability to service, extend or refinance our Notes (defined below) and to service, extend or refinance our 2025 Variable Funding Notes will be subject to future economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our control.
Restricted Cash
As of December 28, 2025, we had $165.8 million of restricted cash and cash equivalents held for future principal and interest payments and other working capital requirements of our asset-backed securitization structure, $50.1 million of restricted cash equivalents held in a three-month interest reserve as required by the related debt agreements and $0.2 million of other restricted cash for a total of $216.1 million of restricted cash and cash equivalents. As of December 28, 2025, we also held $92.2 million of advertising fund restricted cash and cash equivalents which can only be used for activities that promote the Domino’s brand.
Long-Term Debt
2025 Refinancing
On September 5, 2025, we completed a refinancing transaction (the “2025 Refinancing”) in which certain of our subsidiaries issued new notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consist of $500.0 million Series 2025-1 4.930% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated repayment date of July 2030 (the “2025 Five-Year Notes”) and $500.0 million Series 2025-1 5.217% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated repayment date of July 2032 (the “2025 Seven-Year Notes,” and collectively with the 2025 Five-Year Notes, the “2025 Notes”) in an offering exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
The proceeds from the issuance of the 2025 Notes, as well as $160.0 million of our unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, were used to (i) repay the remaining $742.0 million in outstanding principal under our 2015 Ten-Year Notes and the remaining $402.7 million in outstanding principal under the Company’s 2018 7.5-Year Notes, (ii) prefund a portion of the interest payable on the 2025 Notes and (iii) pay transaction fees and expenses. In connection with the 2025 Refinancing, we capitalized $15.4 million of debt issuance costs, which are being amortized into interest expense over the five and seven-year expected terms of the 2025 Notes. Additional information related to the 2025 Refinancing is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
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2021 Recapitalization
On April 16, 2021, we completed the 2021 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consist of $850.0 million Series 2021-1 2.662% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of 7.5 years (the “2021 7.5-Year Notes”) and $1.0 billion Series 2021-1 3.151% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2021 Ten-Year Notes”, and, collectively with the 2021 7.5-Year Notes, the “2021 Notes”). Additional information related to the 2021 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2019 Recapitalization
On November 19, 2019, we completed the 2019 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued $675.0 million Series 2019-1 3.668% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2 with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2019 Notes”) pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2019 Notes were $675.0 million. Additional information related to the 2019 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2018 Recapitalization
On April 24, 2018, we completed the 2018 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consisted of $425.0 million Series 2018-1 4.116% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with a term of 7.5 years (the “2018 7.5-Year Notes”), and $400.0 million Series 2018-1 4.328% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of 9.25 years (the “2018 9.25-Year Notes”). The 2018 7.5-Year Notes were repaid in connection with the 2025 Refinancing. Additional information related to the 2018 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2017 Recapitalization
On July 24, 2017, we completed the 2017 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consisted of $300.0 million Series 2017-1 Floating Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of five years (the “2017 Floating Rate Notes”), $600.0 million Series 2017-1 3.082% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of five years (the “2017 Five-Year Notes”), and $1.0 billion Series 2017-1 4.118% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-III with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2017 Ten-Year Notes”). The 2017 Floating Rate Notes and the 2017 Five-Year Notes were repaid in connection with the 2021 Recapitalization. Additional information related to the 2017 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2025 Variable Funding Notes
In connection with the 2025 Refinancing, certain of our subsidiaries issued the 2025 Variable Funding Notes. In connection with the issuance of the 2025 Variable Funding Notes, our previous $200.0 million Series 2021-1 and $120.0 million Series 2022-1 variable funding note facilities were canceled. Additional information related to the 2025 Variable Funding Notes is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
Fixed-Rate Notes
The 2025 Notes, 2021 Notes, 2019 Notes, 2018 9.25-Year Notes and 2017 Ten-Year Notes are collectively referred to as the “Notes.”
The Notes have original scheduled principal payments of $49.3 million in 2026, $1.34 billion in 2027, $836.4 million in 2028, $647.8 million in 2029, $495.0 million in 2030, $927.5 million in 2031 and $470.0 million in 2032. However, in accordance with our debt agreements, the payment of principal on the 2025 Notes may be suspended if either the Holdco Leverage Ratio or Senior Leverage Ratio is less than or equal to 5.5x total debt to either Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA or Securitized Net Cash Flow, each as defined in the indenture governing the securitized debt, and no catch-up provisions are applicable. Further, in accordance with our debt agreements, the payment of principal on the 2021 Notes, 2019 Notes, 2018 9.25-Year Notes and 2017 Ten-Year Notes may be suspended if the Holdco Leverage Ratio is less than or equal to 5.0x total debt to Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, each as defined in the indenture governing the securitized debt, and no catch-up provisions are applicable. As of the end of the fourth quarter of 2025 and the end of the fourth quarter of 2024, we satisfied the non-amortization tests for each respective series of notes, and accordingly, the outstanding principal amounts of the notes have been classified as long-term debt in the consolidated balance sheet as of December 28, 2025. As of December 29, 2024, current portion of long-term debt included the outstanding principal amounts under the 2015 Ten-Year Notes and the 2018 7.5-Year Notes for which the anticipated repayment date was October 2025.
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The Notes are subject to certain financial and non-financial covenants, including a debt service coverage ratio calculation. The covenant requires a minimum coverage ratio of 1.75x total debt service to Securitized Net Cash Flow, each as defined in the indenture governing the securitized debt. In the event that certain covenants are not met, the Notes may become due and payable on an accelerated schedule.
Leases
We lease certain retail store and supply chain center locations, supply chain vehicles, various equipment and our World Resource Center under leases with expiration dates through 2045. Refer to Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our leases, including future minimum rental commitments.
Capital Expenditures and Other Material Cash Requirements
In the past three years, we have spent approximately $338.8 million on capital expenditures. In 2025, we spent $120.6 million on capital expenditures which primarily related to investments in our consumer and store technology, supply chain centers, corporate store operations and other corporate capital expenditures. We plan to continue investing in consumer and store technology, supply chain centers and corporate store operations, and we expect that our capital expenditures will be approximately $120 million in 2026. We expect to continue to use our unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, cash flows from operations, any excess cash from our refinancing and recapitalization transactions and available borrowings under our 2025 Variable Funding Notes to, among other things, fund working capital requirements, invest in our core business and other strategic opportunities, repay outstanding borrowings under our securitized debt, pay dividends and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock.
Investments
We hold a non-controlling interest in DPC Dash, our master franchisee in China that owns and operates Domino’s Pizza stores in that market.
As of December 28, 2025 and December 29, 2024, the fair value of our investment in DPC Dash was $36.1 million and $82.7 million, respectively. The fair value of our investment in DPC Dash was based on the active exchange quoted price for the equity security of HK$71.90 per share as of December 28, 2025 and HK$79.25 per share as of December 29, 2024. We owned 3,901,019 and 8,101,019 ordinary shares as of December 28, 2025 and December 29, 2024, representing 3.0% and 6.2% of DPC Dash’s ordinary shares as of the respective dates. We sold 4,200,000 ordinary shares of our investment in DPC Dash in the second quarter of 2025 for net proceeds of $44.1 million. We sold 10,000,000 ordinary shares of our investment in DPC Dash in the fourth quarter of 2024 for $82.9 million. We recorded total net negative and positive adjustments to the carrying amount of our investment in DPC Dash of $2.5 million and $22.1 million in 2025 and 2024, respectively, with the net realized and unrealized losses and gains recorded in other expense and other income in our consolidated statements of income, respectively.
Share Repurchase Programs
Our share repurchase programs have historically been funded by excess operating cash flows, excess proceeds from our recapitalization transactions and borrowings under our variable funding notes. We used cash of $354.7 million in 2025, $327.0 million in 2024 and $269.0 million in 2023 for share repurchases.
As of December 28, 2025, we had $459.7 million remaining under the $1.0 billion share repurchase authorization approved by our Board of Directors on February 21, 2024 for repurchases of shares of our common stock.
Dividends
We declared dividends of $237.3 million (or $6.96 per share) in 2025, $210.7 million (or $6.04 per share) in 2024 and $170.4 million (or $4.84 per share) in 2023. We paid dividends of $236.9 million, $209.9 million and $169.8 million in 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Subsequent to the end of fiscal 2025, on February 18, 2026, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $1.99 per common share payable on March 30, 2026 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 13, 2026.
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Sources and Uses of Cash
The following table illustrates the main components of our cash flows:
| Fiscal Year Ended | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In millions) | December 28, 2025 | December 29, 2024 | ||||||
| Cash flows provided by (used in): | ||||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 792.1 | $ | 624.9 | ||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (70.2 | ) | (31.2 | ) | ||||
| Net cash used in financing activities | (752.1 | ) | (532.2 | ) | ||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash | 1.8 | (2.2 | ) | |||||
| Change in cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and cash equivalents | $ | (28.4 | ) | $ | 59.3 |
Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities increased $167.2 million in 2025 primarily as a result of the positive impact of changes in operating assets and liabilities of $98.2 million, primarily related to the timing of vendor payments in 2025 as compared to 2024. Additionally, net income increased $17.5 million and non-cash adjustments increased $33.8 million (primarily representing the changes in the total net realized and unrealized losses and gains associated with the remeasurement of the Company’s investment in DPC Dash and changes in deferred income taxes), resulting in an overall increase to cash provided by operating activities in 2025 as compared to 2024 of $51.3 million. The positive change in advertising fund assets and liabilities, restricted of $17.7 million in 2025 as compared to 2024 also contributed to the increase in cash provided by operating activities and was driven by receipts for advertising contributions outpacing payments for advertising activities.
Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities was $70.2 million in 2025, which consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $120.6 million (driven primarily by investments in consumer and store technology, supply chain centers, corporate store operations and other corporate capital expenditures). These investing cash outflows were partially offset by the net proceeds from the sale of 4,200,000 ordinary shares of our investment in DPC Dash for $44.1 million and the net proceeds of $8.6 million for the refranchising of 37 U.S. Company-owned stores primarily in the Maryland market.
Cash used in investing activities was $31.2 million in 2024, which consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $112.9 million (driven primarily by investments in consumer and store technology, supply chain centers and corporate store operations). These investing cash outflows were partially offset by the net proceeds from the sale of 10,000,000 ordinary shares of our investment in DPC Dash for $82.9 million.
Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities was $752.1 million in 2025. In connection with the 2025 Refinancing, we issued $1.00 billion of new notes including $500.0 million 2025 Five-Year Notes and $500.0 million 2025 Seven-Year Notes. We used the proceeds from the issuance of the 2025 Notes, as well as $160.0 million of our unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, to repay the remaining $742.0 million in outstanding principal under our 2015 Ten-Year Notes and the remaining $402.7 million in outstanding principal under our 2018 7.5-Year Notes and to pay $15.4 million in debt issuance costs. We repurchased and retired $354.7 million in shares of our common stock under our Board of Directors-approved share repurchase program, as well as made $3.0 million in excise tax payments related to our share repurchase programs. We also made dividend payments to our shareholders of $236.9 million, had tax payments for the vesting of restricted stock of $11.4 million and made repayments of principal amounts related to our finance leases and other financing obligations of $4.8 million. These uses of cash were partially offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $18.8 million.
Cash used in financing activities was $532.2 million in 2024. We repurchased and retired $327.0 million in shares of our common stock under our Board of Directors-approved share repurchase program, as well as made $2.6 million in excise tax payments related to our share repurchase programs. We also made dividend payments to our shareholders of $209.9 million. We also made repayments of long-term debt and principal amounts related to our finance leases and other financing obligations of $17.6 million and had tax payments for the vesting of restricted stock of $11.1 million. These uses of cash were partially offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $36.0 million.
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Impact of Inflation
Given the inflation rates in recent years, there have been and may continue to be increases in food, labor, insurance and occupancy costs which have and could further impact our profitability and that of our franchisees and which could impact the opening of new U.S. and international franchised stores and adversely affect our operating results. Factors such as inflation, increased food costs, increased labor and employee health and benefit costs, increased rent costs, increased insurance costs and increased energy costs may adversely affect our operating costs and profitability and those of our franchisees and could result in menu price increases. The impact of inflation is described with respect to our food basket pricing to stores and our labor and insurance cost, in the discussion of supply chain revenues and U.S. Company-owned store and supply chain gross margins, above. Severe increases in inflation could affect the global and U.S. economies and could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further discussion on the impact of commodities and other cost pressures is included above, as well as in Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
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SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
This Form 10-K includes various forward-looking statements about the Company within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”) that are based on current management expectations that involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. The following cautionary statements are being made pursuant to the provisions of the Act and with the intention of obtaining the benefits of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Act.
These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “should,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “approximately,” “potential,” “outlook” and similar terms and phrases that concern our strategy, plans or intentions, including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements address various matters including information concerning future results of operations and business strategy, the expected demand for future pizza delivery and carryout, our expectation that we will meet the terms of our agreement with our third-party supplier of pizza cheese, our belief that alternative third-party suppliers are available for our key ingredients in the event we are required to replace any of our supply partners, our intention to continue to enhance and grow online ordering, digital marketing and technological capabilities, our expectation that there will be no material environmental compliance-related capital expenditures, our plans to expand U.S. and international operations in many of the markets where we currently operate and in selected new markets, our expectation that the obligation for advertising fees payable to DNAF will remain in place for the foreseeable future, and the availability of our borrowings under the 2025 Variable Funding Notes for, among other things, funding working capital requirements, paying capital expenditures and funding other general corporate purposes, including payment of dividends.
Forward-looking statements relating to our anticipated profitability, estimates in same store sales growth, store growth and the growth of our U.S. and international business in general, ability to service our indebtedness, our future cash flows, our operating performance, trends in our business and other descriptions of future events reflect management’s expectations based upon currently available information and data. While we believe these expectations and projections are based on reasonable assumptions, such forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, including the risk factors listed under Item 1A. Risk Factors, as well as other cautionary language in this Form 10-K.
Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including but not limited to, the following:
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our substantial indebtedness and our ability to incur additional indebtedness or refinance or renegotiate key terms of that indebtedness in the future;
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the impact a downgrade in our credit rating may have on our business, financial condition and results of operations;
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our future financial performance and our ability to pay principal and interest on our indebtedness;
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the strength of our brand, including our ability to compete in the U.S. and internationally in our intensely competitive industry, including the food service and food delivery markets;
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our ability to successfully implement our growth strategy, including through our participation in the third-party order aggregation marketplace;
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labor shortages or changes in operating expenses resulting from increases in prices of food (particularly cheese), fuel and other commodity costs, labor, utilities, insurance, employee benefits and other operating costs or negative economic conditions;
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the effectiveness of our advertising, operations and promotional initiatives;
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shortages, interruptions or disruptions in the supply or delivery of fresh food products and store equipment;
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the additional risks our international operations subject us to, which may differ in each country in which we and our franchisees do business;
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the dependence of our earnings and business growth strategy on the success of our franchisees;
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our ability and that of our franchisees to successfully operate in the current and future credit environment;
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the impact of social media, the rise of AI-generated content, or a boycott on our business, brand and reputation;
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the impact of new or improved technologies, including AI, and alternative methods of delivery on consumer behavior;
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new product, digital ordering and concept developments by us, and other food-industry competitors;
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our ability to maintain good relationships with and attract new franchisees and franchisees’ ability to successfully manage their operations without negatively impacting our royalty payments and fees or our brand’s reputation;
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our ability to successfully implement cost-saving strategies;
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changes in the level of consumer spending given general economic conditions, including interest rates, energy prices and consumer confidence or negative economic conditions in general;
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our ability and that of our franchisees to open new restaurants and keep existing restaurants in operation and maintain demand for new stores;
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the impact that widespread illness, health epidemics or general health concerns, severe weather conditions and natural disasters may have on our business and the economies of the countries where we operate;
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changes in foreign currency exchange rates;
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changes in income tax rates;
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our ability to retain or replace our executive officers and other key members of management and our ability to adequately staff our stores and supply chain centers with qualified personnel;
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our ability to find and/or retain suitable real estate for our stores and supply chain centers;
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changes in government legislation or regulation, including changes in laws and regulations regarding information privacy, payment methods, advertising and consumer protection and social media;
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adverse legal judgments or settlements;
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food-borne illness or contamination of products or food tampering or other events that may impact our reputation;
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data breaches, power loss, technological failures, user error or other cyber risks threatening us or our franchisees;
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the impact that environmental, social and governance matters may have on our business and reputation;
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the effect of war, terrorism, catastrophic events, geopolitical or reputational considerations or climate change;
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our ability to pay dividends and repurchase shares;
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changes in consumer taste, spending and traffic patterns and demographic trends;
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changes in accounting policies; and
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adequacy of our insurance coverage.
In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this Form 10-K might not occur. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Form 10-K and should be evaluated with an understanding of their inherent uncertainty. Except as required under federal securities laws and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, we will not undertake, and specifically disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances arising after the date of this Form 10-K, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-K or that may be made elsewhere from time to time by, or on behalf of, us. All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements.
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MD&A history
Prior-year 10-K MD&A spans are extracted from SEC filings with the same bounded parser used for the latest filing. The latest 10-K appears above; prior years are below.
FY 2024 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000950170-25-025223.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Overview
Our fiscal year typically includes 52 weeks, comprised of three twelve-week quarters and one sixteen-week quarter.
In this section, we discuss the results of our operations for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2024 compared to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023. For a discussion of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the fiscal year ended January 1, 2023, please refer to Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
Description of the Business
Domino’s is the largest pizza company in the world with more than 21,300 locations in over 90 markets around the world as of December 29, 2024, and operates two distinct service models within its stores, with a significant business in both delivery and carryout. We are a highly recognized global brand, and we focus on value while serving neighborhoods locally through our large worldwide network of franchise owners and U.S. Company-owned stores through both the delivery and carryout service models. We have been selling quality, affordable food to our customers since 1960. We became “Domino’s Pizza” in 1965 and opened our first franchised store in 1967. Over more than 60 years, we have built Domino’s into one of the most widely-recognized consumer brands in the world. We believe our commitment to value, convenience, quality and new products continues to keep consumers engaged with the brand.
We are primarily a franchisor, with approximately 99% of Domino’s global stores owned and operated by our independent franchisees as of December 29, 2024. Franchising enables an individual to be a business owner and maintain control over all employment-related matters and pricing decisions, while also benefiting from the strength of the Domino’s global brand and operating system with limited capital investment by us.
Domino’s business model is straightforward: Domino’s stores handcraft and serve quality food at a competitive price, with easy ordering access and efficient service, enhanced by our technological innovations. We also have a global agreement with Uber Technologies, Inc. to allow customers to order Domino’s products through their marketplace. Our hand-tossed dough is made fresh and distributed to stores around the world by us and our franchisees.
Domino’s generates revenues and earnings by charging royalties and fees to our franchisees. Royalties are ongoing percent-of-sales fees for use of the Domino’s® brand marks. We also generate revenues and earnings by selling food and other products to franchisees through our supply chain operations primarily in the U.S. and Canada and by operating a number of Company-owned stores in the U.S. Franchisees profit by selling pizza and other complementary items to their local customers. In our international markets, we generally grant geographical rights to the Domino’s Pizza® brand to master franchisees. These master franchisees are charged with developing their geographical area, and they may profit by sub-franchising and selling food and equipment to those sub-franchisees, as well as by running pizza stores. We believe that everyone in the system can benefit from the franchise model, including the end consumer, who can purchase Domino’s menu items for themselves and their family conveniently and economically.
Domino’s business model can yield strong returns for our franchise owners and our Company-owned stores. It can also yield significant cash flows to us, through a consistent franchise royalty payment and supply chain revenue stream, through an asset-light model. We have historically returned cash to shareholders through dividend payments and share repurchases. At Domino’s, we believe we have a proven business model for success that has historically driven strong returns for our shareholders.
Domino’s financial results are driven largely by retail sales at our franchised and Company-owned stores. Changes in retail sales are primarily driven by same store sales growth and net store growth. We actively monitor both of these metrics, as they directly impact our revenues and profits, and we strive to consistently increase both metrics. Retail sales drive royalty payments from franchisees, as well as Company-owned store and supply chain revenues.
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Critical accounting estimates
The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires our management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, our management evaluates its estimates, including those related to long-lived assets, casualty insurance reserves and income taxes. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from those estimates, and changes in estimates could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition for any particular period.
We believe that our most critical accounting estimates are:
Long-lived assets
We record long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and capitalized software, at cost. For acquisitions of franchise operations, we estimate the fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired based on physical inspection of assets, historical experience and other information available to us regarding the acquisition. We depreciate and amortize long-lived assets using useful lives determined by us based on historical experience and other information available to us. We evaluate the potential impairment of long-lived assets at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Our periodic evaluation is based on various analyses, including, on an annual basis, the projection of undiscounted cash flows. If we determine that the carrying amount of an asset (or asset group) may not be recoverable, we compare the net carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted net cash flows to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of that asset group. For Company-owned stores, we perform related impairment tests on an operating market basis, which we have determined to be the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of other cash flows. If the carrying amount of a long-lived asset exceeds the amount of the expected future undiscounted cash flows of that asset, we estimate the fair value of the asset. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the estimated fair value of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized, and the asset is written down to its estimated fair value.
We have not made any significant changes in the methodology used to project the future market cash flows of Company-owned stores during the years presented. Same store sales fluctuations and the rates at which operating costs will fluctuate in the future are key factors in determining projected cash flows used to evaluate recoverability of the related assets. If our same store sales significantly decline or if operating costs increase and we are unable to recover these costs, the carrying value of our Company-owned stores, by market, may not be recoverable and we may be required to recognize an impairment charge. There were no triggering events in 2024, 2023 or 2022, and accordingly, we did not record any impairment losses on long-lived assets in 2024, 2023 and 2022.
Casualty insurance reserves
For certain periods prior to December 1998 and for periods after December 2001, we maintain insurance coverage for workers’ compensation, general liability and owned and non-owned automobile liabilities. We are generally responsible for up to $1.0 million per occurrence under these retention programs for workers’ compensation and up to $2.0 million per occurrence under these retention programs for general liability, depending on policy year and line of coverage. We are generally responsible for up to between $500,000 and $5.5 million per occurrence under these retention programs for owned and non-owned automobile liabilities, depending on policy year and line of coverage. The related insurance reserves are based on undiscounted independent actuarial estimates, which are based on historical information along with assumptions about future events. There is inherent uncertainty in the ultimate cost for known claims under our insurance coverages, and for incidents that have occurred that will be subject to a claim, but have yet to be reported to us. Analyses of historical trends and actuarial valuation methods are utilized to estimate the ultimate claim costs for claims incurred as of the balance sheet date and for claims incurred but not yet reported. When estimating these liabilities, several factors are considered, including the severity, duration and frequency of claims, legal cost associated with claims, healthcare trends and projected inflation.
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Our methodology for determining our exposure has remained consistent throughout the years presented. Management believes that the various assumptions developed, and actuarial methods used to determine our casualty insurance reserves are reasonable and provide meaningful data that management uses to make its best estimate of our exposure to these risks. Changes in assumptions for such factors as medical costs and legal actions, as well as changes in actual experience, could cause our estimates to change in the near term which could result in an increase or decrease in the related expense in future periods. A 10% change in our casualty insurance liability at December 29, 2024 would have affected our income before provision for income taxes by approximately $5.1 million in 2024. We had accruals for casualty insurance reserves of $50.7 million and $56.3 million at December 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.
Income taxes
The U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate was 21% in each of 2024, 2023 and 2022. Our Federal income tax provision calculated based on the Federal statutory rate was $151.7 million, $137.0 million and $120.3 million in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. We measure deferred taxes using current enacted tax rates that will apply in the years in which we expect the temporary differences to be recovered or paid. Judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes, related reserves and deferred taxes. These include establishing a valuation allowance related to the ability to realize certain deferred tax assets, if necessary. On an ongoing basis, management will assess whether it remains more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized. Our accounting for deferred taxes represents our best estimate of future events. Except with respect to certain foreign tax credits and interest deductibility in separately filed states, our deferred tax assets assume that we will generate sufficient taxable income in specific tax jurisdictions, based on our estimates and assumptions. As of December 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023, we had total foreign tax credits of $21.0 million and $16.8 million, respectively, each of which were fully offset with a corresponding valuation allowance. We also had valuation allowances related to interest deductibility in separately filed states of $1.4 million and $1.4 million as of December 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. We believe our remaining deferred tax assets will be realized. Changes in our current estimates due to unanticipated events could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
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Fiscal 2024 Highlights
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MORE Sales: Global retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact (which includes total retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores worldwide), increased 5.9% as compared to 2023. U.S. retail sales increased 5.3% and international retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact, increased 6.5%, as compared to 2023. Same store sales increased 3.2% in our U.S. stores and increased 1.6% in our international stores (excluding foreign currency impact).
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MORE Stores: Global net store growth of 775 stores, including 160 net store openings in the U.S. and 615 net store openings internationally.
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MORE Profits: Income from operations increased 7.3%.
Excluding the negative impact of foreign currency, Domino’s experienced global retail sales growth during 2024, driven by same store sales growth and net store growth in both our U.S. and international businesses. These factors, as well as gross margin dollar improvement within supply chain driven primarily by procurement productivity, also contributed to an increase in income from operations. Overall, we believe our global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, marketing initiatives, operations and emphasis on technology have combined to strengthen our brand. These financial and statistical measures are described in additional detail below.
Statistical Measures
The tables below outline certain statistical measures we utilize to analyze our performance. This historical data is not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for any future period.
