SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Filed by the Registrant [X]
Filed by a party other than the Registrant [ ]
Check the appropriate box:
[X] Preliminary Proxy Statement
[ ] Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule
14a-6(e)(2))
[ ] Definitive Proxy Statement
[ ] Definitive Additional Materials
[ ] Soliciting Material Pursuant to ss.240.14a-11(c) or ss.240.14a-12
Sbarro, Inc.
-----------
(Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
[ ] No fee required
[ ] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11
1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction
applies: Common Stock, $.01 par value
2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
20,531,977
3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction
computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (Set forth the
amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it
was determined): $28.85
4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction: $395,649,643
(includes amount being paid with respect to the termination of
stock options)
5) Total fee paid: $79,129.93
[X] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
[ ] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange
Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting
fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration
statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.
1) Amount Previously Paid:
2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
3) Filing Party:
4) Date Filed:
<PAGE>
PRELIMINARY COPY SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED APRIL 20, 1999
[SBARRO, INC. LOGO]
SBARRO, INC.
401 BROADHOLLOW ROAD
MELVILLE, NEW YORK 11747
_________ __, 1999
Dear Fellow Shareholders:
You are cordially invited to attend a Special Meeting of Shareholders
of Sbarro, Inc. (the "COMPANY") to be held at ___________________, _______, New
York on ______ __, 1999, at 10:00 a.m., local time.
At the meeting, you will be asked to consider and vote upon a proposal
to adopt an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "MERGER AGREEMENT"), dated as of
January 19, 1999, among the Company, Sbarro Merger LLC ("MERGECO"), and three
members of the Sbarro family who are executive officers and directors of the
Company and two of their affiliated entities (the "CONTINUING SHAREHOLDERS").
You can find the full text of the Merger Agreement as Annex I at the back of the
accompanying Proxy Statement, and we urge you to read it in its entirety. Your
Board of Directors is seeking your vote on this important transaction.
If the Merger Agreement is adopted, upon completion of the merger,
Mergeco, an entity owned by the Continuing Shareholders, will be merged with and
into the Company. As a result, the entire equity interest in the Company will be
owned by the Continuing Shareholders and you will be entitled to receive $28.85
in cash for each share of Common Stock of the Company that you then own. The
Company will continue its operations following completion of the Merger.
However, shareholders of the Company, other than the Continuing Shareholders,
will no longer have an equity interest in the Company and, therefore, will not
participate in any potential future earnings and growth of the Company.
On November 25, 1998, to avoid any conflict of interest, your Board of
Directors formed a Special Committee of its independent directors to consider
and evaluate the fairness of the merger proposal. The Special Committee consists
of Richard A. Mandell, Harold L. Kestenbaum, Paul A. Vatter and Terry Vince,
none of whom is an employee of, or consultant to, the Company, Mergeco or the
Continuing Shareholders and none of whom has any interest in the proposed
merger, other than as a holder of non-employee director stock options and, in
some cases, as a public shareholder.
EACH OF THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS BELIEVES THAT
THE MERGER IS FAIR TO, AND IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF, THE COMPANY AND ITS PUBLIC
SHAREHOLDERS. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS HAS ADOPTED THE MERGER AGREEMENT AND
RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE "FOR" ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT.
In arriving at its recommendation to the Board of Directors, the
Special Committee gave careful consideration to a number of factors described in
the accompanying Proxy Statement. One factor was the written opinion of
Prudential Securities Incorporated, the financial advisor to the Special
Committee, dated January 19, 1999, that as of that date and subject to the
considerations, assumptions and limitations discussed in the opinion, the $28.85
per share cash merger price was fair to the Company's shareholders, other than
the Continuing Shareholders, from a financial point of view. You can find the
full text of this opinion as Annex II at the back of the accompanying Proxy
Statement, and we urge you to read it in its entirety.
<PAGE>
Under the New York Business Corporation Law, the affirmative vote of at
least two-thirds of the votes of all of the outstanding shares of Common Stock
of the Company is required to adopt the Merger Agreement. The Continuing
Shareholders, who own approximately 34.4% of the Company's outstanding Common
Stock, have agreed in the Merger Agreement to vote their shares of Common Stock
in favor of adoption of the Merger Agreement. The Merger Agreement further
provides that it also must be adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of
the votes cast at the meeting, excluding votes cast by the Continuing
Shareholders, abstentions and broker non-votes.
The accompanying Proxy Statement explains the proposed merger and
provides specific information concerning the meeting. Please read it carefully.
You may obtain additional information about the Company from documents that the
Company has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES
REGULATORS HAVE APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THE MERGER AGREEMENT OR THE PROPOSED
MERGER NOR HAVE THEY DETERMINED IF THE PROXY STATEMENT IS ADEQUATE OR ACCURATE.
FURTHERMORE, THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT DETERMINED THE
FAIRNESS OR MERITS OF THE PROPOSED MERGER. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS
A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT. Whether or not you plan to attend the meeting,
we urge you to please complete, sign and date the enclosed proxy card and return
it in the enclosed envelope as soon as possible. The envelope requires no
postage if mailed in the United States. If you attend the meeting, you may vote
your shares in person, even if you have previously submitted a proxy card. Your
proxy may be revoked at any time before it is voted by submitting a written
revocation or a proxy bearing a later date to the Secretary of the Company, or
by attending and voting in person at the meeting. For shares held in "street
name," you may revoke or change your vote by submitting instructions to your
broker or nominee.
Your prompt submission of a proxy card will be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Mario Sbarro
Chairman of the Board
and Chief Executive Officer
<PAGE>
PRELIMINARY COPY SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED APRIL 20, 1999
SBARRO, INC.
401 Broadhollow Road
Melville, New York 11747
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD _______, 1999
To the Shareholders of Sbarro, Inc.:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special Meeting of Shareholders (the
"MEETING") of Sbarro, Inc. (the "COMPANY") will be held at ____________ , ______
, New York, on _________ , ________ __, 1999, at 10:00 a.m. local time to:
1. Consider and vote upon a proposal to adopt an Agreement and
Plan of Merger (the "MERGER AGREEMENT"), dated as of January
19, 1999, among the Company, Sbarro Merger LLC ("MERGECO"),
Mario Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro (1994) Family
Limited Partnership, Anthony Sbarro, and Mario Sbarro and
Franklin Montgomery, not individually but as trustees under
that certain Trust Agreement dated April 28, 1984 for the
benefit of Carmela Sbarro and her descendants (collectively,
the "CONTINUING SHAREHOLDERS"), pursuant to which, among other
things, Mergeco will merge with and into the Company (the
"MERGER") and each outstanding share of the Company's Common
Stock held by shareholders other than the Continuing
Shareholders will be converted into the right to receive
$28.85 in cash, without interest. The Merger Agreement is more
fully described in the accompanying Proxy Statement and the
full text can be found as Annex I at the back of the
accompanying Proxy Statement.
2. Consider such other matters as may properly come before the
Meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof.
Information regarding the proposal to be acted upon at the Meeting is
contained in the accompanying Proxy Statement.
The close of business on ___________, 1999 (the "RECORD DATE") has been
fixed as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to
notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting or any adjournments or postponements
thereof. Only holders of record at the close of business on the Record Date are
entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting or any adjournments or
postponements thereof.
ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT WILL REQUIRE THE AFFIRMATIVE VOTE OF
AT LEAST TWO-THIRDS OF THE VOTES OF ALL OUTSTANDING SHARES OF THE COMPANY'S
COMMON STOCK. WHILE NOT REQUIRED BY THE NEW YORK BUSINESS CORPORATION LAW OR THE
COMPANY'S CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION OR BY-LAWS, THE MERGER AGREEMENT PROVIDES
THAT IT ALSO MUST BE ADOPTED BY AT LEAST A MAJORITY OF THE VOTES CAST AT THE
MEETING, EXCLUDING VOTES CAST BY THE CONTINUING SHAREHOLDERS, ABSTENTIONS AND
BROKER NON-VOTES.
PLEASE DO NOT SEND ANY CERTIFICATES FOR YOUR SHARES AT THIS TIME.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PURPOSE OF EXCHANGING YOUR SHARES FOR THE
CONSIDERATION TO BE RECEIVED UPON CONSUMMATION OF THE MERGER WILL BE SENT
TO YOU FOLLOWING THE EFFECTIVE TIME OF THE MERGER.
<PAGE>
YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS, BASED IN PART UPON THE UNANIMOUS
RECOMMENDATION OF A SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, RECOMMENDS THAT
YOU VOTE "FOR" ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
JOSEPH SBARRO,
Secretary
Melville, New York
____________, 1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT THAT YOUR SHARES BE REPRESENTED AT THE MEETING. EACH
SHAREHOLDER IS URGED TO, AS PROMPTLY AS PRACTICABLE, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THE
ENCLOSED FORM OF PROXY, WHICH REQUIRES NO POSTAGE IF MAILED IN THE UNITED
STATES. IF YOU HOLD SHARES DIRECTLY IN YOUR NAME AND ATTEND THE MEETING, YOU MAY
VOTE YOUR SHARES IN PERSON, EVEN IF YOU HAVE PREVIOUSLY SUBMITTED A PROXY CARD.
YOUR PROXY MAY BE REVOKED AT ANY TIME BEFORE IT IS VOTED BY SUBMITTING A WRITTEN
REVOCATION OR A PROXY BEARING A LATER DATE TO THE SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY, OR
BY ATTENDING AND VOTING IN PERSON AT THE MEETING. FOR SHARES HELD IN "STREET
NAME", YOU MAY REVOKE OR CHANGE YOUR VOTE BY SUBMITTING NEW VOTING INSTRUCTIONS
TO YOUR BROKER OR NOMINEE.
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<PAGE>
PRELIMINARY COPY SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED APRIL 20, 1999
SBARRO, INC.
401 BROADHOLLOW ROAD
MELVILLE, NEW YORK 11747
PROXY STATEMENT
FOR
SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
__________, 1999
This Proxy Statement is furnished to the holders of Common Stock of
Sbarro, Inc. (the "COMPANY") in connection with the solicitation of proxies
("PROXIES") by the Board of Directors of the Company (the "BOARD") for use at
the Special Meeting of Shareholders (the "MEETING") to be held on
_______________, 1999, at 10:00 a.m., local time, at ___________, ________, New
York, and at any adjournments or postponements thereof, for the purpose set
forth in the accompanying Notice of Meeting.
The cost of preparing, assembling, printing, mailing and distributing
the Notice of Meeting, this Proxy Statement and Proxies is to be borne by the
Company. The Company also will reimburse brokers, banks and other custodians,
nominees and fiduciaries, who are holders of record of the Company's Common
Stock, for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in forwarding proxy
soliciting materials to the beneficial owners of shares of Common Stock. The
Company has engaged Kissel-Blake, 110 Wall Street, New York, New York 10005 to
assist in the distribution of proxy materials and the solicitation of votes. For
its services, Kissel-Blake will receive a fee of $_______ plus reimbursement of
certain out-of-pocket expenses. In addition to the use of the mail, Proxies may
be solicited without extra compensation by directors, officers and employees of
the Company by personal interview, telephone, telegram, cablegram or other means
of electronic communication. The approximate mailing date of this Proxy
Statement is __________, 1999.
Unless otherwise specified, all Proxies received will be voted in favor
of the proposal to adopt the merger agreement described in this Proxy Statement.
A shareholder may revoke a Proxy at any time before its exercise by filing with
the Secretary of the Company an instrument of revocation or a duly executed
proxy bearing a later date, or by attendance at the Meeting and voting in
person. Attendance at the Meeting, without voting in person, will not constitute
revocation of a Proxy.
The close of business on ________ , 1999 has been fixed by the Board as
the record date (the "RECORD DATE") for the determination of shareholders
entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting and any adjournments or
postponements thereof. As of the Record Date, there were 20,531,977 shares of
Common Stock of the Company outstanding. Each share of Common Stock outstanding
on the Record Date will be entitled to one vote on the matters to come before
the Meeting. The presence, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority
of the outstanding shares of the Company's Common Stock is required to
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the Meeting. Proxies
submitted which contain abstentions or broker non-votes will be deemed present
at the Meeting for the purpose of determining the presence of a quorum.
YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS HAS RECOMMENDED A VOTE "FOR" ADOPTION OF THE
MERGER AGREEMENT.
<PAGE>
CERTAIN QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT VOTING AND THE MERGER
Q: Why am I receiving these materials? Q: How can I vote shares held in my
broker's name?
A: The Board of Directors of Sbarro,
Inc. is providing these proxy A: If your broker holds your shares in
materials to give you information its name (or in what is commonly
to determine how to vote in called "street name"), then you
connection with a special meeting should give your broker
of shareholders which will take instructions on how to vote.
place on ____________, 1999 at Otherwise your shares will not be
----------. voted.
Q: What will be voted on at the Q: Can I change my vote?
Meeting?
A: You may change your proxy
A: Whether to adopt a Merger Agreement instructions at any time prior to
pursuant to which Mergeco will the vote at the Meeting. For shares
merge with and into the Company, held directly in your name, you may
with the Company as the surviving accomplish this by completing a new
corporation. Following the Merger, proxy or by attending the Meeting
the Continuing Shareholders will and voting in person. Attendance at
own all of the Company's capital the Meeting alone will not cause
stock. your previously granted proxy to be
revoked unless you vote in person.
Q: Will any other matters be voted on For shares held in "street name,"
at the Meeting? you may accomplish this by
submitting new voting instructions
A: No. to your broker or nominee.
Q: Who can vote? Q: What vote is required to adopt the
Merger Agreement?
A: All shareholders of record as of
the close of business on A: For the Merger to occur, two
______________, 1999. approvals are required. First,
two-thirds of all outstanding
Q: What should I do now? shares of Common Stock of the
Company must adopt the Merger
A: Please vote. You are invited to Agreement. Second, a majority of
attend the Meeting. However, you the votes cast, other than votes of
should mail your signed and dated the Continuing Shareholders,
proxy card in the enclosed envelope abstentions and broker non-votes,
as soon as possible, so that your must be for adoption of the Merger
shares will be represented at the Agreement.
Meeting in case you are unable to
attend. No postage is required if Q: How are votes counted?
the proxy card is returned in the
enclosed postage prepaid envelope A: You may vote "FOR", "AGAINST" or
and mailed in the United States. "ABSTAIN." If you "ABSTAIN" or do
not vote, it has the same effect as
Q: What does it mean if I receive more a vote "AGAINST" with respect to
than one proxy or voting the vote that requires the Merger
instruction card? Agreement to be adopted by
two-thirds of all outstanding
A: It means your shares are registered Common Stock of the Company. An
differently or are held in more abstention or non-vote will have no
than one account. Please provide effect with respect to the vote
voting instructions for each proxy that requires adoption of the
card that you receive. Merger Agreement by a majority of
Public Shareholders. If you provide
specific voting instructions, your
shares will be voted as you
instruct. If
-i-
<PAGE>
you sign your proxy card or Q: Should I send in my stock
broker voting instruction card certificates now?
with no further instructions,
your shares will be voted in A: No. After the Merger is
accordance with the recommendation consummated, we will send you
of the Board. written instructions that will tell
you how to exchange your
certificates for $28.85 per share
Q: What will I receive in the Merger? in cash. Please do not send in your
certificates now or with your
A: You will be entitled to receive proxies. Hold your certificates
$28.85 per share in cash in until you receive our instructions.
exchange for each share of the
Company's Common Stock owned by Q: What are the U.S. federal income
you. tax consequences of the Merger to
me?
Q: What is the Board's recommendation?
A: Your receipt of cash in exchange
A: The Board recommends that you vote for your shares in the Merger
your shares "FOR" adoption of the generally will be taxable for U.S.
Merger Agreement. federal income tax purposes in the
same manner as if you sold your
Q: Why is the Board of Directors shares for $28.85 per share in
recommending that I vote to adopt cash. To review the federal income
the Merger Agreement? tax consequences to shareholders in
greater detail, see pages ___ to
A: A Special Committee of the Board, ___ and consult with your tax
consisting of four independent advisor.
directors, negotiated the terms of
the Merger Agreement with the Q: Will I have appraisal rights?
Continuing Shareholders and, based
on a number of factors, including a A: No. You will not have any appraisal
fairness opinion received from rights as a result of the Merger.
Prudential Securities Incorporated,
unanimously concluded that the Q: Who can answer my questions?
Merger is fair to, and in the best
interests of, the Company and the
Public Shareholders and recommended A: If you have more questions about
its adoption by the full Board. In the Merger or would like additional
the opinion of your Board, based in copies of this Proxy Statement, you
part upon the recommendation of the should contact Kissel-Blake at
Special Committee, the Merger is 1-800-554-7733 (toll free in the
fair to, and in the best interests United States) or 1-212- 344-6733
of, the Company and the Public (call collect).
Shareholders. To review the
background and reasons for the
Merger in greater detail, see pages
___ to ___.
Q:When will the Merger take place?
A:If the Merger Agreement is adopted,
we expect that it will take
approximately two weeks to complete
the necessary financing
arrangements. However, the closing
may take longer if the financing or
other closing conditions have not
been then satisfied.
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<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
<S> <C>
SUMMARY...........................................................................................................1
Certain Definitions......................................................................................1
Information Concerning the Meeting.......................................................................3
The Merger Parties................................................................................................4
Special Factors..........................................................................................4
The Merger Agreement.....................................................................................7
No Right of Appraisal....................................................................................9
Selected Consolidated Financial Data of the Company......................................................9
Market Prices of and Dividends on the Common Stock......................................................12
Forward-Looking Information.............................................................................12
SPECIAL FACTORS..................................................................................................14
Background of the Transaction...........................................................................14
Recommendations of the Special Committee and the Board of Directors.....................................25
The Continuing Shareholders' Purpose and Reasons for the Merger.........................................30
Presentation and Fairness Opinion of Prudential Securities..............................................32
Certain Financial Projections...........................................................................40
Plans for the Company after the Merger..................................................................44
Conduct of the Business of the Company if the Merger is not Consummated.................................45
Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger and the Company..............................................45
Certain Effects of the Merger...........................................................................48
Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences............................................................49
Fees and Expenses.......................................................................................50
Accounting Treatment....................................................................................51
Financing of the Merger.................................................................................51
Regulatory Approvals....................................................................................54
Risk of Insolvency......................................................................................55
Risk that the Merger will not be Consummated............................................................55
LITIGATION PERTAINING TO THE MERGER..............................................................................55
Initial Proposal Litigation.............................................................................55
Current Shareholder Litigation..........................................................................56
THE MERGER AGREEMENT.............................................................................................57
The Merger; Merger Consideration........................................................................57
The Exchange Fund; Payment for Shares of Common Stock...................................................57
Transfers of Common Stock...............................................................................58
Treatment of Stock Options..............................................................................58
Tax Withholding.........................................................................................58
Directors and Officers, Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws Following the Merger...................59
Representations and Warranties..........................................................................59
Covenants...............................................................................................59
Indemnification and Insurance...........................................................................60
No Solicitation; Fiduciary Obligations of Directors.....................................................62
Conditions..............................................................................................63
Termination.............................................................................................64
Fees and Expenses.......................................................................................65
Amendment and Waiver....................................................................................65
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<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT'D)
PAGE
BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY..........................................................................................66
Overview................................................................................................66
Industry Overview ......................................................................................67
Competitive Strengths...................................................................................67
Business Strategy.......................................................................................68
MANAGEMENT.......................................................................................................70
Directors and Executive Officers of the Company.........................................................70
Family Relationships....................................................................................74
Background of the Continuing Shareholders...............................................................74
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN
BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.................................................................................74
CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS IN THE COMMON STOCK.........................................................................77
INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS...................................................................................78
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS............................................................................................79
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION..............................................................................79
AVAILABLE INFORMATION............................................................................................80
OTHER MATTERS....................................................................................................80
Annex I -- Agreement and Plan of Merger
Annex II -- Opinion of Prudential Securities Incorporated
</TABLE>
-iv-
<PAGE>
SUMMARY
THIS SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS SELECTED INFORMATION FROM THIS PROXY STATEMENT.
IT MAY NOT CONTAIN ALL OF THE INFORMATION THAT IS IMPORTANT TO YOU. TO
UNDERSTAND THE PROPOSED MERGER FULLY, AND FOR A MORE COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE
TERMS OF THE PROPOSED MERGER, YOU SHOULD READ THIS ENTIRE DOCUMENT CAREFULLY,
INCLUDING THE ANNEXES, AND THE OTHER DOCUMENTS TO WHICH WE REFER YOU. THOSE
OTHER DOCUMENTS ARE LISTED IN THE SECTION HEADING "WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE
INFORMATION" ON PAGE __. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, ALSO SEE THE SECTION HEADING
"AVAILABLE INFORMATION" ON PAGE __.
CERTAIN DEFINITIONS
Instead of repeating certain full descriptions of certain terms
throughout this Proxy Statement, we have used the following shortened terms.
Certain other terms which are not used as frequently are defined within the
document at their first use, with the defined term being italicized.
Company means Sbarro, Inc., a New York
corporation of which you are
presently a shareholder, as
well as the Surviving
Corporation after the Merger.
Continuing Shareholders means Mario Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro,
Joseph Sbarro (1994) Family
Limited Partnership, Anthony
Sbarro, and Mario Sbarro and
Franklin Montgomery, not
individually but as trustees
under that certain Trust
Agreement dated April 28,
1984 for the benefit of
Carmela Sbarro and her
descendants.
Mergeco means Sbarro Merger LLC, a limited
liability company formed in
New York by the Continuing
Shareholders solely for
implementing the Merger. The
Continuing Shareholders own
all of the equity interests
of Mergeco.
Merger Agreement means the Agreement and Plan of
Merger, dated as of January
19, 1999, among the Company,
Mergeco and the Continuing
Shareholders. Merger means
the merger of Mergeco with
and into the Company pursuant
to the Merger Agreement, with
the Company as the Surviving
Corporation.
Surviving Corporation means the Company following the
Merger, as the surviving
corporation of the Merger.
Common Stock means the Company's common stock,
par value $.01 per share.
Public Shareholders means all of the shareholders of
the Company other than the
Continuing Shareholders.
Public Shares means the outstanding
shares of Common Stock held
by the Public Shareholders.
Merger Consideration means the $28.85 per share in cash
without interest, to be
received by the Public
Shareholders following
consummation of the Merger.
Stock Options means all outstanding options to
purchase Common Stock granted
by the Company.
-1-
<PAGE>
Board means the full Board of Directors
of the Company consisting of
Mario Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro,
Anthony Sbarro, Carmela
Sbarro, Harold J. Kestenbaum,
Richard A. Mandell, Paul A.
Vatter, Terry Vince and
Bernard Zimmerman.
Special Committee means the committee of the Board
formed to consider and
evaluate the proposal made by
the Continuing Shareholders.
The members of the Special
Committee are Richard A.
Mandell (Chairman), Harold L.
Kestenbaum, Paul A. Vatter
and Terry Vince, the four
directors of the Company who
are neither employees of, nor
consultants to, the Company,
Mergeco or the Continuing
Shareholders, and have no
interest in the proposed
Merger, other than as holders
of non-employee director
Stock Options and, in some
cases, as Public
Shareholders.
References in this Proxy Statement to "we," "our" or "us" refers to the
Company, not to Mergeco or the Continuing Shareholders. When we refer to the
Company's management, we mean one or more of the Company's principal executive
officers, Mario Sbarro (Chairman of the Board and President), Anthony Sbarro
(Vice Chairman of the Board and Treasurer), Joseph Sbarro (Senior Vice President
and Secretary) and Robert S. Koebele (Vice President-Finance and Chief Financial
Officer).
All information contained in this Proxy Statement relating to Mergeco
and the Continuing Shareholders has been supplied by them for inclusion and has
not been independently verified by the Company. No persons have been authorized
to give any information or to make any representations other than those
contained in this Proxy Statement.
Certain statements contained in this Proxy Statement are
forward-looking and are subject to a number of known and unknown risks and
uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those
projected, expressed or implied. You should refer to "--Forward-Looking
Information" on pages ___ and ___.
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<PAGE>
INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MEETING
TIME, DATE AND PLACE. The Meeting will be held on _________, __, 1999
at 10:00 a.m., local time, at__________ , ___________ , New York.
PURPOSE OF THE MEETING. At the Meeting, holders of Common Stock at the
close of business on the Record Date will consider and vote upon a proposal to
adopt the Merger Agreement. If the Merger Agreement is adopted at the Meeting
and the Merger is consummated, Mergeco will be merged with and into the Company.
The Company will be the surviving corporation of the Merger and the entire
equity interest in the Company will be owned by the Continuing Shareholders. All
shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately prior to the time when the Merger
is consummated (the "EFFECTIVE TIME"), other than shares of Common Stock then
(i) owned of record by the Continuing Shareholders or Mergeco and (ii) held in
the Company's treasury, will be converted into the right to receive $28.85 in
cash per share, payable to the holder thereof, without interest. Under the New
York Business Corporation Law (the "NYBCL") and the Company's By-Laws, no other
business may be transacted at the Meeting.
RECORD DATE FOR THE MEETING; QUORUM REQUIREMENTS. The close of business
on _________ __, 1999 has been fixed as the Record Date for determining
shareholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting. Each share of
Common Stock outstanding on the Record Date is entitled to one vote at the
Meeting. As of the Record Date, 20,531,977 shares of Common Stock were
outstanding. The presence, in person or by proxy, of a majority of all
outstanding Common Stock is required to constitute a quorum for the transaction
of business at the Meeting.
VOTING REQUIREMENTS. Under the NYBCL, the affirmative vote of at least
two-thirds of all of the outstanding shares of Common Stock is required to adopt
the Merger Agreement. The Continuing Shareholders, who own approximately 34.4%
of the Common Stock, have agreed in the Merger Agreement to vote their Common
Stock in favor of adoption of the Merger Agreement. In addition, the Merger
Agreement provides that it is a condition to the consummation of the Merger that
the Merger Agreement also must be adopted by at least a majority of the votes
cast at the Meeting, excluding votes cast by the Continuing Shareholders,
abstentions and broker non-votes.
PROXIES. A proxy card is enclosed for your use in voting by mail. A
proxy may be revoked at any time prior to its exercise at the Meeting. Common
Stock represented by properly executed Proxies received at or prior to the
Meeting, and which have not been revoked, will be voted in accordance with the
instructions indicated on the Proxy.
YOU SHOULD NOT SEND ANY CERTIFICATES REPRESENTING SHARES OF COMMON STOCK WITH
YOUR PROXY CARD. IF THE MERGER IS CONSUMMATED, INFORMATION AS TO THE PROCEDURE
FOR THE EXCHANGE OF YOUR CERTIFICATES WILL BE SENT TO YOU. SEE "THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- THE EXCHANGE FUND; PAYMENT FOR SHARES OF COMMON STOCK" AND "THE
MERGER AGREEMENT -- TRANSFERS OF COMMON STOCK."
-3-
<PAGE>
THE MERGER PARTIES
THE COMPANY. The Company was organized in New York in 1977 and is the
successor to a number of family food and restaurant businesses developed and
operated by the Sbarro family. The Company develops and operates or franchises
an international chain of family-style Italian restaurants principally under the
"Sbarro" and "Sbarro The Italian Eatery" names. Sbarro restaurants are
family-oriented cafeteria-style restaurants featuring a menu of popular Italian
food, including pizza with a variety of toppings, a selection of pasta dishes
and other hot and cold Italian entrees, salads, sandwiches, cheesecake and other
desserts. As of January 3, 1999, there were 898 Sbarro restaurants of which 630
were Company-owned and 268 were franchise units. In addition, since 1995, the
Company has created and operated, through joint ventures, other restaurant
concepts for the purpose of developing growth opportunities. Its principal
executive offices are currently located at 401 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New
York 11747, and its telephone number is (516) 715-4100.
MERGECO. Mergeco is a New York limited liability company organized on
December 15, 1998 by the Continuing Shareholders for the purpose of effecting
the Merger. The Continuing Shareholders are the only members of Mergeco. If the
Merger is consummated, at the Effective Time, Mergeco will be merged with and
into the Company, with the Company as the surviving corporation following the
Merger. Mergeco has no material assets and has not engaged in any activities
except in connection with entering into the Merger Agreement and carrying out
the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. The address of Mergeco is
c/o Mario Sbarro, 401 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York 11747, and its
telephone number is (516) 715-4100.
SPECIAL FACTORS
FOR A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE SPECIAL FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED IN
THE MERGER, WE URGE YOU TO READ THE SECTION ENTITLED "SPECIAL FACTORS" BEGINNING
ON PAGE __.
CONTINUING SHAREHOLDERS' PURPOSE AND REASONS FOR THE MERGER. The
Continuing Shareholders desire to become the owners of all of the capital stock
in the Company that they do not already own for the reasons described under the
section entitled "SPECIAL FACTORS -- The Continuing Shareholders' Purpose and
Reasons for the Merger" beginning on page __. The Continuing Shareholders
structured the transaction as a merger because it would enable the transaction
to be completed in one step, which would minimize the risk that the contemplated
transactions will not be finalized and reduce transaction costs. If the Merger
is consummated, the Common Stock will cease to be publicly traded, the Public
Shares will cease to be outstanding and the Public Shareholders will be entitled
to receive the Merger Consideration of $28.85 per share in cash, without
interest. Following the Merger, all of the outstanding capital stock of the
Company, as the surviving corporation in the Merger, will be owned by the
Continuing Shareholders.
RECOMMENDATION OF THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS. On
January 19, 1999, the Special Committee, consisting of four directors of the
Company who are not employees of, or consultants to, the Company, Mergeco or the
Continuing Shareholders and have no interest in the proposed Merger, other than
as holders of non-employee director Stock Options and, in some cases, as Public
Shareholders, unanimously concluded that the proposed Merger, as reflected in
the Merger Agreement, and the terms and provisions of the Merger Agreement,
including the Merger Consideration of $28.85 in cash per share, were fair to,
and in the best interests of, the Company and the Public Shareholders, and
unanimously resolved to recommend to the Board that it adopt the Merger
Agreement. Thereafter, the Board, based in part upon the recommendation of the
Special Committee, concluded that the Merger, as reflected in the Merger
Agreement, and the terms and provisions of the Merger Agreement, including the
Merger Consideration of $28.85 in cash per share, were fair to, and in the best
interests of, the Company and the Public Shareholders, adopted the Merger
Agreement, authorized the Company to enter into the Merger Agreement and
resolved to recommend to the Public Shareholders that they vote to adopt the
Merger Agreement. The Special Committee addressed its recommendation to the
Board and the Board specifically addressed its recommendation to the Public
Shareholders as a separate individual class. Neither the Special Committee nor
the Board addressed its
-4-
<PAGE>
recommendation to the Continuing Shareholders. See "SPECIAL FACTORS --
Recommendation of the Special Committee and the Board of Directors" beginning on
page __.
FACTORS CONSIDERED BY THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
The Special Committee, in reaching its decision to recommend adoption of the
Merger Agreement to the Board, and the Board, in adopting the Merger Agreement
and recommending adoption of the Merger Agreement by the Public Shareholders,
each considered a number of factors. For a discussion of factors considered by
the Special Committee and the Board of Directors in making their respective
recommendations, see "SPECIAL FACTORS -- Recommendations of the Special
Committee and the Board of Directors" beginning on page __.
PRESENTATION AND FAIRNESS OPINION OF PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES. Prudential
Securities Incorporated ("PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES") delivered its written opinion,
dated January 19, 1999 and addressed to the Special Committee, to the effect
that, as of that date, based upon and subject to the various considerations,
assumptions and limitations stated therein, the Merger Consideration of $28.85
per share in cash to be received by the Public Shareholders in the Merger was
fair, from a financial point of view, to the Public Shareholders. The full text
of the written opinion of Prudential Securities is set forth as Annex II at the
back of this Proxy Statement. You should read this opinion carefully. See
"SPECIAL FACTORS -- Presentation and Fairness Opinion of Prudential Securities,"
beginning on page ___.
PLANS FOR THE COMPANY AFTER THE MERGER. None of the Continuing
Shareholders, Mergeco or the Company currently have any plans or proposals that
relate to or would result in an extraordinary corporate transaction, such as a
merger, reorganization or liquidation involving the Company or any of its
subsidiaries, a sale or transfer of a material amount of assets of the Company
or any of its subsidiaries or, except as indicated elsewhere in this Proxy
Statement, any material change in the Company's capitalization, corporate
structure or business or the composition of the Board or executive officers
following consummation of the Merger. However, the Continuing Shareholders
intend, from time to time, to evaluate and review the Company's businesses,
operations, properties, composition of the Board, management and other
personnel, corporate structure and capitalization, and to make such changes as
are deemed appropriate. The Continuing Shareholders also intend to continue to
explore joint ventures and other opportunities to expand the Company's business.
See "SPECIAL FACTORS -- Plans for the Company after the Merger," beginning on
page __.
CONDUCT OF THE BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY IF THE MERGER IS NOT
CONSUMMATED. The Board has made no determination as to the direction of the
Company should the Merger not be consummated. The Board currently expects that
the Company's present management will continue to operate the Company's business
substantially as presently operated. However, if the Merger is not consummated,
management and the Board intend, from time to time, to evaluate and review the
Company's businesses, operations, properties, management and other personnel,
corporate structure and capitalization, and to make such changes as are deemed
appropriate and to continue to explore joint ventures and other opportunities to
expand the Company's business. See "SPECIAL FACTORS -- Conduct of the Business
of the Company if the Merger is not Consummated" beginning on page ___.
INTEREST OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER AND THE COMPANY. In
considering the recommendations of the Special Committee and of the Board, you
should be aware that the Continuing Shareholders and certain executive officers
and directors of the Company have certain relationships or interests in the
Merger and the Company that are different from your interests as a shareholder
and that may present actual or potential conflicts of interest. The Special
Committee and the Board were aware of these potential or actual conflicts of
interest and considered them in evaluating the proposed Merger. For a
description of these and other interests, see "SPECIAL FACTORS -- Interests of
Certain Persons in the Merger and the Company" beginning on page ___.
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<PAGE>
For a discussion of certain agreements by the Company with respect to
indemnification of, and insurance for, directors and officers of the Company,
see "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Indemnification and Insurance" beginning on page
___.
CERTAIN EFFECTS OF THE MERGER. Upon consummation of the Merger, each
Public Share will be converted into the right to receive $28.85 in cash, without
interest. The Public Shareholders will no longer have any ownership interest in,
and will not be shareholders of, the Company. As a result, they will no longer
benefit from any increases in the value of the Company. Conversely, the Public
Shareholders will no longer bear the risk of any decreases in value of the
Company.
As a result of the Merger, the Company will be privately held and there
will be no public market for the Common Stock. Upon consummation of the Merger,
the Common Stock will cease to be listed or quoted on the New York Stock
Exchange ("NYSE") or otherwise, the registration of the Common Stock under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "EXCHANGE ACT"), will be
terminated and the Common Stock will no longer constitute "margin securities"
under the rules of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. See
"SPECIAL FACTORS -- Certain Effects of the Merger" beginning on page __.
LITIGATION PERTAINING TO THE MERGER. Commencing on November 27, 1998,
following the Company's announcement of the proposed Merger, seven class action
lawsuits were instituted by shareholders against the Company, those Continuing
Shareholders serving on the Board and, except in certain lawsuits, some or all
of the other directors of the Company. While the complaints in each of the
actions vary, in general, they allege that the Continuing Shareholders and the
other directors breached fiduciary duties, that the then proposed consideration
of $27.50 to be paid to Public Shareholders was inadequate and that there were
inadequate procedural protections for the Public Shareholders.
On January 19, 1999, counsel for all of the plaintiffs and counsel for
all of the defendants entered into a Memorandum of Understanding, pursuant to
which an agreement in principle to settle all of the lawsuits was reached and
the Continuing Shareholders agreed to increase their offer of the Merger
Consideration to $28.85 per share. The settlement is subject to certain
conditions. The obligations of Mergeco to consummate the Merger is subject to,
among other things, the settlement of these lawsuits, and that holders of no
more than an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock (approximately 4.9%
of the Company's presently outstanding shares) request exclusion from the
settlement. See "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Conditions" beginning on page __.
See "SPECIAL FACTORS -- Background of the Transaction," beginning on
page __ and "LITIGATION PERTAINING TO THE MERGER" beginning on page _ for
further information concerning these lawsuits and similar lawsuits instituted
with respect to a prior proposal made by the Continuing Shareholders in January
1998 and the terms and conditions of the Memorandum of Understanding.
CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES. You will generally be
taxed on your receipt of the $28.85 per share cash Merger Consideration in the
same manner as if you sold your shares for such amount. BECAUSE DETERMINING THE
TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER MAY DEPEND UPON YOUR PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES, YOU
SHOULD CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISOR IN ORDER TO UNDERSTAND FULLY HOW THE MERGER WILL
AFFECT YOU. For a more detailed discussion of potential United States federal
income tax consequences to you as a result of the Merger, see "SPECIAL FACTORS
- -- Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences" beginning on page ___.
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT. For accounting and financial reporting purposes,
the Merger will be accounted for in accordance with the "purchase method" of
accounting.
FINANCING OF THE MERGER. Approximately $438 million will be required to
pay the aggregate Merger Consideration to the Public Shareholders and to pay
holders of Stock Options, and to pay the estimated fees and expenses associated
with the Merger, as well as to provide sufficient liquidity to fund the
Company's ongoing working capital needs, including capital expenditures. It is
anticipated that the sources of the required funds will be approximately $138
million of the Company's cash and marketable securities and $300
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<PAGE>
million to be obtained through debt financing (the "DEBT FINANCING"). Although
different sources and types of financing may be obtained, the Debt Financing
presently contemplates the placement of senior notes and may include either a
bank revolving credit facility, which will have undrawn availability on the
closing date of the Merger of up to $30 million, or excess cash from the senior
note placement, to provide sufficient liquidity to fund the Company's ongoing
working capital needs, including capital expenditures. Among the conditions to
the obligation of the Continuing Shareholders to consummate the Merger is that
the Company has obtained the Debt Financing on material terms and conditions no
less favorable than those described in the Merger Agreement, including those set
forth in the term sheet annexed as Exhibit "B" to the Merger Agreement. On
January 19, 1999, Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders received a letter (the
"DEBT FINANCING LETTER") from Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. ("BEAR STEARNS") that as
of that date, subject to certain conditions, including market conditions, Bear
Stearns was "highly confident" of its ability to place or arrange the Debt
Financing. A copy of the Debt Financing Letter is annexed as Exhibit "A" to the
Merger Agreement. For a more detailed discussion of certain terms of the Debt
Financing Letter and other factors relating to the financing of the Merger, see
"SPECIAL FACTORS -- Financing of the Merger."
THE MERGER AGREEMENT
THE MERGER CONSIDERATION. If the Merger is consummated, each Public
Share will be converted into the right to receive the Merger Consideration of
$28.85 per share in cash, without interest.
CONDITIONS TO, AND TERMINATION OF, THE MERGER. The conditions referred
to below are only brief summaries of certain conditions and termination rights
specified in the Merger Agreement, and are qualified in their entirety by
reference to the Merger Agreement. See Annex I at the back of this Proxy
Statement for the complete text of the Merger Agreement.
The Merger Agreement will terminate:
o automatically if the required shareholder votes are not
obtained at the Meeting; or
o if the Board (with the approval of the Special Committee) and
Mergeco mutually agree to terminate the Merger Agreement.
Either the Board (with the approval of the Special Committee), on
behalf of the Company, or the members of Mergeco, on behalf of Mergeco, may
terminate the Merger Agreement if:
o the Special Committee withdraws or modifies, in a manner
adverse to Mergeco, its approval or recommendation of the
Merger, the Merger Agreement or the transactions contemplated
by the Merger Agreement;
o there occur certain adverse political or financial events
affecting the United States which, in the terminating party's
sole judgment, make it inadvisable or impractical to proceed
with the Merger;
o any third party consents or government approvals which are
material have not been obtained;
o with certain exceptions, the representations and warranties of
the other are not true and correct in all material respects at
the closing date of the Merger or the covenants and agreements
to be performed and complied with by the other prior to the
closing of the Merger have not been complied with or
performed;
o any law, regulation, court order or injunction prohibits the
Merger or the transactions contemplated by the Merger
Agreement; or
o the Merger is not consummated by June 30, 1999 without fault
of the terminating party.
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<PAGE>
Mergeco independently may terminate the Merger Agreement if:
o the Company does not obtain the Debt Financing in an amount of
at least $300 million, on the material terms and conditions no
less favorable than those set forth in the term sheet annexed
as Exhibit "B" to the Merger Agreement and having a yield to
maturity not in excess of 11.25% per annum (see "SPECIAL
FACTORS -- Financing of the Merger");
o there is any material adverse change in the business,
condition, properties, assets or prospects of the Company and
its subsidiaries taken as a whole;
o there occurs a material adverse change (or event reasonably
likely to result in an adverse change) in the securities,
financial or borrowing markets, or applicable tax or other
laws or regulations, so as to (i) decrease in any material
respect the benefits of the Merger to the Continuing
Shareholders or (ii) make it impractical to proceed with the
Merger or the transactions contemplated by the Merger
Agreement or by the Debt Financing;
o any of Mario Sbarro, Anthony Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro or Carmela
Sbarro or members of their families who are executive officers
of the Company die or become disabled (see "MANAGEMENT");
o the seven class action lawsuits instituted with respect to the
transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement have not
been consolidated into one lawsuit in the Supreme Court of New
York, the settlement of the consolidated lawsuit (in
accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding dated January
19, 1999 among the parties to such actions) has not been
approved by that Court, final judgment has not been entered in
accordance with the settlement agreement contemplated by the
Memorandum of Understanding or has not become final or holders
of 1,000,000 or more shares of Common Stock have requested
exclusion from the settlement (see "LITIGATION PERTAINING TO
THE MERGER");
o there is any other pending lawsuit or other action or
proceeding or decision which could prevent or substantially
delay the completion of the Merger or is reasonably likely to
materially increase the Merger Consideration, result in
material damages or cause rescission of the Merger; or
o any law or regulation or court order imposes material
limitations on the ability of the Continuing Shareholders to
effectively exercise full rights to ownership of the new
Common Stock to be issued to them in the Merger.
NO SOLICITATION. The Company has agreed in the Merger Agreement not to
take any action to solicit, initiate or encourage any proposal for (i) a merger
or other business combination involving the Company or any of its subsidiaries,
(ii) the acquisition of an equity interest in the Company or any of its
subsidiaries, or (iii) the sale of a substantial portion of the assets of the
Company or any of its subsidiaries, or enter into negotiations with, or furnish
information to, any other party with respect to those types of transactions. The
Company may, however, enter into negotiations with, or furnish information to,
any other party with respect to any such proposal but only to the extent that
such action is taken by, or upon the authority of, the Board if, in the Board's
good faith judgment:
o the proposed transaction is more favorable to the Company's
shareholders than the Merger, is achievable and is supported
by creditable financing; and
o failure to take such action would breach the Board's fiduciary
duties to the Company's shareholders under applicable law.
See "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- No Solicitation; Fiduciary Obligations of
Directors."
FEES AND EXPENSES. For a discussion of the obligations for the payment
of fees and expenses in connection with the Merger, see "THE MERGER AGREEMENT --
Fees and Expenses."
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<PAGE>
NO RIGHT OF APPRAISAL
The Common Stock is listed on the NYSE. As a consequence of such
listing, under Section 910 of the NYBCL, appraisal rights will not be available
to dissenting Public Shareholders. Accordingly, a Public Shareholder who objects
to the Merger will not have the right to have a court determine and fix the fair
value of the shareholder's Public Shares. A Public Shareholder who elects to be
excluded from the settlement of the existing lawsuits may then pursue any legal
and equitable remedies as the shareholder may have. However, equitable remedies
may not be available as a practical matter where transactions have already been
consummated. The formal stipulation of settlement in the Current Shareholder
Litigation will provide for notice to be given to each member of the class that
the member has a right to be, and the procedure to be, excluded from the
settlement. Any excluded class member will have no rights with respect to the
settlement and will not be bound by the formal stipulation of settlement. Any
class member who chooses to be excluded from the settlement must request
exclusion with respect to all Common Stock owned by the member. See "LITIGATION
PERTAINING TO THE MERGER."
SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA OF THE COMPANY
The following table sets forth selected financial information for the
Company and its subsidiaries as of and for each of the prior five fiscal years.
