Commitments and Contingencies

9 Months Ended

Oct. 02, 2012

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies

4. Commitments and Contingencies

Within the ordinary course of our business, we are subject to private lawsuits, government audits, administrative proceedings and other claims.  These matters typically involve claims from guests, staff members and others related to operational issues common to the foodservice industry.  A number of these claims may exist at any given time, and some of the claims may be pled as class actions.  From time to time, we are also involved in lawsuits with respect to infringements of, or challenges to, our registered trademarks.  We could be affected by adverse publicity and litigation costs resulting from such allegations, regardless of whether these allegations are valid or whether we are legally determined to be liable. At this time, we believe that the final disposition of any pending lawsuits, audits, proceedings and claims will not have a material adverse effect individually or in the aggregate on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.  It is possible, however, that our future results of operations for a particular quarter or fiscal year could be impacted by changes in circumstances relating to lawsuits, audits, proceedings or claims.