Global Retail Sales
Global retail sales is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Global retail sales refers to total worldwide retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores. We believe global retail sales information is useful in analyzing revenues because franchisees pay royalties and, in the U.S., advertising fees that are based on a percentage of franchise retail sales. We review comparable industry global retail sales information to assess business trends and to track the growth of the Domino’s Pizza brand, and we believe they are indicative of the financial health of our franchisee base. In addition, supply chain revenues are directly impacted by changes in franchise retail sales in the U.S. and Canada. As a result, sales by Domino’s franchisees have a direct effect on our profitability. Retail sales for franchised stores are reported to us by our franchisees and are not included in our revenues. The amounts below are presented in millions of U.S. dollars.
| 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. stores | $ | 9,500.1 | $ | 9,026.1 | $ | 8,751.7 | |||||
| International stores | 9,624.1 | 9,249.7 | 8,788.2 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 19,124.2 | $ | 18,275.8 | $ | 17,539.9 |
Global Retail Sales Growth, Excluding Foreign Currency Impact
Global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, is calculated as the change of international local currency global retail sales against the comparable period of the prior year. Changes in global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact are primarily driven by same store sales growth and net store growth.
| 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. stores | + 5.3% | + 3.1% | + 1.3% | ||||||||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) (1) | + 6.5% | + 7.7% | + 6.3% | ||||||||
| Total (excluding foreign currency impact) (2) | + 5.9% | + 5.4% | + 3.9% |
| (1) | 2024 fiscal year figure excludes the impact of the Russia market. Including the impact of the Russia market, international stores retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, was 6.1%. | |
|---|---|---|
| (2) | 2024 fiscal year figure excludes the impact of the Russia market. Including the impact of the Russia market, total global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, was 5.7%. |
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Same Store Sales Growth
Same store sales growth is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Same store sales growth is calculated for a given period by including only sales from stores that also had sales in the comparable weeks of both periods. International same store sales growth is calculated similarly to U.S. same store sales growth. Changes in international same store sales are reported on a constant dollar basis, which reflects changes in international local currency sales. Same store sales growth for transferred stores is reflected in their current classification.
| 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | + 3.5% | + 5.4% | (2.6)% | |||
| U.S. franchise stores | + 3.2% | + 1.4% | (0.7)% | |||
| U.S. stores | + 3.2% | + 1.6% | (0.8)% | |||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) | + 1.6% | + 1.7% | + 0.1% |
U.S. same store sales increased 3.2% during 2024, rolling over an increase in U.S. same store sales of 1.6% in 2023. The increase in U.S. same store sales was primarily driven by higher orders resulting from our Domino’s Rewards loyalty program and other national offers, as well as from Uber’s order aggregation marketplace. International same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) increased 1.6% during 2024, rolling over an increase in international same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) of 1.7% in 2023. The increase in international same store sales was attributable to higher customer transaction counts, as well as a slightly higher average ticket per transaction.
Net Store Growth
Net store growth is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Net store growth is calculated by netting gross store openings with gross store closures during the period. Transfers between Company-owned stores and franchised stores are excluded from the calculation of net store growth.
| U.S. Company- owned Stores | U.S. Franchise Stores | Total U.S. Stores | International Stores | Total | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Store count at January 2, 2022 | 375 | 6,185 | 6,560 | 12,288 | 18,848 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 5 | 136 | 141 | 1,135 | 1,276 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (3 | ) | (12 | ) | (15 | ) | (229 | ) | (244 | ) | ||||||||||
| Transfers | (91 | ) | 91 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Store count at January 1, 2023 | 286 | 6,400 | 6,686 | 13,194 | 19,880 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 4 | 174 | 178 | 892 | 1,070 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (9 | ) | (10 | ) | (349 | ) | (359 | ) | ||||||||||
| Transfers | (1 | ) | 1 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Store count at December 31, 2023 | 288 | 6,566 | 6,854 | 13,737 | 20,591 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 7 | 159 | 166 | 868 | 1,034 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (5 | ) | (6 | ) | (253 | ) | (259 | ) | ||||||||||
| Transfers | (2 | ) | 2 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Store count at December 29, 2024 | 292 | 6,722 | 7,014 | 14,352 | 21,366 | |||||||||||||||
| Fiscal 2024 net store growth | 6 | 154 | 160 | 615 | 775 |
Russia Market
On August 21, 2023, our master franchisee that owned and operated Domino’s Pizza® stores in Russia announced its intent to file for bankruptcy with respect to the stores in that market. Therefore, as of August 21, 2023, we have considered the stores in the Russia market to be closed and they are excluded from our ending store count as of the end of the third quarter of 2023. We have presented our statistical measure of global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact for fiscal 2024 excluding the retail sales from the Russia market from the 2023 retail sales base. We believe the impact of the Russia market on our statistical measure of global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact for the other periods presented was immaterial. We believe the impact of the Russia market on our statistical measure of same store sales growth for the periods presented was immaterial, and we also believe the impact of the Russia market on our consolidated statements of income related to international franchise royalties and fee revenues and general and administrative expenses for the periods presented was immaterial. We have not received any royalties and fees from the operations of the Russia market subsequent to the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
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Income Statement Data
(tabular amounts in millions, except percentages)
| 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 393.9 | $ | 376.2 | $ | 445.8 | ||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 638.2 | 604.9 | 556.3 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,845.8 | 2,715.0 | 2,754.7 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| International franchise royalties and fees | 318.7 | 310.1 | 295.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 509.9 | 473.2 | 485.3 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total revenues | 4,706.4 | 100.0 | % | 4,479.4 | 100.0 | % | 4,537.2 | 100.0 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Cost of sales: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. Company-owned stores | 328.0 | 314.7 | 378.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,529.9 | 2,437.3 | 2,510.5 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total cost of sales | 2,857.9 | 60.7 | % | 2,751.9 | 61.4 | % | 2,888.6 | 63.7 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Gross margin | 1,848.5 | 39.3 | % | 1,727.4 | 38.6 | % | 1,648.6 | 36.3 | % | |||||||||||||||
| General and administrative | 459.5 | 9.8 | % | 434.6 | 9.7 | % | 416.5 | 9.2 | % | |||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 509.9 | 10.8 | % | 473.2 | 10.6 | % | 485.3 | 10.7 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Refranchising loss (gain) | 0.2 | 0.0 | % | 0.1 | 0.0 | % | (21.2 | ) | (0.5 | )% | ||||||||||||||
| Income from operations | 879.0 | 18.7 | % | 819.5 | 18.3 | % | 767.9 | 16.9 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Other income | 22.1 | 0.5 | % | 17.7 | 0.4 | % | — | 0.0 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Interest expense, net | (178.8 | ) | (3.9 | )% | (184.8 | ) | (4.1 | )% | (195.1 | ) | (4.3 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Income before provision for income taxes | 722.2 | 15.3 | % | 652.4 | 14.6 | % | 572.8 | 12.6 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | 138.0 | 2.9 | % | 133.3 | 3.0 | % | 120.6 | 2.6 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 584.2 | 12.4 | % | $ | 519.1 | 11.6 | % | $ | 452.3 | 10.0 | % |
2024 compared to 2023
(tabular amounts in millions, except percentages)
Revenues
| 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 393.9 | 8.4 | % | $ | 376.2 | 8.4 | % | ||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 638.2 | 13.6 | % | 604.9 | 13.5 | % | ||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,845.8 | 60.4 | % | 2,715.0 | 60.6 | % | ||||||||||
| International franchise royalties and fees | 318.7 | 6.8 | % | 310.1 | 6.9 | % | ||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 509.9 | 10.8 | % | 473.2 | 10.6 | % | ||||||||||
| Total revenues | $ | 4,706.4 | 100.0 | % | $ | 4,479.4 | 100.0 | % |
Revenues primarily consist of retail sales from our Company-owned stores, royalties and fees and advertising contributions from our U.S. franchised stores, royalties and fees from our international franchised stores and sales of food and other products from our supply chain centers to substantially all of our U.S. franchised stores and certain international franchised stores. Company-owned store and franchised store revenues may vary from period to period due to changes in store count mix. Supply chain revenues may vary significantly from period to period as a result of fluctuations in commodity prices as well as the mix of products we sell.
Consolidated revenues increased $227.1 million, or 5.1%, in 2024 due primarily to higher supply chain revenues, higher global franchise royalties and fees and higher advertising revenues. The increase in supply chain revenues was primarily attributable to higher order volumes, as well as an increase in the Company’s food basket pricing to stores. Global franchise royalties and fees increased primarily as a result of higher same store sales and net store growth, and U.S. franchise advertising revenues increased primarily as a result of the increase in the advertising contribution rate, higher same store sales and net store growth. These changes in revenues are described in more detail below.
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U.S. Stores
| 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 393.9 | 25.5 | % | $ | 376.2 | 25.9 | % | ||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 638.2 | 41.4 | % | 604.9 | 41.6 | % | ||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 509.9 | 33.1 | % | 473.2 | 32.5 | % | ||||||||||
| Total U.S. stores revenues | $ | 1,541.9 | 100.0 | % | $ | 1,454.3 | 100.0 | % |
U.S. Company-owned Stores
Revenues from U.S. Company-owned store operations increased $17.7 million, or 4.7%, in 2024 primarily due to higher same store sales and net store growth.
U.S. Company-owned same store sales increased 3.5% in 2024 and increased 5.4% in 2023.
U.S. Franchise Royalties and Fees
Revenues from U.S. franchise royalties and fees increased $33.3 million, or 5.5%, in 2024 primarily due to higher same store sales and net store growth. Additionally, U.S. franchise royalties and fees benefited from an increase in digital transactions which resulted in an increase in fees paid by our franchisees for the use of our technology platforms, but this increase was partially offset by a net $0.04 decrease in the digital per transaction technology fee to $0.355 effectuated as of March 25, 2024.
U.S. franchise same store sales increased 3.2% in 2024 and increased 1.4% in 2023.
U.S. Franchise Advertising
Revenues from U.S. franchise advertising increased $36.7 million, or 7.7%, in 2024 primarily due to higher same store sales and net store growth, as well as the return to the standard 6.0% advertising contribution rate at the beginning of the second quarter of 2024 following the end of the temporary reduction to 5.75% which began in the second quarter of 2023.
Supply Chain
Supply chain revenues increased $130.8 million, or 4.8%, in 2024 due primarily to higher order volumes, as well as an increase in our food basket pricing to stores. These increases were partially offset by a shift in the relative mix of products we sell, as well as the transition of our equipment and supplies business to a third-party supplier. Our food basket pricing to stores increased 1.4% during 2024, which resulted in an estimated $34 million increase in supply chain revenues. The food basket pricing change, a statistical measure utilized by management, is calculated as the percentage change of the food basket (including both food and cardboard products) purchased by an average U.S. store (based on average weekly unit sales) from our U.S. supply chain centers against the comparable period of the prior year. We believe this measure is important to understanding Company performance because as our food basket prices fluctuate, our revenues, cost of sales and gross margin percentages in our supply chain segment also fluctuate.
International Franchise Royalties and Fee Revenues
Revenues from international franchise royalties and fees increased $8.6 million, or 2.8%, in 2024 due primarily to net store growth and same store sales growth (excluding foreign currency impact), but this increase was partially offset by the negative impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates of approximately $5.8 million in 2024. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on international franchise royalty revenues, a statistical measure utilized by management, is calculated as the difference in international franchise royalty revenues resulting from translating current year local currency results to U.S. dollars at current year exchange rates as compared to prior year exchange rates. We believe this measure is important to understanding Company performance given the significant variability in international franchise royalty revenues that can be driven by changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
International franchise same store sales, excluding the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, increased 1.6% in 2024 and increased 1.7% in 2023.
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Cost of Sales / Gross Margin
| 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total revenues | $ | 4,706.4 | 100.0 | % | $ | 4,479.4 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Total cost of sales | 2,857.9 | 60.7 | % | 2,751.9 | 61.4 | % | ||||||||||
| Gross margin | $ | 1,848.5 | 39.3 | % | $ | 1,727.4 | 38.6 | % |
Consolidated cost of sales consists of U.S. Company-owned store and supply chain costs incurred to generate related revenues. Components of consolidated cost of sales primarily include food and labor costs, as well as other costs including delivery, occupancy costs (including rent, telephone, utilities and depreciation) and insurance expense. Consolidated gross margin (which we define as revenues less cost of sales) increased $121.1 million, or 7.0%, in 2024 due primarily to higher global franchise revenues, as well as gross margin dollar growth within supply chain, discussed below. Franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on gross margin. We generally update our supply chain gross margin structure on an annual basis. However, as food basket prices fluctuate, revenues, cost of sales and gross margin percentages in our supply chain segment also fluctuate, and further, cost of sales, gross margins and gross margin percentages for our U.S. Company-owned stores also fluctuate.
As a percentage of revenues, the consolidated gross margin increased 0.7 percentage points to 39.3% in 2024 from 38.6% in 2023. U.S. Company-owned store gross margin increased 0.3 percentage points in 2024, and supply chain gross margin increased 0.9 percentage points in 2024. Changes in the significant components of gross margin are described in more detail below.
U.S. Company-Owned Stores Gross Margin
| 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 393.9 | 100.0 | % | $ | 376.2 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of sales | 328.0 | 83.3 | % | 314.7 | 83.6 | % | ||||||||||
| Store gross margin | $ | 65.9 | 16.7 | % | $ | 61.5 | 16.4 | % |
U.S. Company-owned store gross margin (which does not include certain store-level costs such as royalties and advertising) increased $4.4 million, or 7.2%, in 2024. As a percentage of store revenues, U.S. Company-owned store gross margin increased 0.3 percentage points in 2024. These changes in gross margin as a percentage of revenues are discussed in additional detail below.
•
Food costs decreased 0.1 percentage points to 29.0% in 2024.
•
Labor costs decreased 0.3 percentage points to 31.3% in 2024 due to labor cost improvements as a result of store level productivity and sales leverage driven by higher order counts. These improvements in labor cost were partially offset by higher wage rates in our U.S. Company-owned stores.
Supply Chain Gross Margin
| 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 2,845.8 | 100.0 | % | $ | 2,715.0 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of sales | 2,529.9 | 88.9 | % | 2,437.3 | 89.8 | % | ||||||||||
| Supply chain gross margin | $ | 315.9 | 11.1 | % | $ | 277.7 | 10.2 | % |
Supply chain gross margin increased $38.2 million, or 13.7%, in 2024. As a percentage of supply chain revenues, supply chain gross margin increased 0.9 percentage points in 2024. These changes in gross margin as a percentage of revenues are discussed in additional detail below.
•
Food costs decreased 1.1 percentage points to 71.3% in 2024 driven primarily by procurement productivity. The increase in the commodity costs within our food basket sold to stores partially offset this improvement.
•
Labor costs increased 0.1 percentage points to 9.2% in 2024 due primarily to higher wage rates in our supply chain centers in 2024.
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General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses increased $24.9 million, or 5.7%, in 2024 due primarily to higher labor costs, partially offset by a shift in the timing of investments.
U.S. Franchise Advertising Expenses
U.S. franchise advertising expenses increased $36.7 million, or 7.7%, in 2024, consistent with the increase in U.S. franchise advertising revenues as discussed above. U.S. franchise advertising costs are accrued and expensed when the related U.S. franchise advertising revenues are recognized, as our consolidated not-for-profit advertising fund is obligated to expend such revenues on advertising and other activities that promote the Domino’s brand, and these revenues cannot be used for general corporate purposes.
Other Income
Other income was $22.1 million and $17.7 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively, representing the net realized and unrealized gains on our investment in DPC Dash. The recorded amount of our investment is based on the active exchange quoted price for the equity security. Additional information related to our investment in DPC Dash is included in Note 1 and Note 4 to our consolidated financial statements.
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net, decreased $5.9 million, or 3.2%, in 2024 driven by higher interest income earned on our cash equivalents in 2024. Our weighted average borrowing rate was 3.8% in both 2024 and 2023.
Provision for Income Taxes
Provision for income taxes increased $4.7 million, or 3.5%, in 2024 due to an increase in income before the provision for income taxes, partially offset by a lower effective tax rate. The effective tax rate decreased to 19.1% during 2024, as compared to 20.4% in 2023. The lower effective tax rate in 2024 was driven by a 2.6 percentage point favorable change in the impact of excess tax benefits from equity-based compensation, which is recorded as a reduction to the provision for income taxes. Lower foreign derived intangible income deductions partially offset the decrease in the effective tax rate.
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Segment Income
We evaluate the performance of our reportable segments and allocate resources to them based on earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and other, referred to as Segment Income. Segment Income for each of our reportable segments is summarized in the table below.
| 2024 | 2023 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Stores | $ | 565.4 | $ | 521.0 | |||
| Supply Chain | 280.6 | 245.4 | |||||
| International Franchise | 260.7 | 259.6 |
U.S. Stores
U.S. stores Segment Income increased $44.4 million, or 8.5%, in 2024, primarily due to higher U.S. franchise royalties and fees revenues, as well as the $4.4 million increase in U.S. Company-owned store gross margin, each as discussed above. U.S. franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on U.S. stores Segment Income. U.S. franchise advertising costs are accrued and expensed when the related U.S. franchise advertising revenues are recognized and had no impact on U.S. stores Segment Income.
Supply Chain
Supply chain Segment Income increased $35.2 million, or 14.3%, in 2024, primarily due to the $38.2 million increase in supply chain gross margin, discussed above.
International Franchise
International franchise Segment Income increased $1.1 million, or 0.4%, in 2024, primarily due to higher international franchise royalties and fees revenues, as discussed above. International franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on international franchise Segment Income. The increase in international franchise Segment Income was partially offset by travel expenses for our Worldwide Rally that takes place every two years.
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New Accounting Pronouncements
The impact of new accounting pronouncements adopted and the estimated impact of new accounting pronouncements that we will adopt in future years is included in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Historically, our receivable collection periods and inventory turn rates are faster than the normal payment terms on our current liabilities resulting in efficient deployment of working capital. We generally collect our receivables within three weeks from the date of the related sale and we generally experience multiple inventory turns per month. In addition, our sales are not typically seasonal, which further limits variations in our working capital requirements. As of December 29, 2024, we had negative working capital totaling $904.4 million, which primarily included $1.14 billion of current portion of long-term debt associated with our 2018 7.5-Year Notes and 2015 Ten-Year Notes (each as defined below) for each of which the anticipated repayment date is October 2025. Our working capital amount excludes restricted cash and cash equivalents of $195.4 million, advertising fund assets, restricted of $103.4 million and advertising fund liabilities of $101.6 million. Working capital includes total unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $186.1 million.
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash flows from operations and availability of borrowings under our variable funding notes. During 2024, we experienced global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, in both our U.S. and international businesses. These factors contributed to our continued ability to generate positive operating cash flows. In addition to our cash flows from operations, we have two variable funding note facilities. The facilities include our 2022 Variable Funding Notes (defined below), which allows for advances of up to $120.0 million, as well as our 2021 Variable Funding Notes (defined below), which allows for advances of up to $200.0 million and certain other credit instruments, including letters of credit (the 2021 Variable Funding Notes and the 2022 Variable Funding Notes, the “2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes”). The letters of credit primarily relate to our casualty insurance programs and certain supply chain center leases. As of December 29, 2024, we had no outstanding borrowings and $120.0 million of available borrowing capacity under our 2022 Variable Funding Notes. As of December 29, 2024, we had no outstanding borrowings and $143.6 million of available borrowing capacity under our 2021 Variable Funding Notes, net of letters of credit issued of $56.4 million.
We expect to continue to use our unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, cash flows from operations, any excess cash from our recapitalization transactions and available borrowings under our 2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes to, among other things, fund working capital requirements, invest in our business and other strategic opportunities, repay outstanding borrowings under our securitized debt, pay dividends and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock.
Our ability to continue to fund these items and continue to service our debt could be adversely affected by the occurrence of any of the events described in Item 1A. Risk Factors. There can be no assurance that our business will generate sufficient cash flows from operations or that future borrowings will be available under our 2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes or otherwise to enable us to service our indebtedness, or to make anticipated capital expenditures. Our future operating performance and our ability to service, extend or refinance our Notes (defined below) and to service, extend or refinance our 2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes will be subject to future economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our control.
Restricted Cash
As of December 29, 2024, we had $144.0 million of restricted cash and cash equivalents held for future principal and interest payments and other working capital requirements of our asset-backed securitization structure, $51.2 million of restricted cash equivalents held in a three-month interest reserve as required by the related debt agreements and $0.2 million of other restricted cash for a total of $195.4 million of restricted cash and cash equivalents. As of December 29, 2024, we also held $80.9 million of advertising fund restricted cash and cash equivalents which can only be used for activities that promote the Domino’s brand.
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Long-Term Debt
2022 Variable Funding Notes
On September 16, 2022, certain of our subsidiaries issued a variable funding note facility which allows for advances of up to $120.0 million of Series 2022-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 Notes (the “2022 Variable Funding Notes”). Additional information related to our 2022 Variable Funding Notes is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2021 Variable Funding Notes
In connection with the 2021 Recapitalization, certain of our subsidiaries issued a variable funding note facility which allows for advances of up to $200.0 million of Series 2021-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 Notes and certain other credit instruments, including letters of credit (the “2021 Variable Funding Notes”). Additional information related to our 2021 Variable Funding Notes is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2021 Recapitalization
On April 16, 2021, we completed the 2021 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consist of $850.0 million Series 2021-1 2.662% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of 7.5 years (the “2021 7.5-Year Notes”) and $1.0 billion Series 2021-1 3.151% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2021 Ten-Year Notes”, and, collectively with the 2021 7.5-Year Notes, the “2021 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2021 Notes were $1.85 billion. Additional information related to the 2021 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2019 Recapitalization
On November 19, 2019, we completed the 2019 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued $675.0 million Series 2019-1 3.668% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2 with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2019 Notes”) pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2019 Notes were $675.0 million. Additional information related to the 2019 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2018 Recapitalization
On April 24, 2018, we completed the 2018 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consist of $425.0 million Series 2018-1 4.116% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of 7.5 years (the “2018 7.5-Year Notes”), and $400.0 million Series 2018-1 4.328% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of 9.25 years (the “2018 9.25-Year Notes” and, collectively with the 2018 7.5-Year Notes, the “2018 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2018 Notes were $825.0 million. Additional information related to the 2018 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2017 Recapitalization
On July 24, 2017, we completed the 2017 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consisted of $300.0 million Series 2017-1 Floating Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of five years (the “2017 Floating Rate Notes”), $600.0 million Series 2017-1 3.082% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of five years (the “2017 Five-Year Notes”), and $1.0 billion Series 2017-1 4.118% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-III with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2017 Ten-Year Notes” and, collectively with the 2017 Floating Rate Notes and the 2017 Five-Year Notes, the “2017 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2017 Notes were $1.9 billion. The 2017 Floating Rate Notes and the 2017 Five-Year Notes were repaid in connection with the 2021 Recapitalization. Additional information related to the 2017 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
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2015 Recapitalization
On October 21, 2015, we completed the 2015 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consisted of $500.0 million of Series 2015-1 3.484% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I (the “2015 Five-Year Notes”), $800.0 million Series 2015-1 4.474% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II (the “2015 Ten-Year Notes” and collectively with the 2015 Five-Year Notes, the “2015 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2015 Notes were $1.3 billion. The 2015 Five-Year Notes were repaid in connection with the 2018 Recapitalization. Additional information related to the 2015 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2021, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2015 Notes
The 2021 Notes, 2019 Notes, 2018 Notes, 2017 Notes and the 2015 Notes are collectively referred to as the “Notes.”
The Notes have original scheduled principal payments of $1.18 billion in 2025, $39.3 million in 2026, $1.31 billion in 2027, $817.9 million in 2028, $631.0 million in 2029, $10.0 million in 2030 and $912.5 million in 2031. However, in accordance with our debt agreements, the payment of principal on the outstanding senior notes may be suspended if our Holdco Leverage Ratio is less than or equal to 5.0x total debt to Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, each as defined in the indenture governing our securitized debt, and no catch-up provisions are applicable.
As of the end of each of the fiscal quarters in 2024, we had a Holdco Leverage Ratio of less than 5.0x, and accordingly, did not make the previously scheduled debt amortization payments for our outstanding notes beginning in the second quarter of 2024. Accordingly, the outstanding principal amounts of our 2021 Notes, 2019 Notes, 2018 9.25-Year Notes and 2017 Ten-Year Notes have been classified as long-term debt in the consolidated balance sheet as of December 29, 2024.
The anticipated repayment date for each of the 2018 7.5-Year Notes and the 2015 Ten-Year Notes is October 2025 and accordingly, the outstanding principal amounts for these notes have been classified as current portion of long-term debt in the consolidated balance sheet as of December 29, 2024. We expect to refinance the 2018 7.5-Year Notes and the 2015 Ten-Year Notes prior to the anticipated repayment date. If we do not refinance the 2018 7.5-Year Notes and the 2015 Ten-Year Notes prior to the anticipated repayment date, additional interest of at least 5% per annum will accrue and our cash flows other than technology fees and a weekly management fee to cover certain general and administrative expenses would be directed to the repayment of the securitized debt.
The Notes are subject to certain financial and non-financial covenants, including a debt service coverage ratio calculation. The covenant requires a minimum coverage ratio of 1.75x total debt service to securitized net cash flow, as defined in the indenture governing our securitized debt. In the event that certain covenants are not met, the Notes may become due and payable on an accelerated schedule.