The following financial information should be read in conjunction with the
Company's Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes included elsewhere
in this Proxy Statement.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL YEARS ENDED
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JANUARY 3, DECEMBER 28, DECEMBER 29, DECEMBER 31, JANUARY 1,
1999(1) 1997 1996 1995 1995
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Revenues:
Restaurant sales............. $361,534 $337,723 $319,315 $310,132 $288,808
Franchise related income..... 8,578 7,360 6,375 5,942 5,234
Interest income.............. 5,120 4,352 3,798 3,081 1,949
-------------- --------------- ------------- --------------- --------------
Total revenues............. 375,232 349,435 329,488 319,155 295,991
Cost and expenses:
Cost of food and paper products 76,572 69,469 68,668 67,361 61,877
Restaurant operating expenses:
Payroll and other
employee benefits....... 93,367 84,910 78,258 78,342 70,849
Occupancy and other expenses 101,013 93,528 85,577 84,371 76,353
Depreciation and amortization... 22,429 23,922 22,910 23,630 21,674
General and administrative expenses 19,708 17,762 14,940 16,089 13,319
Provision for unit closings (2). 2,515 3,300 -- 16,400 --
Terminated transaction costs (3) 986 -- -- -- --
Litigation settlement and related
costs (4).................... 3,544 -- -- -- --
Loss on sale of land to be sold (5) 1,075 -- -- -- --
Other income.................... (2,680) (1,653) (1,171) (1,359) (1,351)
-------------- --------------- ------------- --------------- --------------
Total costs and expenses........ 318,529 291,238 269,182 284,834 242,721
-------------- --------------- ------------- --------------- --------------
Income before income taxes and
cumulative effect of accounting
changes...................... 56,703 58,197 60,306 34,321 53,270
Income taxes.................... 21,547 22,115 22,916 13,042 20,244
-------------- --------------- ------------- --------------- --------------
Income before cumulative effect of
accounting changes........... 35,156 36,082 37,390 21,279 33,026
Cumulative effect of accounting
changes...................... (822) -- -- -- --
-------------- --------------- ------------- --------------- --------------
Net income...................... $34,334 $36,082 $37,390 $21,279 $33,026
============== =============== ============= =============== ==============
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL YEARS ENDED
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JANUARY 3, DECEMBER 28, DECEMBER 29, DECEMBER 31, JANUARY 1,
1999(1) 1997 1996 1995 1995
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
PER SHARE DATA (6):
Basic earnings per share before
cumulative effect of accounting
changes...................... $1.71 $1.77 $1.84 $1.05 $1.63
Cumulative effect of accounting
changes...................... ( .04) -- -- -- --
---------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Basic earnings per share........ $1.67 $1.77 $1.84 $1.05 $1.63
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Basic number of shares used in the
computation.................. 20,516,890 20,426,678 20,369,128 20,336,809 20,310,283
Diluted earnings per share before
cumulative effect of accounting $1.71 $1.76 $1.83 $1.04 $1.62
changes......................
Cumulative effect of accounting
changes...................... (.04) -- -- -- --
---------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Diluted earnings per share...... $ 1.67 $ 1.76 $ 1.83 $ 1.04 $ 1.62
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Diluted number of shares used in the
computation.................. 20,583,367 20,504,303 20,404,620 20,396,704 20,355,275
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash, cash equivalents and
marketable securities........ $150,472 $ 127,310 $114,818 $ 103,501 $ 80,980
Total assets.................... 303,168 278,649 258,659 242,730 232,051
Working capital................. 121,380 88,006 73,619 57,645 43,271
Shareholders' equity............ 256,917 220,439 205,200 185,666 179,580
Book value per share outstanding (7) 12.51 10.78 10.06 9.13 8.83
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges (8) 5.03x 5.44x 5.99x 3.93x 6.13x
- -----------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) The Company's fiscal year ends on the Sunday nearest December 31. The
Company's 1998 fiscal year ended January 3, 1999 and contained 53
weeks. All other reported fiscal years contained 52 weeks. Accordingly,
the 1998 fiscal year benefitted from one additional week of operations
over the prior reported fiscal years. The additional week in fiscal
1998 produced revenues of $8,534, net income of $1,666 and basic and
diluted earnings per share of $.08.
(2) In 1998, a provision of $2,515 before tax ($1,559 or $.08 basic and
diluted earnings per share after tax) was established for the closing
of 20 restaurants locations.
In 1997, a provision of $3,300 before tax ($2,046 or $.10 basic and
diluted earnings per share after tax) relating to the Company's
investment in one of its joint ventures was established for the closing
of certain joint venture units.
In 1995, a provision of $16,400 before tax ($10,168 or $.50 basic and
diluted earnings per share after tax) was established for the closing
of approximately 40 under-performing restaurants.
(3) The 1998 financial statements reflect a charge of $986 before tax ($611
or $.03 basic and diluted earnings per share after tax) for costs
associated with the termination of negotiations of the Initial
Proposal.
(4) The 1998 financial statements reflect a charge of $3,544 before tax
($2,197 or $.11 basic and diluted earnings per share after tax) in
connection with the settlement of a lawsuit under the Fair Labor
Standards Act.
(5) During 1998, the Company received an offer to sell a parcel of
Company-owned land included in construction-in-progress for an amount
less than the carrying cost and, accordingly, the 1998 financial
statements reflect a reduction of such carrying cost of $1,075 ($667 or
$.03 basic and diluted earnings per share after tax).
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<PAGE>
(6) All share and per share data have been restated to give effect to
Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 128, which became
effective for the Company at the end of 1997, and have been adjusted to
give effect to a 3-for-2 stock split in the form of a 50% stock
dividend distributed on September 22, 1994.
(7) Book value per share outstanding was computed by dividing shareholders'
equity at the end of the reported period by the actual number of shares
outstanding at the end of the reported period, and does not include the
dilutive effect of Stock Options.
(8) The ratio of earnings to fixed charges has been determined by dividing
the total fixed charges into the sum of earnings before taxes on income
and fixed charges. Fixed charges consist of interest expense and
one-third of rental expense (deemed to be a reasonable approximation of
the interest factor).
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<PAGE>
MARKET PRICES OF AND DIVIDENDS ON THE COMMON STOCK
The Common Stock is listed on the NYSE under the symbol "SBA." The
following table shows the range of high and low sales prices (rounded to the
nearest cent) of the Common Stock for the periods indicated as reported on the
NYSE Composite Tape:
Fiscal Year 1997: High Low
- ---------------- ---- ---
First Quarter (ended April 20, 1997)................... $28.63 $25.13
Second Quarter (ended July 13, 1997)................... 29.75 26.25
Third Quarter (ended October 5, 1997).................. 29.44 26.06
Fourth Quarter (ended December 28, 1997)............... 29.75 26.00
Fiscal Year 1998:
- ----------------
First Quarter (ended April 19, 1998)................... $30.13 $25.44
Second Quarter (ended July 12, 1998)................... 29.69 25.56
Third Quarter (ended October 4, 1998).................. 27.25 18.31
Fourth Quarter (ended January 3, 1999)................. 26.69 19.38
Fiscal Year 1999:
- ----------------
First Quarter (through April 19, 1999)................. 27.06 23.50
The Revised Proposal was announced after the close of trading on the
NYSE on November 25, 1998. The closing price of the Common Stock on the NYSE on
November 25, 1998 was $24-13/16 per share. On January 19, 1999, the day before
public announcement that the Merger Agreement had been entered into, the closing
price of the Common Stock on the NYSE was $25-5/16. On April 19, 1999, the
closing price of the Common Stock on the NYSE was $26-1/2 per share. YOU ARE
URGED TO OBTAIN A CURRENT MARKET QUOTATION FOR YOUR SHARES OF COMMON STOCK.
During 1997, the Company declared four quarterly dividends of $.27 per
share. The Board has deferred the declaration of dividends for all quarterly
periods subsequent to the fourth quarter of fiscal 1997 in response to the
requirements of proposals made by the Continuing Shareholders regarding a "going
private" transaction (both of which were conditioned upon, among other things,
the suspension of dividends by the Company) and, during the interval between
termination of the first proposal while it was considering strategic
alternatives to enhance shareholder value. Under the terms of the Merger
Agreement, the Company has agreed, among other things, not to declare, set aside
or pay any dividends prior to the Effective Time.
As of the Record Date, there were approximately 425 holders of record
of Common Stock, exclusive of shareholders whose shares were held by brokerage
firms, banks, depositories and other institutional firms in "street name" for
their customers.
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This Proxy Statement contains forward-looking statements, which are
generally identified by words such as "may," "should," "seeks," "believes,"
"expects," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "strategy" and similar
expressions or the negative of those words. Those statements appear in a number
of places in this Proxy Statement and include statements regarding the intent,
belief, expectation, strategies or projections of the Company, its management,
Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders at that time. Forward-looking statements
are subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could
cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, expressed or
implied in the forward-looking statements.
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These risks and uncertainties, many of which are not within the Company's
control, include, but are not limited to, general economic, weather and business
conditions; the availability of suitable restaurant sites in appropriate
regional shopping malls and other locations on reasonable rental terms; changes
in consumer tastes; changes in population and traffic patterns; the ability to
continue to attract franchisees; the success of the Company's present, and any
future, joint ventures and other expansion opportunities; the availability of
food (particularly cheese and tomatoes) and paper products at reasonable prices;
no material increase occurring in the Federal minimum wage; the Company's
ability to attract competent restaurant and executive managerial personnel;
competition; government regulation; the Company's ability to successfully and
timely complete compliance of its information systems for the Year 2000 and the
ability of certain of its suppliers and landlords to be timely Year 2000
compliant; the Company's ability to generate adequate profits and cash flow to
service its projected debt; and the availability of financing, if and when
required, on favorable terms. The accompanying information contained in this
Proxy Statement and in documents incorporated by reference identifies important
factors that could cause expectations not to be met. Forward-looking statements
speak only as of the date made, and none of the Company, Mergeco or the
Continuing Shareholders undertake any obligation to update or revise any
forward-looking statements. It is likely that if one or more of the risks and
uncertainties materializes, the current expectations of the Company, its
management, Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders will not be recognized.
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SPECIAL FACTORS
BACKGROUND OF THE TRANSACTION
Beginning in late 1995, as a result of informal discussions among
members of the Executive Committee of the Board, consisting of Mario Sbarro,
Chairman of the Board, Joseph Sbarro, Anthony Sbarro and Bernard Zimmerman, a
director of the Company and president and a majority shareholder of a company
which serves as a consultant to the Company, it was determined to commence an
overall assessment of the future direction of the Company. As part of this
process, from time to time, Mario and Joseph Sbarro and Mr. Zimmerman met with
the investment banking firms of Bear Stearns and Prudential Securities. In
September 1996, they met with the investment banking firm of Montgomery
Securities, as well as with Bear Stearns and Prudential Securities, concerning
their potential retention by the Company or the Continuing Shareholders. On
October 26, 1996, Mario and Joseph Sbarro, in their individual capacities,
retained Bear Stearns to assist in exploring the advisability of proposing a
transaction, as a result of which they or their affiliates would own at least a
majority of the voting securities of the Company, with the understanding that,
in the event a transaction was structured in a manner in which some or all of
the purchase price was to be paid by the Company, they would use their best
efforts to have the Company retain Bear Stearns, and the Continuing Shareholders
would be released from their obligations under their engagement letter. It was
also understood that, in the event the Continuing Shareholders were to propose a
transaction between the Continuing Shareholders and the Company, the Company
would retain another investment banking firm to act as the financial advisor to
a special committee of the Board of Directors (consisting of the directors who
were neither employees of, nor consultants to, the Company) and that the special
committee would rely on the advice of such firm and not Bear Stearns with
respect to such transaction.
Bear Stearns thereupon commenced an analysis of the Company's business,
results of operations, financial position, structure and prospects, and
discussed with the Continuing Shareholders various structural alternatives and
analyses for consideration. Over the next two months, the Continuing
Shareholders met with their advisors to consider legal, accounting, financing,
tax and estate planning aspects of the alternatives presented by Bear Stearns.
On November 19, 1996, Mario Sbarro informed the entire Board that the
Continuing Shareholders were exploring a potential transaction which
contemplated a program under which they would purchase or the Company would
repurchase some or all of the then outstanding Common Stock. Subsequently, based
upon their then concerns about long-term operating flexibility limitations under
covenants likely to be contained in the agreements governing the high level of
debt required, and tax and estate planning considerations, the Continuing
Shareholders decided not to pursue a management buyout (going private)
transaction, and asked Bear Stearns to conduct an analysis of strategic
alternatives to increase shareholder value.
On January 15, 1997, at a special meeting of the Board, Bear Stearns
reviewed with the Board various strategic alternatives potentially available to
the Company to increase shareholder value. The alternatives discussed by Bear
Stearns were (i) maintaining the status quo, (ii) declaring a special cash
dividend, (iii) repurchasing Common Stock in the open market, (iv) acquiring
other businesses, (v) selling the Company, (vi) going private through a
management buy out, and (vii) a leveraged recapitalization of the Company
through a tender offer for a significant portion of outstanding Common Stock to
be financed with the Company's cash position and the use of debt financing.
Based in part upon operating and financial information provided to it
and discussions with the Company's management, Bear Stearns cited the following
considerations in its evaluation of the alternatives:
o Maintenance of the status quo by the Company would likely
result in a continued buildup of cash, which would not be
highly valued by investors;
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o A special one-time cash dividend would not be tax efficient
from an individual shareholder's standpoint, since it would be
taxed at ordinary income, rather than capital gains, tax
rates;
o An open market stock repurchase program would not be an
efficient mechanism for repurchasing a large number of shares
of Common Stock and a moderate repurchase program would not
have a significant impact on the Company's earnings per share;
o As to acquisitions, management had expressed a strong
strategic preference for developing new concepts and joint
ventures internally, the Company had not historically made
acquisitions and there appeared to be few concepts available
that would provide a strong business fit with the Company;
o Since the Continuing Shareholders had indicated that they were
not interested in a sale of the Company, a sale of control of
the Company without their participation was unlikely; and
o A going private transaction would involve the incurrence of a
significant level of debt resulting in a highly leveraged
capital structure and constraints on operating flexibility as
a result of requirements to comply with loan covenants
governing the debt that would be incurred.
In view of these considerations, Bear Stearns recommended consideration
of a leveraged recapitalization of the Company in which the Company would
purchase between $250-300 million of its outstanding Common Stock through a
tender offer utilizing a substantial portion of its cash, together with $150-200
million of debt financing. Bear Stearns also reviewed several leveraged
recapitalization scenarios and discussed the possible disadvantages of a
leveraged recapitalization, including reduced liquidity in the market for the
Common Stock, reduced research coverage by analysts, the impact on the Company's
shareholder base due to the elimination of, or reduction in, dividends and
reduction in the Company's equity market capitalization, and the operating and
financial constraints associated with leverage. The Board then requested Bear
Stearns to provide it with (i) additional information in order to consider the
Company's ability to service debt in the event of an economic or business
downturn and (ii) customary financial covenants that could be expected in
financing arrangements and that could impact the Company's operating
flexibility.
At a special meeting of the Board held on January 23, 1997, Bear
Stearns reviewed with the Board the Company's ability to service the various
levels of debt contemplated under the leveraged recapitalization scenarios being
considered based on several assumed levels of operating performance, including
no growth in operating income and annual reductions in operating income. Bear
Stearns also presented a comparative analysis of various terms and financial and
operational covenants customary for both bank debt and high-yield debt.
Following a discussion of the information presented and the potential effects
that recapitalizations at various amounts could have on the Common Stock that
would remain outstanding, the Board requested management to consider a
recapitalization size that it might be willing to recommend to the Board.
At a regularly scheduled meeting of the Board held on February 12,
1997, the Board continued to consider alternate recapitalization scenarios. The
Board authorized management to proceed with an examination of the feasibility of
a $250-$300 million leveraged recapitalization, which would utilize
approximately $100 million of the Company's existing cash with the balance to be
borrowed from banks and/or obtained in the bond market, with a revolving credit
facility for working capital purposes. The Board then authorized the Company to
formally retain Bear Stearns as the Company's financial advisor to consider a
variety of strategic alternatives, including a recapitalization and a going
private transaction. Bear Stearns was not engaged to render, and has not
rendered, any opinion as to the fairness of any transaction presented to the
Board, including the proposed Merger. See "-- Financing of the Merger" for
information regarding the Company's engagement agreement with Bear Stearns.
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However, as a result of an increase in interest rates in late March
1997, along with other considerations, the Board at its regularly scheduled
meeting on May 21, 1997 determined not to pursue a recapitalization transaction
at that time.
During the summer of 1997, as the interest rate environment became more
settled, following informal discussions with other members of the Board,
management, along with Mr. Zimmerman, asked Bear Stearns to present additional
information concerning a recapitalization transaction.
At the Board's regularly scheduled meeting held on August 19, 1997,
management presented information to the Board concerning a possible repurchase
of approximately $230 million of Common Stock to be financed, together with
estimated expenses, with approximately $90 million of the Company's cash and
$150 million in borrowings. On August 27, 1997, an informal meeting was held
with Bear Stearns, at which certain members of the Board participated in person
and others by telephone conference, to discuss the likely effects that the
elimination of or a substantial reduction in dividends as part of the
recapitalization transaction, would have on the Common Stock that would remain
outstanding following a recapitalization.
At the Board's regularly scheduled meeting held on November 18, 1997,
the Board was apprised of the Company's negotiations for bank financing to fund
a leveraged recapitalization. The Board was also advised that the Continuing
Shareholders had requested Bear Stearns to provide information concerning a
going private transaction. Mario Sbarro further informed the Board that the
Continuing Shareholders had recently received an inquiry from a nationally
recognized investment banking firm as to whether the Continuing Shareholders
would be interested in selling their Common Stock to an unaffiliated food and
beverage company at a significant premium to the then market price of the Common
Stock. The potential purchaser proposed a transaction in which a restaurant
franchising business it owned would be merged into the Company in exchange for
shares of Common Stock and it would acquire the Continuing Shareholders' Common
Stock using the Company's available cash and the combined companies' financing
sources. The proposed transaction did not contemplate the acquisition of any of
the Common Stock held by the Public Shareholders. The proposed transaction, if
consummated, would have resulted in the potential purchaser acquiring majority
ownership of the Company. Mr. Sbarro advised the Board that the Continuing
Shareholders had not previously received any proposals for the sale of their
interests in the Company, had not had time to consider the inquiry and were not
sure that they would entertain any such proposal. Because of the preliminary
nature of discussions related to this inquiry, no transaction was proposed for
consideration by the Board. Both prior and subsequent to the Board's November
18, 1997 meeting, meetings and telephone discussions to explore a potential
transaction were held among representatives and principals of the potential
purchaser, Mario Sbarro and Mr. Zimmerman, and, in one instance, with Bear
Stearns and Parker Chapin Flattau & Klimpl, LLP, counsel to the Company ("PARKER
CHAPIN"), present. All discussions were based on publicly-available information
concerning the Company and the potential purchaser.
In late November 1997, the Continuing Shareholders determined that they
were not interested in selling their Common Stock and determined to accelerate
their consideration of a going private transaction. On December 1, 1997, the
potential purchaser was advised of the Continuing Shareholders' decision not to
proceed with a sale of their interest in the Company.
The Continuing Shareholders thereupon recommenced consideration of the
legal, accounting, tax, estate planning and family continuity and succession
aspects of a going private transaction with their advisors and Mr. Zimmerman.
The Continuing Shareholders also discussed with Bear Stearns the feasibility,
method and potential effects of various financing alternatives.
At a special meeting of the Board held on January 12, 1998, the
Continuing Shareholders submitted a proposal to the Board to acquire all of the
outstanding Common Stock not owned by them for $28.50 in cash through a merger
with a company to be owned by them. Completion of the transaction was
conditioned on, among other things:
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o entering into a definitive agreement with the Company;
o approval of the transaction by the Special Committee, the full
Board and the Company's shareholders;
o receipt of satisfactory financing for the transaction; and
o receipt of a fairness opinion from a financial advisor to the
Special Committee that the proposed transaction is fair from a
financial point of view to the holders of Public Shares.
The Continuing Shareholders also advised the Board that they had
received a letter from Bear Stearns that stated that, subject to certain
conditions, Bear Stearns was "highly confident" of its ability to place or
arrange financing for the transaction. In addition, the Continuing Shareholders
advised the Board that they were not interested in selling their Common Stock.
They further advised the Board that their proposal contemplated an immediate
suspension of the payment of cash dividends and, on January 20, 1998, the
Continuing Shareholders amended their proposal to formally condition their offer
on the immediate suspension of dividends by the Company. As amended, the
proposal is referred to in this Proxy Statement as the "INITIAL PROPOSAL."
At the January 12, 1998 meeting, the Board established the Special
Committee consisting of Richard A. Mandell, Harold L. Kestenbaum, Paul A. Vatter
and Terry Vince, the four directors who are neither employees of, nor
consultants to, the Company, Mergeco or the Continuing Shareholders and had no
interest in the proposed transaction other than as holders of non-employee
director Stock Options and, in some cases, as Public Shareholders. The Special
Committee was authorized to consider and evaluate the Initial Proposal, assess
whether it would be in the best interests of the Company and the Public
Shareholders to pursue a transaction with the Continuing Shareholders, make a
recommendation to the Board with respect to acting on the Initial Proposal, and,
if appropriate, enter into and conduct discussions concerning the Initial
Proposal and negotiate a definitive agreement with respect to the Initial
Proposal on behalf of the Company. The Board also authorized the Special
Committee to retain, at the expense of the Company, legal counsel and an
independent investment banking firm to assist and advise it in its work
concerning the Initial Proposal. Immediately following the meeting, members of
the Special Committee met with Parker Chapin, which reviewed with the members
the Special Committee's duties and responsibilities.
The Special Committee thereupon held its first meeting and appointed
Mr. Mandell to serve as its Chairman and identified a number of investment
banking and law firms to interview to act as financial advisor and legal counsel
to the Special Committee.
On January 14, 1998, Messrs. Mandell and Kestenbaum met to interview
law firms to serve as the legal advisors to the Special Committee. After
discussing the results of these interviews with the other members of the Special
Committee, the Special Committee agreed to retain Willkie Farr & Gallagher
("WILLKIE FARR") as its legal counsel. The Special Committee made its
determination based on Willkie Farr's experience and expertise in matters such
as those contemplated in the Initial Proposal and its experience in advising
other special committees of boards of directors in similar transactions.
On January 16, 1998, Messrs. Mandell and Kestenbaum, with the
assistance of Willkie Farr, interviewed investment banking firms to act as the
financial advisor to the Special Committee. On January 18, 1998, the Special
Committee met by telephone conference to discuss the retention of a financial
advisor and determined to retain Prudential Securities based on Prudential
Securities' experience and expertise in matters such as those contemplated in
the Initial Proposal, its experience in advising other special committees of
boards of directors in similar transactions, its experience in the industry and
the proposed terms of its engagement. Prudential Securities had served as the
managing underwriter of the Company's initial public offering in 1985 and
co-managing underwriter of a public offering of Common Stock by, among
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others, certain of the Continuing Shareholders in 1989. Prudential Securities
had not been engaged by the Company in any capacity since 1989. Mr. Mandell, who
had served as a Managing Director of Prudential Securities from 1982 until June
1995, informed the other members of the Special Committee of his prior
affiliation with Prudential Securities and confirmed that he had no existing
employment, consulting or other relationship with Prudential Securities.
During the week of January 18, 1998, the Special Committee reviewed and
negotiated the terms of engagement letters with Willkie Farr and Prudential
Securities, and Prudential Securities held various discussions with
representatives of the Company concerning the due diligence to be performed by
the advisors to the Special Committee.
On January 20, 1998, the Special Committee and the Company entered into
an engagement letter with Prudential Securities, under which Prudential
Securities was retained by the Special Committee to provide financial advice and
assistance in connection with the Initial Proposal and, if requested by the
Special Committee, to render an opinion as to the fairness, from a financial
point of view, to the Public Shareholders of the consideration to be received by
the Public Shareholders. See "-- Presentation and Fairness Opinion of Prudential
Securities."
On January 20, 1998, the Company issued a press release announcing the
Initial Proposal and the conditions to completion of the then proposed merger,
including the condition that dividends be suspended. In its press release, the
Company also announced preliminary results of operations for its fourth quarter
and year ended December 28, 1997, which were lower than earnings for the
comparable periods in the prior year and stated that earnings would further be
affected by a charge to earnings as a result of an evaluation of its investment
in certain units of one of its joint ventures, but that it was premature to
quantify the amount of the charge.
Beginning on January 21, 1998, seven lawsuits were instituted against
the Company, those Continuing Shareholders who are directors of the Company and,
except in certain lawsuits, all or some of the other directors. In general, the
complaints alleged that the defendants breached fiduciary duties, that the
proposed price per share to be paid to Public Shareholders was inadequate and
that the Initial Proposal served no legitimate business purpose of the Company.
In September 1998, following termination of negotiations regarding the Initial
Proposal, these lawsuits were discontinued, without prejudice and without costs.
See "LITIGATION PERTAINING TO THE MERGER -- Initial Proposal Litigation."
On February 12, 1998, the Special Committee met with its financial and
legal advisors. Prudential Securities discussed the progress of its due
diligence activities. Willkie Farr reviewed with the Special Committee members
their fiduciary duties and the rights and powers of the Special Committee and
its members under applicable law and under the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation and By-Laws. The Special Committee was advised that its purpose
was to negotiate at arms' length with the Continuing Shareholders in order to
protect the interests of the Public Shareholders. The Special Committee was
further advised that it was under no obligation to reach any agreement with the
Continuing Shareholders, unless the Special Committee determined that such
agreement was in the best interests of the Public Shareholders. At this meeting,
the Special Committee reviewed the first draft of the then proposed merger
agreement between the Company and the Continuing Shareholders that had been
submitted to Willkie Farr by Warshaw Burstein Cohen Schlesinger & Kuh, LLP
("WARSHAW BURSTEIN"), counsel to the Continuing Shareholders, and Parker Chapin.
On February 19, 1998, the Special Committee held a telephonic meeting
with Willkie Farr and Prudential Securities, in which Willkie Farr reviewed and
discussed the significant terms of the draft merger agreement with the Special
Committee. The Special Committee also discussed proposed changes to the draft
merger agreement for submission to the Continuing Shareholders' advisors.
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During the week of February 23, 1998, upon the authorization of the
Special Committee, Willkie Farr began negotiations on open issues with respect
to the non-financial terms of the proposed merger agreement with Parker Chapin
and Warshaw Burstein.
On February 25, 1998, Prudential Securities met with management of the
Company to discuss due diligence matters, including the financial status and the
management of the Company and the operational aspects of the Company and the
restaurant industry generally.
On March 3, 1998, Prudential Securities and Willkie Farr again met with
the Special Committee. Prudential Securities made a preliminary presentation to
the Special Committee summarizing its work to date. The presentation discussed
various approaches to valuation and included, among other things, a discounted
cash flow analysis of the Company, an analysis of comparable companies and
comparable transactions and a leveraged going private analysis. Willkie Farr
then discussed with the Special Committee a number of open issues relating to
the proposed merger agreement.
On March 24, 1998, Prudential Securities and Mr. Mandell met with Bear
Stearns, Mario and Joseph Sbarro and Mr. Zimmerman to discuss various issues
relating to the Initial Proposal, and, on March 28, 1998, Mr. Mandell had a
telephone conference with Mario Sbarro and Mr. Zimmerman to discuss merger
agreement issues.
Thereafter, Prudential Securities continued to gather information and
conducted diligence concerning the Company and its results of operations,
financial condition and prospects. Prudential Securities and Bear Stearns held
discussions concerning the valuation methodologies employed by Prudential
Securities in its analysis of the Company, and Willkie Farr, Parker Chapin and
Warshaw Burstein continued to negotiate the non-financial terms of a proposed
merger agreement. In addition, the Continuing Shareholders and the Special
Committee negotiated various aspects of the Merger Consideration. During this
period, at times with Bear Stearns, the Continuing Shareholders met with
prospective financing sources.
During the period from January 12, 1998 through June 16, 1998, the
Special Committee held seven formal meetings, including four in which some or
all Special Committee members participated by means of telephone conference. In
addition, the members of the Special Committee held numerous informal
discussions regarding price and terms among themselves and with Willkie Farr and
Prudential Securities.
On June 16, 1998, Mario Sbarro met with Messrs. Mandell and Zimmerman.
Mr. Sbarro advised Mr. Mandell that, while the matter would be further discussed
at the meeting of the Board scheduled for the next day, it was apparent from
ongoing discussions regarding the Initial Proposal that the Continuing
Shareholders and the Special Committee were not going to reach an agreement on
the terms and conditions of a merger. In addition to being unable to reach an
agreement as to the Merger Consideration to be paid to Public Shareholders, the
Continuing Shareholders and the Special Committee had been unable to agree upon,
among other things, the method of handling unvested stock options, the
circumstances under which each party would be entitled to reimbursement for its
expenses in the event of termination of the then proposed merger agreement, the
establishment of basic financing terms that the Continuing Shareholders would
deem acceptable, indemnification and indemnification insurance provisions, and
circumstances under which a party could terminate the proposed merger agreement.
At a special meeting of the Board held on June 17, 1998, Mario Sbarro,
on behalf of the Continuing Shareholders, advised the Board that, because the
Continuing Shareholders and the Special Committee could not agree on mutually
acceptable terms of a transaction, negotiations for a going private transaction
would be terminated. Mr. Sbarro also expressed his belief that it would be in
the best interests of all shareholders for the Company to review various other
strategic alternatives available to the Company. The Board concurred and the
Special Committee was then disbanded.
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A press release was then issued by the Company reporting that an
agreement with the Continuing Shareholders concerning the terms of the proposed
transaction could not be reached, that the suspension of dividends would
continue and that the Company and its investment banker would explore various
strategic alternatives for the benefit of all shareholders. The Board determined
to continue the suspension of dividends while it considered other strategic
alternatives to enhance shareholder value.
On July 20, 1998, the Board held a special meeting at which Bear
Stearns made a presentation to the Board regarding the strategic alternatives
previously discussed at the Board's January 15, 1997 meeting. Bear Stearns
stated its belief that, since negotiations for the proposed going private
transaction had not been successful, based on information provided by the
Company and discussions with management, the two alternatives to consider for
the creation of shareholder value for all shareholders of the Company were a
significant leveraged recapitalization or a sale of the Company. Bear Stearns
also advised that a sale of the Company was only practical if the Continuing
Shareholders were interested in selling their interests in the Company. Bear
Stearns thereupon reviewed with the members of the Board the positive and
negative effects of both types of transactions as they would pertain to
shareholders. Bear Stearns concluded that, if the Continuing Shareholders would
be interested in selling their Common Stock, it believed the most attractive
alternative for increasing shareholder value for all shareholders would be
through a sale of the Company. Bear Stearns indicated that, based on its review
of likely interested purchasers and current market conditions, it believed that
if potential purchasers (i) were confident regarding the Company's growth
prospects, (ii) had either sufficient existing management or could retain new
management if the Sbarro family wished to leave, and (iii) were able to finance
in excess of $500 million of the acquisition price in the debt capital markets,
a sales process could provide shareholder value in the mid-$30s per share. Bear
Stearns also noted that potential financial purchasers may look for continued
participation in a transaction by principal shareholders in order to structure a
transaction that would be entitled to recapitalization accounting treatment. The
representatives of Bear Stearns were then excused from the meeting, at which
time the directors who were Continuing Shareholders indicated to the Board that
at price levels in the range of the mid-$30s per share, the Continuing
Shareholders were willing to consider selling their interests in the Company.
The Continuing Shareholders also advised the Board that, if a potential
purchaser desired the Continuing Shareholders to participate in a transaction,
they would consider doing so under mutually acceptable terms. The Board
thereupon authorized Bear Stearns to determine the interests of potential
strategic and financial purchasers in acquiring the Company, including the price
that they would be willing to pay.
Bear Stearns then prepared a list of potential strategic and financial
purchasers, which it reviewed with the Board and management. A confidential
information memorandum was then prepared which contained a detailed business
description, strategy and growth initiatives and historical and projected
financial information. The financial projections were considerably more
optimistic than the Company's Operating Projections, as they anticipated a more
aggressive expansion of the Company's business into new venues and increases in
comparable store sales and operating margins. See "-- Certain Financial
Projections." On August 6, 1998, Bear Stearns began to contact potential
purchasers. Confidentiality agreements were then prepared and distributed to
potential purchasers who orally had indicated having an interest in obtaining
further information.
On August 17, 1998, the Continuing Shareholders met with Messrs.
Mandell and Zimmerman, and with Parker Chapin and Bear Stearns to review the
status of the business sale process.
At a meeting of the Board held on August 19, 1998, at which
representatives of Bear Stearns participated by telephone conference, Bear
Stearns updated the Board on the status of its contacts with potential
purchasers. Bear Stearns also advised that it would provide the confidential
information memorandum to potential purchasers who executed confidentiality
agreements.
Bear Stearns contacted 38 potential purchasers (12 potential strategic
purchasers and 26 financial purchasers) during August 1998, including the third
party that had expressed an interest in purchasing the
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Continuing Shareholders' Common Stock in 1997. A total of 17 potential
purchasers signed confidentiality agreements and each received the confidential
information memorandum. Potential purchasers were instructed to base their
initial indications of interest on information contained in the confidential
information memorandum and that, if their initial indications of interest were
sufficient, they would be provided the opportunity to meet with management and
perform detailed due diligence in preparation for a final bid. In early
September 1998, Bear Stearns received four written preliminary indications of
interest. The remaining potential purchasers indicated they were not interested
in pursuing a transaction.
Each of the four written preliminary indications of interest were from
potential financial purchasers and reflected an interest in further exploring a
proposed transaction. Each was subject to, among other things, conducting due
diligence, obtaining financing and negotiating acceptable agreements. One
indication of interest contemplated the forming of a new corporation with the
Company's management and other investors to purchase the Company for a cash
price of approximately $30.00-$32.50 per share. During subsequent discussions
with Bear Stearns related to the contemplated amounts and type of debt and
equity financing for the contemplated transaction, the potential purchaser
reduced its indication of interest to approximately $28-$30 per share. A second
indication of interest contemplated the merger of the Company with a financially
troubled restaurant company controlled by a potential financial purchaser. This
proposal contemplated consideration with a face value of $29.00-$31.00 per
share, of which approximately $6.00 was to be in preferred and common stock of a
newly-formed company, with the balance to be paid through the Company's existing
cash and other financing to be sought. The potential financial purchaser would
not commit new equity to the proposed transaction. The remaining two indications
of interest contemplated cash prices of approximately $25.00 per share in one
case and, in the other case, approximately $25.00-$29.00, with a requirement in
the latter case that the Continuing Shareholders participate with the potential
purchaser through the ownership of common stock in the acquiring entity. As part
of the business sale process, Bear Stearns approached each party that had
submitted a preliminary indication of interest to seek an increase in the
contemplated price. None of the parties were willing to increase their original
proposal from the prices indicated above.
On October 7, 1998, in a telephone conference, Bear Stearns informed
participating Board members as to the status of the sale process and the results
of its discussions with the potential purchasers. The Continuing Shareholders
noted that all the bids contemplated a price below the minimum price at which
the Continuing Shareholders had previously indicated their willingness to
consider selling their interests in the Company and indicated that they would
not consider selling their Common Stock at the prices proposed in the
preliminary indications of interest. Based on this information, the Board
advised Bear Stearns to terminate the business sale process.
On October 15, 1998, Mario Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro, Bernard Zimmerman,
Robert S. Koebele (the Company's Chief Financial Officer), Parker Chapin, Bear
Stearns, Richard A. Mandell, as Chairman of the former Special Committee of the
Board, and Willkie Farr and Prudential Securities, which had served as legal and
financial advisors, respectively, to the former Special Committee in connection
with the Initial Proposal, met to determine whether Prudential Securities would
give consideration to another offer from the Continuing Shareholders. Prudential
Securities indicated that it would need to obtain updated information concerning
the Company, review the results of the business sales process which the Company
had conducted through Bear Stearns and review the other factors it previously
had considered before it could determine whether any offer that might be made
would be fair to Public Shareholders from a financial point of view.
At the Board's regularly scheduled quarterly meeting held on November
17, 1998, Mario Sbarro advised the Board that the Continuing Shareholders were,
again, considering a going private transaction to acquire all of the Common
Stock not owned by them. Mr. Sbarro also advised the Board that management had
met with a major bank on behalf of the Continuing Shareholders to determine
whether bank financing was available on acceptable terms and that the Continuing
Shareholders also were considering high-yield debt financing.
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On November 18, 1998, a telephone conference was held among Mario
Sbarro, Messrs. Zimmerman and Mandell, Willkie Farr, Parker Chapin and Bear
Stearns to review then unresolved matters, other than the amount of the Merger
Consideration, at the time the Initial Proposal had been terminated. The
unresolved matters included the method of handling unvested options, the
circumstances under which each party would be entitled to reimbursement for its
expenses in the event of termination of the proposed Merger Agreement, the
establishment of basic financing terms that the Continuing Shareholders would
deem acceptable, indemnification and indemnification insurance provisions, and
the circumstances under which a party could terminate the previously proposed
merger agreement.
Between November 18, 1998 and November 25, 1998, the Continuing
Shareholders consulted with Bear Stearns concerning potential financing for a
going private transaction, and Parker Chapin reviewed with Willkie Farr matters
that had not been resolved in the negotiation of the merger agreement at the
time the Initial Proposal was withdrawn. On November 24, 1998, Mario Sbarro, on
behalf of the Continuing Shareholders, met with Mr. Mandell and Parker Chapin to
review open issues. At that meeting, Mr. Sbarro was advised that, before
specific issues could be resolved, the Continuing Shareholders should make a
formal proposal to the Board.
After the close of business on November 25, 1998, a telephonic meeting
of the Board (at which only Mario Sbarro, and Messrs. Kestenbaum, Mandell,
Vatter and Zimmerman were able to participate due to the short notice given) was
held, at which the Continuing Shareholders submitted a proposal for the Merger
of a company to be formed by them with and into the Company, pursuant to which
each Public Shareholder of the Company would receive $27.50 in cash in exchange
for their shares of Common Stock. This proposal is referred to in this Proxy
Statement as the "REVISED PROPOSAL." The Revised Proposal was, except for the
proposed Merger Consideration, under terms similar to those contained in the
Initial Proposal, including the same conditions. The Continuing Shareholders
advised the Board that they had been informed that Bear Stearns was "highly
confident" in its ability to place or arrange the financing for the Merger.
At the November 25 meeting, the Board reappointed the Special Committee
and, as it had with the Initial Proposal, authorized the Special Committee to
consider and evaluate the Revised Proposal, assess whether it would be in the
best interests of the Company and the Public Shareholders to pursue a
transaction with the Continuing Shareholders, make a recommendation to the Board
with respect to acting on the Revised Proposal and, if appropriate, enter into
and conduct discussions concerning the Revised Proposal and negotiate a
definitive agreement with respect to the Revised Proposal on behalf of the
Company. In addition, the Special Committee was again authorized to retain, at
the expense of the Company, legal counsel and an independent investment banking
firm to assist and advise it in its work concerning the Revised Proposal.
Following this meeting, the Company issued a press release announcing the
Revised Proposal.
Beginning on November 27, 1998, seven lawsuits were commenced against
the Company, those Continuing Shareholders who are directors of the Company and,
except in certain lawsuits, all or some of the other directors. Like the Initial
Proposal Litigation, the lawsuits were purportedly brought by certain Public
Shareholders as class actions on behalf of all Public Shareholders. In general,
the new lawsuits allege that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties,
that the proposed price to be paid Public Shareholders was inadequate and that
there were inadequate procedural protections for the Public Shareholders. These
new actions are referred to in this Proxy Statement as the "CURRENT SHAREHOLDER
LITIGATION." See "LITIGATION PERTAINING TO THE MERGER -- Current Shareholder
Litigation."
During the next several days, informal conversations were held among
members of the Special Committee, in which the Special Committee determined to
again retain Willkie Farr as its legal advisor and Prudential Securities as its
financial advisor based, in large part, upon their respective experience,
expertise and familiarity with the Company gained from participation in the
Initial Proposal, and experience in advising special committees of boards of
directors in similar transactions. Both firms were formally retained at a
meeting of the Special Committee held on Tuesday, December 1, 1998. New
engagement letters with
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Prudential Securities and Willkie Farr were approved. At the December 1 meeting,
the Special Committee also discussed with its advisors the status of several
outstanding issues.
During the period from December 1, 1998 through January 18, 1999,
representatives of Prudential Securities recommenced their due diligence review,
including holding additional discussions with management of the Company
concerning the Company's business, financial condition and prospects. In
connection with this review, the Company provided to Prudential Securities
copies of information relating to the business sale process, including the
confidential information memorandum, which contained long-term projections
prepared by the Company's management in August 1998 and contained in the
confidential information memorandum utilized in the business sale process (the
"BUSINESS SALE PROJECTIONS"), Bear Stearns' potential purchasers' log, and
updated operating projections prepared by the Company's management in October
1998 to reflect then present and expected future business trends and conditions
(the "OPERATING PROJECTIONS"). The Business Sale Projections and the Operating
Projections are referred to collectively as the "PROJECTIONS." See " -- Certain
Financial Projections." Telephone conference calls also took place in which Bear
Stearns provided Prudential Securities with additional information concerning
the business sale process. During this period, Company management held meetings
with potential bank lenders and Bear Stearns regarding possible financing for
the Merger.
On December 3, 1998, Parker Chapin delivered to Willkie Farr a proposed
Merger Agreement reflecting changes requested by the Continuing Shareholders and
certain of the changes that had been requested by the Special Committee at the
time negotiations of the Initial Proposal had terminated and that were
acceptable to the Continuing Shareholders.
On December 15, 1998, representatives of the Continuing Shareholders,
Bear Stearns and the Special Committee met, and the Continuing Shareholders and
the Special Committee negotiated various provisions in the proposed Merger
Agreement. Since Prudential Securities had not completed its diligence
concerning the Company, the Merger Consideration was not discussed.
During the period from December 16, 1998 through January 18, 1999,
various meetings and telephone conferences were held among representatives of
the Continuing Shareholders and representatives of the Special Committee to
negotiate various provisions in the proposed Merger Agreement, including the
Merger Consideration. During this period, the Continuing Shareholders and
members of the Special Committee received various drafts of the proposed Merger
Agreement that were revised to reflect negotiated changes.
In addition, meetings and telephone conferences also were held among
the Continuing Shareholders, Parker Chapin and counsel to certain of the
plaintiffs in the Current Shareholder Litigation. Separate discussions also were
held between the Continuing Shareholders and Richard A. Mandell, Chairman of the
Special Committee, as well as between the representatives of the Special
Committee and counsel to those plaintiffs.
During the week of January 8, 1999, Parker Chapin and counsel for the
plaintiffs in the Current Shareholder Litigation discussed a possible basis for
the settlement of the Current Shareholder Litigation. On January 11, 1999, the
Continuing Shareholders and counsel for the plaintiffs reached a tentative
understanding under which the Continuing Shareholders would increase the price
to be paid for the Public Shares to $28.85 per share. This understanding was
then communicated to Mr. Mandell.
During the next few days, further negotiations were held which resolved
the remaining open issues in the Merger Agreement. A revised draft of the Merger
Agreement and the presentation prepared by Prudential Securities analyzing the
Merger and the Merger Consideration was distributed to all directors on January
15, 1999.
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Meanwhile, during the period from January 12, 1999 through January 19,
1999, representatives of the Continuing Shareholders and counsel for the
plaintiffs in the Current Shareholder Litigation negotiated the remaining terms
of a Memorandum of Understanding to set forth the proposed terms and conditions
for the settlement of the Current Shareholder Litigation.
On January 19, 1999, the Special Committee held a meeting to consider
the Merger Agreement and determine whether to recommend its adoption to the full
Board. The meeting was attended by all members of the Special Committee, with
Paul A. Vatter attending by telephone conference. Representatives of Prudential
Securities and Willkie Farr also attended the meeting. Willkie Farr advised the
members of the Special Committee as to their fiduciary duties in considering
this matter, reviewed the principal terms and conditions of the proposed Merger
Agreement and summarized the terms of the proposed settlement of the Current
Shareholder Litigation. Prudential Securities made a presentation to the Special
Committee, in which it discussed the information described under "--
Presentation and Fairness Opinion of Prudential Securities." Prudential
Securities then rendered its oral opinion (confirmed in writing later that day)
to the Special Committee that, as of such date, the Merger Consideration of
$28.85 per share to be received by the Public Shareholders in the Merger was
fair, from a financial point of view, to the Public Shareholders. At the
conclusion of these presentations and after full discussion, including a
discussion of the items discussed under "--Recommendations of the Special
Committee and the Board of Directors," the Special Committee unanimously
concluded that the Merger, as reflected in the Merger Agreement, and the terms
and provisions of the Merger Agreement, including the Merger Consideration of
$28.85 in cash per share, were fair to, and in the best interests of, the
Company and the Public Shareholders and unanimously resolved to recommend to the
Board that it adopt the Merger Agreement.
Later in the day of January 19, 1999, a meeting of the Board was held
to consider adopting the Merger Agreement. The meeting was attended by all
members of the Board except Carmela Sbarro, with Paul A. Vatter attending by
telephone conference. Representatives of Parker Chapin, Willkie Farr, Warshaw
Burstein and Bear Stearns also attended the meeting. Parker Chapin advised the
members of the Board as to their fiduciary duties and the provisions of the
NYBCL pertaining to the approval of transactions with interested directors. Mr.
Mandell presented a report from the Special Committee which described the
process employed by the Special Committee and its advisors, as well as the
Special Committee's reasons for recommending adoption of the Merger Agreement.
