Texas Roadhouse Inc

Previous wording

The development and/or acquisition of new restaurant concepts may not contribute to our growth.

Current wording

The development and/or acquisition of additional restaurant concepts may not contribute to our growth.

Previous wording

The development of new restaurant concepts, including Bubba’s 33 and Jaggers, created internally or acquired as a part of our other strategic initiatives may not be as successful as our experience in the development of the Texas Roadhouse concept. These concepts may have lower brand awareness and less operating experience than most Texas Roadhouse restaurants. In addition, they may have a higher initial investment cost and/or a lower per person average check amount. As a result, the development and/or acquisition of new restaurant concepts may not contribute to our average unit volume growth and/or profitability in an incremental way. We can provide no assurance that new units will be accepted in the markets targeted for expansion and/or that we or our franchisees will be able to achieve our targeted returns when opening new locations. In the future, we may determine not to move forward with any further expansion and/or acquisition of new restaurant concepts. These decisions could limit or delay our overall long-term growth. Additionally, expansion and/or acquisition of new restaurant concepts might divert our management’s attention from other business concerns or initiatives and could have an adverse impact on our core Texas Roadhouse business.

Current wording

The development of additional restaurant concepts, including Bubba’s 33 and Jaggers, created internally or acquired as a part of our other strategic initiatives may not be as successful as our experience in the development of the Texas Roadhouse concept. These concepts may have lower brand awareness and less operating experience than most Texas Roadhouse restaurants. In addition, they may have a higher initial investment cost and/or a lower per person average check amount. As a result, the development and/or acquisition of additional restaurant concepts may not contribute to our average unit volume growth and/or profitability in an incremental way. We can provide no assurance that these units will be accepted in the markets targeted for expansion and/or that we or our franchisees will be able to achieve our targeted returns when opening new locations. In the future, we may determine not to move forward with any further expansion and/or acquisition of additional restaurant concepts. These decisions could limit or delay our overall long-term growth. Additionally, expansion and/or acquisition of additional restaurant concepts might divert our management’s attention from other business concerns or initiatives and could have an adverse impact on our core Texas Roadhouse business.

Previous wording

As of December 26, 2023, our operations include 48 Texas Roadhouse franchise restaurants in ten countries outside the United States, and we expect to have further international expansion in the future with one or more of our concepts. The entrance into international markets may not be as successful as our experience in the development of the Texas Roadhouse concept domestically or any success we have had with the Texas Roadhouse concept in other international markets. In addition, operating in international markets may require significant resources and management attention and will subject us to economic, political and regulatory risks that are different from and incremental to those in the United States. In addition to the risks that we face in the United States, our international operations involve risks that could adversely affect our business, including:

Current wording

The entrance into international markets may not be as successful as our experience in the development of our concepts domestically or any success we have had with our concepts in other international markets. In addition, operating in international markets may require significant resources and management attention and will subject us to economic, political, and regulatory risks that are different from and incremental to those in the United States. In addition to the risks that we face in the United States, our international operations involve risks that could adversely affect our business, including:

Previous wording

Additionally, we may evaluate other means to leverage our competitive strengths, including the expansion of our products across other strategic initiatives or business opportunities (including retail initiatives utilizing our intellectual property). The expansion of our products may damage our reputation if products bearing our brands are not of the same quality or value that guests associate with our concepts. In addition, we may experience dilution of the goodwill associated with our concepts as they become more common and increasingly accessible.

Current wording

Additionally, we may evaluate other means to leverage our competitive strengths, including the expansion of our products across other strategic initiatives or business opportunities (including retail initiatives utilizing our intellectual property). The expansion of our products may damage our reputation if products bearing our brands are not of the same quality or value that guests associate with our concepts or if our partners are accused of any actual or alleged misconduct. In addition, we may experience dilution of the goodwill associated with our concepts as they become more common and increasingly accessible.

Previous wording

As of December 26, 2023, we operated a total of 87 company restaurants in Texas and 44 company restaurants in Florida. As a result, we are particularly susceptible to adverse trends and economic conditions in those states, including any state mandated changes in minimum and tipped wage rates and economic pressures that may result in lower sales and profits at our restaurants. In addition, given our geographic concentration in these states, negative publicity regarding any of our restaurants in either Texas or Florida could have a material adverse effect on our business and operations, as could other occurrences in either Texas or Florida such as health epidemics or pandemics, local strikes, energy shortages or extreme fluctuations in energy prices, droughts, earthquakes, hurricanes, fires or other natural disasters.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we operated a total of 93 company restaurants in Texas and 48 company restaurants in Florida. As a result, we are particularly susceptible to adverse trends and economic conditions in those states, including any state mandated changes in minimum and tipped wage rates and economic pressures that may result in lower sales and profits at our restaurants. In addition, given our geographic concentration in these states, negative publicity regarding any of our restaurants in either Texas or Florida could have a material adverse effect on our business and operations, as could other occurrences in either Texas or Florida such as health epidemics or pandemics, local strikes, energy shortages or extreme fluctuations in energy prices, droughts, earthquakes, hurricanes, fires, or other natural disasters.