Leases
We lease certain retail store and supply chain center locations, supply chain vehicles, various equipment and our World Resource Center under leases with expiration dates through 2045. Refer to Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our leases, including future minimum rental commitments.
Capital Expenditures
In the past three years, we have spent approximately $305.5 million on capital expenditures. In 2024, we spent $112.9 million on capital expenditures which primarily related to investments in our technology initiatives, supply chain centers and corporate store operations. We did not have any material commitments for capital expenditures as of December 29, 2024.
Investments
We hold a non-controlling interest in DPC Dash, our master franchisee in China that owns and operates Domino’s Pizza stores in that market.
As of December 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the fair value of our investment in DPC Dash was $82.7 million and $143.6 million, respectively. The fair value of our investment in DPC Dash was based on the active exchange quoted price for the equity security of HK$79.25 per share as of December 29, 2024 and HK$61.95 per share as of December 31, 2023. We owned 8,101,019 and 18,101,019 ordinary shares as of December 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. We sold 10,000,000 ordinary shares of our investment in DPC Dash in the fourth quarter of 2024 for net proceeds of $82.9 million. We recorded a total net adjustment to the net carrying amount of our investment in DPC Dash of $22.1 million and $17.7 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively, with the net realized and unrealized gains recorded in other income in our consolidated statements of income.
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Share Repurchase Programs
Our share repurchase programs have historically been funded by excess operating cash flows, excess proceeds from our recapitalization transactions and borrowings under our variable funding notes. We used cash of $327.0 million in 2024, $269.0 million in 2023 and $293.7 million in 2022 for share repurchases.
On February 21, 2024, our Board of Directors authorized an additional share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of our common stock, in addition to the $141.3 million that was previously remaining under our previous July 20, 2021 authorization for a total authorization of $1.14 billion for future share repurchases as of that date. As of December 29, 2024, we had $814.3 million remaining under this authorization for repurchases of shares of our common stock.
Dividends
We declared dividends of $210.7 million (or $6.04 per share) in 2024, $170.4 million (or $4.84 per share) in 2023 and $157.5 million (or $4.40 per share) in 2022. We paid dividends of $209.9 million, $169.8 million and $157.5 million in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Subsequent to the end of fiscal 2024, on February 19, 2025, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $1.74 per common share payable on March 28, 2025 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 14, 2025.
Sources and Uses of Cash
The following table illustrates the main components of our cash flows:
| Fiscal Year Ended | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In millions) | December 29, 2024 | December 31, 2023 | ||||||
| Cash flows provided by (used in): | ||||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 624.9 | $ | 590.9 | ||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (31.2 | ) | (106.9 | ) | ||||
| Net cash used in financing activities | (532.2 | ) | (476.4 | ) | ||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash | (2.2 | ) | 0.3 | |||||
| Change in cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and cash equivalents | $ | 59.3 | $ | 7.9 |
Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities increased $34.0 million in 2024 primarily as a result of higher net income, excluding non-cash operating activities and a positive change in advertising fund assets and liabilities, restricted. Net income increased $65.1 million and non-cash adjustments increased $17.5 million, resulting in an overall increase to cash provided by operating activities in 2024 as compared to 2023 of $82.6 million. Additionally, a $45.8 million positive impact of changes in advertising fund assets and liabilities, restricted, in 2024 as compared to 2023 was a result of receipts for advertising contributions outpacing payments for advertising activities. These increases were partially offset by the negative impact of changes in operating assets and liabilities totaling $94.4 million, primarily related to the timing of payments on accrued liabilities, income taxes and accounts payable in 2024 as compared to 2023.
Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities was $31.2 million in 2024, which consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $112.9 million (driven primarily by investments in technological initiatives, supply chain centers and corporate store operations). These investing cash outflows were partially offset by net proceeds from the sale of 10,000,000 ordinary shares of our investment in DPC Dash for $82.9 million.
Cash used in investing activities was $106.9 million in 2023, which consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $105.4 million (driven primarily by investments in technological initiatives, supply chain centers and corporate store operations).
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Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities was $532.2 million in 2024. We repurchased and retired $327.0 million in shares of our common stock under our Board of Directors-approved share repurchase program, as well as made $2.6 million in excise tax payments related to our share repurchase programs. We also made dividend payments to our shareholders of $209.9 million. We made repayments of long-term debt and principal amounts related to our financing obligations and finance leases of $17.6 million and had tax payments for the vesting of restricted stock of $11.1 million. These uses of cash were partially offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $36.0 million.
Cash used in financing activities was $476.4 million in 2023. We repurchased and retired $269.0 million in shares of our common stock under our Board of Directors-approved share repurchase program, and we also made dividend payments to our shareholders of $169.8 million. We also made repayments of long-term debt and principal amounts related to our financing obligations and finance leases of $55.7 million and had tax payments for the vesting of restricted stock of $5.4 million. These uses of cash were partially offset by proceeds from our failed sale leaseback transaction of $14.9 million and from the exercise of stock options of $8.7 million.
Impact of Inflation
Given the inflation rates in recent years, there have been and may continue to be increases in food costs and labor costs which have and could further impact our profitability and that of our franchisees and which could impact the opening of new U.S. and international franchised stores and adversely affect our operating results. Factors such as inflation, increased food costs, increased labor and employee health and benefit costs, increased rent costs and increased energy costs may adversely affect our operating costs and profitability and those of our franchisees and could result in menu price increases. The impact of inflation is described with respect to our food basket pricing to stores and our labor cost, in the discussion of supply chain revenues and U.S. Company-owned store and supply chain gross margins, above. Severe increases in inflation could affect the global and U.S. economies and could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further discussion on the impact of commodities and other cost pressures is included above, as well as in Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
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SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
This Form 10-K includes various forward-looking statements about the Company within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”) that are based on current management expectations that involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. The following cautionary statements are being made pursuant to the provisions of the Act and with the intention of obtaining the benefits of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Act.
These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “should,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “approximately,” “potential,” “outlook” and similar terms and phrases that concern our strategy, plans or intentions, including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements address various matters including information concerning future results of operations and business strategy, the expected demand for future pizza delivery and carryout, our expectation that we will meet the terms of our agreement with our third-party supplier of pizza cheese, our belief that alternative third-party suppliers are available for our key ingredients in the event we are required to replace any of our supply partners, our intention to continue to enhance and grow online ordering, digital marketing and technological capabilities, our expectation that there will be no material environmental compliance-related capital expenditures, our plans to expand U.S. and international operations in many of the markets where we currently operate and in selected new markets, our expectation that the obligation for advertising fees payable to DNAF will remain in place for the foreseeable future, and the availability of our borrowings under the 2021 Variable Funding Notes and 2022 Variable Funding Notes for, among other things, funding working capital requirements, paying capital expenditures and funding other general corporate purposes, including payment of dividends.
Forward-looking statements relating to our anticipated profitability, estimates in same store sales growth, store growth and the growth of our U.S. and international business in general, ability to service our indebtedness, our future cash flows, our operating performance, trends in our business and other descriptions of future events reflect management’s expectations based upon currently available information and data. While we believe these expectations and projections are based on reasonable assumptions, such forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, including the risk factors listed under Item 1A. Risk Factors, as well as other cautionary language in this Form 10-K.
Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including but not limited to, the following:
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our substantial increased indebtedness as a result of the 2021 Recapitalization, 2019 Recapitalization, 2018 Recapitalization, 2017 Recapitalization and 2015 Recapitalization and our ability to incur additional indebtedness or refinance or renegotiate key terms of that indebtedness in the future;
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the impact a downgrade in our credit rating may have on our business, financial condition and results of operations;
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our future financial performance and our ability to pay principal and interest on our indebtedness;
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the strength of our brand, including our ability to compete in the U.S. and internationally in our intensely competitive industry, including the food service and food delivery markets;
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our ability to successfully implement our growth strategy, including through our participation in the third-party order aggregation marketplace;
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labor shortages or changes in operating expenses resulting from increases in prices of food (particularly cheese), fuel and other commodity costs, labor, utilities, insurance, employee benefits and other operating costs or negative economic conditions;
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the effectiveness of our advertising, operations and promotional initiatives;
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shortages, interruptions or disruptions in the supply or delivery of fresh food products and store equipment;
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the additional risks our international operations subject us to, which may differ in each country in which we and our franchisees do business;
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the dependence of our earnings and business growth strategy on the success of our franchisees;
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our ability and that of our franchisees to successfully operate in the current and future credit environment;
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the impact of social media or a boycott on our business, brand and reputation;
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the impact of new or improved technologies and alternative methods of delivery on consumer behavior;
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•
new product, digital ordering and concept developments by us, and other food-industry competitors;
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our ability to maintain good relationships with and attract new franchisees and franchisees’ ability to successfully manage their operations without negatively impacting our royalty payments and fees or our brand’s reputation;
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our ability to successfully implement cost-saving strategies;
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changes in the level of consumer spending given general economic conditions, including interest rates, energy prices and consumer confidence or negative economic conditions in general;
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our ability and that of our franchisees to open new restaurants and keep existing restaurants in operation and maintain demand for new stores;
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the impact that widespread illness, health epidemics or general health concerns, severe weather conditions and natural disasters may have on our business and the economies of the countries where we operate;
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changes in foreign currency exchange rates;
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changes in income tax rates;
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our ability to retain or replace our executive officers and other key members of management and our ability to adequately staff our stores and supply chain centers with qualified personnel;
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our ability to find and/or retain suitable real estate for our stores and supply chain centers;
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changes in government legislation or regulation, including changes in laws and regulations regarding information privacy, payment methods, advertising and consumer protection and social media;
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adverse legal judgments or settlements;
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food-borne illness or contamination of products or food tampering or other events that may impact our reputation;
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data breaches, power loss, technological failures, user error or other cyber risks threatening us or our franchisees;
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the impact that environmental, social and governance matters may have on our business and reputation;
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the effect of war, terrorism, catastrophic events, geopolitical or reputational considerations or climate change;
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our ability to pay dividends and repurchase shares;
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changes in consumer taste, spending and traffic patterns and demographic trends;
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changes in accounting policies; and
•
adequacy of our insurance coverage.
In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this Form 10-K might not occur. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Form 10-K and should be evaluated with an understanding of their inherent uncertainty. Except as required under federal securities laws and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, we will not undertake, and specifically disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances arising after the date of this Form 10-K, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-K or that may be made elsewhere from time to time by, or on behalf of, us. All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements.
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FY 2023 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000950170-24-019725.
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Overview
Our fiscal year typically includes 52 weeks, comprised of three twelve-week quarters and one sixteen-week quarter.
In this section, we discuss the results of our operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the fiscal year ended January 1, 2023. For a discussion of the fiscal year ended January 1, 2023 compared to the fiscal year ended January 2, 2022, please refer to Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 1, 2023.
Description of the Business
Domino’s is the largest pizza company in the world with more than 20,500 locations in over 90 markets around the world as of December 31, 2023, and operates two distinct service models within its stores, with a significant business in both delivery and carryout. We are a highly recognized global brand, and we focus on value while serving neighborhoods locally through our large worldwide network of franchise owners and U.S. Company-owned stores through both the delivery and carryout service models. We have been selling quality, affordable food to our customers since 1960. We became “Domino’s Pizza” in 1965 and opened our first franchised store in 1967. Over more than 60 years, we have built Domino’s into one of the most widely-recognized consumer brands in the world. We believe our commitment to value, convenience, quality and new products continues to keep consumers engaged with the brand.
We are primarily a franchisor, with approximately 99% of Domino’s global stores owned and operated by our independent franchisees as of December 31, 2023. Franchising enables an individual to be a business owner and maintain control over all employment-related matters and pricing decisions, while also benefiting from the strength of the Domino’s global brand and operating system with limited capital investment by us.
Domino’s business model is straightforward: Domino’s stores handcraft and serve quality food at a competitive price, with easy ordering access and efficient service, enhanced by our technological innovations. Our hand-tossed dough is made fresh and distributed to stores around the world by us and our franchisees.
Domino’s generates revenues and earnings by charging royalties and fees to our franchisees. Royalties are ongoing percent-of-sales fees for use of the Domino’s® brand marks. We also generate revenues and earnings by selling food, equipment and supplies to franchisees through our supply chain operations primarily in the U.S. and Canada and by operating a number of Company-owned stores in the United States. Franchisees profit by selling pizza and other complementary items to their local customers. In our international markets, we generally grant geographical rights to the Domino’s Pizza® brand to master franchisees. These master franchisees are charged with developing their geographical area, and they may profit by sub-franchising and selling food and equipment to those sub-franchisees, as well as by running pizza stores. We believe that everyone in the system can benefit from the franchise model, including the end consumer, who can purchase Domino’s menu items for themselves and their family conveniently and economically.
Domino’s business model can yield strong returns for our franchise owners and our Company-owned stores. It can also yield significant cash flows to us, through a consistent franchise royalty payment and supply chain revenue stream, with moderate capital expenditures. We have historically returned cash to shareholders through dividend payments and share repurchases. At Domino’s, we believe we have a proven business model for success that has historically driven strong returns for our shareholders.
Domino’s financial results are driven largely by retail sales at our franchised and Company-owned stores. Changes in retail sales are primarily driven by same store sales growth and net store growth. We monitor both of these metrics very closely, as they directly impact our revenues and profits, and we strive to consistently increase both metrics. Retail sales drive royalty payments from franchisees, as well as Company-owned store and supply chain revenues.
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Critical accounting estimates
The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires our management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, our management evaluates its estimates, including those related to long-lived assets, casualty insurance reserves and income taxes. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from those estimates, and changes in estimates could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition for any particular period.
We believe that our most critical accounting estimates are:
Long-lived assets
We record long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and capitalized software, at cost. For acquisitions of franchise operations, we estimate the fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired based on physical inspection of assets, historical experience and other information available to us regarding the acquisition. We depreciate and amortize long-lived assets using useful lives determined by us based on historical experience and other information available to us. We evaluate the potential impairment of long-lived assets at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Our periodic evaluation is based on various analyses, including, on an annual basis, the projection of undiscounted cash flows. If we determine that the carrying amount of an asset (or asset group) may not be recoverable, we compare the net carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted net cash flows to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of that asset group. For Company-owned stores, we perform related impairment tests on an operating market basis, which we have determined to be the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of other cash flows. If the carrying amount of a long-lived asset exceeds the amount of the expected future undiscounted cash flows of that asset, we estimate the fair value of the asset. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the estimated fair value of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized, and the asset is written down to its estimated fair value.
We have not made any significant changes in the methodology used to project the future market cash flows of Company-owned stores during the years presented. Same store sales fluctuations and the rates at which operating costs will fluctuate in the future are key factors in determining projected cash flows used to evaluate recoverability of the related assets. If our same store sales significantly decline or if operating costs increase and we are unable to recover these costs, the carrying value of our Company-owned stores, by market, may not be recoverable and we may be required to recognize an impairment charge. There were no triggering events in 2023, 2022 or 2021, and accordingly, we did not record any impairment losses on long-lived assets in 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Casualty insurance reserves
For certain periods prior to December 1998 and for periods after December 2001, we maintain insurance coverage for workers’ compensation, general liability and owned and non-owned automobile liabilities. We are generally responsible for up to $2.0 million per occurrence under these retention programs for workers’ compensation and general liability, depending on policy year and line of coverage. We are generally responsible for up to between $500,000 and $5.5 million per occurrence under these retention programs for owned and non-owned automobile liabilities, depending on policy year and line of coverage. The related insurance reserves are based on undiscounted independent actuarial estimates, which are based on historical information along with assumptions about future events. There is inherent uncertainty in the ultimate cost for known claims under our insurance coverages, and for incidents that have occurred that will be subject to a claim, but have yet to be reported to us. Analyses of historical trends and actuarial valuation methods are utilized to estimate the ultimate claim costs for claims incurred as of the balance sheet date and for claims incurred but not yet reported. When estimating these liabilities, several factors are considered, including the severity, duration and frequency of claims, legal cost associated with claims, healthcare trends and projected inflation.
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Our methodology for determining our exposure has remained consistent throughout the years presented. Management believes that the various assumptions developed, and actuarial methods used to determine our casualty insurance reserves are reasonable and provide meaningful data that management uses to make its best estimate of our exposure to these risks. Changes in assumptions for such factors as medical costs and legal actions, as well as changes in actual experience, could cause our estimates to change in the near term which could result in an increase or decrease in the related expense in future periods. A 10% change in our casualty insurance liability at December 31, 2023 would have affected our income before provision for income taxes by approximately $5.6 million in 2023. We had accruals for casualty insurance reserves of $56.3 million and $57.6 million at December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively.
Income taxes
The U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate was 21% in each of 2023, 2022 and 2021. Our Federal income tax provision calculated based on the Federal statutory rate was $137.0 million, $120.3 million and $131.4 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. We measure deferred taxes using current enacted tax rates that will apply in the years in which we expect the temporary differences to be recovered or paid. Judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes, related reserves and deferred taxes. These include establishing a valuation allowance related to the ability to realize certain deferred tax assets, if necessary. On an ongoing basis, management will assess whether it remains more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized. Our accounting for deferred taxes represents our best estimate of future events. Except with respect to certain foreign tax credits and interest deductibility in separately filed states, our deferred tax assets assume that we will generate sufficient taxable income in specific tax jurisdictions, based on our estimates and assumptions. As of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, we had total foreign tax credits of $16.8 million and $13.5 million, respectively, each of which were fully offset with a corresponding valuation allowance. We also had valuation allowances related to interest deductibility in separately filed states of $1.4 million and $1.5 million as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively. We believe our remaining deferred tax assets will be realized. Changes in our current estimates due to unanticipated events could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
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Fiscal 2023 Highlights
•
Global retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact (which includes total retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores worldwide) increased 5.4% as compared to 2022. U.S. retail sales increased 3.1% and international retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact, increased 7.7%, each as compared to 2022.
•
Same store sales increased 1.6% in our U.S. stores and increased 1.7% in our international stores, excluding foreign currency impact.
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Global net stores grew by 711 net stores, including 168 net store openings in the U.S. and 543 net store openings internationally. Excluding the closure of the Russia market as discussed below, global net stores grew by 870.
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Income from operations increased 6.7%.
Excluding the negative impact of foreign currency, Domino’s experienced global retail sales growth during 2023, driven by global net store growth and same store sales growth in both our U.S. and international businesses. These factors also contributed to an increase in income from operations. Overall, we believe our global retail sales growth (excluding foreign currency impact), emphasis on technology, operations and marketing initiatives, have combined to strengthen our brand. These financial and statistical measures are described in additional detail below.
Statistical Measures
The tables below outline certain statistical measures we utilize to analyze our performance. This historical data is not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for any future period.
Global Retail Sales
Global retail sales is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Global retail sales refers to total worldwide retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores. We believe global retail sales information is useful in analyzing revenues because franchisees pay royalties and, in the U.S., advertising fees that are based on a percentage of franchise retail sales. We review comparable industry global retail sales information to assess business trends and to track the growth of the Domino’s Pizza brand and are indicative of the financial health of the franchisee base. In addition, supply chain revenues are directly impacted by changes in franchise retail sales in the U.S. and Canada. As a result, sales by Domino’s franchisees have a direct effect on the Company’s profitability. Retail sales for franchised stores are reported to us by our franchisees and are not included in our revenues. The amounts below are presented in millions of U.S. dollars.
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. stores | $ | 9,026.1 | $ | 8,751.7 | $ | 8,641.4 | |||||
| International stores | 9,249.7 | 8,788.2 | 9,137.5 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 18,275.8 | $ | 17,539.9 | $ | 17,779.0 |
Global Retail Sales Growth (excluding foreign currency impact)
Global retail sales growth (excluding foreign currency impact) is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, is calculated as the change of international local currency global retail sales against the comparable period of the prior year. Global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, in 2021 reflects the impact of the 53rd week in 2020. Changes in global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact are primarily driven by same store sales growth and net store growth.
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. stores | + 3.1% | + 1.3% | + 4.3% | ||||||||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) (1) | + 7.7% | + 6.3% | + 13.9% | ||||||||
| Total (excluding foreign currency impact) (2) | + 5.4% | + 3.9% | + 8.9% |
| (1) | Fiscal 2023 figures exclude the impact of the Russia market. Including the impact of the Russia market, international stores retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, was 7.3% for fiscal 2023. | |
|---|---|---|
| (2) | Fiscal 2023 figures exclude the impact of the Russia market. Including the impact of the Russia market, total global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, was 5.2% for fiscal 2023. |
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Same Store Sales Growth
Same store sales growth is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Same store sales growth is calculated for a given period by including only retail sales from stores that also had sales in the comparable weeks of both periods. International same store sales growth is calculated similarly to U.S. same store sales growth. Changes in international same store sales are reported on a constant dollar basis, which reflects changes in international local currency sales. Same store sales growth for transferred stores is reflected in their current classification.
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | + 5.4% | (2.6)% | (3.6)% | |||
| U.S. franchise stores | + 1.4% | (0.7)% | + 3.9% | |||
| U.S. stores | + 1.6% | (0.8)% | + 3.5% | |||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) | + 1.7% | + 0.1% | + 8.0% |
U.S. same store sales increased 1.6% during 2023, rolling over a decrease in U.S. same store sales of 0.8% in 2022. The increase in U.S. same store sales in 2023 was attributable to a higher average ticket per transaction resulting from increases in menu and national offer pricing. International same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) increased 1.7% during 2023, rolling over an increase in international same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) of 0.1% in 2022. The increase in international same store sales in 2023 was attributable to a higher average ticket per transaction across our international markets.
Net Store Growth
Net store growth is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Net store growth is calculated by netting gross store openings with gross store closures during the period. Transfers between Company-owned stores and franchised stores are excluded from the calculation of net store growth. Net store growth during fiscal 2023 reflects the closure of the remaining 159 net stores in the Russia market.
| U.S. Company- owned Stores | U.S. Franchise Stores | Total U.S. Stores | International Stores | Total | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Store count at January 3, 2021 | 363 | 5,992 | 6,355 | 11,289 | 17,644 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 13 | 201 | 214 | 1,094 | 1,308 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (8 | ) | (9 | ) | (95 | ) | (104 | ) | ||||||||||
| Store count at January 2, 2022 | 375 | 6,185 | 6,560 | 12,288 | 18,848 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 5 | 136 | 141 | 1,135 | 1,276 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (3 | ) | (12 | ) | (15 | ) | (229 | ) | (244 | ) | ||||||||||
| Transfers | (91 | ) | 91 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Store count at January 1, 2023 | 286 | 6,400 | 6,686 | 13,194 | 19,880 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 4 | 174 | 178 | 892 | 1,070 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (9 | ) | (10 | ) | (349 | ) | (359 | ) | ||||||||||
| Transfers | (1 | ) | 1 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Store count at December 31, 2023 | 288 | 6,566 | 6,854 | 13,737 | 20,591 |
Russia Market
On August 21, 2023, our master franchisee that owned and operated Domino’s Pizza® stores in Russia announced its intent to file for bankruptcy with respect to the stores in that market. Therefore, as of August 21, 2023, we have considered the stores in the Russia market to be closed and they are excluded from our ending store count as of the end of the third quarter of 2023. We have presented our statistical measure of global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, for fiscal 2023 excluding the impact of the retail sales from the Russia market. The 2023 global retail sales growth measures excluding the Russia market are calculated as the growth in retail sales excluding the retail sales from the Russia market from both 2023 retail sales and the 2022 retail sales base. We believe the impact of the Russia market on our statistical measure of global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, for the fiscal years 2022 and 2021 were immaterial and prior amounts have not been adjusted to conform to the current year presentation. We believe the impact of the Russia market on our statistical measure of same store sales growth for the periods presented was immaterial, and we also believe the impact of the Russia market on our consolidated statements of income related to international franchise royalties and fee revenues and general and administrative expenses for the periods presented was immaterial. We have not received any royalties and fees from the operations of the Russia market subsequent to the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
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Income Statement Data
(tabular amounts in millions, except percentages)
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 376.2 | $ | 445.8 | $ | 479.0 | ||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 604.9 | 556.3 | 539.9 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,715.0 | 2,754.7 | 2,561.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| International franchise royalties and fees | 310.1 | 295.0 | 298.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 473.2 | 485.3 | 479.5 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total revenues | 4,479.4 | 100.0 | % | 4,537.2 | 100.0 | % | 4,357.4 | 100.0 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Cost of sales: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. Company-owned stores | 314.7 | 378.0 | 374.1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,437.3 | 2,510.5 | 2,295.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total cost of sales | 2,751.9 | 61.4 | % | 2,888.6 | 63.7 | % | 2,669.1 | 61.3 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Gross margin | 1,727.4 | 38.6 | % | 1,648.6 | 36.3 | % | 1,688.2 | 38.7 | % | |||||||||||||||
| General and administrative | 434.6 | 9.7 | % | 416.5 | 9.2 | % | 428.3 | 9.8 | % | |||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 473.2 | 10.6 | % | 485.3 | 10.7 | % | 479.5 | 11.0 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Refranchising loss (gain) | 0.1 | — | (21.2 | ) | (0.5 | )% | — | — | ||||||||||||||||
| Income from operations | 819.5 | 18.3 | % | 767.9 | 16.9 | % | 780.4 | 17.9 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Other income | 17.7 | 0.4 | % | — | 0.0 | % | 36.8 | 0.8 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Interest expense, net | (184.8 | ) | (4.1 | )% | (195.1 | ) | (4.3 | )% | (191.5 | ) | (4.3 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Income before provision for income taxes | 652.4 | 14.6 | % | 572.8 | 12.6 | % | 625.7 | 14.4 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | 133.3 | 3.0 | % | 120.6 | 2.6 | % | 115.2 | 2.7 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 519.1 | 11.6 | % | $ | 452.3 | 10.0 | % | $ | 510.5 | 11.7 | % |
2023 compared to 2022
(tabular amounts in millions, except percentages)
Revenues
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 376.2 | 8.4 | % | $ | 445.8 | 9.8 | % | ||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 604.9 | 13.5 | % | 556.3 | 12.3 | % | ||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,715.0 | 60.6 | % | 2,754.7 | 60.7 | % | ||||||||||
| International franchise royalties and fees | 310.1 | 6.9 | % | 295.0 | 6.5 | % | ||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 473.2 | 10.6 | % | 485.3 | 10.7 | % | ||||||||||
| Total revenues | $ | 4,479.4 | 100.0 | % | $ | 4,537.2 | 100.0 | % |
Revenues primarily consist of retail sales from our Company-owned stores, royalties and fees and advertising contributions from our U.S. franchised stores, royalties and fees from our international franchised stores and sales of food, equipment and supplies from our supply chain centers to substantially all of our U.S. franchised stores and certain international franchised stores. Company-owned store and franchised store revenues may vary from period to period due to changes in store count mix. Supply chain revenues may vary significantly from period to period as a result of fluctuations in food and commodity prices as well as the mix of products we sell.