Willkie Farr described for the Board the structure of the Merger and the
principal terms of the Merger Agreement, including the more significant
covenants and closing conditions, and provisions for termination,
indemnification and expense reimbursement. The Board also was advised of the
opinion of Prudential Securities. The Board further was advised by Parker Chapin
that the Memorandum of Understanding to settle the Current Shareholder
Litigation had been executed by counsel to the plaintiffs and contemplated a
$28.85 in cash per share Merger Consideration. After discussion, based in part
on the recommendation of the Special Committee and the fairness opinion received
from Prudential Securities, the members of the Board present at the meeting,
including all members of the Special Committee, unanimously concluded that the
Merger, as reflected in the Merger Agreement, and the terms and provisions of
the Merger Agreement, including the Merger Consideration of $28.85 in cash per
share, were fair to, and in the best interests of, the Company and the Public
Shareholders, unanimously adopted the Merger Agreement, authorized the Company
to enter into the Merger Agreement and resolved to recommend to the Public
Shareholders that they vote to adopt the Merger Agreement. See "--
Recommendation of the Special Committee and the Board of Directors."
Certain directors may have actual or potential conflicts of interest in
connection with this action and recommendation that are discussed below under
"-- Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger and the Company."
Following completion of the meeting of the Board, the Merger Agreement
was executed. Prior to the commencement of trading in the Common Stock on
January 20, 1999, the Company issued a press release
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announcing that the Merger Agreement and the Memorandum of Understanding to
settle the Current Shareholder Litigation had been entered into.
RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
At a meeting of the Special Committee held on January 19, 1999, at
which all members of the Special Committee were present, with Paul A. Vatter
attending by telephone conference, the Special Committee met with its legal and
financial advisors to review the proposed terms of the Merger. The Special
Committee unanimously concluded that the Merger, as reflected in the Merger
Agreement, and the terms and provisions of the Merger Agreement, including the
Merger Consideration of $28.85 in cash per share, were fair to, and in the best
interests of, the Company and the Public Shareholders, and unanimously resolved
to recommend to the Board that it adopt the Merger Agreement.
At a special meeting of the Board held immediately following the
Special Committee's determination, at which all directors of the Company were
present, except for Carmela Sbarro, the Board considered the recommendation of
the Special Committee. The Board members who were present unanimously concluded,
based in part on the recommendation of the Special Committee, that the Merger,
as reflected in the Merger Agreement, and the terms and provisions of the Merger
Agreement, including the Merger Consideration of $28.85 in cash per share, were
fair to, and in the best interests of the Company and the Public Shareholders,
unanimously adopted the Merger Agreement, authorized the Company to enter into
the Merger Agreement and unanimously resolved to recommend to the Public
Shareholders that they vote to adopt the Merger Agreement.
The Special Committee addressed its recommendation to the Board and the
Board specifically addressed its recommendation to the Public Shareholders as a
separate individual class. Neither the Special Committee nor the Board addressed
its recommendation to the Continuing Shareholders.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE. In determining to recommend that the Board adopt the
Merger Agreement, the Special Committee considered a number of factors. The
material factors considered by the Special Committee were:
(1) Prudential Securities' opinion that, as of January 19, 1999,
the date of the Special Committee's meeting to consider the
Merger, the Merger Consideration was fair, from a financial
point of view, to the Public Shareholders. The full text of
Prudential Securities' opinion, describing various
considerations, assumptions and limitations stated therein, is
set forth in Annex II to this Proxy Statement. The Special
Committee also considered the presentations by Prudential
Securities to the Special Committee regarding:
o the Company's current financial condition, results of
operations and future prospects (both as a public and
a private company);
o the industry in which the Company operates and the
financial, operating and stock price history of the
Company in comparison to certain pizza and value
priced Italian restaurant companies and fast food
restaurant companies, including considerations of
current market prices, historical market prices,
sales growth, discounted cash flow, enterprise value
and equity value, as well as an analysis of the
valuation of comparable transactions, all of which
are reflected in the report presented by Prudential
Securities to the Board on January 19, 1999, and in
the opinion of Prudential Securities; and
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<PAGE>
o Bear Stearns' "highly confident" letter and related
term sheet relating to the financing for the Merger,
which are annexed as Exhibits "A" and "B",
respectively, to the Merger Agreement.
See "-- Presentation and Fairness Opinion of Prudential
Securities."
(2) The fact that the Merger Agreement and the Merger
Consideration are the product of arms' length negotiations
between the Continuing Shareholders and the Special Committee,
as well as between the Continuing Shareholders and counsel to
the plaintiffs in the Current Shareholder Litigation. These
extensive negotiations led to an increase in the proposed
Merger Consideration from $27.50 to $28.85 per share, which
the Continuing Shareholders agreed to on the condition that
this price was final and there would be no further
negotiations. The Continuing Shareholders made it clear in
these discussions that $28.85 per share was the highest price
that they would be willing to pay.
(3) The solicitation of interest with respect to the possible sale
of the Company in August and September 1998. Despite a
solicitation conducted for the Company by Bear Stearns to 38
potential purchasers, the process yielded only four written
preliminary indications of interest, none of which were
acceptable to the Continuing Shareholders. The Special
Committee recognized that, while the Merger Consideration was
within the range of prices in certain of the preliminary
indications of interest, other preliminary indications of
interest were below the Merger Consideration. Further, it
recognized that the prospective acquirors provided their
indications based on the Business Sale Projections and without
having conducted diligence and, therefore, there was a risk
that they would lower their contemplated prices. The Special
Committee also noted that, while certain of the preliminary
indications included higher potential prices, that did not
alter the fact that the Merger Consideration itself was fair.
In addition, the Special Committee noted that any indications
of interest were subject to obtaining financing and that any
unaffiliated purchaser would need to purchase the shares held
by the Public Shareholders as well as the Continuing
Shareholders. Therefore, a purchase transaction would be more
expensive for an unaffiliated party than for the Continuing
Shareholders even at the same or somewhat lower per share
merger consideration. The additional financing that would be
required for such a purchase made the consummation of such a
transaction with those submitting higher preliminary
indications of interest even less likely. The Special
Committee also was advised that none of Bear Stearns, the
Company or the Continuing Shareholders had received any
proposals for the purchase of the business or the Common Stock
owned by the Continuing Shareholders since the termination of
the business sale process on October 7, 1998. See "--
Background of the Transaction."
(4) The terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, including:
o the ability of the Board to furnish information to,
and enter into negotiations with, third parties with
respect to unsolicited alternative offers or
proposals if, in its good faith judgment, the
proposal is more favorable to the Company's
shareholders than the Merger, is achievable and
supported by creditable financing, and the Board's
failure to take these actions would otherwise breach
its fiduciary duties to the Company's shareholders
under applicable law (see "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- No
Solicitation; Fiduciary Obligations of Directors");
o the requirement that the Merger Agreement be adopted
by the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes
cast at the Meeting, excluding votes cast by the
Continuing
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Shareholders, abstentions and broker non-votes, as
well as by two-thirds of the votes of all outstanding
shares of Common Stock;
o the requirement that the approval of the Special
Committee is required for any action that may be
taken by the Board pursuant to the Merger Agreement
(including any amendment or termination of the Merger
Agreement or waiver of any of the Company's rights
thereunder); and
o the absence of any termination or "break up" fees
payable by the Company and the fact that (i) the
Company's only financial obligation to the Continuing
Shareholders in the event of termination of the
Merger Agreement would be the payment of the
Continuing Shareholders' fees and expenses, up to
$500,000, and that such payment would not be made if
the Merger Agreement is terminated because of (a)
failure of the Continuing Shareholders to obtain
financing (unless resulting from a material adverse
change in the securities, financial or borrowing
markets) or (b) a breach by Mergeco or the Continuing
Shareholders of their representations, warranties or
covenants, and (ii) if the Merger Agreement is
terminated due to failure of the Continuing
Shareholders to obtain financing (unless resulting
from a material adverse change in the securities,
financial or borrowing markets), then Mergeco and the
Continuing Shareholders would, jointly and severally,
be obligated to pay the Company for 50% of the fees
and expenses incurred by the Company, up to $500,000.
(5) The receipt by the Continuing Shareholders and Mergeco of a
"highly confident" letter and related term sheet from Bear
Stearns with respect to the arrangement of the necessary
financing for the Merger, copies of which are attached as
exhibits to the Merger Agreement. This procedure enabled the
Special Committee to be assured that the "highly confident"
letter would pertain to the same basic financing terms that
the Continuing Shareholders agreed would limit their ability
to terminate the Merger Agreement for a failure to obtain
satisfactory financing.
(6) The Merger Consideration of $28.85 per share, which represents
a premium of 16.3% over $24-13/16, the closing price per share
of the Common Stock on the NYSE on November 25, 1998, the day
on which, following the close of trading, the Company
announced the Revised Proposal. The Special Committee also
considered that between January 1, 1994 and January 20, 1998,
the date the Company announced the Initial Proposal, the
Common Stock had traded in a relatively narrow price range
between a low of $19.875 per share (on May 1, 1995) and a high
of $29.9375 per share (on October 14, 1997), closing at
$26.3125 per share on December 31, 1997 and $26.375 on January
16, 1998, the last trading day prior to January 20, 1998. The
Special Committee also noted that, while following the
announcement of the Initial Proposal, the market price of the
Common Stock reached $30.125 per share on March 13, 1998, it
believed this resulted from speculation that a higher merger
consideration might be negotiated. The Special Committee also
noted that the Common Stock traded as low as $18.3125 per
share on September 21, 1998, approximately three months after
the announcement of termination of the Initial Proposal.
Accordingly, the Special Committee gave greater weight to the
narrow price range at which the Common Stock traded between
1994 and 1997 and concluded that those prices were indicative
of investors' view of the value of the Common Stock.
(7) The Company's current financial condition, results of
operations and future prospects (both as a public company and
as a private company), as well as the strategic direction of
its business and the trends in the restaurant industry, based
upon the knowledge of the members
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of the Special Committee, each of whom has been a director of
the Company for more than the past ten years. Specifically,
the Special Committee concluded that, while the Company's
results of operations and financial condition were strong, the
fact that there has been a decline in the Company's rate of
growth in both operating revenues (from 11.4% in 1994 to 6.0%
in 1997, in each case over the preceding year) and operating
income (from 13.1% in 1994 to 1.1% in 1997, in each case over
the preceding year) in recent years and the fact that
comparable unit sales and operating margins had remained
relatively flat may limit the potential for an increase in the
market price of the Common Stock. The Special Committee also
considered (i) the maturity of the Company's existing core
business, (ii) the limited prospects of significant growth in
the Company's core business and (iii) uncertain growth
prospects of the Company's existing joint ventures and any
future concepts the Company might develop. In reviewing the
Company's future business prospects, the Special Committee
reviewed both the Business Sale Projections contained in the
confidential memorandum utilized in the business sale process
in August 1998 and the Operating Projections discussed under
"-- Certain Financial Projections". The Special Committee
considered the fact that the Operating Projections constituted
the material assumptions that underlay Prudential Securities'
opinion (see "-- Presentation and Fairness Opinion of
Prudential Securities") and recognized that the Business Sale
Projections assumed an aggressive expansion strategy to
solicit interest from potential purchasers by presenting the
possibility for significant growth in both revenue and
earnings before interest income, interest expense, taxes,
depreciation and amortization, and non-recurring and
extraordinary charges and credits ("EBITDA"). In particular,
the Business Sale Projections assumed that the Company's
future growth would be derived primarily from a significant
increase in the opening of core Sbarro restaurant units and
Umberto's of New Hyde Park joint venture restaurants. The
Special Committee believed these assumptions were not
realistic. In addition, the Special Committee considered that
the Business Sale Projections represented the opportunities a
potential buyer of the Company might have with a different
approach to operating the Company and a different management
team. Therefore, the Special Committee concluded that the
Business Sale Projections were not relevant to a going concern
analysis and gave no weight to the Business Sale Projections
in making its determination. The Special Committee viewed the
Operating Projections as a more realistic view of the
Company's future prospects in that the Operating Projections
were more in line with the Company's historical financial
trends.
(8) The fact that no regulatory approvals are required in order
for Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders to consummate the
Merger other than, in certain cases, obtaining approvals under
alcohol and beverage licenses of the Company resulting from a
technical "change of control" of the Company, which approvals
are likely to be obtained since "control" would be passing to
the Continuing Shareholders who were approved with respect to
the Company. On the other hand, it is likely that, in addition
to obtaining alcohol and beverage license approvals or
transfers, other regulatory approvals (including under the
Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvement Act of 1976, as
amended), not required with respect to the Merger, would be
required if the Company were to be sold to others. See "--
Regulatory Approvals."
The Special Committee did not attempt to determine the liquidation
value of the Company and did not give significant weight to the per share book
value of the Company (which was $11.78 at October 4, 1998, the end of the
Company's last fiscal quarter for which such information was calculated prior to
the Special Committee's determination), because there was no intention to
liquidate the Company and because both book value was, and liquidation value was
believed to be, well below the Merger Consideration. The Special Committee
considered the preliminary indications of interest received as part of the
business sale process and the Merger Consideration negotiated with the
Continuing Shareholders to be indicative of the Company's going concern value.
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<PAGE>
In recommending that the Board adopt the Merger Agreement, the Special
Committee was aware, and considered as a negative factor, that if the Merger is
consummated, the Public Shareholders would no longer have an equity interest in
the Company and, therefore, would not participate in any potential future
earnings and growth of the Company. In this regard, the Special Committee also
considered that if the Business Sale Projections contained in the confidential
information memorandum utilized in the business sale process in August 1998
discussed under "-- Certain Financial Projections" are realized, the Common
Stock could significantly increase in value. The Special Committee also noted
that Prudential Securities, in rendering its opinion as to the fairness of the
Merger Consideration to the Public Shareholders, relied on the Company's updated
Operating Projections and not the Business Sale Projections. The Special
Committee concluded that, in light of its analysis of the Company, its business
and its growth prospects, receiving a premium above the market price of the
Common Stock by Public Shareholders is preferable to an uncertain future return.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS. In reaching its determination that the Merger
and Merger Consideration are fair to, and in the best interests of, the Company
and the Public Shareholders, adopting the Merger Agreement and recommending that
the Public Shareholders adopt the Merger Agreement, the Board considered and
specifically adopted the conclusions and recommendation of the Special Committee
and the factors described above which the Special Committee took into account in
making its recommendation to the Board. The Company will continue its operations
following completion of the Merger. However, shareholders of the Company, other
than the Continuing Shareholders, will no longer have an equity interest in the
Company and, therefore, will not participate in any potential future earnings
and growth of the Company.
In light of the number and variety of factors that the Special
Committee and Board considered in their respective evaluations of the Merger,
neither the Special Committee nor the Board found it practicable to assign
relative weights to the foregoing factors and, accordingly, neither did so.
Each of the Special Committee and the Board believes that the Merger is
procedurally fair because, among other things, (i) the Special Committee
consisted of independent directors appointed by the Board to represent solely
the interests of, and to negotiate on behalf of, the Public Shareholders, (ii)
the Special Committee retained and was advised by Willkie Farr as its own legal
counsel, which assisted the Special Committee in its negotiations, (iii) the
Special Committee retained Prudential Securities to assist it in evaluating the
Merger Consideration and received an opinion from Prudential Securities as to
the fairness of the Merger Consideration to the Public Shareholders from a
financial point of view, (iv) the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement,
including the Merger Consideration, resulted from arms' length negotiations
between the Special Committee and the Continuing Shareholders and their
respective advisors, (v) the Merger Consideration was also negotiated between
counsel to the plaintiffs in the Current Shareholder Litigation and the
Continuing Shareholders and their respective advisors, and (vi) the Merger
Agreement must be adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes
cast at the Meeting excluding votes cast by Continuing Shareholders, abstentions
and broker non-votes, in addition to the statutory requirement that the Merger
Agreement be adopted by two-thirds of the votes of all outstanding shares of
Common Stock.
EACH OF THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS BELIEVES THAT
THE MERGER IS FAIR TO, AND IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF, THE COMPANY AND THE PUBLIC
SHAREHOLDERS. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS HAS ADOPTED THE MERGER AGREEMENT AND
RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE "FOR" ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT.
Except to the extent a recommendation is made in a person's capacity as
a director, no executive officer of the Company, nor any of the Continuing
Shareholders or Mergeco has made any recommendation with respect to adoption of
the Merger Agreement or any other transaction contemplated by the Merger
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<PAGE>
Agreement. The Continuing Shareholders and Mergeco have agreed to vote their
Common Stock in favor of adoption of the Merger Agreement.
The Continuing Shareholders, Mergeco and the Company have been informed
by the other directors and executive officers of the Company, who owned an
aggregate of 31,568 shares of Common Stock on the Record Date, that they plan to
vote their Common Stock in favor of adoption of the Merger.
THE CONTINUING SHAREHOLDERS' PURPOSE AND REASONS FOR THE MERGER
The Continuing Shareholders entered into the Merger Agreement in order
to become the sole owners of the Company. The transaction is structured as a
merger, in which the equity interest in the Company of all the Public
Shareholders would be extinguished in exchange for $28.85 in cash per share of
Common Stock. A merger enables the transaction to be completed in one step,
which would minimize the risk that the contemplated transactions will not be
finalized and reduce transaction costs.
The Continuing Shareholders believe that causing the Company to be
closely held will:
o Enable the Company's management to focus on long-term growth
without having to meet the expectations of many Public
Shareholders for short-term results. While the Company's
management has been taking steps to address some of the
Company's long-term issues by closing under-performing units,
focusing on operating units more likely to succeed with less
emphasis on revenue growth and seeking to expand through joint
ventures to develop new restaurant concepts, this process had
not resulted in an improvement in the market price of the
Common Stock.
o Provide the Continuing Shareholders with increased flexibility
in dealing with matters of succession and estate planning.
o Enable the Company to elect to be taxed under the provisions
of Subchapter S under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended (the "CODE"), enabling equity owners the ability to
avoid the double tax on distributions that presently exists on
dividends paid by the Company (although each shareholder is
taxed on his share of the Company's income whether or not it
is distributed).
o Afford the Continuing Shareholders the possible advantages of
owning a "highly leveraged" entity, where any improvement in
earnings, after interest expense (which would be tax
deductible), inures to the benefit of shareholders and not
lenders. The Continuing Shareholders recognize, however, that
the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement will
involve a substantial risk to them because of the large amount
of indebtedness to be incurred by the Surviving Corporation in
connection with the consummation of the Merger. See "--
Financing of the Merger."
o Reduce costs associated with publishing and distributing to
its shareholders annual and quarterly reports and proxy
statements, which the Continuing Shareholders estimate will
result in annual savings to the Company of approximately
$200,000, since the Company will no longer be subject to the
proxy solicitation rules under the Exchange Act, although as a
result of the proposed Debt Financing, the Company will be
required to continue to file quarterly and annual reports with
the SEC or deliver similar documents to investors in the Debt
Financing.
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The Continuing Shareholders and Mergeco have concluded that the Merger,
including the Merger Consideration of $28.85 per share in cash and the terms and
conditions of the Merger Agreement, are fair to the Company and the Public
Shareholders based upon the following factors:
(1) Prudential Securities rendered an opinion to the Special
Committee to the effect that, as of January 19, 1999, the date
the Merger Agreement was entered into, based upon and subject
to various considerations, assumptions and limitations stated
therein, the Merger Consideration was fair, from a financial
point of view, to the Public Shareholders.
(2) The conclusions as to the fairness of the Merger Consideration
of the Special Committee and the Board.
(3) The Special Committee, consisting solely of independent
directors, unanimously recommended that the Board adopt the
Merger Agreement.
(4) The Merger Consideration and the other terms and conditions of
the Merger Agreement were the result of arms' length, good
faith negotiations between the Special Committee and the
Continuing Shareholders and their respective advisors, as well
as, in the case of the Merger Consideration, between counsel
to the plaintiffs in the Current Shareholder Litigation and
the Continuing Shareholders and their respective advisors that
resulted in an increase in the Merger Consideration from
$27.50 per share to $28.85 per share.
(5) During the substantial period of time which would elapse
between the announcement of entering into the Merger Agreement
and the Effective Time, there would be ample time and
opportunity for other persons to propose alternative
transactions to the Merger, and that the Merger Agreement
permits the Board to furnish information to, and enter into
negotiations with, third parties with respect to unsolicited
alternative offers or proposals if, in the Board's good faith
judgment, the proposal is more favorable to the Company's
shareholders than the Merger, is achievable, is supported by
creditable financing and the Board's failure to take these
actions would otherwise breach its fiduciary duties to the
Company's shareholders under applicable law.
(6) The Merger Consideration represents a premium of 16.3% over
the closing per share market price of the Common Stock on the
NYSE on the date the Continuing Shareholders made the Revised
Proposal.
(7) The Continuing Shareholders reviewed the historical price
range of the Common Stock and concluded that the price range
of $20.375 to $29.9375, at which the Common Stock traded from
January 1, 1994 until the Initial Proposal on January 20, 1998
(see "-- Recommendations of the Special Committee and the
Board of Directors"), was indicative of investors' view of the
value of the Common Stock.
(8) The other factors discussed above which were taken into
account by the Special Committee and the Board (see "--
Recommendations of the Special Committee and the Board of
Directors").
The Continuing Shareholders did not attempt to determine the
liquidation value of the Company and did not give significant weight to the per
share book value of the Company (which was $11.78 at October 4, 1998, the end of
the Company's last fiscal quarter for which such information was calculated
prior to the Special Committee's determination), because there is no intention
to liquidate the Company and because both book value was, and liquidation value
was believed to be, well below the Merger Consideration. The Continuing
Shareholders also considered the preliminary indications of interest received as
part of the
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business sale process and the Merger Consideration negotiated with the Special
Committee and counsel to the plaintiffs in the Current Shareholder Litigation to
be indicative of the Company's going concern value.
The only alternative transactions considered by the Continuing
Shareholders were a sale of the Company and a leveraged recapitalization. The
Continuing Shareholders were willing to consider selling their interests in the
Company at a price in the range of the mid-$30s per share. However, after the
sale process failed to produce a potential purchaser in that price range, the
Board abandoned this alternative. The Continuing Shareholders determined to
pursue a going private transaction in which they would become owners of 100% of
the equity interests in the Company through the Merger so that they could have
greater control over the future direction of the Company, including with regard
to ownership and estate planning, than they would if the Company pursued a
leveraged recapitalization.
The Continuing Shareholders recognize that the Merger Consideration of
$28.85 per share in cash is less than the price at which they were willing to
consider selling their interests in the Company and below the per share price at
which certain (and above the price at which other) third parties expressed a
preliminary interest in acquiring the Company. The Continuing Shareholders were
willing to consider a sale of their interests in the Company, which was founded
by their family and bears their family name, only at a price which included a
significant premium to the market price of the Common Stock. The Continuing
Shareholders believe that the fact that the Merger Consideration is less than
the premium price they were willing to consider does not render the Merger
Consideration unfair.
The Continuing Shareholders believe that the Merger will afford Public
Shareholders the benefit of being able to determine, by a majority of the votes
cast, other than votes of the Continuing Shareholders, abstentions and broker
non-votes, whether to dispose of their Common Stock at a 16.3% premium over the
market price of the Common Stock on the NYSE on November 25, 1998, the date the
Continuing Shareholders made the Revised Proposal. The Continuing Shareholders
noted that, over the five years ended December 31, 1997 (the end of the year
preceding their Initial Proposal), the market price of the Company's Common
Stock increased only 19%, while the Standard & Poor's Restaurant Index increased
80% and the Standard & Poor's 500 Index increased 123%. The Continuing
Shareholders also recognized that the Operating Projections for the five years
ending at the end of fiscal 2002 did not indicate a dramatic increase in the
percentage of revenue growth, while the Company's EBITDA margin percentage was
projected to remain steady and its operating margin percentage was projected to
increase slightly (see "Certain Financial Projections"). The Continuing
Shareholders concluded that, absent significant growth in these areas, it was
unlikely that there would be significant increase in the market price of its
Common Stock.
The Continuing Shareholders recognize that, following the Merger, the
Public Shareholders will no longer have an equity interest in the Company and,
therefore, will not participate in any potential future earnings and growth of
the Company. While this could be detrimental to the Public Shareholders if the
Company successfully grows, the Continuing Shareholders noted that the market
price of the Common Stock has been trading within a relatively narrow range with
the reduction in the Company's rate of growth and believe that any significant
business growth that would affect the market price of the Common Stock is
uncertain and long-term. Accordingly, the Continuing Shareholders believe that
offering Public Shareholders the opportunity to select, by majority action of
the Public Shareholders (other than abstensions and broker non-votes), the
present receipt of the Merger Consideration instead of a speculative future
return is appropriate.
PRESENTATION AND FAIRNESS OPINION OF PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES
On January 19, 1999, Prudential Securities delivered its opinion to the
Special Committee to the effect that, as of such date, the Merger Consideration
was fair, from a financial point of view, to the Public
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Shareholders. Prudential Securities presented the financial analysis underlying
its opinion at a meeting of the Special Committee on January 19, 1999.
The full text of the Prudential Securities opinion, which sets forth
the assumptions made, matters considered and limits on the review undertaken, is
attached to this Proxy Statement as Annex II and is incorporated herein by
reference. The summary of the Prudential Securities opinion set forth below is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Prudential
Securities opinion. You are urged to read the Prudential Securities opinion in
its entirety.
THE PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES OPINION IS DIRECTED ONLY TO THE FAIRNESS OF
THE MERGER CONSIDERATION TO THE PUBLIC SHAREHOLDERS FROM A FINANCIAL POINT OF
VIEW. IT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A RECOMMENDATION TO ANY SHAREHOLDER AS TO HOW THAT
SHAREHOLDER SHOULD VOTE AT THE MEETING OR AS TO ANY OTHER ACTION THAT
SHAREHOLDER SHOULD TAKE REGARDING THE PROPOSED MERGER.
The full text of the presentation by Prudential Securities relating to
its opinion is attached as an exhibit to the Schedule 13E-3 Transaction
Statement (the "SCHEDULE 13E-3") filed with the SEC with respect to the Merger.
The Schedule 13E-3 and all exhibits, including the Prudential Securities
presentation, may be inspected and copied at, and obtained by mail, from the SEC
as set forth under the section heading "AVAILABLE INFORMATION" and will be made
available for inspection and copying at the principal executive offices of the
Company during regular business hours by any interested shareholder of the
Company or an interested shareholder's representative who has been so designated
in writing.
In conducting its analysis and arriving at its opinion, Prudential
Securities reviewed such information and considered such financial data and
other factors as Prudential Securities deemed relevant under the circumstances,
including the following:
o a draft, dated January 19, 1999, of the Merger Agreement,
including the exhibits thereto;
o a draft, dated January 19, 1999, of the "highly confident"
letter from Bear Stearns to certain of the Continuing
Shareholders and Mergeco;
o certain publicly available historical, financial and operating
data for the Company including, but not limited to, (i) the
Annual Report to shareholders and Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the fiscal year ended December 28, 1997, (ii) the
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended
October 4, 1998, (iii) Current Reports on Forms 8-K, filed
with the SEC on June 18, 1998, September 22, 1998 and December
2, 1998, and (iv) the Proxy Statement relating to the Annual
Meeting of Shareholders held on August 19, 1998;
o historical stock market prices and trading volumes for the
Common Stock;
o certain information relating to the Company, including
projected balance sheets, income statements and cash flow data
for the 1998 through 2003 fiscal years, prepared by the
management of the Company;
o the Company's confidential information memorandum dated August
1998, and the preliminary written indications of interest
received from prospective purchasers;
o publicly available financial, operating and stock market data
concerning certain companies engaged in businesses that
Prudential Securities deemed comparable to the Company or
otherwise relevant to its inquiry;
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o the financial terms of certain recent transactions, including
"going private" transactions, that Prudential Securities
deemed relevant to its inquiry; and
o such other financial studies, analyses and investigations that
Prudential Securities deemed relevant to its inquiry.
Prudential Securities assumed, with the Company's consent, that the
draft of the Merger Agreement that they reviewed would conform in all material
respects to the definitive Merger Agreement.
Prudential Securities discussed with management of the Company (i) the
past and current operating results and financial condition of the Company, (ii)
the prospects for the Company, (iii) management's estimates of the Company's
future financial performance, and (iv) such other matters as Prudential
Securities deemed relevant. Prudential Securities also considered qualitative
factors associated with the proposed Merger, including the existing management
profile and stock ownership.
In connection with its review and analysis and in the preparation of
its opinion, Prudential Securities relied upon the accuracy and completeness of
the financial and other information publicly available or provided to it by the
Company and has not undertaken any independent verification of such information
or any independent valuation or appraisal of any of the assets or liabilities of
the Company. With respect to certain financial forecasts of the Company that the
Company's management provided to Prudential Securities, Prudential Securities
assumed that such information, and the assumptions and bases therefor,
represented the Company's management's best then available estimate as to the
future financial performance of the Company. Further, the Prudential Securities
opinion was based on economic, financial and market conditions as they existed
on the date the opinion was rendered and can only be evaluated as of such date,
and Prudential Securities assumes no responsibility to update or revise the
Prudential Securities opinion based upon events or circumstances occurring after
that date.
For purposes of its analysis and preparation of its opinion, Prudential
Securities used the Operating Projections, rather than the Business Sale
Projections, because the Business Sale Projections assumed an aggressive
expansion strategy and were designed to solicit interest from potential
purchasers by presenting the possibility for significant growth in both revenues
and EBITDA. The Operating Projections represented management's then current view
of the Company's future prospects in light of present and expected future
business trends. The Operating Projections constitute the material assumptions
that underlie the Prudential Securities opinion. See "-- Certain Financial
Projections."
The Prudential Securities opinion, including Prudential Securities'
presentation of such opinion to the Special Committee, was one of the many
factors that the Special Committee took into consideration in making its
determination to recommend to the Board adoption of the Merger Agreement. See
"-- Recommendations of the Special Committee and the Board of Directors."
Consequently, Prudential Securities' analyses described below should not be
viewed as solely determinative of the opinion of the Special Committee with
respect to the Merger Consideration.
In arriving at its opinion, Prudential Securities performed a variety
of financial analyses, including those summarized in this Proxy Statement. The
summary set forth below of the analyses presented to the Special Committee at
the January 19, 1999 meeting does not purport to be a complete description of
the analyses performed. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex
process that involves various determinations as to the most appropriate and
relevant methods of financial analyses and the application of these methods to
the particular circumstance. Therefore, such an opinion is not necessarily
susceptible to partial analysis or summary description. Prudential Securities
believes that its analyses must be considered as a whole and selecting portions
thereof or portions of the factors considered by it, without considering all
analyses and factors, could create an incomplete view of the evaluation process
underlying its opinion. Prudential Securities made numerous assumptions with
respect to industry performance, general business,
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economic, market and financial conditions and other matters, many of which are
beyond the control of the Company. Any estimates contained in Prudential
Securities' analyses are not necessarily indicative of actual values or future
results, which may be significantly more or less favorable than suggested by
such analyses. Additionally, estimates of the values of businesses and
securities do not purport to be appraisals or necessarily reflect the prices at
which businesses or securities may be sold. Accordingly, such analyses and
estimates are inherently subject to substantial uncertainty. Subject to the
foregoing, the following is a summary of all the material financial analyses
presented by Prudential Securities to the Special Committee on January 19, 1999.
RISK AND GROWTH ANALYSIS. Prudential Securities reviewed and compared
certain financial and operating information relating to the Company to
corresponding financial and operating information for selected groups of certain
companies that were considered by Prudential Securities to be reasonably similar
to the Company. The first group of companies consisted of pizza and value priced
Italian food companies, including CEC Entertainment, Inc. (which operates Chuck
E. Cheese's pizza restaurants), Darden Restaurants, Inc. (which operates The
Olive Garden restaurants), NPC International, Inc. (a franchisee of Pizza Hut
restaurants and delivery units), Pizza Inn, Inc. (a franchisor of Pizza Inn
restaurants), and Uno Restaurant Corporation (an owner/operator and franchisor
of Pizzeria Uno Chicago Bar & Grill restaurants), referred to here as the "PIZZA
AND ITALIAN FOOD COMPARABLE COMPANIES." While none of the restaurants owned,
operated or franchised by the Pizza and Italian Food Comparable Companies
operate cafeteria-style restaurants as does the Company, those restaurants offer
menu options similar to those offered by the Company. The second group of
companies consisted of fast food companies, including Foodmaker, Inc., Tricon
Global Restaurants, Inc., Sonic Corp. and Wendy's International, Inc., referred
to here as the "FAST FOOD COMPARABLE COMPANIES." The Pizza and Italian Food
Comparable Companies and the Fast Food Comparable Companies are referred to
collectively as the "COMPARABLE COMPANIES."
When compared to the Pizza and Italian Food Comparable Companies,
Prudential Securities' analysis showed, among other things, that:
o comparable restaurant sales growth over the trailing eight
quarters ended between September 27, 1998 and November 29,
1998 ranged from - 9.7% to 14.2% compared to - 0.9% to 1.6%
for the Company;
o projected consensus earnings per share growth rate for five
years ranged from 11% to 22% compared to 5.0% for the Company;
o historical sales growth over two years ranged from - 0.6% to
18.4% compared to 4.5% for the Company;
o historical EBITDA growth over two years ranged from - 6.2% to
64.2% compared to 6.7% for the Company;
o historical earnings before interest and taxes ("EBIT") growth
over two years ranged from - 9.1% to 301.2% compared to 9.5%
for the Company;
o historical net income growth over two years ranged from - 9.2%
to 17% compared to 10.1% for the Company;
o total latest twelve months ("LTM") sales as of the latest
reported quarter prior to January 19, 1999 ranged from $68.2
million to $3,409.6 million compared to $357.9 million for the
Company;
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o number of restaurants as of the latest reported quarter prior
to January 19, 1999 ranged from 163 to 1,143 compared to 881
for the Company;
o equity market capitalization as of January 12, 1999 ranged
from $48.0 million to $2,532.8 million compared to $521.2
million for the Company;
o enterprise value as of January 12, 1999 ranged from $54.8
million to $2,840.6 million compared to $395.4 million for the
Company;
o LTM EBITDA margins as of the latest reported quarter prior to
January 19, 1999 ranged from 9.8% to 21.9% compared to 22.3%
for the Company;
o LTM EBIT margins as of the latest reported quarter prior to
January 19, 1999 ranged from 6.0% to 14.8% compared to 15.9%
for the Company;
o total debt to total book capitalization as of the latest
reported quarter prior to January 19, 1999 ranged from 0.5x to
0.1x compared to 0.0x for the Company; and
o LTM net income margins as of the latest reported quarter prior
to January 19, 1999 ranged from 3.1% to 8.6% compared to 10.7%
for the Company.
When compared to the Fast Food Comparable Companies, Prudential
Securities' analysis showed, among other things, that:
o comparable restaurant sales growth over trailing eight
quarters ending between August 31, 1998 and October 4, 1998
ranged from 2.0% to 10.3% compared to - 0.9% to 1.6% for the
Company;
o projected consensus earnings per share growth rate for five
years ranged from 14.0% to 20.0% compared to 5.0% for the
Company;
o historical sales growth over two years ranged from - 2.8% to
20.4% compared to 4.5% for the Company;
o historical EBITDA growth over two years ranged from - 4.9% to
20.9% compared to 6.7% for the Company;
o historical EBIT growth over two years ranged from 0.6% to
18.8% compared to 9.5% for the Company;
o historical net income growth over two years ranged from 11.1%
to 41.1% compared to 10.1% for the Company;
o total LTM sales as of the latest reported quarter prior to
January 19, 1999 ranged from $219.1 million to $8,732.0
million compared to $357.9 million for the Company;
o number of restaurants as of the latest reported quarter prior
to January 19, 1999 ranged from 1,414 to 29,600 compared to
881 for the Company;
o equity market capitalization as of January 12, 1999 ranged
from $443.5 million to $7,656.0 million compared to $521.2
million for the Company;
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o enterprise value as of January 12, 1999 ranged from $510.8
million to $11,251.0 million compared to $395.4 million for
the Company;
o LTM EBITDA margins as of the latest reported quarter prior to
January 19, 1999 ranged from 11.4% to 23.1% compared to 22.3%
for the Company;
o LTM EBIT margins as of the latest reported quarter prior to
January 19, 1999 ranged from 7.8% to 17.5% compared to 15.9%
for the Company;
o total debt to total book capitalization as of the latest
reported quarter prior to January 19, 1999 ranged from 1.6x to
0.3x compared to 0.0x for the Company; and
o LTM net income margins as of the latest reported quarter prior
to January 19, 1999 ranged from 1.6% to 10.2% compared to
10.7% for the Company.
DISCOUNTED CASH FLOW ANALYSIS. Prudential Securities also considered
the results of a discounted cash flow analysis of the Company. Prudential
Securities calculated the net present value of the Company's projected five-year
stream of unlevered free cash flows and projected terminal value multiple of
2003 EBITDA, based on the financial projections provided to Prudential
Securities by the Company. Prudential Securities applied discount rates ranging
from 10.50% to 14.50% and terminal value multiples of 5.0x and 6.0x. This
analysis resulted in an implied range of per share value of $25.99 to $31.92.
COMPARABLE COMPANIES ANALYSIS. A comparable companies analysis was
employed by Prudential Securities to establish a range of implied equity values
per share of common stock. Prudential Securities analyzed publicly available
historical and projected financial results, including:
o current enterprise value as a multiple of: LTM revenues, LTM
EBITDA and LTM EBIT.
o current equity value as a multiple of: LTM net income,
projected 1998 earnings per share ("1998 EPS"), projected 1999
earnings per share ("1999 EPS") and book value (at October 4,
1998); and
The Pizza and Italian Food Comparable Companies were found to have a
range of enterprise value as a multiple of LTM Revenues of 0.6x to 1.3x; a range
of enterprise value as a multiple of LTM EBITDA of 4.6x to 8.5x; a range of
enterprise value as a multiple of LTM EBIT of 8.1x to 13.9x; a range of equity
value as a multiple of LTM net income of 10.9x to 21.0x; a range of equity value
as a multiple of 1998 EPS of 12.3x to 22.0x; a range of equity value as a
multiple of 1999 EPS of 11.6x to 18.8x; and a range of equity value as a
multiple of book value of 1.0x to 2.6x. Applying such multiples to the Company's
LTM revenues, LTM EBITDA, LTM EBIT, LTM net income, 1998 EPS, 1999 EPS and book
value resulted in an implied range of equity value per share of $11.54 to $43.95
with a mean of $27.17 and a median of $25.80. The Merger Consideration of $28.50
per share falls within the range of implied equity value per share which
Prudential Securities believes supports the Prudential Securities opinion. If
such multiples are applied to the Company's LTM Revenues, LTM EBITDA, LTM EBIT,
LTM net income, 1998 EPS and 1999 EPS, but not book value, the result is an
implied range of equity values per share of $16.36 to $43.95 with a median of
$25.69 and a mean of $27.71. Prudential Securities does not believe that book
value is an appropriate measure of the value of a going concern and believes
that applying such multiples to the Company's book value would not result in a
meaningful analysis.
The Fast Food Comparable Companies were found to have a range of
enterprise value as a multiple of LTM Revenues of 1.0x to 2.3x; a range of
enterprise value as a multiple of LTM EBITDA of 8.8x to 10.1x; a range of
enterprise value as a multiple of LTM EBIT of 12.6x to 16.0x; a range of equity
value as a multiple of LTM net income of 19.3x to 21.7x; a range of equity value
as a multiple of 1998 EPS of 18.1x to
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19.6x; a range of equity value as a multiple of 1999 EPS of 15.4x to 18.8x; and
a range of equity value as a multiple of book value of 2.6x to 6.3x. Applying
such multiples to the Company's LTM revenues, LTM EBITDA, LTM EBIT, LTM net
income, 1998 EPS, 1999 EPS and book value resulted in an implied range of equity
value per share of $23.34 to $73.60 with a mean of $38.68 and a median of
$36.85. The Merger Consideration of $28.50 per share falls within the range of
implied equity value per share which Prudential Securities believes supports the
Prudential Securities opinion. If such multiples are applied to the Company's
LTM Revenues, LTM EBITDA, LTM EBIT, LTM net income, 1998 EPS and 1999 EPS, but
not book value, the result is an implied range of equity values per share of
$23.34 to $49.83 with a median of $36.98 and a mean of $37.20. Prudential
Securities does not believe that book value is an appropriate measure of the
value of a going concern and believes that applying such multiples to the
Company's book value would not result in a meaningful analysis.
COMPARABLE TRANSACTIONS ANALYSIS. Prudential Securities also analyzed
the consideration paid in several recent merger and acquisition transactions
which Prudential Securities deemed to be reasonably similar to the Merger, and
considered the multiple of the acquired entity's enterprise value to its LTM
revenues, LTM EBITDA and LTM EBIT, and the multiple of the acquired entity's
equity value to its LTM net income and book value at October 4, 1998 based upon
publicly available information for such transactions. The transactions
considered were the combinations of: (i) Spaghetti Warehouse and Consolidated
Restaurant Cos, (ii) Au Bon Pain Co Inc. and Bruckman Rossner Sherrill & Co.,
(iii) Pollo Tropical and Carrols Corp., (iv) Bertucci's and NE Restaurant Co.,
(v) DavCo Restaurants and DavCo Acquisition Holding Inc., (vi) International
Dairy Queen and Berkshire Hathaway, (vii) Perkins Family Restaurants, L.P. and
The Restaurant Company, (viii) Krystal Company and Port Royal Holdings, Inc.,
and (ix) Family Restaurants and Flagstar Companies, Inc. (collectively, the
"COMPARABLE TRANSACTIONS"). The Comparable Transactions were found to imply for
each acquired entity a range of enterprise value as a multiple of LTM revenues
of 0.6x to 1.4x; a range of enterprise values as a multiple of LTM EBITDA of
6.8x to 8.4x; a range of enterprise value as a multiple of LTM EBIT of 9.0x to
16.4x; a range of equity value as a multiple of LTM net income of 0.5x to 28.0x;
and a range of equity value as a multiple of book value of 0.9x to 6.1x.
Applying such multiples to the Company's LTM revenues, LTM EBITDA, LTM EBIT, LTM
net income and book value resulted in an implied range for the equity value per
share of $11.01 to $71.48 with a mean of $33.82 and a median of $31.63. The
Merger Consideration of $28.50 per share falls within the range of implied
equity value per share which Prudential Securities believes supports the
Prudential Securities opinion. If such multiples are applied to the Company's
LTM Revenues, LTM EBITDA, LTM EBIT, LTM net income, but not book value, the
result is an implied range of equity values per share of $15.61 to $51.49 with a
median of $31.64 and a mean of $32.69. Prudential Securities does not believe
that book value is an appropriate measure of the value of a going concern and
believes that applying such multiples to the Company's book value would not
result in a meaningful analysis.
None of the Comparable Companies or acquired entities used in the above
analyses for comparative purposes is, of course, identical to the Company.
Accordingly, a complete analysis of the results of the foregoing calculations
cannot be limited to a quantitative review of such results and involves complex
considerations and judgments concerning differences in financial and operating
characteristics of each of the Comparable Companies or the acquired entities and
other factors that could affect the public trading value of the Comparable
Companies or the consideration paid for each of the acquired entities as well as
the proposed Merger Consideration for the Company.
The Special Committee engaged Prudential Securities to be its exclusive
financial advisor in connection with the Revised Proposal and to provide a
fairness opinion because Prudential Securities is a nationally recognized
investment banking firm engaged in the valuation of businesses and their
securities in connection with merger and acquisition transactions, because of
its familiarity with the Company, because it has substantial experience in
transactions similar to the proposed Merger. Pursuant to an engagement letter
dated November 30, 1998 among the Company, the Special Committee and Prudential
Securities, the Company paid Prudential Securities a retainer of $500,000 on
November 30, 1998 and an additional
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$250,000 upon the delivery of the fairness opinion of Prudential Securities. An
additional fee of $225,000 will be payable upon the consummation of the Merger.
Pursuant to an engagement letter dated January 20, 1998, in connection with the
Initial Proposal, the Company paid Prudential Securities a retainer of $250,000
upon such initial retention. In addition, the November 30, 1998 engagement
letter with Prudential Securities provides that the Company will reimburse
Prudential Securities for its out-of-pocket expenses and will indemnify
Prudential Securities and certain related persons against certain liabilities,
including liabilities under securities laws, arising out of the Merger or its
engagement. In the ordinary course of business, Prudential Securities may
actively trade shares of the Common Stock for its own account and for the
accounts of customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or short
position in such securities.
-39-
<PAGE>
CERTAIN FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS
The Company does not as a matter of course make public forecasts or
projections as to future performance (including as to revenues, earnings, other
income statement items and cash flows) or financial position. However, in August
1998, the Company's management prepared the long-term Business Sale Projections
in connection with the engagement of Bear Stearns to solicit interest in the
acquisition of the Company by third parties. See "-- Background of the
Transaction." In October 1998, the Company's management prepared the Updated
Operating Plan to reflect then present and expected future business trends and
conditions. The Business Sale Projections set forth below are the same as
included in a confidential information memorandum provided to potential
purchasers of the Company who indicated an interest in acquiring the Company and
entered into confidentiality agreements (see "--Background of the Transaction").
The Operating Projections, which appear following the Business Sale Projections,
are based on more detailed financial information. The Projections are included
in this Proxy Statement solely because they were provided to Prudential
Securities.
