How does Checkers account for expenses incurred for coupons and discounts?
Checkers Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Advertising expense does not include expenses incurred for coupons and discounts, which are recorded as reductions to restaurant sales at the time of sale.
Source: Item 21 — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (FDD page 91)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Checkers' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, expenses for coupons and discounts are not included in advertising expenses. Instead, Checkers records these expenses as reductions to restaurant sales at the time of the sale. This accounting practice directly affects how Checkers reports its revenue and expenses.
For a prospective franchisee, this means that when Checkers provides financial statements, the restaurant sales figures presented are already net of any discounts or coupons used by customers. This is a common practice in the restaurant industry, as it provides a clearer picture of the actual revenue received from customers after accounting for promotional offers.
This accounting method ensures that the financial statements accurately reflect the net revenue Checkers receives. Franchisees should be aware of this when analyzing sales data and comparing performance against other restaurants or industry benchmarks. Understanding this accounting practice is crucial for accurately assessing the financial health and performance of a Checkers franchise.