Consolidated revenues decreased $57.8 million, or 1.3%, in 2023 due primarily to lower U.S. Company-owned store revenues as a result of the refranchising of 114 U.S. Company-owned stores in the fourth quarter of 2022 (“the 2022 Store Sale”) as well as lower supply chain revenues primarily due to a shift in the relative mix of the products we sell. Additionally, U.S. franchise advertising revenues decreased as a result of a temporary reduction of 0.25% to the standard 6.0% advertising contribution which was effectuated on March 27, 2023, as well as an increase in advertising incentives related to certain brand promotions. These decreases were partially offset by higher U.S. franchise royalties and fees revenues primarily due to an increase in fees paid by our franchisees for the use of our technology platforms, an increase in the average number of U.S. franchised stores open during the period resulting from net store growth and the 2022 Store Sale as well as higher same store sales. International franchise royalties and fees revenues also increased as a result of net store growth and higher same store sales. These changes in revenues are described in more detail below.
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U.S. Stores
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 376.2 | 25.9 | % | $ | 445.8 | 30.0 | % | ||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 604.9 | 41.6 | % | 556.3 | 37.4 | % | ||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 473.2 | 32.5 | % | 485.3 | 32.6 | % | ||||||||||
| Total U.S. stores revenues | $ | 1,454.3 | 100.0 | % | $ | 1,487.4 | 100.0 | % |
U.S. Company-owned Stores
Revenues from U.S. Company-owned store operations decreased $69.6 million, or 15.6%, in 2023 primarily due to a decrease in the average number of U.S. Company-owned stores open during the period resulting from the 2022 Store Sale, but this decrease was partially offset by higher same store sales. U.S. Company-owned same store sales increased 5.4% in 2023 and declined 2.6% in 2022.
U.S. Franchise Royalties and Fees
Revenues from U.S. franchise royalties and fees increased $48.6 million, or 8.7%, in 2023 primarily due to an increase in fees paid by our franchisees for the use of our technology platforms, an increase in the average number of U.S. franchised stores open during the period resulting from net store growth and the 2022 Store Sale as well as higher same store sales. U.S. franchise same store sales increased 1.4% in 2023 and declined 0.7% in 2022.
U.S. Franchise Advertising
Revenues from U.S. franchise advertising decreased $12.1 million, or 2.5%, in 2023 primarily due to a temporary reduction of 0.25% to the standard 6.0% advertising contribution effectuated on March 27, 2023 as well as an increase in advertising incentives related to certain brand promotions. The Company recorded approximately $14.5 million more in advertising incentives related to certain brand promotions in 2023 as compared to 2022. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in the average number of U.S. franchised stores open during the period as a result of net store growth and the 2022 Store Sale as well as higher same store sales.
Supply Chain
Supply chain revenues decreased $39.7 million, or 1.4%, in 2023 due primarily to a shift in the relative mix of the products we sell. Our market basket pricing to stores decreased 0.5% during 2023 which did not have a significant impact on supply chain revenues. The market basket pricing change, a statistical measure utilized by management, is calculated as the percentage change of the market basket purchased by an average U.S. store (based on average weekly unit sales) from our U.S. supply chain centers against the comparable period of the prior year. We believe this measure is important to understanding Company performance because as our market basket prices fluctuate, our revenues, cost of sales and gross margin percentages in our supply chain segment also fluctuate.
International Franchise Royalties and Fee Revenues
Revenues from international franchise royalties and fees increased $15.1 million, or 5.1%, in 2023 due primarily to an increase in the average number of international franchised stores open during the period, resulting from net store growth and same store sales growth (excluding foreign currency impact). The negative impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates of approximately $5.8 million in 2023 partially offset the increases in international franchise royalties and fees. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on international franchise royalty revenues, a statistical measure utilized by management, is calculated as the difference in international franchise royalty revenues resulting from translating current year local currency results to U.S. dollars at current year exchange rates as compared to prior year exchange rates. We believe this measure is important to understanding Company performance given the significant variability in international franchise royalty revenues that can be driven by changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Excluding the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, international same store sales increased 1.7% in 2023 and increased 0.1% in 2022.
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Cost of Sales / Gross Margin
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total revenues | $ | 4,479.4 | 100.0 | % | $ | 4,537.2 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Total cost of sales | 2,751.9 | 61.4 | % | 2,888.6 | 63.7 | % | ||||||||||
| Gross margin | $ | 1,727.4 | 38.6 | % | $ | 1,648.6 | 36.3 | % |
Consolidated cost of sales consists of U.S. Company-owned store and supply chain costs incurred to generate related revenues. Components of consolidated cost of sales primarily include food, labor, delivery and occupancy costs. Consolidated gross margin (which we define as revenues less cost of sales) increased $78.8 million, or 4.8%, in 2023 due primarily to higher global franchise royalty and fee revenues, as well as improved procurement productivity within supply chain. Franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on gross margin. Additionally, as our market basket prices fluctuate, our revenues and gross margin percentages in our supply chain segment also fluctuate; however, actual product-level dollar margins remain unchanged.
As a percentage of revenues, the consolidated gross margin increased 2.3 percentage points to 38.6% in 2023 from 36.3% in 2022. Company-owned store gross margin increased 1.2 percentage points in 2023 and supply chain gross margin increased 1.3 percentage points in 2023. These changes in gross margin are described in more detail below.
U.S. Company-Owned Stores Gross Margin
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 376.2 | 100.0 | % | $ | 445.8 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of sales | 314.7 | 83.6 | % | 378.0 | 84.8 | % | ||||||||||
| Store gross margin | $ | 61.5 | 16.4 | % | $ | 67.8 | 15.2 | % |
U.S. Company-owned store gross margin (which does not include certain store-level costs such as royalties and advertising) decreased $6.3 million, or 9.3%, in 2023 due primarily to the 2022 Store Sale. As a percentage of store revenues, the U.S. Company-owned store gross margin increased 1.2 percentage points in 2023. These changes in store gross margin as a percentage of revenues are discussed in additional detail below.
•
Food costs decreased 2.3 percentage points to 29.1% in 2023 driven primarily by the decrease in the market basket pricing to stores as well as improved sales leverage resulting from increases in menu and national offer pricing.
•
Labor costs increased 1.1 percentage points to 31.6% in 2023 due primarily to higher wage rates in our U.S. Company-owned stores in 2023.
Supply Chain Gross Margin
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 2,715.0 | 100.0 | % | $ | 2,754.7 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of sales | 2,437.3 | 89.8 | % | 2,510.5 | 91.1 | % | ||||||||||
| Supply chain gross margin | $ | 277.7 | 10.2 | % | $ | 244.2 | 8.9 | % |
Supply chain gross margin increased $33.5 million, or 13.7%, in 2023. As a percentage of supply chain revenues, the supply chain gross margin increased 1.3 percentage points in 2023, primarily due to lower food cost as a result of procurement productivity. This improvement in supply chain gross margin as a percentage of supply chain revenues was partially offset by higher labor costs as a percentage of supply chain revenues.
General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses increased $18.0 million, or 4.3%, in 2023 primarily due to higher labor costs.
U.S. Franchise Advertising Expenses
U.S. franchise advertising expenses decreased $12.1 million, or 2.5%, in 2023, consistent with the decrease in U.S. franchise advertising revenues as discussed above. U.S. franchise advertising costs are accrued and expensed when the related U.S. franchise advertising revenues are recognized, as our consolidated not-for-profit advertising fund is obligated to expend such revenues on advertising and other activities that promote the Domino’s brand, and these revenues cannot be used for general corporate purposes.
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Refranchising Loss/Gain
During 2023, we refranchised one U.S. Company-owned store for proceeds of less than $0.1 million. The pre-tax refranchising loss associated with the sale of the related assets and liabilities, including goodwill, was approximately $0.1 million and was recorded in refranchising loss in our consolidated statements of income.
During 2022, we completed the 2022 Store Sale in which we refranchised 114 U.S. Company-owned stores in Arizona and Utah for proceeds of $41.1 million. In connection with the 2022 Store Sale, we recorded a $21.2 million pre-tax refranchising gain on the sale of the related assets and liabilities, including a $4.3 million reduction in goodwill.
Other Income
Other income was $17.7 million in 2023, representing the unrealized gains recorded on our investment in DPC Dash based on the active exchange quoted price for the equity security. We did not record any adjustments to the carrying amount in fiscal 2022. Additional information related to our investment in DPC Dash is included in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements.
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net, decreased $10.3 million, or 5.3%, in 2023 driven by higher interest income earned on our cash equivalents and restricted cash equivalents in 2023. Our weighted average borrowing rate was 3.8% in both 2023 and 2022.
Provision for Income Taxes
Provision for income taxes increased $12.8 million, or 10.6%, in 2023 due to an increase in income before the provision for income taxes, partially offset by a lower effective tax rate. The effective tax rate decreased to 20.4% during 2023, as compared to 21.0% in 2022. The lower effective tax rate in 2023 was driven primarily by higher foreign tax credits. This decrease in the effective tax rate was partially offset by the release of certain unrecognized tax benefits related to one of our foreign subsidiaries during 2022 that did not recur in 2023 and a higher proportion of non-deductible expenses associated with covered officer compensation in 2023 as compared to 2022.
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Segment Income
We evaluate the performance of our reportable segments and allocate resources to them based on earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and other, referred to as Segment Income. Segment Income for each of our reportable segments is summarized in the table below. Other Segment Income primarily includes corporate administrative costs that are not allocable to a reportable segment, including labor, computer expenses, professional fees, travel and entertainment, rent, insurance and other corporate administrative costs.
In the first quarter of 2023, we changed our allocation methodology for certain costs which support certain internally developed software used across our franchise system. The change in allocation methodology of certain software development costs resulted in an estimated increase in U.S. stores Segment Income of $65.7 million, an estimated increase in international franchise Segment Income of $8.9 million and an estimated decrease in other Segment Income of $74.6 million in 2023. The change in allocation methodology of certain software development costs had no impact on revenues, supply chain Segment Income or total Segment Income.
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Stores | $ | 521.0 | $ | 438.6 | ||||
| Supply Chain | 245.4 | 208.8 | ||||||
| International Franchise | 259.6 | 236.1 | ||||||
| Other | (86.9 | ) | (26.0 | ) |
U.S. Stores
U.S. stores Segment Income increased $82.4 million, or 18.8%, in 2023, primarily due to the change in allocation methodology for certain software development costs, as well as higher U.S. franchise royalties and fees revenues, each as discussed above. These increases were partially offset by the $6.3 million decrease in U.S. Company-owned store gross margin, as discussed above. U.S. franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on U.S. stores Segment Income. U.S. franchise advertising costs are accrued and expensed when the related U.S. franchise advertising revenues are recognized and had no impact on U.S. stores Segment Income.
Supply Chain
Supply chain Segment Income increased $36.6 million, or 17.5%, in 2023 due primarily to the $33.5 million increase in supply chain gross margin described above.
International Franchise
International franchise Segment Income increased $23.5 million, or 9.9%, in 2023, primarily due to higher international franchise royalties and fees revenues as well as the change in allocation methodology for certain software development costs, each as discussed above. International franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on international franchise Segment Income.
Other
Other Segment Income decreased $60.9 million, or 233.9%, in 2023 due primarily to the change in allocation methodology for certain software development costs as discussed above, as well as higher labor costs.
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New Accounting Pronouncements
The impact of new accounting pronouncements adopted and the estimated impact of new accounting pronouncements that we will adopt in future years is included in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Historically, our receivable collection periods and inventory turn rates are faster than the normal payment terms on our current liabilities resulting in efficient deployment of working capital. We generally collect our receivables within three weeks from the date of the related sale and we generally experience multiple inventory turns per month. In addition, our sales are not typically seasonal, which further limits variations in our working capital requirements. As of December 31, 2023, we had working capital of $67.0 million, excluding restricted cash and cash equivalents of $200.9 million, advertising fund assets, restricted of $106.3 million and advertising fund liabilities of $104.2 million. Working capital includes total unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $114.1 million.
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash flows from operations and availability of borrowings under our variable funding notes. During 2023, we experienced global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, in both our U.S. and international businesses. These factors contributed to our continued ability to generate positive operating cash flows. In addition to our cash flows from operations, we have two variable funding note facilities. The facilities include our 2022 Variable Funding Notes (defined below), which allows for advances of up to $120.0 million, as well as our 2021 Variable Funding Notes (defined below), which allows for advances of up to $200.0 million and certain other credit instruments, including letters of credit (the 2021 Variable Funding Notes and the 2022 Variable Funding Notes, the “2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes”). The letters of credit primarily relate to our casualty insurance programs and certain supply chain center leases. As of December 31, 2023, we had no outstanding borrowings and $120.0 million of available borrowing capacity under our 2022 Variable Funding Notes. As of December 31, 2023, we had no outstanding borrowings and $157.8 million of available borrowing capacity under our 2021 Variable Funding Notes, net of letters of credit issued of $42.2 million.
We expect to continue to use our unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, cash flows from operations, any excess cash from our recapitalization transactions and available borrowings under our 2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes to, among other things, fund working capital requirements, invest in our business and other strategic opportunities, repay outstanding borrowings under our securitized debt, pay dividends and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock.
Our ability to continue to fund these items and continue to service our debt could be adversely affected by the occurrence of any of the events described in Item 1A. Risk Factors. There can be no assurance that our business will generate sufficient cash flows from operations or that future borrowings will be available under our 2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes or otherwise to enable us to service our indebtedness, or to make anticipated capital expenditures. Our future operating performance and our ability to service, extend or refinance our Notes (defined below) and to service, extend or refinance our 2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes will be subject to future economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our control.
Restricted Cash
As of December 31, 2023, we had $149.1 million of restricted cash and cash equivalents held for future principal and interest payments and other working capital requirements of our asset-backed securitization structure, $51.6 million of restricted cash equivalents held in a three-month interest reserve as required by the related debt agreements and $0.2 million of other restricted cash for a total of $200.9 million of restricted cash and cash equivalents. As of December 31, 2023, we also held $88.2 million of advertising fund restricted cash and cash equivalents which can only be used for activities that promote the Domino’s brand.
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Long-Term Debt
2022 Variable Funding Notes
On September 16, 2022, certain of our subsidiaries issued a new variable funding note facility which allows for advances of up to $120.0 million of Series 2022-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 Notes (the “2022 Variable Funding Notes”). Additional information related to our 2022 Variable Funding Notes is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2021 Recapitalization
On April 16, 2021, we completed the 2021 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consist of $850.0 million Series 2021-1 2.662% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of 7.5 years (the “2021 7.5-Year Notes”) and $1.0 billion Series 2021-1 3.151% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2021 Ten-Year Notes”, and, collectively with the 2021 7.5-Year Notes, the “2021 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2021 Notes were $1.85 billion.
Concurrently, certain of our subsidiaries also issued a new variable funding note facility which allows for advances of up to $200.0 million of Series 2021-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 Notes and certain other credit instruments, including letters of credit (the “2021 Variable Funding Notes”).
The proceeds from the 2021 Recapitalization were used to repay the remaining $291.0 million in outstanding principal under our 2017 Floating Rate Notes and $582.0 million in outstanding principal under our 2017 Five-Year Notes, prefund a portion of the interest payable on the 2021 Notes, pay transaction fees and expenses and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock. Additional information related to the 2021 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2019 Recapitalization
On November 19, 2019, we completed the 2019 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued $675.0 million Series 2019-1 3.668% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2 with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2019 Notes”) pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. Additional information related to the 2019 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2018 Recapitalization
On April 24, 2018, we completed the 2018 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consist of $425.0 million Series 2018-1 4.116% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of 7.5 years (the “2018 7.5-Year Notes”), and $400.0 million Series 2018-1 4.328% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of 9.25 years (the “2018 9.25-Year Notes” and, collectively with the 2018 7.5-Year Notes, the “2018 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2018 Notes were $825.0 million. Additional information related to the 2018 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2017 Recapitalization
On July 24, 2017, we completed the 2017 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consisted of $300.0 million Series 2017-1 Floating Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of five years (the “2017 Floating Rate Notes”), $600.0 million Series 2017-1 3.082% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of five years (the “2017 Five-Year Notes”), and $1.0 billion Series 2017-1 4.118% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-III with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2017 Ten-Year Notes” and, collectively with the 2017 Floating Rate Notes and the 2017 Five-Year Notes, the “2017 Notes”). The interest rate on the 2017 Floating Rate Notes was payable at a rate equal to LIBOR plus 125 basis points. Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2017 Notes were $1.9 billion. The 2017 Floating Rate Notes and the 2017 Five-Year Notes were repaid in connection with the 2021 Recapitalization. Additional information related to the 2017 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
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2015 Recapitalization
On October 21, 2015, we completed the 2015 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consisted of $500.0 million of Series 2015-1 3.484% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I (the “2015 Five-Year Notes”), $800.0 million Series 2015-1 4.474% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II (the “2015 Ten-Year Notes” and collectively with the 2015 Five-Year Notes, the “2015 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2015 Notes were $1.3 billion. The 2015 Five-Year Notes were repaid in connection with the 2018 Recapitalization. Additional information related to the 2015 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2021, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2015 Notes
The 2021 Notes, 2019 Notes, 2018 Notes, 2017 Notes and the 2015 Notes are collectively referred to as the “Notes.”
The Notes have original scheduled principal payments of $51.5 million in 2024, $1.17 billion in 2025, $39.3 million in 2026, $1.31 billion in 2027, $811.5 million in 2028, $625.9 million in 2029, $10.0 million in 2030 and $905.0 million in 2031. However, in accordance with our debt agreements, the payment of principal on the outstanding senior notes may be suspended if our leverage ratio is less than or equal to 5.0x total debt, as defined, to adjusted EBITDA, as defined, and no catch-up provisions are applicable.
As of the fourth quarter of 2020, we had a leverage ratio of less than 5.0x, and accordingly, did not make the previously scheduled debt amortization payment beginning in the first quarter of 2021. Subsequent to the closing of the 2021 Recapitalization, the Company had a leverage ratio of greater than 5.0x and, accordingly, the Company resumed making the scheduled amortization payments in the second quarter of 2021.
The Notes are subject to certain financial and non-financial covenants, including a debt service coverage ratio calculation. The covenant requires a minimum coverage ratio of 1.75x total debt service to securitized net cash flow, as defined in the related agreements. In the event that certain covenants are not met, the Notes may become due and payable on an accelerated schedule.
Leases
We lease certain retail store and supply chain center locations, supply chain vehicles, various equipment and our World Resource Center under leases with expiration dates through 2045. Refer to Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our leases, including future minimum rental commitments.
Capital Expenditures
In the past three years, we have spent approximately $286.8 million on capital expenditures. In 2023, we spent $105.4 million on capital expenditures which primarily related to investments in our technology initiatives, supply chain centers and corporate store operations. We did not have any material commitments for capital expenditures as of December 31, 2023.
Investments
We hold a non-controlling interest in DPC Dash, our master franchisee in China that owns and operates Domino’s Pizza stores in that market.
As of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, the carrying amount of our investment in DPC Dash was $143.6 million and $125.8 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, the fair value of our investment in DPC Dash was based on the active exchange quoted price for the equity security of HK$61.95 per share. We recorded a total net adjustment to the carrying amount of our investment in DPC Dash of $17.7 million in 2023, with the unrealized gain recorded in other income in our consolidated statements of income. We did not record any adjustments to the carrying amount of our investment in 2022.
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Share Repurchase Programs
Our share repurchase programs have historically been funded by excess operating cash flows, excess proceeds from our recapitalization transactions and borrowings under our variable funding notes. We used cash of $269.0 million in 2023, $293.7 million in 2022 and $1.32 billion in 2021 for share repurchases.
On October 4, 2019, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of our common stock. On February 24, 2021, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of our common stock, which was fully utilized in connection with the ASR Agreement, described below. On April 30, 2021, we entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement with a counterparty (the “ASR Agreement”). Pursuant to the terms of the ASR Agreement, on May 3, 2021, we used a portion of the proceeds from the 2021 Recapitalization to pay the counterparty $1.0 billion in cash and received and retired 2,012,596 shares of our common stock. Final settlement of the ASR Agreement occurred on July 21, 2021. In connection with the ASR Agreement, we received and retired a total of 2,250,786 shares of our common stock at an average price of $444.29, including the 2,012,596 shares of our common stock received and retired during the second quarter of 2021.
On July 20, 2021, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of our common stock. This repurchase program replaced our previously approved $1.0 billion share repurchase program, which was fully utilized in connection with the ASR Agreement. We had $141.3 million remaining under this share repurchase authorization as of December 31, 2023.
Subsequent to the end of fiscal 2023, on February 21, 2024, our Board of Directors authorized an additional share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of our common stock, in addition to the $141.3 million that was previously remaining for a total authorization of $1.14 billion for future share repurchases.
Dividends
We declared dividends of $170.4 million (or $4.84 per share) in 2023, $157.5 million (or $4.40 per share) in 2022 and $139.6 million (or $3.76 per share) in 2021. We paid dividends of $169.8 million, $157.5 million and $139.4 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Subsequent to the end of fiscal 2023, on February 21, 2024, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $1.51 per common share payable on March 29, 2024 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 15, 2024.
Sources and Uses of Cash
The following table illustrates the main components of our cash flows:
| Fiscal Year Ended | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In millions) | December 31, 2023 | January 1, 2023 | ||||||
| Cash flows provided by (used in) | ||||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 590.9 | $ | 475.3 | ||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (106.9 | ) | (53.7 | ) | ||||
| Net cash used in financing activities | (476.4 | ) | (515.9 | ) | ||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash | 0.3 | (1.0 | ) | |||||
| Change in cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and cash equivalents | $ | 7.9 | $ | (95.3 | ) |
Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities increased $115.5 million in 2023 primarily due to the positive impact of changes in operating assets and liabilities of $93.5 million. The positive impact of changes in operating assets and liabilities primarily related to the timing of payments on accrued liabilities, accounts payable and income taxes, as well as the timing and pricing of inventory in 2023 as compared to 2022. Additionally, net income increased $66.9 million and non-cash adjustments decreased $9.7 million, resulting in an overall increase to cash provided by operating activities in 2023 as compared to 2022 of $57.2 million. These increases in cash provided by operating activities were partially offset by a $35.2 million negative impact of changes in advertising fund assets and liabilities, restricted, in 2023 as compared to 2022 due to payments for advertising activities outpacing receipts from advertising contributions.
We are focused on continually improving our net income and cash flow provided by operating activities and management expects to continue to generate positive cash flows from operating activities for the foreseeable future.
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Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities was $106.9 million in 2023, which consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $105.4 million (driven primarily by investments in technological initiatives, supply chain centers and corporate store operations).
Cash used in investing activities was $53.7 million in 2022, which consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $87.2 million (driven primarily by investments in technological initiatives, supply chain centers and corporate store operations). In connection with the 2022 Store Sale, we refranchised 114 U.S. Company-owned stores for $41.1 million. Additionally, we acquired 23 U.S. franchised stores from certain of our U.S. franchisees for $6.8 million.
Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities was $476.4 million in 2023. We repurchased and retired $269.0 million in shares of our common stock under our Board of Directors-approved share repurchase program and we also made dividend payments to our shareholders of $169.8 million. We also made repayments of long-term debt and principal amounts related to our financing obligations and finance leases of $55.7 million and had tax payments for the vesting of restricted stock of $5.4 million. These uses of cash were partially offset by proceeds from our failed sale leaseback transaction of $14.9 million and from the exercise of stock options of $8.7 million.
Cash used in financing activities was $515.9 million in 2022. We repurchased and retired $293.7 million in shares of our common stock under our Board of Directors-approved share repurchase program and we also made dividend payments to our shareholders of $157.5 million. We borrowed and repaid $120.0 million under our 2021 Variable Funding Notes and also made $55.7 million in repayments on our long-term debt and finance lease obligations. We made $10.7 million of tax payments for restricted stock upon vesting and we also paid $1.6 million in financing costs associated with the issuance of our 2022 Variable Funding Notes. We also received proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $3.3 million.