There are significant differences between the Business Sale Projections
and the Operating Projections. The primary differences in the assumptions
between the Business Sale Projections and the Operating Projections are that the
Business Sale Projections reflected (i) higher comparable restaurant unit annual
sales increases, (ii) increased openings of Sbarro restaurant units, (iii)
higher operating margins, and (iv) a more rapid expansion of the Company's
Umberto's of New Hyde Park joint venture. The Business Sale Projections assumed
an aggressive expansion strategy and were designed to solicit interest from
potential purchasers by presenting the possibility for significant growth in
both revenues and EBITDA that might be available to a potential buyer of the
Company with a different approach to operating the Company and a different
management team. The Operating Projections reflect management's then current
view of the Company's future prospects in light of present and expected future
business trends.
The Projections were based upon numerous estimates and assumptions that
are inherently subject to significant uncertainties, are difficult to predict
and, in many cases, are influenced by factors beyond the Company's control. The
material assumptions used in preparing the Projections are described in the
respective Projections and footnotes to the Projections. Certain assumptions on
which both the Business Sale Projections and the Operating Projections were
based related to the achievement of strategic goals, objectives and targets over
the applicable periods that were more favorable than recent historical results.
Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the projected results will be
realized or that actual results will not be significantly higher or lower than
those predicted. See "SUMMARY--Forward-Looking Information."
The Company's 1998 fiscal year consisted of 53 weeks. All projected
years consist of 52 weeks. The projected financial results for the 1998 fiscal
year in the Projections were based on the first 52-weeks of that fiscal year in
order to provide comparability to the historical and projected periods. At the
time the Projections were prepared, the Company's management estimated that
approximately $8.0 million of revenue and $3.0 million of EBITDA would be
generated during the 53rd week of fiscal 1998. Actual 1998 revenues and EBITDA
for the 53rd week totaled $8.5 million and $1.7 million, respectively.
-40-
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
BUSINESS SALE PROJECTIONS (1)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS) FISCAL YEAR
--------------------------------------------------------------------
2002 2001 2000 1999 1998
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total Systemwide Sales (2) $947.3 $795.6 $668.5 $568.7 $501.0
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Revenues (3) $600.0 $525.5 $460.4 $405.7 $365.8
REVENUE GROWTH % 14.2% 14.1% 13.5% 10.9% 6.0%
EBITDA $138.6 $121.7 $106.9 $94.4 $85.2
EBITDA MARGIN % 23.1% 23.2% 23.2% 23.3% 23.3%
Depreciation and Amortization (4) $33.7 $32.4 $30.4 $28.3 $27.1
------- ----- ----- ----- -----
Operating Profit $104.9 $89.3 $76.6 $66.1 $58.2
====== ===== ===== ===== =====
OPERATING MARGIN % 17.5% 17.0% 16.6% 16.3% 15.9%
Capital Expenditures $38.4 $35.6 $32.7 $28.4 $29.1
ASSUMED STORE DATA (5):
Company-Owned
Beginning Units 849 779 714 659 625
Unit Openings (net) 75 70 65 55 34
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Ending Units 924 849 779 714 659
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Franchised
Beginning Units 489 404 329 274 239
Unit Openings (net) 95 85 75 55 35
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Ending Units 584 489 404 329 274
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Total
Beginning Units 1,338 1,183 1,043 933 864
Unit Openings (net) 170 155 140 110 69
------ ------ ------ ------ -------
Ending Units 1,508 1,338 1,183 1,043 933
===== ===== ===== ===== ======
ASSUMED COMPARABLE UNIT
REVENUES INCREASES
Company core units 1.5% 1.5% 1.5% 1.5% .5%
Umberto's of New Hyde Park 2.0% 2.0% 2.0% 2.0% 2.0%
Units
- --------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Includes 100% of the projected financial results of Umberto's of New
Hyde Park (an 80% owned restaurant joint venture).
(2) Represents combined projected sales of Company-owned and franchised
locations.
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<PAGE>
(3) Revenues are based on the assumed unit data and assumed comparable unit
revenues increases set forth in the table.
(4) Based upon the Company's then depreciable asset base and future
projected capital expenditure requirements.
(5) Includes both Umberto's of New Hyde Park shopping mall and strip center
units, in addition to the Company's core operation units. Actual unit
openings for 1998 were 26 Company-owned and 43 franchised units, with
net openings, after giving effect to unit closings during the year, of
7 Company-owned and 29 franchised units.
-42-
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPERATING PROJECTIONS (1)
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS) FISCAL YEAR
-----------------------------------------------------------------
2002 2001 2000 1999 1998
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total Systemwide Sales (2) $631.4 $595.7 $560.3 $525.2 $496.1
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Revenues (3) $418.3 $402.9 $387.6 $372.4 $362.9
REVENUE GROWTH % 3.8% 3.9% 4.1% 2.6% 5.3%
EBITDA $93.6 $89.9 $86.3 $82.7 $80.3
EBITDA MARGIN % 22.4% 22.3% 22.3% 22.2% 22.1%
Depreciation and Amortization (4) $25.1 $24.9 $24.5 $24.0 $23.5
----- ----- ----- ----- -----
Operating Profit $68.4 $65.0 $61.7 $58.7 $56.8
===== ===== ===== ===== =====
OPERATING MARGIN % 16.4% 16.1% 15.9% 15.8% 15.7%
Capital Expenditures $13.4 $13.4 $13.4 $13.4 $10.7
ASSUMED STORE DATA (5):
Company-Owned
Beginning Units 699 677 655 633 623
Unit Openings (net) 22 22 22 22 10
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Ending Units 721 699 677 655 633
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Franchised
Beginning Units 371 336 301 266 239
Unit Openings (net) 35 35 35 35 27
------- ------- ------- ------- ----
Ending Units 406 371 336 301 266
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Total
Beginning Units 1,070 1,013 956 899 862
Unit Openings (net) 57 57 57 57 37
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Ending Units 1,127 1,070 1,013 956 899
===== ===== ===== ====== ======
ASSUMED COMPARABLE UNIT
REVENUES INCREASES
Company core units .5% .5% .5% .5% .5%
Umberto's of New Hyde Park Units 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
- --------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Included 100% of the financial results of Umberto's of New Hyde Park
(an 80% owned restaurant joint venture).
(2) Represents combined projected sales of Company-owned and franchised
locations.
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<PAGE>
(3) Revenues are based on the assumed unit data and assumed comparable unit
revenues increases set forth in the table.
(4) Based upon the Company's then depreciable asset base and future
projected capital expenditure requirements.
(5) Includes both Umberto's of New Hyde Park shopping mall and strip center
units, in addition to the Company's core operation units. Actual unit
openings for 1998 were 26 Company-owned and 43 franchised units, with
net openings, after giving effect to unit closings during the year, of
7 Company-owned and 29 franchised units;
While the Projections were prepared in good faith by the Company's
management, no assurance can be made regarding future events. Therefore, neither
the Business Sale Projections nor the Operating Projections can be considered a
reliable prediction of future operating results and should not be relied on as
such. Additionally, the Projections were prepared at the times indicated above
and do not reflect any subsequent results or any changes that have occurred or
may occur in the future regarding the business, assets, operations, properties,
management, capitalization, corporate structure or policies of the Company,
general economic or business conditions, or any other transaction or event that
has occurred since the respective dates of preparation, or that may occur, and
were not anticipated at the time such information was prepared. The Projections
were not prepared to comply with the published guidelines of either the SEC
regarding projections or forecasts or the American Institute of Certified Public
Accountants' Guide for Prospective Financial Statements, nor in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles. The Company's independent auditors
have not examined, compiled or performed any procedures regarding the
Projections, nor have they expressed any opinion or given any assurance on such
information or its achievability and, accordingly, they assume no responsibility
for the Projections. None of the Company, Mergeco nor the Continuing
Shareholders intends to update or supplement the Projections prior to the
Meeting. Shareholders are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the
Projections.
PLANS FOR THE COMPANY AFTER THE MERGER
None of the Continuing Shareholders, Mergeco or the Company currently
have any plans or proposals that relate to or would result in an extraordinary
corporate transaction, such as a merger, reorganization or liquidation involving
the Company or any of its subsidiaries, a sale or transfer of a material amount
of assets of the Company or any of its subsidiaries or, except as indicated
elsewhere in this Proxy Statement, any material change in the Company's
capitalization, corporate structure or business or the composition of the Board
or executive officers following the consummation of the Merger. However, the
Continuing Shareholders intend, from time to time, to evaluate and review the
Company's businesses, operations, properties, management and other personnel,
corporate structure and capitalization, and to make such changes as are deemed
appropriate. The Continuing Shareholders also intend to continue to explore
joint ventures and other opportunities to expand the Company's business. In that
regard, the Continuing Shareholders, after the Merger, may review proposals or
may propose the acquisition or disposition of assets or other changes in the
Company's business, corporate structure, capitalization, management or dividend
policy which they consider to be in the best interests of the Company and its
then shareholders. The Company and the Continuing Shareholders anticipate that
the indebtedness to be incurred in connection with the Merger will be repaid
primarily with cash generated from the operations of the business of the Company
or a subsequent refinancing. However, subject to the terms of the Debt Financing
and market and other conditions, the Company may, in the future, consider such
other means of repaying such indebtedness as the Company and the Continuing
Shareholders may determine in their sole and absolute discretion.
If the Merger is consummated, the Continuing Shareholders currently
intend to cause the Company to elect to be taxed under the provisions of
Subchapter S of the Code commencing with the fiscal year 2000. The Term Sheet
for the Debt Financing contemplates that distributions will be made to the then
shareholders
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<PAGE>
of the Company in order to enable them to pay income taxes to be borne by them
as a result of that election. In addition, the Term Sheet contemplates that the
Company will be permitted to pay dividends in an amount equal to $5.0 million
plus 50% of the Company's future cumulative adjusted consolidated net income.
See "-- Financing of the Merger" and "SUMMARY -- Market Prices of and Dividends
on the Common Stock."
CONDUCT OF THE BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY IF THE MERGER IS NOT CONSUMMATED
The Board has made no determination as to the direction of the Company
should the Merger not be consummated. The Board currently expects that the
Company's present management will continue to operate the Company's business
substantially as presently operated. However, even if the Merger is not
consummated, management and the Board intend, from time to time, to evaluate and
review the Company's businesses, operations, properties, management and other
personnel, corporate structure and capitalization, and make such changes as are
deemed appropriate and to continue to explore joint ventures and other
opportunities to expand the Company's business.
INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER AND THE COMPANY
In considering the recommendation of the Special Committee and of the
Board, you should be aware that the Continuing Shareholders and certain
executive officers and directors of the Company have certain relationships or
interests in the Merger and the Company, including those referred to below, that
are different from the interests of Public Shareholders and that may present
actual or potential conflicts of interest. The Special Committee and the Board
were aware of these potential and actual conflicts of interest and considered
them in evaluating the proposed Merger.
MERGER CONSIDERATION AND STOCK OPTIONS. As of the Record Date, the
Continuing Shareholders owned an aggregate of 7,064,328 shares of Common Stock,
representing approximately 34.4% of the total outstanding shares of Common Stock
on that date. The Continuing Shareholders currently contemplate that,
immediately prior to the Merger, each of them will purchase membership interests
in Mergeco in proportion to their share ownership in the Company. In the Merger,
those membership interests would be converted into new shares of the Company's
Common Stock and the old shares of Common Stock then owned of record by the
Continuing Shareholders will be canceled for no consideration. Following the
Merger, the Continuing Shareholders will own all of the outstanding Common Stock
of the Surviving Corporation.
As of the Record Date, directors and executive officers of the Company
and members of their immediate families, other than the Continuing Shareholders,
owned an aggregate of 31,568 shares of Common Stock for each of which shares,
they, as Public Shareholders, will be entitled to receive the Merger
Consideration of $28.85 per share in cash. See "CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS IN THE
COMMON STOCK" for information regarding the intention of certain executive
officers to sell their Common Stock prior to the consummation of the Merger.
In the Merger, all outstanding Stock Options, including those held by
the Continuing Shareholders and the other directors and executive officers of
the Company are to be terminated and the Company will pay to each Stock Option
holder, whether or not such Stock Options are then vested or exercisable, an
amount in cash equal to the excess, if any, of the Merger Consideration over the
applicable exercise price per share of the Common Stock subject to the Stock
Option, multiplied by the number of shares of Common Stock subject to such Stock
Option. See "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Treatment of Options" and "SECURITIES
OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT."
-45-
<PAGE>
The following table sets forth the Merger Consideration and
consideration to be received for the termination of Stock Options held by the
following groups, in addition to the percentage of Stock Options held by each
group:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Merger Cash to be Cash to be Percentage of
Consideration (to received for received for total Common
be received for currently Stock Options Stock subject
outstanding exercisable not yet to Stock
Common Stock) Stock Options exercisable Options (1)
------------ ------------- ----------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Continuing Shareholders $ 0 $3,535,969 $1,155,002 5.29%
Other directors, including members of
the Special Committee and
members of their immediate
families 259,650 446,308 89,766 .67%
Members of the immediate families
of the Continuing Shareholders,
including certain executive officers
of the Company 593,445 570,229 628,283 1.39%
Other executive officers of the 425,768 156,475 196,388 .61%
Company
</TABLE>
- ------------------
(1) Based on the total number of shares of Common Stock subject to all
outstanding Stock Options as of the date of this Proxy Statement.
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS OF THE SURVIVING CORPORATION. Under the terms of
the Merger Agreement, upon consummation of the Merger, the current executive
officers and directors of the Company will remain as the initial executive
officers and directors of the Surviving Corporation (except that Robert S.
Koebele, Vice President - Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Company,
has advised the Company that he intends to retire in the early part of the
summer of 1999 whether or not the Merger is consummated, and Paul A. Vatter, a
director, has advised the Company of his intention to retire upon consummation
of the Merger or, if the Merger Agreement is not adopted at the Meeting, upon
the expiration of his current term at the next annual meeting of shareholders).
The Continuing Shareholders, as owners of 100% of the capital stock of the
Surviving Corporation, will have the ability to take action to terminate any
officers and directors of the Surviving Corporation whom they choose.
COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS. Non-employee directors currently receive a
retainer at the rate of $16,000 per annum, $1,000 for each meeting of the Board
attended and $500 for each meeting attended of a Committee of the Board on which
they serve, if such meeting is not held on the same day as a meeting of the
Board, except that members of the Special Committee received additional
compensation for service on that committee as described below. Members of the
Board also are reimbursed for reasonable travel expenses incurred in attending
Board and Committee meetings. The regular compensation of employee directors of
the Company covers compensation for services as a director.
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<PAGE>
The non-employee directors earned the following cash compensation
(exclusive of travel reimbursements) from the Company for services as members of
the Board (other than for service on the Special Committee) during fiscal 1998:
Harold L. Kestenbaum................................... $22,000
Richard A. Mandell..................................... 22,000
Paul A. Vatter......................................... 22,000
Terry Vince............................................ 21,000
Bernard Zimmerman...................................... 22,000
The Company's 1993 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan, as amended,
which was approved by shareholders at the Company's 1993 Annual Meeting of
Shareholders, provides for the automatic grant of an option to purchase 3,750
shares of Common Stock to each non-employee director in office immediately after
each annual meeting of shareholders. Each option has a ten year term, is subject
to early termination in certain instances, and is exercisable commencing one
year following the date of grant at an exercise price equal to 100% of the fair
market value of the Common Stock on the date of grant. As of the date of this
Proxy Statement, each non-employee director of the Company, including each
member of the Special Committee, holds Stock Options under this plan to purchase
an aggregate of 22,500 shares of Common Stock at exercise prices ranging from
$21.50 to $28.875 per share. This plan will be terminated upon consummation of
the Merger. In consideration of such termination, the Company will pay each
non-employee director, in cash and as full settlement for his Stock Options,
whether or not then exercisable, an amount determined by multiplying (i) the
excess, if any, of the Merger Consideration over the applicable exercise price
per share of Common Stock subject to such Stock Options by (ii) the total number
of shares of Common Stock subject to such Stock Options.
COMPENSATION OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS. As compensation for serving
on the Special Committee (and on the special committee which considered the
Initial Proposal), the Company agreed to pay to each member of the Special
Committee a fee equal to (i) $2,500 for services rendered in any day on which
the member expended four hours or more in performing services as a member of the
Special Committee and (ii) $1,250 for each day in which such member expended a
reasonable amount of time, but less than four hours, in performing services as a
member of the Special Committee. In addition to the foregoing fees, Mr. Mandell,
as Chairman of the Special Committee, received $10,000 with respect to the
Special Committee's consideration of the Initial Proposal and is entitled to
receive $10,000 with respect to the Special Committee's consideration of the
Revised Proposal. Each member of the Special Committee is being reimbursed for
all out-of-pocket expenses incurred in performing his services.
Through April 15, 1999, the members of the Special Committee have
earned the following cash compensation (exclusive of travel reimbursements) from
the Company in connection with the Initial Proposal and the Revised Proposal:
Richard A. Mandell.......................................... $47,250
Harold L. Kestenbaum........................................ 14,750
Paul A. Vatter.............................................. 9,750
Terry Vince................................................. 9,750
INDEMNIFICATION ARRANGEMENTS. For a discussion of certain requirements
in the Merger Agreement for the indemnification of directors and officers of the
Company and the maintenance of directors' and officers' insurance, see "THE
MERGER AGREEMENT -- Indemnification and Insurance."
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<PAGE>
CONSULTING ARRANGEMENT. Since 1986, a company of which Bernard
Zimmerman, a director of the Company, is President and a majority shareholder,
has rendered financial and consulting services to the Company. This company
earned fees of $116,400 and $140,400 during fiscal 1997 and 1998, respectively.
CERTAIN OTHER TRANSACTIONS. The Company is the sole tenant of its
administrative office building, which is leased from the Suffolk County
Industrial Development Agency (the "AGENCY") by Sbarro Enterprises, L.P., a
Delaware limited partnership, and, in turn, subleased to the Company. The annual
rent payable pursuant to the sublease is $337,000 for the last five years of the
sublease term, which expires in 2001. In addition, the Company is obligated to
pay real estate taxes, utilities, insurance and certain other expenses for the
facility. The Company believes that such rents are comparable to the rents that
would be charged by an unaffiliated third party. Principal and interest (the
last of which payments is due in December 1999) and any premium on the bonds
issued by the Agency to fund construction of the facility are the responsibility
of Sbarro Enterprises, L.P. and are severally guaranteed by Mario, Joseph and
Anthony Sbarro. The limited partners of Sbarro Enterprises, L.P. are Mario,
Joseph, Anthony and Carmela Sbarro.
In addition to the compensation of Mario, Anthony, Joseph, Gennaro A.
and Gennaro J. Sbarro and Anthony J. Missano, as reflected in the Company's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 3, 1999 (see "WHERE YOU
CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION"), (i) Carmela Sbarro, the mother of Mario, Anthony
and Joseph Sbarro, who was a co-founder of the Company and serves as Vice
President and a director of the Company, and (ii) Carmela N. Merendino, a
daughter of Mario Sbarro, who serves as Vice President - Administration of the
Company, each received $100,000 from the Company for services rendered during
fiscal 1997 and received $101,923 and $126,442, respectively, for services
rendered during fiscal 1998. In addition, other members of the immediate
families of Mario, Anthony, Joseph and Carmela Sbarro earned an aggregate of
$467,823 (nine persons) and $523,423 (eleven persons) for services rendered as
employees of the Company during fiscal 1997 and 1998, respectively.
The Company, its subsidiaries and the joint ventures in which the
Company has an interest have purchased printing services from a corporation
owned by a son-in-law of Mario Sbarro for which they paid, in the aggregate,
approximately $220,000 and $322,768 during fiscal 1997 and 1998, respectively.
The Company believes that these services were provided on terms comparable to
those that would have been available from unrelated third parties.
Companies owned by a son of Anthony Sbarro and a company owned by the
daughter of Joseph Sbarro paid royalties to the Company under franchise
agreements containing terms similar to those in agreements entered into by the
Company with unrelated franchisees. Such royalties paid to the Company
aggregated approximately $71,660 and $33,053, respectively, during fiscal 1997
and approximately $95,151 and $10,406, respectively, during fiscal 1998.
CERTAIN EFFECTS OF THE MERGER
If the Merger is consummated, the entire equity in the Company will be
owned by the Continuing Shareholders. The Public Shareholders will no longer
have any ownership interest in, and will not be shareholders of, the Company. As
a result, the Public Shareholders will no longer benefit from any increases in
the value of the Company, nor will they bear the risk of any decreases in the
value of the Company. Instead, upon consummation of the Merger, each Public
Shareholder will have the right to receive $28.85 in cash for each share of
Common Stock held. Following the Merger, the Continuing Shareholders will
benefit from any increases in the value of the Company and also bear the risk of
any decreases in the value of the Company. As the sole equity owners of the
Company after the Merger, the investment in the Company of the Continuing
Shareholders also will bear the risks associated with the significant amount of
debt to be incurred by the Company in connection with the Merger. See " --
Financing of the Merger."
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<PAGE>
Because the Common Stock will be closely held and cease to be publicly
traded, the Continuing Shareholders believe that they will be able to focus on
increasing the long-term value of the Company to a greater degree by reducing
management's commitment of resources with respect to procedural and compliance
requirements of a company with publicly owned common stock. However, the
Continuing Shareholders will bear the risks associated with the lack of
liquidity of their continuing investment in the Company.
Following the Merger, the Public Shareholders will have no continuing
interest in the Company. As a result, the Common Shares will no longer meet the
requirements of the NYSE for continued listing and will be delisted from the
NYSE. The Common Stock currently constitutes "margin securities" under the
regulations of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the
"FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD"), which has the effect, among other things, of allowing
brokers to extend credit on the collateral of the Common Stock. As a result of
the Merger, the Common Stock will no longer constitute "margin securities" for
purposes of the margin regulations of the Federal Reserve Board and, therefore,
will no longer constitute eligible collateral for credit extended by brokers.
The Common Stock is currently registered as a class of securities under
the Exchange Act. Registration of the Common Stock under the Exchange Act may be
terminated upon application of the Company to the SEC if the Common Stock is not
listed on a national securities exchange or quoted on NASDAQ and there are fewer
than 300 record holders of the outstanding shares. Termination of registration
of the Common Stock under the Exchange Act would substantially reduce the
information required to be furnished by the Company to its shareholders and to
the SEC and would make certain provisions of the Exchange Act, such as the
short-swing trading provisions of Section 16(b), the requirement of furnishing a
proxy statement in connection with shareholders' meetings pursuant to Section
14(a) and the requirements of Rule 13e-3 under the Exchange Act with respect to
"going private" transactions no longer applicable to the Company. In addition,
"affiliates" of the Company and persons holding "restricted securities" of the
Company may be deprived of the ability to dispose of those securities pursuant
to Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. It is the
present intention of the Company to make an application for the termination of
the registration of the Common Stock under the Exchange Act as soon as
practicable after the Effective Time.
CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES
The following is a general summary of the material United States
federal income tax consequences of the Merger to the Public Shareholders under
provisions of the Code, and existing regulations and administrative and judicial
interpretations thereunder in effect as of the date hereof, all of which are
subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. The discussion applies only
to shareholders who hold shares of Common Stock as capital assets within the
meaning of Section 1221 of the Code. In addition, the discussion does not apply
to any shareholder who is attributed any shares of a Continuing Shareholder
under Section 318 of the Code (to whom the entire Merger Consideration may be
treated as a dividend taxable at ordinary income tax rates), any shareholder who
is not a U.S. person within the meaning of Section 7701(a)(30) of the Code, any
shareholder who acquired shares in a compensatory transaction, including upon
the exercise of an option, any shareholder who holds shares as part of a hedging
or conversion transaction, straddle or other risk reduction transaction, and any
other category of shareholder who is subject to special tax rules, such as
financial institutions, insurance companies, broker-dealers and tax-exempt
entities. In addition, the following discussion does not consider the effect of
any state, local, foreign or other tax laws.
BECAUSE INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES MAY DIFFER, YOU ARE ADVISED TO CONSULT
WITH YOUR OWN TAX ADVISOR AS TO THE FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND FOREIGN INCOME AND
OTHER TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER TO YOU.
If the Merger is consummated, each Public Shareholder will be treated
as having sold shares for the Merger Consideration. As a result, a Public
Shareholder will recognize capital gain or loss in an amount
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<PAGE>
equal to the difference between the Merger Consideration and the Public
Shareholder's adjusted tax basis in such Public Shares. Such capital gain or
loss will be a long-term capital gain or loss if the Public Shareholder has held
the Public Shares for more than one year on the Effective Date of the Merger
even though the Merger Consideration is not paid to the Public Shareholder on
the Effective Date. There are certain limitations on the deductibility of
capital losses. Gain or loss must be determined separately for each block of
Common Stock (i.e., shares acquired at the same cost in a single transaction).
To prevent backup withholding equal to 31% of the Merger Consideration
payable to a Public Shareholder, the Public Shareholder must either (i)
establish an exemption from backup withholding (e.g. because it is a
corporation) or (ii) provide its taxpayer identification number to the Paying
Agent, certify that the Public Shareholder is not subject to backup withholding
and otherwise comply with the backup withholding rules under the Code. Backup
withholding is not an additional tax; rather, any amount so withheld is
creditable against the shareholder's federal income tax liability. See "THE
MERGER AGREEMENT -- Tax Withholding."
Certain penalties may apply to a failure to furnish correct
information. Public Shareholders should consult with their own tax advisors as
to the qualifications for an exemption from withholding and the procedures for
obtaining an exemption.
Neither the Company, Mergeco nor any of the Continuing Shareholders
will recognize gain or loss as a result of the Merger.
FEES AND EXPENSES
Estimated fees and expenses (rounded to the nearest thousand dollars)
incurred or to be incurred by the Company, Mergeco and the Continuing
Shareholders in connection with the Merger (including the Initial Proposal and
the Revised Proposal) are approximately as follows:
Investment banking fees and expenses - Prudential Securities $1,280,000
Investment banking fees and expenses - Bear Stearns......... 1,700,000
Debt financing discounts and commissions.................... 9,000,000(1)
Legal fees and expenses.....................................
Accounting fees.............................................
SEC filing fee.............................................. 79,000
Printing and mailing expenses...............................
Proxy Solicitation Agent fees and expenses..................
Paying Agent fees...........................................
Special Committee fees and expenses......................... 75,000
Litigation settlement fees and expenses..................... 2,125,000
Miscellaneous............................................... _________
Total.............................................. $
--------------------
(1) Assumes that the entire contemplated $300 million of Debt
Financing will be through the placement of senior notes. See
"-- Financing of the Merger."
The above fees and expenses include approximately $___________, which
represent fees and expenses incurred by or on behalf of Mergeco and/or the
Continuing Shareholders in connection with the Merger that will, in effect, be
borne by the Company if the Merger is consummated since, by operation of
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law, in a merger, the Surviving Corporation assumes and becomes liable for the
obligations of the entity merging into it.
The Merger Agreement provides that, except in certain circumstances, in
the event of termination of the Merger Agreement without consummation of the
Merger, the Company, on the one hand, and Mergeco and the Continuing
Shareholders, on the other hand, will pay their own expenses. The fees and
expenses to be borne by the Company will include those of financial advisors
(including Bear Stearns and Prudential Securities), accountants and counsel for
the Company and the Special Committee, and fees and expenses for the
preparation, printing, mailing and filing of documents used in connection with
the Merger and the Debt Financing. The fees and expenses of Mergeco will include
any commitment and other fees or expenses of any person providing or proposing
to provide the Debt Financing and fees and expenses of counsel for Mergeco.
If termination of the Merger Agreement is not due to the failure to
obtain the Debt Financing (or is due to a failure to obtain the Debt Financing
as a result of a material adverse change in the securities, financial or
borrowing markets) or a breach by Mergeco or the Continuing Shareholders of
their representations, warranties or covenants in the Merger Agreement, then the
Company is to reimburse Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders for the fees and
expenses incurred by them in connection with the Merger, with the maximum
reimbursement by the Company being $500,000. If, however, termination of the
Merger Agreement is due to failure to obtain the Debt Financing (unless
resulting from a material adverse change in the securities, financial or
borrowing markets), then Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders will, jointly
and severally, be obligated to reimburse the Company for 50% of the fees and
expenses incurred by the Company in connection with the Merger, with the maximum
reimbursement by Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders being $500,000 in the
aggregate. See "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Fees and Expenses."
For information regarding payment of fees and expenses to the Special
Committee, see "-- Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger and the Company."
For information regarding Prudential Securities' engagement by the Special
Committee and the payment of fees and expense in connection with that
engagement, see "-- Presentation and Fairness Opinion of Prudential Securities."
For information regarding Bear Stearns' engagement by the Company and the
payment of fees and expenses in connection with that engagement, see "--
Financing of the Merger."
Neither Mergeco nor the Company will pay any fees or commissions to any
broker or dealer or any other person (other than the Proxy Solicitation Agent)
for soliciting Proxies pursuant to the Merger. Brokers, banks, and other
custodians, nominees and fiduciaries will, upon request, be reimbursed by the
Company for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by them in forwarding
proxy soliciting materials to the beneficial owners of shares.
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT
For accounting and financial reporting purposes, the Merger will be
accounted for in accordance with the "purchase method" of accounting.
FINANCING OF THE MERGER
Approximately $438 million will be required to pay the aggregate Merger
Consideration to the Public Shareholders and to pay holders of Stock Options
following consummation of the Merger, as well as estimated fees and expenses of
the contemplated transactions and to provide sufficient liquidity to fund the
Company's ongoing working capital needs, including capital expenditures. It is
anticipated that the sources of the required funds will be $138 million of the
Company's cash and marketable securities and $300 million to be obtained by the
Company through the Debt Financing. Although different sources and types of
financing may be obtained, the Debt Financing presently contemplates the
placement of Senior Notes (the "SENIOR
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NOTES") and will include either a bank revolving credit facility, which will
have undrawn availability on the closing date of the Merger of up to $30
million, or excess cash from the senior note placement, to provide sufficient
liquidity to fund the Company's ongoing working capital needs, including capital
expenditures. To date, no commitment has been obtained for a revolving credit
facility.
Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders have received the Debt
Financing Letter, dated January 19, 1999, from Bear Stearns which states that,
as of the date of the Debt Financing Letter, based upon and subject to (i) the
prior paragraph, (ii) the information supplied to Bear Stearns by the Continuing
Shareholders and the Company and (iii) current market conditions, Bear Stearns
was "highly confident" of its ability to place or arrange the Debt Financing,
subject to the negotiation of definitive language with respect to the terms and
conditions set forth in the term sheet annexed to the Merger Agreement as
Exhibit "B" (the "TERM SHEET"). The Debt Financing Letter appears as Exhibit "A"
to the Merger Agreement, which is annexed to this Proxy Statement as Annex I.
The discussion contained herein of the Debt Financing Letter is qualified in its
entirety by reference to the Debt Financing Letter.
It is a condition to the obligation of Mergeco to consummate the Merger
that the Company has obtained the Debt Financing (i) in the amount of at least
$300 million, (ii) on material terms and conditions no less favorable to the
Surviving Corporation than those set forth in the Term Sheet, and (iii) having a
yield to maturity not to exceed 11.25% per annum.
The Debt Financing Letter is subject to, among other things (i)
negotiation of definitive language with respect to the terms and conditions of
the Senior Notes and the negotiation of other acceptable terms and conditions of
the Debt Financing, including, but not limited to, interest rate, price and
other covenants, (ii) negotiation of acceptable terms, and the execution of
acceptable documentation, related to the Merger and the Debt Financing, (iii)
there having occurred no material adverse change in the business, prospects,
condition (financial or otherwise) or results of operations of the Company, (iv)
satisfactory completion of legal due diligence, (v) nothing coming to Bear
Stearns' attention that contradicts or calls into question (a) the information
previously provided to Bear Stearns by the Company or the Continuing
Shareholders or (b) the results of Bear Stearns' financial due diligence
investigation, (vi) no material adverse change in market conditions for new
issues of high-yield debt or syndicated bank loan facilities, (vii) there having
occurred no material adverse change in conditions of the financial and capital
markets generally, and (viii) the Continuing Shareholders' and the Company's
full cooperation with respect to the marketing of the Debt Financing. The
satisfaction of the foregoing conditions is to be determined in the sole
discretion of Bear Stearns' Commitment Committee. The Debt Financing Letter does
not constitute a commitment on the part of Bear Stearns to provide the Debt
Financing and does not ensure the successful completion of the Debt Financing.
If the Debt Financing is not consummated, the Merger will not be consummated,
even if the Public Shareholders adopt the Merger Agreement at the Meeting. See
"THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Conditions."
SENIOR NOTES. The Term Sheet sets forth certain of the material terms
and conditions that are presently contemplated to be contained in the indenture
under which the Senior Notes are to be issued. The Term Sheet appears as Exhibit
"B" to the Merger Agreement which is annexed to this Proxy Statement as Annex I.
This discussion of the Term Sheet is qualified in its entirety by reference to
the Term Sheet. The actual terms and conditions of the Senior Notes will depend
upon market conditions at the time the Senior Notes are placed and upon
negotiations with prospective purchasers of the Senior Notes.
The Term Sheet contemplates (although no negotiations with respect to
the Debt Financing has been had with any potential purchaser of Senior Notes)
that the Senior Notes will:
o be unsecured senior obligations of the Company;
o rank PARI PASSU with all existing and future senior
indebtedness of the Company;
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o be jointly and severally guaranteed on a senior unsecured
basis by all present and future subsidiaries of the Company
which the Company elects to have considered "restricted
subsidiaries" for purposes of determining compliance with the
various covenants to be contained in the indenture;
o have a maturity of 10 years from the date of issuance;
o bear interest at a rate to be determined at the time of
pricing of the Senior Notes; and
o not be callable by the Company for a period of five years
after issuance; PROVIDED, HOWEVEr, that (i) thereafter the
Senior Notes may be redeemed at the option of the Company at
premiums declining ratably to par at the end of the eighth
year after issuance, and (ii) until the third anniversary of
their issuance, the Company may redeem up to 35% of the
original principal amount of the Senior Notes with the net
cash proceeds of a public equity offering at a premium to be
determined, provided that following such redemption at least
65% of the original principal amount of the Senior Notes
remains outstanding.
In addition, the Term Sheet contemplates that:
o the Company will be required to offer to purchase all
outstanding Senior Notes at a price equal to 101% of the face
amount thereof upon any change in control of the Company;
o the Company will be permitted to make distributions to its
shareholders sufficient to pay their income taxes resulting
from the Company's election to be taxed as an S corporation
under the Code;
o except for those tax payments, the Company will be limited in
making "restricted payments," including, among other things,
(i) declaring or paying dividends, (ii) purchasing or
redeeming capital stock, and (iii) with certain exceptions,
making investments in entities that are not wholly-owned
restricted subsidiaries to, in general, an amount equal to
$5.0 million plus 50% of its cumulative adjusted consolidated
net income (after giving effect to the tax payments to be made
to its shareholders); and
o with certain exceptions, the Company and its restricted
subsidiaries will not be permitted to incur indebtedness if,
after giving pro forma effect to the proposed incurrence, the
consolidated interest coverage ratio of the Company and its
restricted subsidiaries for the four prior fiscal quarters is
not at least 2.0 to 1.0.
The Senior Notes will be governed by an indenture containing certain
covenants customary for a transaction of this nature that, among other things,
will limit the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries to create
restrictions on the ability of restricted subsidiaries to incur additional
indebtedness; pay dividends, repurchase capital stock or make other restricted
payments; make certain payments; create liens; enter into transactions with
affiliates; sell assets or enter into certain mergers and consolidations.
The indenture for the Senior Notes has not been finalized. Accordingly,
not all of the terms of the financing have been finalized, and the provisions
described herein may change materially as a result of the negotiation of
definitive agreements.
TERMS OF BEAR STEARNS' ENGAGEMENT. On February 12, 1997, the Company
engaged Bear Stearns as its exclusive financial advisor and agent in connection
with exploring various alternatives to enhance shareholder value, including
recapitalization and going private transactions. Bear Stearns' engagement by the
Company superseded an arrangement which it had entered into with certain of the
Continuing Shareholders in
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October 1996. As a result, those Continuing Shareholders were released from
their obligations under their engagement letter.
The February 12, 1997 engagement letter provides that Bear Stearns is
to receive a cash fee of $1.6 million from the Company in the event the Merger
is consummated. Either the Company or Bear Stearns may terminate the Bear
Stearns engagement letter at any time. If, however, either an agreement for
specified transactions described in the engagement letter (including
recapitalization and going private transactions) is entered into, or the Company
consummates such a transaction, within six months following termination of the
engagement letter, Bear Stearns remains entitled to its fee. If, with certain
exceptions, certain other transactions not specified in the engagement letter
that were proposed by Bear Stearns to the Company or its management as an option
are authorized by the Board and either an agreement for such a transaction is
entered into, or such a transaction is consummated, within six months after the
termination of the engagement letter, Bear Stearns' fee arrangement is to be
determined in good faith through negotiations with the Company. Bear Stearns was
not engaged to render, and has not rendered, any opinion as to the fairness of
any transaction presented to the Board, including the proposed Merger.
In addition, in the engagement letter, the Company granted Bear Stearns
the right to act as sole managing underwriter or exclusive agent in connection
with the raising of financing for specified transactions. If Bear Stearns
arranges, or itself provides, financing to consummate such a transaction on
terms approved by the Company, Bear Stearns is to receive a fee equal to 3% of
the gross proceeds raised through the issuance of any fixed rate debt financing
in a registered offering or private placement under the Securities Act, and 1%
of the amount of any bank or similar credit facility arranged (including any
committed facility which is arranged but partially or wholly undrawn). If Bear
Stearns elects not to act as sole managing underwriter or exclusive agent for
the financing and the Company completes one of the transactions specified in the
engagement letter with financing provided or arranged by a third party, Bear
Stearns will be entitled to 50% of the fee it would otherwise be entitled to
under the preceding paragraph if the specified transaction is completed on terms
substantially similar to the specified transaction as proposed by Bear Stearns
or, with certain exceptions, another transaction previously proposed by Bear
Stearns. Bear Stearns is also to be reimbursed for its out-of-pocket expenses
incurred up to $100,000 in the aggregate, but not for expenses related to its
acting as underwriter or placement agent for any financing for the Company. The
engagement letter provides that the Company will indemnify Bear Stearns and
certain related parties against certain liabilities which may arise out of its
engagement.
REGULATORY APPROVALS
The Company does not believe that any material federal or state
regulatory approvals, filings or notices are required by the Company in
connection with the Merger other than (i) filings required under the Exchange
Act, (ii) filings of certificates of merger with the New York Department of
State, (iii) filings to fulfill the delisting requirements of the NYSE, (iv)
filings under applicable alcohol and beverage laws and regulations, and (v)
filings in connection with any applicable transfer or other taxes in any
applicable jurisdiction. The Company believes that none of such filings would
present an obstacle to prompt completion of the Merger. The Company, the
Continuing Shareholders and Mergeco do not believe that they are required to
make a filing with the Department of Justice or the Federal Trade Commission
pursuant to the Hart-Scott- Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as
amended, although each agency has the authority to challenge the Merger on
antitrust grounds before or after the Merger is consummated.
The Company is in the process of obtaining consents or acknowledgments,
where required, under certain leases to which it is a party. The Company does
not believe there are any other material third party consents required by the
Company under the Merger Agreement.
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RISK OF INSOLVENCY
On a pro forma basis, assuming that the Merger and the Debt Financing
had been completed on October 4, 1998, the close of the Company's third fiscal
quarter of 1998, the Company would have had net worth of $83 million and a
negative tangible net worth (net worth exclusive of the excess of cost over book
value of assets acquired) of $167 million. If, as a result of the Merger, the
fair value of the Company's assets is less than its actual and contingent
liabilities, the Company has inadequate capital or the Company is unable to pay
its debts as they become due, the transfer of funds representing the Merger
Consideration payable to Public Shareholders upon consummation of the Merger may
be deemed to be a "fraudulent conveyance" under applicable law and, therefore,
may be subject to claims of creditors of the Company. If such a claim is
asserted by the creditors of the Company after the Merger, there is a risk that
Public Shareholders may be ordered by a court to turn over to the Company's
trustee in bankruptcy all or a portion of the Merger Consideration they
received.
Based upon the projected capitalization of the Company at the Effective
Time and projected results of operations and cash flow after the Merger,
management of the Company has no reason to believe at this time that the Company
will be insolvent immediately after giving effect to the Merger.
RISK THAT THE MERGER WILL NOT BE CONSUMMATED
Consummation of the Merger is subject to certain conditions, including
(i) shareholder adoption of the Merger Agreement, (ii) receipt by the Company of
financing for the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, and (iii)
final settlement of the Current Shareholder Litigation. See "THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Conditions." Although Bear Stearns has provided a letter to the
Continuing Shareholders and Mergeco to the effect that, based upon and subject
to the conditions set forth therein, including current market conditions, it is
"highly confident" in its ability to place or arrange the Debt Financing on
terms at least as favorable to the Company as those set forth on the Term Sheet,
the Merger Agreement provides that Mergeco is not obligated to consummate the
Merger if, among other things, the Debt Financing would have a yield to maturity
in excess of 11.25% per annum or if a material adverse change (or event or
occurrence that is reasonably likely to result in an adverse change) in
securities, financial or borrowing markets occurs. Bear Stearns' "highly
confident" letter does not pertain to interest rates. Therefore, even if the
requisite approval by shareholders is obtained, there can be no assurance that
the Merger will be consummated. See " -- Conduct of the Business of the Company
if the Merger is not Consummated."
See " -- Conduct of the Business of the Company if the Merger is not
Consummated," and "THE MERGER AGREEMENT -- Fees and Expenses" with respect to
obligations of the Company, on the one hand, and Mergeco and the Continuing
Shareholders, on the other hand, to reimburse each other for fees and expenses
in certain instances if the Merger Agreement is terminated.
LITIGATION PERTAINING TO THE MERGER
INITIAL PROPOSAL LITIGATION
Following the Company's announcement of the Initial Proposal in January
1998, seven lawsuits were instituted by shareholders against the Company, those
Continuing Shareholders who are directors of the Company and, except in certain
of the lawsuits, all or some of the other directors of the Company. While the
complaints varied, in general, they alleged that such directors breached
fiduciary duties, that the proposed price per share to be paid to Public
Shareholders was inadequate and that the proposal served no legitimate business
purpose of the Company. Although varying, the complaints generally sought a
declaration of class action status, damages in unspecified amounts alleged to be
caused to the plaintiffs, and other relief (including injunctive relief,
rescission or rescissory damages if the transaction was consummated), and costs
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and disbursements, including a reasonable allowance for counsel fees and
expenses. In June 1998, the Continuing Shareholders withdrew the Initial
Proposal and, in September 1998, all seven lawsuits, which were pending in the
Supreme Court in New York County and Suffolk County, New York, were voluntarily
discontinued, without prejudice, and without interest and costs.
CURRENT SHAREHOLDER LITIGATION
Following the Company's announcement of the Revised Proposal, seven
class action lawsuits were instituted by shareholders against the Company, those
Continuing Shareholders who are directors of the Company, and, except in certain
of the lawsuits, all or some of the other directors of the Company. The lawsuits
were instituted in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, New York County
and Suffolk County. The lawsuits in Suffolk County were discontinued and
subsequently refiled as one lawsuit in New York County (with one additional
plaintiff) in anticipation of consolidating all lawsuits into one lawsuit. While
the complaints in each of the lawsuits vary, in general, they allege that the
directors breached fiduciary duties, that the then proposed price of $27.50 to
be paid to Public Shareholders was inadequate and that there were inadequate
procedural protections for the Public Shareholders. Although varying, the
complaints seek, generally, a declaration of a breach of, or an order requiring
the defendants to carry out, their fiduciary duties to the plaintiffs, damages
in unspecified amounts alleged to be caused to the plaintiffs, other relief
(including injunctive relief or rescission or rescissory damages if the
transaction is consummated), and costs and disbursements, including a reasonable
allowance for counsel fees and expenses.
On January 19, 1999, counsel for all of the plaintiffs and counsel for
all of the defendants entered into a Memorandum of Understanding pursuant to
which an agreement in principle to settle all of the lawsuits was reached and
the Continuing Shareholders agreed to increase the Merger Consideration to
$28.85 per share. The Memorandum of Understanding states the plaintiffs' counsel
intend to apply to the Court for an award of attorneys' fees and disbursements
in an amount of no more than $2.1 million to be paid by the Company, which the
defendants have agreed not to oppose. The defendants are also responsible for
providing notice of the settlement to all class members. The settlement would
result in the complete discharge and bar of all claims against, past, present
and future officers and directors of the Company, and others associated with the
Merger with respect to matters and issues of any kind that have been or could
have been asserted in these lawsuits. The settlement is subject to, among other
things, (i) completion of a formal stipulation of settlement, (ii) certification
of the lawsuits as a class action covering all record and beneficial owners of
the Common Stock during the period beginning on November 25, 1998 through the
Effective Time, (iii) court approval of the settlement, and (iv) consummation of
the Merger. It is a condition to Mergeco's obligation under the Merger Agreement
that holders of no more than an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock
(approximately 4.9% of the Company's presently outstanding shares) request
exclusion from the settlement. The foregoing is a summary of the Memorandum of
Understanding and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of
the Memorandum of Understanding, which has been filed as an Exhibit to the
Schedule 13E-3.