Previous wording

Both our domestic and international franchisees are contractually obligated to operate their restaurants in accordance with our applicable restaurant operating standards. We also provide training and support to franchisees. However, most franchisees are independent third parties that we do not control, and these franchisees own, operate and oversee the daily operations of their restaurants. As a result, the ultimate success and quality of any franchise restaurant rests with the franchisee. If franchisees do not successfully operate restaurants in a manner consistent with our standards, our image and reputation could be harmed, which in turn could adversely affect our business and operating results.

Current wording

Both our domestic and international franchisees are contractually obligated to operate their restaurants in accordance with our applicable restaurant operating standards. We also provide training and support to franchisees. However, most franchisees are independent third parties that we do not control, and these franchisees own, operate, and oversee the daily operations of their restaurants. As a result, the ultimate success and quality of any franchise restaurant rests with the franchisee. If franchisees or their employees do not successfully operate restaurants or act in a manner consistent with our standards, our image and reputation could be harmed, which in turn could adversely affect our business and operating results.

Previous wording

The lenders’ obligation to extend credit under our credit facility depends on our maintaining certain financial covenants. If we are unable to maintain these covenants, we would be unable to obtain additional financing under this credit facility. The credit facility permits us to incur additional secured or unsecured indebtedness outside the credit facility, except for the incurrence of secured indebtedness that in the aggregate is equal to or greater than $125.0 million and 20% of our consolidated tangible net worth or circumstances where the incurrence of secured or unsecured indebtedness would prevent us from complying with our financial covenants. If we are unable to borrow additional capital or have sufficient liquidity to either repay or refinance the then outstanding balance at the expiration of our credit facility, or upon violation of the covenants, our growth could be impeded and our financial performance could be significantly adversely affected.

Current wording

credit facility. The credit facility permits us to incur additional secured or unsecured indebtedness outside the credit facility, except for the incurrence of secured indebtedness that in the aggregate is equal to or greater than $125.0 million and 20% of our consolidated tangible net worth or circumstances where the incurrence of secured or unsecured indebtedness would prevent us from complying with our financial covenants. If we are unable to borrow additional capital or have sufficient liquidity to either repay or refinance the then outstanding balance at the expiration of our credit facility, or upon violation of the covenants, our growth could be impeded and our financial performance could be significantly adversely affected.

Previous wording

The majority of our company restaurants are located on leased premises. Additional sites that we lease are likely to be subject to similar long-term non-cancelable leases. In connection with the relocation, other operational changes or closure of any restaurant, we may nonetheless be committed to perform on our obligations under the applicable lease

Current wording

The majority of our company restaurants are located on leased premises. Additional sites that we lease are likely to be subject to similar long-term non-cancelable leases. In connection with the relocation, other operational changes or closure of any restaurant, we may nonetheless be committed to perform on our obligations under the applicable lease including, among other things, paying the base rent and real estate taxes for the balance of the lease term. We also are subject to landlord actions that could negatively impact our business or operations.

Previous wording

We may be required to record additional impairment charges in the future.

Current wording

We may be required to record impairment charges in the future.

Previous wording

We review the value of our goodwill on an annual basis and also when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of goodwill may exceed its fair value. The estimates of fair value are based upon the best information available as of the date of the assessment and incorporate management assumptions about expected future cash flows and contemplate other valuation measurements and techniques.

Current wording

We review the value of our goodwill on an annual basis and also when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of goodwill may exceed its fair value. Estimates of fair value are based upon the best information available as of the date of the assessment and incorporate management assumptions about expected future cash flows and contemplate other valuation measurements and techniques.

Previous wording

The estimates of fair value used in these analyses require the use of judgment, certain assumptions and estimates of future operating results. If actual results differ from our estimates or assumptions, additional impairment charges may be required in the future. If impairment charges are significant, our results of operations could be adversely affected.