Impact of Inflation
Given the inflation rates in recent years, there have been and may continue to be increases in food costs and labor costs which have and could further impact our profitability and that of our franchisees and which could impact the opening of new U.S. and international franchised stores and adversely affect our operating results. Factors such as inflation, increased food costs, increased labor and employee health and benefit costs, increased rent costs and increased energy costs may adversely affect our operating costs and profitability and those of our franchisees and could result in menu price increases. The impact of inflation is described with respect to our market basket pricing to stores and our labor cost, in the discussion of supply chain revenues and U.S. Company-owned store and supply chain gross margins, above. Severe increases in inflation could affect the global and U.S. economies and could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further discussion on the impact of commodities and other cost pressures is included above, as well as in Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
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SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
This Form 10-K includes various forward-looking statements about the Company within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”) that are based on current management expectations that involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. The following cautionary statements are being made pursuant to the provisions of the Act and with the intention of obtaining the benefits of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Act.
These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “should,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “approximately,” “potential,” “outlook” and similar terms and phrases that concern our strategy, plans or intentions, including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements address various matters including information concerning future results of operations and business strategy, the expected demand for future pizza delivery and carryout, our expectation that we will meet the terms of our agreement with our third-party supplier of pizza cheese, our belief that alternative third-party suppliers are available for our key ingredients in the event we are required to replace any of our supply partners, our intention to continue to enhance and grow online ordering, digital marketing and technological capabilities, our expectation that there will be no material environmental compliance-related capital expenditures, our plans to expand U.S. and international operations in many of the markets where we currently operate and in selected new markets, our expectation that the obligation for advertising fees payable to DNAF will remain in place for the foreseeable future, and the availability of our borrowings under the 2021 Variable Funding Notes and 2022 Variable Funding Notes for, among other things, funding working capital requirements, paying capital expenditures and funding other general corporate purposes, including payment of dividends.
Forward-looking statements relating to our anticipated profitability, estimates in same store sales growth, store growth and the growth of our U.S. and international business in general, ability to service our indebtedness, our future cash flows, our operating performance, trends in our business and other descriptions of future events reflect management’s expectations based upon currently available information and data. While we believe these expectations and projections are based on reasonable assumptions, such forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, including the risk factors listed under Item 1A. Risk Factors, as well as other cautionary language in this Form 10-K.
Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including but not limited to, the following:
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our substantial increased indebtedness as a result of the 2021 Recapitalization, 2019 Recapitalization, 2018 Recapitalization, 2017 Recapitalization and 2015 Recapitalization and our ability to incur additional indebtedness or refinance or renegotiate key terms of that indebtedness in the future;
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the impact a downgrade in our credit rating may have on our business, financial condition and results of operations;
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our future financial performance and our ability to pay principal and interest on our indebtedness;
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the strength of our brand, including our ability to compete in the U.S. and internationally in our intensely competitive industry, including the food service and food delivery markets;
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our ability to successfully implement our growth strategy, including through our participation in the third-party order aggregation marketplace;
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labor shortages or changes in operating expenses resulting from increases in prices of food (particularly cheese), fuel and other commodity costs, labor, utilities, insurance, employee benefits and other operating costs or negative economic conditions;
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the effectiveness of our advertising, operations and promotional initiatives;
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shortages, interruptions or disruptions in the supply or delivery of fresh food products and store equipment;
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the impact of social media and other consumer-oriented technologies on our business, brand and reputation;
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the impact of new or improved technologies and alternative methods of delivery on consumer behavior;
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new product, digital ordering and concept developments by us, and other food-industry competitors;
•
the additional risks our international operations subject us to;
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our ability to maintain good relationships with and attract new franchisees and franchisees’ ability to successfully manage their operations without negatively impacting our royalty payments and fees or our brand’s reputation;
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our ability to successfully implement cost-saving strategies;
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our ability and that of our franchisees to successfully operate in the current and future credit environment;
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changes in the level of consumer spending given general economic conditions, including interest rates, energy prices and consumer confidence or negative economic conditions in general;
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our ability and that of our franchisees to open new restaurants and keep existing restaurants in operation and maintain demand for new stores;
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the impact that widespread illness, health epidemics or general health concerns, severe weather conditions and natural disasters may have on our business and the economies of the countries where we operate;
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changes in foreign currency exchange rates;
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changes in income tax rates;
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our ability to retain or replace our executive officers and other key members of management and our ability to adequately staff our stores and supply chain centers with qualified personnel;
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our ability to find and/or retain suitable real estate for our stores and supply chain centers;
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changes in government legislation or regulation, including changes in laws and regulations regarding information privacy, payment methods, advertising and consumer protection and social media;
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adverse legal judgments or settlements;
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food-borne illness or contamination of products or food tampering or other events that may impact our reputation;
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data breaches, power loss, technological failures, user error or other cyber risks threatening us or our franchisees;
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the impact that environmental, social and governance matters may have on our business and reputation;
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the effect of war, terrorism, catastrophic events, geopolitical or reputational considerations or climate change;
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our ability to pay dividends and repurchase shares;
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changes in consumer taste, spending and traffic patterns and demographic trends;
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changes in accounting policies; and
•
adequacy of our insurance coverage.
In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this Form 10-K might not occur. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Form 10-K and should be evaluated with an understanding of their inherent uncertainty. Except as required under federal securities laws and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, we will not undertake, and specifically disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances arising after the date of this Form 10-K, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-K or that may be made elsewhere from time to time by, or on behalf of, us. All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements.
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FY 2023 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000950170-23-003938.
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Overview
Our fiscal year typically includes 52 weeks, comprised of three twelve-week quarters and one sixteen-week quarter. Every five or six years our fiscal year includes an extra (or 53rd) week in the fourth quarter. Fiscal 2022 and 2021 each consisted of 52 weeks and fiscal 2020 consisted of 53 weeks.
In this section, we discuss the results of our operations for the fiscal year ended January 1, 2023 compared to the fiscal year ended January 2, 2022. For a discussion of the fiscal year ended January 2, 2022 compared to the fiscal year ended January 3, 2021, please refer to Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 2, 2022.
Description of the Business
Domino’s is the largest pizza company in the world, with more than 19,800 locations in over 90 markets around the world as of January 1, 2023, and operates two distinct service models within its stores with a significant business in both delivery and carryout. Founded in 1960, we are a highly-recognized global brand, and we focus on value while serving neighborhoods locally through our large network of franchise owners and Company-owned stores through both the delivery and carryout service models. We are primarily a franchisor, with approximately 99% of Domino’s global stores owned and operated by our independent franchisees as of January 1, 2023.
Our business model is straightforward: Domino’s stores handcraft and serve quality food at a competitive price, with easy ordering access and efficient service, enhanced by our technological innovations. Our hand-tossed dough is made fresh and distributed to stores around the world by us and our franchisees.
Domino’s generates revenues and earnings by charging royalties and fees to our independent franchisees. We also generate revenues and earnings by selling food, equipment and supplies to franchisees primarily in the U.S. and Canada and by operating a number of Company-owned stores in the U.S. Franchisees profit by selling pizza and other complementary items to their local customers. In our international markets, we generally grant geographical rights to the Domino’s Pizza brand to master franchisees. These master franchisees are charged with developing their geographical area, and they can profit by sub-franchising and selling food and equipment to those sub-franchisees, as well as by running pizza stores directly. We believe that everyone in the system can benefit, including the end consumer, who can feed their family conveniently and economically.
Our financial results are driven largely by retail sales at our franchised and Company-owned stores. Changes in retail sales are driven by changes in same store sales and store counts. We monitor both of these metrics very closely, as they directly impact our revenues and profits, and we strive to consistently increase both metrics. Retail sales drive royalty payments from franchisees, as well as Company-owned store and supply chain revenues. Retail sales are primarily impacted by the strength of the Domino’s Pizza brand, the results of our extensive advertising through various media channels, the impact of technological innovation and digital ordering, our ability to execute our strong and proven business model and the overall global economic environment.
Our business model can yield strong returns for our franchise owners and our Company-owned stores. It can also yield significant cash flow to us, through a consistent franchise royalty payment and supply chain revenue stream, with moderate capital expenditures. We have historically returned cash to shareholders through dividend payments and share repurchases since becoming a publicly-traded company in 2004. We believe we have a proven business model for success, which includes leading with technology, service and product innovation and leveraging our global scale, which has historically provided strong returns for our shareholders.
Critical accounting estimates
The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires our management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, our management evaluates its estimates, including those related to long-lived assets, casualty insurance reserves and income taxes. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from those estimates, and changes in estimates could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition for any particular period.
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We believe that our most critical accounting estimates are:
Long-lived assets
We record long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and capitalized software, at cost. For acquisitions of franchise operations, we estimate the fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired based on physical inspection of assets, historical experience and other information available to us regarding the acquisition. We depreciate and amortize long-lived assets using useful lives determined by us based on historical experience and other information available to us. We evaluate the potential impairment of long-lived assets at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Our periodic evaluation is based on various analyses, including, on an annual basis, the projection of undiscounted cash flows. If we determine that the carrying amount of an asset (or asset group) may not be recoverable, we compare the net carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted net cash flows to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of that asset group. For Company-owned stores, we perform related impairment tests on an operating market basis, which we have determined to be the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of other cash flows. If the carrying amount of a long-lived asset exceeds the amount of the expected future undiscounted cash flows of that asset, we estimate the fair value of the asset. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the estimated fair value of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized, and the asset is written down to its estimated fair value.
We have not made any significant changes in the methodology used to project the future market cash flows of Company-owned stores during the years presented. Same store sales fluctuations and the rates at which operating costs will fluctuate in the future are key factors in determining projected cash flows used to evaluate recoverability of the related assets. If our same store sales significantly decline or if operating costs increase and we are unable to recover these costs, the carrying value of our Company-owned stores, by market, may be unrecoverable and we may be required to recognize an impairment charge. There were no triggering events in 2022, 2021 or 2020, and accordingly, we did not record any impairment losses on long-lived assets in 2022, 2021 and 2020.
Casualty insurance reserves
For certain periods prior to December 1998 and for periods after December 2001, we maintain insurance coverage for workers’ compensation, general liability and owned and non-owned auto liabilities. We are generally responsible for up to $2.0 million per occurrence under these retention programs for workers’ compensation and general liability, depending on policy year and line of coverage. We are generally responsible for up to between $500,000 and $5.5 million per occurrence under these retention programs for owned and non-owned automobile liabilities, depending on policy year and line of coverage. The related insurance reserves are based on undiscounted independent actuarial estimates, which are based on historical information along with assumptions about future events. There is inherent uncertainty in the ultimate cost for known claims under our insurance coverages, and for incidents that have occurred that will be subject to a claim, but have yet to be reported to us. Analyses of historical trends and actuarial valuation methods are utilized to estimate the ultimate claim costs for claims incurred as of the balance sheet date and for claims incurred but not yet reported. When estimating these liabilities, several factors are considered, including the severity, duration and frequency of claims, legal cost associated with claims, healthcare trends and projected inflation.
Our methodology for determining our exposure has remained consistent throughout the years presented. Management believes that the various assumptions developed, and actuarial methods used to determine our casualty insurance reserves are reasonable and provide meaningful data that management uses to make its best estimate of our exposure to these risks. Changes in assumptions for such factors as medical costs and legal actions, as well as changes in actual experience, could cause our estimates to change in the near term which could result in an increase or decrease in the related expense in future periods. A 10% change in our casualty insurance liability at January 1, 2023 would have affected our income before provision for income taxes by approximately $5.8 million in 2022. We had accruals for casualty insurance reserves of $57.6 million and $56.5 million at January 1, 2023 and January 2, 2022, respectively.
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Income taxes
The U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate was 21% in each of 2022, 2021 and 2020. Our Federal income tax provision calculated based on the Federal statutory rate was $120.3 million, $131.4 million and $116.6 million in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. We measure deferred taxes using current enacted tax rates that will apply in the years in which we expect the temporary differences to be recovered or paid. Judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes, related reserves and deferred taxes. These include establishing a valuation allowance related to the ability to realize certain deferred tax assets, if necessary. On an ongoing basis, management will assess whether it remains more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized. Our accounting for deferred taxes represents our best estimate of future events. Except with respect to certain foreign tax credits and interest deductibility in separately filed states, our deferred tax assets assume that we will generate sufficient taxable income in specific tax jurisdictions, based on our estimates and assumptions. As of January 1, 2023 and January 2, 2022, we had total foreign tax credits of $13.5 million and $10.2 million, respectively, each of which were fully offset with a corresponding valuation allowance. We also had valuation allowances related to interest deductibility in separately filed states of $1.5 million and $1.2 million as of January 1, 2023 and January 2, 2022, respectively. We believe our remaining deferred tax assets will be realized. Changes in our current estimates due to unanticipated events could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
Fiscal 2022 Highlights
•
Global retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact (which includes total retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores worldwide) increased 3.9% as compared to 2021. U.S. retail sales increased 1.3% and international retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact, increased 6.3% each as compared to 2021.
•
Same store sales declined 0.8% in our U.S. stores and increased 0.1% in our international stores, excluding foreign currency impact.
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Revenues increased 4.1%.
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Income from operations decreased 1.6%.
•
Net income decreased 11.4%.
•
Diluted earnings per share decreased 7.5%.
Excluding the negative impact of foreign currency, Domino’s experienced global retail sales growth during 2022. U.S. same store sales declined 0.8% during 2022, rolling over an increase in U.S. same store sales of 3.5% in 2021. The decline in U.S. same store sales in 2022 was attributable to lower order counts due in part to labor shortages affecting store hours and staffing levels in many of our markets and economic stimulus activity in the U.S in 2021 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic which did not recur in 2022. A higher average ticket per transaction resulting from higher menu and national offer pricing as well as increases to our average delivery fee partially offset the decline in U.S. same store sales in 2022. International same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) increased 0.1% during 2022, rolling over an increase in international same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) of 8.0% in 2021. International same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) were pressured in 2022 due in part to a value added tax holiday in the United Kingdom in 2021 that expired during the first quarter of 2022. Our U.S. and international same store sales (excluding foreign currency impact) continue to be pressured by our fortressing strategy, which includes increasing store concentration in certain markets where we compete, as well as from aggressive competitive activity.
During fiscal 2022, we experienced significant inflationary pressures in our commodity, labor and fuel costs resulting from the macroeconomic environment in the U.S., which had a significant impact on our overall operating results as compared to 2021. Our overall operating results in fiscal 2022 were also negatively impacted by changes in foreign currency exchange rates resulting from the global macroeconomic environment.
During 2022, we continued our global expansion with the opening of 1,032 net stores. We had 126 net stores open in the U.S. comprised of 141 store openings and 15 closures. We had 906 net stores open internationally comprised of 1,135 store openings and 229 closures, primarily in Brazil, Russia and Italy.
We remained focused on improving the customer experience through our technology initiatives, including our GPS delivery tracking technology, which allows customers to monitor the progress of their food, from the preparation stages to the time it is in the oven to the time it arrives at their doors. Our emphasis on technological innovation helped the Domino’s system generate approximately two-thirds of global retail sales from digital channels in 2022. Overall, we believe our continued global store growth, along with our global retail sales growth (excluding foreign currency impact), emphasis on technology and marketing initiatives, have combined to strengthen our brand.
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Statistical Measures
The tables below outline certain statistical measures we utilize to analyze our performance. This historical data is not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for any future period.
Global Retail Sales Growth (excluding foreign currency impact)
Global retail sales growth (excluding foreign currency impact) is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Global retail sales growth refers to total worldwide retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores. We believe global retail sales information is useful in analyzing revenues because franchisees pay royalties and, in the U.S., advertising fees that are based on a percentage of franchise retail sales. We review comparable industry global retail sales information to assess business trends and to track the growth of the Domino’s Pizza brand. In addition, supply chain revenues are directly impacted by changes in franchise retail sales in the U.S. and Canada. Retail sales for franchise stores are reported to us by our franchisees and are not included in our revenues. Global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, is calculated as the change of international local currency global retail sales against the comparable period of the prior year. Global retail sales growth in 2021 and 2020 reflect the impact of the 53rd week in 2020.
| 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. stores | + 1.3% | + 4.3% | + 17.6% | ||||||||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) | + 6.3% | + 13.9% | + 8.8% | ||||||||
| Total (excluding foreign currency impact) | + 3.9% | + 8.9% | + 13.2% |
Same Store Sales Growth
Same store sales growth is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Same store sales growth is calculated for a given period by including only sales from stores that also had sales in the comparable weeks of both periods. International same store sales growth is calculated similarly to U.S. same store sales growth. Changes in international same store sales are reported on a constant dollar basis, which reflects changes in international local currency sales. The 53rd week in fiscal 2020 had no impact on reported same store sales growth amounts.
| 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores (1) | (2.6)% | (3.6)% | + 11.0% | |||
| U.S. franchise stores (1) | (0.7)% | + 3.9% | + 11.5% | |||
| U.S. stores | (0.8)% | + 3.5% | + 11.5% | |||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) | + 0.1% | + 8.0% | + 4.4% |
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| (1) | During the first quarter of 2022, we purchased 23 U.S. franchised stores from certain of our existing U.S. franchisees (the “2022 Store Purchase”). The same store sales growth for these stores is reflected in U.S. Company-owned stores in 2022. During the fourth quarter of 2022, we refranchised 114 U.S. Company-owned stores (the “2022 Store Sale”). The same store sales growth for these stores is reflected in U.S. franchise stores in 2022. |
Store Growth Activity
Store counts and net store growth are commonly used statistical measures in the quick-service restaurant industry that are important to understanding performance.
| U.S. Company- owned Stores | U.S. Franchise Stores | Total U.S. Stores | International Stores | Total | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Store count at December 29, 2019 | 342 | 5,784 | 6,126 | 10,894 | 17,020 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 22 | 218 | 240 | 718 | 958 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (10 | ) | (11 | ) | (323 | ) | (334 | ) | ||||||||||
| Store count at January 3, 2021 | 363 | 5,992 | 6,355 | 11,289 | 17,644 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 13 | 201 | 214 | 1,094 | 1,308 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (8 | ) | (9 | ) | (95 | ) | (104 | ) | ||||||||||
| Store count at January 2, 2022 | 375 | 6,185 | 6,560 | 12,288 | 18,848 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 5 | 136 | 141 | 1,135 | 1,276 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (3 | ) | (12 | ) | (15 | ) | (229 | ) | (244 | ) | ||||||||||
| Transfers | (91 | ) | 91 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Store count at January 1, 2023 | 286 | 6,400 | 6,686 | 13,194 | 19,880 |
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Income Statement Data
(tabular amounts in millions, except percentages)
| 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 445.8 | $ | 479.0 | $ | 485.6 | ||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 556.3 | 539.9 | 503.2 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,754.7 | 2,561.0 | 2,416.7 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| International franchise royalties and fees | 295.0 | 298.0 | 249.8 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 485.3 | 479.5 | 462.2 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total revenues | 4,537.2 | 100.0 | % | 4,357.4 | 100.0 | % | 4,117.4 | 100.0 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Cost of sales: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. Company-owned stores | 378.0 | 374.1 | 379.6 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,510.5 | 2,295.0 | 2,143.3 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total cost of sales | 2,888.6 | 63.7 | % | 2,669.1 | 61.3 | % | 2,522.9 | 61.3 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Gross margin | 1,648.6 | 36.3 | % | 1,688.2 | 38.7 | % | 1,594.5 | 38.7 | % | |||||||||||||||
| General and administrative | 416.5 | 9.2 | % | 428.3 | 9.8 | % | 406.6 | 9.9 | % | |||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 485.3 | 10.7 | % | 479.5 | 11.0 | % | 462.2 | 11.2 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Refranchising gain | (21.2 | ) | (0.5 | )% | — | 0.0 | % | — | 0.0 | % | ||||||||||||||
| Income from operations | 767.9 | 16.9 | % | 780.4 | 17.9 | % | 725.6 | 17.6 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Other income | — | 0.0 | % | 36.8 | 0.8 | % | — | 0.0 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Interest expense, net | (195.1 | ) | (4.3 | )% | (191.5 | ) | (4.3 | )% | (170.5 | ) | (4.1 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Income before provision for income taxes | 572.8 | 12.6 | % | 625.7 | 14.4 | % | 555.1 | 13.5 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | 120.6 | 2.6 | % | 115.2 | 2.7 | % | 63.8 | 1.6 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 452.3 | 10.0 | % | $ | 510.5 | 11.7 | % | $ | 491.3 | 11.9 | % |
2022 compared to 2021
(tabular amounts in millions, except percentages)
Revenues
| 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 445.8 | 9.8 | % | $ | 479.0 | 11.0 | % | ||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 556.3 | 12.3 | % | 539.9 | 12.4 | % | ||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,754.7 | 60.7 | % | 2,561.0 | 58.8 | % | ||||||||||
| International franchise royalties and fees | 295.0 | 6.5 | % | 298.0 | 6.8 | % | ||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 485.3 | 10.7 | % | 479.5 | 11.0 | % | ||||||||||
| Total revenues | $ | 4,537.2 | 100.0 | % | $ | 4,357.4 | 100.0 | % |
Revenues primarily consist of retail sales from our Company-owned stores, royalties and fees and advertising contributions from our U.S. franchised stores, royalties and fees from our international franchised stores and sales of food, equipment and supplies from our supply chain centers to substantially all of our U.S. franchised stores and certain international franchised stores. Company-owned store and franchised store revenues may vary from period to period due to changes in store count mix. Supply chain revenues may vary significantly as a result of fluctuations in commodity prices as well as the mix of products we sell.
Consolidated revenues increased $179.8 million, or 4.1%, in 2022 due primarily to higher supply chain revenues due to increases in our market basket pricing to stores. U.S. franchise royalties and fee revenues increased primarily due to retail sales growth resulting from net store growth and the 2022 Store Sale as well as an increase in revenues from fees paid by our franchisees for the use of our technology platforms, but were partially offset by lower same store sales and, to a lesser extent, the 2022 Store Purchase. U.S. franchise advertising revenues increased primarily due to retail sales growth resulting from net store growth and the 2022 Store Sale as well as lower advertising incentives related to brand promotions, but were partially offset by lower same store sales and, to a lesser extent, the 2022 Store Purchase. International franchise royalties and fee revenues declined primarily due to the negative impact of foreign currency exchange rates. U.S. Company-owned store revenues declined primarily due to the 2022 Store Sale as well as lower same store sales, but were partially offset by higher revenues resulting from the 2022 Store Purchase. These changes in revenues are described in more detail below.
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U.S. Stores
| 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 445.8 | 30.0 | % | $ | 479.0 | 32.0 | % | ||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 556.3 | 37.4 | % | 539.9 | 36.0 | % | ||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 485.3 | 32.6 | % | 479.5 | 32.0 | % | ||||||||||
| Total U.S. stores revenues | $ | 1,487.4 | 100.0 | % | $ | 1,498.4 | 100.0 | % |
U.S. Company-owned Stores
Revenues from U.S. Company-owned store operations decreased $33.2 million, or 6.9%, in 2022 primarily driven by the 2022 Store Sale. This decrease was partially offset by an increase in revenues resulting from the 2022 Store Purchase. The decrease in U.S. Company-owned store revenue was also a result of lower U.S. Company-owned same store sales in 2022. U.S. Company-owned same store sales declined 2.6% in 2022 and declined 3.6% in 2021.
U.S. Franchise Royalties and Fees
Revenues from U.S. franchise royalties and fees increased $16.4 million, or 3.0%, in 2022, due primarily to an increase in the average number of U.S. franchised stores open during the period resulting from net store growth as well as an increase in fees paid by our franchisees for the use of our technology platforms. The 2022 Store Sale also contributed to the increase in U.S. franchise royalties and fee revenues. These increases were partially offset by a decline in U.S. franchise same store sales in 2022 and, to a lesser extent, the 2022 Store Purchase. U.S. franchise same store sales decreased 0.7% in 2022 and increased 3.9% in 2021.
U.S. Franchise Advertising
Revenues from U.S. franchise advertising increased $5.8 million, or 1.2%, in 2022 due primarily to an increase in the average number of U.S. franchised stores open during the period resulting from net store growth and the 2022 Store Sale. Additionally, the Company recorded approximately $3.7 million less in advertising incentives related to certain brand promotions in 2022 as compared to 2021, which also contributed to the increase in U.S. franchise advertising revenues. These increases were partially offset by a decline in U.S. franchise same store sales in 2022 and, to a lesser extent, the 2022 Store Purchase.
Supply Chain
Supply chain revenues increased $193.8 million, or 7.6%, in 2022 due to higher market basket pricing to stores, and was partially offset by lower order volumes at our U.S. franchised stores during 2022. The market basket pricing change, a statistical measure utilized by management, is calculated as the percentage change of the market basket purchased by an average U.S. store (based on average weekly unit sales) from our U.S. supply chain centers against the comparable period of the prior year. We believe this measure is important to understanding Company performance because as our market basket prices fluctuate, our revenues, cost of sales and gross margin percentages in our supply chain segment also fluctuate. Our market basket pricing to stores increased 13.2% during 2022, which resulted in an estimated $296.1 million increase in supply chain revenues.
International Franchise Royalties and Fees
Revenues from international franchise royalties and fees decreased $3.0 million, or 1.0%, in 2022 due primarily to the negative impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates of approximately $28.4 million in 2022 which was partially offset by an increase in the average number of international franchised stores open during the period resulting from net store growth. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on international franchise royalty revenues, a statistical measure utilized by management, is calculated as the difference in international franchise royalty revenues resulting from translating current year local currency results to U.S. dollars at current year exchange rates as compared to prior year exchange rates. We believe this measure is important to understanding Company performance given the significant variability in international franchise royalty revenues that can be driven by changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rates, international same store sales increased 0.1% in 2022 and increased 8.0% in 2021.