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THE MERGER AGREEMENT
The following is a summary of the material provisions of the Merger
Agreement. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full
text of the Merger Agreement, a copy of which is attached as Annex I to this
Proxy Statement and incorporated herein by reference. Any capitalized terms used
and not defined below have the meanings given to them in the Merger Agreement.
THE MERGER; MERGER CONSIDERATION
The Merger Agreement provides that the Merger will become effective at
such time as Certificates of Merger are duly filed with the New York Department
of State by both the Company and Mergeco or at such later time as is specified
in the Certificates of Merger. If the Merger Agreement is adopted at the Meeting
by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the votes of all outstanding
shares of Common Stock and a majority of the votes cast at the Meeting,
excluding votes cast by the Continuing Shareholders, abstentions and broker
non-votes, and the other conditions to consummation of the Merger are satisfied,
it is currently anticipated that the Merger will become effective as soon
thereafter as practicable. See "-- Conditions." However, there can be no
assurance as to the timing of the consummation of the Merger or that the Merger
will be consummated.
At the Effective Time, Mergeco will be merged with and into the
Company, the separate corporate existence of Mergeco will cease, and the Company
will continue as the Surviving Corporation. In the Merger, each share of Common
Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than
Common Stock then (i) held in the treasury of the Company or (ii) owned of
record by Mergeco or the Continuing Shareholders) will, by virtue of the Merger
and without any action on the part of the holder of the shares, be converted
into the right to receive the Merger Consideration in cash, without interest,
upon surrender of the stock certificate representing such Common Stock. At the
Effective Time, the Public Shareholders will cease to have any rights as
shareholders of the Company, except the right to receive the Merger
Consideration. Each certificate representing a Public Share will, after the
Effective Time, evidence only the right to receive, upon the surrender of such
certificate, an amount of cash per share equal to the Merger Consideration
multiplied by the number of Public Shares evidenced by such certificate.
Each share of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to
the Effective Time which is then (i) held in the treasury of the Company or (ii)
owned of record by Mergeco or the Continuing Shareholders will automatically be
canceled, retired and cease to exist and no payment will be made with respect to
those shares.
Each membership unit of Mergeco issued and outstanding immediately
prior to the Effective Time will be converted into and become one share of
Common Stock of the Surviving Corporation and will constitute the only issued or
outstanding shares of capital stock of the Surviving Corporation immediately
after the Effective Time. Accordingly, after the Merger, the Continuing
Shareholders will be the only shareholders of the Surviving Corporation.
THE EXCHANGE FUND; PAYMENT FOR SHARES OF COMMON STOCK
As of or as soon as reasonably practicable following the Effective
Time, the Surviving Corporation will deposit in trust with a bank or trust
company with offices in New York City (the "PAYING AGENT"), for the benefit of
the Public Shareholders, cash in an aggregate amount equal to the product of (i)
the number of Public Shares issued and outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time and (ii) the Merger Consideration (the "EXCHANGE FUND"). See "--
Tax Withholding." The Paying Agent will, pursuant to irrevocable instructions,
make the payments provided for under the Merger Agreement out of the Exchange
Fund.
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Promptly after the Effective Time, the Surviving Corporation will cause
the Paying Agent to mail to each holder of record of Public Shares as of the
Effective Time a form letter of transmittal containing instructions for use in
surrendering certificates for payment in accordance with the Merger Agreement in
exchange for the Merger Consideration. NO SHAREHOLDER SHOULD SURRENDER ANY
CERTIFICATES UNTIL THE SHAREHOLDER RECEIVES THE LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND OTHER
MATERIALS FOR SUCH SURRENDER. Upon surrender of a certificate for cancellation,
together with a properly completed and executed letter of transmittal, to the
Paying Agent after the Effective Time, the holder of such certificate will be
entitled to receive the Merger Consideration in exchange for each Public Share
formerly represented by such certificate, without any interest, less any
required withholding of taxes. See "-- Tax Withholding." The certificate so
surrendered will be canceled.
Until surrendered pursuant to the procedures described above, after the
Effective Time each certificate will represent, for all purposes, the right to
receive the Merger Consideration in cash multiplied by the number of Public
Shares evidenced by such certificate, without any interest.
Any portion of the Exchange Fund that remains unclaimed by the Public
Shareholders one year after the Effective Time (including any interest,
dividends, earnings or distributions received on the unclaimed funds) will be
repaid to the Surviving Corporation, upon demand. Any Public Shareholders who
have not complied with the procedures set forth above may look only to the
Surviving Corporation for payment of their claim for the Merger Consideration,
without any interest, but will have no greater rights against the Surviving
Corporation than may be accorded to general creditors of the Surviving
Corporation under New York law. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the
Paying Agent nor any party to the Merger Agreement will be liable to any holder
of certificates formerly representing Public Shares for any amount paid to a
public official pursuant to any applicable abandoned property, escheat or
similar law.
TRANSFERS OF COMMON STOCK
After the Effective Time, there will be no transfers of Public Shares
on the stock transfer books of the Company. If, after the Effective Time,
certificates are presented to the Paying Agent or the Surviving Corporation,
they will be canceled and exchanged for the Merger Consideration multiplied by
the number of Public Shares evidenced by such certificates, without any
interest.
TREATMENT OF STOCK OPTIONS
At the Effective Time, all outstanding Stock Options, including Stock
Options held by the Continuing Shareholders, are to be terminated. In
consideration of such termination, the Surviving Corporation will pay to the
holder of each such Stock Option, in cash and as full settlement for such Stock
Option, whether or not then exercisable, an amount determined by multiplying (i)
the excess, if any, of the Merger Consideration over the applicable exercise
price per share of Common Stock subject to such Stock Option by (ii) the total
number of shares of Common Stock subject to such Stock Option. See " -- Tax
Withholding."
TAX WITHHOLDING
The Surviving Corporation and the Paying Agent will be entitled to
deduct and withhold from the amounts payable to any Public Shareholder or holder
of Stock Options such amounts as Mergeco, the Surviving Corporation or the
Paying Agent is required to deduct and withhold with respect to the making of
such payment under applicable tax law. To the extent that amounts are so
deducted and withheld by the Surviving Corporation or the Paying Agent, such
amounts will be treated for all purposes of the Merger
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Agreement as having been paid to the relevant Public Shareholder or holder of
Stock Options. See "SPECIAL FACTORS -- Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax
Consequences."
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS, CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAWS FOLLOWING THE
MERGER
The Merger Agreement provides that the current directors and officers
of the Company will be the initial directors and officers of the Surviving
Corporation. However, Paul A. Vatter, a director of the Company, has advised the
Company of his intention to retire upon consummation of the Merger or, if the
Merger Agreement is not adopted at the Meeting, upon expiration of his current
term at the next annual meeting of shareholders. In addition, Robert S. Koebele,
Vice President - Finance and Chief Financial Officer, has advised the Company
that he intends to retire in the early part of the summer of 1999 whether or not
the Merger is consummated.
The Certificate of Incorporation of the Company in effect immediately
prior to the Effective Time will be the Certificate of Incorporation of the
Surviving Corporation until it is subsequently amended, and the By-Laws of the
Company immediately prior to the Effective Time will be the By-Laws of the
Surviving Corporation until it is subsequently amended.
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
The Merger Agreement contains certain representations and warranties of
the Company, Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders. The representations of the
Company relate to, among other things, its organization, capitalization, power
and authority to enter into the Merger Agreement and the transactions
contemplated thereby, the binding effect of the Merger Agreement, the fairness
opinion of Prudential Securities, the recommendations by the Special Committee
and by the Board, compliance with required filings and consents under applicable
law, and the absence of conflicts with corporate documents and agreements. The
representations of Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders (which are joint and
several) relate to, among other things, the organization of Mergeco, the
ownership of Mergeco, the absence of obligations, liabilities or activities of
Mergeco except in furtherance of the transactions contemplated by the Merger
Agreement, the power and authority of Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders to
enter into the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated by the Merger
Agreement, the binding effect of the Merger Agreement, required filings and
consents and the Debt Financing Letter and sufficiency of the Debt Financing
contemplated thereby.
COVENANTS
The Company has agreed that, prior to the Effective Time, neither the
Company nor its subsidiaries will: (i) carry on their respective businesses
other than in the usual, regular and ordinary course of business consistent with
past practice, (ii) issue shares of Common Stock (other than pursuant to the
exercise of Stock Options outstanding on the date of the Merger Agreement) or
capital stock or options to purchase Common Stock or capital stock, (iii)
declare, set aside or pay any dividend or other distribution in respect of its
capital stock or other equity interest (with certain exceptions in the case of
subsidiaries), or (iv) repurchase its capital stock, or agree to do any of the
foregoing. The Company has agreed to use its best efforts to obtain the
necessary adoption of the Merger Agreement by the Public Shareholders. The
Merger Agreement provides that this Proxy Statement will include the
recommendation of the Board to the Public Shareholders in favor of the adoption
of the Merger Agreement (and reflect that the Special Committee has made a
similar recommendation to the Board), subject to the fiduciary duties under
applicable law of such directors (including the directors constituting the
Special Committee). Notwithstanding any other provision of the Merger Agreement
to the contrary, if the Board or the Special Committee determines, in good faith
in the exercise of its fiduciary duties under applicable law, that it is
required to withdraw, modify or amend its
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recommendation in favor of the Merger, such withdrawal, modification or
amendment will not constitute a breach of the Merger Agreement.
The Continuing Shareholders have agreed (i) to vote at the Meeting all
7,064,328 shares of outstanding Common Stock owned of record by them for
adoption of the Merger Agreement (but only if at least a majority of the votes
cast at the Meeting excluding votes cast by the Continuing Shareholders,
abstentions and broker non-votes, are cast in favor of adoption of the Merger
Agreement), (ii) not to grant a proxy to vote any shares other than to another
Continuing Shareholder or to persons identified in a proxy card distributed on
behalf of the Board, to vote such Continuing Shareholder's shares at the Meeting
in the manner provided in clause (i), and (iii) not to sell, transfer or
otherwise dispose of any of their shares (other than transfers of shares to
Mergeco or any family members of Mario Sbarro, Anthony Sbarro or Joseph Sbarro
or trusts for the benefit of such Continuing Shareholders or such family
members, which shares may be so transferred only if the transferee agrees in
writing to be bound by the terms of the agreements described in this paragraph).
In the event of any transfer of such shares, such shares will be deemed owned of
record by the Continuing Shareholders.
Mergeco has agreed not to conduct any business or enter into any
activities of any nature prior to the Effective Time, other than activities in
connection with the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated by the
Merger Agreement. Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders have also agreed to
use their best efforts to assist the Company in obtaining the Debt Financing on
terms and conditions no less favorable to the Company than those described under
the caption "SPECIAL FACTORS -- Financing of the Merger", and the Company has
agreed to cooperate with, and use its best efforts to assist, Mergeco in
obtaining the financing.
In addition, Mergeco, the Company and the Continuing Shareholders have
made further agreements regarding access to the Company's records, the calling
of the Meeting, the preparation, filing and mailing of this Proxy Statement and
the Schedule 13E-3 with the SEC, the obtaining of consents of third parties and
governmental authorities and making public announcements.
Subject to the terms and conditions provided in the Merger Agreement
and the fiduciary duties under applicable law of the directors of the Company,
including directors constituting the Special Committee, as determined by such
directors in good faith, each of the parties has agreed to use its best efforts
consistent with applicable legal requirements to take, or cause to be taken, all
action, and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary or proper and
advisable under applicable laws and regulations to ensure that the conditions to
consummation of the Merger are satisfied and to consummate and make effective,
in a commercially reasonable manner, the transactions contemplated by the Merger
Agreement. Mergeco and the Company also have agreed to use their best efforts to
obtain all material consents of third parties and governmental authorities, and
to make all governmental filings, necessary for the consummation of the
transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. The Continuing Shareholders
have agreed to use their best efforts to cause Mergeco to perform all of its
obligations under the Merger Agreement.
INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE
The NYBCL permits, in general, a New York corporation, such as the
Company, to indemnify any person made, or threatened to be made, a party to an
action or proceeding by reason of the fact that he or she was a director or
officer of the corporation, or served in any capacity at the request of the
corporation, against any judgment, fines, amounts paid in settlement and
reasonable expenses, including attorney's fees actually and necessarily incurred
as a result of such action or proceeding, or any appeal therein, if such
director or officer acted in good faith, for a purpose he or she reasonably
believe to be in, or, in the case of service for another entity, not opposed to,
the best interests of the corporation and, in criminal actions or proceedings,
in addition, had no reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was
unlawful. The NYBCL also permits
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the corporation to pay in advance of a final disposition of such action or
proceeding the expenses incurred in defending such action or proceeding upon
receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such person to repay such amount
as, and to the extent, required by law. The NYBCL provides that indemnification
and advancement of expense provisions contained in the NYBCL are not exclusive
of any rights to which a person seeking indemnification or advancement of
expenses may be entitled, whether contained in the certificate of incorporation
or the By-Laws of the corporation or, when authorized by such certificate of
incorporation or By-Laws, (i) a resolution of shareholders, (ii) a resolution of
directors or (iii) an agreement providing for indemnification. However, the
NYBCL also provides that no indemnification may be made on behalf of any such
person if a judgment or other final adjudication adverse to the person
establishes that his or her acts were committed in bad faith or were the result
of active or deliberate dishonesty and were material to the cause of action so
adjudicated, or that he or she personally gained, in fact, a financial profit or
other advantage to which he or she was not legally entitled.
The Company's Certificate of Incorporation provides, in accordance with
the NYBCL, that a director will not be personally liable to the Company or its
shareholders for damages for any breach of duty as a director unless a judgment
or other final adjudication adverse to the director establishes that (i) the
director's acts or omissions were in bad faith or involved intentional
misconduct or knowing violation of law, (ii) the director personally gained, in
fact, a financial profit or other advantage to which the director was not
legally entitled, or (iii) the director's acts violated provisions of the NYBCL
that impose liability upon directors in certain instances for declarations of
dividends, stock repurchases or redemptions, distributions of assets following a
dissolution, or loans to directors, when made contrary to NYBCL provisions.
The Company's By-Laws, adopted by shareholders at the Company's 1989
Annual Meeting of Shareholders, provide, among other things, that the Company
will indemnify any officer or director (including officers and directors serving
another entity in any capacity at the Company's request) to the fullest extent
permitted by law.
The Company is a party to indemnification agreements with each of its
directors and certain of its officers confirming the indemnification granted
under the Company's By-Laws.
The Merger Agreement provides that, until and for a period of six years
after the Effective Time, the provisions of the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation limiting the personal liability of directors for damages and the
indemnification provisions of the Company's Certificate of Incorporation and
By-Laws as they relate to those who have served as directors or officers of the
Company at any time through the Effective Time will not be amended, repealed or
otherwise modified in any manner that would make any of such provisions less
favorable to the directors or officers of the Company or the Surviving
Corporation than those that pertain to directors and officers on the date of the
Merger Agreement. Until and for a period of six years after the Effective Time
(subject to extension until the final disposition of any claim asserted or made
during such period), the Surviving Corporation will (i) indemnify, defend and
hold harmless the present and former officers and directors of the Company and
its subsidiaries, Mergeco and the members of Mergeco (collectively, the
"INDEMNIFIED PARTIES"), from and against, and pay or reimburse the Indemnified
Parties for, all losses, obligations, expenses, claims, damages or liabilities
resulting from or arising out of actions or omissions of such Indemnified
Parties occurring on or prior to the Effective Time (including, without
limitation, the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement) to the
fullest extent permitted or required, as the case may be, under (a) applicable
law, (b) the Company's Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws or the articles of
organization or operating agreement of Mergeco in effect on the date of the
Merger Agreement, including, without limitation, provisions relating to advances
of expenses incurred in the defense of any action or suit, (c) any
indemnification agreement between the Indemnified Party and the Company, or (d)
resolutions adopted by the shareholders or directors of the Company or the
members of Mergeco and (ii) advance to any Indemnified Parties expenses incurred
in defending any action or suit with respect to such matters upon receipt of an
undertaking (which need not be secured) by or on behalf of such Indemnified
Party
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to repay such amount as, and to the extent, it is not entitled to be
indemnified, in each case to the fullest extent such Indemnified Party is
entitled to indemnification or advancement of expenses under the Company's
Certificate of Incorporation, By-Laws or indemnification agreements with its
officers and directors or Mergeco's operating agreement in effect on the date
hereof and subject to the terms of such Certificate of Incorporation, By-Laws,
indemnification agreements or operating agreement. However, (i) no
indemnification will be made to or on behalf of Mergeco or a member of Mergeco
in his or its individual capacity or in his or its capacity as a member of
Mergeco which arises as a result of the transactions contemplated in the Merger
Agreement if a judgment or other final adjudication adverse to Mergeco or such
member of Mergeco, as the case may be, establishes that its or his acts
constituted a breach of (a) its or his fiduciary duties to the Company or the
shareholders of the Company or (b) any of Mergeco's or such member's
representations, warranties or obligations under the Merger Agreement which
caused the Company to terminate the Merger Agreement and (ii) nothing in the
Merger Agreement may be construed as adversely affecting any such member's
entitlement to indemnification from the Company as an officer or director of the
Company.
To support its indemnification obligation, the Surviving Corporation
has agreed to use its best efforts to obtain, and maintain effective for a
period of at least one year after the Effective Time, of at least $5.0 million
directors' and officers' liability insurance (i) covering reimbursement of the
Surviving Corporation for any obligation it may incur as a result of
indemnification of directors and officers and (ii) providing insurance for
directors and officers in cases where such reimbursement is not applicable,
including in the event of insolvency of the Company. However, the Surviving
Corporation is not required to pay a premium in excess of $100,000 for such
insurance, but, if such premium would exceed such amount, the Surviving
Corporation is to purchase as much coverage as possible for such amount. It is
the Company's understanding that such insurance will not cover actions taken by
directors and officers with respect to the transactions contemplated by the
Merger Agreement.
NO SOLICITATION; FIDUCIARY OBLIGATIONS OF DIRECTORS
The Company has agreed that it will not, and will not authorize or
permit any of their representatives to, (i) take any action to solicit, initiate
or encourage any offer or proposal for, or any indication of interest in, a
merger or other business combination involving the Company or any subsidiary of
the Company or the acquisition of any equity interest in, or the sale of a
substantial portion of the assets of, the Company or any such subsidiary (a
"TRANSACTION PROPOSAL"), except for the transactions contemplated under the
Merger Agreement or (ii) enter into negotiations with, or furnish information
to, any other party with respect to any Transaction Proposal. However, the
Company and their representatives will not be prohibited from taking any action
described in clause (ii) above to the extent such action is taken by, or upon
the authority of, the Board if, in the good faith judgment of the Board, (i)
such Transaction Proposal is (after consultation with a financial advisor of a
nationally recognized reputation) (a) more favorable to the Company's
shareholders than the Merger, (b) achievable, and (c) supported by creditable
financing, which may include a "highly confident" letter from a nationally
recognized investment banking firm or nationally recognized lending institution
and (ii) after consultation with counsel, failure to take such action would
breach the Board's fiduciary duties to the Company's shareholders under
applicable law. In addition, the Company is required to promptly provide Mergeco
with a summary of the material terms of any Transaction Proposal and of any
negotiations or communications between the Company or its subsidiaries or any of
their respective representatives concerning any Transaction Proposal. The
Company also is required to give Mergeco not less than three business days'
written notice before providing any confidential information to any person
(other than Mergeco, and prospective sources of the Debt Financing, and their
respective representatives) concerning the business, properties or prospects of
the Company and/or its subsidiaries. The Merger Agreement does not prohibit the
Company from making a statement to its shareholders that is required by Rule
14e-2(a) promulgated under the Exchange Act or from making any other disclosure
to its shareholders if, in the good faith judgment of the Board, after
consultation with counsel, failure to make such a disclosure
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would breach its fiduciary duties to the Company's shareholders under applicable
law or would otherwise violate the Exchange Act, other applicable law or stock
exchange regulations.
CONDITIONS
The respective obligations of each party to the Merger Agreement to
effect the Merger are subject to the following conditions: (i) the adoption of
the Merger Agreement at the Meeting by the affirmative vote of at least
two-thirds of the votes of all outstanding shares of Common Stock and a majority
of the votes cast at the Meeting, excluding votes cast by the Continuing
Shareholders, abstentions and broker non-votes, (ii) there will not have
occurred (a) a declaration of a banking moratorium or any suspension of payments
in respect of banks in the United States or (b) commencement of a war, armed
hostilities or other international or national calamity, directly involving the
United States, that has a material adverse effect on the general economic
conditions in the United States such as to make it, in the judgment of a party
to the Merger Agreement, inadvisable or impracticable to proceed with the Merger
or the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or by the Debt
Financing, or (iii) other than the filing of Certificates of Merger, each of the
Company and Mergeco will have obtained such consents from third parties and
approvals from governmental instrumentalities as will be required for the
consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, except
for such consents the failure to obtain which would not have a "Material Adverse
Effect."
A "MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT" is defined in the Merger Agreement as
something that has a material adverse effect on the business, condition
(financial or otherwise), properties, assets or prospects of the Company and its
subsidiaries, taken as a whole.
The obligations of Mergeco to effect the Merger are also subject to the
additional conditions that: (i) with certain exceptions, the representations and
warranties of the Company contained in the Merger Agreement will be true and
correct as of the date of the Merger Agreement and as of the closing date of the
Merger, (ii) each and all of the covenants and agreements of the Company
contained in the Merger Agreement will have been duly performed and complied
with, except where the failure to comply (a) would not have a Material Adverse
Effect or a material adverse effect on the ability of the Company to consummate
the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, or (b) was the direct
result of an act or omission of any of the Continuing Shareholders, (iii) there
has been no (a) material adverse change in the business, condition (financial or
otherwise), properties, assets or prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries
taken as a whole, (b) death or disability of any of Mario Sbarro, Anthony
Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro or Carmela Sbarro or any executive officer of the Company
having a family relationship (as defined in Item 401 of Regulation S-K
promulgated by the SEC) with a Continuing Shareholder, or (c) material adverse
change, or event or occurrence that is reasonably likely to result in an adverse
change, in securities, financial or borrowing markets, or applicable tax or
other laws or regulations, such as to decrease in any material respect the
benefits of the Merger to the Continuing Shareholders or make it impractical to
proceed with the Merger or the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement
or by the Debt Financing, (iv) no statute, rule, regulation, or temporary,
preliminary or permanent order or injunction will have been proposed,
promulgated, enacted, entered, enforced or deemed applicable by any state,
federal or foreign government or governmental authority or court or governmental
agency of competent jurisdiction that (a) prohibits consummation of the Merger
or the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or the Merger, or (b)
imposes material limitations on the ability of the Continuing Shareholders
effectively to exercise full rights of ownership with respect to the shares of
Common Stock to be issued to them pursuant to the Merger Agreement, (v) the
Current Shareholder Litigation has been consolidated into one lawsuit in the
Supreme Court of the State of New York and the settlement of the consolidated
lawsuit, as reflected in the Memorandum of Understanding, will have been
approved by the Supreme Court of New York County, final judgment will have been
entered in accordance with the Settlement Agreement contemplated in the
Memorandum of Understanding and will have become final and the consolidated
lawsuit will have been dismissed with prejudice and without costs to any
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party (except as provided in the Memorandum of Understanding) and no holders, or
holders of no more than an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock
(approximately 4.9% of the Company's presently outstanding shares), will have
requested exclusion from the settlement (see "LITIGATION PERTAINING TO THE
MERGER"), (vi) neither (a) any action, suit or proceeding before any court or
governmental body relating to the Merger or the transactions contemplated by the
Merger Agreement will be pending in which an unfavorable judgment or decree
could prevent or substantially delay the consummation of the Merger, or is
reasonably likely to (1) result in a material increase in the aggregate Merger
Consideration, (2) result in an award of material damages, (3) cause the Merger
to be rescinded, or (4) result in a material amount of rescissory damages, nor
(b) any decision in any action, suit or proceeding relating to the Merger or the
transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement will have been rendered by any
court or governmental body which has any such effect, and (vii) the Company has
obtained the Debt Financing (a) of at least $300 million, (b) on the material
terms and conditions no less favorable to the Surviving Corporation than those
set forth in the Term Sheet, and (c) having a yield to maturity not to exceed
11.25% per annum.
The obligations of the Company to effect the Merger are also subject to
the additional conditions that: (i) with certain exceptions, the representations
and warranties of Mergeco contained in the Merger Agreement will be true and
correct as of the date of the Merger Agreement and the closing date of the
Merger, (ii) each and all of the covenants and agreements of Mergeco contained
in the Merger Agreement will have been duly performed and complied with in all
material respects prior to the consummation of the Merger, except where the
failure to comply would not have a material adverse effect on the ability of
Mergeco to consummate the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, and
(iii) no statute, rule, regulation, or temporary, preliminary or permanent order
or injunction will have been proposed, promulgated, enacted, entered, enforced
or deemed applicable by any state, federal or foreign government or governmental
authority or court or governmental agency of competent jurisdiction that
prohibits consummation of the Merger or the transactions contemplated by the
Merger Agreement or the Merger.
TERMINATION
The Merger Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the
Effective Time, whether before or after approval by the shareholders of the
Company: (i) by mutual consent of the Board and the members of Mergeco, (ii)
automatically, if, at the Meeting, the Company's shareholders have not voted to
adopt the Merger Agreement by the requisite shareholder votes, (iii) by action
of the Board or the members of Mergeco if, without the fault of the terminating
party, the Merger has not been consummated on or prior to June 30, 1999, (iv) by
action of the Board or the members of Mergeco, if the Special Committee has
withdrawn or modified in a manner adverse to Mergeco its approval or
recommendation of the Merger, the Merger Agreement or the transactions
contemplated by the Merger Agreement, (v) by action of the members of Mergeco if
the conditions to the obligations of Mergeco contained in the Merger Agreement
have not been satisfied prior to the consummation of the Merger or have become
incapable of being satisfied or if the events the non-occurrence of which are a
condition to obligations of Mergeco contained in the Merger Agreement have
occurred prior to the consummation of the Merger, and (vi) by action of the
Board if the conditions to the obligations of the Company contained in the
Merger Agreement have not been satisfied prior to the consummation of the Merger
or have become incapable of being satisfied or if the events, whose
non-occurrence are a condition to the Company's obligations contained in the
Merger Agreement, have occurred prior to the consummation of the Merger. See "--
Conditions."
The Merger Agreement provides that in the event of its termination, no
party to the Merger Agreement will have any liability or further obligation to
any other party to the Merger Agreement and the Merger will be abandoned.
However (i) any termination by the Company arising out of a breach by Mergeco or
the Continuing Shareholders of any representation, warranty, covenant or
agreement contained in the Merger Agreement will be without prejudice to the
rights of the Company to seek damages with respect such breach, and (ii) any
termination by Mergeco arising out of a breach by the Company of any
representation,
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warranty, covenant or agreement contained in the Merger Agreement, other than a
breach by the Company that is the direct result of an act or omission of the
Continuing Shareholders, will be without prejudice to the rights of Mergeco to
seek damages with respect to such breach. The obligations described in this
paragraph and the obligations of the parties with respect to the payment of fees
and expenses described below survive any termination of the Merger Agreement.
FEES AND EXPENSES
If the Merger Agreement is terminated for any reason, except as
discussed below, the Company, on the one hand, and Mergeco and the Continuing
Shareholders, on the other hand, are each to pay their own fees and expenses.
The fees and expenses of the Company will include fees and expenses of financial
advisors (including Bear Stearns and Prudential Securities), accountants and
counsel for the Company and the Special Committee, and fees and expenses for the
preparation, printing, mailing and filing of documents used in connection with
the Merger and the Debt Financing. The fees and expenses of Mergeco will include
any commitment and other fees or expenses of any person providing or proposing
to provide the Debt Financing and fees and expenses of counsel for Mergeco.
Except with respect to any stock transfer taxes payable by Public Shareholders,
the Surviving Corporation will pay any transfer taxes (including any interest
and penalties thereon and additions on any transfer taxes) payable in connection
with the Merger and will be responsible for the preparation and filing of any
required tax returns, declarations, reports, schedules, terms and information
returns with respect to such transfer taxes.
If termination of the Merger Agreement is not due to the failure to
obtain the Debt Financing (or is due to a failure to obtain the Debt Financing
as a result of a material adverse change in the securities, financial or
borrowing markets, or applicable tax or other laws or regulations) or a breach
by Mergeco or the Continuing Shareholders of their representations, warranties
or covenants, then the Company will reimburse Mergeco and the Continuing
Shareholders for the fees and expenses incurred by them in connection with the
Merger, with the maximum reimbursement by the Company being $500,000 in the
aggregate.
If termination of the Merger Agreement is due to failure to obtain the
Debt Financing (unless resulting from a material adverse change in the
securities, financial or borrowing markets, or applicable tax or other laws or
regulations), then Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders will, jointly and
severally, be obligated to reimburse the Company for 50% of the fees and
expenses incurred by the Company in connection with the Merger, with the maximum
reimbursement by Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders being $500,000 in the
aggregate.
AMENDMENT AND WAIVER
Subject to applicable law, the Merger Agreement may be amended,
modified or supplemented by the written agreement of the parties at any time
prior to the Effective Time except that, in the case of the Company, such action
must be approved by the Special Committee. In addition, after shareholder
adoption of the Merger Agreement has been obtained, no amendment may be made
that reduces the amount or changes the form of the Merger Consideration or
otherwise materially and adversely affects the rights of the Public Shareholders
without further approval by the holders of such number of votes of Common Stock
that are required to adopt the Merger Agreement in accordance with the Merger
Agreement.
The Company and Mergeco, respectively, may waive the satisfaction of
any obligation, covenant, agreement or condition of the other under the Merger
Agreement. However, the waiver of any of the Company's rights under the Merger
Agreement requires the approval of the Special Committee. The Company has made
no determination as to whether it would waive any condition and any such
determination would be made on behalf of the Company by the Board based on the
facts and circumstances existing at the time such waiver is requested.
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BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY
OVERVIEW
The Company is a leading operator and franchiser of quick-service
restaurants, serving a wide variety of Italian specialty foods. Under the
"Sbarro" and "Sbarro The Italian Eatery" names, the Company developed one of the
first quick-service concepts that extended beyond offering one primary specialty
item (for example, pizza or hamburgers). The Company's menu includes pizza,
pasta and other hot and cold Italian entrees, salads, sandwiches, cheesecake and
other desserts and beverages. The Sbarro concept is unlike typical quick-service
restaurants because of its diverse menu of Italian foods, nor does it compare to
other Italian/pizza restaurants because of its fast, cafeteria style service.
As of January 3, 1999, the Sbarro system included 898 Sbarro
restaurants, consisting of 630 Company-operated and mall-based Umberto of New
Hyde Park restaurants and 268 franchised restaurants located in 48 States, the
District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, certain United States
territories and 21 countries throughout the world. For the year ended January 3,
1999, systemwide sales (including franchised locations, but excluding joint
venture locations other than mall-based Umberto of New Hyde Park restaurants),
Company operating revenues and Company EBITDA were $511.0 million, $370.1
million and $82.7 million, respectively. EBITDA margin for this period was
approximately 22.2%, which is among the highest in the quick-service restaurant
industry.
Since its inception, the Company has focused on high customer traffic
venues due to the density of captive customers who base their eating decision
primarily on impulse and convenience. This provides the Company more flexibility
in pricing and allows the Company to avoid the significant advertising and
promotional spending that is often employed to attract customers to destination
restaurants. These factors, combined with adherence to strict cost controls,
provide Sbarro with high and stable operating margins. The Company initially
located its restaurant sites in New York and then, with the rapid expansion of
enclosed shopping malls in the 1970s, expanded into these facilities due to
their high traffic, impulse purchase characteristics. Over the past ten years,
the Company has extended the Sbarro concept to other high traffic venues,
including toll roads and airports, sports arenas, hospitals, convention centers,
university campuses and casinos. The Company believes the opportunity to open
Sbarro units in new venues should continue to expand in the future as companies,
municipalities and others seek to outsource their non-core food operations.
The Company has demonstrated its ability to identify, develop and
efficiently operate restaurants and has increased its total restaurant base
(including franchised operations) from 123 restaurants at the time of the
Company's initial public offering of Common Stock in 1985 to 898 at January 3,
1999. Over the past decade, the Company's growth in shopping malls has been
primarily derived from opportunities that have arisen from the major renovation
of existing shopping malls or the re-merchandising of a mall's food operations
and, to a lesser extent, the development of new shopping malls. Historically,
the Company's strategy has been to operate its restaurants directly whenever
possible in order to closely control all aspects of restaurant operations and,
thus, maximize restaurant profitability. The Company grants franchises to
accomplish its expansion in international markets and to minimize its capital
risk and grants franchises domestically when appropriate. The Company has
developed a qualification and training program that provides strict operating
standards for franchisees and also restricts the size of territories granted to
franchisees. The Company believes that franchised units meet the quality and
customer service benchmarks of Company-owned units, and expects that a higher
percentage of future new unit growth will come from franchised locations, as the
Company seeks to expand the Sbarro concept into new venues, both domestically
and internationally. For the year ended January 3, 1999, Company-operated
restaurant revenues accounted for approximately 97.7% of total operating
revenues, with franchise related income accounting for the balance.
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INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
The restaurant industry is one of the largest sectors of the economy,
with estimated industry sales of approximately $336 billion in 1998, accounting
for more than 4% of the nation's gross domestic product. Between 1990 and 1997
(the latest available information), restaurant industry sales grew an average of
4.5% annually.
The quick-service restaurant industry, which includes hamburgers,
pizza, chicken, various types of sandwiches, and Mexican, Chinese and other
ethnic foods, has generally experienced growth. The National Restaurant
Association estimates that sales at quick-service restaurants reached
approximately $106 billion in 1998, compared with approximately $62 billion in
1988. This growth primarily reflects consumers' increasing desire for a
convenient, reasonably priced restaurant experience. This trend is expected to
continue as the increasing percentage of dual-earner households and higher
disposable incomes, combined with decreasing leisure time, continue to increase
the percentage of meals eaten away from the home. According to the National
Restaurant Association, the percentage of the average family's food budget spent
on meals consumed "away from home" increased from approximately 25% of the food
budget in 1955 to approximately 39% in 1995 (the latest available information).
Approximately 50% of Sbarro's revenues are derived from pizza. Many of the
Company's most direct competitors operate within the pizza restaurant segment.
At the end of 1997, there were over 30,000 pizza restaurants in operation,
generating nearly $16 billion in revenues.
COMPETITIVE STRENGTHS
The Company believes its success in the quick-service restaurant
industry is attributed to the following competitive strengths:
LEADING QUICK SERVICE OPERATOR IN HIGH CUSTOMER TRAFFIC VENUES. The
Company, through its "Sbarro" and "Sbarro The Italian Eatery" brands, is the
leading Italian quick-service restaurant operator and franchisor, having
developed a proven business model for operating in shopping malls, airports,
toll roads and other high customer traffic locations. Several national
quick-service chains have attempted to replicate their stand-alone concept in
malls and other locations but have reduced the scope of their operations in
these venues. Additionally, the Company has developed close relationships with
many of the major shopping mall developers and operators, as well as national
food service companies that franchise restaurants in other high traffic
locations. As a result of these longstanding relationships, the Company believes
it has a competitive advantage in opening new units in shopping malls and other
dense customer traffic locations.
STRONG, NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED BRAND NAME. The breadth of Sbarro's
operations and the visibility of its units across many high customer traffic
locations have enabled the Company to forge strong brand name recognition with
consumers. The Company's consistent product quality and service, its varied menu
of moderately priced Italian food served in a cafeteria style format, its
distinctive logo and its clean and bright locations have become recognized
symbols of the Company.
CONSISTENT RECORD OF GROWTH AND PROFITABILITY. Sbarro has a track
record of consistent operating performance and a high level of profitability.
Its operating and cost controls and business model have resulted in a consistent
revenue base and a relatively low cost structure. Company operating revenues and
EBITDA have increased from $294.0 million and $73.0 million, respectively, in
fiscal 1994 to $370.1 million and $82.1 million, respectively, for the fiscal
year ended January 3, 1999 (which consisted of 53 weeks). The Company's EBITDA
margin for its most recent fiscal year of approximately 22.2% is among the
highest in the restaurant industry.
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<PAGE>
PROVEN BUSINESS MODEL. In the 40 years of operations of the Company and
its Sbarro family owned predecessors, Sbarro management has developed and
refined a business model for high traffic customer venues. The Company has
extensive experience in identifying and developing restaurant locations and in
operating these sites. The Company forecasts the initial capital investment and
pre-opening costs associated with opening new Sbarro restaurants, as well as
estimated profitability. Since the cost of food, paper products, payroll and
other employee benefits is generally within a small range as a percentage of
restaurant sales from location to location, the Company's forecasting focuses on
projected restaurant revenues and the fixed and semi-variable costs expected to
be incurred. The Company's forecasting approach also projects a prospective
restaurant's revenues based on such factors as the area's demographics and the
retail environment surrounding the location. Additionally, the Company has
developed a restaurant operations model which specifies all aspects of
restaurant management, including recipes, production processes, restaurant
design, customer service and staff training. This model ensures consistency of
product and service and efficient ingredients usage.
MODERATE CAPITAL EXPENDITURE REQUIREMENTS. Most Sbarro restaurant units
have limited capital expenditure requirements for both their initial development
and ongoing maintenance. Approximately 93% of the 630 Company-owned locations
(including Umberto of New Hyde Park mall locations) are located in shopping
malls and, as a result, the units are relatively small (500-3,000 square feet)
and are inexpensive to develop, as compared to other fast food establishments
which primarily have larger, free standing locations. Additionally, the majority
of the Company's units have limited, if any, dedicated seating solely for Sbarro
customers as a result of their location in common area food courts, thus further
minimizing costs. A new Sbarro unit typically requires a $300,000-$400,000
initial capital investment with minimal annual maintenance expenditures
thereafter. Further, the Company's franchisees fund capital expenditures for
their units. As a result of the limited capital expenditure requirements, along
with immediate payment for all Company restaurant sales, the Company generates
significant free cash flow.
BUSINESS STRATEGY
The Company continuously seeks to provide high quality, affordably
priced Italian food products to a broad customer base. Sbarro has concentrated
its product development on creating a menu of healthy, moderately priced items
that appeal to the tastes of its customers and produce high gross margins. The
Company intends to achieve further growth and strengthen its competitive
position through the continued implementation of the following initiatives:
EXPAND TRADITIONAL SBARRO STORE BASE. The Company plans to continue to
increase its network of Company-operated and franchised Sbarro locations. New
Company-operated locations will primarily be driven by opportunities arising
from major renovations of existing shopping malls or the re-merchandising of the
mall's food operations and, to a lesser extent, the development of new shopping
malls. The Company also plans to increase the level of franchising with selected
franchisees in both international and domestic markets.
INCREASE PENETRATION OF NEW HIGH CUSTOMER TRAFFIC VENUES. The Company
began targeting toll roads and airport locations in the early 1990s and,
subsequently, sports arenas, hospitals, convention centers, university campuses
and casinos due to the similar characteristics (i.e., customer density, impulse
purchase, etc.) between these venues and the Company's significant base of
shopping mall locations. Approximately 13% of the Company's existing restaurants
are located in these non-mall venues. The Company believes these venues offer
significant expansion potential as the operators of these facilities
increasingly seek to outsource their food service operations to companies with
an established brand in order to simplify their own operations and maximize
profitability.
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<PAGE>
PURSUE STRATEGIC JOINT VENTURE ARRANGEMENTS. The Company has developed,
and expects to continue to selectively develop, new restaurant concepts. For
example, the Company has, through a joint venture, developed twelve Umberto's of
New Hyde Park restaurants, a casual dining concept (six of which are located in
shopping malls and six of which are located in strip shopping centers) offering
a diverse menu of Italian specialties at moderate prices with both dine-in and
counter/takeout service. A second joint venture operates five casual dining
restaurants, with a Rocky Mountain steakhouse motif, under the name Boulder
Creek Steaks & Saloon and one fine dining Rothmann's Steakhouse, with a second
fine dining steakhouse under construction. Another venture operates a moderately
priced, table service restaurant chain featuring an Italian Mediterranean menu,
currently operating two restaurants under the names Salute and Cafe Med. The
Company has chosen to invest in these entities by partnering with restaurateurs
experienced in the particular food area. To date, all joint-venture restaurants,
except four Umber to of New Hyde Park mall units, are located in the New York
City metropolitan area.
A new joint venture has entered into an agreement to acquire a business
which currently operates two Mexican-style restaurants, and the Company is also
currently considering a fifth joint venture for the purpose of establishing a
seafood restaurant chain.
A description of the Company's business, and other information about
the Company, is contained in the Company's Annual Repot on Form 10-K for the
year ended January 3, 1999, which is incorporated into this Proxy Statement by
reference. See "Where You Can Find More Information."
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<PAGE>
MANAGEMENT
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY
The following table contains the name and business address of each
director and executive officer of the Company, the present principal occupation
or employment of each of those persons and the name, principal business and
address of the corporation or other organization in which the occupation or
employment of each of those persons is conducted. Also set forth below are the
material occupations, positions, offices and employment of each of those persons
and the name, principal business and address of any corporation or other
organization in which any material occupation, position, office or employment of
each such person was held during the last five years. Mario Sbarro, Anthony
Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro, Carmela Sbarro, Harold L. Kestenbaum, Richard A. Mandell,
Paul A. Vatter, Terry Vince and Bernard Zimmerman are directors of the Company.
Each person listed below is a citizen of the United States. Unless otherwise
indicated below, the business address of each director and executive officer,
for the past five years, has been at the principal executive office of the
Company. Beginning five years prior to the date of this Proxy Statement and
continuing until November 1998, the principal executive office of the Company
was located at 763 Larkfield Road, Commack, New York 11725. Since November 1998,
the Company's principal executive office has been 401 Broadhollow Road,
Melville, New York 11747.
Business Address and
Name Principal Occupations
---- ---------------------
MARIO SBARRO Mr. Sbarro has been an officer, a director
and a principal shareholder of the Company
since its organization in 1977, serving as
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer for more than the past five years
and President since May 1996.
ANTHONY SBARRO Mr. Sbarro has been an officer, a director
and a principal shareholder of the Company
since its organization in 1977, serving as
Vice Chairman of the Board since May 1996
and as President and Chief Operating
Officer from December 1993 through May
1996. For more than five years prior to
December 1993, Mr. Sbarro was an Executive
Vice President of the Company. He also has
served as Treasurer of the Company for more
than the past five years.
JOSEPH SBARRO Mr. Sbarro has been an officer, a director
and a principal shareholder of the Company
since its organization in 1977, serving as
Senior Executive Vice President since
December 1993. For more than five years
prior thereto, Mr. Sbarro was an Executive
Vice President of the Company. He also has
served as Secretary of the Company for more
than the past five years.
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<PAGE>
Business Address and
Name Principal Occupations
---- ---------------------
CARMELA SBARRO Mrs. Sbarro has been a Vice President of
the Company since March 1985. Mrs. Sbarro
was a founder of the Company, together with
her late husband, Gennaro Sbarro. Mrs.
Sbarro devotes a substantial portion of her
time to recipe and product development.
Mrs. Sbarro has served as a director of the
Company since January 1998.
HAROLD L. KESTENBAUM Mr. Kestenbaum has been a practicing
attorney in New York since 1976. From
October 1997 to the present, the business
address of Mr. Kestenbaum has been 585
Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York
11530. From five years prior to the date of
this Proxy Statement through September
1997, the business address of Mr.
Kestenbaum was 170 Old Country Road,
Mineola, New York 11501. He became a
director of the Company in March 1985.
RICHARD A. MANDELL Mr. Mandell is a private investor. His
residence address is 666 Greenwich Street,
New York, New York 10014. Mr. Mandell was a
Managing Director of the investment firm of
BlueStone Capital Partners, L.P., 575 Fifth
Avenue, New York, New York 10017, from
February until April 1998 and Vice
President - Private Investments of Clariden
Asset Management (NY) Inc., 12 East 49th
Street, New York, New York 10022, a
subsidiary of Clariden Bank, a private
Swiss bank, from January 1996 until
February 1998. From 1982 until June 1995,
Mr. Mandell served as a Managing Director
of Prudential Securities, One New York
Plaza, New York, New York 10292. He became
a director of the Company in March 1986.
Mr. Mandell is also a director of
Trend-Lines, Inc., USA Detergents, Inc. and
Shells Seafood Restaurants, Inc.
PAUL A. VATTER Mr. Vatter has been Professor Emeritus
since his retirement in 1995, and from 1970
until his retirement was Lawrence E.
Fouraker Professor of Business
Administration, at Harvard University's
Graduate School of Business Administration,
Cumnock Hall, Boston, Massachusetts 02163,
where he served as a Professor since 1958.
His residence address is 244 Clifton
Street, Belmont, Massachusetts 02178. He
became a director of the Company in March
1985. Mr. Vatter has advised the Company of
his intention to retire upon consummation
of the Merger or, if the Merger Agreement
is not adopted at the Meeting, upon the
expiration of his current term at the next
annual meeting of shareholders.