Current wording

The estimates of fair value used in these analyses require the use of judgment regarding certain assumptions and estimates of future operating results. If actual results differ from our estimates or assumptions, impairment charges may be required in the future. If impairment charges are significant, our results of operations could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

Our success depends, in part, upon the popularity of our food products. Continued social concerns or shifts in consumer preferences away from our restaurants or food offerings, particularly beef, could harm our business. Consumer preferences regarding food sourcing in response to environmental or welfare concerns could also harm our business. Additionally, our success depends to a significant extent on discretionary consumer spending, which is influenced by general economic conditions, including high inflationary periods, and the availability of discretionary income. Accordingly, we may experience declines in sales during economic downturns, pandemics or other periods of uncertainty. Any material decline in the amount of discretionary spending could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition or liquidity.

Current wording

Our success also depends to a significant extent on discretionary consumer spending, which is influenced by general economic conditions, including high inflationary periods, and the availability of discretionary income. Accordingly, we may experience declines in sales during economic downturns, pandemics, or other periods of uncertainty. Any material decline in the amount of discretionary spending could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity.

Previous wording

In future periods, the U.S. and global economies could further suffer from a downturn in economic activity. Recessionary economic cycles, higher interest rates, higher fuel and other energy costs, sustained labor inflation, increases in commodity prices, higher levels of unemployment, higher consumer debt levels, higher tax rates and other changes in tax laws, financial market volatility, social unrest, government spending, a low or stagnant pace of economic recovery and growth, or other economic factors that may affect consumer spending or buying habits could adversely affect the demand for our products. In addition, there is no assurance that any governmental plans to stimulate the economy will foster growth in consumer spending or buying habits. As in the past, we could experience reduced guest traffic or we may be unable or unwilling to increase the prices we charge for our products to offset higher costs or fewer transactions, either of which could reduce our sales and profit margins. Also, landlords or other tenants in the shopping centers in which some of our restaurants are located may experience difficulty as a result of macroeconomic trends or cease to operate, which could in turn negatively affect guest traffic at our restaurants. All of these factors could have a material adverse impact on our business, results of operations, financial condition or liquidity.

Current wording

In future periods, the U.S. and global economies could further suffer from a downturn in economic activity. Recessionary economic cycles, higher interest rates, higher fuel and other energy costs, sustained labor inflation, increases in commodity prices, higher levels of unemployment, higher consumer debt levels, higher tax rates and other changes in tax laws, imposition of tariffs, financial market volatility, political or military conflicts, social unrest, government spending, a low or stagnant pace of economic recovery and growth, or other economic factors that may affect consumer spending or buying habits could adversely affect the demand for our products. In addition, there is no assurance that any governmental plans to stimulate the economy will foster growth in consumer spending or buying habits. As in the past, we could experience reduced guest traffic or we may be unable or unwilling to increase the prices we charge for our products to offset higher costs or fewer transactions, either of which could reduce our sales and profit margins. Also, landlords or other tenants in the shopping centers in which some of our restaurants are located may experience difficulty as a result of macroeconomic trends or cease to operate, which could in turn negatively affect guest traffic at our restaurants. All of these factors could have a material adverse impact on our business, results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity.

Previous wording

In addition to our having to comply with these licensing requirements, various federal and state labor laws govern our relationship with our employees and affect operating costs. These laws include minimum and tipped wage requirements, overtime pay, health benefits, unemployment taxes, workers’ compensation, work eligibility requirements and working conditions. A number of factors could adversely affect our operating results, including:

Current wording

In addition to having to comply with these licensing requirements, various federal and state labor laws govern our relationship with our employees and affect operating costs. These laws include minimum and tipped wage requirements, overtime pay, meal and rest breaks, exempt classifications, health benefits, unemployment taxes, workers’ compensation, work authorization and eligibility requirements, equal employment opportunities, anti-discrimination and harassment requirements, and working conditions. A number of factors could adversely affect our operating results, including:

Previous wording

Increasing legal complexity will continue to affect our operations and results. We could be subject to legal proceedings that may adversely affect our business, including class actions, administrative proceedings, government investigations, employment and personal injury claims, claims alleging violations of federal and state laws regarding consumer, workplace and employment matters, wage and hour claims, discrimination and similar matters, landlord/tenant disputes, disputes with current and former suppliers, claims by current and former franchisees, data privacy claims and intellectual property claims (including claims that we infringed upon another party’s trademarks, copyrights or patents). Additionally, we are subject to Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and NASDAQ reporting and disclosure requirements. Inconsistent standards imposed by governmental authorities can adversely affect our business and increase our exposure to litigation which could result in significant judgments, including punitive and liquidated damages, and injunctive relief.

