What was the total depreciation and amortization of property, equipment, and leasehold improvements for Auntie Annes for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023?

According to Auntie Annes's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the total depreciation and amortization of property, equipment, and leasehold improvements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, was $14,212. In comparison, for the fiscal year ended December 25, 2022, the depreciation and amortization totaled $6,774.

Depreciation and amortization are accounting methods used to allocate the cost of tangible assets (like equipment and buildings) and intangible assets (like patents and trademarks) over their useful lives. For franchisees, this means that Auntie Annes is writing off the cost of its assets over time, reflecting the wear and tear or obsolescence of those assets. This is a non-cash expense that affects the company's net income.

The FDD also mentions that depreciation of assets held for lease totaled $189 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023. These assets held for lease are largely comprised of satellite SBRs (Small Business Restaurants) that Auntie Annes leases to certain franchisees under month-to-month operating lease agreements. This indicates that Auntie Annes engages in leasing equipment to some franchisees, which could be a potential avenue for franchisees to acquire necessary equipment without a large upfront investment.