What was the reported total amount for 'Interest' for Benihana?

According to Benihana's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the company's interest expense, excluding amortization of debt issuance costs and fees, was $7.4 million for the year ending December 31, 2023, and $1.7 million for the year ending December 31, 2022. Additionally, capitalized interest was reported as $1.6 million for 2023 and $0.3 million for 2022.

These figures reflect the cost of Benihana's debt arrangements and how much of that interest was capitalized. Capitalized interest refers to interest costs that are added to the cost of an asset on the balance sheet, rather than being expensed immediately on the income statement. This typically occurs when the company is constructing or developing an asset over a period of time.

Prospective franchisees should note that these interest expenses are at the company level and not directly related to the costs a franchisee would incur. However, understanding the financial obligations of the parent company can provide insight into its financial health and stability, which indirectly affects franchisees. Franchisees may want to inquire about how Benihana's debt and interest expenses could impact support, resources, and overall franchise system stability.