Restaurant Brands International Inc

Note 1. Description of Business and Organization

Description of Business

Restaurant Brands International Inc. (the “Company,” “RBI,” “we,” “us” or “our”) is a Canadian corporation that serves as the sole general partner of Restaurant Brands International Limited Partnership (the “Partnership”). We franchise and operate quick service restaurants serving premium coffee and other beverage and food products under the Tim Hortons® brand (“Tim Hortons”), fast food hamburgers principally under the Burger King® brand (“Burger King”), chicken under the Popeyes® brand (“Popeyes”) and sandwiches under the Firehouse Subs® brand (“Firehouse”). We are one of the world’s largest quick service restaurant, or QSR, companies as measured by total number of restaurants. As of December 31, 2024, we franchised or owned 6,043 Tim Hortons restaurants,19,732 Burger King restaurants,4,979 Popeyes restaurants, and 1,371 Firehouse Subs restaurants, for a total of 32,125 restaurants, and operate in more than 120 countries and territories. As of December 31, 2024, approximately 95% of current system-wide restaurants are franchised.

All references to “$” or “dollars” are to the currency of the United States unless otherwise indicated. All references to “Canadian dollars” or “C$” are to the currency of Canada unless otherwise indicated.

Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies

Fiscal Year

We operate on a monthly calendar, with a fiscal year that ends on December 31.

Basis of Presentation

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) and related rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission requires our management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements (the "Financial Statements") include our accounts and the accounts of entities in which we have a controlling financial interest, the usual condition of which is ownership of a majority voting interest, including marketing funds we control. We also consider entities for consolidation when the controlling financial interest may be achieved through arrangements that do not involve voting interests (“VIE”).

We are the sole general partner of Partnership and, as such we have the exclusive right, power and authority to manage, control, administer and operate the business and affairs and to make decisions regarding the undertaking and business of Partnership, subject to the terms of the limited partnership agreement of Partnership (“partnership agreement”) and applicable laws. As a result, we consolidate the results of Partnership and record a noncontrolling interest in our consolidated balance sheets and statements of operations with respect to the remaining economic interest in Partnership we do not hold.

All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Investments in other affiliates that are owned 50% or less where we have significant influence are generally accounted for by the equity method.

Foreign Currency Translation and Transaction Gains and Losses

Our functional currency is the U.S. dollar, since our term loans and senior secured notes are denominated in U.S. dollars, and the principal market for our common shares is the U.S. The functional currency of each of our operating subsidiaries is generally the currency of the economic environment in which the subsidiary primarily does business. Our foreign subsidiaries’ financial statements are translated into U.S. dollars using the foreign exchange rates applicable to the dates of the financial statements. Assets and liabilities are translated using the end-of-period spot foreign exchange rates. Income, expenses and cash flows are translated at the average foreign exchange rates for each period. Equity accounts are translated at historical foreign exchange rates. The effects of these translation adjustments are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) in the consolidated statements of shareholders’ equity.

For any transaction that is denominated in a currency different from the entity’s functional currency, we record a gain or loss based on the difference between the foreign exchange rate at the transaction date and the foreign exchange rate at the transaction settlement date (or rate at period end, if unsettled) which is included within other operating expenses (income), net in the consolidated statements of operations.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

All highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less and credit card receivables are considered cash equivalents.

Accounts and Notes Receivable, net

Our credit loss exposure is mainly concentrated in our accounts and notes receivable portfolio, which consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees, including royalties, rents, franchise fees, contributions due to advertising funds we manage and, in the case of our TH segment, amounts due for supply chain sales. Accounts and notes receivable are reported net of an allowance for expected credit losses over the estimated life of the receivable. Credit losses are estimated based on aging, historical collection experience, financial position of the franchisee and other factors, including those related to current economic conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future conditions.

Bad debt expense recognized for expected credit losses is classified in our consolidated statement of operations as Cost of sales, Franchise and property expenses or Advertising expenses and other services, based on the nature of the underlying receivable. Net bad debt expense totaled $24 million in 2024, $20 million in 2023 and $19 million in 2022.

Inventories

Inventories are carried at the lower of cost or net realizable value and consist primarily of raw materials such as green coffee beans and finished goods such as new equipment, parts, paper supplies and restaurant food items. The moving average method is used to determine the cost of raw materials and finished goods inventories held for sale to Tim Hortons franchisees.

Property and Equipment, net

We record property and equipment at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization, which is recognized using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: (i) buildings and improvements – up to 40 years; (ii) restaurant equipment – up to 17 years; (iii) furniture, fixtures and other – up to 10 years; and (iv) manufacturing equipment – up to 25 years. Leasehold improvements to properties where we are the lessee are amortized over the lesser of the remaining term of the lease or the estimated useful life of the improvement.

Major improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are expensed when incurred.

Capitalized Software and Cloud Computing Costs

We record capitalized software at historical cost less accumulated amortization, which is recognized using the straight-line method. Amortization expense is based on the estimated useful life of the software, which is primarily up tofive years, once the asset is available for its intended use.

Implementation costs incurred in connection with Cloud Computing Arrangements (“CCA”) are capitalized consistently with costs capitalized for internal-use software. Capitalized CCA implementation costs are included in “Other assets” in the consolidated balance sheets and are amortized over the term of the related hosting agreement, including renewal periods that are reasonably certain to be exercised. Amortization expense of CCA implementation costs is classified as “General and administrative expenses” in the consolidated statements of operations.

Leases

In all leases, whether we are the lessor or lessee, we define lease term as the non-cancellable term of the lease plus any renewals covered by renewal options that are reasonably certain of exercise based on our assessment of the economic factors relevant to the lessee. The noncancellable term of the lease commences on the date the lessor makes the underlying property in the lease available to the lessee, irrespective of when lease payments begin under the contract.

Lessor Accounting

We recognize lease payments for operating leases as property revenue on a straight-line basis over the lease term, and property revenue is presented net of any related sales tax. Lease incentive payments we make to lessees are amortized as a reduction in property revenue over the lease term. We account for reimbursements of maintenance and property tax costs paid to us by lessees as property revenue.

We also have net investments in properties leased to franchisees, which are classified as sales-type leases or direct financing leases. Investments in sales-type leases and direct financing leases are recorded on a net basis. Profit on sales-type leases is recognized at lease commencement and recorded in other operating expenses (income), net. Unearned income on direct financing leases is deferred, included in the net investment in the lease, and recognized over the lease term, yielding a constant periodic rate of return on the net investment in the lease.

We recognize variable lease payment income in the period when changes in facts and circumstances on which the variable lease payments are based occur.

Lessee Accounting

In leases where we are the lessee, we recognize a right-of-use (“ROU”) asset and lease liability at lease commencement, which are measured by discounting lease payments using our incremental borrowing rate as the discount rate. We determine the incremental borrowing rate applicable to each lease by reference to our outstanding secured borrowings and implied spreads over the risk-free discount rates that correspond to the term of each lease, as adjusted for the currency of the lease. Subsequent amortization of the ROU asset and accretion of the lease liability for an operating lease is recognized as a single lease cost, on a straight-line basis, over the lease term. Reductions of the ROU asset and the change in the lease liability are included in changes in Other long-term assets and liabilities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.

A finance lease ROU asset is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the useful life of the leased asset or lease term. Interest on each finance lease liability is determined as the amount that results in a constant periodic discount rate on the remaining balance of the liability. Operating lease and finance lease ROU assets are assessed for impairment in accordance with our long-lived asset impairment policy.

We reassess lease classification and remeasure ROU assets and lease liabilities when a lease is modified and that modification is not accounted for as a separate contract or upon certain other events that require reassessment. Maintenance and property tax expenses are accounted for on an accrual basis as variable lease cost.

We recognize variable lease cost in the period when changes in facts and circumstances on which the variable lease payments are based occur.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Not Subject to Amortization

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in connection with business combination transactions. Our indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of the Tim Hortons brand, the Burger King brand, the Popeyes brand and the Firehouse Subs brand (each a “Brand” and together, the “Brands”). Goodwill and the Brands are tested for impairment at least annually as of October 1 of each year and more often if an event occurs or circumstances change which indicate that impairment might exist. Our annual impairment tests of goodwill and the Brands may be completed through qualitative assessments. We may elect to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to a quantitative impairment test for any reporting unit or Brand in any period. We can resume the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit or Brand in any subsequent period.

Under a qualitative approach, our impairment review for goodwill consists of an assessment of whether it is more-likely-than-not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. If we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit, or if a qualitative assessment indicates it is more-likely-than-not that the estimated carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, we perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test that requires us to estimate the fair value of the reporting unit. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we will measure any goodwill impairment loss as the amount by which the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit.

Under a qualitative approach, our impairment review for the Brands consists of an assessment of whether it is more-likely-than-not that a Brand’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. If we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment for a Brand, or if a qualitative assessment indicates it is more-likely-than-not that the estimated carrying value of a Brand exceeds its fair value, we estimate the fair value of the Brand and compare it to its carrying amount. If the carrying amount exceeds fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

We completed our impairment tests for goodwill and the Brands as of October 1, 2024, 2023 and 2022 andno impairment resulted.

Long-Lived Assets

Long-lived assets, such as property and equipment, intangible assets subject to amortization and lease right-of-use assets, are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset or asset group may not be recoverable. Some of the events or changes in circumstances that would trigger an impairment review include, but are not limited to, bankruptcy proceedings or other significant financial distress of a lessee; significant negative industry or economic trends; knowledge of transactions involving the sale of similar property at amounts below the carrying value; or our expectation to dispose of long-lived assets before the end of their estimated useful lives. The impairment test for long-lived assets requires us to assess the recoverability of long-lived assets by comparing their net carrying value to the sum of undiscounted estimated future cash flows directly associated with and arising from use and eventual disposition of the assets or asset group. Long-lived assets are grouped for recognition and measurement of impairment at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets. If the net carrying value of a group of long-lived assets exceeds the sum of related undiscounted estimated future cash flows, we record an impairment charge equal to the excess, if any, of the net carrying value over fair value.