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<PAGE>
Business Address and
Name Principal Occupations
---- ---------------------
TERRY VINCE Mr. Vince has been Chairman of the Board
and President of Sovereign Hotels, 591
North Avenue, Wakefield, Massachusetts
01880, a company that operates hotels,
since October 1991 and Chairman of the
Board of Fame Corp., 1400 State Street,
Springfield, Massachusetts 01109, a food
service management company, since January
1994. He became a director of the Company
in December 1988.
BERNARD ZIMMERMAN Mr. Zimmerman has been President of Bernard
Zimmerman and Co., Inc. since October 1972
and was Senior Vice President of The
Zimmerman Group, Inc. from January 1991 to
November 1996, financial and management
consulting firms. The address of Bernard
Zimmerman and Co., Inc. and The Zimmerman
Group, Inc. is 18 High Meadow Road, Weston,
Connecticut 06883. Mr. Zimmerman also
served as President and a director of
Beacon Hill Mutual Fund, Inc., 75 Federal
Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110, from
December 1994 until October 1996. From 1986
until September 1993, Mr. Zimmerman was
Chairman and President of St. Lawrence
Seaway Corp., an owner and manager of
agricultural properties. Mr. Zimmerman has
been a certified public accountant in New
York for more than the past 35 years. He
became a director of the Company in March
1985.
JOHN BERNABEO Mr. Bernabeo joined the Company in August
1992 and served in various capacities prior
to his election as Vice President
Architecture and Engineering in May 1997.
JOSEPH A. FALLARINO Mr. Fallarino joined the Company in
September 1998 and was elected Vice
President - Human Resources in November
1998. Prior to joining the Company, Mr.
Fallarino served as Senior Vice President -
Human Resources of Arbor Management LLC,
333 Omni Building, Earl Ovington Boulevard,
Uniondale, New York 11553 , a provider of
financial services and healthcare services,
from March 1996 until March 1998, and Vice
President Human - Resources of AMS
Corporation, 855 Avenue of the Americas,
New York, New York 10001, a national
outsourcing company, from January 1994
until February 1996, and Director of Human
Resources of Ogden Corporation, 2 Penn
Plaza, New York, New York, an international
diversified services corporation, from
April 1988 until September 1993.
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Business Address and
Name Principal Occupations
----- ---------------------
GEORGE W. HERZ II Mr. Herz joined the Company in November
1995 and was elected Vice President and
General Counsel in February 1996. Prior to
joining the Company, Mr. Herz served as
General Counsel from 1993 and Corporate
Counsel from 1982 until 1992 of Minuteman
Press International, Inc., 1640 New
Highway, Farmingdale, New York 11735, a
franchisor of printing centers.
ROBERT S. KOEBELE Mr. Koebele has been Vice President -
Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the
Company for more than the past five years.
Mr. Koebele has been a certified public
accountant in New York for more than the
past 30 years. Mr. Koebele has advised the
Company that he intends to retire in the
early part of the summer of 1999, whether
or not the Merger is consummated.
CARMELA N. MERENDINO Ms. Merendino has been Vice President -
Administration of the Company for more than
the past five years. Ms. Merendino joined
the Company in March 1985 and performed a
variety of corporate administrative
functions for the Company prior to her
election as Vice President -
Administration.
ANTHONY J. MISSANO Mr. Missano has been Corporate Vice
President - Operations since August 1996,
prior to which he served the Company as
Vice President - Operations (West) since
February 1995, and as a Zone Vice President
from June 1992 until February 1995.
GENNARO A. SBARRO Mr. Sbarro has been Corporate Vice
President-Franchising of the Company since
August 1996, prior to which he served the
Company as Vice President - Franchising
since February 1995. For more than five
years prior thereto, Mr. Sbarro served the
Company in various capacities with the
Company.
GENNARO J. SBARRO Mr. Sbarro has been Corporate Vice
President - Operations of the Company since
August 1996, prior to which he served as
Vice President - Operations (East) since
February 1995, and as a Zone Vice President
from June 1992 until February 1995.
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Business Address and
Name Principal Occupations
---- ---------------------
LEONARD G. SKROSKY Mr. Skrosky, who rejoined the Company in
June 1996, has been Senior Vice President -
Real Estate since November 1996. Mr.
Skrosky was Senior Vice President - Real
Estate and Lease Administration from
February 1987 until December 1993. From
January 1994 until June 1996, Mr. Skrosky
was President of The Skrosky Company, 510
Hallet Road, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
18301, a real estate firm dealing with site
selection and lease negotiations for
several restaurant and other companies.
FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS
Mario, Anthony and Joseph Sbarro are the sons of Carmela Sbarro.
Carmela N. Merendino is the daughter, and Gennaro A. Sbarro is the son, of Mario
Sbarro. Gennaro J. Sbarro is the son, and Anthony J. Missano is the son-in-law,
of Joseph Sbarro.
BACKGROUND OF THE CONTINUING SHAREHOLDERS
The only members of Mergeco are Mario Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro and Anthony
Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro (1994) Family Limited Partnership and Mario Sbarro and
Franklin Montgomery, not individually but as trustees under that certain Trust
Agreement dated April 28, 1984 for the benefit of Carmela Sbarro and her
descendants (the "TRUST OF CARMELA SBARRO"). Information concerning Mario,
Joseph and Anthony Sbarro is contained in "-- Directors and Executive Officers
of the Company." Joseph Sbarro (1994) Family Limited Partnership is a New York
partnership formed in June 1994, whose business address is c/o Joseph Sbarro,
Sbarro, Inc., 401 Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York 11747. It holds
investments of the family of Joseph Sbarro. The business address of the Trust of
Carmela Sbarro is c/o Mario Sbarro, Sbarro, Inc., 401 Broadhollow Road,
Melville, New York 11747. It was formed in April 1984 and is a trust for the
benefit of Carmela Sbarro and her descendants. The trustees of the Trust of
Carmela Sbarro are Mario Sbarro and Franklin Montgomery. Franklin Montgomery, a
citizen of the United States, has been an attorney in sole practice for more
than the past five years. His business address is 488 Madison Avenue, New York,
New York 10022.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN
BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the
ownership of Common Stock as of April 15, 1999 (except as noted below) with
respect to (i) holders known to the Company to beneficially own more than five
percent of the outstanding Common Stock, (ii) each director of the Company,
(iii) each executive officer of the Company, (iv) all directors and executive
officers of the Company as a group and (v) each Continuing Shareholder. The
Company understands that, except as noted below, each beneficial owner
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has sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares attributable to
such owner. As of April 15, 1999, Mergeco did not beneficially own any shares of
Common Stock.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Amount and Nature of Percent of
Beneficial Owner Beneficial Ownership(1) Class (2)
---------------- ----------------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Mario Sbarro (3)................................. 1,916,586 (4) 9.2%
Anthony Sbarro (3)............................... 1,432,133 (5) 6.9%
Joseph Sbarro (3)................................ 2,007,913 (6) 9.7%
Trust of Carmela Sbarro (3)(7)................... 2,497,884 12.2%
Carmela Sbarro (3)............................... 400 *
Harold L. Kestenbaum............................. 25,500 (8) *
Richard A. Mandell............................... 18,750 (9) *
Paul A. Vatter................................... 21,000 (9) *
Terry Vince...................................... 22,050 (9) *
Bernard Zimmerman................................ 60,700 (10) *
John Bernabeo.................................... 833 (11) *
Joseph A. Fallarino.............................. 0 --
George W. Herz II................................ 4,666 (11) *
Robert S. Koebele................................ 25,666 (12) *
Carmela N. Merendino............................. 20,966 (13) *
Anthony J. Missano............................... 39,166 (11) *
Gennaro A. Sbarro................................ 54,187 (14) *
Gennaro J. Sbarro................................ 39,166 (11) *
Leonard G. Skrosky............................... 70,649 (15) *
Joel M. Greenblatt............................... 1,917,329 (16) 9.3%
Bank One Corporation............................. 1,213,600 (17) 5.9%
All directors and executive officers as a 8,253,765 (18) 38.1%
group (18) persons.............................
- ---------------
</TABLE>
(1) Shares subject to Stock Options, for purposes of the table, are
considered beneficially owned only to the extent currently exercisable
or exercisable within 60 days after April 15, 1999. See "THE MERGER
AGREEMENT -- Treatment of Stock Options."
(2) Asterisk indicates less than 1%. As of February 15, 1999, 20,531,977
shares of Common Stock were outstanding. Shares subject to Stock
Options are considered outstanding only for the purpose of computing
the percentage of outstanding Common Stock which would be owned by the
optionee if such Stock Options were exercised, but (except for the
calculation of beneficial ownership by all executive officers and
directors as a group) are not considered outstanding for the purpose of
computing the percentage of outstanding Common Stock owned by any other
person.
(3) The business address of each of Mario Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro, Anthony
Sbarro, the Trust of Carmela Sbarro and Carmela Sbarro is 401
Broadhollow Road, Melville, New York 11747.
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(4) Includes (i) 740 shares owned by Mr. Sbarro's wife and 4,450 shares
owned by a charitable foundation supported by Mr. Sbarro and his wife,
of which Mr. Sbarro, his wife and another director of the Company are
the directors (as to which shares, in each case, Mr. Sbarro disclaims
beneficial ownership), and (ii) 386,666 shares subject to Stock
Options. Excludes the 2,497,884 shares held by the Trust of Carmela
Sbarro, of which trust Mr. Sbarro serves as a trustee (as to which
shares Mr. Sbarro may be deemed a beneficial owner with shared voting
and dispositive power). See footnote (7) below.
(5) Includes 198,333 shares subject to Stock Options.
(6) Includes (i) 609,000 shares owned by Joseph Sbarro (1994) Family
Limited Partnership, of which Mr. Sbarro is the sole general partner,
and (ii) 199,999 shares subject to Stock Options.
(7) The Trust of Carmela Sbarro was created by Carmela Sbarro for her
benefit and for the benefit of her descendants, including Mario,
Joseph, and Anthony Sbarro. The trustees of the trust are Franklin
Montgomery, whose business address is 488 Madison Avenue, New York, New
York 10022, and Mario Sbarro. As trustees, Franklin Montgomery and
Mario Sbarro may be deemed to be the beneficial owners of these shares
with shared voting and dispositive power.
(8) Represents (i) 6,750 shares owned by Mr. Kestenbaum's wife, as to which
shares Mr. Kestenbaum disclaims beneficial ownership, and (ii) 18,750
shares subject to Stock Options.
(9) Includes 18,750 shares subject to Stock Options.
(10) Includes (i) 4,450 shares owned by a family foundation supported by
Mario Sbarro and his wife, of which Mr. Zimmerman is a director (as to
which shares Mr. Zimmerman disclaims beneficial ownership), and (ii)
18,750 and 37,500 shares subject to Stock Options held, respectively,
by Mr. Zimmerman individually and Bernard Zimmerman and Company, Inc.,
a company of which Mr.
Zimmerman is President and a majority shareholder.
(11) Represents shares subject to Stock Options.
(12) Includes 14,666 shares subject to Stock Options.
(13) Includes (i) 4,730 shares owned by Ms. Meredino's husband and 1,840
shares owned by Ms. Merendino as custodian for her minor children (as
to which shares, in each case, Ms. Merendino disclaims beneficial
ownership), and (ii) 9,666 shares subject to Stock Options.
(14) Includes (i) 3,140 shares owned by Mr. Sbarro's wife, as to which
shares Mr. Sbarro disclaims beneficial ownership, and (ii) 44,917
shares subject to Stock Options.
(15) Includes 66,666 shares subject to Stock Options.
(16) Based solely upon information as of March 3, 1999 contained in a
Schedule 13D dated March 5, 1999 filed with the SEC and the Company by
Mr. Greenblatt, Gotham Capital V, LLC, Gotham
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<PAGE>
Capital VI, LLC and Gotham Capital VII, LLC, each of whose address is
100 Jericho Quadrangle, Suite 212, Jericho, New York 11753. The
Schedule 13G indicates that Mr. Greenblatt has sole voting and
dispositive power with respect to 41,500 shares and that he shares
voting and dispositive power with respect to 974,327 shares with Gotham
Capital V, LLC, 489,000 shares with Gotham Capital VI, LLC and 412,502
shares with Gotham Capital VII, LLC.
(17) Based solely upon information as of December 31, 1998 contained in a
Schedule 13G dated February 1, 1999 filed with the SEC and the Company
by Bank One Corporation, One First National Plaza, Chicago, Illinois
60670 as parent holding company of NBD Bank (Indiana), NBD Bank
(Michigan) and Pegasus Funds. The Schedule 13G indicates that Bank One
Corporation has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to
1,209,900 shares and sole voting power with respect to another 3,700
shares. The Company believes Bank One Corporation may have sold some or
all of the shares beneficially owned by it.
(18) Includes (i) 4,450 owned by a charitable foundation, of which a
director and executive officer of the Company, his wife and another
director of the Company are directors, as to which shares each
disclaims beneficial ownership, (ii) an aggregate of 17,200 shares
owned by spouses, and as custodian for minor children, of directors and
executive officers, as to which shares beneficial ownership is
disclaimed and (iii) 1,135,994 shares subject to Stock Options.
CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS IN THE COMMON STOCK
There have been no transactions in the Common Stock effected since
December 15, 1998 by (i) the Company or any majority-owned subsidiary of the
Company, (ii) any director or executive officer of the Company, (iii) any
persons controlling the Company, (iv) Mergeco, (v) any Continuing Shareholder,
including the general partner of the Joseph Sbarro (1994) Family Limited
Partnership or either trustee of the Trust of Carmela Sbarro, or (vi) any
associate of any of the foregoing, except that the Company has issued an
aggregate of 334 shares to employees (none of whom is within the foregoing
categories of persons) upon the exercise of Stock Options under stock option
plans of the Company.
It is the present intention of the following persons (as well as other
children of Mario Sbarro who own an aggregate of 7,170 shares of Common Stock)
to sell the shares indicated opposite their names prior to the Effective Time in
order to recognize capital gain tax treatment with respect to the disposition of
their presently owned Common Stock rather than ordinary income tax treatment
that would otherwise apply to them as a result of their family relationship to
Mario Sbarro if they exchanged their shares in the Merger (see "SPECIAL FACTORS
- -- Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences"):
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RELATIONSHIP TO THE COMPANY AND NUMBER
NAME CONTINUING SHAREHOLDERS OF SHARES
- ---- -------------------------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Annunziatina Sbarro Wife of Mario Sbarro 740
Carmela Sbarro Vice President, director and mother of Mario, Joseph and 400
Anthony Sbarro
Carmela N. Merendino Vice President-Administration and daughter of Mario Sbarro 4,730
Gennaro A. Sbarro Vice President-Franchising and son of Mario Sbarro 6,130
</TABLE>
Neither the Company nor any of the Continuing Shareholders (who are
considered to be the only affiliates of the Company) have made any purchases of
Common Stock since December 29, 1996.
On February 19, 1997, the Company granted Stock Options, exercisable at
$25.125 per share, to the following current executive officers: Mario Sbarro (to
purchase 100,000 shares); Anthony Sbarro (to purchase 100,000 shares); Joseph
Sbarro (to purchase 100,000 shares); Gennaro A. Sbarro (to purchase 80,000
shares); Gennaro J. Sbarro (to purchase 80,000 shares); Anthony J. Missano (to
purchase 80,000 shares); Carmela Merendino (to purchase 6,500 shares); Robert
Koebele (to purchase 6,500 shares); George W. Herz II (to purchase 4,000 shares)
and John Bernabeo (to purchase 2,500 shares). On May 21, 1997, Mario Sbarro was
granted an additional Stock Option to purchase 150,000 shares of Common Stock at
an exercise price of $28.875 per share. Following the Company's 1997 annual
meeting of shareholders, held on May 21, 1997, Harold L. Kestenbaum, Richard A.
Mandell, Paul A. Vatter, Terry Vince and Bernard Zimmerman, the Company's
non-employee directors, were each granted Stock Options to purchase 3,750 shares
of Common Stock at an exercise price of $28.875 per share and, following the
1998 annual meeting of shareholders, held on August 19, 1998, those non-employee
directors were each granted options to purchase 3,750 shares of Common Stock at
$24.0625 per share. On November 17, 1998, Joseph Fallarino was granted a Stock
Option to purchase 5,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $24.8125
per share.
INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
The Company's consolidated financial statements as at January 3, 1999
and December 28, 1997 and for the three fiscal years ended December 29, 1996,
December 28, 1997 and January 3, 1999 included in this Proxy Statement have been
audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public accountants, as stated in
their report with respect thereto. It is expected that representatives of Arthur
Andersen LLP will be present at the Meeting, both to respond to appropriate
questions of shareholders of the Company and to make a statement if they desire.
-78-
<PAGE>
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
If the Merger is consummated, there no longer will be public
shareholders of the Company and no public participation in any future meetings
of shareholders of the Company. However, if the Merger is not consummated, the
Company intends to hold its 1999 Annual Meeting of Shareholders on or about
________, 1999. If a shareholder intends to present a proposal at the Company's
1999 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and wants that proposal to be included in
the Company's Proxy Statement and proxy card for that meeting, the proposal must
be received at the Company's principal executive offices not later than
__________, 1999. As to any proposal that a shareholder intends to present to
shareholders without including it in the Company's Proxy Statement for the
Company's 1999 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, the proxies named in management's
proxy for that meeting will be entitled to exercise their discretionary
authority on that proposal unless the Company receives notice of the matter to
be proposed not later than _________, 1999. Even if proper notice is received on
or prior to __________, 1999, the proxies named in management's proxy for that
meeting may nevertheless exercise their discretionary authority with respect to
such matter by advising shareholders of such proposal and how they intend to
exercise their discretion to vote on such matter, unless the shareholder making
the proposal solicits proxies with respect to such proposal as required by Rule
14a- 4(c)(2) under the Exchange Act.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
The SEC allows the Company to "incorporate by reference" information
into its Proxy Statement, which means that the Company can disclose important
information by referring you to another document filed separately with the SEC.
The following documents are incorporated by reference in this Proxy Statement
and are deemed to be a part hereof:
(1) The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended January 3, 1999; and
(2) The Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated (date of
earliest event reported): January 19, 1999.
Any statement contained in a document incorporated by reference is
deemed to be modified or superseded for all purposes to the extent that a
statement contained in this Proxy Statement modifies or replaces such statement.
The Company also incorporates by reference the information contained in
all other documents the Company files with the SEC pursuant to Sections 13(a),
13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act after the date of this Proxy Statement
and before the Meeting. The information contained in any such document will be
considered part of this Proxy Statement from the date the document is filed and
will supplement or amend the information contained in this Proxy Statement.
The Company undertakes to provide by first class mail, without charge
and within one business day of receipt of any request, to any person to whom a
copy of this Proxy Statement has been delivered, a copy of any or all of the
documents referred to above which have been incorporated by reference in this
Proxy Statement, other than exhibits to such documents (unless such exhibits are
specifically incorporated by reference therein).
-79-
<PAGE>
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
The Company, Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders have filed with
the SEC a Rule 13e-3 Transaction Statement on Schedule 13E-3 under the Exchange
Act with respect to the Merger. This Proxy Statement does not contain all of the
information set forth in the Schedule 13E-3 and the exhibits to the Schedule
13E-3, certain parts of which are omitted, as permitted in accordance with the
rules and regulations of the SEC. The Company is subject to the informational
requirements of the Exchange Act and, in accordance therewith, files reports,
proxy statements and other information with the SEC. A copy of the written
report presented by Prudential Securities to the Special Committee, including
the opinion of Prudential Securities as to the fairness of the consideration to
be received in the Merger, was filed as an exhibit to the Schedule 13E-3.
Descriptions contained herein concerning any documents are not necessarily
complete and, in each instance, reference is made to the copy of such document
filed as an exhibit to the Schedule 13E-3. Each such statement is qualified in
its entirety. Copies of the Schedule 13E-3 and all exhibits to the Schedule
13E-3. are available for inspection and copying at the principal executive
offices of the Company during regular business hours by any interested
shareholder of the Company, or a representative who has been so designated in
writing, and may be inspected and copied, or obtained by mail, without charge,
by written request directed to us at the following address:
Robert S. Koebele, Vice President - Finance
Sbarro, Inc.
401 Broadhollow Road
Melville, New York 11747
The Company is currently subject to the information requirements of the
Exchange Act and in accordance therewith files periodic reports, proxy
statements and other information with the SEC relating to its business,
financial and other matters. Copies of such reports, proxy statements and other
information, as well as the Schedule 13E-3, may be copied (at prescribed rates)
at the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC at Room 1024, 450 Fifth
Street, N.W., Judiciary Plaza, Washington, D.C. 20549 and at the following
Regional Offices of the SEC: 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago,
Illinois 60661; and Seven World Trade Center, Suite 1300, New York, New York
10048. For further information concerning the SEC's public reference rooms, you
may call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Some of this information may also be
accessed on the World Wide Web through the SEC's Internet address at
"http://www.sec. gov." The Company's Common Stock is listed on the NYSE, and
materials also may be inspected at the NYSE's offices at 20 Broad Street, New
York, New York 10005.
OTHER MATTERS
At a special meeting, under the NYBCL and the Company's By-Laws, no
matter may be considered which is not set forth in the notice for such meeting.
As a result, no matter other than consideration of adoption of the Merger
Agreement may be brought before the Meeting. If any other matters or motions
should properly come before the Meeting, the persons named in the Proxy intend
to vote thereon in accordance with their discretion on such matters or motions,
including any matters or motions dealing with the conduct of the Meeting.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
JOSEPH SBARRO,
Secretary
________, 1999
-80-
<PAGE>
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Financial Statements Page
-------------------- ----
Report of Independent Public Accountants F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets at January 3, 1999 and
December 28, 1997 F-3
Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the
years in the three-year period ended January 3, 1999 F-5
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for each of
the years in the three-year period ended January 3, 1999 F-7
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the
years in the three-year period ended January 3, 1999 F-8
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-10
F-1
<PAGE>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
----------------------------------------
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
of Sbarro, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Sbarro, Inc. (a
New York corporation) and subsidiaries as of January 3, 1999 and December 28,
1997, and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders' equity
and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended January 3, 1999.
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based
on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of Sbarro, Inc. and subsidiaries
as of January 3, 1999 and December 28, 1997, and the results of their operations
and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended January 3,
1999, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
/s/ Arthur Andersen LLP
New York, New York
February 10, 1999
F-2
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
(In thousands)
--------------------------------------------------------------
January 3, 1999 December 28, 1997
----------------------- --------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $150,472 $119,810
Marketable securities - 7,500
Receivables:
Franchisees 1,342 810
Other 2,185 1,565
------------ -----------
3,527 2,375
------------ -----------
Inventories 3,122 2,962
Prepaid expenses 1,291 1,768
------------ -----------
Total current assets 158,412 134,415
Property and equipment, net (Notes 3 and 10) 138,126 136,798
Other assets, net 6,630 7,436
------------ -----------
$303,168 $278,649
============ ===========
</TABLE>
(continued)
F-3
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(In thousands)
----------------------------------------------------------
January 3, 1999 December 28, 1997
---------------------- --------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 7,122 $10,086
Accrued expenses (Note 4) 25,764 26,025
Dividend payable - 5,521
Income taxes (Note 5) 4,146 4,777
---------- ----------
Total current liabilities 37,032 46,409
Defered income taxes (Note 5) 9,219 11,801
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 6 and 7)
Shareholder's equity (Note 9):
Preferred stock, $1 par value: authorized
1,000,000 shares; none issued
Common stock, $.01 par value; authorized
40,000,000 shares; 20,531,643 shares
issued and outstanding at January 3, 1999
and 20,446,654 shares at December 28, 1997 205 204
Additional paid-in capital 34,587 32,444
Retained earnings 222,125 187,791
---------- ----------
256,917 220,439
---------- ----------
$303,168 $278,649
========== ==========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements
F-4
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands, except share data)
-------------------------------------------------------
For the Years Ended
-------------------------------------------------------
January 3, December 28, December 29,
1999 1997 1996
--------- ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues:
Restaurant sales $361,534 $337,723 $319,315
Franchise related income 8 578 7,360 6,375
Interest income 5,120 4,352 3,798
---------- ---------- ----------
Total revenues 375,232 349,435 329,488
---------- ---------- ----------
Costs and expenses:
Cost of food and paper products 76,572 69,469 68,668
Restaurant operating expenses:
Payroll and other employee benefits 93,367 84,910 78,258
Occupancy and other expenses 101,013 93,528 85,577
Depreciation and amortization 22,429 23,922 22,910
General and administrative 19,708 17,762 14,940
Provision for unit closings (Note 10) 2,515 3,300 -
Terminated transaction costs (Note 6) 986 - -
Litigation settlement and related
costs (Note 7) 3,544 - -
Loss on sale of land to be sold (Note 3) 1,075 - -
Other income (2,680) (1,653) (1,171)
---------- ---------- ----------
Total costs and expenses 318,529 291,238 269,182
---------- ---------- ----------
Income before income taxes and
cumulative effect of change in method
of accounting for start-up costs 56,703 58,197 60,306
Income taxes (Note 5) 21,547 22,115 22,916
---------- ---------- ----------
Income before cumulative effect
of accounting change 35,156 36,082 37,390
Cumulative effect of change in method
of accounting for start-up costs, net of
income taxes of $504 (822) - -
---------- ---------- ----------
Net income $34,334 $36,082 $37,390
========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
F-5
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands, except share data)
--------------------------------------------------------
For the Years Ended
--------------------------------------------------------
January 3, December 28, December 29,
1999 1997 1996
--------- ----------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share information:
Net income per share:
Basic:
Income before accounting change $1.71 $1.77 $1.84
Accounting change (.04) - -
------- -------- --------
Net income $1.67 $1.77 $1.84
======= ======== ========
Diluted:
Income before accounting change $1.71 $1.76 $1.83
Accounting change (.04) - -
------- -------- --------
Net Injcome $1.67 $1.76 $1.83
======= ======== ========
Shares used in computing net income per share:
Basic 20,516,890 20,426,678 20,369,128
========== ========== ==========
Diluted 20,583,367 20,504,303 20,404,620
========== ========== ==========
Dividends declared (Note 11) - $1.08 $0.92
========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements
F-6
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(In thousands, except share data)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Common stock
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional
Number of paid-in Retained
shares Amount capital earnings Total
--------- ------ ---------- -------- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at
December 31, 1995 20,345,483 $203 $30,330 $155,133 $185,666
Exercise of stock options 47,426 1 889 890
Net income 37,390 37,390
Dividends declared (18,746) (18,746)
------------ -------- ---------- ----------- ---------
Balance at
December 29, 1996 20,392,909 204 31,219 173,777 205,200
Exercise of stock options 53,745 1,225 1,225
Net income 36,082 36,082
Dividends declared (22,068) (22,068)
------------ -------- ---------- ----------- ----------
Balance at
December 28, 1997 20,446,654 204 32,444 187,791 220,439
Exercise of stock options 84,989 1 2,143 2,144
Net income 34,334 34,334
------------ -------- ---------- ----------- ----------
Balance at
January 3, 1999 20,531,643 $205 $34,587 $222,125 $256,917
============ ======== ========== =========== ==========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements
F-7
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
-----------------------------------------------------
For the Years Ended
-----------------------------------------------------
January 3, December 28, December 29,
1999 1997 1996
--------- ----------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Operating activities:
Net income $34,334 $36,082 $37,390
Adjustments to reconcile net
income to net cash provided
by operating activities:
Cumulative effect of change in method
of accounting for start-up costs 822
Depreciation and amortization 22,429 23,922 22,910
Decrease in deferred income taxes (2,078) (1,844) (442)
Provision for unit closings 2,515 3,300
Loss on sale of land to be sold 1,075
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
(Increase) decrease in receivables (1,152) (510) 739
Increase in inventories (160) (121) (78)
Decrease (increase) in prepaid
expenses 477 (359) 268
Increase in other assets (817) (2,468) (3,048)
(Decrease) increase in accounts payable
and accrued expenses (2,610) 3,534 (4,309)
(Decrease) increase) in income taxes
payable (631) (510) 579
-------- -------- --------
Net cash provided by
operating activities 54,204 61,026 54,009
-------- -------- --------
</TABLE>
(continued)
F-8
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
(In thousands)
------------------------------------------------------
For the Years Ended
------------------------------------------------------
January 3, December 28, December 29,
1999 1997 1996
---------- ------------ -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Investing activities:
Proceeds from maturities of marketable
securities 7,500 2,500
Purchases of property and equipment (27,717) (28,556) (25,928)
Proceeds from disposition of property
and equipment 52 34 266
--------- ---------- ---------
Net cash used in investing activities (20,165) (26,022) (25,662)
--------- ---------- ---------
Financing activities:
Proceeds from exercise of stock
options 2,144 1,225 890
Cash dividends paid (5,521) (21,237) (17,920)
--------- ---------- ---------
Net cash used in
financing activities (3,377) (20,012) (17,030)
--------- ---------- ---------
Increase in cash and cash
equivalents 30,662 14,992 11,317
Cash and cash equivalents at
beginning of year 119,810 104,818 93,501
--------- ---------- ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end
of year $150,472 $119,810 $104,818
========= ========== =========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements
F-9
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. Summary of significant accounting policies:
Basis of financial statement presentation:
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Sbarro,
Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (together, the "Company") and
the accounts of its joint ventures. All intercompany accounts and
transactions have been eliminated.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that may affect the amounts reported in the financial
statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from
those estimates.
Cash equivalents:
All highly liquid debt instruments with a maturity of three months or
less at the time of purchase are considered to be cash equivalents.
Marketable securities:
The Company had classified its investments in marketable securities as
"held to maturity". These investments were stated at amortized cost,
which approximated market, and were comprised primarily of direct
obligations of the U.S. Government and its agencies. All previous
investments in marketable securities matured during fiscal 1998.
Inventories:
Inventories, consisting primarily of food, beverages and paper
supplies, are stated at cost which is determined by the first-in,
first-out method.
Property and equipment and depreciation:
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is provided for
by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the
assets. Amortization of leasehold improvements is provided for by the
straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or
the lease term, whichever is shorter. One-half year of depreciation and
amortization is recorded in the year in which the restaurant commences
operations.
F-10
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued):
Deferred charges:
The Company accounts for pre-opening and similar costs in accordance
with Statement of Position (SOP) 98-5 of the Accounting Standards
Executive Committee of the American Institute of Certified Public
Accountants which requires companies to write off all such costs, net
of tax benefit, as a "cumulative effect of accounting change" and to
expense all such costs as incurred in the future. In accordance with
its early application provisions, the Company implemented the SOP as of
the beginning of its 1998 fiscal year. Application of the SOP resulted
in a charge of $1,226,000 ($822,000 or $.04 basic and diluted earnings
per share after tax).
Comprehensive income:
In the first quarter of 1998, the Company adopted Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") 130, "Reporting Comprehensive
Income", which establishes new rules for the reporting of comprehensive
income and its components. The adoption of this statement had no impact
on the Company's net income or shareholders' equity. For the 1998, 1997
and 1996 fiscal years, the Company's operations did not give rise to
items includible in comprehensive income which were not already
included in net income. Therefore, the Company's comprehensive income
is the same as its net income for all periods presented.
Franchise related income:
Initial franchise fees are recorded as income as restaurants are opened
by the franchisee and all services have been substantially performed by
the Company. Development fees are amortized over the number of
restaurant openings covered under each development agreement. Royalty
and other fees from franchisees are accrued as earned. Revenues and
expenses related to construction of franchised restaurants are
recognized when contractual obligations are completed and the
restaurants are opened.
Stock based compensation plans:
In accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion ("APB") No. 25,
"Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related
interpretations, compensation cost for stock options is measured as the
excess, if any, of the quoted market price of the Company's stock at
the date of grant over the amount an employee must pay to acquire the
stock. (See Note 9).
Income taxes:
The Company files a consolidated Federal income tax return. Deferred
income taxes result primarily from differences between financial and
tax reporting of depreciation and amortization.
Accounting period:
The Company's fiscal year ends on the Sunday nearest to December 31.
The Company's 1998 fiscal year ended January 3, 1999 and contained 53
weeks. All other reported fiscal years contained 52 weeks.
F-11
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
1. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued):
Per share data:
The provisions of SFAS No. 128, "Earnings Per Share" became effective
for the Company's quarter and year ended December 28, 1997. SFAS No.
128 requires the presentation of both basic and diluted earnings per
share on the face of the income statement. SFAS No. 128 replaced
primary and fully diluted earnings per share with basic and diluted
earnings per share, respectively. Earnings per share is calculated
using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding
for the period, with basic earnings per share excluding, and diluted
earnings per share including, potentially dilutive securities, such as
stock options that could result in the issuance of common stock. The
number of shares of common stock subject to stock options included in
diluted earnings per share were 66,477 in 1998, 77,625 in 1997 and
35,492 in 1996.
Long-lived Assets:
SFAS No. 121 "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and
for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of" requires that long-lived
assets, certain identifiable intangibles and goodwill be reviewed for
impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that
the carrying amount of those assets may not be recoverable. SFAS No.
121 did not have a material effect on the Company's results of
operations or financial position in 1998, 1997 or 1996.
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
(In Thousands)
----------------------------------------------
For The Years Ended
----------------------------------------------
January 3, December 28, December 29,
1999 1997 1996
--------- ----------- -------------
Cash paid for:
Income taxes $24,235 $24,297 $23,143
======= ======= =======
F-12
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
2. Description of business:
The Company and its franchisees develop and operate family oriented
cafeteria style Italian restaurants principally under the "Sbarro" and
"Sbarro The Italian Eatery" names. The restaurants are located
throughout the United States and overseas, principally in shopping
malls and other high traffic locations.
The following sets forth the number of units in operation as of:
January 3, December 28, December 29,
1999 1997 1996
--------- ----------- -----------
Company-owned 630 623 597
Franchised 268 239 219
--- --- ---
898 862 816
=== === ===
3. Property and equipment:
(In thousands)
---------------------------------------------
January 3, December 28,
1999 1997
--------- -----------
Leasehold improvements $191,192 $168,581
Furniture, fixtures and equipment 107,891 97,688
Construction-in-progress (A) 2,662 20,096
-------- --------
301,745 286,365
Less accumulated depreciation and
amortization 163,619 149,567
-------- --------
$138,126 $136,798
======== ========
(A) During 1998 the Company recorded a charge of $1,075 before tax
($667 or $.03 basic and diluted earnings per share after tax) for the
difference between the carrying cost and proposed selling price of a
parcel of land being sold by the Company. As of December 28, 1997,
construction in progress includes $15,651 related to the acquisition
and improvement of the Company's new corporate headquarters.
4. Accrued expenses:
(In thousands)
----------------------------------------
January 3, December 28,
1999 1997
--------- -----------
Compensation $4,109 $5,051
Payroll and sales taxes 3,193 3,494
Rent 6,786 6,699
Provision for unit closings (Note 10) 2,867 4,351
Other 8,809 6,430
------- -------
$25,764 $26,025
======= =======
F-13
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
5. Income taxes:
(In Thousands)
---------------------------------------------------
For The Years Ended
---------------------------------------------------
January 3, December 28, December 29,
1999 1997 1996
--------- ----------- -----------
Federal:
Current $19,421 $19,868 $19,216
Deferred (2,209) (1,557) (322)
------- ------- -------
17,212 18,311 18,894
------- ------- -------
State and local:
Current 4,708 4,091 4,142
Deferred (373) (287) (120)
------- ------- -------
4,335 3,804 4,022
------- ------- -------
$21,547 $22,115 $22,916
======= ======= =======
Deferred income taxes are comprised of the following:
(In thousands)
------------------------------------------
January 3, December 28,
1999 1997
--------- -----------
Depreciation and amortization $15,805 $15,782
Deferred charges - 475
Other 101 60
------- -------
Gross deferred tax liabilities 15,906 16,317
------- -------
Accrued expenses (4,776) (2,431)
Deferred income (1,483) (1,949)
Other (428) (136)
------- -------
Gross deferred tax assets (6,687) (4,516)
------- -------
$9,219 $11,801
======= =======
F-14
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
5. Income taxes (continued):
Actual tax expense differs from "expected" tax expense (computed by
applying the Federal corporate rate of 35% for the years ended January
3, 1999, December 28, 1997, and December 29, 1996) as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(In Thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------
For The Years Ended
------------------------------------------------------------------
January 3, December 28, December 29,
1999 1997 1996
--------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Computed "expected" tax
expense $19,382 $20,369 $21,108
Increase (reduction) in income taxes resulting from:
State and local income taxes, net
of Federal income tax benefit 2,725 2,429 2,614
Tax exempt interest income (43) (59) (63)
Other, net (517) (624) (743)
------- ------- -------
$21,547 $22,115 $22,916
======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
Deferred income taxes are provided for temporary differences between
financial and tax reporting. These differences and the amount of the
related deferred tax benefit are as follows:
(In Thousands)
-----------------------------------------
For The Years Ended
-----------------------------------------
January 3, December 28, December 29,
1999 1997 1996
--------- ----------- -----------
Depreciation and amortization $(1,891) $(1,824) $(1,397)
Accrued expenses (261) (624) 1,791
Other (430) 604 (836)
------- ------- -------
$(2,582) $(1,844) $ (442)
======= ======= =======
F-15
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
6. Proposed merger:
On January 19, 1999, the Company entered into a merger agreement for
the merger of a company owned by members of the Sbarro family, the
Company's principal shareholders, with and into the Company in which
all outstanding Common Stock of the Company not owned by those
shareholders are to be converted into the right to receive $28.85 in
cash. The shares to be purchased comprise approximately 65.6% of the
Company's outstanding shares of Common Stock. In addition, all
outstanding stock options, including those held by those members of the
Sbarro family, will be terminated (see Note 9). For each such option,
the holder thereof will be paid the difference between $28.85 and the
exercise price per share, multiplied by the total number of shares of
Common Stock subject to such option.
The merger agreement contains certain conditions to closing, including,
among other things, (i) approval by a majority of the votes cast
(excluding votes cast by the Sbarro Family, abstentions and broker non-
votes) at a meeting of the Company's shareholders to be called to
consider adoption of the merger agreement, (ii) receipt of financing
for the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, (iii) the
continued suspension of dividends by the Company and (iv) the
settlement of shareholder class action lawsuits that have been filed
relating to the merger.
Following the Company's announcement of the proposal by members of the
Sbarro family for the merger, seven class action lawsuits were
instituted by shareholders against the Company, those members of the
Sbarro Family who are directors of the Company and all or some of the
other directors of the Company. While the complaints in each of the
lawsuits vary, in general, they allege that the directors breached
fiduciary duties, that the then proposed price of $27.50 to be paid to
shareholders other than the Sbarro Family was inadequate and that there
were inadequate procedural protections for those shareholders. Although
varying, the complaints seek, generally, a declaration of a breach of,
or an order requiring the defendants to carry out, their fiduciary
duties to the plaintiffs, damages in unspecified amounts alleged to be
caused to the plaintiffs, other relief (including injunctive relief or
rescission or rescissory damages if the transaction is consummated),
and costs and disbursements, including a reasonable allowance for
counsel fees and expenses.
On January 19, 1999, counsel for all of the plaintiffs and counsel for
all of the defendants entered into a Memorandum of Understanding
pursuant to which an agreement in principle to settle all of the
lawsuits was reached and the Sbarro Family agreed to an increase in the
merger consideration to $28.85 per share. The Memorandum of
Understanding states that plaintiffs' counsel intend to apply to the
Court for an award of attorneys' fees and disbursements in an amount of
no more than $2.1 million to be paid by the Company, which the
defendants have agreed not to oppose. The defendants are also
responsible for providing notice of the settlement to all class
members. The settlement would result in the complete discharge and bar
of all claims against, past, present and future officers and directors
of the Company and others associated with the merger with respect to
matters and issues of any kind that have been or could have been
asserted in these lawsuits. The settlement is subject to, among other
things, (i) completion of a formal stipulation of settlement, (ii)
certification of the lawsuits as a class action covering all record and
beneficial owners of the Common Stock during the period beginning on
November 25, 1998 through the effective date of the merger, (iii) court
approval of the settlement and (iv) consummation of the merger. It is a
condition to the Sbarro family's obligations under the merger agreement
that holders of no more than 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock request
exclusion from the settlement.
In connection with the termination of negotiations for the initial
proposal of the Company's acquisition of all shares of common stock not
owned by such members of the Sbarro family, in fiscal 1998, the Company
recorded a charge of $986,000 ($611,000 or $.03 basic and diluted
earnings per share after tax).
F-16
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
7. Commitments and contingencies:
Commitments:
The Company conducts all of its operations in leased facilities. Most
of the Company's restaurant leases provide for the payment of base
rents plus real estate taxes, utilities, insurance, common area charges
and certain other expenses, as well as contingent rents generally
ranging from 8% to 10% of net restaurant sales in excess of stipulated
amounts.
Rental expense under operating leases, including common area charges,
other expenses and additional amounts based on sales, are as follows:
(In thousands)
------------------------------------------
For the Years Ended
------------------------------------------
January 3, December 28, December 29,
1999 1997 1996
--------- ------------ ------------
Minimum rentals $43,387 $40,365 $36,383
Common area charges 13,314 12,541 11,303
Contingent rentals 3,011 2,910 2,819
------- ------- -------
$59,712 $55,816 $50,505
======= ======= =======
Future minimum rental and other payments required under non-cancelable
operating leases for Company- operated restaurants that were open on
January 3, 1999 and the existing leased administrative and support
function office (Note 8) are as follows (in thousands):
Years ending:
------------
January 2, 2000 $65,075
December 31, 2000 63,472
December 30, 2001 60,409
December 29, 2002 56,000
December 28, 2003 51,180
Later years 134,673
--------
$430,809
========
F-17
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
7. Commitments and contingencies (continued):
The Company is the principal lessee under operating leases for certain
franchised restaurants which are subleased to the franchisee.
Franchisees pay rent and related expenses directly to the landlord.
Future minimum rental payments required under these non-cancelable
operating leases for franchised restaurants that were open as of
January 3, 1999 are as follows (in thousands):
Years ending:
------------
January 2, 2000 $1,352
December 31, 2000 1,088
December 30, 2001 954
December 29, 2002 626
December 28, 2003 475
Later years 727
---------
$5,222
=========
As of February 10, 1999, future minimum rental payments required under
non-cancelable operating leases for restaurants which had not as yet
opened as of January 3, 1999 are as follows (in thousands):
Years ending:
------------
January 2, 2000 $1,537
December 31, 2000 2,023
December 30, 2001 2,026
December 29, 2002 1,931
December 28, 2003 2,053
Later years 10,923
--------
$20,493
========
The Company is a party to contracts aggregating $3,159,000 with respect
to the construction of restaurants. Payments of approximately $385,000
have been made on those contracts as of January 3, 1999.
One of the joint ventures in which the Company is a partner has entered
into a contract to purchase the land on which a restaurant is located,
at the end of its five year lease on such property in 2002, for
$950,000.
The Company is a guarantor of its pro rata interest (up to $4,400,000)
of a line of credit granted to one of the joint ventures in which the
Company is a partner.
F-18
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
7. Commitments and contingencies (continued):
Contingencies:
In December 1998, the Court approved, and Company completed, the
settlement of an action entitled Kenneth Hoffman and Gloria Curtis, on
behalf of themselves and all others similarly situated v. Sbarro, Inc.
that was pending in the United States District Court for the Southern
District of New York. The plaintiffs, former restaurant level
management employees, alleged that the Company required general
managers and co-managers to reimburse the Company for cash and certain
other shortages sustained by the Company and thereby lost their status
as managerial employees exempt from the overtime compensation
provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. The settlement resulted in
a one-time charge of $3,544,000 before tax or $2,197,000 ($.11 basic
and diluted earnings per share after tax) in fiscal 1998.
8. Transactions with related parties:
In May 1986, the Company entered into a fifteen year sublease with a
partnership owned by certain shareholders of the Company in Commack for
its present administrative and support function offices. For 1998 and
1997 and for each of the remaining years of the lease, the rent expense
is $337,000 per year. In 1996, the Company incurred rent expense for
such building of $298,000. Management believes that such rents are
comparable to the rents that would be charged by an unaffiliated third
party.
A member of the Board of Directors acts as a consultant to the Company
for which he received $140,400 in 1998, $116,400 in 1997 and $106,100
in 1996.
9. Stock options:
The Company's Board of Directors has adopted, and its shareholders have
approved, a 1991 Stock Incentive Plan (the "1991 Plan"), which replaced
the Company's 1985 Incentive Stock Option Plan, and a 1993 Non-Employee
Director Stock Option Plan (the "1993 Plan").
Under the 1991 Plan, the Company may grant, until February 2001,
incentive stock options and non-qualified stock options, alone or in
tandem with stock appreciation rights ("SARS"), to employees and
consultants of the Company and its subsidiaries. Options and SARs may
not be granted at exercise prices of less than 100% of the fair market
value of the Company's common stock on the date of grant. The Board of
Directors and the Board's Committee administering the 1991 Plan are
empowered to determine, within the limits of the 1991 Plan, the number
of shares subject to each option and SAR, the exercise price, and the
time period (which may not exceed ten years) and terms under which each
may be exercised.
The 1993 Plan provides for the automatic grant to each non-employee
director of an option to purchase 3,750 shares of common stock
following each annual shareholders' meeting. Each option has a ten year
term and is exercisable in full commencing one year after grant at 100%
of the fair market value of the Company's common stock on the date of
grant. In 1998, 1997 and 1996, each of the five non-employee directors
were granted options to purchase 3,750 shares at $ 24.06, $28.88 and
$26.88 per share, respectively. In 1997, options to purchase an
aggregate of 11,250 shares granted to a deceased director were
exercised at prices ranging from $21.50 to $23.71.