Current wording

proceedings, government investigations, employment and personal injury claims, claims alleging violations of federal and state laws regarding consumer, workplace, and employment matters, immigration matters, wage and hour claims, discrimination and similar matters, landlord/tenant disputes, disputes with current and former suppliers, claims by current and former franchisees, data privacy claims, and intellectual property claims (including claims that we infringed upon another party’s trademarks, copyrights or patents). Additionally, we are subject to Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and NASDAQ reporting and disclosure requirements. Inconsistent standards imposed by state and federal governmental authorities can adversely affect our business and increase our cost of compliance and exposure to litigation which could result in significant judgments, including punitive and liquidated damages, and injunctive relief.

Previous wording

Regardless of whether any claims against us are valid or whether we are liable, claims may be expensive to defend and may divert time, attention and money away from our operations and hurt our performance. A judgment significantly in excess of any applicable insurance coverage could have significant adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. Further, adverse publicity resulting from these claims may hurt our business.

Current wording

Regardless of whether any claims against us are valid or whether we are liable, claims may be expensive to defend and may divert time, attention, and money away from our operations and hurt our performance. A judgment significantly in excess of any applicable insurance coverage could have a significant adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. Further, adverse publicity resulting from these claims may hurt our business.

Previous wording

We currently maintain insurance customary for businesses of our size and type. However, there are types of losses we may incur that cannot be insured against or that we believe are not economically reasonable to insure. Such damages could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and/or liquidity. In addition, we self-insure a significant portion of expected losses under our health, workers’ compensation, general liability, employment practices liability, cybersecurity and property insurance programs. Unanticipated changes in our claims experience and/or the actuarial assumptions and management estimates underlying our reserves for these losses could result in significantly different amounts of expense under these programs, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and liquidity. Additionally, if our insurance costs increase, there can be no assurance we will be able to successfully offset the effect of such increases and our results of operations may be adversely affected.

Current wording

Unanticipated changes in our claims experience and/or the actuarial assumptions and management estimates underlying our reserves for these losses could result in significant increases in expense under these programs, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity. Additionally, if our insurance costs increase, there can be no assurance we will be able to successfully offset the effect of such increases and our results of operations may be adversely affected.

Previous wording

We are primarily subject to federal, state and local income and other taxes in the United States. Our effective income tax rate and other taxes in the future could be affected by a number of factors, including changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, changes in tax laws or other legislative changes and the outcome of income tax audits. Any significant increases in income tax rates, changes in and/or interpretations of income tax laws or unfavorable resolution of tax matters could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations, financial condition or liquidity.

Current wording

We are primarily subject to federal, state, and local income and other taxes in the United States. Our effective income tax rate and other taxes in the future could be affected by a number of factors, including changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, changes in tax laws or other legislative changes, and the outcome of income tax

Previous wording

Failure to adequately address environmental, social and/or governance ("ESG ") matters could adversely affect our brand, business, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

Failure to properly address environmental, social, and/or governance ("ESG ") matters could adversely affect our brand, business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Previous wording

Entities across all industries are facing increased interest related to ESG matters including packaging and waste, animal health and welfare, human rights, climate change, greenhouse gases and land, energy and water use. In addition, we have faced enhanced pressure to provide expanded disclosures around ESG matters and establish goals or targets with respect to ESG matters. In response to the heightened level of expectation for expanded ESG disclosure, we have published a Corporate Sustainability Report detailing our ESG efforts and which we update regularly.

Current wording

Entities across all industries are facing increased attention related to ESG matters including packaging and waste, animal health and welfare, human rights, reproductive rights, diversity and inclusion efforts, climate change, greenhouse gases, and land, energy, and water use. In addition, we have faced enhanced pressure to not only provide expanded disclosures around ESG matters and establish goals or targets with respect to ESG matters but also pressure to scale back our programs and/or initiatives relating to the same.

Previous wording

Evolving consumer and investor interest and preferences as well as governmental regulation may result in additional disclosure, due diligence, reporting and specific target-setting with regard to our business and supply chain that could result in additional costs to comply with such demands. Failure to comply with the increased demands could result in consumer or investor scrutiny and/or litigation and could have an adverse effect on our business. Establishing targets or making other public commitments due to these demands, without a full or complete understanding of the cost or operational impact of changes in our supply chain or operating model, could also adversely affect our business and financial condition.