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Other comprehensive income (loss) (“OCI”) refers to revenues, expenses, gains and losses that are included in comprehensive income (loss), but are excluded from net income (loss) as these amounts are recorded directly as an adjustment to shareholders’ equity, net of tax. Our other comprehensive income (loss) is primarily comprised of unrealized gains and losses on foreign currency translation adjustments and unrealized gains and losses on hedging activity, net of tax.

Derivative Financial Instruments

We recognize and measure all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. Derivative instruments accounted for as net investments hedges are classified as long term assets and liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. We may enter into derivatives that are not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes, but which largely offset the economic impact of certain transactions.

Gains or losses resulting from changes in the fair value of derivatives are recognized in earnings or recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) and recognized in the consolidated statements of operations when the hedged item affects earnings, depending on the purpose of the derivatives and whether they qualify for, and we have applied, hedge accounting treatment.

When applying hedge accounting, we designate at a derivative’s inception, the specific assets, liabilities or future commitments being hedged, and assess the hedge’s effectiveness at inception and on an ongoing basis. We discontinue hedge accounting when: (i) we determine that the cash flow derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of a hedged item; (ii) the derivative expires or is sold, terminated or exercised; (iii) it is no longer probable that the forecasted transaction will occur; or (iv) management determines that designation of the derivatives as a hedge instrument is no longer appropriate. We do not enter into or hold derivatives for speculative purposes.

Disclosures about Fair Value

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants in the principal market, or if none exists, the most advantageous market, for the specific asset or liability at the measurement date (the exit price). The fair value is based on assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability. The fair values are assigned a level within the fair value hierarchy, depending on the source of the inputs into the calculation, as follows:

Level 1 Observable inputs that reflect quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

Level 2 Inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability either directly or indirectly.

Level 3 Unobservable inputs reflecting management’s own assumptions about the inputs used in pricing the asset or liability.

The carrying amounts for cash and cash equivalents, accounts and notes receivable and accounts and drafts payable approximate fair value based on the short-term nature of these amounts.

We carry all of our derivatives at fair value and value them using various pricing models or discounted cash flow analysis that incorporate observable market parameters, such as interest rate yield curves and currency rates, which are Level 2 inputs. Derivative valuations incorporate credit risk adjustments that are necessary to reflect the probability of default by the counterparty or us. For disclosures about the fair value measurements of our derivative instruments, see Note 12, Derivative Instruments.

The following table presents the fair value of our variable rate term debt and senior notes, estimated using inputs based on bid and offer prices that are Level 2 inputs, and principal carrying amount (in millions):

The determination of fair values of certain tangible and intangible assets for purposes of the application of the acquisition method of accounting to the acquisition of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. were based on Level 3 inputs. The determination of fair values of our reporting units and the determination of the fair value of the Brands for impairment testing using a quantitative approach during 2024, 2023 and 2022 were based upon Level 3 inputs.

Revenue Recognition

Supply chain sales

Supply chain sales represent sales of products, supplies and restaurant equipment to franchisees, as well as sales to retailers and direct to consumer and are presented net of any related sales tax. Revenue is recognized upon transfer of control over ordered items, generally upon delivery to the customer, which is when the customer has all risks and rewards of ownership and an obligation to pay for the goods is created. Shipping and handling costs associated with outbound freight for supply chain sales are accounted for as fulfillment costs and classified as cost of sales.

Company restaurant sales

Company restaurant sales consist of sales to restaurant guests. Revenue from Company restaurant sales is recognized at the point of sale. Taxes assessed by a governmental authority that we collect are excluded from revenue.

Franchise revenues

Franchise revenues consist primarily of royalties, initial and renewal franchise fees and upfront fees from development agreements and master franchise and development agreements (“MFDAs”). Under franchise agreements, we provide franchisees with (i) a franchise license, which includes a license to use our intellectual property, (ii) pre-opening services, such as training and inspections, and (iii) ongoing services, such as development of training materials and menu items and restaurant monitoring and inspections. These services are highly interrelated and dependent upon the franchise license and we concluded these services do not represent individually distinct performance obligations. Consequently, we bundle the franchise license performance obligation and promises to provide these services into a single performance obligation (the “Franchise PO”), which we satisfy by providing a right to use our intellectual property over the term of each franchise agreement.

Royalties are calculated as a percentage of franchised restaurant sales over the term of the franchise agreement. Initial and renewal franchise fees are payable by the franchisee upon a new restaurant opening or renewal of an existing franchise agreement. Our franchise agreement royalties represent sales-based royalties that are related entirely to the Franchise PO and are recognized as franchise sales occur. Initial and renewal franchise fees are recognized as revenue on a straight-line basis over the term of the respective agreement. Our performance obligation under development agreements other than MFDAs generally consists of an obligation to grant exclusive development rights over a stated term, which are not distinct from franchise agreements. Upfront fees paid by franchisees for exclusive development rights are apportioned to each franchised restaurant opened by the franchisee, with the pro rata amount apportioned to each restaurant accounted for as an initial franchise fee.

We have a distinct performance obligation under our MFDAs to grant subfranchising rights over a stated term. Under the terms of MFDAs, we typically either receive an upfront fee paid in cash and/or receive noncash consideration in the form of an equity interest in the master franchisee or an affiliate of the master franchisee. We account for noncash consideration as investments in the applicable equity method investee and recognize revenue in an amount equal to the fair value of the equity interest received. Upfront fees from master franchisees, including the fair value of noncash consideration, are deferred and amortized over the MFDA term on a straight-line basis. We may recognize unamortized upfront fees when a contract with a franchisee or master franchisee is modified and is accounted for as a termination of the existing contract.

The portion of gift cards sold to customers which are never redeemed is commonly referred to as gift card breakage. We recognize gift card breakage income proportionately as each gift card is redeemed using an estimated breakage rate based on our historical experience.

In certain instances, we provide incentives to franchisees in connection with restaurant renovations or other initiatives. These incentives may consist of cash consideration or non-cash consideration such as restaurant equipment. In general, these incentives are designed to support system-wide sales growth to increase our future revenues. The costs of these incentives are capitalized and amortized as a reduction in franchise and property revenue over the term of the contract to which the incentive relates.

Advertising revenues and other services

Advertising revenues consist primarily of franchisee contributions to advertising funds in those markets where our subsidiaries manage an advertising fund and are calculated as a percentage of franchised restaurant sales over the term of the franchise agreement. Under our franchise agreements, advertising contributions received from franchisees must be spent on advertising, product development, marketing, and related activities. We determined our advertising and promotion management services do not represent individually distinct performance obligations and are included in the Franchise PO.

Other services revenues consist primarily of tech fees and revenues, that vary by market, and partially offset expenses related to technology initiatives. These services are distinct from the Franchise PO because they are not dependent upon the franchise license or highly interrelated with the franchise license.

Supply Chain Cost of Sales

Cost of sales consists primarily of costs associated with the management of our Tim Hortons supply chain, including cost of goods, direct labor, depreciation, bad debt expense (recoveries) from supply chain sales and cost of products sold to retailers.

Company Restaurant Expenses

Company restaurant expenses include food, beverage and packaging costs, restaurant wages and related expenses and restaurant occupancy and other expenses.

Franchise and Property Expenses

Franchise and property expenses consist primarily of depreciation of properties leased to franchisees, rental expense associated with properties subleased to franchisees, amortization of franchise agreements and reacquired franchise rights, and bad debt expense (recoveries) from franchise and property revenues.

Advertising Expenses and Other Services

Advertising expenses and other services consist primarily of expenses relating to marketing, advertising, promotion, and technology initiatives for the respective brands, bad debt expense (recoveries) from franchisee contributions to advertising funds we manage, depreciation and amortization and other related support functions for the respective brands. Additionally, we may incur discretionary expenses to fund advertising programs in connection with periodic initiatives.

Company restaurants and franchised restaurants contribute to advertising funds that our subsidiaries manage in the United States and Canada and certain other international markets. The advertising funds expense the production costs of advertising when the advertisements are first aired or displayed. All other advertising and promotional costs are expensed in the period incurred. The advertising contributions by Company restaurants are eliminated in consolidation. Consolidated advertising expense totaled $1,268 million, $1,201 million and $1,032 million in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Deferred Financing Costs

Deferred financing costs are amortized over the term of the related debt agreement into interest expense using the effective interest method.

Income Taxes

Amounts in the Financial Statements related to income taxes are calculated using the principles of Accounting Standards Codification Topic 740, Income Taxes. Under these principles, deferred tax assets and liabilities reflect the impact of temporary differences between the amounts of assets and liabilities recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amounts recognized for tax purposes, as well as tax credit carry-forwards and loss carry-forwards. These deferred taxes are measured by applying currently enacted tax rates. A deferred tax asset is recognized when it is considered more-likely-than-not to be realized. The effects of changes in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized in income in the year in which the law is enacted. A valuation allowance reduces deferred tax assets when it is more-likely-than-not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

We recognize positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return in the Financial Statements when it is more-likely-than-not (i.e., a likelihood of more than 50%) that the position would be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. A recognized tax position is then measured at the largest amount of benefit with greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement.

Translation gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of foreign deferred tax assets or liabilities denominated in a currency other than the functional currency are classified as other operating expenses (income), net in the consolidated statements of operations.