F-19
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
9. Stock options (continued):
A summary of the status of the Company's option plans is presented in
the table below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
--------------------- --------------------- --------------------
Weighted- Weighted- Weighted-
Average Average Average
Exercise Exercise Exercise
Shares Price Shares Price Shares Price
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Options outstanding,
beginning of period 1,638,339 $25.85 934,836 $25.57 717,712 $24.97
Granted 23,750 $24.22 777,750 $25.96 378,750 $25.55
Exercised (84,989) $25.23 (53,745) $22.78 (47,426) $18.24
Canceled or expired (16,668) $25.15 (20,502) $24.66 (114,200) $24.84
---------------------- --------------------- ---------------------
Options outstanding,
end of period 1,560,432 $25.87 1,638,339 $25.85 934,836 $25.57
Options exercisable,
end of period 617,515 $25.99 573,880 $26.05 534,214 $25.89
</TABLE>
Of the options outstanding at January 3, 1999, options to purchase
78,182 shares had exercise prices ranging from $15.17 to $21.83 per
share, with a weighted average exercise price of $21.36 per share and a
weighted average remaining contractual life of 5.53 years, of which
options to purchase 76,515 shares were exercisable, with a weighted
average exercise price of $21.36 per share. The remaining options to
purchase 1,482,250 shares had exercise prices ranging from $23.05 to
$28.88 per share, with a weighted average exercise price of $26.11 per
share and a weighted average remaining contractual life of 6.8 years,
of which options to purchase 541,000 shares are exercisable, with a
weighted average exercise price of $26.65 per share. At January 3,
1999, there were an aggregate of 2,054,730 shares available for option
grants under the 1991 and 1993 Plans.
The foregoing table includes options granted in 1997 under the 1991
Plan to the Company's Chairman of the Board and President to purchase
100,000 and 150,000 shares at $25.13 and $28.88 per share,
respectively, and to the Company's Vice Chairman of the Board and
Senior Executive Vice President to purchase 100,000 and 100,000 shares,
respectively, at $25.13 per share; options granted in 1996 to the
Company's Chairman of the Board and President and Senior Executive Vice
President to purchase 100,000 and 50,000 shares, respectively, at
$24.75 per share; and options granted in 1993 under the 1991 Plan to
the Company's Chairman of the Board and President, Vice Chairman of the
Board and Senior Executive Vice President and one non-employee director
to purchase 120,000, 90,000, 75,000 and 37,500 shares, respectively, at
$27.09 per share. Each such option was granted at an exercise price
equal to the fair market value of the Company's common stock on the
date of grant and is exercisable for 10 years from the date of grant.
Such options remain unexercised.
In addition to the foregoing, in 1990, shareholder approved options
were granted to the Company's Chairman of the Board and President, Vice
Chairman of the Board and Senior Executive Vice President to purchase
150,000, 75,000 and 75,000 shares, respectively, at $20.67 per share,
the fair market value of the Company's common stock on the date of
grant, for a period of 10 years from the date of grant. Such options
remain unexercised.
See Note 6 for the effect of the proposed acquisition of all shares not
owned by the Sbarro family on the options outstanding as of January 3,
1999.
F-20
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
9. Stock options (continued):
The Company has adopted the pro forma disclosure provisions of SFAS No.
123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation". Accordingly, no
compensation cost has been recognized for the stock option plans. Had
compensation cost for the Company's stock option plans been determined
under SFAS No. 123, the Company's net income and earnings per share
would have approximated the pro forma amounts below:
(In thousands, except per share data)
Net income: 1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
As Reported 34,334 36,082 37,390
====== ====== ======
Pro Forma 33,770 35,089 37,160
====== ====== ======
Per share information:
Net income per share (as reported):
Basic $1.67 $1.77 $1.84
===== ===== =====
Diluted $1.67 $1.76 $1.83
===== ===== =====
Net income per share (pro forma):
Basic $1.65 $1.72 $1.82
===== ===== =====
Diluted $1.64 $1.71 $1.82
===== ===== =====
The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant
using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following
assumptions:
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
Expected life (years) .5 1.5 4
Interest rate 5.15% 5.82% 6.53%
Volatility 31% 21% 28%
Dividend yield 0.00% 4.00% 3.50%
Weighted average fair value
of options granted $2.38 $2.79 $5.75
===== ===== =====
10. Provision for unit closings:
A provision for restaurant closings of $2,515,000 ($1,559,000 or $.08
basic and diluted earnings per share after tax) was established in
fiscal 1998 relating to the closing of 20 restaurant locations.
A provision for restaurant closings in the amount of $3,300,000
($2,046,000 or $.10 basic and diluted earnings per share after tax)
relating to the Company's investment in one of its joint ventures was
established in 1997 for the closing of certain of the joint venture's
units.
11. Dividends:
In 1997 and 1996, the Company declared quarterly dividends of $.27 per
share and $.23 per share, respectively, aggregating $1.08 per share and
$.92 per share for the respective years. Dividends were thereafter
suspended pending consideration by the Company of proposals by certain
members of the Sbarro family for the Company's acquisition of all
Common Stock not owned by them and consideration of other strategic
alternatives.
F-21
<PAGE>
SBARRO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
12. Quarterly financial information (unaudited):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(In thousands, except share data)
First Second Third Fourth
Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter (b)
------- ------- ------- ----------
Fiscal year 1998
----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues $101,883 $78,844 $85,907 $108,598
Gross profit (a) 77,463 60,142 65,035 82,322
Net income (b) 7,138 5,107 7,081 15,008
======== ======= ======= ========
Per share information:
Net income per share:
Basic $.35 $.25 $.34 $.73
==== ==== ==== ====
Diluted $.35 $.25 $.34 $.73
==== ==== ==== ====
Shares used in computation of net income per share:
Basic 20,491,939 20,526,633 20,528,309 20,529,006
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Diluted 20,665,846 20,605,477 20,530,983 20,539,488
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Fiscal year 1997
Revenues $95,364 $75,301 $82,678 $96,092
Gross profit (a) 73,324 57,976 63,314 73,640
Net income (c) 7,885 6,733 9,206 12,258
======= ======= ======= =======
Per share information:
Net income per share:
Basic $.39 $.33 $.45 $.60
==== ==== ==== ====
Diluted (d) $.39 $.33 $.45 $.60
==== ==== ==== ====
Shares used in computation of net income per share:
Basic 20,401,538 20,428,711 20,440,596 20,444,678
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Diluted 20,454,534 20,599,676 20,526,757 20,529,233
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
</TABLE>
(a) Gross profit represents the difference between restaurant
sales and the cost of food and paper products.
(b) See Notes 1, 3, 6, 7 and 10 for information regarding unusual
charges.
(c) See Note 10.
(d) The sum of the quarters does not equal the full year per share
amounts included in the accompanying statement of income due to the
effect of the weighted average number of shares outstanding during
the fiscal year as compared to the quarters.
F-22
<PAGE>
ANNEX 1
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
AMONG
SBARRO MERGER LLC,
SBARRO, INC.,
Mario Sbarro,
Joseph Sbarro,
Joseph Sbarro (1994) Family Limited Partnership,
Anthony Sbarro
AND
Mario Sbarro and Franklin Montgomery, not individually but
as trustees under that certain Trust Agreement dated April
28, 1984 for the benefit of
Carmela Sbarro and her descendants
Dated as of January 19, 1999
<PAGE>
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION Page
PARTIES.......................................................................1
PREAMBLE......................................................................1
ARTICLE I
THE MERGER
1.1 The Merger...........................................................1
1.2 Certificate of Incorporation.........................................2
1.3 By-Laws..............................................................2
1.4 Directors and Officers...............................................2
1.5 Effective Time.......................................................2
ARTICLE II
CONVERSION OF SHARES
2.1 Company Common Stock.................................................2
2.2 Mergeco Membership Interests.........................................3
2.3 Exchange of Shares...................................................3
2.4 Stock Option Plans...................................................4
2.5 Withholding Rights...................................................5
ARTICLE III
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE COMPANY
3.1 Organization.........................................................5
3.2 Capitalization.......................................................5
3.3 Authorization of this Agreement; Recommendation of Merger............6
3.4 Governmental Filings; No Conflicts...................................6
-i-
<PAGE>
ARTICLE IV
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF MERGECO
AND THE CONTINUING SHAREHOLDERS
4.1 Organization.........................................................7
4.2 Membership Interests.................................................7
4.3 Authorization of this Agreement......................................8
4.4 Governmental Filings; No Violations..................................8
4.5 Financing Arrangements...............................................8
ARTICLE V
COVENANTS
5.1 Conduct of the Business of the Company...............................9
5.2 Activities of Mergeco................................................9
5.3 Access to Information................................................9
5.4 Financing...........................................................10
5.5 Shareholders' Meeting...............................................10
5.6 Proxy Statement and Schedule 13E-3..................................10
5.7 Best Efforts........................................................11
5.8 Consents............................................................12
5.9 Public Announcements................................................12
5.10 Indemnification.....................................................12
5.11 No Solicitation.....................................................15
5.12 Transfer Taxes......................................................15
ARTICLE VI
CLOSING CONDITIONS
6.1 Conditions to the Obligations of Each Party.........................16
6.2 Conditions to the Obligations of Mergeco............................16
6.3 Conditions to the Obligations of the Company........................18
ARTICLE VII
CLOSING
7.1 Time and Place......................................................19
7.2 Filings at the Closing..............................................19
-ii-
<PAGE>
ARTICLE VIII
TERMINATION AND ABANDONMENT
8.1 Termination.........................................................19
8.2 Procedure and Effect of Termination.................................20
ARTICLE IX
MISCELLANEOUS
9.1 Amendment; Modification and Approval of Special Committee...........21
9.2 Waiver of Compliance; Consents......................................21
9.3 Non-Survival of Representations and Warranties......................21
9.4 Notices.............................................................21
9.5 Assignment; Parties in Interest.....................................23
9.6 Costs and Expenses..................................................23
9.7 Specific Performance................................................24
9.8 Governing Law.......................................................24
9.9 Counterparts........................................................24
9.10 Interpretation......................................................24
9.11 Entire Agreement....................................................24
9.12 Severability........................................................25
9.13 Headings............................................................25
SIGNATURES...................................................................26
-iii-
<PAGE>
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER (this "Agreement"), dated as of
January 19, 1999, among Sbarro Merger LLC, a New York limited liability company
("Mergeco"), Sbarro, Inc., a New York corporation (the "Company"), and Mario
Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro (1994) Family Limited Partnership, Anthony
Sbarro, and Mario Sbarro and Franklin Montgomery, not individually but as
trustees under that certain Trust Agreement dated April 28, 1984 for the benefit
of Carmela Sbarro and her descendants (collectively the "Continuing
Shareholders").
WHEREAS, the Continuing Shareholders have proposed to the
Board of Directors of the Company that Mergeco merge with and into the Company
(the "Merger"), with the holders of all of the outstanding shares of Common
Stock, par value $.01 per share, of the Company (the "Common Stock") not
currently owned by the Continuing Shareholders receiving a cash payment in
exchange for their shares of Common Stock;
WHEREAS, a Special Committee of the Board of Directors of the
Company (the "Special Committee") has determined that the Merger is fair to, and
in the best interests of, the Public Shareholders (as defined in Section
2.1(a)), and has recommended the approval and adoption of this Agreement to the
Board of Directors of the Company;
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Company and the members
of Mergeco have approved and adopted this Agreement and approved the Merger upon
the terms and subject to the conditions set forth herein;
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Company believes it is
in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders to consummate the
Merger upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement;
and
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the representations,
warranties and agreements herein contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
THE MERGER
1.1 The Merger. (a) As promptly as practicable following the
satisfaction or waiver of the conditions set forth in Article VI hereof, and in
accordance with the provisions of this Agreement and the provisions of the New
York Business Corporation Law (the "NYBCL") and the New York Limited Liability
Company Law (the "NYLLCL"), the parties hereto shall cause Mergeco to be merged
with and into the Company. The Company shall be the surviving corporation
(hereinafter sometimes called the "Surviving Corporation") and shall continue
its corporate existence under the laws of the State of New York. At the
Effective Time (as hereinafter defined), the separate existence of Mergeco shall
cease.
-1-
<PAGE>
(b) The Merger shall have the effects specified in Section 906 of the
NYBCL and Section 1004 of the NYLLCL. From and after the Effective Time, the
Surviving Corporation shall possess all the rights, privileges, immunities,
powers and purposes of Mergeco and the Company and shall assume and become
liable for all the liabilities, obligations and penalties of the Company and
Mergeco.
1.2 Certificate of Incorporation. The Certificate of Incorporation of
the Company, as amended and in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time,
shall be the Certificate of Incorporation of the Surviving Corporation until
thereafter amended in accordance with the provisions thereof and the NYBCL.
1.3 By-Laws. The By-Laws of the Company in effect immediately prior to
the Effective Time shall be the By-Laws of the Surviving Corporation until
thereafter amended, altered or repealed as provided therein and in the NYBCL.
1.4 Directors and Officers. The directors and officers of the Company
immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be the directors and officers,
respectively, of the Surviving Corporation, each to hold office in accordance
with the Certificate of Incorporation and the By-Laws of the Surviving
Corporation.
1.5 Effective Time. As soon as practicable following the Closing (as
defined in Section 7.1 of this Agreement), and provided that this Agreement
shall not have been terminated pursuant to Article VIII hereof, the Company and
Mergeco will cause certificates of merger (the "Certificates of Merger"),
together with any other documents required by law to effectuate the Merger, to
be executed, verified and delivered for filing by the New York Department of
State as provided in Section 904-a of the NYBCL and Section 1003 of the NYLLCL,
to the extent required. The Merger shall become effective on the date on which
the second of the two Certificates of Merger is filed by the New York Department
of State or such other date as shall be specified in the Certificates of Merger.
The date and time when the Merger shall become effective is herein referred to
as the "Effective Time."
ARTICLE II
CONVERSION OF SHARES
2.1 Company Common Stock. (a) Each share of Common Stock issued and
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time, except for (i) shares of
Common Stock then owned of record by Mergeco or the Continuing Shareholders and
(ii) shares of Common Stock held in the Company's treasury, if any, shall, by
virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of the holder thereof,
be converted into the right to receive $28.85 in cash, payable to the holder
thereof, without interest thereon, upon surrender of the certificate
representing such share of Common Stock (such cash amount is referred to herein
as the "Merger Consideration"; the shares of Common Stock for
-2-
<PAGE>
which the Merger Consideration is to be paid are referred to herein as the
"Public Shares"; and the holders thereof are referred to herein as the "Public
Shareholders").
(b) Each share of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior
to the Effective Time that is then owned of record by Mergeco or the Continuing
Shareholders shall, by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part
of the holder thereof, be canceled and retired and cease to exist, and no
payment shall be made with respect thereto.
(c) Each share of Common Stock issued and held in the Company's
treasury immediately prior to the Effective Time, if any, shall, by virtue of
the Merger, be canceled and retired and cease to exist, and no payment shall be
made with respect thereto.
(d) At the Effective Time, the Public Shareholders shall cease to have
any rights as shareholders of the Company except the right to receive the Merger
Consideration.
2.2 Mergeco Membership Interests. Each membership unit of Mergeco (the
"Mergeco Membership Interests") issued and outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time shall, by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part
of the holder thereof, be converted into one share of Common Stock of the
Surviving Corporation. The Common Stock issued pursuant to this Section 2.2
shall, immediately after the Effective Time, constitute the only issued or
outstanding shares of capital stock of the Surviving Corporation.
2.3 Exchange of Shares. (a) As of or as soon as reasonably practicable
following the Effective Time, the Surviving Corporation shall deposit in trust
with a bank or trust company that has offices in New York City and is designated
by the Surviving Corporation (the "Paying Agent"), cash in an aggregate amount
equal to the product of (x) the number of Public Shares issued and outstanding
immediately prior to the Effective Time and (y) the Merger Consideration (such
amount being hereinafter referred to as the "Exchange Fund"). The Paying Agent
shall, pursuant to irrevocable instructions, make the payments provided for in
Section 2.1(a) of this Agreement out of the Exchange Fund. The Paying Agent
shall invest the Exchange Fund, as the Surviving Corporation directs, in direct
obligations of the United States of America, obligations for which the full
faith and credit of the United States of America is pledged to provide for the
payment of all principal and interest or commercial paper obligations receiving
the highest rating from either Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or Standard &
Poor's, a division of The McGraw Hill Companies, or a combination thereof,
provided that, in any such case, no such instrument shall have a maturity
exceeding three months. Any net profit resulting from, or interest or income
produced by, such investments shall be payable to the Surviving Corporation. The
Surviving Corporation shall replace any monies lost through any investment made
pursuant to this Section 2.3(a). The Exchange Fund shall not be used for any
other purpose except as provided in this Agreement.
(b) Promptly after the Effective Time, the Surviving Corporation shall
cause the Paying Agent to mail to each record holder (as of the Effective Time)
of an outstanding certificate or certificates that immediately prior to the
Effective Time represented Public Shares (the "Certificates")
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a form letter of transmittal (which shall specify that delivery shall be
effected, and risk of loss and title to the Certificates shall pass, only upon
proper delivery of the Certificates to the Paying Agent) and instructions for
use in effecting the surrender of the Certificates for payment therefor. Upon
surrender to the Paying Agent of a Certificate, together with a properly
completed and executed letter of transmittal, the holder of such Certificate
shall be entitled to receive in exchange therefor cash in an amount equal to the
product of the number of Public Shares represented by such Certificate and the
Merger Consideration, less any applicable withholding tax, and such Certificate
shall forthwith be canceled. In the event any Certificate shall have been lost
or destroyed, the Paying Agent, subject to such other reasonable conditions as
the Surviving Corporation may impose (including the posting of an indemnity bond
or other surety in favor of the Surviving Corporation with respect to the
Certificates alleged to be lost or destroyed), shall be authorized to accept an
affidavit from the record holder of such Certificate in a form reasonably
satisfactory to the Surviving Corporation. No interest shall be paid or accrued
on the cash payable upon the surrender of the Certificates. If payment is to be
made to a person other than the person in whose name the Certificate surrendered
is registered, it shall be a condition of payment that the Certificate so
surrendered shall be properly endorsed or otherwise in proper form for transfer
and that the person requesting such payment shall pay any transfer or other tax
required by reason of the payment to a person other than the registered holder
of the Certificate surrendered or establish to the satisfaction of the Paying
Agent and the Surviving Corporation that such tax has been paid or is not
applicable. Until surrendered in accordance with the provisions of this Section
2.3, each Certificate shall represent for all purposes only the right to receive
the Merger Consideration in cash multiplied by the number of Public Shares
evidenced by such Certificate, without any interest thereon.
(c) After the Effective Time, there shall be no transfers on the stock
transfer books of the Surviving Corporation of Public Shares that were
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time.
(d) Any portion of the Exchange Fund that remains unclaimed by the
Public Shareholders of the Company for one year after the Effective Time
(including any interest, dividends, earnings or distributions received with
respect thereto) shall be repaid to the Surviving Corporation, upon demand. Any
Public Shareholders who have not theretofore satisfied the provisions of Section
2.3(b) shall thereafter look only to the Surviving Corporation for payment of
their claim for the Merger Consideration, without any interest thereon, but
shall have no greater rights against the Surviving Corporation than may be
accorded to general creditors of the Surviving Corporation under New York law.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the Paying Agent nor any party hereto
shall be liable to any holder of Certificates formerly representing shares of
Common Stock for any amount paid with respect thereof to a public official
pursuant to any applicable abandoned property, escheat or similar law.
2.4 Stock Option Plans. At the Effective Time, all outstanding Stock
Options (as defined herein), including Stock Options held by the Continuing
Shareholders, shall be terminated and, promptly following the Effective Time,
the Surviving Corporation shall, to the extent permitted by the applicable Stock
Option Plan (as defined herein) or agreement between the Company and the
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optionee related to the applicable Stock Option, subject to Section 2.5, pay to
the holder of each such Stock Option, in cash and as full settlement for such
Stock Option, whether or not then exercisable, the Stock Option Buyout Amount
(as defined herein) for the shares of Common Stock subject to such Stock Option.
As used herein: (i) with respect to any Stock Option, the "Stock Option Buyout
Amount" shall mean (A) the excess, if any, of the Merger Consideration over the
exercise price per share of such Stock Option, (B) multiplied by the total
number of shares of Common Stock subject to such Stock Option; (ii) the "1991
Plan" shall mean the Company's 1991 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended to date;
(iii) the "1993 Plan" shall mean the Company's 1993 Non-Employee Director Stock
Option Plan, as amended to date (the 1991 Plan and the 1993 Plan being
collectively referred to herein as the "Stock Option Plans"); and (iv) "Stock
Options" shall mean all options to purchase shares of Common Stock under the
Company's 1985 Incentive Stock Option Plan, the 1991 Plan and the 1993 Plan and
options held by any of the Continuing Shareholders that were not granted under
the Stock Option Plans.
2.5 Withholding Rights. The Surviving Corporation and the Paying Agent
shall be entitled to deduct and withhold from the amounts payable (including the
Merger Consideration) pursuant to this Agreement to any Public Shareholder or
holder of Stock Options such amounts as Mergeco, the Surviving Corporation or
the Paying Agent is required to deduct and withhold with respect to the making
of such payment under applicable tax law. To the extent that amounts are so
deducted and withheld by Mergeco, the Surviving Corporation or the Paying Agent,
such amounts shall be treated for all purposes of this Agreement as having been
paid to the relevant Public Shareholder or holder of Stock Options.
ARTICLE III
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE COMPANY
The Company represents and warrants to Mergeco as follows:
3.1 Organization. The Company is a corporation validly existing and in
good standing under the laws of the State of New York and has all requisite
power (corporate or otherwise) and authority to own, lease and operate its
properties and to conduct its business as now being conducted, except where the
failure to be so organized, existing and in good standing or to have such power
and authority would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material
adverse effect on the business, condition (financial or otherwise), properties,
assets or prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries taken as a whole (a
"Material Adverse Effect"). The Company was formed under the name Sbarro
Licensing Inc.
3.2 Capitalization. The authorized capital stock of the Company
consists of (i) 40,000,000 shares of Common Stock, of which, on January 15,
1999, there were 20,531,977 shares issued and outstanding, which number of
outstanding shares may change by virtue of the exercise of outstanding Stock
Options, and (ii) 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $1.00 per
share, of which there are no shares issued and outstanding. Except for the Stock
Option Plans, there are
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not now any existing stock option or similar plans and, except for currently
outstanding Stock Options, there are not now any outstanding options, warrants,
calls, subscriptions, preemptive rights or other rights or other agreements or
commitments whatsoever obligating the Company to issue, transfer, deliver or
sell, or cause to be issued, transferred, delivered or sold, any shares of
capital stock or equity interests, as the case may be, of the Company or
obligating the Company to grant, extend or enter into any such agreement or
commitment.
3.3 Authorization of this Agreement; Recommendation of Merger. (a) The
Company has all requisite corporate power and authority to execute and deliver
this Agreement and, subject to approval by the shareholders of the Company, to
consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. The execution and delivery of
this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby have
been duly and validly authorized and approved by the Company's Board of
Directors and, except for the adoption of this Agreement by the shareholders of
the Company, no other corporate proceedings on the part of the Company are
necessary to authorize this Agreement or consummate the transactions
contemplated hereby. This Agreement has been duly and validly executed and
delivered by the Company and, subject only to adoption hereof by its
shareholders (and assuming the due authorization, execution and delivery hereof
by Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders), this Agreement constitutes a valid
and binding agreement of the Company, enforceable against the Company in
accordance with its terms.
(b) The Special Committee has received the opinion of Prudential
Securities Incorporated ("Prudential Securities") dated January 19, 1999 that,
as of the date of such opinion, the Merger Consideration to be received by the
Public Shareholders pursuant to this Agreement is fair, from a financial point
of view, to the Public Shareholders.
(c) The Special Committee (at a meeting duly called and held at which a
quorum was present) has determined that the Merger is fair to, and in the best
interests of, the Public Shareholders, and has recommended the adoption of this
Agreement to the Board of Directors of the Company, subject to the right of the
Special Committee to withdraw, modify or amend such recommendation if the
Special Committee determines, in good faith after consultation with legal
counsel, that failure to take such action would be reasonably likely to result
in a breach of its fiduciary duties to the Company's shareholders under
applicable law.
(d) The Board of Directors of the Company (at a meeting duly called and
held at which a quorum was present) has determined that the Merger is fair to,
and in the best interests of, the shareholders of the Company, has adopted this
Agreement and has recommended the adoption of this Agreement by the shareholders
of the Company, subject to the right of the Board of Directors of the Company to
withdraw, modify or amend such recommendation to the extent that the Board of
Directors of the Company determines, in good faith after consultation with legal
counsel, that failure to take such action would be reasonably likely to result
in a breach of its fiduciary duties to the Company's shareholders under
applicable law.
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3.4 Governmental Filings; No Conflicts. Except for (i) filings required
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and
regulations promulgated thereunder (the "Exchange Act"), (ii) the filing and
recordation of appropriate merger documents as required by the NYBCL and, if
applicable, the laws of other states in which the Company is qualified to do
business, (iii) filings, if any, under securities or blue sky laws or takeover
statutes, (iv) filings to fulfill the delisting requirements of the New York
Stock Exchange, (v) regulatory filings relating to the operation of the
Company's business, (vi) filings in connection with any applicable transfer or
other taxes in any applicable jurisdiction and (vii) filings under applicable
alcohol and beverage laws and regulations, no filing with, and no permit,
authorization, consent or approval of, any public body or authority is necessary
for the consummation by the Company of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement, the failure to make or obtain which would have, individually or in
the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect or a material adverse effect on the
ability of the Company to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby.
Neither the execution and delivery of this Agreement nor the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby nor compliance by the Company with any of the
provisions hereof will (x) conflict with or result in any violation of any
provision of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company or By-Laws of the
Company, as in effect on the date hereof, or (y) assuming the truth of the
representations and warranties of Mergeco contained herein and its compliance
with all agreements contained herein and assuming the due making of all filings
and obtaining all permits, authorizations, consents and approvals referred to in
the preceding sentence, violate any statute, rule, regulation, order,
injunction, writ or decree of any public body or authority by which the Company
or any of its assets or properties is bound, excluding from the foregoing clause
(y) conflicts, violations, breaches or defaults which, either individually or in
the aggregate, would not have a Material Adverse Effect or a material adverse
effect on the Company's ability to consummate the transactions contemplated
hereby.
ARTICLE IV
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF MERGECO
AND THE CONTINUING SHAREHOLDERS
Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders, jointly and severally,
represent and warrant to the Company as follows:
4.1 Organization. Mergeco is a limited liability company duly
organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of
New York and has all requisite power and authority to consummate the
transactions contemplated hereby. Mergeco was formed solely for the purpose of
engaging in the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. As of the date
hereof and the Effective Time, except for obligations or liabilities incurred in
connection with its organization and the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement and, except for this Agreement, its Operating Agreement and any other
agreements or arrangements contemplated by this Agreement or in furtherance of
the transactions contemplated hereby, Mergeco has not and will not have
incurred, directly or indirectly, any obligations or liabilities or engaged in
any business activities of any type or kind whatsoever or entered into any
agreements or arrangements with any person whatsoever.
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4.2 Membership Interests. All of the outstanding Mergeco Membership
Interests are owned by the Continuing Shareholders. There are not now, and, at
the Effective Time there will not be, any other outstanding membership interests
or rights or other agreements or commitments whatsoever obligating Mergeco or
any of its subsidiaries, if any, to issue, transfer, deliver or sell, or cause
to be issued, transferred, delivered or sold, to any other person any additional
membership interests of Mergeco, or obligating Mergeco to grant, extend or enter
into any such agreement or commitment.
4.3 Authorization of this Agreement. Mergeco and the Continuing
Shareholders have all requisite power and authority to execute and deliver this
Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. The execution
and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby have been duly and validly authorized and approved by the
holders of all the membership interests of Mergeco, and no other proceedings on
the part of Mergeco are necessary to authorize this Agreement or consummate the
transactions contemplated hereby. This Agreement has been duly and validly
executed and delivered by Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders and adopted by
the members of Mergeco, and (assuming the due authorization, execution and
delivery hereof by the Company) constitutes a valid and binding agreement of
Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders.
4.4 Governmental Filings; No Violations. Except for (i) filings
required by the applicable requirements of the Exchange Act, (ii) the filing and
recordation of appropriate merger documents as required by the NYLLCL, (iii)
filings, if any, under the securities or blue sky laws or takeover statutes,
(iv) filings in connection with any applicable transfer or other taxes in any
applicable jurisdiction and (v) filings under applicable alcohol and beverage
laws and regulations, no filing with, and no permit, authorization, consent or
approval of, any public body or authority is necessary for the consummation by
Mergeco of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, the failure to make
or obtain which is reasonably likely to impair the ability of Mergeco to perform
its obligations hereunder or to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby.
Neither the execution and delivery of this Agreement nor the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby nor compliance by Mergeco with any of the
provisions hereof will (x) conflict with or result in any violation of any
provision of the articles of organization or operating agreement of Mergeco, (y)
result in a violation or breach of, or constitute a default (or give rise to any
right of termination, cancellation or acceleration) under, any note, bond,
mortgage, indenture, license, agreement or other instrument or obligation to
which Mergeco is a party, or by which it or any of its properties or assets is
bound or (z) assuming the truth of the representations and warranties of the
Company hereunder and its compliance with all agreements contained herein and
assuming the due making of all filings or obtaining of all permits,
authorizations, consents and approvals referred to in the preceding sentence,
violate any statute, rule, regulation, order, injunction, writ or decree of any
public body or authority by which Mergeco or any of its properties or assets is
bound, excluding from the foregoing clauses (y) and (z) conflicts, violations,
breaches or defaults which, either individually or in the aggregate, are not
reasonably likely to impair materially the ability of Mergeco to perform its
obligations hereunder or to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby.
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4.5 Financing Arrangements. Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders
have received a "highly confident" letter (the "Debt Financing Letter") dated
the date hereof from Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. ("Bear Stearns"), a copy of which
is annexed as Exhibit "A" to this Agreement, relating to approximately $300
million of debt financing (the "Debt Financing"), which Debt Financing Letter is
currently in effect. It is contemplated that the Debt Financing, together with
the Company's cash and marketable securities immediately prior to the Effective
Time (collectively with the Debt Financing, the "Financing"), will be sufficient
to enable the Surviving Corporation to pay the Merger Consideration to all
Public Shareholders, make any payments contemplated by Section 2.4 and otherwise
to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby and to fund all costs and
expenses of the Company and Mergeco incurred in connection with the Merger and
the transactions contemplated hereby. The revolving credit facility, or the
excess cash, referred to in the Debt Financing Letter is designed to fund the
Surviving Corporation's ongoing working capital needs.
ARTICLE V
COVENANTS
5.1 Conduct of the Business of the Company. During the period from the
date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, neither the Company nor any of its
subsidiaries will (i) carry on their respective businesses other than in the
usual, regular and ordinary course of business, consistent with past practice;
(ii) issue any options to purchase shares of Common Stock or other capital stock
or issue any shares of Common Stock (other than pursuant to the exercise of
currently outstanding Stock Options) or other capital stock; or (iii) declare,
set aside or pay any dividend or other distribution (whether in cash, stock or
property or any combination thereof) in respect of its capital stock, or equity
interest, as the case may be, or repurchase or agree to repurchase any shares of
its capital stock, or agree to do any of the foregoing; provided, however, that
(x) any of the Company's wholly-owned direct or indirect subsidiaries may
declare, set aside or pay any dividend or other distribution with respect to
their capital stock, and (y) any other subsidiary of the Company may make a
distribution to the Company or other owners of such subsidiary if and to the
extent such subsidiary is required to do so by contract as in effect on the date
hereof.
5.2 Activities of Mergeco. From the date of this Agreement to the
Effective Time, Mergeco will not conduct any business or engage in any
activities of any nature other than activities in connection with this Agreement
or the transactions contemplated hereby.
5.3 Access to Information. During the period from the date of this
Agreement to the Effective Time, during normal business hours, upon reasonable
notice and in such a manner as will not unreasonably interfere with the conduct
of the business of the Company, the Company will (i) give Mergeco and its
authorized representatives, including representatives and advisors of persons
proposing to provide the Debt Financing, reasonable access to all stores,
offices and other facilities, and to all books and records, of the Company and
its subsidiaries, (ii) permit Mergeco and its authorized representatives to make
such inspections as it may reasonably require and (iii) cause its
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officers and those of its subsidiaries to furnish Mergeco with a copy of each
report, schedule and other document filed or received by it during such period
pursuant to the requirements of federal and state securities laws and such
financial and operating data and other information with respect to the business
and properties of the Company and its subsidiaries as Mergeco may from time to
time reasonably request. Mergeco shall take reasonable steps to insure that any
confidential information provided to it or its representatives and advisors
remains confidential and is used for no purpose other than the transactions
contemplated hereby.
5.4 Financing. Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders shall use their
best efforts to obtain the Debt Financing on terms and conditions no less
favorable to the Company than those described in Section 6.2(g). The Company
shall cooperate with, and use its best efforts to assist, Mergeco in obtaining
the Financing.
5.5 Shareholders' Meeting. (a) As soon as practicable, the Company,
acting through its Board of Directors, shall, in accordance with applicable law,
take all steps necessary to duly call, give notice of, convene and hold a
special or annual meeting of its shareholders (as same may be adjourned or
postponed from time to time, the "Shareholders' Meeting") for the purpose of
adopting this Agreement. The notice of such meeting shall contain the
information required to be included therein pursuant to the NYBCL.
(b) The Continuing Shareholders agree (i) to vote at the Shareholders'
Meeting all 7,064,328 shares of outstanding Common Stock owned of record by them
as of the date of this Agreement (the "Continuing Shareholder Shares") for
adoption of this Agreement but only if at least a majority of the votes cast at
the Shareholders' Meeting (excluding votes cast by the holders of the Continuing
Shareholder Shares, abstentions and broker non-votes) are cast in favor of
adoption of this Agreement, (ii) not to grant a proxy to vote any Continuing
Shareholder Shares other than to another Continuing Shareholder or to persons
identified in a proxy card distributed on behalf of the Company's Board of
Directors to vote such Continuing Shareholder Shares at the Shareholders'
Meeting in the manner provided in clause (i), and (iii) not to sell, transfer or
otherwise dispose of any Continuing Shareholder Shares (other than transfers of
Continuing Shareholder Shares to Mergeco or any family members of Mario Sbarro,
Anthony Sbarro or Joseph Sbarro or trusts for the benefit of such Continuing
Shareholders or such family members), which shares may be so transferred only if
the transferee agrees in writing to be bound by the terms of the agreements
contained in this Section 5.5(b). In the event of any transfer of Continuing
Shareholder Shares after the date hereof, such shares shall remain Continuing
Shareholder Shares and be deemed to be owned of record by the Continuing
Shareholders for purposes of Article II of this Agreement and this Section
5.5(b).
5.6 Proxy Statement and Schedule 13E-3. (a) The Company will, as soon
as practicable, prepare and file with the Securities and Exchange Commission
(the "Commission") a proxy statement and a form of proxy, in connection with the
vote of the Company's shareholders with respect to the Merger (such proxy
statement, together with any amendments thereof or supplements thereto, in each
case in the form or forms mailed to the Company's shareholders, being the "Proxy
Statement"). The Company, Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders shall together
prepare and file a Transaction
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Statement on Schedule 13E-3 (the "Schedule 13E-3") under the Exchange Act. Each
of Mergeco, the Company and the Continuing Shareholders shall furnish all
information required to be included about such person (as defined in Section
9.10) in the Proxy Statement and the Schedule 13E-3 and, after consultation with
each other, shall respond promptly to any comments made by the Commission with
respect to the Proxy Statement and any preliminary version thereof and the
Schedule 13E-3. The Company shall cause the Proxy Statement to be mailed to its
shareholders at the earliest practicable time. The Proxy Statement shall include
the recommendation of the Company's Board of Directors to the shareholders of
the Company (and reflect that the Special Committee has made a similar
recommendation to the Company's Board of Directors), subject to the fiduciary
duties under applicable law of such directors (including the directors
constituting the Special Committee), as determined by such directors in good
faith after consultation with counsel, in favor of the adoption of this
Agreement. The Company shall use its best efforts to obtain the necessary
adoption of this Agreement by its shareholders. Notwithstanding anything to the
contrary in this Agreement, if the Board of Directors of the Company or the
Special Committee determines, in good faith after consultation with counsel
that, in the exercise of its respective fiduciary duties, under applicable law
it is required to withdraw, modify or amend its recommendation in favor of the
Merger, such withdrawal, modification or amendment shall not constitute a breach
of this Agreement.
(b) The information supplied by the Company for inclusion in the Proxy
Statement or the Schedule 13E-3 shall not, at the time the Proxy Statement is
mailed, contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any
material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the
statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made,
not misleading or, at the time of the Shareholders' Meeting, as then amended or
supplemented, omit to state any material fact necessary to correct any statement
originally supplied by the Company for inclusion in the Proxy Statement or the
Schedule 13E-3 which has become false or misleading. If, at any time prior to
the Effective Time, any event relating to the Company or any of its affiliates,
or relating to their respective officers, directors or shareholders, should be
discovered which should be set forth in an amendment of, or a supplement to,
such Proxy Statement or Schedule 13E-3, the Company shall promptly so inform
Mergeco and will furnish all necessary information to Mergeco relating to such
event. All documents that the Company is responsible for filing with the
Commission in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
shall comply in all material respects, both as to form and otherwise, with the
Exchange Act.
(c) The information supplied or to be supplied by Mergeco and the
Continuing Shareholders for inclusion in the Proxy Statement or the Schedule
13E-3 shall not, at the time the Proxy Statement is mailed, contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of
the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading or, at the time of
the Shareholders' Meeting, as then amended or supplemented, omit to state any
material fact necessary to correct any statement originally supplied by Mergeco
and the Continuing Shareholders for inclusion in the Proxy Statement or the
Schedule 13E-3 which has become false or misleading. If, at any time prior to
the Effective Time, any event relating to Mergeco or any of its affiliates, or
relating to the respective officers, directors or shareholders of Mergeco or its
affiliates, as the case
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may be, should be discovered which should be set forth in an amendment of, or a
supplement to, such Proxy Statement or Schedule 13E-3, Mergeco shall promptly so
inform the Company and will furnish all necessary information to the Company
relating to such event. All documents that Mergeco is responsible for filing
with the Commission in connection with the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement shall comply in all material respects, both as to form and otherwise,
with the Exchange Act.
5.7 Best Efforts. Subject to the terms and conditions herein provided
and the fiduciary duties under applicable law of the directors of the Company,
including directors constituting the Special Committee, as determined by such
directors in good faith after consultation with counsel, each of the parties
hereto agrees to use its best efforts consistent with applicable legal
requirements to take, or cause to be taken, all action, and to do, or cause to
be done, all things necessary or proper and advisable (including, but not
limited to, executing any and all additional documents) under applicable laws
and regulations to ensure that the conditions set forth in Article VI hereof are
satisfied and to consummate and make effective, in a commercially reasonable
manner, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Without limiting the
generality of the foregoing, the Continuing Shareholders shall use their best
efforts to cause Mergeco to perform all of its obligations under this Agreement.
5.8 Consents. Mergeco and the Company each shall use their best efforts
to obtain all material consents of third parties and governmental authorities,
and to make all governmental filings, necessary for the consummation of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
5.9 Public Announcements. Mergeco and the Company will consult with
each other before issuing any press release or otherwise making any public
statements with respect to the Merger, this Agreement and the transactions
contemplated hereby, and shall not issue any such press release or make any such
public statement prior to such consultation, except as may be required by law or
in accordance with the Company's obligations incurred pursuant to its listing
agreement with the New York Stock Exchange.
5.10 Indemnification. (a) Until and for a period of six years after the
Effective Time, the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation of the
Company limiting the personal liability of directors for damages and the
indemnification provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of the
Company as they relate to those who have served as directors or officers of the
Company at any time through the Effective Time shall not be amended, repealed or
otherwise modified in any manner that would make any of such provisions less
favorable to the directors or officers of the Company or the Surviving
Corporation than those that pertain to directors and officers on the date
hereof. Until and for a period of six years after the Effective Time (provided
that if any claim or claims are asserted or made under this Section 5.10 within
such six-year period, all rights to indemnification in respect of each such
claim shall continue until final disposition of such claim), the Surviving
Corporation shall, (i) indemnify, defend and hold harmless the present and
former officers and directors of the Company and its subsidiaries, Mergeco and
the members of Mergeco (collectively, the "Indemnified Parties"), from and
against, and pay or reimburse the Indemnified
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Parties for, all losses, obligations, expenses, claims, damages or liabilities
(whether or not resulting from third-party claims and including interest,
penalties, out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees incurred in the
investigation or defense of any of the same or in asserting any of their rights
hereunder) resulting from or arising out of actions or omissions of such
Indemnified Parties occurring on or prior to the Effective Time (including,
without limitation, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement) to the
fullest extent permitted or required, as the case may be, under (A) applicable
law, (B) the Certificate of Incorporation or By-laws of the Company or the
articles of organization or operating agreement of Mergeco in effect on the date
of this Agreement, including, without limitation, provisions relating to
advances of expenses incurred in the defense of any action or suit, (C) any
indemnification agreement between the Indemnified Party and the Company, or (D)
resolutions adopted by the shareholders or directors of the Company or the
members of Mergeco; and (ii) advance to any Indemnified Parties expenses
incurred in defending any action or suit with respect to such matters upon
receipt of an undertaking (which need not be secured) by or on behalf of such
Indemnified Party to repay such amount as, and to the extent, it is not entitled
to be indemnified, in each case to the fullest extent such Indemnified Party is
entitled to indemnification or advancement of expenses under the Company's
Certificate of Incorporation, By-laws or indemnification agreements with its
officers and directors or Mergeco's operating agreement in effect on the date
hereof and subject to the terms of such Certificate of Incorporation, By-laws,
indemnification agreements or operating agreement; provided, however, that (i)
no indemnification shall be made to or on behalf of Mergeco or a member of
Mergeco in his or its individual capacity or in his or its capacity as a member
of Mergeco which arises as a result of the transactions contemplated herein if a
judgment or other final adjudication adverse to Mergeco or such member of
Mergeco, as the case may be, establishes that its or his acts constituted a
breach of (x) its or his fiduciary duties to the Company or the shareholders of
the Company, or (y) any of Mergeco's or such member's representations,
warranties or obligations hereunder which caused the Company to terminate this
Agreement; and (ii) nothing herein shall be construed as adversely affecting any
such member's entitlement to indemnification from the Company as an officer or
director of the Company.
(b) The Surviving Corporation shall use its best efforts to maintain in
effect for one year after the Effective Time one or more policies of directors'
and officers' liability insurance covering (i) reimbursement of the Company for
any obligation it incurs as a result of indemnification of directors and
officers (the "Corporate Reimbursement Feature") and (ii) also providing
insurance for directors and officers individually in cases where the Corporate
Reimbursement Feature is not applicable, including in the event of the
insolvency of the Company (the "Individual Feature"), with an aggregate limit of
liability of not less than $5.0 million for the policy period for all such
policies; provided, however, that the Surviving Corporation shall not be
required to pay a premium therefor in excess of $100,000, but, if such premium
would exceed such amount, the Surviving Corporation shall purchase as much
coverage as possible for such amount. Such policy shall be on a "claims made"
basis and shall have a retention amount of not more than $250,000 and no
co-insurance with respect to the Corporate Reimbursement Feature, and retention
and co-insurance amounts not greater than the minimum amounts required by New
York state law with respect to the Individual Feature. The policies will cover
and relate to any individual who is, becomes or was a director or officer of the
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Company. Such policies may be subject to additional customary conditions and
exclusions, including an exclusion for any lawsuits pending at the time such
policy is written or relating to the Merger.
