AFC Enterprises Q4 Same-store Sales Up 6.0%; Lifts FY12 Adj. EPS View - InvestingChannel

AFC Enterprises Q4 Same-store Sales Up 6.0%; Lifts FY12 Adj. EPS View

AFC Enterprises Inc. (AFCE: Quote) reported that Global same-store sales increased 6.0% in the fourth quarter, on top of a 5.8% increase last year.

For the full year 2012, global same store sales increased 6.8% compared to a 3.1% increase in 2011, exceeding the Company’s previous guidance of positive 6% to 6.5%.

The company expects final general and administrative expenses for fiscal 2012 will be approximately $67.6 million. At approximately 3.0% of system-wide sales, the Company’s general and administrative expenses remain among the most efficient in the restaurant industry. The Company’s previous guidance was $67 to 68 million at approximately 3.0% of system-wide sales.

The company now expects fiscal 2012 reported earnings per share will be $1.23-$1.24, compared to $0.97 in fiscal 2011, an increase of 27%. Adjusted earnings per share for fiscal 2012, which included about $0.01 for the 53rd week of operations, is now expected to be $1.23-$1.24, compared to adjusted EPS of $0.99 last year. This is an increase from the company’s previous 2012 adjusted earnings per share guidance of $1.19-$1.21.

Analysts polled by Thomson Reuters expect the company to report earnings of $1.21 per share for fiscal 2012. Analysts’ estimates typically exclude special items.

To receive FREE breaking news email alerts for AFC ENTERPRISES INC and others in your portfolio

by RTT Staff Writer

For comments and feedback: editorial@rttnews.comBusiness News