Share-based Compensation

Compensation expense related to the issuance of share-based awards to our employees is measured at fair value on the grant date. The fair value of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) is generally based on the closing price of RBI's common shares on the trading day preceding the date of grant. Our total shareholder return and if applicable our total shareholder return relative to our peer group is incorporated into the underlying assumptions using a Monte Carlo simulation valuation model to calculate grant date fair value for performance based awards with a market condition. Stock option awards are granted with an exercise price or market value equal to the closing price of RBI common shares on the trading day preceding the date of grant. The Black-Scholes option pricing model is used to value stock options. The compensation expense for awards that vest over a future service period is recognized over the requisite service period on a straight-line basis, adjusted for estimated forfeitures of awards that are not expected to vest. We use historical data to estimate forfeitures for share-based awards. The compensation expense for awards that contain performance conditions is recognized when it is probable that the performance conditions will be achieved.

Supplier Finance Programs

Our Tim Hortons business includes individually negotiated contracts with suppliers, which include payment terms that range up to 120 days. A global financial institution offers a voluntary supply chain finance (“SCF”) program to certain Tim Hortons vendors, which provides suppliers that elect to participate with the ability to elect early payment, which is discounted based on the payment terms and a rate based on RBI's credit rating, which may be beneficial to the vendor. Participation in the SCF program is at the sole discretion of the suppliers and financial institution and we are not a party to the arrangements between the suppliers and the financial institution. Our obligations to suppliers are not affected by the suppliers’ decisions to participate in the SCF program and our payment terms remain the same based on the original supplier invoicing terms and conditions. No guarantees are provided by us or any of our subsidiaries in connection with the SCF Program.

Our confirmed outstanding obligations under the SCF program are classified as Accounts and drafts payable in our consolidated balance sheets. All activity related to the obligations is classified as Cost of sales in our consolidated statements of operations and presented within cash flows from operating activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows. The following table reflects the change of our confirmed outstanding obligations under the SCF program between December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024 (in millions):

Reclassifications

Certain prior year amounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes to the consolidated financial statements have been reclassified in order to be comparable with the current year classifications. These reclassifications did not arise as a result of any changes to accounting policies and relate entirely to presentation with no effect on previously reported net income.

New Accounting Pronouncements

Segment Reporting – In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance that expands segment disclosures for public entities, including requiring disclosure of significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”), the title and position of the CODM and an explanation of how the CODM uses reported measures of segment profit or loss in assessing segment performance and allocating resources. The new guidance also expands disclosures about a reportable segment’s profit or loss and assets in interim periods and clarifies that a public entity may report additional measures of segment profit if the CODM uses more than one measure of a segment’s profit or loss. The new guidance does not remove existing segment disclosure requirements or change how a public entity identifies its operating segments, aggregates those operating segments, or determines its reportable segments. During the fourth quarter of 2024, we adopted this guidance and added necessary disclosures upon adoption as disclosed in Note 18, Segment Reporting and Geographical Information.

Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures – In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance that expands income tax disclosures for public entities, including requiring enhanced disclosures related to the rate reconciliation and income taxes paid information. The guidance is effective for annual disclosures for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The guidance should be applied on a prospective basis, with retrospective application to all prior periods presented in the financial statements permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact this new guidance will have on our disclosures upon adoption and expect to provide additional detail and disclosures under this new guidance.

Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses – In November 2024, the FASB issued guidance that requires disclosure of disaggregated information about certain income statement expense line items. The guidance is effective for annual disclosures for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and subsequent interim periods with early adoption permitted, and requires retrospective application to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. We are currently evaluating the impact this new guidance will have on our disclosures upon adoption and expect to provide additional detail and disclosures under this new guidance.

Note 3. Carrols Acquisition

Prior to May 16, 2024, we owned a 15% equity interest in Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. (“Carrols”), which was accounted for as an equity method investment. On May 16, 2024, we acquired the remaining 85% of Carrols issued and outstanding shares that were not already held by us or our affiliates for $9.55 per share in an all cash transaction (the “Carrols Acquisition”) in order to accelerate the reimaging of restaurants before refranchising the majority of the acquired portfolio to new or existing smaller franchise operations. The Carrols Acquisition was accounted for as a business combination by applying the acquisition method of accounting and Carrols became our wholly owned consolidated subsidiary.

The acquisition of the 85% equity interest of Carrols was accounted for as a step acquisition, which required remeasurement of our existing 15% ownership interest in Carrols to fair value. We utilized the $9.55 per share acquisition price to determine the fair value of the existing equity interest. This resulted in an increase in the value of our existing 15% equity interest and the recognition of a gain of $79 million (the “Step Acquisition Gain”), which is included in (Income) loss from equity method investments in our consolidated statements of operations for 2024.

Total cash paid in connection with the Carrols Acquisition was $543 million. Additionally, in connection with the Carrols Acquisition, we assumed approximately $431 million of outstanding debt, all of which was fully extinguished as of June 30, 2024. The cash purchase price and extinguishment of debt assumed in the Carrols Acquisition was funded with a combination of cash on hand and $750 million of incremental borrowings under our senior secured term loan facility.

The following table summarizes the purchase price consideration in connection with the Carrols Acquisition (in millions):

(a)Effective settlement of pre-existing balances with Carrols related to franchise and lease agreements prior to the date of acquisition.

Fees and expenses related to the Carrols Acquisition and related financings totaled approximately $11 million during 2024, consisting of professional fees and compensation-related expenses which are classified as general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations (the “Carrols Acquisition Costs”).

During the fourth quarter of 2024, we adjusted our preliminary estimate of the fair value of net assets acquired. The preliminary allocation of consideration to the net tangible and intangible assets acquired is presented in the table below (in millions):

The adjustments to the preliminary estimate of net assets acquired resulted in a $16 million increase to the preliminary estimated goodwill, primarily reflecting a $22 million decrease in the estimated fair value of reacquired franchise rights, partially offset by changes in estimated fair values of other net assets acquired.

The purchase price allocation reflects preliminary fair value estimates for property and equipment, deferred income taxes and goodwill, which are based on management's analysis, including preliminary work performed by third-party valuation specialists. During the measurement period, we will continue to obtain information to assist in determining and finalizing the fair value of these items.

Reacquired franchise rights, which represent the fair value of reacquired franchise agreements determined using the excess earnings method, are amortized over the remaining term of the reacquired franchise agreement and have an estimated weighted average remaining term of 12 years.

Goodwill is considered to represent the value associated with the workforce and synergies anticipated to be realized as a combined company. Goodwill will be allocated to reporting units when the purchase price allocation is finalized during the measurement period.

Total revenues of Carrols from the acquisition date of May 16, 2024 through December 31, 2024, which have been included within Company restaurant sales in our consolidated financial statements, totaled $1,171 million.

Supplemental Pro Forma Information

The following table presents unaudited supplemental pro forma consolidated revenue for 2024 and 2023 as if the Carrols Acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2023 (in millions):

The unaudited supplemental pro forma consolidated revenue gives effect to actual revenues prior to the Carrols Acquisition, adjusted to exclude the elimination of intercompany transactions. Other than the impact of the Step Acquisition Gain and Carrols Acquisition Costs (as discussed above), supplemental pro forma net earnings, assuming the Carrols Acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2023, would not be materially different from the results reported during 2024 and 2023.

The unaudited pro forma information has been prepared for comparative purposes only, in accordance with the acquisition method of accounting, and is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that would have occurred if the Carrols Acquisition had been completed on the date indicated, nor is it indicative of our future operating results.

Note 4. Earnings per Share

An economic interest in Partnership common equity is held by the holders of Class B exchangeable limited partnership units (the “Partnership exchangeable units”), which is reflected as a noncontrolling interest in our equity. See Note 13, Shareholders’ Equity.

Basic and diluted earnings per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. We apply the treasury stock method to determine the dilutive weighted average common shares represented by outstanding equity awards, unless the effect of their inclusion is anti-dilutive. The diluted earnings per share calculation assumes conversion of 100% of the Partnership exchangeable units under the “if converted” method. Accordingly, the numerator is also adjusted to include the earnings allocated to the holders of noncontrolling interests.

The following table summarizes the basic and diluted earnings per share calculations (in millions, except per share amounts):

(a)Diluted weighted average common shares and earnings per share may not recalculate exactly as it is calculated based on unrounded numbers.

Note 5. Property and Equipment, net

Property and equipment, net, consist of the following (in millions):

Depreciation and amortization expense on property and equipment totaled $186 million for 2024, $137 million for 2023 and $135 million for 2022.

Included in our property and equipment, net at December 31, 2024 and 2023 are $211 million and $226 million, respectively, of assets leased under finance leases (mostly buildings and improvements), net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $120 million and $109 million, respectively.

Note 6. Intangible Assets, net and Goodwill

Intangible assets, net and goodwill consist of the following (in millions):

Amortization expense on intangible assets totaled $58 million for 2024, $37 million for 2023, and $39 million for 2022. The changes in reacquired franchise rights and goodwill balances during 2024 was primarily due to the Carrols Acquisition. Refer to Note 3, Carrols Acquisition, for a description of goodwill and intangible assets recognized in connection with the Carrols Acquisition. Additionally, the changes in intangible assets and goodwill balances also reflect the impact of foreign currency translation during 2024.

As of December 31, 2024, the estimated future amortization expense on identifiable assets subject to amortization is as follows (in millions):

Note 7. Equity Method Investments

As discussed in Note 3, Carrols Acquisition, prior to May 16, 2024, we owned a 15% equity interest in Carrols, which was accounted for as an equity method investment. In connection with the Carrols Acquisition, we acquired the remaining 85% equity interest in Carrols, resulting in the Step Acquisition Gain. As a result of the Carrols Acquisition, Carrols became a wholly owned consolidated subsidiary beginning on May 16, 2024.

The aggregate carrying amount of our equity method investments was $113 million and $163 million as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and is included as a component of Other assets, net in our consolidated balance sheets.

Except for the following equity method investments, no quoted market prices are available for our other equity method investments. The aggregate market value of our 9.4% equity interest in Zamp S.A. (formerly BK Brasil Operação e Assessoria a Restaurantes S.A.) based on the quoted market price on December 31, 2024 is approximately $9 million. The aggregate market value of our 4.2% equity interest in TH International Limited based on the quoted market price on December 31, 2024 was approximately $5 million. We evaluate declines in the market value of these equity method investments and as a result, during 2022, we recognized an impairment of $15 million due to a sustained decline in Carrols' share price and market capitalization.