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Cost of Sales / Gross Margin
| 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total revenues | $ | 4,537.2 | 100.0 | % | $ | 4,357.4 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Total cost of sales | 2,888.6 | 63.7 | % | 2,669.1 | 61.3 | % | ||||||||||
| Gross margin | $ | 1,648.6 | 36.3 | % | $ | 1,688.2 | 38.7 | % |
Consolidated cost of sales consists primarily of U.S. Company-owned store and supply chain costs incurred to generate related revenues. Components of consolidated cost of sales primarily include food, labor, delivery and occupancy costs. Consolidated gross margin (which we define as revenues less cost of sales) decreased $39.6 million, or 2.3%, in 2022 due primarily to lower U.S. Company-owned store revenues, as well as higher food, delivery and labor costs. Franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on gross margin. Additionally, as our market basket prices fluctuate, our revenues, cost of sales and gross margin percentages in our supply chain segment also fluctuate; however, actual product-level dollar gross margins remain unchanged.
As a percentage of revenues, the consolidated gross margin decreased 2.4 percentage points to 36.3% in 2022 from 38.7% in 2021. Company-owned store gross margin decreased 6.7 percentage points in 2022 and supply chain gross margin decreased 1.5 percentage points in 2022. These changes in gross margin are described in more detail below.
U.S. Company-owned Stores Gross Margin
| 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 445.8 | 100.0 | % | $ | 479.0 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of sales | 378.0 | 84.8 | % | 374.1 | 78.1 | % | ||||||||||
| Store gross margin | $ | 67.8 | 15.2 | % | $ | 104.9 | 21.9 | % |
U.S. Company-owned store gross margin (which does not include other store-level costs such as royalties and advertising) decreased $37.1 million, or 35.4%, in 2022 due primarily to the 2022 Store Sale and higher market basket prices and, to a lesser extent, higher occupancy costs. These decreases were partially offset by lower labor and delivery costs, primarily attributable to the decrease in the average number of U.S. Company-owned stores open during the period resulting from the 2022 Store Sale. As a percentage of U.S. Company-owned store revenues, the U.S. Company-owned store gross margin decreased 6.7 percentage points in 2022. These changes in U.S. Company-owned store gross margin as a percentage of revenues are discussed in more detail below.
•
Food costs increased 3.3 percentage points to 31.4% in 2022 due to higher market basket prices.
•
Labor costs increased 1.5 percentage points to 30.5% in 2022 due primarily to continued investments in frontline team member wage rates in our U.S. Company-owned stores, as well as lower sales leverage.
•
Occupancy costs, which include rent, telephone, utilities and depreciation, increased 1.2 percentage points to 9.2% in 2022 due primarily to lower sales leverage, as well as higher utility rates in our U.S. Company-owned stores.
Supply Chain Gross Margin
| 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 2,754.7 | 100.0 | % | $ | 2,561.0 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of sales | 2,510.5 | 91.1 | % | 2,295.0 | 89.6 | % | ||||||||||
| Supply chain gross margin | $ | 244.2 | 8.9 | % | $ | 266.0 | 10.4 | % |
Supply chain gross margin decreased $21.7 million, or 8.2%, in 2022 due primarily to higher delivery and labor costs. As a percentage of supply chain revenues, the supply chain gross margin decreased 1.5 percentage points in 2022, due primarily to higher food and delivery costs. The increases in food and delivery costs as a percentage of supply chain revenues resulted from macroeconomic inflationary pressures in the U.S., as well as lower sales leverage.
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General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses decreased $11.8 million, or 2.8%, in 2022 driven primarily by lower labor costs, partially offset by higher amortization expense for capitalized software.
U.S. Franchise Advertising Expenses
U.S. franchise advertising expenses increased $5.8 million, or 1.2%, in 2022 due to higher U.S. franchise advertising revenues as discussed above. U.S. franchise advertising costs are accrued and expensed when the related U.S. franchise advertising revenues are recognized, as our consolidated not-for-profit advertising fund is obligated to expend such revenues on advertising and other activities that promote the Domino’s brand and these revenues cannot be used for general corporate purposes.
Refranchising Gain
During 2022, we completed the 2022 Store Sale in which we refranchised 114 U.S. Company-owned stores in Arizona and Utah for proceeds of $41.1 million. In connection with the 2022 Store Sale, we recorded a $21.2 million pre-tax refranchising gain on the sale of the related assets and liabilities, including a $4.3 million reduction in goodwill.
Other Income
Other income was $36.8 million in 2021, representing the unrealized gains recorded on the Company’s investment in DPC Dash Ltd resulting from the observable changes in price from the valuation of the Company’s additional $40.0 million investment made in the first quarter of 2021 and the additional $9.1 million investment made in the fourth quarter of 2021. We did not record any adjustments to the carrying amount of $125.8 million in fiscal 2022.
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net, increased $3.6 million, or 1.9%, in 2022 driven primarily by higher average borrowings resulting from our recapitalization transaction completed on April 16, 2021 (the “2021 Recapitalization”), as well as borrowings on our variable funding notes. These increases were partially offset by higher interest income earned on our cash equivalents and restricted cash equivalents in 2022 as well as lower debt issuance cost expense recognized in 2022 due to the 2021 Recapitalization in which we expensed $2.0 million of the remaining unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the 2017 Five-Year Notes and 2017 Floating Rate Notes (each defined in the “2017 Recapitalization” section, below). Our weighted average borrowing rate was 3.8% in both 2022 and 2021.
Provision for Income Taxes
Provision for income taxes increased $5.3 million, or 4.6% in 2022 due to a higher effective tax rate, partially offset by a decrease in income before provision for income taxes. The effective tax rate increased to 21.0% during 2022 as compared to 18.4% in 2021. The higher effective tax rate in 2022 was driven in part by a 2.6 percentage point change in excess tax benefits from equity-based compensation, which are recorded as a reduction to the provision for income taxes. The decrease in excess tax benefits from equity-based compensation was a result of fewer stock option exercises in 2022 as compared to 2021. The increase in the effective tax rate was also a result of lower foreign tax credits in 2022. These increases were partially offset by the release of certain unrecognized tax benefits related to one of our foreign subsidiaries during 2022.
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Segment Income
We evaluate the performance of our reportable segments and allocate resources to them based on earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and other, referred to as Segment Income. Segment Income for each of our reportable segments is summarized in the table below. Other Segment Income primarily includes corporate administrative costs that are not allocable to a reportable segment, including labor, computer expenses, professional fees, travel and entertainment, rent, insurance and other corporate administrative costs.
| 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Stores | $ | 438.6 | $ | 454.9 | ||||
| Supply Chain | 208.8 | 229.9 | ||||||
| International Franchise | 236.1 | 241.9 | ||||||
| Other | (26.0 | ) | (42.9 | ) |
U.S. Stores
U.S. stores Segment Income decreased $16.3 million, or 3.6%, in 2022, primarily as a result of the $37.1 million decrease in U.S. Company-owned store gross margin, and was partially offset by the increase in revenues from U.S. franchise royalties and fees of $16.4 million, each as discussed above. U.S. franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on U.S. stores Segment Income. U.S. franchise advertising costs are accrued and expensed when the related U.S. franchise advertising revenues are recognized and had no impact on U.S. stores Segment Income.
Supply Chain
Supply chain Segment Income decreased $21.1 million, or 9.2%, in 2022 due primarily to the $21.7 million decrease in supply chain gross margin described above.
International Franchise
International franchise Segment Income decreased $5.7 million, or 2.4%, in 2022 due primarily to the $3.0 million decrease in international franchise revenues discussed above, as well as higher provision for losses on accounts receivable. International franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on international franchise Segment Income.
Other
Other Segment Income increased $16.9 million, or 39.4%, in 2022 due primarily to lower labor costs as well as higher corporate administrative costs allocated to our segments as compared to 2021. The increase in allocated costs in 2022 was due primarily to higher investments in technological initiatives to support technology for our U.S. and international franchise stores.
New Accounting Pronouncements
The impact of new accounting pronouncements adopted and the estimated impact of new accounting pronouncements that we will adopt in future years is included in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements.
COVID-19 Impact
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have made certain investments related to safety and cleaning equipment, enhanced sick pay and compensation for frontline team members and support for our franchisees and their communities. While we have seen an increase in sales in certain markets during the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased sales related to heightened reliance on delivery and carryout businesses, future sales are not possible to estimate and it is unclear whether and to what extent sales and same store sales will be impacted if and when consumer behavior and general economic and business activity return to pre-pandemic levels. While it is not possible at this time to estimate the full continued impact that COVID-19 could have on our business, the continued spread of COVID-19 and the measures taken by the governments of countries affected could disrupt our continuing operations and supply chain and, as a result, could adversely impact our business, financial condition or results of operations.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Historically, our receivable collection periods and inventory turn rates are faster than the normal payment terms on our current liabilities resulting in efficient deployment of working capital. We generally collect our receivables within three weeks from the date of the related sale and we generally experience multiple inventory turns per month. In addition, our sales are not typically seasonal, which further limits variations in our working capital requirements. These factors allow us to manage our working capital and our ongoing cash flows from operations to invest in our business and other strategic opportunities, pay dividends and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock. As of January 1, 2023, we had working capital of $58.0 million, excluding restricted cash and cash equivalents of $191.3 million, advertising fund assets, restricted of $162.7 million and advertising fund liabilities of $157.9 million. Working capital includes total unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $60.4 million.
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash flows from operations and availability of borrowings under our variable funding notes. During 2022, we experienced global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, in both our U.S. and international businesses. These factors contributed to our continued ability to generate positive operating cash flows. In addition to our cash flows from operations, we have two variable funding note facilities. The facilities include our 2022 Variable Funding Notes (defined in the “2022 Variable Funding Notes” section, below), which allows for advances of up to $120.0 million, as well as our 2021 Variable Funding Notes (defined in the “2021 Recapitalization” section, below), which allows for advances of up to $200.0 million and certain other credit instruments, including letters of credit (collectively, with the 2022 Variable Funding Notes, the “2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes”). The letters of credit primarily relate to our casualty insurance programs and certain supply chain center leases. During 2022, we borrowed and repaid $120.0 million under our 2021 Variable Funding Notes. As of January 1, 2023, we had no outstanding borrowings and $120.0 million of available borrowing capacity under our 2022 Variable Funding Notes. As of January 1, 2023, we had no outstanding borrowings and $157.8 million of available borrowing capacity under our 2021 Variable Funding Notes, net of letters of credit issued of $42.2 million.
We expect to continue to use our unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, cash flows from operations, excess cash from our recapitalization transactions and available borrowings under our 2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes to, among other things, fund working capital requirements, invest in our core business and other strategic opportunities, pay dividends and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock.
Our ability to continue to fund these items and continue to service our debt could be adversely affected by the occurrence of any of the events described in Item 1A. Risk Factors. There can be no assurance that our business will generate sufficient cash flows from operations or that future borrowings will be available under our 2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes or otherwise to enable us to service our indebtedness, or to make anticipated capital expenditures. Our future operating performance and our ability to service, extend or refinance the 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2015 Notes and to service, extend or refinance the 2022 and 2021 Variable Funding Notes will be subject to future economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our control.
Restricted Cash
As of January 1, 2023, we had $141.2 million of restricted cash and cash equivalents held for future principal and interest payments and other working capital requirements of our asset-backed securitization structure, $49.9 million of restricted cash equivalents held in a three-month interest reserve as required by the related debt agreements and $0.2 million of other restricted cash for a total of $191.3 million of restricted cash and cash equivalents. As of January 1, 2023, we also held $143.6 million of advertising fund restricted cash and cash equivalents which can only be used for activities that promote the Domino’s brand.
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Long-Term Debt
2022 Variable Funding Notes
On September 16, 2022, certain of our subsidiaries issued a new variable funding note facility which allows for advances of up to $120.0 million of Series 2022-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 Notes (the “2022 Variable Funding Notes”). Additional information related to our 2022 Variable Funding Notes is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2021 Recapitalization
On April 16, 2021, we completed the 2021 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consist of $850.0 million Series 2021-1 2.662% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of 7.5 years (the “2021 7.5-Year Notes”) and $1.0 billion Series 2021-1 3.151% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2021 Ten-Year Notes”, and, collectively with the 2021 7.5-Year Notes, the “2021 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2021 Notes were $1.85 billion.
Concurrently, certain of our subsidiaries also issued a new variable funding note facility which allows for advances of up to $200.0 million of Series 2021-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 Notes and certain other credit instruments, including letters of credit (the “2021 Variable Funding Notes”). In connection with the issuance of the 2021 Variable Funding Notes, our 2019 variable funding notes were canceled.
The proceeds from the 2021 Recapitalization were used to repay the remaining $291.0 million in outstanding principal under our 2017 Floating Rate Notes and $582.0 million in outstanding principal under our 2017 Five-Year Notes, prefund a portion of the interest payable on the 2021 Notes, pay transaction fees and expenses and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock. Additional information related to the 2021 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2019 Recapitalization
On November 19, 2019, we completed the 2019 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued $675.0 million Series 2019-1 3.668% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2 with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2019 Notes”) pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. Concurrently, we also issued the 2019 variable funding notes. Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2019 Notes was $675.0 million. Additional information related to the 2019 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2018 Recapitalization
On April 24, 2018, we completed the 2018 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consist of $425.0 million Series 2018-1 4.116% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of 7.5 years (the “2018 7.5-Year Notes”), and $400.0 million Series 2018-1 4.328% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of 9.25 years (the “2018 9.25-Year Notes” and, collectively with the 2018 7.5-Year Notes, the “2018 Notes”) in an offering exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2018 Notes were $825.0 million. Additional information related to the 2018 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2017 Recapitalization
On July 24, 2017, we completed the 2017 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consisted of $300.0 million Series 2017-1 Floating Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of five years (the “2017 Floating Rate Notes”), $600.0 million Series 2017-1 3.082% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of five years (the “2017 Five-Year Notes”), and $1.0 billion Series 2017-1 4.118% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-III with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2017 Ten-Year Notes” and, collectively with the 2017 Floating Rate Notes and the 2017 Five-Year Notes, the “2017 Notes”). The interest rate on the 2017 Floating Rate Notes was payable at a rate equal to LIBOR plus 125 basis points. Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2017 Notes were $1.9 billion. The 2017 Floating Rate Notes and the 2017 Five-Year Notes were repaid in connection with the 2021 Recapitalization. Additional information related to the 2017 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
43
2015 Recapitalization
On October 21, 2015, we completed the 2015 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consisted of $500.0 million of Series 2015-1 3.484% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I (the “2015 Five-Year Notes”), $800.0 million Series 2015-1 4.474% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II (the “2015 Ten-Year Notes” and collectively with the 2015 Five-Year Notes, the “2015 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2015 Notes were $1.3 billion. The 2015 Five-Year Notes were repaid in connection with the 2018 Recapitalization. Additional information related to the 2015 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2021, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2015 Notes
The 2021 Notes, 2019 Notes, 2018 Notes, 2017 Notes and the 2015 Notes are collectively referred to as the “Notes.”
The Notes have original scheduled principal payments of $51.5 million in each of 2023 and 2024, $1.17 billion in 2025, $39.3 million in 2026, $1.31 billion in 2027, $811.5 million in 2028, $625.9 million in 2029, $10.0 million in 2030 and $905.0 million in 2031. However, in accordance with our debt agreements, the payment of principal on the outstanding senior notes may be suspended if our leverage ratio is less than or equal to 5.0x total debt, as defined, to adjusted EBITDA, as defined, and no catch-up provisions are applicable.
As of the fourth quarter of 2020, we had a leverage ratio of less than 5.0x, and accordingly, did not make the previously scheduled debt amortization payment beginning in the first quarter of 2021. Subsequent to the closing of the 2021 Recapitalization, the Company had a leverage ratio of greater than 5.0x and, accordingly, the Company resumed making the scheduled amortization payments in the second quarter of 2021.
The Notes are subject to certain financial and non-financial covenants, including a debt service coverage ratio calculation. The covenant requires a minimum coverage ratio of 1.75x total debt service to securitized net cash flow, as defined in the related agreements. In the event that certain covenants are not met, the Notes may become due and payable on an accelerated schedule.
Leases
We lease certain retail store and supply chain center locations, supply chain vehicles, various equipment and our World Resource Center under leases with expiration dates through 2041. Refer to Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our leases, including future minimum rental commitments.
Capital Expenditures
In the past three years, we have spent approximately $270.2 million on capital expenditures. In 2022, we spent $87.2 million on capital expenditures which primarily related to investments in our technology initiatives, including our proprietary internally developed point-of-sale system (Domino’s PULSE), our supply chain centers, new Company-owned stores and asset upgrades for our existing Company-owned stores and other assets. We did not have any material commitments for capital expenditures as of January 1, 2023.
Investments
During the second quarter of 2020, we acquired a non-controlling interest in DPC Dash Ltd (“DPC Dash”), a privately-held company limited by shares incorporated with limited liability under the laws of the British Virgin Islands, for $40.0 million. Through its subsidiaries, DPC Dash serves as the Company’s master franchisee in China that owns and operates Domino’s Pizza stores in that market. Our investment in DPC Dash’s senior ordinary shares, which are not in-substance common stock, represents an equity investment without a readily determinable fair value and is recorded at cost with adjustments for observable changes in prices resulting from orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer or impairments.
In the first quarter of 2021, we invested an additional $40.0 million in DPC Dash based on DPC Dash’s achievement of certain pre-established performance conditions and recorded a positive adjustment of $2.5 million to the original carrying amount of $40.0 million resulting from the observable change in price from the valuation of the additional investment, resulting in a net carrying amount of $82.5 million as of the end of the first quarter of 2021. In the fourth quarter of 2021, we invested an additional $9.1 million in DPC Dash and recorded a positive adjustment of $34.3 million to the carrying amount of $82.5 million resulting from the observable change in price from the valuation of the additional investment, resulting in a net carrying amount of $125.8 million as of January 2, 2022. We did not record any adjustments to the carrying amount of $125.8 million in fiscal 2022.
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Share Repurchase Programs
Our share repurchase programs have historically been funded by excess operating cash flows, excess proceeds from our recapitalization transactions and borrowings under our variable funding notes. We used cash of $293.7 million in 2022, $1.32 billion in 2021 and $304.6 million in 2020 for share repurchases.
On October 4, 2019, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of the Company’s common stock. On February 24, 2021, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of the Company's common stock, which was fully utilized in connection with the ASR Agreement, described below. On April 30, 2021, we entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement with a counterparty (the “ASR Agreement”). Pursuant to the terms of the ASR Agreement, on May 3, 2021, we used a portion of the proceeds from the 2021 Recapitalization to pay the counterparty $1.0 billion in cash and received and retired 2,012,596 shares of our common stock. Final settlement of the ASR Agreement occurred on July 21, 2021. In connection with the ASR Agreement, we received and retired a total of 2,250,786 shares of our common stock at an average price of $444.29, including the 2,012,596 shares of our common stock received and retired during the second quarter of 2021.
On July 20, 2021, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of our common stock. This repurchase program replaced our previously approved $1.0 billion share repurchase program, which was fully utilized in connection with the ASR Agreement. We had $410.4 million remaining under this share repurchase authorization as of January 1, 2023.
Dividends
We declared dividends of $157.5 million (or $4.40 per share) in 2022, $139.6 million (or $3.76 per share) in 2021 and $122.2 million (or $3.12 per share) in 2020. We paid dividends of $157.5 million, $139.4 million and $121.9 million in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
On February 21, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $1.21 per common share payable on March 30, 2023 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 15, 2023.
Sources and Uses of Cash
The following table illustrates the main components of our cash flows:
| Fiscal Year Ended | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In millions) | January 1, 2023 | January 2, 2022 | ||||||
| Cash flows provided by (used in) | ||||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 475.3 | $ | 654.2 | ||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (53.7 | ) | (142.7 | ) | ||||
| Net cash used in financing activities | (515.9 | ) | (522.8 | ) | ||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash | (1.0 | ) | (0.3 | ) | ||||
| Change in cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and cash equivalents | $ | (95.3 | ) | $ | (11.7 | ) |
Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities decreased $178.9 million in 2022 primarily due to the negative impact of changes in operating assets and liabilities of $80.8 million. The negative impact of changes in operating assets and liabilities primarily related to the timing of payments on accrued liabilities and higher cash paid for income taxes in 2022 as compared to 2021. The decrease was also a result of a $62.7 million negative impact of changes in advertising fund assets and liabilities, restricted, in 2022 as compared to 2021 due to payments for advertising activities outpacing contributions. Additionally, net income decreased $58.2 million. However, this decrease in net income was partially offset by a $22.8 million increase in non-cash adjustments, resulting in an overall decrease to cash provided by operating activities in 2022 as compared to 2021 of $35.4 million.
We are focused on continually improving our net income and cash flow from operations and management expects to continue to generate positive cash flows from operating activities for the foreseeable future.
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Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities was $53.7 million in 2022 which consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $87.2 million (driven primarily by investments in technological initiatives, supply chain centers and Company-owned store operations). In connection with the 2022 Store Sale, we refranchised 114 U.S. Company-owned stores for $41.1 million. Additionally, in connection with the 2022 Store Purchase, we acquired 23 U.S. franchised stores from certain of our U.S. franchisees for $6.8 million.
Cash used in investing activities was $142.7 million in 2021 which consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $94.2 million (driven primarily by investments in technological initiatives, supply chain centers and Company-owned stores) and our investments in DPC Dash of $49.1 million.
Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities was $515.9 million in 2022. We repurchased and retired $293.7 million in shares of our common stock under our Board of Directors-approved share repurchase program and we also made dividend payments to our shareholders of $157.5 million. We borrowed and repaid $120.0 million under our 2021 Variable Funding Notes and also made $55.7 million in repayments on our long-term debt and finance lease obligations. We made $10.7 million of tax payments for restricted stock upon vesting and we also paid $1.6 million in financing costs associated with the issuance of our 2022 Variable Funding Notes. We also received proceeds from the exercise of stock options in 2022 of $3.3 million.
Cash used in financing activities was $522.8 million in 2021. We completed the 2021 Recapitalization and issued $1.9 billion under the 2021 Notes. We made $910.2 million of payments on our long-term debt (of which $291.0 million related to the repayment of outstanding principal under our 2017 Floating Rate Notes and $582.0 million related the repayment of outstanding principal under our 2017 Five-Year Notes in connection with the 2021 Recapitalization). We also repurchased and retired $1.32 billion in shares of our common stock under our Board of Directors-approved share repurchase program (including $1.0 billion under the ASR Agreement). We also made dividend payments to our shareholders of $139.4 million, paid $14.9 million in financing cost associated with our 2021 Recapitalization and made tax payments of $6.8 million for restricted stock upon vesting. These uses of cash were partially offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $19.7 million.
Impact of Inflation
Given the inflation rates in fiscal 2022, there have been and may continue to be increases in food costs and labor costs which have and could further impact our profitability and that of our franchisees and which could impact the opening of new U.S. and international franchised stores and adversely affect our operating results. Factors such as inflation, increased food costs, increased labor and employee health and benefit costs, increased rent costs and increased energy costs may adversely affect our operating costs and profitability and those of our franchisees and could result in menu price increases. The impact of inflation is described with respect to our market basket pricing to stores and our labor cost, in the discussion of supply chain revenues and gross margin, above. Severe increases in inflation could affect the global and U.S. economies and could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further discussion on the impact of commodities and other cost pressures is included above, as well as in Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
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SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
This Form 10-K includes various forward-looking statements about the Company within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”) that are based on current management expectations that involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. The following cautionary statements are being made pursuant to the provisions of the Act and with the intention of obtaining the benefits of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Act.
These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “should,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “approximately,” “potential,” “outlook” and similar terms and phrases that concern our strategy, plans or intentions, including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements address various matters including information concerning future results of operations and business strategy, the expected demand for future pizza delivery, our expectation that we will meet the terms of our agreement with our third-party supplier of pizza cheese, our belief that alternative third-party suppliers are available for our key ingredients in the event we are required to replace any of our supply partners, our intention to continue to enhance and grow online ordering, digital marketing and technological capabilities, our expectation that there will be no material environmental compliance-related capital expenditures, our plans to expand U.S. and international operations in many of the markets where we currently operate and in selected new markets, our expectation that the obligation for advertising fees payable to DNAF will remain in place for the foreseeable future, and the availability of our borrowings under the 2021 Variable Funding Notes and 2022 Variable Funding Notes for, among other things, funding working capital requirements, paying capital expenditures and funding other general corporate purposes, including payment of dividends.
Forward-looking statements relating to our anticipated profitability, estimates in same store sales growth, store growth and the growth of our U.S. and international business in general, ability to service our indebtedness, our future cash flows, our operating performance, trends in our business and other descriptions of future events reflect management’s expectations based upon currently available information and data. While we believe these expectations and projections are based on reasonable assumptions, such forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, including the risk factors listed under Item 1A. Risk Factors, as well as other cautionary language in this Form 10-K.
Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including but not limited to, the following:
•
our substantial increased indebtedness as a result of the 2021 Recapitalization, 2019 Recapitalization, 2018 Recapitalization, 2017 Recapitalization and 2015 Recapitalization and our ability to incur additional indebtedness or refinance or renegotiate key terms of that indebtedness in the future;
•
the impact a downgrade in our credit rating may have on our business, financial condition and results of operations;
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our future financial performance and our ability to pay principal and interest on our indebtedness;
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the strength of our brand, including our ability to compete in the U.S. and internationally in our intensely competitive industry, including the food service and food delivery markets;
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our ability to successfully implement our growth strategy;
•
labor shortages or changes in operating expenses resulting from increases in prices of food (particularly cheese), fuel and other commodity costs, labor, utilities, insurance, employee benefits and other operating costs or negative economic conditions;
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our ability to manage difficulties associated with or related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the effects of COVID-19 and related regulations and policies on our business and supply chain, including impacts on the availability of labor;
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the effectiveness of our advertising, operations and promotional initiatives;
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shortages, interruptions or disruptions in the supply or delivery of fresh food products and store equipment;
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the impact of social media and other consumer-oriented technologies on our business, brand and reputation;
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the impact of new or improved technologies and alternative methods of delivery on consumer behavior;
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•
new product, digital ordering and concept developments by us, and other food-industry competitors;
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our ability to maintain good relationships with and attract new franchisees and franchisees’ ability to successfully manage their operations without negatively impacting our royalty payments and fees or our brand’s reputation;
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our ability to successfully implement cost-saving strategies;
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our ability and that of our franchisees to successfully operate in the current and future credit environment;
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changes in the level of consumer spending given general economic conditions, including interest rates, energy prices and consumer confidence or negative economic conditions in general;
•
our ability and that of our franchisees to open new restaurants and keep existing restaurants in operation and maintain demand for new stores;
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the impact that widespread illness, health epidemics or general health concerns, severe weather conditions and natural disasters may have on our business and the economies of the countries where we operate;
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changes in foreign currency exchange rates;
•
changes in income tax rates;
•
our ability to retain or replace our executive officers and other key members of management and our ability to adequately staff our stores and supply chain centers with qualified personnel;
•
our ability to find and/or retain suitable real estate for our stores and supply chain centers;
•
changes in government legislation or regulation, including changes in laws and regulations regarding information privacy, payment methods and consumer protection and social media;
•
adverse legal judgments or settlements;
•
food-borne illness or contamination of products or food tampering or other events that may impact our reputation;
•
data breaches, power loss, technological failures, user error or other cyber risks threatening us or our franchisees;
•
the impact that environmental, social and governance matters may have on our business and reputation;
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the effect of war, terrorism, catastrophic events or climate change;
•
our ability to pay dividends and repurchase shares;
•
changes in consumer taste, spending and traffic patterns and demographic trends;
•
changes in accounting policies; and
•
adequacy of our insurance coverage.
In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this Form 10-K might not occur. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Form 10-K and should be evaluated with an understanding of their inherent uncertainty. Except as required under federal securities laws and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, we will not undertake, and specifically disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances arising after the date of this Form 10-K, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-K or that may be made elsewhere from time to time by, or on behalf of, us. All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements.
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FY 2022 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000950170-22-002426.
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Overview
Our fiscal year typically includes 52 weeks, comprised of three twelve-week quarters and one sixteen-week quarter. Every five or six years our fiscal year includes an extra (or 53rd) week in the fourth quarter. Fiscal 2021 and 2019 each consisted of 52 weeks and fiscal 2020 consisted of 53 weeks.
In this section, we discuss the results of our operations for the year ended January 2, 2022 compared to the year ended January 3, 2021. For a discussion of the year ended January 3, 2021 compared to the year ended December 29, 2019, please refer to Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 3, 2021.
Description of the Business
Domino’s is the largest pizza company in the world, with more than 18,800 locations in over 90 markets around the world as of January 2, 2022, and operates two distinct service models within its stores with a significant business in both delivery and carryout. Founded in 1960, our roots are in convenient pizza delivery, while a significant amount of our sales also come from carryout customers. Although we are a highly-recognized global brand, we focus on value while serving neighborhoods locally through our large network of franchise owners and Company-owned stores.
Our business model is straightforward: Domino’s stores handcraft and serve quality food at a competitive price, with easy ordering access and efficient service, enhanced by our technological innovations. Our hand-tossed dough is made fresh and distributed to stores around the world by us and our franchisees.
Domino’s generates revenues and earnings by charging royalties and fees to our independent franchisees. We also generate revenues and earnings by selling food, equipment and supplies to franchisees, primarily in the U.S. and Canada, and by operating a number of Company-owned stores in the U.S. Franchisees profit by selling pizza and other complementary items to their local customers. In our international markets, we generally grant geographical rights to the Domino’s Pizza brand to master franchisees. These master franchisees are charged with developing their geographical area, and they can profit by sub-franchising and selling food and equipment to those sub-franchisees, as well as by running pizza stores directly. We believe that everyone in the system can benefit, including the end consumer, who can feed their family conveniently and economically.
Our financial results are driven largely by retail sales at our franchise and Company-owned stores. Changes in retail sales are driven by changes in same store sales and store counts. We monitor both of these metrics very closely, as they directly impact our revenues and profits, and we strive to consistently increase both metrics. Retail sales drive royalty payments from franchisees, as well as Company-owned store and supply chain revenues. Retail sales are primarily impacted by the strength of the Domino’s Pizza brand, the results of our extensive advertising through various media channels, the impact of technological innovation and digital ordering, our ability to execute our strong and proven business model and the overall global economic environment.
Our business model can yield strong returns for our franchise owners and our Company-owned stores. It can also yield significant cash flow to us, through a consistent franchise royalty payment and supply chain revenue stream, with moderate capital expenditures. We have historically returned cash to shareholders through dividend payments and share repurchases since becoming a publicly-traded company in 2004. We believe we have a proven business model for success, which includes leading with technology, service and product innovation and leveraging our global scale, which has historically provided strong returns for our shareholders
Critical accounting estimates
The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires our management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, our management evaluates its estimates, including those related to long-lived assets, casualty insurance reserves and income taxes. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from those estimates, and changes in estimates could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition for any particular period.
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We believe that our most critical accounting estimates are:
Long-lived assets
We record long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and capitalized software, at cost. For acquisitions of franchise operations, we estimate the fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired based on physical inspection of assets, historical experience and other information available to us regarding the acquisition. We depreciate and amortize long-lived assets using useful lives determined by us based on historical experience and other information available to us. Our estimates of the useful lives of our long-lived assets have not changed during the periods presented. We evaluate the potential impairment of long-lived assets at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Our periodic evaluation is based on various analyses, including, on an annual basis, the projection of undiscounted cash flows. If we determine that the carrying amount of an asset (or asset group) may not be recoverable, we compare the net carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted net cash flows to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of that asset group. For Company-owned stores, we perform related impairment tests on an operating market basis, which we have determined to be the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of other cash flows. If the carrying amount of a long-lived asset exceeds the amount of the expected future undiscounted cash flows of that asset, we estimate the fair value of the asset. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the estimated fair value of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized, and the asset is written down to its estimated fair value.
We have not made any significant changes in the methodology used to project the future market cash flows of Company-owned stores during the years presented. Same store sales fluctuations and the rates at which operating costs will fluctuate in the future are key factors in determining projected cash flows used to evaluate recoverability of the related assets. If our same store sales significantly decline or if operating costs increase and we are unable to recover these costs, the carrying value of our Company-owned stores, by market, may be unrecoverable and we may be required to recognize an impairment charge. There were no triggering events in 2021, 2020 or 2019, and accordingly, we did not record any impairment losses on long-lived assets in 2021, 2020 and 2019.
Casualty insurance reserves
For certain periods prior to December 1998 and for periods after December 2001, we maintain insurance coverage for workers’ compensation, general liability and owned and non-owned auto liabilities. We are generally responsible for up to $2.0 million per occurrence under these retention programs for workers’ compensation and general liability, depending on policy year and line of coverage. We are generally responsible for up to between $500,000 and $5.5 million per occurrence under these retention programs for owned and non-owned automobile liabilities, depending on policy year and line of coverage. The related insurance reserves are based on undiscounted independent actuarial estimates, which are based on historical information along with assumptions about future events. There is inherent uncertainty in the ultimate cost for known claims under our insurance coverages, and for incidents that have occurred that will be subject to a claim, but have yet to be reported to us. Analyses of historical trends and actuarial valuation methods are utilized to estimate the ultimate claim costs for claims incurred as of the balance sheet date and for claims incurred but not yet reported. When estimating these liabilities, several factors are considered, including the severity, duration and frequency of claims, legal cost associated with claims, healthcare trends and projected inflation.
Our methodology for determining our exposure has remained consistent throughout the years presented. Management believes that the various assumptions developed, and actuarial methods used to determine our casualty insurance reserves are reasonable and provide meaningful data that management uses to make its best estimate of our exposure to these risks. Changes in assumptions for such factors as medical costs and legal actions, as well as changes in actual experience, could cause our estimates to change in the near term which could result in an increase or decrease in the related expense in future periods. A 10% change in our casualty insurance liability at January 2, 2022 would have affected our income before provision for income taxes by approximately $5.6 million in 2021. We had accruals for casualty insurance reserves of $56.5 million and $54.6 million at January 2, 2022 and January 3, 2021, respectively.
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Income taxes
The U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate was 21% in each of 2021, 2020 and 2019. Our Federal income tax provision calculated based on the Federal statutory rate was $131.4 million, $116.6 million and $101.4 million in 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. We measure deferred taxes using current enacted tax rates that will apply in the years in which we expect the temporary differences to be recovered or paid. Judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes, related reserves and deferred taxes. These include establishing a valuation allowance related to the ability to realize certain deferred tax assets, if necessary. On an ongoing basis, management will assess whether it remains more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized. Our accounting for deferred taxes represents our best estimate of future events. Except with respect to certain foreign tax credits and interest deductibility in separately filed states, our deferred tax assets assume that we will generate sufficient taxable income in specific tax jurisdictions, based on our estimates and assumptions. As of January 2, 2022 and January 3, 2021, we had total foreign tax credits of $10.2 million and $6.6 million, respectively, each of which were fully offset with a corresponding valuation allowance. We also had valuation allowances related to interest deductibility in separately filed states of $1.2 million and $1.0 million as of January 2, 2022 and January 3, 2021, respectively. We believe our remaining deferred tax assets will be realized. Changes in our current estimates due to unanticipated events could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
Fiscal 2021 Highlights
•
Global retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact (which includes total retail sales at Company-owned and franchised stores worldwide) increased 8.9% as compared to 2020. U.S. retail sales increased 4.3% and international retail sales, excluding foreign currency impact, increased 13.9% as compared to 2020.
•
Same store sales increased 3.5% in our U.S. stores and increased 8.0% in our international stores.
•
Our revenues increased 5.8%.
•
Our income from operations increased 7.5%.
•
Our net income increased 3.9%.
•
Our diluted earnings per share increased 9.3%.
•
The inclusion of the 53rd week in 2020 negatively impacted our results as compared to the prior year.
During 2021, we experienced global retail sales growth and U.S. and international same store sales growth. We believe our commitment to value, convenience, quality and new products continues to keep consumers engaged with the brand. We launched our newest side item in the U.S., Domino’s Oven-Baked Dips in three unique flavors including Cheesy Marinara, Five Cheese and Baked Apple to pair with our Domino’s Bread Twists.
Same store sales in the U.S. continue to be positively affected by changes in consumer ordering behavior observed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, but have been pressured in part in recent quarters due to labor shortages affecting store hours and staffing levels in many of our markets, as well as a waning in the level of economic stimulus activity in fiscal 2021 in the U.S. as compared to the prior year. Our strong international same store sales performance continued with 112 straight quarters of positive international same store sales. We also continued to experience sustained increases in retail sales during fiscal 2021 resulting from evolving consumer trends, as well as the reopening and resumption of normal store hours and operating procedures at certain of our international franchised stores that had been temporarily closed or affected by changes in operating procedures and store hours for portions of fiscal 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our U.S. and international same store sales results continue to be impacted by our fortressing strategy, which includes increasing store concentration in certain markets where we compete, as well as from aggressive competitive activity.
During 2021, we continued our global expansion with the opening of 1,204 net stores. We had 205 net stores open in the U.S. comprised of 214 store openings and 9 closures. We had 999 net stores open internationally comprised of 1,094 store openings and 95 closures.
We remained focused on improving the customer experience through our technology initiatives, including through our GPS delivery tracking technology, which allows customers to monitor the progress of their food, from the preparation stages to the time it is in the oven to the time it arrives at their doors. Additionally, we offer contactless carryout nationwide – via Domino’s Carside Delivery®, which customers can choose when placing a prepaid online order. Our emphasis on technological innovation helped the Domino’s system generate more than half of global retail sales from digital channels in 2021. Overall, we believe our global store growth, strong sales, emphasis on technology, operations and marketing initiatives have combined to strengthen our brand.
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Statistical Measures
The tables below outline certain statistical measures we utilize to analyze our performance. This historical data is not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for any future period.
Global Retail Sales Growth (excluding foreign currency impact)
Global retail sales growth (excluding foreign currency impact) is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Global retail sales growth refers to total worldwide retail sales at Company-owned and franchise stores. We believe global retail sales information is useful in analyzing revenues because franchisees pay royalties and, in the U.S., advertising fees that are based on a percentage of franchise retail sales. We review comparable industry global retail sales information to assess business trends and to track the growth of the Domino’s Pizza brand. In addition, supply chain revenues are directly impacted by changes in franchise retail sales in the U.S. and Canada. Retail sales for franchise stores are reported to us by our franchisees and are not included in our revenues. Global retail sales growth, excluding foreign currency impact, is calculated as the change of international local currency global retail sales against the comparable period of the prior year. Global retail sales growth in 2021 and 2020 reflect the impact of the 53rd week in 2020.
| 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. stores | +4.3% | +17.6% | +6.9% | ||||||||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) | +13.9% | +8.8% | +9.0% | ||||||||
| Total (excluding foreign currency impact) | +8.9% | +13.2% | +8.0% |
Same Store Sales Growth
Same store sales growth is a commonly used statistical measure in the quick-service restaurant industry that is important to understanding performance. Same store sales growth is calculated for a given period by including only sales from stores that also had sales in the comparable weeks of both years. International same store sales growth is calculated similarly to U.S. same store sales growth. Changes in international same store sales are reported on a constant dollar basis which reflects changes in international local currency sales. The 53rd week in fiscal 2020 had no impact on reported same store sales growth amounts.
| 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | (3.6)% | +11.0% | +2.8% | |||
| U.S. franchise stores | +3.9% | +11.5% | +3.2% | |||
| U.S. stores | +3.5% | +11.5% | +3.2% | |||
| International stores (excluding foreign currency impact) | +8.0% | +4.4% | +1.9% |
Store Growth Activity
Store counts and net store growth are commonly used statistical measures in the quick-service restaurant industry that are important to understanding performance.
| U.S. Company- owned Stores | U.S. Franchise Stores | Total U.S. Stores | International Stores | Total | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Store count at December 30, 2018 | 390 | 5,486 | 5,876 | 10,038 | 15,914 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 12 | 253 | 265 | 939 | 1,204 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (14 | ) | (15 | ) | (83 | ) | (98 | ) | ||||||||||
| Transfers | (59 | ) | 59 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Store count at December 29, 2019 | 342 | 5,784 | 6,126 | 10,894 | 17,020 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 22 | 218 | 240 | 718 | 958 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (10 | ) | (11 | ) | (323 | ) | (334 | ) | ||||||||||
| Store count at January 3, 2021 | 363 | 5,992 | 6,355 | 11,289 | 17,644 | |||||||||||||||
| Openings | 13 | 201 | 214 | 1,094 | 1,308 | |||||||||||||||
| Closings | (1 | ) | (8 | ) | (9 | ) | (95 | ) | (104 | ) | ||||||||||
| Store count at January 2, 2022 | 375 | 6,185 | 6,560 | 12,288 | 18,848 |
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Income Statement Data
(tabular amounts in millions, except percentages)
| 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 479.0 | $ | 485.6 | $ | 453.6 | ||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 539.9 | 503.2 | 428.5 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,561.0 | 2,416.7 | 2,104.9 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| International franchise royalties and fees | 298.0 | 249.8 | 241.0 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 479.5 | 462.2 | 390.8 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total revenues | 4,357.4 | 100.0 | % | 4,117.4 | 100.0 | % | 3,618.8 | 100.0 | % | |||||||||||||||
| U.S. Company-owned stores | 374.1 | 379.6 | 346.2 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Supply chain | 2,295.0 | 2,143.3 | 1,870.1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total cost of sales | 2,669.1 | 61.3 | % | 2,522.9 | 61.3 | % | 2,216.3 | 61.2 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Operating margin | 1,688.2 | 38.7 | % | 1,594.5 | 38.7 | % | 1,402.5 | 38.8 | % | |||||||||||||||
| General and administrative | 428.3 | 9.8 | % | 406.6 | 9.9 | % | 382.3 | 10.6 | % | |||||||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 479.5 | 11.0 | % | 462.2 | 11.2 | % | 390.8 | 10.8 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Income from operations | 780.4 | 17.9 | % | 725.6 | 17.6 | % | 629.4 | 17.4 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Other income | 36.8 | 0.8 | % | — | 0.0 | % | — | 0.0 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Interest expense, net | (191.5 | ) | (4.3 | )% | (170.5 | ) | (4.1 | )% | (146.8 | ) | (4.1 | )% | ||||||||||||
| Income before provision for income taxes | 625.7 | 14.4 | % | 555.1 | 13.5 | % | 482.6 | 13.3 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | 115.2 | 2.7 | % | 63.8 | 1.6 | % | 81.9 | 2.3 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 510.5 | 11.7 | % | $ | 491.3 | 11.9 | % | $ | 400.7 | 11.1 | % |
2021 compared to 2020
(tabular amounts in millions, except percentages)
Revenues
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 479.0 | 11.0 | % | $ | 485.6 | 11.8 | % | ||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 539.9 | 12.4 | % | 503.2 | 12.2 | % | ||||||||||
| Supply Chain | 2,561.0 | 58.8 | % | 2,416.7 | 58.7 | % | ||||||||||
| International franchise royalties and fees | 298.0 | 6.8 | % | 249.8 | 6.1 | % | ||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 479.5 | 11.0 | % | 462.2 | 11.2 | % | ||||||||||
| Total revenues | $ | 4,357.4 | 100.0 | % | $ | 4,117.4 | 100.0 | % |
Revenues primarily consist of retail sales from our Company-owned stores, royalties and fees and advertising contributions from our U.S. franchised stores, royalties and fees from our international franchised stores and sales of food, equipment and supplies from our supply chain centers to substantially all of our U.S. franchised stores and certain international franchised stores. Company-owned store and franchised store revenues may vary from period to period due to changes in store count mix. Supply chain revenues may vary significantly as a result of fluctuations in commodity prices as well as the mix of products we sell.
Consolidated revenues increased $240.0 million, or 5.8%, in 2021 due primarily to higher global retail sales, which resulted in higher supply chain revenues, international franchise royalties and fees, U.S. franchise royalties and fees, and U.S. franchise advertising revenues. These increases were partially offset by the inclusion of the 53rd week in 2020 which positively impacted revenues in 2020 by an estimated $88.4 million. These changes in revenues are described in more detail below.
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U.S. Stores Revenues
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Company-owned stores | $ | 479.0 | 32.0 | % | $ | 485.6 | 33.4 | % | ||||||||
| U.S. franchise royalties and fees | 539.9 | 36.0 | % | 503.2 | 34.7 | % | ||||||||||
| U.S. franchise advertising | 479.5 | 32.0 | % | 462.2 | 31.9 | % | ||||||||||
| Total U.S. stores revenues | $ | 1,498.4 | 100.0 | % | $ | 1,451.0 | 100.0 | % |
U.S. Company-owned Stores
Revenues from U.S. Company-owned store operations decreased $6.6 million, or 1.4%, in 2021 due primarily to an estimated $10.6 million impact of the 53rd week in fiscal 2020, as well as a decrease in U.S. Company-owned same store sales. U.S. Company-owned same store sales declined 3.6% in 2021 and increased 11.0% in 2020. These decreases in 2021 were partially offset by an increase in the average number of U.S. Company-owned stores open during the period resulting from net store growth.
U.S. Franchise Royalties and Fees
Revenues from U.S. franchise royalties and fees increased $36.7 million, or 7.3%, in 2021, due primarily to higher same store sales and an increase in the average number of U.S. franchised stores open during the period resulting from net store growth. Revenues were also benefited by approximately $3.0 million related to funding we provided to our franchisees for an effort to donate 10 million slices of pizza to people and organizations at the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic in the franchisees’ local communities during 2020 which did not recur in 2021. U.S. franchise same store sales increased 3.9% in 2021 and increased 11.5% in 2020. U.S. franchise royalties and fees further benefited from an increase in revenues from fees paid by franchisees for the use of our technology platforms. These increases were partially offset by an estimated $11.4 million impact of the 53rd week in fiscal 2020.
U.S. Franchise Advertising
Revenues from U.S. franchise advertising increased $17.3 million, or 3.7%, in 2021 due primarily to higher same store sales and an increase in the average number of U.S. franchised stores open during the year resulting from net store growth. These increases were partially offset by an estimated $10.4 million impact of the 53rd week in fiscal 2020 as well as approximately $9.3 million in advertising incentives related to the Domino’s Surprise FreesTM promotion in 2021.
Supply Chain
Supply chain revenues increased $144.3 million or 6.0% in 2021 due primarily to higher volumes resulting from retail sales growth. Our market basket pricing to stores increased 3.3% during 2021, which resulted in an estimated $66.3 million increase in supply chain revenues. These increases were partially offset by an estimated $49.6 million impact of the 53rd week in fiscal 2020.
International Franchise Royalties and Fees
Revenues from international franchise operations increased $48.3 million, or 19.3%, in 2021 due primarily to higher retail sales resulting from same store sales growth and an increase in the average number of international franchised stores open during the period resulting from net store growth. The reopening and resumption of normal store hours and operating procedures at certain of the Company’s international franchised stores that had been temporarily closed or affected by changes in operating procedures and store hours for portions of 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to the increase in revenues. Excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rates, international same store sales increased 8.0% in 2021 and increased 4.4% in 2020. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates positively impacted revenue from international royalties and fees by approximately $4.9 million in 2021. These increases were partially offset by an estimated $6.4 million impact of the 53rd week in fiscal 2020.
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Cost of sales / Operating Margin
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Consolidated revenues | $ | 4,357.4 | 100.0 | % | $ | 4,117.4 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Consolidated cost of sales | 2,669.1 | 61.3 | % | 2,522.9 | 61.3 | % | ||||||||||
| Consolidated operating margin | $ | 1,688.2 | 38.7 | % | $ | 1,594.5 | 38.7 | % |
Consolidated cost of sales consists primarily of U.S. Company-owned store and supply chain costs incurred to generate related revenues. Components of consolidated cost of sales primarily include food, labor, delivery and occupancy costs. We estimate that the 53rd week resulted in an increase of approximately $50.6 million to consolidated cost of sales in fiscal 2020.
Consolidated operating margin (which we define as revenues less cost of sales) increased $93.7 million, or 5.9%, in 2021 due primarily to higher global franchise revenues and higher supply chain volumes. Franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on the operating margin. These increases were partially offset by an estimated $37.8 million impact on consolidated operating margin related to the 53rd week in fiscal 2020.
As a percentage of revenues, the consolidated operating margin was flat at 38.7% in 2021 and 2020. Company-owned store operating margin increased 0.1 percentage points in 2021 and supply chain operating margin decreased 0.9 percentage points in 2021. These changes in operating margin are described in more detail below.
U.S. Company-owned Stores Operating Margin
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 479.0 | 100.0 | % | $ | 485.6 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of sales | 374.1 | 78.1 | % | 379.6 | 78.2 | % | ||||||||||
| Store operating margin | $ | 104.9 | 21.9 | % | $ | 106.0 | 21.8 | % |
U.S. Company-owned store operating margin (which does not include other store-level costs such as royalties and advertising) decreased $1.1 million, or 1.0%, in 2021 due primarily to lower same store sales, as well an estimated $3.2 million impact of the 53rd week in 2020. Higher food and occupancy costs also contributed to the decrease in U.S. Company-owned store operating margin. These decreases were partially offset by lower labor costs. As a percentage of store revenues, the store operating margin increased 0.1 percentage points in 2021. These changes in operating margin as a percentage of revenues are discussed in more detail below.
•
Labor costs decreased 1.9 percentage points to 29.0% in 2021 due primarily to additional bonus pay incurred during 2020 for frontline team members, as well as lower team member headcount in 2021. These decreases in labor costs were partially offset by continued investments in frontline team member wage rates in our U.S. Company-owned stores in 2021.
•
Food costs increased 1.1 percentage points to 28.1% in 2021, due to higher food basket prices.
•
Occupancy costs, which include rent, telephone, utilities and depreciation, increased 0.6 percentage points to 8.0% in 2021 due primarily to lower sales leverage.
Supply Chain Operating Margin
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 2,561.0 | 100.0 | % | $ | 2,416.7 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of sales | 2,295.0 | 89.6 | % | 2,143.3 | 88.7 | % | ||||||||||
| Supply chain operating margin | $ | 266.0 | 10.4 | % | $ | 273.3 | 11.3 | % |
Supply chain operating margin decreased $7.4 million, or 2.7%, in 2021 due primarily to an estimated $6.4 million impact of the 53rd week in 2020, as well as higher labor and delivery costs. These decreases were partially offset by higher volumes. As a percentage of supply chain revenues, the supply chain operating margin decreased 0.9 percentage points in 2021, due primarily to higher labor and delivery costs.