Current wording

Evolving consumer and investor interest and preferences as well as governmental regulation and scrutiny may result in additional disclosure, due diligence, reporting, and specific target-setting with regard to our business and supply chain that could result in additional costs to comply with such demands. However, our ESG-related programs and initiatives and disclosures relating to the same may also result in brand and/or reputational risks and demands. Failure to balance these competing demands could result in consumer or investor scrutiny and/or litigation and could have an adverse effect on our business. Establishing targets or making other public commitments due to these demands, without a full or complete understanding of the cost or operational impact of changes in our supply chain or operating model, could also adversely affect our business and financial condition. In addition, some individuals, shareholder activists, government officials, and regulators have expressed opposing views and actions with respect to ESG matters which includes the proposal or enactment of "Anti-ESG" policies and initiatives. We may face increased scrutiny, reputational risk, and other demands from these parties regarding our ESG initiatives.

Previous wording

Failure to retain the services of our key management personnel, or to successfully execute succession planning and attract additional qualified personnel could harm our business.

Current wording

Failure to retain the services of our key management personnel, to successfully execute succession planning, or attract additional qualified personnel could harm our business.

Previous wording

We have many restaurants located in states or municipalities where the minimum and/or tipped wage is greater than the federal minimum and/or tipped wage. We anticipate that additional legislation increasing minimum and/or tipped wage standards will be enacted in future periods either federally or in state and local jurisdictions. In addition, regulatory actions which result in changes to healthcare eligibility, design and cost structure could occur. Any increases in minimum and/or tipped wages or increases in employee benefits costs will result in sustained higher labor costs.

Current wording

wage standards will be enacted in future periods either federally or in state and local jurisdictions. In addition, regulatory actions which result in changes to healthcare eligibility, design, and cost structure could occur. Any increases in minimum and/or tipped wages or increases in employee benefits costs could result in sustained higher labor costs.

Previous wording

We rely heavily on information technology, and any material failure, weakness, ransomware or interruption could prevent us from effectively operating our business.

Current wording

We rely heavily on information technology, and any material failure, weakness, cybersecurity breach, or other interruption could prevent us from effectively operating our business.

Previous wording

We rely heavily on information systems in all aspects of our operations, including point-of-sale systems, digital apps, financial systems, marketing programs, e-commerce and various other processes and transactions. This reliance has significantly increased in recent years as we have had to rely to a greater extent on systems such as online ordering, contactless payments, online waitlists, and systems supporting a more remote workforce as our guests are increasingly using our website and digital applications to place and pay for their orders. Our point-of-sale processing in our restaurants includes collection of cash, credit cards, debit cards, gift cards and other processes and procedures. Our ability to efficiently and effectively manage our business depends significantly on the reliability, security and capacity of these systems. As our business needs continue to evolve, these systems will require upgrading and maintenance over time, consequently requiring significant future commitments of resources and capital. Additionally, as we become

Current wording

We rely heavily on information systems in all aspects of our operations, including point-of-sale systems, digital apps, financial systems, marketing programs, e-commerce, and various other processes and transactions. This reliance has significantly increased in recent years as we have had to depend to a greater extent on systems such as online ordering, contactless payments, and online waitlists as our guests are increasingly using our website and digital applications to place and pay for their orders. Our point-of-sale processing in our restaurants includes collection of cash, credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, and other processes and procedures. Our ability to efficiently and effectively manage our business depends significantly on the reliability, security, and capacity of these systems. As our business needs continue to evolve, these systems will require upgrading and maintenance over time, consequently requiring significant future commitments of resources and capital. As we become increasingly reliant on digital ordering and payment as a sales channel, our business could be negatively impacted if we are unable to successfully implement, execute, or maintain our consumer-facing digital initiatives. Additionally, the increased use of remote work has increased the susceptibility of our infrastructure to disruption.

Previous wording

We have disaster recovery procedures and business continuity plans in place to address events of a crisis nature, including tornadoes and other natural disasters, and back up off-site locations for recovery of electronic and other forms of data information. However, if we are unable to fully implement our disaster recovery plans, we may experience delays in recovery of data, inability to perform vital corporate functions, tardiness in required reporting and compliance, failures to adequately support field operations and other breakdowns in normal communication and operating procedures that could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and exposure to administrative and other legal claims.

Current wording

We have disaster recovery procedures and business continuity plans in place to address physical and technological crises, including tornadoes and other natural disasters, and back-up off-site locations for recovery of electronic and other forms of data information. However, if we are unable to fully implement our disaster recovery and business continuity plans, we may experience delays in recovery of data, inability to perform vital corporate functions, tardiness in required reporting and compliance, failures to adequately support field operations, and other breakdowns in normal communication and operating procedures that could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and exposure to administrative and other legal claims.