We have equity interests in entities that own or franchise Tim Hortons, Burger King and Popeyes restaurants. Revenues recognized from franchisees that are owned or franchised by entities in which we have an equity interest, including Carrols through May 15, 2024, consist of the following (in millions):

At December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had $44 million and $61 million, respectively, of accounts receivable, net from our equity method investments which were recorded in accounts and notes receivable, net in our consolidated balance sheets.

With respect to our Tim Hortons business, the most significant equity method investment is our 50% joint venture interest with The Wendy’s Company (the “TIMWEN Partnership”), which jointly holds real estate underlying Canadian combination restaurants. Distributions received from this joint venture were $14 million during 2024 and $13 million during 2023 and 2022.

We recognized rent expense associated with the TIMWEN Partnership of $21 million during 2024 and 2023 and $19 million during 2022.

(Income) loss from equity method investments reflects our share of investee net income or loss as well as gains or losses from changes in our ownership interests in equity investees.

In June 2024, we acquired the Popeyes China (“PLK China”) business from Tims China (“the PLK China Acquisition”). In addition, Tims China issued us a $20 million three-year convertible note due June 28, 2027 and a $5 million three-year convertible note due August 15, 2027, which are included within other assets, net in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2024.

Note 8. Other Accrued Liabilities and Other Liabilities

Other accrued liabilities (current) and other liabilities, net (non-current) consist of the following (in millions):

Note 9. Long-Term Debt

Long-term debt consists of the following (in millions):

Credit Facilities

On September 21, 2023, two of our subsidiaries (the “Borrowers”) entered into a seventh amendment (the “7 th Amendment”) to the credit agreement governing our senior secured term loan A facility (the “Term Loan A”), our senior secured term loan B facility (the “Term Loan B” and together with the Term Loan A, the “Term Loan Facilities”) and our senior secured revolving credit facility (including revolving loans, swingline loans and letters of credit) (the “Revolving Credit Facility” and together with the Term Loan Facilities, the “Credit Facilities”). Under the 7 th Amendment we (i) amended the existing Revolving Credit Facility to increase the availability from $1,000 million to $1,250 million and extended the maturity of the facility to September 21, 2028 without changing the leverage-based spread to adjusted SOFR (Secured Overnight Financing Rate); (ii) increased the Term Loan A to $1,275 million and extended the maturity of the Term Loan A to September 21, 2028 without changing the leverage-based spread to adjusted SOFR; (iii) increased the Term Loan B to $5,175 million, extended the maturity of the Term Loan B to September 21, 2030, and changed the interest rate applicable to borrowings under our Term Loan B to term SOFR, subject to a floor of 0.00%, plus an applicable margin of 2.25%; and (iv) made certain other changes as set forth therein, including removing the 0.10% adjustment to the term SOFR rate across the facilities and changes to certain covenants to provide increased flexibility. On December 28, 2023, we entered into an eighth amendment (the “8 th Amendment” and together with the 7 th Amendment, the “2023 Amendments”) to the credit agreement whereby Partnership and its subsidiaries became guarantors, subject to the covenants applicable to the Credit Facilities. The 2023 Amendments made no other material changes to the terms of the credit agreement.

On May 16, 2024, the Borrowers entered into a sixth incremental facility amendment and a ninth amendment (the “First 2024 Amendment”) to the credit agreement governing our Credit Facilities. The First 2024 Amendment increased the existing Term Loan B by $750 million to $5,912 million on the same terms as the existing Term Loan B. The First 2024 Amendment also amended the interest rate applicable to the Canadian dollar loans under the credit agreement to be based on Term Canadian Overnight Repo Rate Average (“CORRA”). The security and guarantees under the amended Credit Agreement are the same as those under the existing facilities. The First 2024 Amendment made no other material changes to the terms of the Credit Agreement. The proceeds from the increase in the Term Loan B were used, along with cash on hand, to complete the Carrols Acquisition, the repayment of amounts outstanding under the Carrols' credit agreement and the redemption and discharge of Carrols' outstanding senior notes.

On June 17, 2024, the Borrowers entered into a tenth amendment to the credit agreement governing our Credit Facilities (the “Second 2024 Amendment”). The Second 2024 Amendment repriced our Term Loan B from an interest rate equal to the Adjusted Term SOFR plus 2.25% to an interest rate equal to the Adjusted Term SOFR Rate plus 1.75% and reduced the outstanding principal amount of the Term Loan B facility from $5,912 million to $4,750 million using a portion of the net proceeds from the issuance of the 6.125% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029 (defined below). There were no changes to the maturity of the Term Loan B following this repricing and all other terms are substantially unchanged.

As of December 31, 2024, the interest rate applicable to the Term Loan A and Revolving Credit Facility is, at our option, either (a) a base rate, subject to a floor of 1.00%, plus an applicable margin varying from 0.00% to 0.50%, or (b) term SOFR, subject to a floor of 0.00%, plus an applicable margin varying between 0.75% and 1.50%, in each case, determined by reference to a net first lien leverage-based pricing grid. The commitment fee on the unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility is 0.15%. As of December 31, 2024, the interest rate on the Term Loan A was 5.61%. The principal amount of the Term Loan A amortizes in quarterly installments equal to $8 million beginning March 31, 2025 and $16 million beginning March 31, 2027 until maturity, with the balance payable at maturity.

As of December 31, 2024, the interest rate applicable to the Term Loan B is, at our option, either (a) a base rate, subject to a floor of 1.00%, plus an applicable margin of 0.75%, or (b) term SOFR, subject to a floor of 0.00%, plus an applicable margin of 1.75%. As of December 31, 2024, the interest rate on the Term Loan B was 6.11%. The principal amount of the Term Loan B amortizes in quarterly installments equal to $12 million until maturity, with the balance payable at maturity.

Revolving Credit Facility

As of December 31, 2024, we hadno amounts outstanding under our Revolving Credit Facility. Funds available under the Revolving Credit Facility may be used to repay other debt, finance debt or share repurchases, to fund acquisitions or capital expenditures and for other general corporate purposes. We have a $125 million letter of credit sublimit as part of the Revolving Credit Facility, which reduces our borrowing availability thereunder by the cumulative amount of outstanding letters of credit. The interest rate applicable to amounts drawn under each letter of credit is 0.75% to 1.50%, depending on our net first lien leverage ratio. As of December 31, 2024, we had $2 million of letters of credit issued against the Revolving Credit Facility, and our borrowing availability was $1,248 million.

Obligations under the Credit Facilities are guaranteed on a senior secured basis, jointly and severally, by the Partnership and substantially all of its Canadian and U.S. subsidiaries, including The TDL Group Corp., Burger King Company LLC, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc., FRG, LLC and substantially all of their respective Canadian and U.S. subsidiaries (the “Guarantors”). Amounts borrowed under the Credit Facilities are secured on a first priority basis by a perfected security interest in substantially all of the present and future property (subject to certain exceptions) of each Borrower and the Guarantors.

Senior Notes

3.875% First Lien Senior Notes due 2028

On September 24, 2019, the Borrowers entered into an indenture (the “3.875% First Lien Senior Notes Indenture”) in connection with the issuance of $750 million of 3.875% first lien senior notes due January 15, 2028 (the “20193.875% Senior Notes”). On July 6, 2021, the Borrowers issued an additional $800 million under the 3.875% First Lien Senior Notes Indenture (the “Additional Notes” and together with the 20193.875% Senior Notes, the “3.875% First Lien Senior Notes due 2028”). No principal payments are due until maturity and interest is paid semi-annually. The Additional Notes were priced at 100.250% of their face value. The net proceeds from the offering of the Additional Notes were used to redeem the remaining $775 million principal amount outstanding of 4.25% first lien senior notes, plus any accrued and unpaid interest thereon, and pay related redemption premiums, fees and expenses.

3.50% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029

On November 9, 2020, the Borrowers entered into an indenture (the “3.50% First Lien Senior Notes Indenture”) in connection with the issuance of $750 million of 3.50% first lien notes due February 15, 2029 (the “3.50% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029”). No principal payments are due until maturity and interest is paid semi-annually. The proceeds from the offering of the 3.50% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029, together with cash on hand, were used to redeem $725 million of 4.25% first lien senior notes and pay related redemption premiums, fees and expenses.

6.125% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029

On June 17, 2024, the Borrowers entered into an indenture (the “6.125% First Lien Senior Notes Indenture”) in connection with the issuance of $1,200 million of 6.125% first lien senior notes due June 15, 2029 (the “6.125% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029”). No principal payments are due until maturity and interest is paid semi-annually. The net proceeds from the offering of the 6.125% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029 were used to refinance a portion of the Term Loan B, pay related fees and expenses and for general corporate purposes.

5.625% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029

On September 13, 2024, the Borrowers entered into an indenture (the “5.625% First Lien Senior Notes Indenture”) in connection with the issuance of $500 million of 5.625% first lien senior notes due September 15, 2029 (the “5.625% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029”). No principal payments are due until maturity and interest is paid semi-annually. The net proceeds from the offering of the 5.625% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029, together with cash on hand, were used to redeem in full our outstanding 5.750% first lien senior notes due 2025 and pay related fees and expenses.

5.75% First Lien Senior Notes due 2025

On April 7, 2020, the Borrowers entered into an indenture (the “5.75% First Lien Senior Notes Indenture”) in connection with the issuance of $500 million of 5.75% first lien notes due April 15, 2025 (the “5.75% First Lien Senior Notes due 2025”). During 2024, we redeemed the entire outstanding principal balance of $500 million of the 5.75% First Lien Senior Notes due 2025 using proceeds from the offering of the 5.625% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029.