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General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses increased $21.7 million, or 5.3%, in 2021 driven primarily by higher labor costs, including non-cash equity-based compensation expense. Higher travel and event costs also contributed to the increase in general and administrative expenses. These increases were partially offset by lower professional fees and an estimated $5.6 million impact of the 53rd week in 2020.
U.S. Franchise Advertising Expenses
U.S. franchise advertising expenses increased $17.3 million, or 3.7%, in 2021 due to higher U.S. franchise advertising revenues as discussed above. This increase was partially offset by an estimated $10.4 million impact of the 53rd week in 2020. U.S. franchise advertising costs are accrued and expensed when the related U.S. franchise advertising revenues are recognized, as our consolidated not-for-profit advertising fund is obligated to expend such revenues on advertising and other activities to promote the Domino’s brand and these revenues cannot be used for general corporate purposes.
Other Income
Other income was $36.8 million in 2021, representing the unrealized gains recorded on the Company’s investment in DPC Dash resulting from the observable changes in price from the valuation of the Company’s additional $40.0 million investment made in the first quarter of 2021 and the additional $9.1 million investment made in the fourth quarter of 2021.
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net, increased $20.9 million, or 12.3%, in 2021 driven primarily by higher average borrowings resulting from the 2021 Recapitalization. In connection with the 2021 Recapitalization, we recorded $2.3 million of incremental interest expense in the second quarter of 2021, primarily representing the expense for $2.0 million of the remaining unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the 2017 Five-Year Fixed Rate Notes and 2017 Floating Rate Notes (each defined in the "2017 Recapitalization" section, below), and $0.3 million of additional interest expense incurred on the 2017 Five-Year Fixed Rate Notes and 2017 Floating Rate Notes subsequent to the closing of the 2021 Recapitalization but prior to the repayment of the 2017 Five-Year Fixed Rate Notes and 2017 Floating Rate Notes, resulting in the payment of interest on both the 2017 Five-Year Fixed Rate Notes and 2017 Floating Rate Notes and the 2021 Notes (as defined in the “2021 Recapitalization” section, below) for a short period of time. This increase was partially offset by an estimated $2.6 million impact of the 53rd week in 2020.
Our weighted average borrowing rate decreased to 3.8% in 2021, from 3.9% in 2020, resulting from the lower interest rates on the debt outstanding in 2021 as compared to the same periods in 2020.
Provision for Income Taxes
Provision for income taxes increased $51.4 million, or 80.5%, in 2021 and the effective tax rate increased to 18.4% in 2021 as compared to 11.5% in 2020 due primarily to lower excess tax benefits on equity-based compensation, which are recorded as a reduction to the income tax provision. Excess tax benefits from equity-based compensation were $18.9 million in 2021 and were $60.4 million in 2020. The decrease in excess tax benefits resulted from a significant decrease in stock options exercised in 2021 as compared to 2020. Higher pre-tax income also resulted in an increase in the provision for income taxes. These increases were partially offset by an estimated $4.0 million related to the 53rd week of 2020.
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Segment Income
We evaluate the performance of our reportable segments and allocate resources to them based on earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and other, referred to as Segment Income. Segment Income for each of our reportable segments is summarized in the table below. Other Segment Income primarily includes corporate administrative costs that are not allocable to a reportable segment, including labor, computer expenses, professional fees, travel and entertainment, rent, insurance and other corporate administrative costs.
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Stores | $ | 454.9 | $ | 435.1 | ||||
| Supply Chain | 229.9 | 238.4 | ||||||
| International Franchise | 241.9 | 197.6 | ||||||
| Other | (42.9 | ) | (53.3 | ) |
U.S. Stores
U.S. stores Segment Income increased $19.8 million, or 4.5%, in 2021, primarily as a result of the increase in revenues from U.S. franchise royalties and fees of $36.7 million discussed above. U.S. franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on U.S. stores Segment Income. U.S. franchise advertising costs are accrued and expensed when the related U.S. franchise advertising revenues are recognized and had no impact on U.S. stores Segment Income. The increase in U.S. stores Segment Income was partially offset by increased investments in technological initiatives as well as the $1.1 million decrease in U.S. Company-owned store operating margin discussed above.
Supply Chain
Supply chain Segment Income decreased $8.5 million, or 3.6%, in 2021 due primarily to the $7.4 million decrease in supply chain operating margin described above.
International Franchise
International franchise Segment Income increased $44.3 million, or 22.4%, in 2021 due primarily to the $48.3 million increase in international franchise revenues discussed above. International franchise revenues do not have a cost of sales component, so changes in these revenues have a disproportionate effect on international franchise Segment Income. The increase in international franchise Segment Income driven by higher revenues was partially offset by increased investments in technological initiatives.
Other
Other Segment Income increased $10.3 million, or 19.4%, in 2021 due primarily to higher corporate administrative costs allocated to our segments as compared to 2020. The increase in allocated costs in 2021 was due primarily to higher investments in technological initiatives to support technology for our U.S. and international franchise stores. Lower professional fees also contributed to the increase in other segment income. These increases were partially offset by higher labor and travel costs.
New Accounting Pronouncements
The impact of new accounting pronouncements adopted and the estimated impact of new accounting pronouncements that we will adopt in future years is included in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements.
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COVID-19 Impact
As of January 2, 2022, nearly all of our U.S. stores were open, with stores deploying contactless delivery and carryout solutions. Based on information reported to us by our master franchisees, we estimate that as of January 2, 2022, there were fewer than 50 international stores temporarily closed.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we made certain investments related to safety and cleaning equipment, enhanced sick pay and compensation for frontline team members and support for our franchisees and their communities. While we have seen an increase in sales in certain markets during the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased sales related to heightened reliance on delivery and carryout businesses, future sales are not possible to estimate and it is unclear whether and to what extent sales will return to more normalized levels if and when consumer behavior and general economic and business activity return to pre-pandemic levels. While it is not possible at this time to estimate the full continued impact that COVID-19 could have on our business, the continued spread of COVID-19 and the measures taken by the governments of countries affected could disrupt our continuing operations and supply chain and, as a result, could adversely impact our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Historically, our receivable collection periods and inventory turn rates are faster than the normal payment terms on our current liabilities resulting in efficient deployment of working capital. We generally collect our receivables within three weeks from the date of the related sale and we generally experience multiple inventory turns per month. In addition, our sales are not typically seasonal, which further limits variations in our working capital requirements. These factors allow us to manage our working capital and our ongoing cash flows from operations to invest in our business and other strategic opportunities, pay dividends and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock. As of January 2, 2022, we had working capital of $82.1 million, excluding restricted cash and cash equivalents of $180.6 million, advertising fund assets, restricted, of $180.9 million and advertising fund liabilities of $173.7 million. Working capital includes total unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $148.2 million.
Our primary source of liquidity is cash flows from operations and availability of borrowings under our variable funding notes. During 2021, we experienced increases in both U.S. and international same store sales versus the comparable periods in the prior year. Additionally, our U.S. and international businesses grew store counts in 2021. These factors contributed to our continued ability to generate positive operating cash flows. The Company has a variable funding note facility which allows for advances of up to $200.0 million of 2021 Variable Funding Notes (defined in the “2021 Recapitalization” section, below). The letters of credit are primarily related to our casualty insurance programs and certain supply chain center leases. As of January 2, 2022, we had no outstanding borrowings and $155.8 million of available borrowing capacity under our 2021 Variable Funding Notes, net of letters of credit issued of $44.2 million.
We expect to continue to use our unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, cash flows from operations, excess cash from our recapitalization transactions and available borrowings under our 2021 Variable Funding Notes to, among other things, fund working capital requirements, invest in our core business and other strategic opportunities, pay dividends and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock.
Our ability to continue to fund these items and continue to service our debt could be adversely affected by the occurrence of any of the events described in Item 1A. Risk Factors. There can be no assurance that our business will generate sufficient cash flows from operations or that future borrowings will be available under the 2021 Variable Funding Notes or otherwise to enable us to service our indebtedness, or to make anticipated capital expenditures. Our future operating performance and our ability to service, extend or refinance the 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2015 Notes and to service, extend or refinance the 2021 Variable Funding Notes will be subject to future economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our control.
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Restricted Cash
As of January 2, 2022, we had $133.2 million of restricted cash and cash equivalents held for future principal and interest payments and other working capital requirements of our asset-backed securitization structure, $47.2 million of restricted cash equivalents held in a three-month interest reserve as required by the related debt agreements and $0.2 million of other restricted cash for a total of $180.6 million of restricted cash and cash equivalents. As of January 2, 2022, we also held $161.7 million of advertising fund restricted cash and cash equivalents, which can only be used for activities that promote the Domino’s brand.
Long-Term Debt
2021 Recapitalization
On April 16, 2021, we completed the 2021 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consist of $850.0 million Series 2021-1 2.662% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of 7.5 years (the “2021 7.5-Year Notes”) and $1.0 billion Series 2021-1 3.151% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2021 Ten-Year Notes”, and, collectively with the 2021 7.5-Year Notes, the “2021 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2021 Notes were $1.85 billion.
Concurrently, certain of our subsidiaries also issued a new variable funding note facility which allows for advances of up to $200.0 million of Series 2021-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 Notes and certain other credit instruments, including letters of credit (the “2021 Variable Funding Notes”). In connection with the issuance of the 2021 Variable Funding Notes, our 2019 variable funding notes were canceled.
The proceeds from the 2021 Recapitalization was used to repay the remaining $291.0 million in outstanding principal under our 2017 Floating Rate Notes and $582.0 million in outstanding principal under our 2017 Five-Year Fixed Rate Notes, prefund a portion of the interest payable on the 2021 Notes, pay transaction fees and expenses and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock. Additional information related to the 2021 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2019 Recapitalization
On November 19, 2019, we completed the 2019 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued $675.0 million Series 2019-1 3.668% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2 with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2019 Notes”) pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. Concurrently, we also issued the 2019 variable funding notes. Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2019 Notes was $675.0 million. Additional information related to the 2019 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
The proceeds from the 2019 Recapitalization were used to prefund a portion of the principal and interest payable on the 2019 Notes, pay transaction fees and expenses and repurchase and retire shares of our common stock. In connection with the 2019 Recapitalization, we capitalized $8.1 million of debt issuance costs, which are being amortized into interest expense over the expected term of the 2019 Notes.
2018 Recapitalization
On April 24, 2018, we completed the 2018 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consist of $425.0 million Series 2018-1 4.116% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of 7.5 years (the “2018 7.5-Year Notes”), and $400.0 million Series 2018-1 4.328% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of 9.25 years (the “2018 9.25-Year Notes” and, collectively with the 2018 7.5-Year Notes, the “2018 Notes”) in an offering exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2018 Notes were $825.0 million. Additional information related to the 2018 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
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2017 Recapitalization
On July 24, 2017, we completed the 2017 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consisted of $300.0 million Series 2017-1 Floating Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I with an anticipated term of five years (the “2017 Floating Rate Notes”), $600.0 million Series 2017-1 3.082% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II with an anticipated term of five years (the “2017 Five-Year Fixed Rate Notes”), and $1.0 billion Series 2017-1 4.118% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-III with an anticipated term of 10 years (the “2017 Ten-Year Fixed Rate Notes” and, collectively with the 2017 Floating Rate Notes and the 2017 Five-Year Fixed Rate Notes, the “2017 Notes”). The interest rate on the 2017 Floating Rate Notes was payable at a rate equal to LIBOR plus 125 basis points. Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2017 Notes were $1.9 billion. The 2017 Floating Rate Notes and the 2017 Five-Year Fixed Rate Notes were repaid in connection with the 2021 Recapitalization. Additional information related to the 2017 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2015 Recapitalization
On October 21, 2015, we completed the 2015 Recapitalization in which certain of our subsidiaries issued notes pursuant to an asset-backed securitization. The notes consisted of $500.0 million of Series 2015-1 3.484% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-I (the “2015 Five-Year Notes”), $800.0 million Series 2015-1 4.474% Fixed Rate Senior Secured Notes, Class A-2-II (the “2015 Ten-Year Notes” and collectively with the 2015 Five-Year Notes, the “2015 Notes”). Gross proceeds from the issuance of the 2015 Notes were $1.3 billion. The 2015 Five-Year Notes were repaid in connection with the 2018 Recapitalization. Additional information related to the 2015 Recapitalization is included in Note 3 to our consolidated financial statements.
2021, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2015 Notes
The 2021 Notes, 2019 Notes, 2018 Notes, 2017 Notes and the 2015 Notes are collectively referred to as the "Notes."
The Notes have original scheduled principal payments of $51.5 million in each of 2022, 2023 and 2024, $1.17 billion in 2025, $39.3 million in 2026, $1.31 billion in 2027, $811.5 million in 2028, $625.9 million in 2029, $10.0 million in 2030 and $905.0 million in 2031. However, in accordance with our debt agreements, the payment of principal on the outstanding senior notes may be suspended if our leverage ratio is less than or equal to 5.0x total debt, as defined, to adjusted EBITDA, as defined, and no catch-up provisions are applicable.
As of the fourth quarter of 2020, we had a leverage ratio of less than 5.0x, and accordingly, did not make the previously scheduled debt amortization payment beginning in the first quarter of 2021. Accordingly, all principal amounts of the then outstanding Notes were classified as long-term debt in the consolidated balance sheet as of January 3, 2021. Subsequent to the closing of the 2021 Recapitalization, the Company had a leverage ratio of greater than 5.0x and, accordingly, the Company resumed making the scheduled amortization payments in the second quarter of 2021.
The Notes are subject to certain financial and non-financial covenants, including a debt service coverage ratio calculation. The covenant requires a minimum coverage ratio of 1.75x total debt service to securitized net cash flow, as defined in the related agreements. In the event that certain covenants are not met, the Notes may become due and payable on an accelerated schedule.
Leases
We lease certain retail store and supply chain center locations, supply chain vehicles, various equipment and our World Resource Center under leases with expiration dates through 2041. Refer to Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our leases, including future minimum rental commitments.
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Capital Expenditures
In the past three years, we have spent approximately $268.5 million on capital expenditures. In 2021, we spent $94.2 million on capital expenditures which primarily related to investments in our technology initiatives, including our proprietary internally developed point-of-sale system (Domino’s PULSE), our internal enterprise systems and our digital ordering platform, our supply chain centers, new Company-owned stores and asset upgrades for our existing Company-owned stores and other assets. We did not have any material commitments for capital expenditures as of January 2, 2022.
Investments
During the second quarter of 2020, we acquired a non-controlling interest in DPC Dash (formerly Dash Brands Ltd.), a privately-held company limited by shares incorporated with limited liability under the laws of the British Virgin Islands, for $40.0 million. Through its subsidiaries, DPC Dash serves as the Company’s master franchisee in China that owns and operates Domino’s Pizza stores in that market. Our investment in DPC Dash’s senior ordinary shares, which are not in-substance common stock, represents an equity investment without a readily determinable fair value and is recorded at cost with adjustments for observable changes in prices resulting from orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer or impairments.
In the first quarter of 2021, we invested an additional $40.0 million in DPC Dash based on DPC Dash’s achievement of certain pre-established performance conditions and recorded a positive adjustment of $2.5 million to the original carrying amount of $40.0 million resulting from the observable change in price from the valuation of the additional investment, resulting in a net carrying amount of $82.5 million as of the end of the first quarter of 2021. We did not record any adjustments to the carrying amount of $82.5 million in the second or third quarter of 2021. In the fourth quarter of 2021, we invested an additional $9.1 million in DPC Dash and recorded a positive adjustment of $34.3 million to the carrying amount of $82.5 million resulting from the observable change in price from the valuation of the additional investment.
Share Repurchase Programs
Our share repurchase programs have historically been funded by excess operating cash flows, excess proceeds from our recapitalization transactions and borrowings under our variable funding notes. We used cash of $1.32 billion in 2021, $304.6 million in 2020 and $699.0 million in 2019 for share repurchases.
On October 4, 2019, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of the Company’s common stock. On February 24, 2021, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of the Company's common stock, which was fully utilized in connection with the ASR Agreement, described below. On April 30, 2021, we entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement with a counterparty (the “ASR Agreement”). Pursuant to the terms of the ASR Agreement, on May 3, 2021, we used a portion of the proceeds from the 2021 Recapitalization to pay the counterparty $1.0 billion in cash and received and retired 2,012,596 shares of our common stock. Final settlement of the ASR Agreement occurred on July 21, 2021. In connection with the ASR Agreement, we received and retired a total of 2,250,786 shares of our common stock at an average price of $444.29, including the 2,012,596 shares of our common stock received and retired during the second quarter of 2021. On July 20, 2021, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program to repurchase up to $1.0 billion of our common stock. This repurchase program replaced our previously approved $1.0 billion share repurchase program, which was fully utilized in connection with the ASR Agreement.
We had $704.1 million remaining under this share repurchase authorization as of January 2, 2022. Subsequent to the end of fiscal 2021, we repurchased and retired an additional 100,810 shares of common stock for $47.7 million.
Dividends
We declared dividends of $139.6 million (or $3.76 per share) in 2021, $122.2 million (or $3.12 per share) in 2020 and $105.6 million (or $2.60 per share) in 2019. We paid dividends of $139.4 million, $121.9 million and $105.7 million in 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
On February 24, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $1.10 per common share payable on March 30, 2022 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 15, 2022.
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Sources and Uses of Cash
The following table illustrates the main components of our cash flows:
| Fiscal Year Ended | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In millions) | January 2, 2022 | January 3, 2021 | ||||||
| Cash flows provided by (used in) | ||||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 654.2 | $ | 592.8 | ||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (142.7 | ) | (128.9 | ) | ||||
| Net cash used in financing activities | (522.8 | ) | (446.4 | ) | ||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash | (0.3 | ) | 0.8 | |||||
| Change in cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and cash equivalents | $ | (11.7 | ) | $ | 18.2 |
Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities increased $61.4 million in 2021 primarily due to the positive impact of changes in operating assets and liabilities of $63.9 million. The positive impact of changes in operating assets and liabilities related to the timing of collections on accounts receivable, payments on accounts payable and accrued liabilities and income tax payments in 2021 as compared to 2020. The increase in cash provided by operating activities was also due to a $16.4 million positive impact of changes in advertising fund assets and liabilities, restricted, in 2021 as compared to 2020 due to the receipt of advertising contributions outpacing payments for advertising activities. Additionally, while net income increased $19.2 million, this was comprised of a $38.2 million increase in non-cash transactions, resulting in an overall decrease to cash provided by operating activities in 2021 as compared to 2020 of $18.9 million.
We are focused on continually improving our net income and cash flow from operations and management expects to continue to generate positive cash flows from operating activities for the foreseeable future.
Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities was $142.7 million in 2021 which consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $94.2 million (driven primarily by investments in technological initiatives, supply chain centers and Company-owned stores) and our investments in DPC Dash of $49.1 million.
Cash used in investing activities was $128.9 million in 2020, which consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $88.8 million (driven primarily by investments in supply chain centers, technological initiatives and Company-owned stores) and our investment in DPC Dash of $40.0 million.
Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities was $522.8 million in 2021. We completed the 2021 Recapitalization and issued $1.85 billion under the 2021 Notes. We made $910.2 million of payments on our long-term debt (of which $291.0 million related to the repayment of outstanding principal under our 2017 Floating Rate Notes and $582.0 million related the repayment of outstanding principal under our 2017 Five-Year Fixed Rate Notes in connection with the 2021 Recapitalization). We also repurchased and retired $1.32 billion in shares of our common stock under our Board of Directors-approved share repurchase program (including $1.0 billion under the ASR Agreement). We also made dividend payments to our shareholders of $139.4 million, paid $14.9 million in financing cost associated with our 2021 Recapitalization and made tax payments for restricted stock upon vesting of $6.8 million. These uses of cash were partially offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $19.7 million.
Cash used in financing activities was $446.4 million in 2020. We borrowed $158.0 million under our 2019 variable funding note facility and repaid $202.1 million of long-term debt (of which $158.0 million related to the repayment of borrowings under our 2019 variable funding notes). We also repurchased $304.6 million in common stock under our Board of Directors-approved share repurchase program, made dividend payments to our shareholders of $121.9 million and made tax payments for restricted stock upon vesting of $6.8 million. These uses of cash were partially offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $31.0 million.
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Impact of Inflation
Given the inflation rates in fiscal 2021, there have been and may continue to be increases in food costs and labor costs which have and could further impact our profitability and that of our franchisees and which could impact the opening of new U.S. and international franchised stores and adversely affect our operating results. Factors such as inflation, increased food costs, increased labor and employee health and benefit costs, increased rent costs and increased energy costs may adversely affect our operating costs and profitability and those of our franchisees and could result in menu price increases. The impact of inflation is described with respect to our market basket pricing to stores and our labor cost, in the discussion of supply chain revenues and operating margin, above. Severe increases in inflation could affect the global and U.S. economies and could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further discussion on the impact of commodities and other cost pressures is included above, as well as in Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
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SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
This Form 10-K includes various forward-looking statements about the Company within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”) that are based on current management expectations that involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. The following cautionary statements are being made pursuant to the provisions of the Act and with the intention of obtaining the benefits of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Act.
These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “should,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “approximately,” “potential,” “outlook” and similar terms and phrases that concern our strategy, plans or intentions, including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements address various matters including information concerning future results of operations and business strategy, the expected demand for future pizza delivery, our expectation that we will meet the terms of our agreement with our third-party supplier of pizza cheese, our belief that alternative third-party suppliers are available for our key ingredients in the event we are required to replace any of our supply partners, our intention to continue to enhance and grow online ordering, digital marketing and technological capabilities, our expectation that there will be no material environmental compliance-related capital expenditures, our plans to expand U.S. and international operations in many of the markets where we currently operate and in selected new markets, our expectation that the contribution rate for advertising fees payable to DNAF will remain in place for the foreseeable future, and the availability of our borrowings under the 2021 Variable Funding Notes for, among other things, funding working capital requirements, paying capital expenditures and funding other general corporate purposes, including payment of dividends.
Forward-looking statements relating to our anticipated profitability, estimates in same store sales growth, the growth of our U.S. and international business, ability to service our indebtedness, our future cash flows, our operating performance, trends in our business and other descriptions of future events reflect management’s expectations based upon currently available information and data. While we believe these expectations and projections are based on reasonable assumptions, such forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, including the risk factors listed under Item 1A. Risk Factors, as well as other cautionary language in this Form 10-K.
Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including but not limited to, the following:
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our substantial increased indebtedness as a result of the 2021 Recapitalization, 2019 Recapitalization, 2018 Recapitalization, 2017 Recapitalization and 2015 Recapitalization and our ability to incur additional indebtedness or refinance or renegotiate key terms of that indebtedness in the future;
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the impact a downgrade in our credit rating may have on our business, financial condition and results of operations;
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our future financial performance and our ability to pay principal and interest on our indebtedness;
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our ability to manage difficulties associated with or related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the effects of COVID-19 and related regulations and policies on our business and supply chain, including impacts on the availability of labor;
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labor shortages or changes in operating expenses resulting from changes in prices of food (particularly cheese), fuel and other commodity costs, labor, utilities, insurance, employee benefits and other operating costs;
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the effectiveness of our advertising, operations and promotional initiatives;
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shortages, interruptions or disruptions in the supply or delivery of fresh food products and store equipment;
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the strength of our brand, including our ability to compete in the U.S. and internationally in our intensely competitive industry, including the food service and food delivery markets;
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the impact of social media and other consumer-oriented technologies on our business, brand and reputation;
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the impact of new or improved technologies and alternative methods of delivery on consumer behavior;
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new product, digital ordering and concept developments by us, and other food-industry competitors;
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our ability to maintain good relationships with and attract new franchisees and franchisees’ ability to successfully manage their operations without negatively impacting our royalty payments and fees or our brand’s reputation;
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our ability to successfully implement cost-saving strategies;
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our ability and that of our franchisees to successfully operate in the current and future credit environment;
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changes in the level of consumer spending given general economic conditions, including interest rates, energy prices and consumer confidence;
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our ability and that of our franchisees to open new restaurants and keep existing restaurants in operation;
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the impact that widespread illness, health epidemics or general health concerns, severe weather conditions and natural disasters may have on our business and the economies of the countries where we operate;
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changes in foreign currency exchange rates;
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changes in income tax rates;
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our ability to retain or replace our executive officers and other key members of management and our ability to adequately staff our stores and supply chain centers with qualified personnel;
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our ability to find and/or retain suitable real estate for our stores and supply chain centers;
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changes in government legislation or regulation, including changes in laws and regulations regarding information privacy, payment methods and consumer protection and social media;
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adverse legal judgments or settlements;
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food-borne illness or contamination of products or food tampering;
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data breaches, power loss, technological failures, user error or other cyber risks threatening us or our franchisees;
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the impact that environmental, social and governance matters may have on our business and reputation;
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the effect of war, terrorism, catastrophic events or climate change;
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our ability to pay dividends and repurchase shares;
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changes in consumer taste, spending and traffic patterns and demographic trends;
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actions by activist investors;
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changes in accounting policies; and
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adequacy of our insurance coverage.
In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this Form 10-K might not occur. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Form 10-K and should be evaluated with an understanding of their inherent uncertainty. Except as required under federal securities laws and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, we will not undertake, and specifically disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances arising after the date of this Form 10-K, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-K or that may be made elsewhere from time to time by, or on behalf of, us. All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements.
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