Previous wording

Our ability to expand and update our information technology infrastructure in response to our growing and changing needs would be inhibited in the event of a cybersecurity incident. This could lead to a delayed implementation of new service offerings, disruptions to guest experiences including via our website and applications and the diversion of resources that would otherwise be invested in expanding our business and operations. Additionally, we could be subject to litigation and government enforcement actions as a result of any such failure. Any such claim or proceeding could cause us to incur significant unplanned expenses in excess of our insurance coverage, which could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, if there are malfunctions or other problems with our processing vendors, billing software or payment processing systems, it may cause interruption of normal business performance. These vendors may also experience interruptions to their information technology systems that could adversely affect us and which we may have limited or no control.

Current wording

Additionally, our ability to expand and update our information technology infrastructure in response to our growing and changing needs could be inhibited in the event of a cybersecurity incident. This could lead to a delayed implementation of new service offerings, disruptions to guest experiences including via our website and applications, and the diversion of resources that would otherwise be invested in expanding our business and operations.

Previous wording

Some business processes are currently outsourced to third parties, including such processes as information technology, gift card tracking, credit and debit card authorization and processing, insurance claims processing, unemployment claims processing, payroll tax filings, vendor payment processing and other accounting processes. We continually evaluate our other business processes to determine if additional outsourcing is a viable, and the most appropriate, option to accomplish our goals. We make a diligent effort to validate that all providers of outsourced services maintain customary internal controls, such as redundant processing facilities and adequate security frameworks to guard against breaches or data loss; however, there are no guarantees that failures will not occur. Failure of third parties to provide adequate services or internal controls over their processes could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition or ability to accomplish our financial and management reporting.

Current wording

We make a diligent effort to validate that all providers of outsourced services maintain customary internal controls, such as redundant processing facilities and adequate security frameworks to guard against breaches or data loss; however, there are no guarantees that failures will not occur. Failure of third parties to provide adequate services or internal controls over their processes could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, or ability to accomplish our financial and management reporting.

Previous wording

various jurisdictions, as well as by certain third-party contracts, frameworks and industry standards, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. Hardware, software or other applications we develop and procure from third parties or vendor’s third-party applications could be subject to vulnerabilities or cybersecurity incidents or may contain defects in design or manufacture or other problems that could unexpectedly compromise information security. Unauthorized parties may also attempt to gain access to our systems and facilities through fraud, trickery or other forms of deceiving our employees or vendors.

Current wording

We receive and maintain certain personal, financial, or other information about our guests, vendors, and employees. In 2024, approximately 88% of our transactions were by credit or debit cards. In addition, certain of our vendors receive and/or maintain certain personal, financial, and other information about our employees and guests on our behalf. The use and handling, including security, of this information is regulated by privacy and data protection laws and regulations in various jurisdictions, as well as by certain third-party contracts, frameworks, and industry standards, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. Hardware, software, or other applications we develop and procure from third parties or vendor’s third-party applications could be subject to vulnerabilities or cybersecurity incidents or may contain unknown defects in design or manufacture or other problems that could unexpectedly compromise information security. Unauthorized parties may also attempt to gain access to our systems and facilities through fraud, trickery, or other forms of deceiving our employees or vendors.

Previous wording

We own certain common law trademark rights and a number of federal and international trademark and service mark registrations, including our trade names and logos, and proprietary rights relating to certain of our core menu offerings. We believe that our trademarks and other proprietary rights are important to our success and our competitive position. Therefore, we devote appropriate resources to the protection of our trademarks and proprietary rights. However, the protective actions that we take may not be enough to prevent unauthorized usage or imitation by others, which could harm our image, brand or competitive position and, if we commence litigation to enforce our rights, cause us to incur significant legal fees. Our inability to register or protect our marks and other proprietary rights in foreign jurisdictions could adversely affect our competitive position in international markets.

Current wording

We own certain common law trademark rights and a number of federal and international trademark and service mark registrations, including our trade names and logos, and proprietary rights relating to certain of our core menu offerings. We believe that our trademarks and other proprietary rights are important to our success and our competitive position. Therefore, we devote appropriate resources to the protection of our trademarks and proprietary rights. However, the protective actions that we take may not be enough to prevent unauthorized usage or imitation by others, which could harm our image, brand, or competitive position and, if we commence litigation to enforce our rights, cause