4.375% Second Lien Senior Notes due 2028

On November 19, 2019, the Borrowers entered into an indenture (the “4.375% Second Lien Senior Notes Indenture”) in connection with the issuance of $750 million of 4.375% second lien senior notes due January 15, 2028 (the “4.375% Second Lien Senior Notes due 2028”). No principal payments are due until maturity and interest is paid semi-annually.

4.00% Second Lien Senior Notes due 2030

During 2020, the Borrowers entered into an indenture (the “4.00% Second Lien Senior Notes Indenture”) in connection with the issuance of $2,900 million of 4.00% second lien notes due October 15, 2030 (the “4.00% Second Lien Senior Notes due 2030”). No principal payments are due until maturity and interest is paid semi-annually. The proceeds from the offering of the 4.00% Second Lien Senior Notes due 2030 were used to redeem the entire outstanding principal balance of $2,800 million of 5.00% second lien senior notes due October 15, 2025 (the “5.00% Second Lien Senior Notes due 2025”), pay related redemption premiums, fees and expenses.

Obligations under the 3.875% First Lien Senior Notes due 2028, the 3.50% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029, the 6.125% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029 and the 5.625% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029 (collectively, the “First Lien Senior Note”) are guaranteed on a senior secured basis, jointly and severally, by the Guarantors. The First Lien Senior Notes are first lien senior secured obligations and rank equal in right of payment with all of the existing and future first lien senior debt of the Borrowers and Guarantors, including borrowings and guarantees under our Credit Facilities.

Obligations under the 4.375% Second Lien Senior Notes due 2028 and the 4.00% Second Lien Senior Notes due 2030 (together, the “Second Lien Senior Notes” and together with the First Lien Senior Notes, the “Senior Notes”) are guaranteed on a second priority senior secured basis, jointly and severally, by the Guarantors. The Second Lien Senior Notes are second lien senior secured obligations and rank equal in right of payment with all of the existing and future senior debt of the Borrowers and Guarantors, including borrowings and guarantees of the Credit Facilities, and effectively subordinated to all of the existing and future first lien senior debt of the Borrowers and Guarantors.

The Borrowers may redeem a series of Senior Notes, in whole or in part, at any time at the redemption prices set forth in the applicable Senior Notes Indenture; provided that if the redemption is prior to October 15, 2025 for the 4.00% Second Lien Senior Notes due 2030, June 15, 2026 for the 6.125% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029, and September 15, 2026 for the 5.625% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029, it will instead be at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount redeemed plus a “make-whole” premium, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the redemption date. The Senior Notes Indentures (as defined below) also contain redemption provisions related to tender offers, change of control and equity offerings, among others.

Restrictions and Covenants

Our Credit Facilities, as well as the 3.875% First Lien Senior Notes Indenture,3.50% First Lien Senior Notes Indenture,6.125% First Lien Senior Notes,5.625% First Lien Senior Notes,4.375% Second Lien Senior Notes Indenture and 4.00% Second Lien Senior Notes Indenture (all together the “Senior Notes Indentures”) contain a number of customary affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, limit or restrict our ability and the ability of certain of our subsidiaries to: incur additional indebtedness; incur liens; engage in mergers, consolidations, liquidations and dissolutions; sell assets; pay dividends and make other payments in respect of capital stock; make investments, loans and advances; pay or modify the terms of certain indebtedness; and engage in certain transactions with affiliates. In addition, under the Credit Facilities, the Borrowers are not permitted to exceed a first lien senior secured leverage ratio of 6.50 to 1.00 when, as of the end of any fiscal quarter beginning with the first fiscal quarter of 2020, (1) any amounts are outstanding under the Term Loan A and/or (2) the sum of (i) the amount of letters of credit outstanding exceeding $50 million (other than those that are cash collateralized); (ii) outstanding amounts under the Revolving Credit Facility and (iii) outstanding amounts of swing line loans, exceeds 30.0% of the commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility.

The restrictions under the Credit Facilities and the Senior Notes Indentures have resulted in substantially all of our consolidated assets being restricted.

As of December 31, 2024, we were in compliance with applicable financial debt covenants under the Credit Facilities and the Senior Notes Indentures and there were no limitations on our ability to draw on the remaining availability under our Revolving Credit Facility.

TH Facility

One of our subsidiaries entered into a non-revolving delayed drawdown term credit facility in a total aggregate principal amount of C$225 million with a maturity date of October 4, 2025 (the “TH Facility”). Prior to June 30, 2024, the interest rate applicable to the TH Facility was the Canadian Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus an applicable margin equal to 1.40% or the Prime Rate plus an applicable margin equal to 0.40%, at our option. Beginning July 1, 2024, the interest rate applicable to the TH Facility is the Adjusted Term CORRA rate plus an applicable margin equal to 1.40% or the Prime Rate plus an applicable margin equal to 0.40%, at our option. Obligations under the TH Facility are guaranteed bythree of our subsidiaries, and amounts borrowed under the TH Facility are secured by certain parcels of real estate. As of December 31, 2024, we had approximately C$154 million outstanding under the TH Facility with a weighted average interest rate of 5.37%.

Debt Issuance Costs

During 2024, we incurred aggregate deferred financing costs of $41 million in connection with the First 2024 Amendment, the Second 2024 Amendment, the issuance of the 6.125% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029 and the issuance of the 5.625% First Lien Senior Notes due 2029. During 2023, we incurred aggregate deferred financing costs of $44 million in connection with the 7 th Amendment. We didnot incur any significant deferred financing costs during 2022.

Loss on Early Extinguishment of Debt

During 2024, we recorded a $33 million loss on early extinguishment of debt that primarily reflects expensing of fees and the write-off of unamortized debt issuance costs in connection with various amendments to our credit agreement and the full redemption of our outstanding 5.750% first lien senior notes due 2025. During 2023, we recorded a $16 million loss on early extinguishment of debt that primarily reflects expensing of fees in connection with the 7 th Amendment and the write-off of unamortized debt issuance costs.

Maturities

The aggregate maturities of our long-term debt as of December 31, 2024 are as follows (in millions):

Interest Expense, net

Interest expense, net consists of the following (in millions):

(a)Amount includes $135 million and $83 million benefit during 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $54 million of expense during 2022 related to our interest rate swaps. Amount includes $53 million, $61 million and $56 million benefit during 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, related to the quarterly net settlements of our cross-currency rate swaps and amortization of the Excluded Component as defined in Note 12, Derivative Instruments.

Note 10. Leases

As of December 31, 2024, we leased or subleased approximately 4,600 restaurant properties to franchisees under operating leases, direct financing leases and sales-type leases where we are the lessor. Initial lease terms generally range from 10 to 20 years. Most leases to franchisees provide for fixed monthly payments and many provide for future rent escalations and renewal options. Certain leases also include provisions for variable rent, determined as a percentage of sales, generally when annual sales exceed specific levels. Lessees typically bear the cost of maintenance, insurance and property taxes.

We lease land, buildings, equipment, office space and warehouse space from third parties. Land and building leases generally have an initial term of 10 to 20 years, while land-only lease terms can extend longer, and most leases provide for fixed monthly payments. Many of these leases provide for future rent escalations and renewal options. Certain leases also include provisions for variable rent payments, determined as a percentage of sales, generally when annual sales exceed specified levels. Most leases also obligate us to pay, as lessee, variable lease cost related to maintenance, insurance and property taxes.

Company as Lessor

Assets leased to franchisees and others under operating leases where we are the lessor and which are included within our property and equipment, net are as follows (in millions):

Our net investment in direct financing and sales-type leases is as follows (in millions):

(a)Amounts represent estimated contingent rents recorded in connection with the acquisition method of accounting.

(b)Included as a component of Other assets, net in our consolidated balance sheets.

Property revenues are comprised primarily of rental income from operating leases and earned income on direct financing leases with franchisees as follows (in millions):

Company as Lessee

Lease cost and other information associated with these lease commitments are as follows (in millions):

Lease Cost (Income)

Lease Term and Discount Rate as of December 31, 2024 and 2023

Other Information for 2024, 2023 and 2022

As of December 31, 2024, future minimum lease receipts and commitments are as follows (in millions):

(a)Minimum lease payments have not been reduced by minimum sublease rentals of $1,380 million due in the future under non-cancelable subleases.

(b)Current portion of operating lease obligations included as a component of Other accrued liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets.

As of December 31, 2024, we have executed real estate leases that have not yet commenced with estimated future nominal lease payments of approximately $26 million, which are not included in the tables above. These leases are expected to commence in 2025 with lease terms of generally 10 to 20 years.

Note 11. Income Taxes

Income before income taxes, classified by source of income, is as follows (in millions):

Income tax expense (benefit) attributable to income from continuing operations consists of the following (in millions):

The statutory rate reconciles to the effective income tax rate as follows:

Companies subject to the Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income provision (GILTI) have the option to account for the GILTI tax as a period cost if and when incurred, or to recognize deferred taxes for outside basis temporary differences expected to reverse as GILTI. We have elected to account for GILTI as a period cost.

Income tax (benefit) expense allocated to continuing operations and amounts separately allocated to other items was (in millions):

The significant components of deferred income tax (benefit) expense attributable to income from continuing operations are as follows (in millions):

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are presented below (in millions):

The valuation allowance had a net increase of $25 million during 2024 primarily due to changes in estimates and foreign tax credits.

Changes in the valuation allowance are as follows (in millions):

The gross amount and expiration dates of operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards as of December 31, 2024 are as follows (in millions):

We are generally permanently reinvested on any potential outside basis differences except for unremitted earnings and profits and thus do not record a deferred tax liability for such outside basis differences. To the extent of unremitted earnings and profits, we generally review various factors including, but not limited to, forecasts and budgets of financial needs of cash for working capital, liquidity and expected cash requirements to fund our various obligations and record deferred taxes to the extent we expect to distribute.