(c) Any Indemnified Party wishing to claim indemnification under
Section 5.10(a) shall provide notice to the Surviving Corporation promptly after
such Indemnified Party has actual knowledge of any claim as to which indemnity
may be sought, and the Indemnified Party shall permit the Surviving Corporation
(at its expense) to assume the defense of any claim or any litigation resulting
therefrom; provided, however, that (i) counsel for the Surviving Corporation,
who shall conduct the defense of such claim or litigation, shall be reasonably
satisfactory to the Indemnified Party and the Indemnified Party may participate
in such defense at such Indemnified Party's expense, and (ii) the omission by or
delay of any Indemnified Party to give notice as provided herein shall not
relieve the Surviving Corporation of its indemnification obligation under this
Agreement, except to the extent that such omission or delay results in a failure
of actual notice to the Surviving Corporation or the Surviving Corporation is
materially prejudiced as a result thereof. In the event that the Surviving
Corporation does not accept the defense of any matter as above provided, or
counsel for such Indemnified Party advises that there are issues that raise
conflicts of interest between the Surviving Corporation and the Indemnified
Party, the Indemnified Party may retain counsel satisfactory to it, and the
Surviving Corporation shall pay all reasonable fees and expenses of such counsel
for the Indemnified Party promptly as statements therefor are received;
provided, however, that the Surviving Corporation shall not be liable for any
settlement effected without its prior written consent (which consent shall not
be unreasonably withheld); and provided, further, that the Surviving Corporation
shall not be responsible for the fees and expenses of more than one counsel for
all of the Indemnified Parties, unless such Indemnified Party concludes (based
upon the written advice of counsel to such Indemnified Party) that there may be
legal defenses available to such Indemnified Party that are different from or
additional to those available to any other Indemnified Party, in which event the
Indemnified Party making such conclusion shall be entitled to select separate
counsel to assert such legal defenses and to otherwise participate in the
defense of the matter, and the Surviving Corporation shall be liable to the
Indemnified Party under this Section 5.10 for any such legal or other expenses
incurred by the Indemnified Party in connection with such defense. In any event,
the Surviving Corporation and the Indemnified Parties shall cooperate in the
defense of any action or claim. The Surviving Corporation shall not, in the
defense of any such claim or litigation, except with the consent of the
Indemnified Party, consent to entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement
that provides for injunctive or other nonmonetary relief affecting the
Indemnified Party or that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the
giving by the claimant or plaintiff to such Indemnified Party of a release from
all liability with respect to such claim or litigation.
(d) This Section 5.10 is intended for the benefit of, and to grant
third party rights to, persons entitled to indemnification under this Section
5.10 and/or the benefits of Article Seventh of the Certificate of Incorporation
of the Company as in effect on the date hereof, whether or not parties to this
Agreement, and each of such persons shall be entitled to enforce the covenants
contained in this Section 5.10.
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(e) If the Surviving Corporation or any of its respective successors or
assigns (i) reorganizes or consolidates with or merges into any other person and
is not the resulting, continuing or surviving corporation or entity of such
reorganization, consolidation or merger, or (ii) liquidates, dissolves or
transfers all or substantially all of its properties and assets to any person or
persons, then, and in such case, proper provision will be made so that the
respective successors and assigns of the Surviving Corporation assume all of the
obligations of the Surviving Corporation referred to in this Section 5.10.
5.11 No Solicitation. (a) The Company and its subsidiaries shall not,
and shall not authorize or permit any of their officers, directors (including
but not limited to directors who are members of the Special Committee), agents,
representatives, advisors or affiliates (collectively, for the purposes of this
Section 5.11, "Representatives") to, in each case whether or not in writing and
whether or not communicated to the shareholders of the Company generally, (i)
take any action to solicit, initiate or encourage any Transaction Proposal (as
defined herein), or (ii) enter into negotiations with, or furnish information
to, any other party with respect to any Transaction Proposal; provided, however,
that the Company and the Representatives shall not be prohibited from taking any
action described in clause (ii) above to the extent such action is taken by, or
upon the authority of, the Board of Directors of the Company if, in the good
faith judgment of the Board of Directors, (x) such Transaction Proposal is
(after consultation with a financial advisor of a nationally recognized
reputation) (A) more favorable to the Company's shareholders than the Merger,
(B) achievable, and (C) supported by creditable financing, which may include a
"highly confident" letter from a nationally recognized investment banking firm
or nationally recognized lending institution, and (y) after consultation with
counsel, failure to take such action would breach its fiduciary duties to the
Company's shareholders under applicable law. For the purposes of this Agreement,
"Transaction Proposal" means any offer or proposal for, or any indication of
interest in, a merger or other business combination involving the Company or any
subsidiary of the Company or the acquisition of any equity interest in, or the
sale of a substantial portion of the assets of, the Company or any such
subsidiary, except for the transactions contemplated hereby.
(b) The Company shall promptly provide Mergeco with a summary of the
material terms of any Transaction Proposal and of any negotiations or
communications between the Company or its subsidiaries or any of their
respective Representatives concerning any Transaction Proposal.
(c) The Company shall give Mergeco not less than three business days'
written notice before providing any confidential information to any person
(other than Mergeco, the prospective sources of the Debt Financing and their
respective representatives) concerning the business, properties or prospects of
the Company and/or its subsidiaries.
(d) Nothing contained in this Agreement shall prohibit the Company from
making a statement to its shareholders that is required by Rule 14e-2(a)
promulgated under the Exchange Act or from making any other disclosure to its
shareholders if, in the good faith judgment of the Board of Directors, after
consultation with counsel, failure to make such a statement would breach its
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fiduciary duties to the Company's shareholders under applicable law or would
otherwise violate the Exchange Act, other applicable law or stock exchange
regulation.
5.12 Transfer Taxes. Except to the extent otherwise contemplated in
Section 2.3, the Surviving Corporation shall pay any transfer taxes (including
any interest and penalties thereon and additions thereto) payable in connection
with the Merger and shall be responsible for the preparation and filing of any
required tax returns, declarations, reports, schedules, terms and information
returns with respect to such transfer taxes.
ARTICLE VI
CLOSING CONDITIONS
6.1 Conditions to the Obligations of Each Party. The respective
obligations of each party hereto to effect the Merger shall be subject to the
satisfaction or waiver, at or prior to the Effective Time, of the following
conditions:
(a) the proposal to adopt this Agreement at the Shareholders' Meeting
shall have been approved and adopted by the affirmative vote of at least
two-thirds of the votes of all outstanding shares of Common Stock entitled to
vote thereon in accordance with the NYBCL;
(b) the proposal to adopt this Agreement shall have been approved and
adopted by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the votes cast at the
Shareholders' Meeting excluding (i) votes cast by the holders of the Continuing
Shareholder Shares, (ii) abstentions and (iii) broker non- votes;
(c) there shall not have occurred (i) a declaration of a banking
moratorium or any suspension of payments in respect of banks in the United
States or (ii) a commencement of a war, armed hostilities or other international
or national calamity, directly involving the United States, that has a material
adverse effect on the general economic conditions in the United States such as
to make it, in the judgment of a party hereto, inadvisable or impractical to
proceed with the Merger or the transactions contemplated hereby or by the Debt
Financing; and
(d) other than the filing of the Certificates of Merger as contemplated
in Section 1.5, each of the Company and Mergeco shall have obtained such
consents from third parties and approvals from government instrumentalities as
shall be required for the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby,
except for such consents the failure to obtain which would not have a Material
Adverse Effect.
6.2 Conditions to the Obligations of Mergeco. The obligation of Mergeco
pursuant to this Agreement to consummate the Merger is also subject to the
satisfaction or waiver, at the Closing, of the following additional conditions:
(a) the representations and warranties of the Company contained herein
shall be true and correct in all respects (in the case of any representation or
warranty containing any materiality
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qualification) or in all material respects (in the case of any representation or
warranty without any materiality qualification) as of the date of this Agreement
and as of the Closing with the same effect as though all such representations
and warranties had been made as of the Closing, except (i) for any such
representations and warranties made as of a specified date, which shall be true
and correct as of such date, (ii) as expressly contemplated by this Agreement,
and (iii) for breaches of representations or warranties that (x) would not have
a Material Adverse Effect or a material adverse effect on the ability of the
Company to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby, or (y) are known on
the date hereof by any of the Continuing Shareholders; and Mergeco shall have
received from the Company an officer's certificate to this effect at the
Closing;
(b) each and all of the covenants and agreements of the Company to be
performed and complied with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing
shall have been duly performed and complied with, except where the failure to
comply with such covenant or agreement (i) would not have a Material Adverse
Effect or a material adverse effect on the ability of the Company to consummate
the transactions contemplated hereby, or (ii) was the direct result of an act or
omission of any of the Continuing Shareholders; and Mergeco shall have received
from the Company an officer's certificate to this effect at the Closing;
(c) there shall have been no (i) material adverse change in the
business, condition (financial or otherwise), properties, assets or prospects of
the Company and its subsidiaries taken as a whole; (ii) death or disability of
any of Mario Sbarro, Anthony Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro or Carmela Sbarro or any
executive officer of the Company named in the Company's Annual Report on Form
10- K/A for the year ended December 28, 1997 as stated therein to have a family
relationship (as such term is defined in Item 401 of Regulation S-K promulgated
by the Commission) with a Continuing Shareholder; or (iii) material adverse
change, or event or occurrence that is reasonably likely to result in an adverse
change, in securities, financial or borrowing markets, or applicable tax or
other laws or regulations, such as to decrease in any material respect the
benefits of the Merger to the Continuing Shareholders or make it impractical to
proceed with the Merger or the transactions contemplated hereby or by the Debt
Financing;
(d) no statute, rule, regulation, or temporary, preliminary or
permanent order or injunction shall have been proposed, promulgated, enacted,
entered, enforced or deemed applicable by any state, federal or foreign
government or governmental authority or court or governmental agency of
competent jurisdiction that (i) prohibits consummation of the Merger or the
transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, or (ii) imposes material
limitations on the ability of the Continuing Shareholders effectively to
exercise full rights of ownership with respect to the shares of Common Stock to
be issued to them pursuant to Section 2.2 of this Agreement;
(e) the seven class action lawsuits which have heretofore been
instituted with respect to the transactions contemplated hereby shall have been
consolidated into one action in the Supreme Court of the State of New York and
the settlement of such actions, as reflected in that certain Memorandum of
Understanding dated January 19, 1999 (the "Memorandum of Understanding") among
the parties to such actions, shall have been approved by the Supreme Court of
New York
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County, final judgment shall have been entered in accordance with the Settlement
Agreement contemplated in the Memorandum of Understanding and shall have become
final, such actions shall have been dismissed with prejudice and without costs
to any party (except as provided in the Memorandum of Understanding) and no
holders, or holders of no more than an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of Common
Stock, shall have requested exclusion from the "Class", as such term is defined
in the Memorandum of Understanding.
(f) neither (i) any action, suit or proceeding before any court or
governmental body relating to the Merger or the transactions contemplated hereby
shall be pending in which an unfavorable judgment or decree could prevent or
substantially delay the consummation of the Merger, or is reasonably likely to
(w) result in a material increase in the aggregate Merger Consideration, (x)
result in an award of material damages, (y) cause the Merger to be rescinded or
(z) result in a material amount of rescissory damages, nor (ii) any decision in
any action, suit or proceeding relating to the Merger or the transactions
contemplated hereby shall have been rendered by any court or governmental body
which has any such effect; and
(g) the Company shall have obtained the Debt Financing referred to in
Section 4.5: (i) in at least the amount set forth in the Financing Letter, (ii)
on the material terms and conditions no less favorable to the Surviving
Corporation than those set forth in the Term Sheet annexed as Exhibit "B" to
this Agreement, and (iii) having a yield to maturity not to exceed 11.25% per
annum.
6.3 Conditions to the Obligations of the Company. The obligation of the
Company pursuant to this Agreement to consummate the Merger is also subject to
the satisfaction or waiver, at the Closing, of the following additional
conditions:
(a) the representations and warranties of Mergeco contained herein
shall be true and correct in all respects (in the case of any representation or
warranty containing any materiality qualification) or in all material respects
(in the case of any representation or warranty without any materiality
qualification) as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing with the
same effect as though all such representations and warranties had been made as
of the Closing, except (i) for any such representations and warranties made as
of a specified date, which shall be true and correct as of such date, (ii) as
expressly contemplated by this Agreement, and (iii) for breaches of
representations or warranties that would not have a material adverse effect on
the ability of Mergeco to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby; and
the Company shall have received from Mergeco a member's certificate to this
effect at the Closing; and
(b) each and all of the covenants and agreements of Mergeco to be
performed and complied with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing
shall have been duly performed and complied with in all material respects except
where the failure to comply with such covenant or agreement would not have a
material adverse effect on the ability of Mergeco to consummate the transactions
contemplated hereby; and the Company shall have received from Mergeco a member's
certificate to this effect at the Closing; and
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(c) no statute, rule, regulation, or temporary, preliminary or
permanent order or injunction shall have been proposed, promulgated, enacted,
entered, enforced or deemed applicable by any state, federal or foreign
government or governmental authority or court or governmental agency of
competent jurisdiction that prohibits consummation of the Merger or the
transactions contemplated hereby or thereby.
ARTICLE VII
CLOSING
7.1 Time and Place. The closing of the Merger (the "Closing") shall
take place at the offices of Parker Chapin Flattau & Klimpl, LLP, 1211 Avenue of
the Americas, New York, New York, as soon as practicable following satisfaction
or waiver of the conditions set forth in Article VI. The date on which the
Closing actually occurs is herein referred to as the "Closing Date."
7.2 Filings at the Closing. Promptly following the Closing, the Company
and Mergeco shall cause Certificates of Merger, together with any other
documents required by law to effectuate the Merger, to be executed, verified and
delivered for filing by the New York Department of State as provided by Section
904-a of the NYBCL and Section 1003 of the NYLLCL, respectively, to the extent
required, and shall take any and all other lawful actions and do any and all
other lawful things necessary to cause the Merger to become effective. 7.3
ARTICLE VIII
TERMINATION AND ABANDONMENT
8.1 Termination. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to
the Effective Time, whether before or after approval by the shareholders of the
Company:
(a) by mutual consent of the Board of Directors of the Company (by
action taken by the Company's Board of Directors) and the members of Mergeco;
(b) automatically, without action by any party hereto, if, at the
Shareholders' Meeting, the Company's shareholders shall have not voted to adopt
this Agreement in accordance with the requirements set forth in Sections 6.1(a)
and (b);
(c) by action of the Board of Directors of the Company or the members
of Mergeco if, without the fault of the terminating party, the Merger has not
been consummated on or prior to June 30, 1999;
(d) by action of the Board of Directors of the Company or the members
of Mergeco if the Special Committee shall have withdrawn or modified in a manner
adverse to Mergeco its approval or recommendation of the Merger, this Agreement
or the transactions contemplated hereby;
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(e) by action of the Board of Directors of the Company or the members
of Mergeco if (i) any of the events set forth in Section 6.1(c) shall have
occurred or (ii) consents or approvals described in Section 6.1(d) shall not
have been obtained prior to the Closing or shall have become incapable of being
obtained, and, in the case of (i) or (ii), shall not have been, on or before the
date of such termination, permanently waived by the Board of Directors of the
Company or the members of Mergeco, as the case may be;
(f) by action of the members of Mergeco if (i) any of the conditions
set forth in Sections 6.2(a), (b), (e), or (g) that are required to be satisfied
at or prior to the Closing shall not have been satisfied prior to the Closing or
shall have become incapable of being satisfied or (ii) if any of the events set
forth in Sections 6.2(c), (d) or (f) shall have occurred prior to the Closing
and, in the case of (i) or (ii), shall not have been, on or before the date of
such termination, permanently waived by Mergeco; provided, however, that, in the
case of Sections 6.2(a) or (b), the Company shall not have cured such breach, in
all material respects, within ten (10) business days following the receipt of
written notice from Mergeco of such breach; and
(g) by action of the Board of Directors of the Company if (i) any of
the conditions set forth in Sections 6.3(a) or (b) that are required to be
satisfied at or prior to the Closing shall not have been satisfied prior to the
Closing or shall have become incapable of being satisfied or (ii) if any of the
events set forth in Section 6.3(c) shall have occurred prior to the Closing and,
in the case of (i) or (ii), shall not have been, on or before the date of such
termination, permanently waived by the Board of Directors of the Company;
provided, however, that, in the case of Sections 6.3(a) and (b), Mergeco and the
Continuing Shareholders shall not have cured such breach, in all material
respects, within ten (10) business days following the receipt of written notice
from the Company of such breach.
8.2 Procedure and Effect of Termination. In the event of termination
and abandonment of the Merger by either Mergeco or the Company pursuant to
Section 8.1, written notice thereof shall forthwith be given to the other, and
this Agreement shall terminate and the Merger shall be abandoned, without
further action by any of the parties hereto. If this Agreement is terminated as
provided herein, no party hereto shall have any liability or further obligation
to any other party to this Agreement; provided, however, that (i) any
termination by the Company arising out of a breach by Mergeco or the Continuing
Shareholders of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement contained in
this Agreement shall be without prejudice to the rights of the Company to seek
damages with respect thereto, and (ii) any termination by Mergeco arising out of
a breach by the Company of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement
contained in this Agreement, other than a breach by the Company that is the
direct result of an act or omission of the Continuing Shareholders, shall be
without prejudice to the rights of Mergeco to seek damages with respect thereto;
and provided, further, however, that the obligations set forth in this Section
8.2 and Section 9.6 shall in any event survive any termination.
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ARTICLE IX
MISCELLANEOUS
9.1 Amendment; Modification and Approval of Special Committee. Subject
to applicable law, this Agreement may be amended, modified or supplemented only
by written agreement of Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders, on the one
hand, and the Company, on the other hand, at any time prior to the Effective
Time with respect to any of the terms contained herein; provided, however, that
(i) after this Agreement is adopted by the Company's shareholders pursuant to
Section 5.5, no such amendment or modification shall be made that reduces the
amount or changes the form of the Merger Consideration or otherwise materially
and adversely affects the rights of the Public Shareholders hereunder without
further approval by the holders of such number of votes of shares of Common
Stock that are required to approve this Agreement pursuant to Sections 6.1(a)
and (b), and (ii) the approval of the Special Committee shall be required for
any action that may be taken by the Board of Directors pursuant to this
Agreement, including without limitation, any determination to terminate this
Agreement, any amendment or modification of this Agreement, any extension by the
Company of the time for the performance of any obligations or other acts of
Mergeco and any waiver of any of the Company's rights under this Agreement.
9.2 Waiver of Compliance; Consents. Any failure of Mergeco or the
Company to comply with any obligation, covenant, agreement or condition herein
may be waived by the other party, only by a written instrument signed by the
party granting such waiver (and if required pursuant to Section 9.1(ii), by an
authorized member of the Special Committee), but such waiver or failure to
insist upon strict compliance with such obligation, covenant, agreement or
condition shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any
subsequent or other failure. Whenever this Agreement requires or permits consent
by or on behalf of any party hereto, such consent shall be given in writing in a
manner consistent with the requirements for a waiver of compliance as set forth
in this Section 9.2.
9.3 Non-Survival of Representations and Warranties. Each and every
representation and warranty made in this Agreement shall expire with, and be
terminated and extinguished by, the Merger. This Section 9.3 shall have no
effect upon any other obligation of the parties hereto, whether to be performed
before or after the Closing.
9.4 Notices. All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in
writing and shall be deemed given if (i) delivered personally or by
nationally-recognized overnight courier, (ii) mailed by registered or certified
mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid or (iii) transmitted by
facsimile, and in each case, addressed to the parties at the following addresses
(or at such other address for a party as shall be specified by like notice:
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(a) if to Mergeco or the Continuing Shareholders, to:
Sbarro Merger LLC
401 Broadhollow Road
Melville, New York 11747
Facsimile: (516) 715-4190
Attention: Mario Sbarro
with copies to
Warshaw Burstein Cohen Schlesinger & Kuh, LLP
555 Fifth Avenue
New York, New York 10017
Facsimile: (212) 972-9150
Attention: Arthur A. Katz, Esq.
(b) if to the Company, to
Sbarro, Inc.
401 Broadhollow Road
Melville, New York 11747
Facsimile: (516) 715-4185
Attention: Robert S. Koebele, Vice President-Finance
with copies to
Parker Chapin Flattau & Klimpl, LLP
1211 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10036
Facsimile: (212) 704-6288
Attention: Richard A. Rubin, Esq.
and to
Special Committee of the Board of Directors of Sbarro, Inc.
c/o Steven J. Gartner, Esq.
Willkie Farr & Gallagher
787 Seventh Avenue
New York, New York 10019
Facsimile: (212) 728-8111
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with copies to
Willkie Farr & Gallagher
787 Seventh Avenue
New York, New York 10019
Facsimile: (212) 728-8111
Attention: Steven J. Gartner, Esq.
Any notice so addressed shall be deemed to be given (x) three business days
after being mailed by first-class, registered or certified mail, return receipt
requested, postage prepaid and (y) upon delivery, if transmitted by personal
delivery, nationally-recognized overnight courier or facsimile; provided,
however, that notices of a change of address shall be effective only upon
receipt thereof.
9.5 Assignment; Parties in Interest. This Agreement and all of the
provisions hereof shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties
and their respective successors and permitted assigns; but neither this
Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or obligations hereunder may be
assigned by any party without the prior written consent of the other parties.
Except for Section 5.10, which is intended for the benefit of the Indemnified
Parties, this Agreement is not intended to confer upon any person, except the
parties, any rights or remedies under or by reason of this Agreement.
9.6 Costs and Expenses. Each party represents and warrants that it has
not obligated either itself or any other party to incur any broker, finder or
investment banking fees or related expenses, except for fees and expenses
payable by the Company to Bear, Stearns and to Prudential Securities. In the
event that this Agreement is terminated for any reason, the Company, on the one
hand, and Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders, on the other hand, shall each
pay their own fees and expenses, it being understood that (a) the fees and
expenses of the Company shall include (i) the fees and expenses of financial
advisors (including Bear Stearns and Prudential Securities), (ii) any fees and
expenses involved in the preparation, printing, mailing and filing of documents
used in connection with the Merger or the Debt Financing, and (iii) the fees and
expenses of accountants and counsel for the Company and the Special Committee,
and (b) the fees and expenses of Mergeco shall include (i) any commitment and
other fees or expenses payable to any person providing or proposing to provide
the Debt Financing for the Merger, and (ii) the fees and expenses of counsel for
Mergeco; provided, however, that in the event this Agreement is terminated for
any reason other than pursuant to (A) Section 8.1(g) due to a breach of this
Agreement under Sections 6.3(a) or (b), or (B) Section 8.1(f) by reason of the
failure to obtain the Debt Financing on the terms contemplated in Section 6.2(g)
other than by reason of circumstances described in Section 6.2(c)(iii), the
Company shall pay and reimburse Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders for the
fees and expenses incurred by them in connection with the transactions
contemplated hereby up to $500,000 in the aggregate; and provided, further,
however, that if this Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section 8.1(f) by
reason of the failure to obtain the Debt Financing on the terms contemplated in
Section 6.2(g) other than by reason of circumstances described in Section
6.2(c)(iii), Mergeco and the Continuing Shareholders shall, jointly and
severally, be obligated to pay and reimburse the Company for 50% of the fees and
expenses incurred by the Company, provided that Mergeco and the Continuing
Shareholders,
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together, shall not be obligated to so pay or reimburse the Company in excess of
$500,000 in the aggregate.
9.7 Specific Performance. The parties agree that irreparable damage
would occur in the event that any of the provisions of this Agreement were not
performed in accordance with their specific terms or were otherwise breached. It
is accordingly agreed that the parties shall be entitled to an injunction or
injunctions to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to enforce specifically
the terms and provisions hereof in any court of the United States or any state
having jurisdiction, this being in addition to any other remedy to which they
are entitled at law or in equity. Notwithstanding the foregoing, and without
limiting the Company's obligations under Section 9.6, in the event of a breach
of this Agreement by the Company, the sole and exclusive remedy of Mergeco or
the Continuing Shareholders shall be to either (i) terminate this Agreement
pursuant to Section 8.1 (and seek any remedy provided them under Section 8.2),
or (ii) pursue specific performance pursuant to this Section 9.7.
9.8 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the
State of New York (regardless of the laws that might otherwise govern under
applicable principles of conflicts of law) as to all matters, including but not
limited to matters of validity, construction, effect, performance and remedies.
9.9 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in two or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which
together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
9.10 Interpretation. The article and section headings contained in this
Agreement are solely for the purpose of reference, are not part of the agreement
of the parties and shall not in any way affect the meaning or interpretation of
this Agreement. As used in this Agreement, (i) the term "person" shall mean and
include an individual, a partnership, a joint venture, a corporation, a limited
liability company, a trust, an unincorporated organization and a government or
any department or agency thereof; (ii) the terms "affiliate" and "associate"
shall have the meanings set forth in Rule 12b- 2 of the General Rules and
Regulations promulgated under the Exchange Act; (iii) the term "subsidiary" of
any specified corporation shall mean any corporation, limited liability company
or other entity that is controlled, directly or indirectly, by the Company; (iv)
"best efforts" shall mean the commercially reasonable efforts that a prudent
person desirous of achieving a result would use in similar circumstances to
ensure that such result is timely achieved; provided, however, that a person
required to use his best efforts under this Agreement will not be required to
take actions that would result in a materially adverse change in the benefits to
such person of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby; and (v)
the words "hereunder," "herein," "hereof" and words or phrases of similar import
shall refer to each and every term and provision of this Agreement.
9.11 Entire Agreement. This Agreement, including the schedules hereto,
embodies the entire agreement and understanding of the parties in respect of the
subject matter contained herein
-24-
<PAGE>
and supersedes all prior agreements and the understandings between the parties
with respect to such subject matter.
9.12 Severability. If any term, provision, covenant or restriction of
this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction or other authority
to be invalid, void, unenforceable or against its regulatory policy, the
remainder of the terms, provisions, covenants and restrictions of this Agreement
shall remain in effect and shall in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated.
9.13 Headings. The Article and Section headings contained in this
Agreement are for reference purposes only and will not affect in any way the
meaning or interpretation of any provision of this Agreement.
[THE NEXT PAGE IS THE SIGNATURE PAGE]
-25-
<PAGE>
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Mergeco, the Company and the Continuing
Shareholders have caused this Agreement to be signed, by their respective duly
authorized officers or directly, as of the date first above written.
SBARRO MERGER LLC
By: /s/ Mario Sbarro
------------------------------
Name: Mario Sbarro
Title: Member
SBARRO, INC.
By: /s/ Robert S. Koebele
------------------------------
Name: Robert S. Koebele
Title: Vice President-Finance
The Continuing Shareholders:
/s/ Mario Sbarro
----------------------------------
Mario Sbarro
/s/ Joseph Sbarro
----------------------------------
Joseph Sbarro
JOSEPH SBARRO (1994) FAMILY
LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
By: /s/ Joseph Sbarro
------------------------------
Joseph Sbarro, General Partner
/s/ Anthony Sbarro
----------------------------------
Anthony Sbarro
/s/ Franklin Montgomery
----------------------------------
Franklin Montgomery, not
individually but as trustee under
that certain Trust Agreement dated
April 28, 1984 for the benefit of
Carmela Sbarro and her descendants
/s/ Mario Sbarro
----------------------------------
Mario Sbarro, not individually but
as trustee under that certain
Trust Agreement dated April 28,
1984 for the benefit of Carmela
Sbarro and her descendants
-26-
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT A
[LETTERHEAD OF BEAR STEARNS]
January 19, 1999
Mr. Mario Sbarro
Mr. Joseph Sbarro
Mr. Anthony Sbarro
The Trust of Carmela Sbarro
Sbarro Merger LLC
Gentlemen:
We understand that Sbarro Merger LLC and Sbarro, Inc. (the "Company") are
contemporaneously herewith entering into an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated
January 19, 1999, pursuant to which, among other things, all shareholders of the
Company, other than the Continuing Shareholders (as defined in the Agreement and
Plan of Merger), will receive $28.85 per share in cash (the "Transaction").
You have informed us that the aggregate cash purchase price, together with fees
and expenses, will result in a total Transaction cost of approximately $408
million. You have informed us that the Transaction cost will be funded by: (a)
approximately $138 million of cash and marketable securities which is expected
to be available to the Company at the closing of the Transaction and (b)
approximately $300 million of total debt financing, based in all material
respects on the terms and conditions set forth in Exhibit B to the Agreement and
Plan of Merger (the "Debt Financing"). The Debt Financing shall include either a
bank revolving credit facility, which shall have undrawn availability on the
closing date of the Transaction, or excess cash to fund the Company's ongoing
working capital needs, including capital expenditures.
You have asked Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. ("Bear Stearns") to act as placement
agent and arranger in connection with the Debt Financing.
This letter will confirm that, based upon and subject to (a) the foregoing, (b)
the information concerning the Company supplied to us by the Continuing
Shareholders and the Company, and (c) current market conditions, Bear Stearns is
highly confident as of the date hereof of its ability to place and arrange the
Debt Financing, subject to each of the following: (i) the negotiation of
definitive language with respect to the terms and conditions of the senior notes
included in the Debt Financing as set forth in Exhibit B to the Agreement and
Plan of Merger and the negotiation of other acceptable terms and conditions of
the Debt Financing, including, but not limited to, interest rate, price and
other covenants; (ii) the negotiation of acceptable terms, and the execution of
acceptable documentation, related to the Transaction and the Debt Financing;
(iii) no material adverse change in the business,
<PAGE>
prospects, condition (financial or otherwise) or results of operations of the
Company; (iv) satisfactory completion of legal due diligence; (v) nothing coming
to our attention which shall contradict or call into question (A) the
information previously provided to us by the Continuing Shareholders or the
Company or (B) the results of our financial due diligence investigation; (vi) no
material adverse change in market conditions for new issues of high yield debt
or syndicated bank loan facilities; (vii) no material adverse change in
conditions of the financial and capital markets generally, and (viii) the
Continuing Shareholders' and the Company's full cooperation with respect to the
marketing of the Debt Financing. The acceptability of each of the foregoing will
be determined in the sole discretion of Bear Stearns' Commitment Committee.
This letter does not constitute a commitment or undertaking on the part of Bear
Stearns to provide any part of the Debt Financing described above and does not
ensure the successful placement, arrangement or completion of the Debt
Financing. Bear Stearns does not and shall not have any liability (whether
direct or indirect, in contract or tort or otherwise) to the Company, the
Continuing Shareholders or any other person or entity in connection with this
letter.
You are hereby authorized to deliver a copy of this letter to the Continuing
Shareholders' and the Company's respective affiliates and representatives;
provided, however, that in connection with the Transaction and the related Debt
Financing, no public reference to Bear Stearns or this letter shall be made by
the Continuing Shareholders or the Company or any of its respective
representatives or affiliates without our express written consent.
Yours sincerely,
BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.
By: /s/ Randall E. Paulson
---------------------------------
Randall E. Paulson
Senior Managing Director
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT B
THIS SUMMARY TERM SHEET DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A COMMITMENT OR UNDERTAKING ON THE
PART OF BEAR STEARNS TO PROVIDE OR ARRANGE THE DEBT FINANCING AND DOES NOT
ENSURE THE SUCCESSFUL PLACEMENT OR COMPLETION OF THE DEBT FINANCING. THE
FOLLOWING IS A SUMMARY OF THE MATERIAL TERMS OF THE SECURITIES AND DOES NOT
PURPORT TO BE COMPLETE.
SBARRO, INC.
Senior Notes Summary Term Sheet
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issue Senior Notes due 2009 (the "Notes").
Issuer Sbarro, Inc. (the "Company").
Distribution The Notes will be sold to qualified institutional
buyers in a Rule 144A private placement.
Subsidiary Guarantees The Notes will be jointly and severally
guaranteed on a senior basis by all of the
Company's present and future Restricted
Subsidiaries.
Maturity 10 years.
Coupon To be determined based on market conditions at the
time of pricing.
Ranking The Notes will be general unsecured senior
obligations of the Company, ranking pari passu with
all existing and future senior indebtedness of the
Company.
Security None.
Mandatory Redemption The Company will not be required to make
mandatory redemption or sinking fund payments with
respect to the Notes (other than in connection with
Asset Sales or a Change of Control).
Optional Redemption The Notes will be non-callable for five years after
issuance. Thereafter, the Notes may be redeemed at
the option of the Company, in whole or in part, at
premiums declining ratably to par to the end of
year eight, plus accrued interest and Liquidated
Damages, if any, through the redemption date. Until
the third anniversary of the issuance of the Notes,
the Company may redeem up to 35% of the original
principal amount of the Notes with the net cash
proceeds of a
<PAGE>
Public Equity Offering at a price of __% of par,
plus accrued interest and Liquidated Damages, if
any; provided however, that following such
redemption, at least 65% of the original principal
amount of the Notes remains outstanding.
Registration Rights The Registration Rights Agreement will provide that
the Company will file and cause to become effective
a registration statement relating to an exchange
offer for the Notes. If such filing does not occur
or such exchange offer is not consummated (unless,
in the circumstances provided for in the
Registration Rights Agreement, the Company
registers the Notes for resale) within the
specified time periods (consistent with market
practices) set forth in the Registration Rights
Agreement, the Company will be required to pay
Liquidated Damages (consistent with market
practices) until so consummated.
Change of Control Upon any Change of Control, the Company will be
required to offer to purchase all of the
outstanding Notes at 101% plus accrued interest and
Liquidated Damages, if any, through the redemption
date.
Covenants The Notes will be governed by an Indenture
containing certain covenants customary for a
transaction of this nature that, among other
things, will limit the ability of the Company and
its subsidiaries to incur additional indebtedness;
pay dividends, repurchase capital stock or make
other restricted payments; create restrictions on
the ability of restricted subsidiaries to make
certain payments; create liens; enter into
transactions with affiliates; sell assets or enter
into certain mergers and consolidations. A summary
description of certain key covenants is as follows:
Restricted Payments. Restricted Payments may not
exceed 50% of cumulative Adjusted Consolidated Net
Income of the Company and its Restricted
Subsidiaries or, if cumulative Adjusted
Consolidated Net Income is a loss, minus 100% of
such loss, plus $5.0 million. Restricted Payments
include, among other items: (i) dividends or other
distributions on the Company's capital stock; (ii)
the purchase or redemption of any of the Company's
capital stock; (iii) the retirement of any debt
that is subordinated to the Notes, and (iv) any
Investments (other than Permitted Investments) in
entities which are not Wholly Owned Restricted
Subsidiaries.
Adjusted Consolidated Net Income means
for any period the sum of (a)
Consolidated Net Income for such period
plus (b) the aggregate amount of
intangible amortization charges resulting
from the contemplated merger transaction
to the extent deducted in calculating
Consolidated Net Income for such period.
Consolidated Net Income means for any
period, the aggregate of the Net Income
of the Company and its Restricted
Subsidiaries for such period, on a
consolidated basis, determined in
accordance with GAAP, less the Tax Amount
for such period; provided that (a) the
Net Income (but not the loss) of any
Person that is not a Restricted
Subsidiary of the Company or that is
accounted for by the equity method of
accounting shall be excluded except to
the extent of the amount of dividends or
distributions paid in cash by such Person
to the
<PAGE>
Company or Wholly Owned Restricted
Subsidiaries of the Company during such
period, (b) the Net Income of any
Restricted Subsidiary shall be excluded
to the extent that the declaration or
payment of dividends or similar
distributions by that Restricted
Subsidiary of that Net Income is not at
the date of determination permitted
without any prior governmental approval
(that has not been obtained) or, directly
or indirectly, or operation of the terms
of its charter or any agreement,
instrument, judgment, decree, order,
statute, rule or governmental regulation
applicable to that Subsidiary or its
stockholders, (c) the Net Income (or
loss) of any Person acquired in a pooling
of interests transaction for any period
prior to the date of such acquisition
shall be excluded, (d) any non-cash
write-off or charge (excluding any such
non-cash write-off or charge to the
extent it represents an accrual of or
reserve for cash expenses in any future
period) in respect of disposition of
assets other than in the ordinary course
of business shall be excluded, (e)
extraordinary gains or losses as
determined in accordance with GAAP shall
be excluded and (f) the cumulative effect
of a change in accounting principles
shall be excluded.
Tax Amount generally means (so long as
the Company is treated as a Subchapter S
Corporation for federal income tax
purposes) with respect to the Company,
for any period, the aggregate combined
federal, state, local and foreign income
taxes (including estimated taxes)
actually payable by shareholders
(including partners, members, or other
owners of shareholders) of the Company in
respect of such Person's taxable income
for such period in respect of the
Company, as more specifically provided in
the Indenture.
Permitted Investments include, among
other items: (i) Investments made after
the original issuance date of the Notes
in businesses similar or reasonably
related to that of the Company and its
Restricted Subsidiaries as of the
issuance date in an amount not to exceed
$10.0 million in aggregate outstanding at
any one time and (ii) the guarantee made
after the original issuance date of the
Notes by the Company of indebtedness of
Unrestricted Subsidiaries of the Company
in an amount not to exceed $10.0 million
in aggregate principal outstanding at any
one time, subject to the incurrence of
such guarantee being permitted under the
Consolidated Interest Coverage Ratio test
of the Limitation of Indebtedness
covenant.
Limitation on Indebtedness. The Company and its
Restricted Subsidiaries shall only be permitted to
create, incur, assume, guarantee or otherwise
become directly or indirectly liable for the
payment of any Indebtedness, other than Permitted
Indebtedness, if, after giving pro forma effect
thereto, the Consolidated Interest Coverage Ratio
for the four prior quarters is at least 2.0x to
1.0. Permitted Indebtedness will include, among
other items: (i) Indebtedness incurred by the
Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries under the
Senior Credit Facility, or any refinancing thereof,
not to exceed $75.0 million at any one time
outstanding (less amounts applied to repay or
prepay permanently such Indebtedness in accordance
with the "Limitation on Asset Sales" covenant); and
(ii) other Indebtedness of the Company or its
Restricted Subsidiaries in an aggregate principal
amount not in excess of $10.0 million at any one
time outstanding.
<PAGE>
Covenants (cont.) Consolidated Interest Coverage Ratio
means with respect to the Company and its
Restricted Subsidiaries for any period,
the ratio of the Consolidated Cash Flow
for such period to the Consolidated
Interest Expense for such period.
Consolidated Cash Flow means for any
period, the sum of (a) the Consolidated
Net Income of the Company and its
Restricted Subsidiaries for such period,
plus (b) the provision for taxes based on
income or profits or the Tax Amount for
such period to the extent that such
provision for taxes or Tax Amount was
deducted in computing Consolidated Net
Income for such period plus (c) the
Consolidated Interest Expense of the
Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries
for such period, plus (d) consolidated
depreciation and amortization (including
amortization of goodwill and other
intangibles but excluding amortization of
prepaid cash expenses that were paid in a
prior period) of the Company and its
Restricted Subsidiaries to the extent
deducted in computing Consolidated Net
Income for such period, plus (e) other
consolidated non-cash expenses of the
Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries
for such period (excluding any such
non-cash expense to the extent it
represents an accrual of or reserve for
cash expenses in any future period); less
the amount of non-cash items increasing
such Consolidated Net Income for such
period. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
the Net Income of any Unrestricted
Subsidiary shall be excluded, whether or
not distributed to the Company or one of
its Restricted Subsidiaries.
<PAGE>
ANNEX II
[LOGO] Prudential
Prudential Securities Incorporated
One New York Plaza, New York, NY 10292
(212) 778-1000
January 19, 1999
The Special Committee of the Board of Directors
Sbarro, Inc.
401 Broadhollow Road
Melville, NY 11747
Members of the Special Committee of the Board of Directors:
We understand that Sbarro, Inc., a New York corporation ("Sbarro" or the
"Company"), Sbarro Merger LLC, a New York limited liability company ("Mergeco"),
and Mario Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro (1994) Family Limited
Partnership, Anthony Sbarro, and Mario Sbarro and Franklin Montgomery, not
individually but as trustees under that certain Trust Agreement dated April 28,
1984 for the benefit of Carmela Sbarro and her descendants (collectively the
"Continuing Stockholders") propose to enter into an Agreement and Plan of Merger
(the "Agreement"), pursuant to which Mergeco will merge with and into the
Company (the "Merger"). In the Merger, each outstanding share of Sbarro common
stock, par value $.01 per share (the "Company Common Stock"), other than shares
held by Mergeco or the Continuing Stockholders or in the Company's treasury,
will be converted into the right to receive $28.85 in cash (the "Merger
Consideration").
You have requested our opinion as to the fairness from a financial point of view
of the Merger Consideration to be received by the Public Stockholders (defined
as all holders of Company Common Stock other than the Continuing Stockholders).
In conducting our analysis and arriving at the opinion expressed herein, we have
reviewed such materials and considered such financial and other factors as we
deemed relevant under the circumstances, including:
(i) a draft, dated January 19, 1999, of the Agreement, including the
exhibits thereto;
(ii) a draft, dated January 19, 1999, of the Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc.
"highly confident" letter (the "Highly Confident Letter");
<PAGE>
[LOGO] Prudential Prudential Securities Incorporated
(iii) certain publicly available historical, financial and operating
data for the Company including, but not limited to, (a) the Annual
Report to shareholders and Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal
year ended December 28, 1997, (b) the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for
the fiscal quarter ended October 4, 1998, (c) Reports on Forms 8-K,
dated June 18, 1998, September 22, 1998 and December 2, 1998, and (d)
the Proxy Statement relating to the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held
on August 19, 1998;
(iv) historical stock market prices and trading volumes for the Company
Common Stock;
(v) certain information relating to the Company, including projected
balance sheet, income statement and cash flow data for the 1998 through
2003 fiscal years, prepared by the management of the Company;
(vi) the Company's Confidential Memorandum dated August 1998 and the
preliminary written indications of interest received from prospective
buyers;
(vii) publicly available financial, operating and stock market data
concerning certain companies engaged in businesses that we deemed
comparable to Sbarro or otherwise relevant to our inquiry;
(viii) the financial terms of certain recent transactions, including
"going private" transactions, that we deemed relevant to our inquiry;
and
(ix) such other financial studies, analyses and investigations that we
deemed relevant to our inquiry.
We have assumed, with your consent, that the draft of the Agreement we reviewed
will conform in all material respects to the Agreement when in final form.
We have met with the senior management of the Company to discuss (i) the past
and current operating and financial condition of the Company, (ii) the prospects
for the Company, (iii) their estimates of the Company's future financial
performance and (iv) such other matters we deemed relevant.
In connection with our review and analysis and in arriving at our opinion, we
have relied upon the accuracy and completeness of the financial and other
information provided to us by the Company and have not undertaken any
independent verification of such information or any independent valuation or
appraisal of any of the assets or liabilities of the Company.
With respect to certain financial forecasts provided to us by the Company, we
have assumed that such information (and the assumptions and bases therefor)
represents the Company's best currently available estimate as to the future
financial performance of the Company. Further, our
2
<PAGE>
[LOGO] Prudential Prudential Securities Incorporated
opinion is necessarily based on economic, financial and market conditions as
they exist and can only be evaluated as of the date hereof.
Our opinion does not address nor should it be construed to address the relative
merits of the Merger or alternative business strategies that may be available to
the Company.
As you know, we have been retained by the Company to render this opinion and
will receive a fee for such service, a portion of which fee is contingent upon
the consummation of the Merger. In the ordinary course of business we may
actively trade the shares of Company Common Stock for our own account and for
the accounts of customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or short
position in such securities.
This letter and the opinion expressed herein are for the use of the Special
Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company. This opinion does not
constitute a recommendation to the stockholders of the Company as to how such
stockholders should vote in connection with the Merger or as to any other action
such stockholders should take regarding the Merger. This opinion may not be
reproduced, summarized, excerpted from or otherwise publicly referred to or
disclosed in any manner without our prior written consent; except that the
Company may include this opinion in its entirety in any proxy statement relating
to the Merger sent to the Company's stockholders and filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion that, as of the
date hereof, the Merger Consideration to be received by the Public Stockholders
in the Merger is fair from a financial point of view.
Very truly yours,
PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES INCORPORATED
3
<PAGE>
PRELIMINARY COPY SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED APRIL 20, 1999
PROXY
SBARRO, INC.
(Solicited on behalf of the Board of Directors)
The undersigned holder of Common Stock of SBARRO, INC., revoking all
proxies heretofore given, hereby constitutes and appoints Mario Sbarro and
Anthony Sbarro, and each of them, proxies, with full power of substitution, for
the undersigned and in the name, place and stead of the undersigned, to vote all
of the undersigned's shares of said stock, according to the number of votes and
with all the powers the undersigned would possess if personally present, at the
Special Meeting of Shareholders of SBARRO, INC., to be held at
_________________________, _______________, New York on _________, ______ __,
1999 at 10:00 a.m., local time, and at any adjournments or postponements
thereof.
The undersigned hereby acknowledges receipt of the Notice of Meeting
and Proxy Statement relating to the meeting and hereby revokes any proxy or
proxies heretofore given.
Each properly executed Proxy will be voted in accordance with the
specifications made on the reverse side of this Proxy and in the discretion of
the proxies on such other matters that may properly come before the meeting or
any adjournments or postponements thereof. Where no choice is specified, this
Proxy will be voted FOR adoption of the Agreement and Plan of Merger.
PLEASE MARK, DATE AND SIGN THIS PROXY ON REVERSE SIDE
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
PLEASE MARK |X|
The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR adoption of the Agreement and Plan YOUR CHOICE
of Merger. LIKE THIS
IN BLACK OR
BLUE INK
Adoption of the Agreement and Plan of |_| FOR |_| AGAINST |_| ABSTAIN
Merger, dated as of January 19, 1999,
among the Company, Sbarro Merger
LLC, Mario Sbarro, Joseph Sbarro,
Joseph Sbarro (1994) Family Limited
Partnership, Anthony Sbarro, and
Mario Sbarro and Franklin
Montgomery, not individually, but as
trustees under that certain Trust
Agreement, dated April 28, 1984 for
the benefit of Carmela Sbarro and her
descendants.
</TABLE>
Signatures(s)_____________________________________ Dated____________, 1999
(Signatures should conform to names as registered. For jointly owned
shares, each owner should sign. When signing as attorney, executor,
administrator, trustee, guardian or officer of a corporation, please give
full title.)