Previous wording

Our profitability depends in part on our ability to anticipate and react to changes in food and supply costs and/or the availability of products necessary to operate our business, including increased costs arising from federal and/or state mandated requirements. Any increase in food prices or loss of supply, particularly proteins, could adversely affect our operating results. In addition, we are susceptible to increases in food costs as a result of factors beyond our control, such as food supply constrictions, weather conditions, food safety concerns, global pandemics, product recalls, global market and trade conditions, and government regulations. We cannot predict whether we will be able to anticipate and react to changing food costs and/or loss of supply by adjusting our purchasing practices, menu prices or menu offerings, and a failure to do so could adversely affect our operating results. Extreme and/or long term increases in commodity prices could adversely affect our future results, especially if we are unable, primarily due to competitive reasons, to increase menu prices. Additionally, if there is a time lag between the increasing commodity prices and our ability to increase menu prices or if we believe the commodity price increase to be short in duration and we choose not to pass on the cost increases, our short-term results could be negatively affected. Also, if we adjust pricing there is no assurance that we will realize the full benefit of any adjustment due to changes in our guests’ menu item selections and guest traffic.

Current wording

Our profitability depends in part on our ability to anticipate and react to changes in food and supply costs and/or the availability of products necessary to operate our business, including increased costs arising from federal and/or state mandated requirements. Any increase in food prices or loss of supply, particularly proteins, could adversely affect our operating results. In addition, we are susceptible to increases in food costs as a result of factors beyond our control, such as food supply constrictions, inflationary cycles, weather conditions, food safety concerns, global pandemics, product recalls, global market and trade conditions, and government regulations including the imposition of tariffs. We cannot predict whether we will be able to anticipate and react to changing food costs and/or loss of supply by adjusting our purchasing practices, menu prices, or menu offerings, and a failure to do so could adversely affect our operating results. Extreme and/or long term increases in commodity prices could adversely affect our future results, especially if we are unable, primarily due to competitive reasons, to increase menu prices. Additionally, if there is a time lag between the increasing commodity prices and our ability to increase menu prices or if we believe the commodity price increase to be short in duration and we choose not to pass on the cost increases, our short-term results could be negatively affected. Also, if we adjust pricing there is no assurance that we will realize the full benefit of any adjustment due to changes in our guests’ menu item selections and guest traffic.

Previous wording

options and overall guest experience. Our competitors include a large and diverse group of restaurant chains and individual restaurants that range from independent local operators that have opened restaurants in various markets to well-capitalized national restaurant chains. We also face competition from meal kit delivery services as well as the supermarket industry. In addition, improving product offerings of fast casual and quick-service restaurants, together with negative economic conditions could cause consumers to choose less expensive alternatives. As our competitors expand their operations, we expect competition to intensify. We also compete with other restaurant chains and other retail establishments for quality site locations and employees. Additionally, our competitors may generate or better implement business strategies that improve the value and the relevance of their brands and reputation, relative to ours. This could include the testing of delivery via internal or third-party methods or better execution around guests’ to-go experience.

Current wording

The restaurant industry is intensely competitive. We compete with many well-established food service companies on the basis of taste, quality, and price of products offered, guest service, atmosphere, location, take-out and delivery options, and overall guest experience. Our competitors include a large and diverse group of restaurant chains and individual restaurants that range from independent local operators that have opened restaurants in various markets to well-capitalized national restaurant chains. We also face competition from meal kit delivery services as well as the supermarket industry. In addition, improving product offerings of fast-casual and quick-service restaurants, together with negative economic conditions could cause consumers to choose less expensive alternatives. As our competitors expand their operations, we expect competition to intensify. We also compete with other restaurant chains and other retail establishments for quality site locations and employees. Our competitors may generate or more effectively implement business strategies that improve the value and the relevance of their brands and reputation, relative to ours. This includes our competitors’ ability to adapt and respond to new technological developments, including artificial intelligence, to develop new customer insights that allows them to better respond to changing guest expectations.

Previous wording

The food service industry is affected by litigation and publicity concerning food quality, health and other issues, which can cause guests to avoid our restaurants and result in significant liabilities or litigation costs.

Current wording

The food service industry is affected by litigation and publicity concerning food quality, health, and other issues, which could cause guests to avoid our restaurants and could result in significant liabilities or litigation costs.

Previous wording

Furthermore, our reliance on third-party food suppliers and distributors increases the risk that food-borne illness incidents could be caused by factors outside of our control and that multiple locations would be affected rather than a single restaurant. While we attempt to minimize the risk, we cannot assure that all food items are properly maintained during transport throughout the supply chain and that our employees will identify all products that may be spoiled and should not be used in our restaurants. If our guests become ill from food-borne illnesses, we could be forced to

Current wording

Furthermore, our reliance on third-party food suppliers and distributors increases the risk that food-borne illness incidents could be caused by factors outside of our control and that multiple locations would be affected rather than a single restaurant. While we attempt to minimize the risk, we cannot assure that all food items are properly maintained during transport throughout the supply chain and that our employees will identify all products that may be spoiled and should not be used in our restaurants. If our guests become ill from food-borne illnesses, we could be forced to temporarily close some restaurants. Furthermore, any instances of food contamination, whether or not at our restaurants, could subject us or our suppliers to a food recall.