We had $44 million and $58 million of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, which if recognized, would favorably affect the effective income tax rate. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in millions):

Although the timing of the resolution, settlement, and closure of any audits is highly uncertain, it is reasonably possible that the balance of gross unrecognized tax benefits could significantly change in the next 12 months. We do not expect to reduce unrecognized tax benefits during the twelve months beginning January 1, 2025.

We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. The total amount of accrued interest and penalties was $12 million and $11 million at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Potential interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions in various jurisdictions recognized was $3 million during 2024, $4 million during 2023 and $3 million during 2022. To the extent interest and penalties are not assessed with respect to uncertain tax positions, amounts accrued will be reduced and reflected as a reduction of the overall income tax provision.

We file income tax returns with Canada and its provinces and territories. Generally, we are subject to routine examinations by the Canada Revenue Agency (“CRA”). The CRA is conducting examinations of the 2015 through 2020 taxation years. Additionally, income tax returns filed with various provincial jurisdictions are generally open to examination for periods up tosix years subsequent to the filing and assessment of the respective return.

We also file income tax returns, including returns for our subsidiaries, with U.S. federal, U.S. state, and other foreign jurisdictions. We are subject to routine examination by taxing authorities in the U.S. jurisdictions, as well as other foreign tax jurisdictions. Taxable years of such U.S. companies are closed through 2020 for U.S. federal income tax purposes. We have various U.S. federal, state and other foreign income tax returns in the process of examination. From time to time, these audits result in proposed assessments where the ultimate resolution may result in owing additional taxes. We believe that our tax positions comply with applicable tax law and that we have adequately provided for these matters.

Note 12. Derivative Instruments

Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

We enter into derivative instruments for risk management purposes, including derivatives designated as cash flow hedges and derivatives designated as net investment hedges. We use derivatives to manage our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates and currency exchange rates.

Interest Rate Swaps

At December 31, 2024, we had outstanding receive-variable, pay-fixed interest rate swaps with a total notional value of $3,500 million to hedge the variability in the interest payments on a portion of our Term Loan Facilities, including any subsequent refinancing or replacement of the Term Loan Facilities, beginning August 31, 2021 through the termination date of October 31, 2028. Additionally, at December 31, 2024, we also had outstanding receive-variable, pay-fixed interest rate swaps with a total notional value of $500 million to hedge the variability in the interest payments on a portion of our Term Loan Facilities effective September 30, 2019 through the termination date of September 30, 2026. Following the discontinuance of the U.S. dollar LIBOR after June 30, 2023, the interest rate on all these interest rate swaps transitioned from LIBOR to SOFR, with no impact to hedge effectiveness and no change in accounting treatment as a result of applicable accounting relief guidance for the transition away from LIBOR. At inception, all of these interest rate swaps were designated as cash flow hedges for hedge accounting. The unrealized changes in market value are recorded in AOCI, net of tax, and reclassified into interest expense during the period in which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings.

In connection with the Carrols Acquisition, we assumed a receive-variable, pay-fixed interest rate swap utilizing SOFR as the benchmark interest rate with a total notional value of $120 million to hedge the variability in the interest payments on a portion of our Term Loan Facilities, including any subsequent refinancing or replacement of the Term Loan Facilities, through the termination date of February 28, 2025. This interest rate swap is designated as a cash flow hedge for hedge accounting and the unrealized changes in market value are recorded in AOCI, net of tax, and reclassified into interest expense during the period in which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings.

At December 31, 2024, the net amount of pre-tax gains that we expect to be reclassified from AOCI into interest expense within the next 12 months is $89 million.

Cross-Currency Rate Swaps

To protect the value of our investments in our foreign operations against adverse changes in foreign currency exchange rates, we hedge a portion of our net investment in one or more of our foreign subsidiaries by using cross-currency rate swaps. At December 31, 2024, we had outstanding cross-currency rate swap contracts between the Canadian dollar and U.S. dollar and the euro and U.S. dollar that have been designated as net investment hedges of a portion of our equity in foreign operations in those currencies. The component of the gains and losses on our net investment in these designated foreign operations driven by changes in foreign exchange rates are economically partly offset by movements in the fair value of our cross-currency swap contracts. The fair value of the swaps is calculated each period with changes in fair value reported in AOCI, net of tax. Such amounts will remain in AOCI until the complete or substantially complete liquidation of our investment in the underlying foreign operations.

At December 31, 2024, we had outstanding cross-currency rate swaps in which we receive quarterly fixed-rate interest payments on the U.S. dollar notional value of $5,700 million to partially hedge the net investment in our Canadian subsidiaries. In November 2024, we restructured $5,000 million of cross-currency rate swaps, of which $1,950 million have a maturity of September 30, 2028, $1,400 million have a maturity of October 31, 2029 and $1,650 million have a maturity of October 31, 2030. The restructure resulted in a re-designation of the hedge and the swaps continue to be accounted for as a net investment hedge. Additionally, in November 2024 we entered into cross-currency rate swaps in which we receive quarterly fixed-rate interest payments on the U.S. dollar notional value of $700 million through the maturity date of October 31, 2027 (“incremental swaps”). At inception, these cross-currency rate swaps were designated as a hedge and are accounted for as a net investment hedge. Excluding the incremental swaps, at all times during 2024, 2023, and 2022, we have had $5,000 million of notional amount of cross-currency rate swaps between the Canadian dollar and U.S. dollar designated as hedges.

During 2022, we de-designated existing cross-currency rate swap hedges between the Canadian dollar and U.S. dollar with a total notional amount of $5,000 million for hedge accounting. As a result of these de-designations, changes in fair value of these un-designated hedges were recognized in earnings. Concurrently with these de-designations and to offset the changes in fair value recognized in earnings, we entered into off-setting cross-currency rate swaps, with a total notional amount of $5,000 million, that were not designated as a hedge for hedge accounting and as such changes in fair value were recognized in earnings. The balances in AOCI associated with the de-designated cross-currency rate swaps will remain in AOCI and will only be reclassified into earnings if and when the net investment in our Canadian subsidiaries is sold or substantially sold. The entire notional amount of the de-designated cross-currency rate swaps and the off-setting cross-currency rate swaps were cash settled during 2022 for approximately $35 million in net proceeds and included within investing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.

At December 31, 2024, we had outstanding cross-currency rate swap contracts between the euro and U.S. dollar in which we receive quarterly fixed-rate interest payments on the U.S. dollar aggregate amount of $2,750 million, of which $1,400 million were entered during 2023 and have a maturity date of October 31, 2026, $1,200 million were entered during 2023 and have a maturity date of November 30, 2028, and $150 million were entered during 2021 and have a maturity date of October 31, 2028. At inception, these cross-currency rate swaps were designated and continue to be hedges and are accounted for as net investment hedges. The cross-currency rate swaps that were entered during 2023 replaced our previously existing cross-currency rate swaps with a total notional value of $2,100 million that were settled in 2023 as detailed below.

During 2023, we settled our previously existing cross-currency rate swaps in which we paid quarterly fixed-rate interest payments on the euro notional amount of €1,108 million and received quarterly fixed-rate interest payments on the U.S. dollar notional amount of $1,200 million and an original maturity date of February 17, 2024. During 2023, we also settled our previously existing cross-currency rate swap contracts between the euro and U.S. dollar with a notional value of $900 million and an original maturity date of February 17, 2024. In connection with these settlements, we received $69 million in cash which is included within investing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.

In connection with the cross-currency rate swaps hedging Canadian dollar and euro net investments, we utilize the spot method to exclude the interest component (the “Excluded Component”) from the accounting hedge without affecting net investment hedge accounting and amortize the Excluded Component over the life of the derivative instrument. The amortization of the Excluded Component is recognized in Interest expense, net in the consolidated statements of operations. The change in fair value that is not related to the Excluded Component is recorded in AOCI and will be reclassified to earnings when the foreign subsidiaries are sold or substantially liquidated.

Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts

We use foreign exchange derivative instruments to manage the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations on U.S. dollar purchases and payments, such as coffee purchases made by our Canadian Tim Hortons operations. At December 31, 2024, we had outstanding forward currency contracts to manage this risk in which we sell Canadian dollars and buy U.S. dollars with a notional value of $169 million with maturities to January 15, 2026. We have designated these instruments as cash flow hedges, and as such, the unrealized changes in market value of effective hedges are recorded in AOCI and are reclassified into earnings during the period in which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings.

Credit Risk

By entering into derivative contracts, we are exposed to counterparty credit risk. Counterparty credit risk is the failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative contract. When the fair value of a derivative contract is in an asset position, the counterparty has a liability to us, which creates credit risk for us. We attempt to minimize this risk by selecting counterparties with investment grade credit ratings and regularly monitoring our market position with each counterparty.

Credit-Risk Related Contingent Features

Our derivative instruments do not contain any credit-risk related contingent features.

Quantitative Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Fair Value Measurements

The following tables present the required quantitative disclosures for our derivative instruments, including their estimated fair values (all estimated using Level 2 inputs) and their location on our consolidated balance sheets (in millions):

(1) We did not exclude any components from the cash flow hedge relationships presented in this table.

Note 13. Shareholders’ Equity

Special Voting Share

The holders of the Partnership exchangeable units are indirectly entitled to vote in respect of matters on which holders of the common shares of the Company are entitled to vote, including in respect of the election of RBI directors, through a special voting share of the Company (the “Special Voting Share”). The Special Voting Share is held by a trustee, entitling the trustee to that number of votes on matters on which holders of common shares of the Company are entitled to vote equal to the number of Partnership exchangeable units outstanding. The trustee is required to cast such votes in accordance with voting instructions provided by holders of Partnership exchangeable units. At any shareholder meeting of the Company, holders of our common shares vote together as a single class with the Special Voting Share except as otherwise provided by law.

Noncontrolling Interests

We reflect a noncontrolling interest which primarily represents the interests of the holders of Partnership exchangeable units in Partnership that are not held by RBI. The holders of Partnership exchangeable units held an economic interest of approximately 28.1% and 29.9% in Partnership common equity through the ownership of 127,038,577 and 133,597,764 Partnership exchangeable units as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Pursuant to the terms of the partnership agreement, each holder of a Partnership exchangeable unit is entitled to distributions from Partnership in an amount equal to any dividends or distributions that we declare and pay with respect to our common shares. Additionally, each holder of a Partnership exchangeable unit is entitled to vote in respect of matters on which holders of RBI common shares are entitled to vote through our special voting share. A holder of a Partnership exchangeable unit may require Partnership to exchange all or any portion of such holder’s Partnership exchangeable units for our common shares at a ratio ofone common share for each Partnership exchangeable unit, subject to our right as the general partner of Partnership, in our sole discretion, to deliver a cash payment in lieu of our common shares. If we elect to make a cash payment in lieu of issuing common shares, the amount of the payment will be the weighted average trading price of the common shares on the New York Stock Exchange for the 20 consecutive trading days ending on the last business day prior to the exchange date.

Pursuant to exchange notices received, Partnership exchanged 6,559,187,9,398,876 and 1,996,818 Partnership exchangeable units in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. In accordance with the terms of the partnership agreement, Partnership satisfied the exchange notices by exchanging these Partnership exchangeable units for the same number of newly issued RBI common shares and each such Partnership exchangeable unit was cancelled concurrently with the exchange. Partnership exchangeable units exchanged for RBI common shares subsequent to December 31, 2023 also result in the issuance of additional Partnership Class A common units to RBI in an amount equal to the number of RBI common shares exchanged. The exchanges represented increases in our ownership interest in Partnership and were accounted for as equity transactions, withno gain or loss recorded in the consolidated statements of operations.

Share Repurchases

On August 31, 2023, our board of directors approved a share repurchase program that allows us to purchase up to $1,000 million of our common shares until September 30, 2025. This approval follows the expiration of our priortwo-year authorization to repurchase up to $1,000 million amount of our common shares. During 2024, we did not repurchase any of our common shares. During 2023, we repurchased and cancelled 7,639,137 common shares for $500 million. During 2022, we repurchased and cancelled 6,101,364 common shares for $326 million. As of December 31, 2024, we had $500 million remaining under the authorization.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table displays the change in the components of AOCI (in millions):

Note 14. Share-based Compensation

We are currently issuing awards under the 2023 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2023 Plan”) and the number of shares available for issuance under such plan as of December 31, 2024 was 13,641,631. The 2023 Plan permits the grant of several types of awards with respect to our common shares, including stock options, time-vested RSUs, and performance-based RSUs, which may include Company, S&P 500 Index and/or individual performance based-vesting conditions.

We also have some outstanding awards under legacy plans for Burger King and Tim Hortons, which were assumed in connection with the merger and amalgamation of those entities within the RBI group. No new awards may be granted under our Amended and Restated 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan as amended that preceded the 2023 Plan or these legacy Burger King or legacy Tim Hortons plans.

Share-based compensation expense is generally classified as general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations and consists of the following for the periods presented (in millions):

As of December 31, 2024, total unrecognized compensation cost related to share-based compensation arrangements was $218 million and is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.5 years.

Restricted Stock Units

RSUs are generally entitled to dividend equivalents, which are not distributed unless the related awards vest. Upon vesting, the amount of the dividend equivalent, which is distributed in additional RSUs, except in the case of RSUs awarded to non-management members of our board of directors, is equal to the equivalent of the aggregate dividends declared on common shares during the period from the date of grant of the award compounded until the date the shares underlying the award are delivered. RBI grants fully vested RSUs, with dividend equivalent rights that accrue in cash, to non-employee members of its board of directors in lieu of a cash retainer and committee fees. All such RSUs will settle and common shares of RBI will be issued following termination of service by the board member.

Starting in 2021, grants of time-vested RSUs generally vest 25% per year on December 15 th or 31 st over four years from the grant date and performance-based RSUs generally cliff vest three years from the grant date (the starting date for the applicable vesting period is referred to as the “Anniversary Date”). Time-vested RSUs and performance-based RSUs awarded prior to 2021 generally cliff vest five years from the original grant date.

During 2022, RBI granted performance-based RSUs that cliff vest three years from the original grant date based on achievement of performance metrics with a multiplier that can increase or decrease the amount vested based on the achievement of contractually defined relative total shareholder return targets with respect to the S&P 500 Index. Performance-based RSUs granted in 2021, 2023 and 2024 cliff vest three years from the original grant date based solely on defined relative total shareholder return targets with respect to the S&P 500 Index. Performance-based RSUs granted to the CEO in 2023 cliff vest five years from the date of grant and may be earned from 50% for threshold performance to 200% for maximum performance, based on meeting performance targets tied to the appreciation of the price of RBI common shares, with none of the award being earned if the threshold is not met. The respective fair value of these performance-based RSU awards was based on a Monte Carlo Simulation valuation model and these market condition awards are expensed over the vesting period. The total fair value of performance-based RSUs that solely have a performance condition relative to the S&P 500 Index does not change regardless of the value that the award recipients ultimately receive.

For grants of time-vested RSUs, if the employee is terminated for any reason prior to any vesting date, the employee will forfeit all of the RSUs that are unvested at the time of termination. For grants of performance-based RSUs beginning in 2021, if the employee is terminated within the firsttwo years of the Anniversary Date,100% of the performance-based RSUs will be forfeited. If we terminate the employment of a performance-based RSU holder without cause at leasttwo years after the grant date, or if the employee retires, the employee will become vested in 67% of the performance-based RSUs that are earned based on the performance criteria.

An alternate ratable vesting schedule applies to the extent the participant ends employment by reason of death or disability.

Chairman Awards

In connection with the appointment of the Executive Chairman in November 2022, RBI made one-time grants of options, RSUs and performance-based RSUs with specific terms and conditions. RBI granted 2,000,000 options with an exercise price equal to the closing price of RBI common shares on the trading day preceding the date of grant that cliff vest five years from the date of grant and expire afterten years. RBI granted 500,000 RSUs that vest ratably over five years on the anniversary of the grant date. Lastly, RBI granted 750,000 performance-based RSUs that cliff vest five and a half years from the date of grant and may be earned from 50% for threshold performance to 200% for maximum performance, based on meeting performance targets tied to the appreciation of the price of RBI common shares, with none of the award being earned if the threshold is not met. The respective fair value of these performance-based RSU awards was based on a Monte Carlo Simulation valuation model and these market condition awards are expensed over the vesting period regardless of the value that the award recipient ultimately receives.

Restricted Stock Units Activity

The following is a summary of time-vested RSUs and performance-based RSUs activity for the year ended December 31, 2024:

The weighted-average grant date fair value of time-vested RSUs granted was $68.40 and $57.24 during 2023 and 2022, respectively. The weighted-average grant date fair value of performance-based RSUs granted was $59.66 and $51.31 during 2023 and 2022, respectively. The total fair value, determined as of the date of vesting, of RSUs vested and converted to RBI common shares during 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $271 million, $141 million and $58 million, respectively.

Stock Options

RBI satisfies stock option exercises through the issuance of authorized but previously unissued common shares. Stock option grants generally cliff vest 5 years from the original grant date, provided the employee is continuously employed by us or one of our affiliates, and the stock options expire 10 years following the grant date. Additionally, if we terminate the employment of a stock option holder without cause prior to the vesting date, or if the employee retires or becomes disabled, the employee will become vested in the number of stock options as if the stock options vested 20% on each anniversary of the grant date. If the employee dies, the employee will become vested in the number of stock options as if the stock options vested 20% on the first anniversary of the grant date,40% on the second anniversary of the grant date and 100% on the third anniversary of the grant date. If an employee is terminated with cause or resigns before vesting, all stock options are forfeited. If there is an event such as a return of capital or dividend that is determined to be dilutive, the exercise price of the awards will be adjusted accordingly.

The following assumptions were used in the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to determine the fair value of stock option awards granted in 2022 at the grant date. There wereno significant stock option awards granted in 2024 or 2023.

The risk-free interest rate was based on the U.S. Treasury or Canadian Sovereign bond yield with a remaining term equal to the expected option life assumed at the date of grant. The expected term was calculated based on the analysis of afive-year vesting period coupled with our expectations of exercise activity. Expected volatility was based on the historical and implied equity volatility of RBI. The expected dividend yield is based on the annual dividend yield at the time of grant.

Stock Options Activity

The following is a summary of stock option activity under our plans for the year ended December 31, 2024:

(a)The intrinsic value represents the amount by which the fair value of our stock exceeds the option exercise price at December 31, 2024.

The weighted-average grant date fair value per stock option granted was $18.61, and $17.52 during 2023 and 2022, respectively. No stock options were granted in 2024. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $38 million during 2024, $30 million during 2023, and $10 million during 2022.

Note 15. Revenue Recognition

Contract Liabilities

Contract liabilities consist of deferred revenue resulting from initial and renewal franchise fees paid by franchisees, as well as upfront fees paid by master franchisees, which are generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the underlying agreement. We may recognize unamortized franchise fees and upfront fees when a contract with a franchisee or master franchisee is modified and is accounted for as a termination of the existing contract. We classify these contract liabilities as Other liabilities, net in our consolidated balance sheets. The following table reflects the change in contract liabilities on a consolidated basis between December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024 (in millions):

The following table illustrates estimated revenues expected to be recognized in the future related to performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) on a consolidated basis as of December 31, 2024 (in millions):

Disaggregation of Total Revenues

As described in Note 18, Segment Reporting and Geographical Information, following the Carrols Acquisition and PLK China Acquisition, we are reporting the operations of Burger King restaurants acquired as part of the Carrols Acquisition and the operations of PLK China restaurants in a new operating and reportable segment called Restaurant Holdings (“RH”) from the respective date of acquisition.