Previous wording

As part of our marketing strategy, we utilize social media platforms to promote our concepts and attract and retain guests. Our strategy may not be successful, resulting in expenses incurred without improvement in guest traffic or brand relevance. In addition, a variety of risks are associated with the use of social media, including improper disclosure of proprietary information, negative comments about us, exposure of personally identifiable information, fraud, or dissemination of false information. The inappropriate use of social media vehicles by our guests or employees could increase our costs, lead to litigation or result in negative publicity that could damage our reputation and adversely affect our results of operations.

Current wording

As part of our marketing strategy, we utilize social media platforms to promote our concepts and attract and retain guests. Our strategy may not be successful, resulting in expenses incurred without improvement in guest traffic or brand relevance. In addition, a variety of risks are associated with the use of social media, including improper disclosure of proprietary information, negative comments about us, exposure of personally identifiable information, fraud, or dissemination of false information. The inappropriate use of social media platforms by our guests or employees could increase our costs, lead to litigation, or result in negative publicity that could damage our reputation and adversely affect our results of operations.

Previous wording

Given the marked increase in the use of social media platforms, individuals have access to a broad audience of consumers and other interested persons. The availability of information on social media platforms is virtually immediate as is its impact. Many social media platforms immediately publish the content their subscribers and participants post, often without filters or checks on the accuracy of the content posted. Information concerning our Company may be posted on such platforms at any time. This includes posts by social media influencers that have a significant number of followers and reach on the variety of social media platforms. Additionally, social media has increasingly been utilized to target specific companies or brands as a result of a variety of actions or inactions, or perceived actions or inactions, that are disfavored by interest groups and such campaigns can rapidly accelerate and impact consumer behavior. If we are unable to quickly and effectively respond to such reports, we may suffer declines in guest traffic. The impact may be immediate without affording us an opportunity for redress or correction. These factors could have a material adverse impact on our business.

Current wording

participants post, often without filters or checks on the accuracy of the content posted. Information concerning our Company may be posted on such platforms at any time. This includes posts by social media influencers that have a significant number of followers and reach on the variety of social media platforms. Additionally, social media has increasingly been utilized to target specific companies or brands as a result of a variety of actions or inactions, or perceived actions or inactions, that are disfavored by interest groups and such campaigns can rapidly accelerate and impact consumer behavior. If we are unable to quickly and effectively respond to such reports, we may suffer declines in guest traffic. The impact may be immediate without affording us an opportunity for redress or correction. These factors could have a material adverse impact on our business.

Previous wording

indebtedness, capital requirements, business prospects, macro-economic conditions and other factors that our Board may deem relevant. There can be no assurance that we will continue to pay dividends or repurchase our common stock at the same levels we have historically (if at all).

Current wording

Payment of cash dividends on our common stock or repurchases of our common stock are subject to compliance with applicable laws and depends on, among other things, our results of operations, financial condition, level of indebtedness, capital requirements, business prospects, macro-economic conditions, and other factors that our Board may deem relevant. There can be no assurance that we will continue to pay dividends or repurchase our common stock at the same levels we have historically (if at all).

Previous wording

The Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. This includes establishing controls around the adoption of new, or changes in existing, accounting policies and practices. Despite its inherent limitations, effective internal control over financial reporting helps provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting for external purposes. A significant accounting error correction, financial reporting failure or material weakness in internal control over financial reporting could cause results in our consolidated financial statements that do not accurately reflect our financial condition, a loss of investor confidence and subsequent decline in the market price of our common stock, increase our costs and regulatory scrutiny, and lead to litigation or result in negative publicity that could damage our reputation.

Current wording

The Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. This includes establishing controls around the adoption of new, or changes in existing, accounting policies and practices. Despite its inherent limitations, effective internal control over financial reporting helps provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting for external purposes. A significant accounting error, financial reporting failure, or material weakness in internal control over financial reporting could cause results in our consolidated financial statements that do not accurately reflect our financial condition, a loss of investor confidence, and subsequent decline in the market price of our common stock, increase our costs and regulatory scrutiny, and lead to litigation or result in negative publicity that could damage our reputation.