The following tables disaggregate revenue by segment (in millions):

(a)Represents elimination of intersegment revenues that consists of royalties, property and advertising and other services revenue recognized by BK and INTL from intersegment transactions with RH.

Note 16. Other Operating Expenses (Income), net

Other operating expenses (income), net, consist of the following (in millions):

Net losses (gains) on disposal of assets, restaurant closures, and refranchisings represent sales of properties and other costs related to restaurant closures and refranchisings. Gains and losses recognized in the current period may reflect certain costs related to closures and refranchisings that occurred in previous periods. The amount for 2023 includes asset write-offs and related costs in connection with the discontinuance of an internally developed software project.

Litigation settlements and reserves, net primarily reflects accruals and payments made and proceeds received in connection with litigation and arbitration matters and other business disputes.

Net losses (gains) on foreign exchange consist of remeasurement of foreign denominated assets and liabilities, primarily intercompany financing.

Other, net for 2023 and 2022 are primarily related to payments in connection with FHS area representative buyouts.

Note 17. Commitments and Contingencies

Letters of Credit

As of December 31, 2024, we had $24 million in irrevocable standby letters of credit outstanding, which were issued primarily to certain insurance carriers to guarantee payments of deductibles for various insurance programs, such as health and commercial liability insurance. Of these letters of credit outstanding, $2 million are secured by the collateral under our Revolving Credit Facility and the remainder are secured by cash collateral. As of December 31, 2024, no amounts had been drawn on any of these irrevocable standby letters of credit.

Purchase Commitments

As of December 31, 2024, we have arrangements for information technology and telecommunication services with an aggregate contractual obligation of $84 million over the next five years, some of which have early termination fees and commitments to purchase advertising which totaled $192 million, most of which is due within the next 12 months. We also entered into commitments to purchase beverage and restaurant equipment which totaled $23 million over the next four years.

Litigation

From time to time, we are involved in legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business relating to matters including, but not limited to, disputes with franchisees, suppliers, employees and customers, as well as disputes over our intellectual property.

On October 5, 2018, a class action complaint was filed against Burger King Worldwide, Inc. (“BKW”) and Burger King Company, successor in interest, (“BKC”) in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida by Jarvis Arrington, individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated. On October 18, 2018, a second class action complaint was filed against RBI, BKW and BKC in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida by Monique Michel, individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated. On October 31, 2018, a third class action complaint was filed against BKC and BKW in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida by Geneva Blanchard and Tiffany Miller, individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated. On November 2, 2018, a fourth class action complaint was filed against RBI, BKW and BKC in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida by Sandra Munster, individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated. These complaints have been consolidated and allege that the defendants violated Section 1 of the Sherman Act by incorporating an employee no-solicitation and no-hiring clause in the standard form franchise agreement all Burger King franchisees are required to sign. Each plaintiff seeks injunctive relief and damages for himself or herself and other members of the class. On March 24, 2020, the Court granted BKC’s motion to dismiss for failure to state a claim and on April 20, 2020 the plaintiffs filed a motion for leave to amend their complaint. On April 27, 2020, BKC filed a motion opposing the motion for leave to amend. The court denied the plaintiffs motion for leave to amend their complaint in August 2020 and the plaintiffs appealed this ruling. In August 2022, the federal appellate court reversed the lower court's decision to dismiss the case and remanded the case to the lower court for further proceedings. While we intend to vigorously defend these claims, we are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of this case or estimate the range of possible loss, if any.

On October 7, 2024, purported former shareholders of Carrols filed a complaint in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware against RBI andtwo individuals that were on the board of Carrols. The complaint alleges claims for breach of fiduciary duty by RBI, as a purported controlling shareholder of Carrols, and unjust enrichment by RBI in connection with the acquisition of Carrols, as well as claims for breaches of fiduciary duty by thetwo individual directors. The complaint generally alleges that RBI coerced Carrols into the transaction, and that thetwo directors failed to disclose that their interests differed from the interests of other Carrols shareholders, and that thetwo directors were not independent from RBI. The complaint seeks equitable relief, damages and fees and expenses. We filed a motion to dismiss in December 2024 and the plaintiffs filed an amended complaint in February 2025. We intend to vigorously defend these claims, however, we are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of this case or estimate the range of possible loss, if any.

Note 18. Segment Reporting and Geographical Information

As stated in Note 1, Description of Business and Organization, we manage four brands: Tim Hortons, Burger King, Popeyes and Firehouse Subs.

Our management structure and information regularly reviewed by our Chief Executive Officer, who is our Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”), reflects five operating and reportable segments that reflect our franchisor operations consistent with how the business will be managed long-term. Additionally, following the Carrols Acquisition and PLK China Acquisition in the second quarter of 2024, we established a sixth operating and reportable segment, which includes results from the Burger King restaurants acquired as part of the Carrols Acquisition and the PLK China restaurants and will include results from Firehouse Subs Brazil (“FHS Brazil”) beginning in 2025, to reflect the manner in which our CODM manages and assesses performance of these acquired businesses. As a result, oursix operating and reportable segments consist of the following:

1. Tim Hortons – operations of our Tim Hortons brand in Canada and the U.S. (“TH”);

2. Burger King – operations of our Burger King brand in the U.S. and Canada, excluding results of Burger King restaurants acquired as part of the Carrols Acquisition, included in our RH segment (defined below) (“BK”);

3. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen – operations of our Popeyes brand in the U.S. and Canada (“PLK”);

4. Firehouse Subs – operations of our Firehouse Subs brand in the U.S. and Canada (“FHS”);

5. International – operations of each of our brands outside the U.S. and Canada, excluding results of PLK China and FHS Brazil restaurants included in our RH segment (“INTL”); and

6. Restaurant Holdings – operations of Burger King restaurants acquired as part of the Carrols Acquisition and the operations of PLK China and FHS Brazil restaurants (“RH”).

Our measure of segment income is Adjusted Operating Income which represents income from operations adjusted to exclude (i) franchise agreement and reacquired franchise right intangible asset amortization as a result of acquisition accounting, (ii) (income) loss from equity method investments, net of cash distributions received from equity method investments, (iii) other operating expenses (income), net and, (iv) income/expenses from non-recurring projects and non-operating activities. For the periods referenced, income/expenses from non-recurring projects and non-operating activities included (i) non-recurring fees and expenses incurred in connection with the Carrols Acquisition and the PLK China Acquisition consisting primarily of professional fees, compensation-related expenses and integration costs (“RH Transaction costs”); (ii) non-recurring fees and expense incurred in connection with the acquisition of Firehouse Subs consisting primarily of professional fees, compensation-related expenses and integration costs (“FHS Transaction costs”); and (iii) non-operating costs from professional advisory and consulting services associated with certain transformational corporate restructuring initiatives that rationalize our structure and optimize cash movements as well as services related to significant tax reform legislation and regulations (“Corporate restructuring and advisory fees”).

The following tables present total segment revenues, significant segment expenses that are regularly reviewed by the CODM to manage and assess segment performance and segment income, as well as depreciation and amortization, (income) loss from equity method investments, and capital expenditures by segment (in millions). For the periods referenced, segment franchise and property expenses (“Segment F&P expenses”) for each segment excludes franchise agreement and reacquired franchise rights amortization and Segment G&A for each segment excludes RH Transaction costs, FHS Transaction costs and Corporate restructuring and advisory fees (each as defined below). For segment reporting purposes, capital expenditures include payments for additions of property and equipment during the period, as well as the change in accruals for additions of property and equipment since the prior period. For 2024, capital expenditures for RH excludes $7 million of accruals for additions of property and equipment assumed in connection with the Carrols Acquisition.

(a)Thecomponents of Company restaurant expenses for our RH segment are included below.

The following table presents the components of Company restaurant expenses for our RH segment (in millions):

The following tables present revenues by country (in millions):

(b) Only Canada and the United States represented 10% or more of our total revenues in each period presented.

Our CODM manages assets on a consolidated basis. Accordingly, segment assets are not reported to our CODM or used in his decisions to allocate resources or assess performance of the segments. Therefore, total segment assets and long-lived assets have not been disclosed.

Total long-lived assets by country are as follows (in millions):

Long-lived assets include property and equipment, net, finance and operating lease right of use assets, net and net investment in property leased to franchisees. Only Canada and the United States represented 10% or more of our total long-lived assets as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

Adjusted Operating Income is used by management to measure operating performance of the business, excluding these non-cash and other specifically identified items that management believes are not relevant to management’s assessment of our operating performance. A reconciliation of segment income to net income consists of the following (in millions):

(a)Represents (i) (income) loss from equity method investments and (ii) cash distributions received from our equity method investments. Cash distributions received from our equity method investments are included in segment income.

Note 19. Subsequent Events

Dividends

On January 3, 2025, we paid a cash dividend of $0.58 per common share to common shareholders of record on December 20, 2024. On such date, Partnership also made a distribution in respect of each Partnership exchangeable unit in the amount of $0.58 per exchangeable unit to holders of record on December 20, 2024.

On February 12, 2025, we announced that the board of directors had declared a cash dividend of $0.62 per common share for the first quarter of 2025. The dividend will be paid on April 4, 2025 to common shareholders of record on March 21, 2025. Partnership will also make a distribution in respect of each Partnership exchangeable unit in the amount of $0.62 per Partnership exchangeable unit, and the record date and payment date for distributions on Partnership exchangeable units are the same as for the common shares.

Burger King China Acquisition

On February 14, 2025, we acquired substantially all of the remaining equity interests of Burger King China for approximately $158 million in an all-cash transaction. The acquisition of Burger King China will be accounted for as a business combination for which we have determined that the criteria for held for sale have been met on the acquisition date. Consequently, Burger King China will be reported as a discontinued operation.